A hinge mate limits the movement between two components to one
rotational degree of freedom. It has the same effect as adding a concentric mate plus a
coincident mate. You can limit the angular movement between the two components.
Advantages of hinge mates:
- When modeling, you need to apply only one mate instead of two
mates.
- If you run an analysis (such as with SOLIDWORKS Simulation or
SOLIDWORKS Motion), the reaction forces and results are associated with the
hinge mate, not a concentric or coincident mate. This association reduces
the negative effects of redundant mates on the analysis.
To add a hinge mate: