Can sub-assemblies be placed within assemblies?

Sub-assemblies can indeed be placed within assemblies in Solid Edge. This concept is fundamental to the assembly modeling process in CAD software, where complex products are often constructed by combining several smaller components or sub-assemblies.

Using sub-assemblies helps manage complex designs by grouping related parts together. For example, if you are designing an automobile, you might have a sub-assembly for the engine that contains various engine parts (like pistons, valves, etc.). This sub-assembly can then be inserted into the main assembly of the vehicle along with other sub-assemblies like the transmission or chassis.

Furthermore, the use of sub-assemblies enhances the organization of the design, makes it easier to edit components, and can improve performance during modeling since it reduces the number of individual parts that need to be manipulated at once. This hierarchical setup is a standard practice in engineering design processes, allowing for better workflow management and part reusability.

The other options suggest limitations that do not reflect the capabilities of Solid Edge, as there are no restrictions on the usability of sub-assemblies within larger assemblies in general practice.