Replace All Nested

Overview

Replace All Nested is a powerful command for updating assemblies by replacing every occurrence of a selected component—including those inside nested sub-assemblies—with a new component. This tool streamlines the process of global component replacement, ensuring consistency throughout your entire assembly structure. Unlike Inventor’s standard “Component Replace All” command, Replace All Nested automatically finds and replaces components at all levels, and lets you select the replacement from components already present in your assembly, rather than searching for a file on disk.

This command is ideal for situations where a part or sub-assembly needs to be updated everywhere it appears, including deeply nested locations, without manual searching or editing. It helps maintain design integrity and saves significant time in large or complex assemblies.

How It Works

Prompts you to select the component you want to replace.
Prompts you to select the new component to use as the replacement.
Searches the active assembly and all nested sub-assemblies for every occurrence of the original component.
Replaces each occurrence with the new component, maintaining assembly structure and constraints.
Updates the assembly so all references now point to the new component.

Usage Instructions

Open the assembly in which you want to replace a component.
Activate the Replace All Nested command from the toolbar or menu.
Select the component to be replaced.
Select the new component to use as the replacement.
The command will automatically find and replace all occurrences, including those in nested sub-assemblies.
Review your assembly to confirm that all instances have been updated.

Trouble Shooting

If some occurrences are not replaced, check for unique constraints or custom rules that may prevent replacement.
Ensure the replacement component is compatible with the original in terms of constraints and connections.
Review nested sub-assemblies for locked or read-only status that may block changes.

Examples

Update a fastener everywhere: Replace every instance of a bolt with a new size or type, including those inside nested hardware sub-assemblies.
Swap a vendor part: Replace a purchased part with an updated version throughout the assembly, ensuring all references are updated.