CATIA Training
Foils
Sketcher
Version 5 Release 10
December 2002
EDU-CAT-E-SKE-FF-V5R10
Copyright DASSAULT SYSTEMES 2002
1
Course Presentation
Objectives of the course
In this course you will learn how to sketch, constrain, and edit 2D profiles.
These profiles are then used to generate solids and surfaces
Targeted audience
New users
1 day
Prerequisites
CATIA Basics
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Table of Contents (1/2)
1. Course Presentation
2. Introduction to the CATIA Sketcher
3. Sketching Simple Profiles
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
The CATIA Sketcher Work Modes
Profiles
Points
Lines
Splines
Circles and Arcs
Conics
Axis
p. 2
p. 5
p. 16
p. 17
p. 25
p. 28
p. 32
p. 36
p. 41
p. 47
p. 53
4. Sketching Pre-Defined Profiles
p. 57
1. Sketching Pre-Defined Profiles
p. 58
5. Editing Profiles
1. Modifying Profile Geometry
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p. 64
p. 65
3
Table of Contents (2/2)
6. Operations on Profiles
1.
2.
3.
4.
Re-Limiting Operations
Transformation Operations
Offset
Operations on 3D Geometry
7. Setting Constraints
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Introduction to Constraints
Quick Constraints
Modification of Constraints
Auto-Constraint
Animating Constraints
Sorting Sketches by their Solving Status
Performing a Quick Geometry Diagnosis
Relations Between Dimensions
8. Managing Sketches
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Creating Planes
Replacing a Sketch
Changing a Sketch Support
Sketch Analysis
Change Body
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p. 75
p. 76
p. 88
p. 94
p. 100
p. 112
p. 113
p. 118
p. 122
p. 127
p. 130
p. 133
p. 138
p. 141
p. 145
p. 146
p. 151
p. 154
p. 157
p. 168
4
Introduction to the CATIA Sketcher
In this lesson you will see the V5 CATIA Sketcher user interface and basic
functions
Why Using the Sketcher ?
Sketcher Workbench
Sketcher Interface
Sketcher Terminology
Sketcher General Process
To Sum Up
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Why Using the Sketcher?
• The Sketcher is a set of tools to help users quickly generate 2D Geometry.
• The completed Sketch can then be used to generate Solids and Surfaces
• The capability to define Constraints between elements in the Sketcher allows for
quick modification of the Sketch and consequently the Solids or Surfaces that
are based on it.
• Other tools such as Animate Constraints enable the user to explore design
alternatives
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Sketcher Workbench (1/2)
Select Start > Mechanical
Design > Sketcher then select
a plane or a face on an object
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Sketcher Workbench (2/2)
You can also access the Sketcher by selecting the Sketcher icon from any Workbench
where it is possible to do a sketch.
If you want to create a Sketch by specifying its 3D position and orientation, you have to
select the Sketch Positionning icon.
A dialog box where you can define the Absolute Axis System
appears. If you create a Sketch, it will be positionned
regarding to this System.
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Sketcher Interface (1/4): Sketcher Workbench General
A New Sketch will register in the Part Tree when entering the Sketcher Workbench
Standard tools
Exit to
3D Space
Part tree
Tools & Operations
Constraints
Icons
New Sketch
Sketcher
Design tools...
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Sketcher Interface (2/4): Sketcher Tools
Exit Sketcher
Profile
Rectangles, Polygons...
Profiles
Circles, Ellipse, Arcs...
Spline
Ellipse
Line
Axis
Points...
Operations
Corner
Chamfer
Trim options...
Symmetry
Projection
Constraints dialog box
Constraint
Auto Constraint
Constraints
Animate Constraint
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Sketcher Interface (3/4): Toolbars
Sketcher
Icons
Insert menu or toolbars
Predefined Profiles
Circles
Conic
Line
Point
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Sketcher Interface (4/4): Sketcher Plane
It is possible to zoom, pan and
rotate (using the mouse).
Once on the plane on which you want to
sketch has been selected, it is displayed
parallel to the screen (if Tools+ Option +
mechanical Design + Sketcher + Position
sketch plane parallel to screen is active)
To reset a
sketch plane
orientation,
select the
Normal View
icon
If you select the Normal View icon when the sketch plane is
already displayed parallel to the screen, you will turn the sketch
plane and see its other side.
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Sketcher Terminology
• The Sketch is the holding point for a group 2D elements on a
specific plane. There can be more than one Sketch using the same
plane as support.
• The V-H Axis is the 0,0 for the Sketch.
• Sketches generally consist of a Profile, Constraints, and
Dimensions (a type of Constraint).
Profile
Constraints
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Dimensions
13
General Process
1
2
Access the
Sketcher
workbench
Select a plane,
a solid face, or a planar
surface to sketch on
3
4
5
Create
geometric
elements
An in-work sketch
is added to the
Specification tree
Constrain the
geometric
elements
Use the sketch
to create a solid
or surface
6
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To Sum Up
You have seen:
A “QuickStart” Sketcher demonstration
Why Sketch?
How to access the workbench
Its user interface and tools
The terminology that will be used
The general design process
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Sketching Simple Profiles
In this lesson you will learn how to create most of the Sketcher geometric
elements. You will also learn how to use the various work modes available for
the Sketcher Workbench
The CATIA Sketcher Work Modes
Profiles
Points
Lines
Splines
Circles and Arcs
Conics
Axis
To Sum Up
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The CATIA Sketcher Work Modes
You will learn the Sketcher work modes by using:
Grid/Snap
Standard/Construction Geometry
Value Fields
Automatic Constraints
Automatic Dimensions
Section View
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Why Sketcher Work Modes?
The Sketcher work modes aid you
while you sketch the geometry.
They facilitate input of values,
automate Geometrical/Dimensional
Constraints creation, help visualize
3D geometry etc ...
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Using Grid/Snap
When creating any lines ( profile, segment, circle,
arc, curve, …), you can activate or deactivate the
snap to point icon at any time.
• When the snap to point icon is active, the cursor
only snaps on the points of the grid (graphical
creation). If you enter coordinates when the snap to
point icon is active, the system does not take into
account the grid and place the point in accordance
with the coordinates you have entered.
• To modify the grid parameters, select
Tools + Options… from the top of the
screen, select Mechanical Design from 3
the dialog box then, select the Sketcher
tab. 1
5
4
2
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Standard / Construction Geometry
Two types of element: Standard or Construction
Standard elements represent the most commonly
created elements
Construction elements aim at helping you in
sketching the required profile. They facilitate your
design
Creating standard or construction elements is based
upon the same methodology.
Clicking the icon switches from one mode to the other
Standard + Construction
Elements
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Value Fields
When sketching, you can enter exact
coordinates/lengths/angles in the Tools bar.
1
For the profile first point, you can define the Horizontal and Vertical
coordinates. By pressing the tab key you access the Horizontal coordinate
field, so you can enter it. By pressing the tab key once more, you access to
the Vertical coordinate field, so you can enter it
For example, in using the
Profile tool ...
2
For the profile second point, you can also use the tab key to enter a
coordinate, but you can also define the second point of the profile by entering
the length of the segment between the first and the second point and/or by
entering the angle between the Horizontal axis and the segment to be created.
3
When profiling an arc, the tools bar allows you to enter the H and
V coordinates of the last point of the arc but you can also enter a
radius. You can enter these coordinates by using the tab key.
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If you enter only one of the
coordinates (H, V, L, A or R)
you fix it, this means that the
other parameters can move
graphically but not the fixed
one.
21
Automatic Dimensions
1
In sketcher,
select the
Dimensional
Constraints
Icon
When activated:
- corner dimensions
- chamfer dimensions
- dimensions entered into
the value fields
are automatically created
during geometry
construction.
Multi-select
two edges of
existing
rectangle
2
3
4
With Dimensional
Constraints on
Select the
Corner icon
Move the
corner
preview to
the desired
location and
click
With Dimensional
Constraints off
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Automatic Constraints
1
In Tools/Options/Mechanical
Design/Sketcher/Constraint/SmartPick specify
which Constraints you want detected
In sketcher,
select the
Geometrical
Constraints Icon
2
Notice that Tangency Constraints
are created even if Geometrical
Constraints is Off
With
Geometrical
Constraints
Off
3
With
Geometrical
Constraints
On
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Start to sketch the geometry. Variations of valid
Constraints will be proposed depending on
where the Mouse is with respect to the existing
geometry. When you see the Constraint you
require, click on the Mouse to store the
Constraint (and the new geometry).
23
Section Views
In order to see a Section View of the part
while sketching, click on the Cutting Plane
icon in the Cut By Plane toolbar.
This is purely a visualization tool, no
intersection curves are created from the
intersection of the Solid with the Cutting
Plane.
If you need to constrain to
(or Dimension off from) the intersected
outline of the Solid, use the Intersect 3D
Elements tool
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Profiles
You will learn how to create a Profile element
Profile in the Sketcher
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Profile seen in 3D
25
What are Profiles ?
• A profile is a series of adjacent planar geometric elements such as points, lines, and curves
• Profiles are used to extrude Sketch-Based features
Closed or open ?
A profile can be:
• "Closed" (the last element connects up
with the first element in the series)
• or "Open" (the first and last elements in
the series are not in contact).
• If a profile is "Closed", it can have other
profiles contained inside its boundaries
Open profile
Inner profiles
• A profile, within a profile, is
shown here to illustrate how
"Inner Domains" work.
Notice the reversals of the
Boolean operations between
addition and subtraction as
we progress from the
outside inwards
Inner profiles
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Creating Profiles
3
Horizontal
constraint
Select the
tangent arc
icon, select
end point
Tangency
constraint
1
In the Sketcher,
Select Profile icon
2
6
Select the line icon
(default) and click on two
points to create line
Drag horizontally and click to create line.
Rather than using the Tangent arc icon to
create the final arc, click, drag and release at
the beginning of the arc and CATIA goes into
the tangent arc mode automatically.
4
Select the Three Point
Arc icon and click on
two points to create arc
5
Select the line icon and
drag vertically to create
line and click
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Points
You will learn the various methods to create points
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Two Ways to Create Points in the Sketcher
Points can be created in the Sketcher in two ways:
- By the user
- By the system
When the user creates a line, the line’s end points are
automatically created by the system. When the user creates
a circle, the center point is created.
The coordinates of these automatically created points can
later be modified by double-clicking and entering new values.
Alternatively, the user can first create the points directly. He
can then create a line or any other geometry by selecting
these points.
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Points by Identification
1
2
In the Sketcher,
select the Point by
clicking on the
Coordinates icon
Click to define
the location
where you want
the point
For ease of placing the points,
select the Snap to Point icon so the
cursor will snap to the grid while
trying to locate the point
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Points by Coordinates
1
In the Sketcher, select
the Point by clicking
on the Coordinates
icon
2
Fill in the desired
Cartesian or
Polar
coordinates
If the Dimensional Constraints
mode is on, Polar dimensions will
automatically be created in the
case of Polar input. (Cartesian
dimensions created in the case of
Cartesian input)
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Lines
You will learn the various methods to create lines
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What is a Line in CATIA V5?
In CATIA V5, a line segment is described in the
Specification Tree by three nodes - two point
nodes (Point.1 and Point.2) and one line node
(Line.1).
The line is supported by its parents - the points.
When the position of a point is modified (either by
double-clicking and entering new coordinates; or
by dragging), the position of the line will change
accordingly.
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Lines Between Two Points
1
2
In the Sketcher, select
the Line icon
Click on
starting point
of the line...
…then click on
the end point
3
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OR… you can type the line
specifications in the value fields
of the Tools toolbar
34
Bi-Tangent Lines
1
2
Select the two elements
you want the line to be
tangent to ...
In the Sketcher, select the
Bi-Tangent Line icon
The Bi-Tangent
line is created
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Splines
You will learn how to create a Spline in the Sketcher
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Which Should I Use - Sketcher Spline or 3D Spline?
Since the 3D Spline Tool - available within the Wireframe&Surfaces (WFS) or Generative Shape
Design (GSD) workbenches - can also be used in a 2D manner (with Geometry on Support being a
plane), when should you use the Sketcher Spline and when is the 3D Spline more appropriate?
• In general, use the Sketcher Spline to
create Sketches for generating solid SketchBased Features. (Although Pads and
Pockets can be generated from 3D Splines)
• Use the 3D Spline when you need more
control over the Spline - i.e. Tangent
Tension, Curvature Direction, Curvature
Radius.
• Surfaces can be generated from Splines
created by either method.
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Creating a Spline
1
3
2
In sketcher,
select the
Spline Icon
…then click the
second point of
the spline
Click first
point to start
the spline
5
Double-click to specify
the spline End Point.
4
4
Double-Click on a Spline Control Point
to specify exact coordinates or to create
a Tangency vector at that point. You
can later apply Constraints to this
vector (i.e. make it parallel to a line).
…then click for the third
point of the spline
Double-click on a Spline Control Point to specify exact coordinates
or to define a Curvature after a tangency vector
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Adding a Point while editing Spline
Double Click on it. The Spline
1
3
Create a Spline.
2 Definition dialog box appears.
To create a point on the
Sketch, select the point after
or before which you want to
add a point.
4 Choose Add Point After or Add Point Before and Click
on the Sketch at the location where you want to add
the new point.
You
obtain :
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Connecting Curves
1 Select the
Connect icon
2
Select the
first curve
3
Select the
second curve
You get:
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Circles and Arcs
You will learn the various methods to create circles and arcs.
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What are Circles and Arcs in CATIA ?
• In CATIA V5, a Circle consists of two nodes:
Point.1
Circle.1
specifying the coordinates of the Circle Center
specifying the Radius of the Circle
• The Arc will have two additional nodes:
Point.2
Point.3
specifying the coordinates of one limit
specifying the coordinates of the second limit
Note: When a Circle is Trimmed leaving only a portion of
the complete circle. Two additional points are added to
the Specifications Tree. In fact, the representation
becomes the same as that of an Arc.
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Basic Circles
1
2
Click once to define the center point of
the circle, then drag the cursor
In the sketcher, select the
Circle icon
3
…and click
again to define
the circle size
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Circles Through Three Points
1
In the Sketcher,
select the Three
Point Circle icon
Click three
times to
define 3
points. The
circle will
pass through
these points
2
3
4
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Circles Using Coordinates
1
In sketcher, select
Circle using the
Coordinates icon
3
2
Enter the absolute
coordinates of the
circle
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Enter the size of
the radius
45
Three Points Arcs
1
2
Click to
define the
first point to
start the
arc...
3
In the Sketcher,
select Three Point
Arc icon
…then click to define the
second point of the arc
4
Then click to define the
end point of the arc
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Conics
You will learn the various methods to create conics
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Types of Conic that Can Be Created
Ellipse
Parabola
Hyperbola
Conic
Required Inputs
Ellipse
Center, Major Axis Limit, Point on Curve
Parabola
Focus, Apex, Start Point, End Point
Hyperbola
Focus, Center, Apex, Start Point, End Point
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Creating an Ellipse (1/2)
Click to indicate center
point of ellipse
2
1
In the Sketcher, select
the Ellipse Icon
3
…then click the
second point for
the major axis
endpoint
The Tools Toolbar then displays
values for defining the ellipse
major axis endpoint
Center point
coordinates can
also be input in
the Tools Toolbar
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Creating an Ellipse (2/2)
4 Click to indicate for
minor axis endpoint
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Creating a Parabola
2 Click to indicate the
Focus Point of the
Parabola
3
1
…then click the
second point for
the Apex
In the Sketcher,
select the
Parabola Icon
4
Next indicate the two endpoints
As always, the Tools
Toolbar is contextual and
allows the user to input
specific point coordinates
during the creation steps
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Creating a Hyperbola
2
Click to indicate the
Focus Point of the
Hyperbola
4 … click the third
point for the Apex
1
In the Sketcher,
select the
Hyperbola Icon
3 …then click the
5
Next indicate the two endpoints
second point for
the Center
As always, the Tools
Toolbar is contextual and
allows the user to input
specific point coordinates
during the creation steps
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Axis
You will learn the method to create an Axis in Sketcher
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What is the Axis Used for?
An Axis element must be included
in a Sketch from which a Shaft or
Groove solid feature is created.
The Profile to be swept around
this axis must either be Closed or
have its endpoints Coincident to
the axis.
An Axis drawn into a Sketch can
also be used (but not required) to
generate a Surface of Revolution.
A separate Line or Solid Edge can
also serve to specify the axis of
revolution. Also, the Profile need
not be Closed nor Coincident to
the axis in this case.
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Creating an Axis
1
2
In the Sketcher,
select Axis icon
Click the first
location for
starting point
of the axis...
3
…then click the end
location
You will need axes whenever using a
symmetry command or creating a grove
or shaft.
Using the shaft
command on our profile
sketch, CATIA produces
a shaft using the axis we
defined
Axes cannot be converted into construction
elements
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To Sum Up ...
You have seen how to set the Sketcher work modes:
Grid/Snap
Construction/Standard Elements
Automatic Constraints and Dimensions
etc …
You are now familiar with tools for Sketching simple profiles:
Profile
Points
Lines
Splines
Circles and Arcs
Conics
Axis
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Sketching Pre-Defined Profiles
In this lesson you will learn how to Sketch the Pre-Defined Profiles
Sketching Pre-Defined Profiles
To Sum Up
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Sketching Pre-Defined Profiles
You will learn the different ways to create pre-defined profiles
Rectangle
Oriented Rectangle
Parallelogram
Elongated Hole
Cylindrical Elongated Hole
Keyhole Profile
Hexagon
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What are Pre-Defined Profiles ?
Pre-Defined Profiles are tools to
facilitate the creation of standard
complex shapes with the minimal
number of inputs that can fully describe
all aspects of that shape.
It increases productivity by reducing
Mouse/Keyboard interactions
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Rectangle
1
2
Click to
define the
starting
corner of the
rectangle...
…then click to
define the diagonal
corner
In the Sketcher, select
the Rectangle icon
3
OR… you can type the rectangle
specifications in the value fields
of the Tools toolbar
In creating all the Pre-Defined Profiles, it is
always useful to read the prompts at the bottom
left corner of the screen
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Parallelogram
3
1
2
Click to define the
starting corner of the
Parallelogram ...
…then click to
define the second
corner
In the Sketcher, select
the Parallelogram icon
4
… finally, click to
determine the width
and internal angles of
the Parallelogram
OR… you can type the Parallelogram
specifications in the value fields of the
Tools pallet
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Elongated Hole
3
2
1
… indicate the
second center ...
Indicate the first
center of the
hole ...
4
… finally, click to
determine the radius of
the Elongated Hole
In the Sketcher, select
the Elongated Hole icon
OR… you can type the hole
specifications in the value fields
of the Tools pallet
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To Sum Up ...
You have learned to create Pre-Defined Profiles such as:
Rectangle
Oriented Rectangle
Parallelogram
Elongated Hole
Cylindrical Elongated Hole
Keyhole Profile
Hexagon
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Editing Profiles
In this lesson will learn tools to help you edit Sketcher elements
Modifying Profile Geometry
To Sum Up
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Modifying Profile Geometry
You will learn how modify 2D sketch elements to propagate changes to 3D parts
Before
After Change
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Why Modify Profile Geometry?
• Sketch-based features rely on profiles for their shape
• Especially if defined with the proper constraints that represent the
design intent of the part, the profile geometry can easily be changed for
downstream design changes
Modified cube
Corner removed from sketch
Design change
• Changing the sketch that defines a feature propagates that
change to all subsequent operations involving the feature
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Modifying Profile Element Coordinates
1
Double click the line to edit its
coordinates
2
Edit the existing coordinates of the
line to new parameters (V: 50mm)
H: -40
V: 50
This method works on most construction
entities, opening the appropriate dialog for
the entity selected
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Editing Profile Shape and Size
1
Click and drag the
line downward to
its new location
2
The profile changes according
to where you move the element
and the constraints you have
applied
You have modified the shape of
the profile without using any
intermediary menu options
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Deleting Sketcher Elements
1
Select the element to delete
2
Select Edit->Delete and the element
is suppressed. Now multi-select
additional elements to delete
3
Use the contextual menu
(select Mouse Button 3
while cursor is on one of
the selected elements) to
delete
Select the Undo icon or option to restore deleted elements.
The Undo icon or option will remember all changes up to the
last time the part was saved
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Editing a Spline (1/3)
You can edit a spline modifying, adding or
removing the spline control points
1
Double click on the spline to be edited
2
Select the control point to be edited
You will see:
3
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Editing a Spline (2/3)
4
Select the control point to be edited
5
Select the Add Point After option
6
Click a point
You will see:
Using the same method, you can
add a point before the current
point or to replace the current
point by another one
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Editing a Spline (3/3)
You can also close the spine
You can also define a tangency
or/and a curvature on the current
point
Do not forget to select OK in the dialog
box to validate the modifications
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Auto Search
1
Select one
element in the
Profile
Commands such as Auto Search that
are found in the Menu bar can be added
as an Icon into a Toolbar if desired
2
Drag down to Auto Search from
the Edit Menu bar. All elements in
the Profile are selected.
Auto Search is a multi-selection tool.
Once selected, you can use the
Contextual menu to delete or change the
properties of all the elements in one go.
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To Sum Up ...
You have seen various ways you can edit Profiles:
Double-Clicking to edit Element Coordinates
Modifying Shape and Size by Dragging
Deleting Elements
and
Using Auto-Search as a handy tool for Multi-Selecting a Profile
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Operations on Profiles
In this lesson you will learn how to reuse existing geometry
Re-Limiting Operations
Transformation Operations
Offset
Operations on 3D Geometry
To Sum Up
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Re-Limiting Operations
You will learn how to re-limit geometry using Corner, Chamfer, Trim, and Break Operations
Before Relimitations
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After Relimitations
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Why Re-Limiting Geometry?
In general, there is much less need to re-limit geometry in V5.
Each one of the closed profiles below was completely sketched with a single activation of the
Profile tool. (Refer back to the Profile section for help in sketching these profiles)
In fact, using the Profile tool whenever possible is the preferred practice since it will cut down
on the number of user interactions.
For a large number of cases, however, re-limitation of sketched geometry using Trim or Break
is still necessary to achieve Design Intent.
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Corners
2 Select the Mode - Trim All, Trim First
1
Select the
Corner Icon
Element, or No Trim
3
Select the two lines
4
Move the mouse around so
that the corner is visualized
in the correct quadrant
5
Type in the radius required
and hit Enter
If Dimensional Constraints is
activated , the radius dimension
will be created on the Sketch.
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Chamfers (1/3)
The chamfer command allows you to create a chamfer between two lines
trimming either both, the first or none of the elements
1
Select the Chamfer icon
4
2
Select the first line on which the
chamfer will be created
Select the desired chamfer
trim option
5
3
Select the second line on which
the chamfer will be created
Select the desired chamfer
definition option
You get:
6
Using the TAB key, enter the
chamfer parameters
6
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Press the Enter key to validate the
chamfer creation
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Chamfers (2/3)
Chamfer trim options
a
a
b
Trim all elements
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a
b
Trim first element
b
No trim
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Chamfers (3/3)
Chamfer definition options
Length/Angle option:
Length1/Length2 option
Length1/Angle option:
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Trimming Lines (1/5)
Use the trim icon to keep/erase segments before or after an intersection
point between two curves or lines
1
Select the Trim icon
2
Select the lines you want
to trim on the sides you
want kept.
According to the selected trim option
(Trim All or Trim First Element), you
will get :
Trim all elements
Trim the first element
Move the mouse around before selecting the second line - notice that the
system shows you the various solutions possible depending on where you
select this line.
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Trimming Lines (2/5) - Quick Trim
Using Quick Trim when trimming lines and curves, allows
you quickly remove unwanted segments
2
Select the Quick trim option
3
Select the line (a) to be trimmed
You get :
Deletes
1
Select the Quick Trim icon
You get :
Keeps
You get :
Breaks
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Trimming Lines (3/5) - Close
Using Close allows you to close an
arc into a full circle.
1
Select the Close icon
2
Select the arc to be closed
You will get :
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Trimming lines (4/5) - Close
You can close an opened ellipse using the Close icon
1
Select the Close icon
from the Operation
toolbar
2
Select the part of the ellipse you want to
close
3
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You get:
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Trimming lines (5/5) - Close
You can also close an opened ellipse using the
contextual menu of the ellipse
1
Select the Close command from the
ellipse contextual menu (MB3)
2
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You get:
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Breaking
Use Break to split a line or curve into two parts.
1
Select the Break icon
2
Select the line to be broken (a) then
select the breaking line (b)
You will get two lines (L1
and L2) :
(a)
(b)
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Transformation Operations
You will learn how to perform transformations such as Rotation, Translation, Scaling and
Symmetry on Sketcher Geometry
7 X 45 Degrees Rotation in
Duplicate Mode
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Why Transform Geometry?
Using Transformations helps the user avoid repetitive work by
enabling the user to reuse existing geometry to help define
new geometrically-related Sketcher elements.
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Symmetry
2
Select the Symmetry icon
1
Select (or Multi-Select) the
element(s) to symmetrize
Remember that there are a variety of
Multi-Selection Tools available
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3
Select a line or axis
to specify the axis of
symmetry
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Translation
1
Select (or Multi-Select) the
element(s) to translate
2
Select the Translation Icon
3
Select a first point on the Grid to
define the origin of the translation
4
In general, once a value is entered, it is temporarily fixed.
The remaining values continue to float. In the example
below, if the length of translation is entered, the user is
still capable of moving the mouse around to change the
direction of the translation.
Number of Copies
Options:
A) Select a second point of the Grid to
define the distance and direction for
the translation
B) Type in the coordinates of the
second point into the Tools Toolbar
C) Make the Translation Definition
window active and type in the Length
of translation. Indicate the preferred
direction. (Press the TAB key to go
between fields)
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Rotation
1
Select (or Multi-Select) the
element(s) to rotate
2
Select the Rotation Icon
3
Select the Center Point for the
Rotation
4
Options:
When the Snap Mode is active (as in the Rotation
Definition window), the angle values that are proposed as
the user moves the mouse around will take on Integer
increments
A) Select two points on the Grid with
respect to the center to define the
angle
B) Type in the coordinates of the two
points into the Tools Toolbar
C) Make the Rotation Definition window
active and type in the Angle of Rotation
(Press the TAB key to go between
fields)
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Scaling
When the Duplicate Mode is not active, the selected
geometry is transformed (no new elements are created)
1
Select (or Multi-Select) the
element(s) to scale
2
Select the Scaling Icon
3
Options:
A) Select the Center Point and a
second point on the Grid with respect
to the center to define the magnitude of
the Scaling
B) Type in the coordinates of these two
points into the Tools Toolbar
C) Select a center point. Make the Scale
Definition window active and type in
the Scaling Factor (Press the TAB key
to go between fields)
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Offset
You will learn how the Offset tool is used
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What is the Offset Operation?
Offset is a local operation which allows you to
duplicate one or several elements of a profile. These
elements will be duplicated keeping the parallelism
between the selected elements and the duplicated ones
The offset can be positive
or negative to determine
on which side of the
profile the offset profile
will be created
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Offsetting Elements (1/2)
The Offset capability allows you to duplicate one or several elements in the
Sketcher. These elements will be duplicated keeping the parallelism
between the selected elements and the duplicated ones
1
Once in the Sketcher, select one
of the element to be offset
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2
Select the Offset icon
3
In order to select the connected
element of the profile, select the
Point Propagation icon
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Offsetting Elements (2/2)
The Offset command allows you to duplicate one or several elements in the
Sketcher. These elements will be duplicated keeping the parallelism
between the selected elements and the duplicated ones
In the Tools toolbar, enter the
Offset value: 2
4
You get:
Press the Enter key
5
6
To validate, click on the side you
want to get the offset profile
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Additional Information (1/2)
Different options to define an offset
Instead of entering an offset value,
you can define a point the offset
profile will pass through by entering
its coordinates
To offset only the selected element
To define several instances
To offset only the tangent elements
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To offset only in both directions
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Additional Information (2/2)
You can create automatically constraints when offsetting 2D geometries.
1
Create a circle.
2 Select the Offset icon
. If the Geometrical
constraints icon is active
, constraints are
automatically created when offsetting the circle. Thus,
if you move this circle, or change its geometry, the
other element will be modified or moved accordingly.
3 This option is also available when
offsetting lines and arcs.
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Operations on 3D Geometry
You will learn what tools operate on 3D Geometry from Sketch Mode and why they are
important
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What are the Tools that Operate on 3D Geometry and Why are they
Important?
Project
- projects elements that are off the current Sketch plane into the Sketch.
- Projection is associative to the parent 3D geometry
Intersect
- intersects 3D elements with the Sketch plane
- Intersection is associative to the parent 3D geometry
Isolate
- Breaks the links that Projected and Intersected elements have with their parent
3D geometry so that they may be edited independently
The Profile of the Tray is linked
to the Profile of the Support
through a Projection
Tray
Support
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Project 3D Elements
2
1
Select (or Multi-Select) the elements to
project onto the Sketch plane. (Selecting
Solid Faces or Surfaces will project the
boundary curves of these elements)
Select the Projection Icon
Here … a projected Solid Edge (a Spline
contour) is used as part of the closed
profile for the current Sketch
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Intersect 3D Element
1
Select (or Multi-Select) the
elements to intersect with the
Sketch plane.
If the shape of the surface
should change, this contour
will also change accordingly
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2
Select the Intersection Icon
Here … the curve generated by
intersecting the surface with the
Sketch plane can be used as part of the
closed profile for the current sketch
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Project 3D Silhouette Edges
The Project 3D Silhouette Edges command shows how to create silhouette edges to be
used in sketches as geometry or reference elements.
Limitations are the same as for the Projection/Intersection tool, as far as associativity is
concerned.
You can only create a silhouette edge from a canonical surface whose axis is parallel to
the Sketch plane.
1
Select the Project 3D
Silhouette Edges icon
2 Select the element to be
projected
You get:
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Isolate
The Isolate command breaks the links between Projected
and Intersected elements and their parents 3D geometry so
that they may be edited independently
2 Activate the Isolate option from the menu
- Insert/Operation/3D Geometry
1 Select (or Multi-Select) the elements
to be isolated (Here … two of the
edges from the projected face)
The isolated lines turn white to
indicate that they are no longer
linked. You can now drag these
lines to new locations or change
them as needed
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A Projected or Intersected
curve does not need to be
isolated in order to be relimited (position is not
modified)
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Edit Mark Definition
You can see the mark characteristics and you can transform the mark
into a construction element. The mark can result from a projection or an
intersection
1
In the Sketcher, double click on
the projection
2
In the dialog box, select the
Construction element button
3
Select OK
You get:
The mark is now a
construction element
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Edit and Modify Import Properties (1/2)
You can edit Projections and Intersections
1
Double click on Projection.4
2
Select a new edge to be
projected, then select OK
New edge
When leaving the
sketcher, you will get:
Double click
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Edit and Modify Import Properties (2/2)
You can highlight the Reference Element inside the Sketch.
1
Project your Line onto the plane.
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2
If you double click on this projection, the
Reference Element will be highlighted.
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Editing Parents Children and Constraints (1/2)
You can edit an element using the Parents/Children
capability
1
Select Parent/Children from the constraint
contextual menu
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2
Select Show All Parents from
Offset.12
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Editing Parents Children and Constraints (2/2)
3
Select Edit from Pad.1
You can, now, edit the pad
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To Sum Up ...
You have learned how to perform various operations on the geometry you create in the
Sketcher (and to bring 3D geometry into the context of the Sketcher):
Re-limiting Operations (Corners, Chamfers …)
Global Transformations (Translations, Rotations …)
Offset
Operations on 3D Geometry (Project, Intersect …)
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Setting Constraints
Introduction to Constraints
Quick Constraints
Modification of Constraints
Auto Constraints
Animating Constraints
Sorting Sketches by their Solving Status
Performing a quick geometry Diagnosis
Relations Between Dimensions
To Sum Up
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Introduction to Constraints
You will learn the different ways to create constraints
What are Constraints and why do we need them?
Sketching in Context
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Why Constraints?
Without Constraints, geometry can be moved freely just by using the mouse to drag them. If
Sketcher profiles are moved, so do the solids that are supported by them. In the context of an
assembly, if one part moves, another part that is related to it may also move.
Although in CATIA V5 geometry will remain in place when put there, without Constraints any
subsequent movement of elements by the user may go unnoticed and affect Form Fit and
Function of entire assemblies.
Hence, Constraints serve to mathematically fix geometry in space.
They also can specifically relate one element to another and serve as visual feedback to the user
on what these relationships are.
After Constraints are created, they are easily modified by merely changing their values or
placement. From the ease at which Constraints may be modified and from the inherent
downstream associativity of V5, the user can quickly explore alternative designs.
Movement of 4 Unconstrained
Lines
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What are Geometric and Dimensional Constraints ?
Geometric constraints
• A Geometric constraint is a specification of how two
geometric elements are related to one another: are the
elements coincident (located at the same place), are they
concentric, tangent, perpendicular or parallel to one
another?
Geometric constraint
(here concentricity)
Dimensional constraints
• A Dimensional Constraint, one type of Geometric
Constraint, specifies the distance between two elements.
This distance can be specified as a linear
distance, an angular distance, or a radial distance
depending on the type of geometric elements involved
Dimensional constraint
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(here distance)
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What Does Sketching in Context Mean ?
• Sketching in context is using existing geometry to create new geometry
• When sketching with CATIA V5 space geometry is visualized. You can
use it to guide your sketch
From rough to precise sketch
• At first, the sketch has to only be
made to conform to the spatial intent
i.e. the left or right of a hole, on the
inside or outside of a pocket, on the top
or bottom of a pad, etc.
• Later, the exact dimensions or precise
geometric constraints (concentricity,
parallelism, coincidence...) can be
applied to the sketch (or profile) to
define it precisely
3D geometry used to
sketch and constrain profiles
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You can add constraints between the active sketch
and any part edges, vertices or other sketches.
Sketching in Context
1
Activate the Constraint icon
2
Select the edge of the part
then the segment to be
constrained
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3
Select the Distance
constraint from the
contextual menu (MB3)
4
Place the constraint and
modify it if necessary
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Quick Constraints
Dimension Constraints
Contact Constraints
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Why Quick Constraints?
Dimension constraints and Contact
constraints are frequently used. Hence, they
are made accessible with just one click.
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Other constraints are chosen from
a Constraint Definition Box
119
Setting Dimensional Constraints
3
Select location
of dimension
2
1
Select the line
to constrain
(dimension)
Select the
Constraint
icon
Select the
Constraint
icon
4
5
3
Post selecting the
circle produces a
diameter dimension...
…but then selecting the line
turns the dimension to a
distance dimension
Pre and post selection affects the way CATIA
applies dimensional constraints.
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Setting Contact Constraints
2
1
Select the two elements to be
constrained
Select the Contact
Quick Constraints
icon
Generally, the first selected element will remain in
its current position. The second one will move.
For more control, use the Fix Constraint
beforehand.
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Modification of Constraints
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What Type of Modification Can be Done on Constraints?
• All geometric and dimensional constraints may be deleted using the
Contextual Menu (third mouse button)
• Values of dimensions may be
changed by double-clicking on
them
• The type of Constraints applied on an
element can be modified by reentering
the Constraints Dialog Box and making
modifications there
• The location of dimensions
and the extension lines can
be modified by dragging with
the left mouse button
• A geometric or dimensional constraint
attached to an element (i.e. line, circle
etc …) can be reconnected to a different
element. The geometry will change to
conform to the new Constraint setup
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Modification in the Constraint Dialog Box
1 Select the two lines linked
with the Perpendicularity
constraint
2
Select the Constraint
Dialog Box icon
4
Select a new
constraint eg.
Verticality
3
Deselect the
Perpendicularity check box
5 Click OK to Exit
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Reconnecting a Constraint
1 Double Click on the
Tangency Constraint
2
Click on More
6 Click OK to save and exit
5
Select the unassociated line in
the Sketcher window
3
Select the Line
component
4 Select Reconnect
4
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3
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Additional Information ...
Dimension value:
To modify the position of a dimension's value:
• Click the icon
• Select the value text of the dimension
• Drag the value text to the new position
Dimension line:
To modify the position of the dimension line:
• Click the icon
• Select the dimension line
• Drag the line to the new position
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Auto-Constraint
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What is Auto-Constraint?
The AutoConstraint Tool:
The AutoConstraint tool automatically detects
possible constraints between selected elements
and imposes these constraints once detected
Elements to be constrained
Fixed Elements (Independent elements from which
other elements can be constrained from - normally
the Sketcher Axes)
Symmetry Lines (If selected will cause Symmetry
Constraints to be created between elements
symmetrical to these lines - the symmetry lines
themselves will not be constrained)
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Auto-Constraints
1
Multi-Select the lines in this closed profile.
2
Select the Auto-Constraint
Icon
3 Select the elements to
be constrained
4
Select the Reference
Elements Field then
select the Vertical and
Horizontal Axes
5
Click OK to create the
Constraints
Auto-Selection tools such as Auto-Search
and Trap can be helpful
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Animating Constraints
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What is Animating Constraints?
The Animate Constraint Tool:
The Animate Constraints tool allows you to see how a
constrained system reacts when you decide to make
one constraint vary.
In this way, it is a tool for understanding the
limitations imposed on the geometry by the current
set of constraints.
It can be a very useful tool for exploring design
alternatives.
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Animating Constraints
1
2
Select the
dimension you
would like to vary
Select the Animate
Constraint Icon
3 Input the initial and final
values and the number
of intermediate steps to
display
4
Press the Play button.
Cancel when done
The Animate Constraint panel works like a
tape-recorder panel. The user can play
forward and backwards, rewind, or play in
cyclic repeat mode.
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Sorting Sketches by their Solving Status
You will see how to sort Sketches by their Status (Under-Defined, Well-Defined, Over-Defined
and Inconsistent).
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What are Sketch Status?
You can define four Status for a Sketch : the Under-Defined, Well-Defined, Over-Defined
and Inconsistent Status. It is now possible to sort Sketches by their Status.
Well-Defined
Under-Defined
Inconsistent
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Over-Defined
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Sorting Sketches by their Solving Status (1/3)
1
Select “Search” in the Edit Menu.
2
A Dialog box appears and a new attribute “Solving Status” is added to
sort Sketches by their Status.
3
Select the Status you want to sort. In
our example, we choose the OverDefined Status.
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Sorting Sketches by their Solving Status (2/3)
4
After clicking on ‘Search’, the Sketch which is Over-Defined appears in the
Dialog box.
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Sorting Sketches by their Solving Status (3/3)
5
This Sketch is also highlighted in the specification tree and in the geometry area.
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Performing a Quick Geometry Diagnosis
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Performing a Quick Geometry Diagnosis (1/2)
1
3
Click the Sketch Solving Status icon.
2
The Sketch Status Definition dialog box is
displayed. It indicates the overall status of the
Sketch Geometry. In this case, the Sketch is
Over-Constrained.
On the Sketch and in the specification tree,
under-constrained and over-constrained
geometrical elements are highlighted and
iso-constrained elements are displayed in
different colour.
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Performing a Quick Geometry Diagnosis (2/2)
4 Click the Sketch Analysis icon in the dialog box or in the toolbar.
5 The Sketch Analysis dialog box appears. It contains three tabs : Geometry,
Projections/Intersections and Diagnostic. Click the Diagnostic tab. The information on this
tab displays a full diagnosis of a sketch geometry.
Solving Status provides a Quick analysis
of the Sketch analysis.
Detailed Information provides a detailed
status on each constraint and
geometrical element of the sketch
Action allows you to hide constraints or
construction geometries according to
the element you selected.
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Relations Between Dimensions
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What are Relations Between Dimensions?
Relations between Dimensions:
Dependencies can be established between
dimensions (For example, A=B+C/2)
Originally a part of the Knowledgeware set of
products, this functionality has been incorporated
into the V5 infrastructure and is generally accessible
from all Workbenches.
In CATIA V5, in addition to relationships between
dimension values, dimensions can be made
dependent on other parameters such as Forces,
Temperature, Time, or Material Properties etc ...
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Creating a Relation Between Dimensions
1
2
Select the
dimension you
would like to be
made dependent
Use the Contextual Menu (third mouse
button) and drag down to Edit Formula
3
1) Select the 40 dimension
2) Type in “+”
3) Select the 10 dimension
4) Type in “/2”
When required, open “(“ and
Close “)“ parentheses can be
used to indicate the order of
evaluation for the expression
4 Select OK to create the
relation
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To Sum Up ...
You have learned:
What Constraints are and what they are used for ...
And you have learned how to apply Constraints using:
Quick Constraints
Constraint Dialog Box
Auto Constraint
You have learned how to analyze a constrained system using:
Animate Constraint
and
How to sort Sketches using their Solving Status
How to to display a Quick Diagnosis of a Sketch geometry.
How to establish a relation between Dimensions on a Sketch
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Managing Sketches
Creating Planes
Replacing a Sketch
Changing a Sketch Support
Sketch Analysis
Changing Body
To Sum Up
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Creating Planes
You will learn how to create Planes in 3D space to be used as sketching planes
Planes
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Why Creating Planes ?
• Sometimes you will need to create Planes to use them as Sketching planes
Offset planes
• Offset planes are used to help define the
extrusion extent of a Sketch-Based feature
Offset planes
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Angled planes
• Angled Planes are used to define Sketch-Based
features that are angled with respect to other
features
Angled planes
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Creating an Angled Plane
1
Select the Plane Icon
(Available from the
WireFrame&Surfaces
(WFS or the
Generative Shape
Design (GSD)
Workbenches)
4
The resulting plane (Plane.3) is
45deg to the face, rotated about the
selected edge
2
For “Angle to Plane”
creation type, select edge
as reference to rotate
resulting plane about
3
Select the upper face as the
reference plane to rotate from.
A preview plane that can be
dragged to a new location is
shown
“Angle to Plane” is just one of many
creation types possible.
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Creating an Offset Plane
2
1
Select
a Face
Select the Plane Icon
(Available from the
WireFrame & Surfaces
(WFS) or the Generative
Shape Design (GSD)
Workbenches)
3
The offset distance from the
reference face can be set by
typing the value in the
dialog or dragging the
circular “handle” on the
graphic screen
“Offset from Plane” is just one of many
creation types possible.
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Additional Information ...
Different types of plane:
• The plane definition dialog box provides you
with various methods to define planes:
Different planes
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Replacing a Sketch
You will learn how to replace a sketch used to support a Solid or a Surface element by a
different one
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Why Replacing a Sketch ?
Replacing a sketch is a quick way to modify solids or surfaces using that
sketch for their definition.
The user creates a new sketch with a new profile. This new sketch will replace
the old one. The solids or surfaces that are based on the previous sketch do
not have to be re-created. They will be modified automatically.
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Replacing a Sketch
3
2
1
Check which plane the original
sketch lies on. You can use the
Parent/Children analysis from the
Contextual Menu (third mouse
button on the sketch) if you like
Create the new sketch on the same
plane (Note: although this is normally
the case - it is not a requirement)
Right click on the original
sketch and drag down to
“Replace”. Click on your
new sketch as the
replacing sketch
4
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Changing a Sketch Support
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Why Changing a Sketch Support?
Changing a Sketch Support:
By changing its supporting plane, a
sketch can be moved to a new plane
without having to recreate it
Copies of a sketch can be moved onto
different planes in this way
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Changing the Sketch Support
1
While outside the Sketcher mode,
use the Contextual Menu on the
Sketch to be modified and drag
down to Change Sketch Support
Any Solid or Surface elements attached
to the Sketch will be moved accordingly
2 Select the new plane for the Sketch
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Sketch Analysis
You will learn how to analyze sketches: geometry, projection and intersection. You will get
either a global or an individual status, and you will be able to correct any problem
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Why Analyzing the Geometry of a Sketch? (1/2)
Most of the time, you draw a sketch in order to use it to build sketch based features (e.g. pads).
Sometimes, when you try to use a sketch, CATIA refuses to build the feature because the
sketch is not closed (or overlapping) and it is sometimes difficult to see where the sketch is
opened (or overlapping).
The Tools + Sketch Analysis option allows you to check whether a sketch can be used to create
a sketch based feature
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Why Analyzing the Geometry of a Sketch? (2/2)
During the sketch analysis, it is possible to do corrective actions:
• Set in Construction Mode
• Close Opened Profile
• Delete Geometry
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Why Analyzing the Projection/Intersection of a Sketch? (1/2)
The Sketch Analysis option can be used to check the projection onto or intersection with 3D
elements
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Why Analyzing the Projection/Intersection of a Sketch? (2/2)
During the sketch analysis, it is possible to do corrective actions:
• Isolate Geometry
• Activate / Deactivate
• Delete Geometry
• Replace 3D Geometry
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Analyzing a Sketch: Geometry (1/2)
The Tools + Sketch Analysis command allows
you to check if a sketch can be used to create a
sketch based feature
1
In order to edit the sketch,
double click on Sketch.1
in the tree
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Select the Tools+ Sketch Analysis
menu option
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Analyzing a Sketch: Geometry (2/2)
The Tools + Sketch Analysis command allows us
to check if a sketch can be used to create a
sketch based feature
3
If necessary, select the
Geometry tab in the dialog
box
4
In order to better see the sketch, select
the Hide constraints button, the
constraints will be hidden
You can now see where the sketch
is opened and you can correct it
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Analyzing a Sketch: Projection/Intersection (1/2)
The Tools + Sketch Analysis menu option allows
you to check if a sketch can be used to create a
sketch based feature
1
In order to edit the
sketcher, double click on
Sketch.3 in the tree
2
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Select the Tools+ Sketch Analysis
menu option
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Analyzing a Sketch: Projection/Intersection (2/2)
The Tools + Sketch Analysis menu option allows
you to check if a sketch can be used to create a
sketch based feature
3
If necessary, select the
Projection/Intersection tab in the
dialog box
4
You can now check if the intersections
and projections contained in the
sketcher are valid or not
Intersection between 3d elements
Projection of 3d elements
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Additional Information
Different corrective actions can be done when analyzing a sketch:
Analyzing a Sketch: Geometry
Set in Construction Mode
Close Opened Profile
Delete Geometry
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Additional Information
Different corrective actions that can be done when analyzing a sketch:
Analyzing a Sketch: Projection/Intersection
Isolate Geometry: When using this icon, the selected projected or
intersecting element is separated from its 3d components
Activate/Deactivate: When using this icon, the selected element
(of the sketch) is no more taken into account when creating a
sketch based feature, but the element still exists
Delete Geometry: When using this icon, the selected
element is remove from the sketch
Replace 3d Geometry: When using this icon with a
projected or intersecting element (intersection or projection
with 3d objects), you can select another 3d element to
modify the projection or the intersection
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Change Body
You will learn how to move one sketch from a body to another one
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Why Moving One Sketch from a Body to Another one ?
When working with several bodies, you may want to create a sketch based feature (a pad for
example) and the necessary sketch has been created in a body different from the active one. In
this case you may want to transfer the sketch from its body of creation into the active one (it is
not mandatory but it is helpful to understand the part structure
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Changing Body
You can move one sketch from a body to
another one
1
Select the Change body
command from the sketch
contextual menu
2
Select the body in which you
want to move the sketch, then
select OK
You get:
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To Sum Up ...
You have learned how to manage 2D sketches in 3D space by:
Creating Planes in 3D
and using tools such as:
Replacing a Sketch
Changing a Sketch Support
Sketch Analysis
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