Final answer:
The Linear Pattern or Rectangular Pattern tool in CAD programs is used to create multiple copies of an object distributed along a linear path. You select the object, use the Linear Pattern command, define direction, set instances and spacing, and apply the command.
Step-by-step explanation:
The command used to replicate or pattern an object linearly about a sketch in many computer-aided design (CAD) programs is called Linear Pattern or Rectangular Pattern tool. This tool allows the user to create multiple copies of an object and uniformly distribute them along one or two linear paths.
To use the Linear Pattern tool, you will generally follow these steps:
- Select the feature or object you wish to pattern.
- Choose the Linear Pattern or Rectangular Pattern command from the toolbar or menu.
- Define the direction of the pattern by selecting a linear edge, axis, or by specifying the angle manually.
- Set the number of instances (copies) and the spacing between them.
- Confirm the pattern and apply the command.
Examples of software that might use such functionality include SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, and AutoCAD.