A Additional Projects
Project 1
Project 2
Project 3
Project 4
Project 5
Project 6
Project 7
Project 8
Project 9
Project 10
Project 11
Project 12
Project 13
Project 14
Project 15
Project 16
Project 17
Project 18
Project 19
Project 20
Project 21
Project 22
B Expression Operators
Overview
The following information lists the various operators that may be used in
expression s.
B
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Expression Operators
Operators
There are several types of operators that you may use in the expression
language.
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Expression Operators
X = 90 – (10 + 30) = 50
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Expression Operators
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Expression Operators
Built-in Functions
Built-in functions include math, string, and engineering functions.
Scientific Notation
You may optionally enter numbers in scientific notation. The value you enter
must contain a positive or negative sign. For example, you can enter:
2e+5 which is the same as the value 200000
Built-in Functions
abs Returns the absolute value of a given number
arccos Returns the inverse cosine of a given number in degrees
arcsin Returns the inverse sine of a given number in degrees
arctan Returns the inverse tangent of a given number in degrees
from –90 to +90
arctan2 Returns the inverse tangent of a given delta x divided by a
given delta y in degrees from –180 to +180
ASCII Returns the ASCII code of the first character in a given
string or zero if the string is empty
ceiling Returns the smallest integer that is bigger than a given
number
Char Returns the ASCII character for a given integer in the
range 1 to 255
charReplace Returns a new string from a given source string, character
to replace and the corresponding replacement characters.
compareString Case sensitive compare of two strings
cos Returns the cosine of a given number in degrees
dateTimeString Retur ns the system date and time in the format “Fri Nov
21 09:56:12 2005\n”
floor Returns the largest integer less than or equal to a given
number
format Returns a formatted string, using C-style formatting
specification
getenv Returns the string value of a given environment variable
string
hypcos Returns the hyperbolic cosine of a given number
hypsin Returns the hyperbolic sine of a given number
Built-in Functions
log Returns the natural logarithm of a given number
log10 Returns the logarithm base 10 of a given number
MakeNumber Returns the number or integer of a given numerical string
max Returns the largest number from a given number and
additional numbers
min Returns the smallest number from a given number and
additional numbers
mod Returns the remainder (modulus) when a given numerator
is divided by a given denominator (by integer division)
NormalizeAngle Normali zes a given angle (degrees) to be between 0 and
360 degrees
pi() Returns pi
Radians Converts an angle in degrees into radians
replaceString Replaces all occurrences of str1 with str2
round Returns the integer nearest to a given number, returns the
even integer if the given number ends in .5
sin Returns the sine of a given number in degrees
sqrt Returns the inverse square root of a given positive number
StringLower Returns a lowercase string from a given string StringUpper
Returns an uppercase string from a given string
StringValue Returns a string containing a textual representation of a
given value
subString Returns a new string containing a subset of the elements
from the original list
tan Returns the sine of a given number
ug_ functions see the documentation for descriptions of dozens more
specialized math and engineering functions
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C
Appendix
Overview
This appendix describes the various Point Constructor methods that may
be used.
The Point Constructor dialog provides a standard way to specify points. It
allows the creation of point objects as well as the determination of locations
in three-dimensional space.
Points may be specified in one of two ways: either choose one of the provided,
icons at the top of the dialog, or directly enter the X-Y-Z coordinates in the
fields provided.
C
Methods to Specify a Point
The top of the Point Constructor dialog displays icons representing various
methods for specifying a point. As the cursor is passed over these icons, the
icon block displays the name of the method.
The icon methods are described below.
Inferred Point
Depending on where you select when using this option, one of the following
single selection options will be used: cursor location, existing point, end
point, mid point or arc center. This option does not require a selection of the
particular point type for each selection.
Cursor Location
Use this option to construct points anywhere on the screen by positioning the
cross hairs and indicating a location. The location defined lies on the W C S
Work plane.
To locate points quickly and precisely, use a grid (see Preferences→Work
Plane →Show Grid). When Snap to Grid is on, points snap to the nearest
grid position. The grid spacing may be set as desired. The spacing in the
X-direction does not need to be the same as the spacing in the Y-direction.
For example, if the sma llest increment on the part is in eighths of an inch
(.125), then the grid spacing would be set to .125. A point at exactly one inch
in X and two inches in Y could be created by counting over eight grid points in
X and up sixteen in Y and indicating a screen position.
Existing Point
C
End Point
Use this option to specify locations at the end points of existing lines (1),
arcs (2), conics (3), and splines (4).
When selecting geometry, place the selection ball near the end point (1) you
wish to select. The point is located at the end of the curve nearest to where it
was selected (see below). Closed curve s, such as complete circles, have only
one endpoint because the two ends are at the same coordinate location.
C
Control Point
Use this option to locate points at the control points of geometric objects. The
control points, which vary for each object type, include: Existing points, End
points of conics, End points and Mid points of open arcs, Center points of
circles or arcs, Mid points and End points of lines, and End points or Knot
points of splines.
Use the cursor to select objects. Since some objects have more than one
control point, place the cross hairs near the control point desired. The system
locates the control point nearest the position where the curve is selected.
The illustration below shows the various locations of control points on
existing lines (1), arcs (2), conics (3), and splines (4).
C
Intersection Point
Use this option to locate a position at the intersection of two curves or at the
intersection of a curve and a surface or plane. If the curves intersect more
than once, the system creates the point nearest to where the second curve
was selected.
When two selected curves are not coplanar with the XC-YC plane the system
creates the point on the first curve (1) selected. By projecting the second
curve (2) parallel to the ZC axis an apparent intersection is calculated and
the point (3) is defined on the first object selected (see below). Projections are
always done along the ZC-axis.
ZC
YC
XC
C
Arc/Ellipse/Sphere Center
In the example below, selecting with the circumference (1) of the large circle
within the selection ball defines the center point (2) of the large circle.
Selecting near the center of the large circle (1) will not select the center of
the large circle since the selection ball touches the circumference of the
small circle.
C
Angle on Arc/Ellipse
The angle value is entered in degrees. The angle is referenced from the
positive XC axis and is measured counterclockwise in the WC S. The angular
position on the arc or ellipse may also be defined on the unconstructed portion
(2) of an arc or ellipse.
C
Quadrant Point
Use this option to locate positions at the quarter points of an arc or an ellipse.
Points may be located at the starting point of the arc or ellipse and then
at quarte r-distance intervals along the object. The point located (1) is the
quadrant point nearest to the position selected (2). The quadrant position
may also be defined on the unconstructed portion (3) of an arc.
C
Point on Curve/Edge
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Point on Surface
The U and V Parameters can have values between 0 and 1 to define the
location on the face.
C
WCS and Absolute Coordinates
Choose WCS or Absolute to specify the coordinate system to reference when
entering values in the Base Point fields. The W C S (Work Coordinate System)
is the default. The WCS may be moved to any loca tion and placed in any
orientation. The absolute coordinate system is a fixed coordinate system.
Reset
The Reset button sets the values X, Y, and Z coordinates of the Base Point to
0 and sets the Offset method to None.
C
Offset
This option allows you to specify a position in model space offset from a
reference position. The offset may be specified in several different methods.
Once an offset method has been speci fied, it remains in effect until another
one is chosen. The default is None (no offset).
Rectangular Offset
This option allows a position to be offset by keying in values that represent
the X, Y, and Z directions relative to the coordinate system specified from a
reference point (see below).
The location of the offset point (1) relative to the reference point (2) is
determined by the coordinate system (3) selected and the orientation of that
coordinate system.
The origin of the coordinate system has no effect on the offset.
C
Cylindrical Offset
This option allows an offset point (1) to be specified by keying in cylindrical
coordinates.
The offset values for Radius (2), Angle (3), and Delta-ZC (4) are defined
relative to the specified coordinate system and applied as illustrated below.
The radius and the angle always lie in the X-Y plane of the coordinate system
speci fied.
A cylindrical offset may reference either the absolute coordinate system or
the work coordinate system.
ZC
YC
XC
Spherical Offset
This option allows spec ification of an offset position using spherical
coordinates, two angles and a radius (see below).
Angle 1 always lies in the X-Y plane, and Angle 2 defines the elevation of the
offset point from the X-Y plane. The radius defines the distance between the
base point and the offset point. A spherical offset may reference either the
work coordinate system or the absolute coordinate system.
Z
Y
C
Vector Offset
This option allows speci fication of an offset point (1) by indicating a direction
and distance (2). A vector (3) is defined by selecting a line (4). The direction of
that vector is determined by which end of the line is selected.
Z
Y
The direction of the offset is determined by the where the curve is selected
relative to reference point. In the example below, the reference point (1) is
in the middle of the curve. Selecting the curve at position (2) to produce
direction (3) and selecting at position (4) to produ ces direction (5).
D Customer Defaults
D
Overview
There are utilities and customization files which affect the default interface
and behavior of NX. This appendix covers these topics which would normally
be the responsibility of a system administrato r.
Customer Defaults
Customer defaults are accessed by choosing
File→Utilities→Customer Defaults.
D When NX is first started (out-of-the -box) the defaults are set to User and a
variable points to a user file which may or may not exist. This is an extract
from the log file for a user named “nxuser” after logging in and starting NX
for the first time:
Processing customer default values file
C:/Documents and Settings/nxuser
/Local Settings/Application Data/Unigraphics Solutions
/NX4/nx4_user.dpv
User customizations file
C:/Documents and Settings/nxuser
/Local Settings/Application Data/Unigraphics Solutions
/NX4/nx4_user.dpv does not exist
The fact that the file does not exist is of no concern because the path is
writable for the person logged in.
NX will create the file nx4_user.dpv when and if the user makes a change to
the defaults.
If the administrator wishes to prevent the user from changing the defaults,
i.e., set them as User (Read Only), there are various ways to accomplish it:
• Create the file and customize it as you wish, and then make it read only.
• Define the file in a path to which the user cannot write. The file and the
path need not exist.
• Lock one or more defaults at a higher level, i.e. group or site level.
There are three leve ls of defaults that your system administrator can set.
These are site, group, and user. Any of all of these levels may be read-write,
although it is customary to set the site and group levels to read only. D
At the Site and Group levels the dialog displays padlocks beside each default,
enabling the administrator to lock out a particular default for lower levels.
When a lock is active not only is the text de-emphasized but value change
is prohibited. Even if the site (or a lower) DPV file is writable the value of
a locked default can not be changed until the lock icon has been toggled off
for the give n default).
For example, to lock out the ability to create promotions, the administrator
clicks the lock beside promotions at the site or group level. The icon changes
color and the text is de-emphasized.
The system administrator can use the Default Lock Status to set the global
locked status for all of the customer defaults on all defaults pages. This
allows strategies like All are locked except..." or All are unlocked except...
instead of requiring the assertion of 5000+ individual locks.
D
Locks at the group level change color and the text is de-emphasized.
The user then sees all options for Site Standards de-emphasized and
padlocked. No Site Standards may now may be changed at the user level.
There are two possible settings for the user level and one each for the group
and site levels:
Variable Description
Defaults File Heading D
UGII_LOCAL_USER_DEFAULTS This variable is a fully qualified file
MISCELLANEOUS speci fication: it can be any file name
in any location.
The recommended file extension is
.dpv
The file need not exist. The file
will be created when the initial
customizations are saved.
The directory path must exist and be
writeable to create the file.
UGII_USER_DIR This directory pointed to must have
UGALLIANCE Variables the startup directory defined in
structure outlined below. The file
nx4_user.dpv will be created when the
initial customizations are saved (if it
does not already exist) in the startup
folder.
There is a standard structure for customer site installation of menu files and
shared libraries. This directory structure defines three subdirectories. For
D the purpose of this discussion only the startup folder need exist; howeve r, you
might encounter the others if you have site customization.
The DPV files contain only the defaults that are changed from the hard–coded
settings.
You may review your changes at any time: D
• Set the Defaults Level to the level you want to examine, Site, Group,
or User.
Here is an example of defa ults additionally set for Design Applications using
NX.
To update to a new release, you need only define the DPV files you want to
use at whatever levels your organization uses.
D When you receive the new software use Import Defaults to validate your
Total settings rejected due to values being locked at the higher level: 0
Total settings already set to the same value and lock status: 0
E Translators
Overview
There are some file formats witch are used cor communication with
other softwares . This appendix covers how to create and import
these formats like Iges, Step and DXF/DWG files.
You can start the translators from the Unigraphics NX Menu on UNIX or from
StartèUnigraphics NXèUnigraphics NX ToolsèTranslatorsèIGES/STEP/DXFDWG on
Windows.
For the quick run through we will use the IGES translator. However all of the translators
operate in the same manner.
First, you select Import or Export (Import is the default, so we will use it for our Getting
Started example). You will be able to change the direction later if you make a mistake.
Main Dialog
Import
The main dialog is similar for each translator. Subsequent documentation covers all of the
icons and menu items in detail, but for now lets concentrate on a straightforward mutli-file
IGES translation.
The first thing to do is select the files you want to translate. To do this, use the File Open
This brings up a file selection dialog where you can select multiple IGES files to import. You
can use the Shift and Control keys for multiple selections.
The main dialog lists files that you selected in the Files to Import list and the name of the
Unigraphics NX part file to be created is listed in the Files to Create list. Later we will show
how to rename the Unigraphics NX part files is you don’t like the default.
Once you have selected files, the Translate icon becomes active. Note that there are three
ways to start the actual translation. The translate icon on the main dialog and on the
menu bar do the same thing – as the does the Translate item on the File drop down menu!
You can now start the translation process by selecting the Translate icon. You will receive a
notification the translation has started – as a separate process.
This message box will remain until the translation ends. You can dismiss the message box by
selecting Ok. The translator will continue to run whether the message is there or not.
After you start the translation you can continue use the user interface or you can exit. Exiting
the user interface will NOT stop any translations that has started but not completed.
©UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved Modeling NX4 E- 5
Translator
We can continue with more translation activities while the IGES import activity is running.
First, note that the Translate icon has gone inactive. This indicates that a translation for this
file list, with the current settings, using the list of output names, has initiated. We assume
you’d want to change something before re-starting the translation.
Just to show how things work, let’s export the Unigraphics NX parts we just created with the
IGES import function (of course this means you need to wait until the translation is
completed).
Now, use the File Selection button to select the files to export.
One method to try during this example is to change a setting that controls how the export of
the part files completes.
You use the Settings icon to bring up the IGES Export Settings dialog.
Select the Advanced tab to get the option to change the Coincident Point
Resolution the receiving system should use. Specify a tolerance of 0.009.
Since we will be sending files to this supplier on a regular basis, we want to save this setting
change so that we don’t have to remember it each and every time we run.
Once we have saved the file, note that the name of the current Settings File (in the lower left
corner of the Main Dialog is updated.
In the future, when we start the IGES user interface, we can use the Open Settings file icon or
Open from the File menu to retrieve these saved settings.
to start the actual translation. The translate icon on the main dialog and on the menu bar
do the same thing - as the does the Translate item on the File drop down menu!
You can now start the translation process by selecting the Translate icon. You will receive a
notification the translation has started - as a separate process.
This message box will remain until the translation ends. You can dismiss the message box by
selecting Ok. The translator will continue to run whether the message is there or not.
After the translation is started you can continue use the user interface or you can exit. Exiting
the user interface will NOT stop any translations that have been initiated but not completed.
For our getting started effort, lets continue with more translation activities while the IGES
import activity is running.
First, note that the Translate icon has gone inactive this indicates that a translation for
this file list, with the current settings, using the list of output names has already been initiated.
We assume you'd want to change something before re-starting the translation.
Export
Just to show how things work, lets export the Unigraphics NX parts we just created with the
IGES import function (of course this means you need to wait until the translation is
completed).
Now, just like on Import, use the File Selection button to select the files to Export.
One file thing to try during this getting started example is to change a setting that controls
how the export of the part files will be done.
You use the Settings icon to bring up the IGES Export Settings dialog.
Select the Advanced tab to get to the option to change - the Coincident Point
Resolution the receiving system should use. Specify a tolerance of .009.
Since we will be sending files to this supplier on a regular basis, we want to save this setting
change so that we don't have to remember it each and every time we run.
Once we have saved the file, note that the name of the current Settings File (in the lower left
corner of the Main Dialog updates.
In the future, when we start the IGES user interface, we can use the Open Settings file icon
(the on the menu bar) or Open from the File menu to retrieve these saved settings.
We can now launch the export translation process using the Translate icon .
The main dialog is similar for each translator. Here is an overview of the main dialog.
Menu Bar
Overview
The menu bar has 3 items - File, Edit, and Help. They are activated using the Alt-F (File), Alt-
E (Edit) and Alt H (Help), or by dropping them down by picking with the mouse. All frequently
used menu items have corresponding toolbar icons.
File Menu
The File Menu allows you to do file operations on Settings files, change the direction of the
translation, initiate the actual translation process, and exit. There are corresponding tool bar
icons for the frequently used items of Settings File Open, Save, and Translate.
When a settings file opens all of its values validate prior to updating the Settings dialog. The
Setting dialogs (General and Advanced) for both directions (import and export) updates
automatically to reflect the values in the settings file. The Settings dialog displays
automatically under the assumption you will want to (at least) validate the settings just
recalled.
Import / Export
You can change the direction of the translation once you have started. When yo u change the
translation direction, any selected files will clear. All captions and headings update to reflect
the current translation direction.
Translate
Once you have selected files, the Translate menu item and icons becomes active. Note
that there are three ways to start the actual translation. They all do the same thing - we just
want to make it easy for you to start the translation process!
This message box will remain until the translation ends. You can dismiss the message box by
selecting Ok. The translator will continue to run whether the message is there or not.
After the translation starts you can continue to use the user interface or you can exit. Exiting
the user interface will NOT stop any translations that has already started but not completed.
Exit
If you select Exit, then the user interface application will end - but not any translation
processes that are running. You can also use the window to terminate the application.
You will be reminded to save your changes if you had previously opened a settings file and
not saved your changes.
Overview
The edit menu provides access to the Settings dialog, and the Rename and Remove
functions. There are corresponding tool bar icons for each of these menu items.
Settings
The Settings menu item (or icon) invokes translator-specific dialogs to control the
translation process.
Remove
The Remove menu item (or icon) allows you to remove (highlighted) files from the Files to
Export / Files to Import list. Right mouse button over the highlighted files also brings ups the
Remove pop up menu. When files are removed from the Files to Import list, the
corresponding entry in the Files to Create list is removed as well.
This button and icon are not active unless you select files in the list.
The Rename menu item (or icon) allows you to rename files in the Files to Create list. Like
the Remove option, the Rename function can be accessed with a right mouse button click
when files have been selected in the Files to Create list. All Unigraphics NX file naming rules
are enforced.
You select files to import (or export) using the File Open icon within the Files to Import section.
This brings up a File Selection dialog where you can select multiple files to import. You use
the Shift and Control (Ctrl) keys for multiple selections.
You can translate only files from one directory as a group. There is no concatenation of
subsequent file selections, even if they are from the same directory.
TIP: You can type the name of the directory where the files to translate
reside directly into the directory name field. When you type Enter
the system will automatically select all of the appropriately named
files in the directory.
The Files to Create list populates with the list of names selected for translation with the
appropriate file extension.
You use the Browse button to specify the directory/folder where the translated files create.
When the translators are initiated, they will attempt to read the appropriate Settings file from
the startup directory, and if none exists, the UI will look in the appropriate UGII_BASE_DIR
directory for the one provided on the install. In the rare instances when neither exists, the
following message appears:
All of the settings dialogs allow you to change the current setting of any given option. Any
changes you make on the Settings dialogs retain if you leave the dialog using OK or Apply.
And while you use these settings for any translation initiated, they do not automatically save
to the opened Settings file. You must explicitly save the setting using the Save or Save As
options on the File menu.
Cancel reverts the setting options back to the last OK or Apply. The internal data store do not
update.
Any value you type (rather than select or check) validates when focus is lost on the option. If
you enter an invalid value you will receive an error message that indicates the problem and
the range of acceptable values.
If you select Exit, and you had previously opened a settings file and have made changes but
not saved them, you will be reminded to save your changes.
Object Types
You use the object types to limit the types of
data you import from the IGES file. If you
know the contents of the file, you might be
able to eliminate unwanted or unnecessary
construction geometry or drawing information
during the import by filtering unwanted data
types.
Map Subfigure
Subfigures are IGES constructs that represent geometry that repeats within a model. Most
systems use the Subfigure construct to pass assembly and component structure within an
IGES file. B y selecting this option, each subfigure creates as an Unigraphics NX component
within an assembly. The system bases the name of the component on the name of subfigure,
although some systems do not name their subfigures. If you don't map subfigures to
components, the geometry creates at each location where the subfigure is located.
The default range of 0-99999 will ensure all Levels are imported.
IGES files generally contain surface data. If you want to work with solid models, you can use
this option to have the IGES translator sew the surfaces as they are imported. The IGES
translator will make four attempts to sew the surfaces into a solid. After each attempt, the
surfaces that will not sew are removed from the sew operation (but still exist in the model).
The sew operation is then re-attempted. If a solid cannot be fully created, the surfaced that
could be sewn are left sewn, but you will have to us the Unigraphics NX Sew option in
Modeling NX4 to explicitly sew the remaining surface. Most ofte n surfaces do not successfully
sew due to large gaps between the surfaces. The IGES translator is conservative with the
tolerance it uses, since you can always increase the tolerances with the Unigraphics NX Sew
operation.
Object Types
These check boxes let you select the type of Unigraphics NX data to export to IGES.
The default is not to flatten the assembly but to output the components as nested subfigures.
Drawings to Export
You can either select All Drawings or you can Enter Drawings to Export by giving specific
names. Drawing names separate by commas. The drawing name list applies to all files
selected for export.
Views to Export
You can chose to export the Standard Views (TOP, FRONT, RIGHT, BACK, BOTTOM, LEFT,
TFR-ISO, TFR-TRI) and / or you can name specific User Views to export. The views names
are comma separated and exported if it exists in the file(s) being exported.
The default is to export all Standard Views and all User Views.
Assembly Options
These options let you decide to use the load_options.def file when Unigraphics NX is run, or
you can specify options that will apply only to the translation. There are times where you may
be exporting information, but not have the same environment used to create the information
originally. Also you may not want to export all of the components and these options let you
control the export operation without having to create special load_options.def files in
Unigraphics NX.
The assembly control options have the same impact as when used with Unigraphics NX to
load assemblies.
Map Crosshatch To
When exporting Unigraphics NX crosshatch information, you can represent it as IGES
Section Area data (the most common representation) or as Copious Data. You would only
use Copious Data if the receiving system has previously proven unable to handle Section
Area information appropriately (which should be very rare).
Revolve Faces To
The IGES translator can export revolved faces such as cones, spheres, tori, etc., as either
IGES Surface of Revolution entities or IGES B-surface entities.
E -30 Modeling NX4 ©UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved
Translator
Output Solids As
Solids can be output as Surfaces or just as their edge outline (Edges Only). The correct
choice is dependent on what the expected use of the data will be in the receiving system. If
the main purpose is to create drawings in the receiving system, the Edges Only is most
appropriate. If you use the geometry representation, (in addition to drawing information), then
select Surfaces to ensure a proper geometric representation.
Unigraphics NX IGES does not create the IGES solid entity at this time.
Approximation Tolerance
This is the tolerance the IGES translator uses when it needs to approximate a Unigraphics
NX surface object when there is no direct IGES entity to represent the information and an
IGES B-surface has to create. At this point, these are mainly Offset surfaces and Variable
Radius Blend surfaces within Unigraphics NX.
The entered value must be between .000001mm and .01mm. The smaller the value the more
accurate the approximation will be but the translation will take longer and a larger IGES file
will result.
It is reasonable to set this to an order of magnitude smaller than the receiving system's
machining tolerance if you know it. However .01 will generally be appropriate for most
systems.
JAMA Option
If you are required to export IGES data that meets the JAMA (Japanese Automotive
Manufacturers Association) specifications, you should check this option. Visit
http://www.jama.org for details on JAMA.
Note that you must purchase a separate license for this option to actually create the JAMA
specific information.
Catia requires all components to have the same MODEL DIMENSION value, which Catia
determines from this value in the IGES file. If the IGES file adds to an existing assembly
structure within Catia, this option lets the sender set the value to ensure the component will
be usable.
The default is to use the Unigraphics NX generated maximum Model Space values.
Configuration Information
The Author, Company, ID For Receiver, and Start Section items are general text entry fields.
This data is copied as entered to the appropriate fields within the IGES file. Configuration
information can be used to help manage data that is being exchanged, but it is does not have to
be provided. In most systems - including Unigraphics NX - if the data is in the IGES file, it is
assigned to general text attributes for the created part.
There is no default text entry for Author, Company, ID For Receiver, or Start Section.
Overview
STEP AP203 and AP214 are extremely similar in their specification.
The STEP user interfaces will look for the settings file step203ug.def or step214ug.def (as
appropriate) in the local directory. If the system finds a local file, use its contents as the initial
settings of the user interface. If you do not find the local file, then the
UGII_BASE_DIR\step203\step203ug.def or UGII_BASE_DIR \step214\step214ug.def file will
be used. These settings files distribute with the user interface options set to the most
appropriate values.
Object Types
These check boxes let you select the type of Unigraphics NX data to export to STEP. Solids,
Surfaces, and Wireframe are self-evident. Generally it is best to export your model data as
solid data.
Product Data is product configuration information that exchanges via STEP. Although
Unigraphics NX does not act on this data, if it exists as Unigraphics NX part attribute
information it will export.
Layers to Export
You can limit the data you export by only specifying the layers that contain the appropriate
information. You can enter layer numbers or layers ranges separated by commas. For
example, 1, 5, 88-109, 201, 206-210 is a legal specification.
It is reasonable to set this to an order of magnitude smaller than the receiving system's
machining tolerance if you know it.
Assembly Options
These options let you decide to use the load_options.def file when Unigraphics NX is run, or
you can specify options that will apply only to the translation. There are times where you may
be exporting information, but not have the same environment used to create the information
originally. Also you may not want to export all of the components and these options let you
control the export operation without having to create special load_options.def files in
Unigraphics NX.
The assembly control options have the same impact as when used with Unigraphics NX to
load assemblies.
The default is to use the Unigraphics NX load_options.def file to control assembly component
processing.
If the sending system does not support the Long Name extension then uncheck this option.
When a STEP file has validation data in it by the sending system, it imports into Unigraphics
NX as attribute information. specifically, DEA_AREA, DEA_VOLUME, DEA_COFGX ,
DEA_COFGY and DEA_COFGZ attributes are created with the validation fo r the part or
component as well as each solid.
E -36 Modeling NX4 ©UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved
Translator
The default is not export Validation Information.
Header Information
The Description, Author, Organization, and Authorization are general text entry fields that
correspond to STEP Header Section items. The STEP definition of these fields appears
below. There is no validation of the data on entry. Whatever information you enter is copied
as entered the STEP file.
Description is an informal description of the contents of the STEP file.
Author is the name and address of the person responsible for creating the STEP file.
Organization is the name of the internal or external organization of the Author.
Authorization is the name and address of the person who authorized sending the STEP file.
These fields are optional and generally not used in practice.
There is no default text for Description, Author, Organization, or Authorization.
Object Types
These check boxes let you select the type of STEP data to
import to Unigraphics NX Solids, Surfaces, and Wireframe
are self-evident.
Best Practice: Although you don't want to always select Surfaces, if after
you import data you appear to be missing data, you may want to
re-import and select the Surfaces (as well as Solids) option. There
are some systems that will exp ort solid data as surface data if they
have problems extracting the solid (as a solid) from their system.
STEP rarely uses Wireframe data.
DXF/DWG Settings
The DXF/DWG user interface looks for the settings file dxfdwg.def in the local directory. If you
find the settings file, it will use the contents for the initial settings of the user interface. If you
do not find a local file, then the UGII_BASE_DIR\dxfdwg\dxfdwg.def file is used.
Mapping Specifications
The Color mapping specification
lets you identify a file where you
have set up a mapping between
the NX color numbers and the
AutoCAD color numbers.
The Line Font mapping specification lets you identify a file where you have set up a mapping
between NX line font names and AutoCAD line font names.
The Character Font mapping specifications lets you identify a file where you have set up a
mapping between NX character font names and AutoCAD character font names.
Version
This drop-down list lets you select the DXF or DWG version you want to create. You can
create DXF or DWG R12, R13, R14, and 2000.
Flatten Assemb ly
This check box allows you to flatten the NX assembly into a single DWG. Assembly structure
can only be maintained using AutoCAD DWG format. AutoCAD Xref files create for the
components. If you select DXF as the output format, then the assembly will flatten
automatically.
Drawings to Export
You can either select All Drawings or you can Enter Drawings to Export by giving specific
names. Commas separate drawing names. The drawing name list applies to all files selected
for export.
The system will treat multiple drawings differently depending on what AutoCAD version and
format you are using. If you are exporting to AutoCAD 2000 DWG, then use the Layout
structure to represent the multiple NX drawings. If you are export to AutoCAD R14 (or lower)
DWG the translator will a utomatically create a DXF file as the Layout entity is not available
with these lower versions, and DWG does not support multiple drawings in the same file.
Views to Export
You can chose to export the Standard Views (TOP, FRONT, RIGHT, BACK, BOTTOM, LEFT,
TFR-ISO, TFR-TRI) and / or you can name specific User Views to export. The views names
are comma separated and will export if it exists in the exported file(s).
The default is to export all Standard Views and all User Views.
Assembly Options
These options let you decide to use the load_options.def file when NX is run, or you can
specify options that will apply only to the translation. There are times where you may be
exporting information, but not have the same environment used to create the information
originally. Also you may not want to export all of the components and these options let you
control the export operation without having to create special load_options.def files in NX.
Mapping Specifications
The Color mapping specification lets you identify a file where you have set up a mapping
between the NX color numbers and the AutoCAD color numbers.
The Line Font mapping specification lets you identify a file where you have set up a mapping
between NX line font names and AutoCAD line font names.
The Character Font mapping specifications lets you identify a file where you have set up a
mapping between NX character font names and AutoCAD character font names.
DXF/DWG layer names are character strings and could be unlimited in number. Since NX
only supports 256 numeric layers, you can use the following processes to map DXF/DWG
layers to NX. This processing approach ensures maximum retention of DXF/DWG layer
naming when data iterates through multiple DXF/DWG-NX exchanges.
For all other layers with names that do not represent a number in the range 1-256, then one
of two actions are taken.
In this case, we can establish a unique mapping for each DXF/DWG layer to
one of the NX numbered layers. All DXF/DWG layers that represent
numbered NX layers map first. Then, for each of the remaining DXF/DWG
layers, the system identifies the lowest numbered unused NX layer and the
DXF/DWG layer maps to that NX layer. A part attribute also adds to the NX
part that stores the NX layer number and the original DXF/DWG layer name.
For example, if the DXF/DWG file had 2 layers, 1 and test; 1 would map to
NX layer 1. DXF layer test would get mapped to the first vacant or
unallocated layer i.e., NX Layer 2. Additionally, a part attribute would get
created that has a title of LAYER_002 and its value would be test.
In this case, a unique mapping for each layer is not possible. All DXF/DWG
layers that represent numbered NX layers will map first. All the remaining
DXF/DWG layers map to NX layer 256. All objects that reside on these
remaining layers (beyond 256), that are created in NX (on layer 256) have an
object attribute assigned to them that has a title of LAYER. The value of the
attribute is the original DXF/DWG layer name. No part attributes would be
created for these additional layers.
One limitation is that DXF layer names can be 255 characters long, but NX
attributes can only store the first 132 characters, so some DXF layer names
could truncate in rare circumstances.
If a part attribute exists that has a name similar to LAYER_nnn, then the system will use the
value of that part attribute for the DXF/DWG layer name, instead of the NX layer (as
described above). For the example given for import example above (less than 256 layers) the
NX part when exported would cause NX layer 2 to map to DXF/DWG layer test (since a part
attribute of title LAYER_002 exists).
If the NX part has objects on layer 256, the above steps carry out to get the layer name.
Further, a check completes to see if the object has any attributes with a title of LAYER. If it
finds one, the system will use the string value of that attribute as the DXF/DWG layer name
for that object.
The NX DXF/DWG translator provides the ability to specify how character fonts, line styles,
and colors map when moving data between NX and AutoCAD.
You use the mapping specifications when you know that a particular font will present the data
better in the receiving system. While NX provides a suite of AutoCAD fonts, you may be
using your own NX fonts and/or you and your supplier may have agreed on a font that is not
one of the standard fonts provided by NX.
Mapping files are simple ASCII files (the formats are described below), normally named with
the <.txt> extension. However you can actually name them whatever you want.
The way mapping files are processed minimizes the amount of information you have to
provide in them. Only the particular values you want to change need specification in the
named mapping file. All other values use the standard mappings provided with the product.
Comments can be included in all mapping files by preceding them with an exclamation point
(!). You can add white space to improve readability.
The ACAD font file name should have the full file name with extension i.e., simplex.shx and
not simplex, however if no extension is given, .shx will be assumed.
The default fonts (when a specified font cannot be found) for import is 'blockfont' and for
export 'simplex.shx'. You can specify the use of a different default font. The best place to put
this override of the default is in the provided mapping files.
This would cause all text for which an unspecified mapping, to convert using italic font in the
DXF/DWG file instead of simplex.shx, and leroy instead of blockfont in the NX part.
If you specify the aspect ratio in the mapping file, it will override any aspect ratio specified in
the actual font definition.
If you do not specify the aspect ratio, it will calculate using the NX string length (exact) and
the DXF/DWG string length (approximate)with the mapped font.
If you do not specify an aspect ratio in the mapping file or in the definition file, an aspect ratio
of 1.0 is used.
You can use the specified aspect ratio for all annotation information. Exported NX dimension
information will have the text 'fit' to the correct string length (obtained from NX).
Character Replacement
You can specify text character sequences that he wants to replace with some other
sequence. This works for both import and export. This is especially useful when receiving or
sending files that contain special character (the German A with umlauts can be replace with
AE).
This replacement can cause text overwrites as string lengths could change.
EXPORT: {AutoCAD font name} = {NX font name} {,optional aspect ratio}
You can use the line font mappings to specify a user defined or standard ACAD linefont to
convert to one of the NX standard line fonts. The NX standard line fonts need to be one of
the following (all uppercase):
"UF_OBJ_FONT_SOLID"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_DASHED"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_INVISIBLE"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_PHANTOM"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_CENTERLINE"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_DOTTED"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_LONG_DASHED"
"UF_OBJ_FONT_DOTTED_DASHED"
For export, a similar mapping can be specified for converting to one of the following ACAD
standard line fonts ( all uppercase ) :-
CONTINUOUS
DASHED
HIDDEN
PHANTOM
CENTER
DOT
DASHDOT
The above mapping functionality is basically to help map user defined linefonts in the source
system to a standard linefont in the target system. You cannot specify non-standard linefonts
for the target system.
Color Mapping
Color mapping files have the same format as for line fonts. The mapping section has the color
mappings you can use in place of the standard color mapping (using RGB values).
You can find the standard AutoCAD color table definition at the AutoDESK website.
File Formats
GIF and JPEG Used widely on the World Wide Web. Images in these formats can be added to
HTML documents.
TIFF You can display TIFF image files in Unigraphics NX by selecting View ->
Visualization -> Display Image and selecting the image to view. You can import
TIFF images for use as backgrounds in High Quality Image.
BMP Standard Windows bitmap file. You can import this format into Microsoft
applications.
F Basic Curves
Purpose
This lesson introduces the Basic Curve Dialog.
Objectives
• Create Arcs.
• Create Circles.
• Create Fillets.
• Trim Curves.
Explicit Curves
The intent of this appendix is to teach 2D generator and guide geometry for the
purposes of sweeping through space to create solid bodies.
Basic Curves
When the Basic Curves icon is chosen, the Basic Curves dialog box is displayed.
The icons on this dialog box are displayed below.
Circle
Fillet
Edit Curve
Parameters
Line
Arc Trim
The portion of the Basic Curves dialog box below the icons is different for each
of the options selected.
The Basic Curves dialog box is used to create lines, arcs, circles, and fillets.
While creating these curves, there is also quick access to the Trim Curve and
Edit Curve Parameters functions.
The Dialog Bar is a series of text fields that appear at the bottom of the
graphics window when in the Basic Curves function. The text fields in the
Dialog Bar will vary depending on which type of curve is being created and
which options have been selected. For example, the Dialog Bar below is what
will appear when creating lines.
Location fields - XC, YC, and ZC. These fields track the location of the
cursor, or they can be used to input a coordinate location in the WCS.
Parameter fields - These fields control parameters of the curve, such as
length of a line, or radius of an arc.
To give a text field focus, the <Tab> key may be used or click the first mouse
button in the fields desired. Select once in the field to insert text in the existing
string, or select twice for overstrike mode.
When the XC, YC, or ZC field has focus, and <Enter> is pressed, the
location specified is accepted and an asterisk will appear in the graphics
area indicating that point.
When a parameter field (such as length, radius, etc. - any field other
than the three mentioned above) has focus and <Enter> is pressed, the
values in all parameter fields are accepted and applied to the curve being
constructed.
As soon as a line, arc, or circle is finished being created, new values may
be entered in the parameter text fields and the newlyĆcreated object will
be updated accordingly (unless String Mode is turned on.).
PreĆSelection Highlighting
When the Basic Curves dialog box is active, and the Point Method is Infer, an
object on which the Selection Ball is placed will always be preĆhighlighted,
regardless of the setting of the Preselection option in the Selection Preferences
dialog box. This includes all Control points (see below) of the highlighted
objects. The preselection color is determined by the setting in the Selection
Preferences dialog window.
Control Points
Each type of curve has its own unique set of control points (endpoints and
midpoints). This table shows the control points for some common curve types.
Arc Endpoints,
midpoint
TIP The endpoints of a circle are at 0Ăand 360 degrees, at the 3 0'clock
position. There are 2 endpoints at the same exact location.
In line and arc creation, the position of the cursor or Selection Ball as geometry
is selected is very important.
When the Infer point method is being used, the system infers the following:
Cursor Location (when a control point, arc center, or object is not in the
Selection Ball)
Control points (when inside the Selection Ball)
An entire curve (when an object is selected where a control point is not
encircled)
While Basic Curves are being created, valuable feedback will be given in the
Status line. It will tell what kind of point or object is highlighted. It will also
display the type of line or arc being created, as well as other useful information.
Point Method
The Point Method option menu, shown below, allows points to be specified
relative to existing geometry by specifying a cursor location or by using the
Point Subfunction. The options on this menu (other than Inferred Point and
Select Face) work similarly to those in the Point Constructor dialog box.
Inferred Point
Cursor Location
Existing Point
End Point
Control Point
Intersection Point
Arc/Ellipse/Sphere Center
Quadrant Point
Select Face
Point Constructor
(See page Appendix B for more information)
When using a point method other than Infer, several things change:
The cursor location is no longer tracked in the Dialog Bar.
PreĆselection highlighting reverts to the Selection Preferences dialog box
status.
Control points are no longer highlighted.
The Select Face option allows the selection of a face for use as the limiting
object for a line. When in any other curve creation mode (arc, circle, spline,
etc.) this option is not available. This option can also be used to create a line
normal to a face.
If the Point Constructor method is chosen, the Point Constructor dialog box is
displayed. When Back is chosen from that dialog box, the Basic Curve dialog
box returns.
Inferred Point
Angle on Arc/Ellipse
None
Rectangular
Cylindrical
Restores Base
Point values Spherical
to zero and Vector
Offset to none
Along Curve
String Mode
When this option is ON, the end of one object becomes the beginning of the
next. To stop string mode, turn the button OFF. To stop string mode and start it
again with the next object created, choose Break String or press the middle
mouse button.
NOTE: When String Mode is turned on, the entering of new values
in the parameter text fields as soon as a line or arc is finished being
created will not update the previously created curve.
Simply define the two points (see below). The points may be a combination of
screen positions and control points selected in the graphics area, or values
established by entering numbers in the XC, YC, and ZC fields in the Dialog Bar
and pressing <Enter>.
YC Second point
ZC XC
First point
When the second point of a line is defined using a screen position, and this
selection defines a line that is within the Snap Angle of being vertical or
horizontal from the first point, the line will snap to vertical or horizontal. (The
Snap Angle is controlled in the Sketch Preferences dialog box.) Snap Angle is
only applicable when using the Inferred point method.
YC
Snap angle is set to 3
ZC XC
Second point
3° 3°
First point 3°
3°
Second point
First point
YC
ZC XC
Cursor location
Start location
Start location
Cursor location
Move the cursor around. Depending on where the cursor is, the parallel,
perpendicular, or angled line (see below) may be previewed. The Status line
shows which mode is being previewed.
Line at an angle
Parallel line
Defined point
Perpendicular line
Selected line
Parallel at Distance From - This option affects line creation when a series of
parallel lines are being created. When this option is set to Original, each new
line is created at the specified distance from the line that was originally
selected. When it is set to New, each new line is created at the specified
distance from the last line created.
Offset
distance
New line
NOTE: The curve may be selected first, then the point may be
defined, if a tangent line is being created. If a perpendicular line is
being created, the point must be defined first.
There are times that the rubberĆbanding line is on the wrong side of
the curve. Move the cursor inside, then outside the curve until the
line snaps to the other side.
The example below shows two examples of creating a line through a point and
tangent or perpendicular to an arc or circle. (Notice that the dashed line shows
the line that would be created with the dashed cursor in that position, or by
selecting the object in that position.) The same is true for the solid line and
cursor.
Defined point
(the endpoint of the arc)
Tangent line
Tangent line
Perpendicular line
Defined point
Perpendicular line
Select the second curve, again being careful not to select one of its control
points.
When the desired line is displayed, select the highlighted geometry.
The illustration below shows the creation of 2 lines; one is tangent to a circle
and the other is perpendicular to a circle.
Tangent line
Second curve
Perpendicular line
First curve
Second
object
First object
2
Line tangent to a curve and Select two curves
parallel or perpendicular to 1 Select limiting point/object
a line
The snap angle is set to the default of 3°. Therefore, when cursor locations are
specified within 3° of vertical or horizontal, the line will snap to a truly vertical
or horizontal orientation.
TIP If a start position was erroneously selected, choosing the icon again
will reset the line creation process. There is no need to cancel out of
the Basic Curve dialog box.
Select here
Select here
Tab to the Angle text box on the Dialog Bar, enter 45, and
press Enter.
Select this
line here
Select this
line here
Before After
Select this
line here
Select this
line here
Before After
Select the bottom diagonal line with the cross hairs on the
endpoint as shown below. The endpoint highlights before
selection.
A line appears rubberĆbanding from the first point at 90° angles from the base
line, relative to the cursor position.
Select this
endpoint
Notice that the line was created on the side of the base line that the selection
ball was on at the time of line selection.
This line will be started at the WCS origin and its angle defined relative to the
WCS.
Insert→Curve→Basic Curves.
In the YC text box, key in 0 (zero) and press the Tab key.
Double click in the Angle text box of the Dialog Bar, type
200, and press the Tab key to lock in that value.
Position the cursor in the lower left to display the 200° line.
200°
To create a line at a specific angle from a base line and tangent to an existing
curve, both objects must be coplanar.
Select the last line created avoiding its control points. This
defines the base line.
In the Dialog Bar, double click in the Angle text box and key
in 20. Press Tab to lock in the angle value.
Move the selection ball around until the status line reads
Angle, then use the middle mouse button to select Lock
Mode.
A line is created tangent to the arc, at an angle of 20° from the base curve and
trimmed to the horizontal line.
20°
Arcs and circles are created with different icons and minor differences in
functionality. Both provide immediate display feedback and rely on the simple
definition of arc center, size, and start and end points.
Creating Arcs
Arcs have four control points: two endpoints, a midpoint, and the arc
center.
If an arc is chosen such that one of its four control points lies within the
Selection Ball, its control point will be selected.
If an arc is chosen with none of its control points within the Selection Ball,
the arc itself will be selected, inferring tangency or a trim location.
Creation Method
With this method, an arc may be created that passes through three points,
or which passes through two points and is tangent to a selected object.
With this method, the center point, then the start and endpoints of the
arc are defined, which can be adjusted by entering angle values in the
Dialog Bar.
Creating Circles
Circle creation simply requires the definition of a center location and a size.
That information can be defined by numerical entry or selections from the
screen.
Three points will be used to create an arc. The arc will start at the first point,
end at the second, and pass through the third.
Second selection
(for end point)
Third selection
(for arc size)
First selection
(for start point)
Second selection
(for end point)
Double click in the XC text box on the Dialog Bar and enter
0, press Tab, in the YC text box enter 0, press Enter
First selection
(for start point)
Second selection
(for end point)
Choose Fit.
The arc is created starting at the diagonal line endpoint and ending at a point
that is in line with the arc center and the end of the horizontal line endpoint.
Fillets
Fillets are arcs that have tangent relationships with one or more curves. They
are editable as fillets, meaning the tangent relationships will be maintained as
the fillet radius or arc center is changed.
When the Fillet icon is chosen on the Basic Curves dialog box, the Curve Fillet
dialog box is displayed, as shown below:
Procedure
Choose the type of fillet desired.
Indicate the desired trim methods for the objects (two and three curve
only).
Enter the radius of the fillet.
Select the objects.
Specify the approximate center of the fillet (two and three curve only).
When creating 2 and 3ĆCurve Fillets, trim options for each of the selected
curves may be specified. If no trimming options are selected, none of the curves
are trimmed. Select from the following trim options:
The Delete Second Curve and Trim Third Curve options are applicable to the
3ĆCurve Fillet only.
When creating 2 and 3ĆCurve Fillets the approximate center must be indicated;
this is accomplished by using the cursor or the Point Constructor. Using the
cursor location method in Point Constructor selects a position in the XĆY plane
of the WCS.
If a fillet is created other than desired, Undo may be selected to delete the fillet
and restore the selected curves.
Simple Fillet
Simple Fillet creates a fillet between two coplanar nonĆparallel lines. The size
of the fillet is determined by entering a value for the radius first. The lines are
automatically trimmed to the points of tangency.
NOTE: The trim options and Point Constructor are not available.
The fillet that is created is directly related to where the lines were selected. The
Selection Ball must be positioned in such a manner as to include both lines. If
the Selection Ball contains only one line, an error message displays.
Crosshairs
L1 L1
Selected quadrant
L2 L2
BEFORE AFTER
As both lines are selected, the crosshairs determine which fillet is created; it
indicates the center of the arc. Position the crosshairs in the quadrant formed
by the lines to define the desired fillet center. Each line extends or trims to
theĂarc.
Before
After
2 Curve Fillet
The 2 Curve Fillet constructs a fillet between two curves, including points, lines,
circles, conics or splines. A two curve fillet is generated in the counterclockwise
direction from the first curve to the second.
Curve 1 Curve 2
Approximate fillet
center
Curve 2 Curve 1
If the two selected curves are in different planes, the fillet plane is the plane
containing the tangent of the first curve. The plane is normal to the vectors that
are normal to both tangents and is totally independent of the WCS.
(See below.)
Fillet
Vectors
normal to
both
tangents
Curve 2
3 Curve Fillet
This option creates a fillet between three curves, which can be any combination
of points, lines, arcs, conics, and splines. The Radius entry box is not available
because it is determined by the geometry selected.
Curve 1 Curve 3
Curve 2
Before After
The system trims curves, based on the selected options, to the tangent point of
the fillet.
If any one of the curves selected is an arc, the system prompts for additional
information to create the fillet:
Tangent Outside
Fillet Within Circle
Circle Within Fillet.
Curve 1
Curve 1
Before After Fillet
Curve 2
Curve 3
Curve 3
Tangent Outside
Curve 1
Curve 1
Fillet
Curve 2
Curve 3 Curve 3
Before After
Curve 1 Curve 1
Curve 2 Fillet
Curve 3
Curve 3
Before After
The Point Constructor selections may be used to create a cliff edge fillet, where
the fillet is contiguous with a selected curve, but not tangent to it.
1
2
1
2
2
1
This concludes discussion of the creation functions found on the Basic Curves
dialog box.
In Area #1, select the fillet lines in each of the four corners
as shown below. Keep both lines inside the Selection Ball
when selecting. Cursor placement is critical.
Before After
To restore the lines to their original state, choose Undo (using the third mouse
button).
For this step create a fillet with two curves, but trim just one of the curves.
Define which object will be trimmed. In this case trim the line but not the arc.
(See below.)
Choose the Trim Second Curve button to turn the option off.
In area #2, select the yellow line (first object), then select
the arc (second object).
Select second
Indicate here
Select first
Before After
Step 3 Create a 2 Curve Fillet (and Use a Point for One of the
Curves).
Notice that the fillet process is modal, that more fillets may be created without
reselecting any icons.
Indicate here
Select point
Select first
Before After
Trim the first and third curves and delete the second.
Select first
Select second
Select third
Indicate here
Before After
Editing Curves
The options on the Edit Curve option allows the modifications of existing
curves. To display the dialog box, choose Insert→Curve→Basic Curves to
display the Basic Curves dialog box, then choose the Edit Curve Parameters
icon.
Edit
Curve
Parameters
Trim
When this icon is active and a curve is selected, the edit mode for that type of
curve appears.
Editing a Line
Editing an Arc or Circle
Editing a Line
A line may be edited by changing its endpoints or its parameters (length and
angle).
Select the line end to be modified. The line now rubberĆbands from the
fixed end.
Specify a new position using any of the Point Method options on the
dialog box.
The two methods used to edit an arc or circle are Parameters and Dragging.
The arc's or circle's parameters may be changed by entering new values in the
Dialog Bar, or changing them by dragging to a new location.
An arc or circle may be moved to a new location, regardless of the editing mode
that is active, as follows:
There are two ways to change an arc or circle using Dragging mode:
To change the radius of the arc or circle, select it, avoiding its control
points, and drag it. When it is the size desired, press the first mouse
button.
Other geometry may also be selected to control the size of the arc. For example,
a line may be selected to make the arc tangent to it, or the endpoint of another
arc may be selected to make the selected arc pass through it.
To change the start or end angle of the arc or circle, select it at the
desired endpoint and drag it. When the angle is correct, press the first
mouse button.
Other geometry may also be selected to control the start and/or end angles of
the arc. A line may be selected to stop the arc at its intersection with the line, or
an endpoint of another object may be selected, and that endpoint will be
projected onto the arc to determine its start angle.
Trim
Caution must be taken when selecting the curve to trim. The portion of the
curve being trimmed determines which end is trimmed. The segment of the
object that is selected is always removed or extended (see below). If there are
multiple intersection points, select near the desired intersection, the system will
prompt for the selection of the desired intersection point to be used as the
bounding point.
Intersection Intersection
Point Point
One bounding object must be specified, and not more than two, when trimming
a curve. Once the bounding objects have been specified, multiple curves may be
specified and they will all be trimmed to the bounding objects.
Procedure
Select the bounding objects.
Define the type of trim to perform.
Select the curve to trim.
LINE1
LINE2
Select the arc as the bounding object
LINE3
LINE1
Select the first line
to be trimmed
LINE2
LINE3
LINE1
LINE2
LINE3
LINE1
LINE2
LINE3
The system will trim LINE3 by the combination of the side of the midpoint of
LINE3 and the side of the bounding curve.
• Create Arcs.
• Create Circles.
• Create Fillets.
• Trim Curves.
G Transformations
Purpose
This lesson will discuss the fundamentals of transformations.
Objectives
Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:
• Translate .
• Scale .
Transformations
Transformation Procedure
Choose Edit→Transform.
Select the objects for transformation. The Class Selection Subfunction
dialog box may be used to select the objects.
Choose a transformation type from the dialog box shown below.
Complete the additional selections and choices from dialog boxes. Then
complete the choices on the dialog box shown below, and choose OK.
Original object
Transformed Object
Trace Curves
Before After
Trace Status may be used with Translate, Scale, Rotate, Mirror, or Reposition
to create closed wireframe shapes. Trace Status is not applicable to solid
bodies, surfaces, or boundary objects. Trace curves are independent of the
Destination Layer setting, and are always created on the current Work layer.
After the number of subdivisions has been entered, the Transform Type dialog
box redisplays. Multiple Copies may be selected to enter a desired number of
copies.
When a solid body is moved, its positioning features and their associated
dimensions are moved. All associated datum planes and axes are also moved
with their solid body. All sketch features (when sketched on a face or datum
plane) are moved with the solid body as well.
When a solid body containing swept features is moved, the sweep outlines, or
paths, move as well. Other features or solid bodies sharing those sweep outlines
are also moved.
Undo Last cancels any immediately preceding transform operation. Use Undo
Last after a transformation via Move, Copy, or Multiple Copies. Undo Last
remains available until you choose Reselect Objects.
Translate
Scale
This option affects the size of an object and the distance between the object
and its reference point. A nonĆuniform scale method may be specified with the
values relative to the WCS..
Reference
Point
Reference
Point
Reference
Point
Reference
Point
Scale Factor=1/2
ZC ZC
YC YC
XC Scale Factors
XC
Before XC Scale = .75
YC Scale = .5 After
ZC Scale = 1.25
If you wish to nonĆuniform scale a solid body containing analytic surfaces, first
convert those sheet bodies into bĆsurfaces using the Convert function, then sew
them together into a new solid body valid for nonĆuniform scaling.
With the NonĆUniform Scale method, Undo Last is available even if the
rescaled object had been converted to a different kind of object.
Arc Spline
ÉÉÉÉÉÉ ÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ
ÉÉÉÉÉÉ ÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ
YC
ÉÉÉÉÉÉ
ÉÉÉÉÉÉ
YC ÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ
ÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ
ZC XC Scale Factors XC
ZC
Before After
XC Scale = 1.35
YC Scale = 1.02
ZC Scale = 1.00
When an object is transformed into a different type, some or all of the original
object data may be lost (for example, attributes, view modifications, drafting
objects, dimensions, tool paths, and offset sheet bodies). Subdivisions may not
be used in NonĆUniform Scale.
Use this option to move objects around a line parallel to the ZC axis, and
passing through a specified reference point. A positive rotation direction is
counterclockwise. After the reference point for rotation has been selected, a
rotation and angle dialog box displays.
The figure below illustrates Rotation About a Point, with multiple copies.
Reference Point
ZC
YC
XC
Line Parallel To ZC
Transformed Object
YC
ZC XC
This option allows objects to be moved around a reference line which is not
necessarily parallel to the ZC axis. Three options are available for line
selection: Two Points, Existing Line, and Point and Vector.
The figure below illustrates an example of Rotate About a Line, multiple copies.
Original Hole
Reference
Point
Y
Number Of Copies: 7
Rotation Angle: 315
Reference Point: Arc Center X
For swept solids using explicit curves that have common geometrical subsets,
the use of Mirror Through a Line and Mirror Through a Plane can save users
considerable creation time.
Consider the example below, which shows a combination of Offset Curves and
curves Mirrored Through a Line:
Associative Offset
Curves
No Associativity
(Not Mirrored)
TIP Careful consideration of the curves used as parents for the Offset
Curves is necessary. Remember, except for the offset distance, editing
of the Offset Curves is accomplished only by editing the parents. The
Offset Curves are handled as a complete set. Also, note that the circle
and arc at the bottom were not mirrored, but the lines at the top
were.
Summary
The Transform dialog is very usefull when you are working with
curves.
This lesson introduced:
• Translating .
• Scaling.
• Rotating.
• Mirroring .