What is the purpose of using reference geometry in a design?

The purpose of using reference geometry in a design primarily revolves around defining relationships between parts. Reference geometry serves as a non-physical framework within the modeling environment, allowing designers to establish critical geometrical connections and constraints among various features and components. By utilizing reference planes, axes, points, and sketches, designers can ensure that parts are correctly aligned and positioned relative to one another, thus enhancing the overall assembly's accuracy and functionality. This is particularly crucial in parametric modeling, where the relationships defined by reference geometry can automatically update dependent features, maintaining design intent and coherence.

In contrast, while some options touch on aspects of design, they do not capture the essential role that reference geometry plays in establishing relational integrity between parts. Creating material properties pertains more to the characteristics assigned to materials rather than geometric arrangements. Simplifying complex sketches might require the use of reference geometry, but that is not its primary purpose. Modifying existing components, while it may involve reference geometry in some contexts, does not specifically define its main function, which is centered on relationships and constraints.