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CADKEY
19Product Enhancements
This document highlights all the new functionality in CADKEY 19,
DRAFT-PAK 19, CADKEY PARAMETRICS 19, and the CDEs Smart Layout,
FileManager, Dimension Wizard, PlotDate, CKTools and PlotFast for
Windows.
This information is also included in the "What's New" section of
the help filesfor each product.
CADKEY Corporation
33 Boston Post Rd. West
Marlborough, MA 01752 USA
PH (508) 229-2020 FX (508) 229-2121
www.cadkey.com
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Copyright and Trademark Notice
CADKEY 19
Copyright 2000 CADKEY Corporation All Rights Reserved
CADKEY Corporation33 Boston Post Road WestMarlborough MA, 01752
USATel : (508) 229-2020Fax: (508) 229-2121
This documentation may not be reproduced in any form, for any
purpose, unless itcomplies with the terms presented in the CADKEY
Corporation Software LicenseAgreement.
CADKEY Corporation and the program authors have no liability or
responsibility to thepurchaser or any other person or entity with
respect to liability, loss or damagecaused, or alleged to be caused
either directly or indirectly by this software, includingbut not
limited to, any interruption of service, loss of business or
anticipatory profits orconsequential damages resulting from the use
or operation of this software.
Updates will be made to this documentation periodically and
incorporated in futureeditions.
CADKEY is a registered trademark of CADKEY Corporation.
ACIS is a registered trademark of SPATIAL TECHNOLOGY INC.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, and Windows are trademarks or registered
trademarks ofMicrosoft Corp.Wintab is a trademark of
LCS/Telegraphics.SOFT ENGINE is a trademark of Vibrant Graphics,
Inc.
OpenGL is a trademark of Silicon Graphics, Inc.
MS-DOS is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corp.
Pentium is a trademark of Intel, Corp.
DXF is a trademark of Autodesk, Inc.Portions copyright OpenDWG
Alliance. All rights reserved.
All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respectiveowners.
Final November, 2000
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Table of Contents
Introduction..........................................................................................................................1CADKEY
Core
Enhancements.............................................................................................2Zoom...................................................................................................................................3
Zoom
In...................................................................................................................3Zoom
Out................................................................................................................3
Rotate
Part...........................................................................................................................4Rotate
Part
Dynamic.................................................................................................4Rotate
Up.................................................................................................................4Rotate
Down............................................................................................................5Rotate
Left...............................................................................................................5Rotate
Right.............................................................................................................5Rotate
Clockwise.....................................................................................................5Rotate
Counterclockwise..........................................................................................5
Pan......................................................................................................................................6Pan
Window.............................................................................................................6Pan
Up.....................................................................................................................6Pan
Down................................................................................................................7Pan
Left...................................................................................................................7Pan
Right.................................................................................................................7
Arc.......................................................................................................................................8Arc
by
Offset...........................................................................................................8
Point..................................................................................................................................10Mid-Point...............................................................................................................10
Ellipse................................................................................................................................11Ellipse
by Outer
Axes.............................................................................................11Ellipse
by Inner
Axes.............................................................................................12
Rectangle...........................................................................................................................13Using
Corners and Rounded
Corners.......................................................................14Using
Width/Height and Rounded
Width/Height.....................................................14Using
Anchor and Rounded
Anchor........................................................................14
DWG/DXF AutoCAD 2000
Support...................................................................................16Supported
Versions................................................................................................16
Solid
Enhancements...........................................................................................................18Blend
Edges and Vertexes of a
Solid...................................................................................19
Variable Radius Edge
Blending..............................................................................20Body
Warping
Commands..................................................................................................27
Twist.....................................................................................................................27Stretch...................................................................................................................29
Create Shell from
Solid......................................................................................................33Shelling
Inward/Outward........................................................................................33Multi-Offset
Shelling..............................................................................................34
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Introduction
2 CADKEY 19
Use of Multiple
Profiles......................................................................................................37DRAFT-PAK
Enhancements..............................................................................................39Feature
Setup.....................................................................................................................40Creating
a Structural
Shape.................................................................................................41Spring................................................................................................................................42Parametrics
Enhancements.................................................................................................43Features.............................................................................................................................44
Draft......................................................................................................................44Multiple
Loops...................................................................................................................48CADKEY
CDEs
Added......................................................................................................49Smart
Layout......................................................................................................................50
Create
Layout.........................................................................................................50Modify
Layout.......................................................................................................51Load
Pattern...........................................................................................................52M/L
Copy..............................................................................................................52Setting...................................................................................................................53About.....................................................................................................................53Help.......................................................................................................................53
Part File
Manager...............................................................................................................54Open
Part
File........................................................................................................54Save
Part
File.........................................................................................................55Search
Part
File......................................................................................................59About.....................................................................................................................62Help.......................................................................................................................62
Dimension
Wizard..............................................................................................................63Automatic
Dimensioning........................................................................................63Configuration
Settings............................................................................................64Dimension
Merge...................................................................................................70Reassociate
Dimension...........................................................................................71Help.......................................................................................................................71Info........................................................................................................................71
PlotDate.............................................................................................................................72Application
Menu
Functions...................................................................................72
CKTools............................................................................................................................76Create
Tools.......................................................................................................................77
LINANGLE
...........................................................................................................77L-COORDS...........................................................................................................78O-LINES................................................................................................................78PARLINE
..............................................................................................................78TANANG
..............................................................................................................79PARARC...............................................................................................................79ALONGAX............................................................................................................79BOLTCIRC............................................................................................................81MIDPOINT............................................................................................................82
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Zoom In
Enhancements 3
P-COORDS............................................................................................................83CUBIC...................................................................................................................83PARSPL................................................................................................................83SPIRALS...............................................................................................................84
Detail
Tools.......................................................................................................................85ACTDIM
...............................................................................................................85BALLOONS..........................................................................................................92CNTRLINE............................................................................................................93COORDS...............................................................................................................94NOTEPATH..........................................................................................................95NOTES..................................................................................................................95SETTEXT..............................................................................................................96TABLES................................................................................................................97VALIDATE
...........................................................................................................97
Modify
Tools.....................................................................................................................99PTRIM...................................................................................................................99KINK
.....................................................................................................................99MOVEND............................................................................................................100ARCEDIT............................................................................................................100JOIN
....................................................................................................................101EXPLODE...........................................................................................................101ALIGN
................................................................................................................102OFFSET..............................................................................................................102TUBES................................................................................................................103
Utility
Tools.....................................................................................................................104CLEAR................................................................................................................104COUNT...............................................................................................................104HOLESIZE..........................................................................................................104MASK
.................................................................................................................105SAMEAS.............................................................................................................105PAN.....................................................................................................................105SCROLL..............................................................................................................105SHOW.................................................................................................................106D-LAST...............................................................................................................106V-COORDS.........................................................................................................107
PlotFast for
Windows.......................................................................................................108Install
and
Setup...................................................................................................108Generic
Driver
Installation....................................................................................110PlotFast
Configurations........................................................................................111PlotFast
Dialog
Box.............................................................................................113Drag
and Drop
Capabilities...................................................................................116Plotting
in
PlotFast...............................................................................................116
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Introduction
CADKEY 19 incorporates changes to the core product, Solids,
Parametrics and DRAFT-PAK.CADKEY 19 also contains some additional
CDE utilities such as Smart Layout, Part FileManager, Dimension
Wizard, PlotFast for Windows, PlotDate, and CK Tools.
See the README.TXT file on the root directory of the CADKEY 19
CD (alsocopied to the root directory of CADKEY once it is installed
on your harddrive) for any last minute updates to this
documentation.
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CADKEY Core Enhancements
2 CADKEY 19
CADKEY Core Enhancements
View Control Functionsn Zoom
n Pan
n Rotate
New Creation functionsn Create Ellipse Function Group
n Create Ellipse by outer axes
n Create Ellipse by inner axes
n Create Arc by Offset
n Create Mid-Point
n Rectangle by Lines function is enhanced to have two new
components:
n Rounded rectangle.
n Anchored rectangle.
Data Exchangen Support for AutoCAD 2000 files
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Zoom In
Enhancements 3
Zoom
Controls the display scale. Zoom options change only the
appearance of the part, not the part data.
When you choose Zoom from the View Menu, the following options
appear:
Zoom InZoom In multiplies the scale by 110%.
Zoom OutZoom Out multiplies the scale by (1 / 1.10 =90.909090%).
This guarantees that hitting ZoomIn and then Zoom Out will return
you to the same scale.
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Rotate Part
4 CADKEY 19
Rotate Part
Rotate Part DynamicDynamically rotates your part in the active
viewport. Note that you are actually rotating theviewpoint, not the
actual orientation of the model in world space.
Multiple click and drag operations can be performed while
rotating the part.
1. Choose Rotate Part>Rotate Part Dynamic from the Menu bar
or click the icon (left)on the toolbar.
2. Indicate a rotation center point for the part using the
standard Position Menuoptions.
3. Click on the screen with the left mouse button and drag to
dynamically move thepart with the cursor.
4. Release the mouse button when the part is in the position you
want. You cancontinue to dynamically move the part until you choose
ACCEPT.
5. Choose ACCEPT to accept the defined view.
Rotate UpThis function rotates the viewport up along a
horizontal axis through the center of the view by10 degrees each
time the function is invoked.
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Rotate Down
Enhancements 5
Rotate DownThis function rotates the viewport down along a
horizontal axis through the center of the viewby 10 degrees each
time the function is invoked.
Rotate LeftThis function rotates the viewport left along a
vertical axis through the center of the view by10 degrees each time
the function is invoked.
Rotate RightThis function rotates the viewport right along a
vertical axis through the center of the view by10 degrees each time
the function is invoked.
Rotate ClockwiseThis function rotates the viewport clockwise
perpendicular to the view by 10 degrees eachtime the function is
invoked.
Rotate CounterclockwiseThis function rotates the viewport
counterclockwise perpendicular to the view by 10 degreeseach time
the function is invoked.
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Pan
6 CADKEY 19
Pan
Pan Window Redefines the center of a viewport. This option does
not alter coordinate data. Pan is modalor repetitive which means
that while selecting entities you can continuously pan to get a
betterview of your part.
1. Choose Pan from the View Menu.
2. If working with multiple viewports, choose the viewport to
pan. A highlighted rectangleor square matching the selected
viewport appears on screen. Your cursor is the center ofthe
highlighted viewport. The highlighted viewport moves dynamically
with cursormovements.
3. Move the cursor until the part is in the area of the
highlighted viewport you want.
4. Click the left mouse button once.
The part moves to the indicated position. The highlighted
viewport remains on screen forfurther panning.
5. Choose [Esc] to stop panning.
Pan UpWhen panning up the object moves up the screen by 5% each
time you invoke the function.
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Pan Down
Enhancements 7
Pan DownWhen panning down the object moves down the screen by 5%
each time you invoke thefunction.
Pan LeftWhen panning left the object moves to the left of the
screen by 5% each time you invoke thefunction.
Pan RightWhen panning right the object moves to the right of the
screen by 5% each time you invokethe function.
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Arc
8 CADKEY 19
Arc
To create an arc, choose Arc from the Create Menu. The Arc
options appear.
CADKEY measures positive angles counterclockwise from the start
to the endangle. Start and end arc angles can be negative or
positive.
In 2D construction mode, CADKEY creates the arc and projects the
center andedge points to the current construction plane.
In 3D construction mode, CADKEY locates a plane that is parallel
to the currentconstruction plane and that passes through the center
point. It projects the edgepoint to the plane and creates the arc
in the plane.
Arc by OffsetThis allows you to create an arc (or circle) offset
from a selected arc. The new arc will havethe same start and end
angle as the original arc (or circle).
The radius of the new arc can be determined in two ways. The
first is by giving a distance,and choosing a side of the arc to
offset by that distance. The second is by choosing a pointthat the
new arc will pass through.
If you choose a distance that is greater than the radius of the
arc, and then choose the innerside of the arc, an error will be
given, and no arc will be created.
Arc created by distance
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Arc by Offset
Enhancements 9
Note that the through-point selection does not have to be one
that liesbetween the start and end angle of the arc.
Arc created by point
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Point
10 CADKEY 19
Point
Choose Point from the Create Menu. The Point options appear:
The display size of points is dependant on the Graphics Marker
setting in the Display tabof the "Default Options" dialog box
(accessible by selecting Tools, Options from theMenu bar). After
changing this setting, you should regenerate your drawing to update
thepoint size display.
Mid-PointGiven two positions, this function will create a new
point that is halfwaybetween them.
In 3D construction, any two points form a line. The mid-point is
the center of this line. Thisis not true when 2D construction is
employed. When 2D construction is used, the mid-pointwill be placed
on the CPlane and depth currently set.
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Ellipse by Outer Axes
Enhancements 11
Ellipse
An ellipse is a set of points within a plane where the sum of
the distance between one fixedpoint to any two other fixed points
is constant. There are three ways to create an ellipse: byValues
and Outer or Inner Axes.
The two new additions are Ellipse by Outer Axes and Ellipse by
Inner Axes.
Ellipse by Outer AxesCreates an elliptical arc by selecting
three points that represent the major axes of a rectangle.An
ellipse is then created that is bounded by that rectangle.
1. Select Ellipse by Outer Axes from the Ellipse submenu.
2. Indicate the origin of the ellipse using one of the Position
Menu options.
3. Indicate the major axis point.
The major axis is the absolute distance from the origin point to
the X axis point.
4. Indicate the minor axis point.
The minor axis is the absolute distance from the origin point to
the Y axis point.
5. You will then be prompted for the start angle (default 0
degrees) and end angle(default 360 degrees) of the ellipse.
CADKEY projects the origin to the current construction plane,
and creates theelliptical arc in the current construction view, at
the current depth.
Ellipse by Outer Axes
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Ellipse
12 CADKEY 19
Ellipse by Inner AxesCreates an elliptical arc by selecting two
points that represent the position and magnitude ofthe major axis.
Then select two points that represent the position and magnitude of
the minoraxis. An ellipse is created that is centered on the
intersection of the two axes, and orientedwith the major axis.
1. Select Ellipse by Inner Axes from the Ellipse submenu.
2. Indicate the origin of the ellipse using one of the Position
Menu options.
3. Indicate the major axis point.
The major axis is the absolute distance from the origin point to
the X axis point.
4. Indicate the minor axis point.
The minor axis is the absolute distance from the origin point to
the Y axis point.
5. You will then be prompted for the start angle (default 0
degrees) and end angle(default 360 degrees) of the ellipse.
CADKEY projects the origin to the current construction plane,
and creates theelliptical arc in the current construction view, at
the current depth.
Ellipse by Outer Axes
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Ellipse by Inner Axes
Enhancements 13
Rectangle
Creates a rectangle with entered values for the width and
height, or with indicated positions for twocorners of the
rectangle. You can create three different types of rectangles:
Line
Polyline
Polygon
In 2D construction mode, CADKEY creates the rectangle and
projects the reference point to the currentconstruction plane. In
3D construction mode, CADKEY creates the rectangle in the plane
that is parallelto the construction plane and passes through the
indicated reference position.
When creating rectangles keep these things in mind:
n The line rectangle has four separate line entities. Select
each entity to make changes tothe whole rectangle.
n The current depth must stay the same once you designate a
position.
n CADKEY does not fill the corners of a line rectangle when you
select line widths greaterthan one.
To make a rectangle of lines follow these steps:
1. Choose Rectangle from the Create options.
2. Choose the rectangle creation type:
n Corners - Creates a rectangle with indicated positions for two
opposite corners.
n Width/Height - Creates a rectangle with specified values for
the width and height,and an indicated position for the lower-left
corner.
n Anchor - Previously when creating rectangles they were
automatically anchored bythe lower-left corner. Now you have the
option of 9 placement points to anchor therectangle. This option
creates a rectangle with specified values for the width andheight
and an indicated position for the anchor point of the
rectangle.
n Rounded Rectangle by Corners- Creates a rectangle with
indicated positions for twoopposite corners with filleted
corners.
n Rounded Rectangle by Width/Height - Creates a rectangle with
filleted corners withspecified values for the width and height and
an indicated position for the lower-leftcorner.
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Rectangle
14 CADKEY 19
n Rounded Rectangle Anchor - Creates a rectangle with filleted
corners with specifiedvalues for the width and height and an
indicated position for the anchor point of therectangle.
The Rounded Corners options do not apply to polyline and
polygonrectangles, only line rectangles.
Using Corners and Rounded Corners1. Choose Corners or RCorner
from the rectangle options.
2. If using RCorner enter the fillet radius for the corners.
3. Using your mouse, left click to indicate a position for one
corner of the rectangle.
A rubberband box connects to the cursor to dynamically display
the shape of therectangle as you create it.
4. Click and drag your mouse to indicate a position for the
diagonally opposite corner of therectangle.
5. When you create a Polygon Rectangle, choose Outline or Filled
to create an outlined orfilled rectangle.
6. When filling, choose a color to fill the rectangle from the
Color Selection dialog box.If you outline the rectangle, it is
outlined in the current color.
CADKEY creates the rectangle. CADKEY always creates the
rectangle in the currentconstruction plane.
Using Width/Height and Rounded Width/Height1. Choose Wid/Ht or
RWd/Ht from the rectangle options.
2. If using RWd/Ht enter the fillet radius for the corners.
3. Enter the width and height of the rectangle.
4. When you create a Polygon Rectangle (by Wid/Ht only), choose
OutLine or Filled tocreate an outlined or filled rectangle.
5. When filling, choose a color to fill the rectangle from the
Color Selection dialog box.If you outline the rectangle, it is
outlined in the current color.
6. Using your left mouse button, indicate a position for the
lower-left corner of therectangle.
Using Anchor and Rounded Anchor1. Choose Anchor or RAnchor from
the rectangle options.
2. Choose one of the Anchoring methods available:
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Using Anchor and Rounded Anchor
Enhancements 15
n UprLft (Upper Left) - Places the rectangle by the upper left
corner.
n CntLft (Center Left) - Places the rectangle by the center
point of the left line.
n LwrLft (Lower Left) - Places the rectangle by the lower left
corner.
n UprCnt (Upper Center) - Places the rectangle by the upper
center point of the topline.
n CntCnt (Center Center) - Places the rectangle by the center of
the rectangle itself.
n LwrCnt (Lower Center) - Places the rectangle by the lower
center point of thebottom line.
n UptRgt (Upper Right) - Places the rectangle by the upper right
corner.
n CntRgt (Center Right) - Places the rectangle by the center
point of the right line.
n LwrRgt (Lower Right) - Places the rectangle by the lower right
corner.
3. If using RAnchor enter the fillet radius for the corners.
4. Enter the width and height of the rectangle.
5. Using your left mouse button, indicate a position for the
specified anchor of the rectangle.
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DWG/DXF AutoCAD 2000 Support
16 CADKEY 19
DWG/DXF AutoCAD 2000 Support
Supported VersionsThe DWG/DXF translator supports the following
versions of CADKEY and AutoCAD:
n You can import drawings created with AutoCAD Release 10, 11,
12, 13, 14 and 2000into CADKEY 19.
n You can export CADKEY part files into AutoCAD Release 10, 11,
12, 13, 14 and 2000.
n You can import AutoCAD DWG or DXF files, work with them in
CADKEY asAutoCAD entities and then export them to AutoCAD.
Supported EntitiesThe following additional AutoCAD entity types
are now supported in CADKEY.
AutoCAD Entity Imported into CADKEY as:
Dimension The translator supports linear, circular (radial and
diametric),aligned, and ordinate dimensions. It skips associated
blocks.The translator supports all attached attributes, as well as
somespecial characters in the text, such as +/-, , and the radius
ordiameter symbol.
It defaults as converting the AutoCAD dimension entity into
aCADKEY Gendim collective.
Spline Entity CADKEY Spline entity.
Entities Not SupportedThe following additional AutoCAD entity
types are not supported in CADKEY.
Entity Type AutoCAD Entity Name
Solid 3D AD_ENT_SOLID3D
Body AD_ENT_BODY
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Supported Versions
Enhancements 17
When importing DWG and DXF files, a progress message window is
now provided formonitoring the translation process.
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Solid Enhancements
18 CADKEY 19
Solid Enhancements
Blending Enhancementsn Blend Interference Checking
Variable Radius Enhancements
n Constant Width Blend
n Rotated Ellipse
n Constant Radius
Body Warping Commands category addedn Bend
n Twist
n Stretch
Shellingn Multi-offset shelling
n Shelling inward/outward
n Create Lip
Multiple Profiles
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Supported Versions
Enhancements 19
Blend Edges and Vertexes of a Solid
Solid blending is currently separated by blend functionality
into four categories available through atabbed dialog. The options
are:
n Vertex Blending
n Constant Radius Edge Blending
n Variable Radius Edge Blending
n Face Blends
The four categories of blending are covered in the following
sections.
All four blend types support Blend interference checking. A
blend interference checkbox appears on allthe tabs. It can be
enabled/disabled in the dialog separately for each blend
option.
Allow for blend interference checking enables CADKEY to check
for features that might interfere withthe path of the blend surface
and allows the blend to complete properly despite the interference.
Aninterference such as a hole, protrusion or other geometric
feature normally would cause the blend to failor to complete but
cause a self-intersecting solid. Enabling this checkbox prevents
self-intersectionsfrom occurring and allows the blend to complete
properly.
Interference checking is performing additional calculations in
the background sonote that when it is enabled the blending process
will be slower than blendingwithout interference checking.
For example, if interference checking is not enabled if a blend
is placed in such a way that the blend facewill partially intersect
a protrusion/hole, then the protrusion/hole is inappropriately
blended. If the blendcompletely covers the area taken up by the
protrusion/hole, then that protrusion/hole will be deleted.Enabling
blend interference checking allows the blend to blend around the
protrusion/hole.
Before Blend
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Blend Edges and Vertexes of a Solid
20 CADKEY 19
Blend with interference checking turned off
Blend with interference checking turned on
In the example above with interference checking turned off, the
protruding section is swallowed by theblend. But with interference
checking on, the blend and the protrusion are properly trimmed to
eachother.
To get a better understanding of how blend interference checking
affects your models try this example.Create a 10 x 5 x 2 block and
shell it by a thickness of .2. Blend an outer edge by 1.0, the
result is aself-intersecting body. If the blend interference
checking is enabled, then this intersection will bedetected and
blended appropriately.
In CADKEY 19 there have been additional options added to the
Variable Radius Edge Blending. Seedetails to follow.
Variable Radius Edge BlendingThis option blends the edges of a
solid with a variable radius. Some of the options in this tab are
for thebenefit of designers who want non-exact methods of changing
the shape of blends. They will be usefulfor designing parts for
which the shape is mostly aesthetic.
There are six types of variable radius blending as listed below.
The three new options constant radius,constant width and rotated
ellipse are discussed in detail below.
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Variable Radius Edge Blending
Enhancements 21
n Constant Radius - This option creates a blend that has a
constant radius, but whose crosssection could be non-circular
through the use of thumb weights.
n Constant Width - This blend allows you to enter a width that
specifies the distancebetween the edges of the blend.
n Rotated Ellipse - This option will create a blend whose cross
section is elliptical.
n Start and End - The blend radius is computed as a linear taper
from starting value toending value of the edge sequence to be
blended.
n Point/Radius Pairs - The blend radius is computed as a
function of a smooth curve joininga sequence of points whose radii
are provided at certain points along the edge to beblended.
n 2D Spline Function - The blend radius is computed as a
function of a 2D curve lying onthe X-Y plane centered about the
origin. The value along the Y axis represents theradius, while the
value along the X axis represents the length along the edge to
beblended.
The cross sectional shape options are available for all Variable
Radius Edge Blends exceptRotated Ellipses. The cross sectional
shapes may be varied from circular (the default) to anon-circular
spline shape. The default value of 1.0 produces a circular cross
section.When the thumb weight values are increased from 1.0, the
blend tends to bunch up andwhen the values are reduced below 1.0,
the blend flattens out.
Thumb weighted geometry is constructed of splines. Note this
differs from other blendtypes that are composed of arcs.
Thumb weights are entirely for aesthetics. When working with
thumbweights there will be a lot of trial and error. There is no
way to get an exactdesired shape, only an approximate shape can be
obtained. You will needto adjust the numbers until you achieve the
results you want.
When entering thumb weight values keep in mind that as the thumb
weight valueapproaches infinity, the cross section tends to a sharp
corner. As it approaches zero, ittends towards a pure chamfer. The
highest (1,000,000) and lowest (1e-9) thumb weightvalues indicate
the maximum stretching or squeezing of the cross sectional
shape.
Thumb weight values affect the shape of the cross section. Think
of it this way. Put yourthumbs on the edge of the blend and apply
some pressure to "squeeze or push" the blendcross section. Entering
thumb weight values less than 1.0 has the reverse effect. Yourthumb
"pulls or stretches" the blend cross section and flattens it
out.
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Blend Edges and Vertexes of a Solid
22 CADKEY 19
Thumb weights = 4.0 Thumb weights = 0.4
Three checkboxes appear at the bottom of the dialog for all
options:
When you wish Solids to also blend connected edges that continue
smoothly (no abruptchange in tangent) from the selected edges,
select the Blend along smooth edges checkbox.
Preview the blend allows you to preview the proposed blend
surface geometry prior toapplying the changes to the model. Preview
blends are computed and drawn quickly in theCADKEY rubberband
color. Blend preview surfaces are approximations of the
actualresulting blend surfaces so they may not be drawn as
precisely as the final outcome.
When previewing the blend, you may use immediate mode commands
todynamically pan, zoom and rotate the model in order to view the
previewsurfaces from any angle.
Allow for blend interference checking enables CADKEY to check
for features that mightinterfere with the path of the blend surface
and allows the blend to complete properly despitethe interference.
Interference's such as holes, protrusions or other geometric
features normallywould cause the blend to fail or to complete but
cause a self-intersecting solid. Enabling thischeckbox prevents
self-intersections from occurring and allows the blend to
completeproperly.
-
Variable Radius Edge Blending
Enhancements 23
Three checkboxes appear at the bottom of the dialog for all
options:
When you wish Solids to also blend connected edges that continue
smoothly (no abrupt change intangent) from the selected edges,
select the Blend along smooth edges checkbox.
Preview the blend allows you to preview the proposed blend
surface geometry prior to applying thechanges to the model. Preview
blends are computed and drawn quickly in the CADKEY
rubberbandcolor. Blend preview surfaces are approximations of the
actual resulting blend surfaces so they may notbe drawn as
precisely as the final outcome.
When previewing the blend, you may use immediate mode commands
todynamically pan, zoom and rotate the model in order to view the
previewsurfaces from any angle.
Allow for blend interference checking enables CADKEY to check
for features that might interfere withthe path of the blend surface
and allows the blend to complete properly despite the
interference.
Constant RadiusThis blend allows for the radius to be constant
with a circular cross section or have a constantradius but at the
same time have a non-circular cross section through the use of
thumbweights.
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Blend Edges and Vertexes of a Solid
24 CADKEY 19
Note that this constant radius blend is not exactly the same as
doing anormal constant radius blend. If you want a pure circular
constant radiusblend then use the Constant Radius Blend tab in the
dialog box.
Constant WidthWith this blend you can specify a width which will
specify the distance between the edges ofthe blend. It allows for
the width or the distance between the edges of the blend surface
toremain at a constant width. The radius values are calculated to
maintain the desired width.
The width of a constant radius blend changes if the two faces
are not perpendicular and theblended edge is not perpendicular to
the next edge. This will not happen with a variable radiusconstant
width blend.
In the examples below, when the edge of the solid is blended
with a constant 2 inch radiusblend, the width of the blend varies
with the angle of the faces in contrast with the 2 inchconstant
width blend.
-
Variable Radius Edge Blending
Enhancements 25
Before Blend 2 inch constant radius blend
2 inch constant width blend
Rotated EllipseThis option will create a blend whose cross
section is elliptical. The major and minor axisvalues you enter in
the dialog will determine the shape of the ellipse. The angle from
normalwill specify the rotation of the ellipse, as measured from
the normal of one of the two facesadjacent to the blend edge. The
surface normals are displayed at the mid point of the edge,and you
are prompted to select the direction vector for the ellipse major
axis. Any anglespecified is measured from this vector.
-
Blend Edges and Vertexes of a Solid
26 CADKEY 19
Surface normals are displayed
The edge is blended with an elliptical blend
-
Twist
Enhancements 27
Body Warping Commands
The body warping commands consist of bend, twist and stretch
functions. New in this version are twistand stretch. All of these
functions allow you to manipulate your solid bodies. Each one is
discussed indetail in its own section.
Bend
Twist
Stretch
TwistThis function provides the capability to twist solids,
sheet bodies and wireframe entities. Thisis ideal for modeling
parts that are manufactured in a flat condition then twisted into
finalshape.
The region of twist is defined by two points, which you must
indicate. These two pointsdefine a line that serves two purposes.
First, it defines the axis about which the twistingoccurs.
Secondly, it defines the extents of the twist region. Perpendicular
planes at each endof the line are intersected with the body being
twisted, and only the area between the planeswill be modified.
There are several options available in the Twist a Body dialog
box to assist you in thecreation of a twist. The options are:
Twist angle - Enter the angle of the twist. There is no limit to
the angle of twist. A positivetwist angle indicates the direction
of the twist, but you may specify a negative angle if youwant to
twist in the opposite direction. The two points selected to define
the axis of twist alsoindicate the direction of the "Z" axis. Use
the right-hand rule to determine the positivedirection of
twist.
Type of entities to twist - Choose to twist solid/sheet bodies
or wireframes.
-
Body Warping Commands
28 CADKEY 19
Desired continuity between twisted and untwisted sections - You
can control the degree ofcontinuity (smoothness) between the
non-twisted and twisted portions of the body. Threechoices of
continuity are available:
n G0 Positional - This ensures that the edge at the end of the
untwisted section and theedge at the beginning of the twist
meet.
n G1 Tangential - This ensures that the edge at the end of the
untwisted section istangent to the edge at the beginning of the
twist.
n G2 Curvature - This ensures that the curvature at the end of
the untwisted section isthe same as the curvature at the beginning
of the twist. This option is one level ofcontinuity higher than
tangent continuity. Curvature continuity uses a 5th
degreepolynomial as compared to the 3rd degree (cubic) used for
tangential continuity.This more naturally approximates what a real
part would do when it deforms.
Once you've made your selections in the dialog box click OK to
close the dialog.
Keep in mind that when twisting, one part stays fixed in place,
while the other side of the partrotates along with the twist. The
part of the body (if any) before the starting point of the
twistaxis is the side that remains fixed as long as the entire body
is within the twist region. If theentire body is within the twist
region then there is no part of the body before the starting
point.The part of the body (if any) after the twist's ending point
will be rotated about the axis by theamount of the twist angle.
To perform the twist:
1. You are first prompted to select the body to twist.
2. Next indicate the start point of the twist axis using one of
the Position Menu options.
3. Then indicate the end point of the twist axis. The twist is
performed.
Part before twisting
-
Stretch
Enhancements 29
After 275 degree twist. The twist region starts at the
centerline of the first hole and ends at the tip.
StretchThe stretch command provides the capability to stretch a
part along an axis for a givendistance, and also to compress or
squeeze a part together in a similar manner. The stretchcommand is
very much like a Local Operation in the editing effects that it
provides.
Solids, sheets and wireframe entities can all be stretched and
squeezed. You must indicatetwo points that define the stretch
region. Perpendicular planes at each end of the line areintersected
with the body and only that region between the planes will be
modified. You canthink of the body as being clamped at these two
planes and then stretched to the left or rightsides as desired. The
left side of the stretch is defined where the first point is
indicated.
Stretch may also be applied to the left and right sides
independently. This means that in a leftend stretch, the left end
moves, but the right end does not. Think of it as holding the
bodywith both hands. Each hand is located at the ends of the
stretch axis. If you hold your righthand fixed then pull to the
left with your left hand, this is a left hand stretch (zero stretch
to theright and positive stretch to the left). You can stretch to
the left only, right only or somecombination of both and the amount
stretched left to right can differ.
Stretch will create law surfaces when the geometry of the
stretch requires it, but it will alsomaintain simple analytic
geometry whenever possible. Law surfaces are one of the
many"spline" surface types in ACIS. Law surfaces would be created
anytime the stretch was donein such a way that the geometry was no
longer a simple definition.
A law surface can be identified by using the Verify>Entity
Info>Examine a Face function.Select the face to verify and a
dialog box will come up stating "This face type is:
lawsur-spline."
For example, if you stretch a cylinder using the centerline of
the cylinder as the stretch axis,then the geometry of the cylinder
doesn't really change. It just gets longer and the analyticcylinder
is preserved with no need for a law surface. But if you use a
stretch axis that runs atan angle to the centerline, then you
create a different shape that most likely requires a lawsurface to
be built.
-
Body Warping Commands
30 CADKEY 19
There are options available in the Stretch a Body dialog box to
assist you in the creation of astretched or squeezed body. The
options are:
Stretch to the left - Enter a value to stretch or squeeze the
left side of the body. The value youenter will indicate how far the
body will be stretched to the left. When positive values areentered
the body is stretched. When negative values are entered the body is
squeezed.
Stretch to the right - Enter a value to stretch or squeeze the
right side of the body. The valueyou enter will indicate how far
the body will be stretched to the right. When positive valuesare
entered the body is stretched. When negative values are entered the
body is squeezed.
For example, if the left stretch value is one and the right
stretch value is one, then the bodywill be stretched for a total of
2 inches, one inch to the left and one inch to the right.
Types of entities to stretch - Choose to stretch solid/sheet
bodies or wireframe entities.
Once you've made your selections in the dialog box click OK to
close the dialog.
To perform a stretch:
1. You are first prompted to select the body to stretch.
2. Next indicate the start point of the stretch region using one
of the Position Menuoptions.
3. Then indicate the end point of the stretch region. The
stretch or squeeze isperformed.
The only region of the body that will be affected by the stretch
is defined by the part of thebody contained within two planes
perpendicular to each end of the stretch axis.
-
Stretch
Enhancements 31
Manifold part before stretching
Manifold after stretching 3 inches
-
Body Warping Commands
32 CADKEY 19
Collar part before stretch
Collar part after stretching 1 inch up in Z direction
Collar after squeezing .25 inches down in Z direction
-
Shelling Inward/Outward
Enhancements 33
Create Shell from Solid
Use this local edit function to transform a solid body into a
body which represents the walls of theoriginal body with at least
one face left open. Enable the checkbox to Select the faces to be
opened inthe dialog box.
Shelling Inward/OutwardShelling inward and outward at the same
time is possible. Note that only positive values can be enteredfor
the shell thickness in the dialog box.
The options available in the dialog box are:
Shell Inward - If this checkbox is enabled, the wall will be
shelled inward at the offset value youspecify.
Shell Outward - If this checkbox is enabled, the wall will be
shelled outward at the offset value youspecify.
Select faces to be opened - If this checkbox is enabled, you
will be prompted in the Conversation bar forthe faces to leave
open. If this box is disabled, the shell will be a closed body with
an internal void. Toleave at least one face open when creating the
shell, enable this checkbox (4).
Create lip around opened faces - This checkbox is only available
when you have selected to leave facesopen. This option will create
a 'lip' around the open faces of the shell. The lip width and
thickness canbe specified separately. The lip width is measured
along the bottom or overhang of the lip. The lipthickness is the
height of the lip, measured perpendicular to the open faces.
-
Create Shell from Solid
34 CADKEY 19
The oil pan above was created using a shell hollowed inward at
an offset of .375 and offsetting theinner faces outward to create
the lip around the open faces with a wall thickness of .05.
Multi-Offset ShellingIndividual faces may have different offset
values applied to them, allowing for different wall thicknessin the
shelled part. This will be enabled when the Select faces for
specific offsets checkbox is enabled.You will prompted to select
each face and enter a thickness in the Conversation bar. Inward
andoutward offsets may be specified for different faces by entering
negative and positive values,respectively.
When shelling a part, you can hit [Esc] to interrupt the
operation.
When applying different offset values for individual faces,
those faces which are smoothly connected toone another (e.g.
blended faces), should have the same offset value. This is because
the offsettingalgorithm will probably fail to re-intersect the
offset faces. Faces that join with sharp intersections aregood
candidates for multi-offset shelling because they will reliably
intersect.
When specifying specific offset values, you will be prompted to
indicate a face, then enter an offsetvalue on the prompt line. A
positive value indicates an inward offset, and a negative value
indicates anoutward offset. Faces are offset the default amount
(.2) if they are not specified explicitly in the dialogbox.
-
Multi-Offset Shelling
Enhancements 35
Before shelling
After shelling .2 inches inward and offsetting inward faces
outward .1 inches creatinga lip around the opened top and side
faces.
-
Create Shell from Solid
36 CADKEY 19
A different view of the same part
-
Multi-Offset Shelling
Enhancements 37
Use of Multiple Profiles
Extrusions, Sweeps, Revolves and Planar Boundary Surfaces now
support the use of multiple profiles.
The following sections have been added to the existing
documentation.
After clicking OK in the dialog box, you will be allowed to
select the individual curves that comprisethe closed planar
profile. The following rules apply:
n All curves must be lines, arcs, conics, or splines.
n The order of selection is unimportant.
n The entire set must represent closed curves.
n The entire set must lie on a plane
n Multiple closed co-planar profiles may be chosen in one
operation.
When choosing multiple profiles keep in mind that:
n Overlapping and intersecting profiles are automatically
trimmed to one another.
n Profiles that are intended to be holes within a larger outer
profile are automaticallydetected and cut away.
n Non intersecting profiles that do not satisfy the above two
conditions will result in onebody with multiple lumps. If "n" such
non-intersecting closed profiles are selected, onebody with "n"
lumps will be created.
Case 1: Overlapping profiles are trimmed to one another
Case 2: Profiles intended to be holes in a larger profile are
cut away
-
Use of Multiple Profiles
38 CADKEY 19
Case 3: Non intersecting profiles result in one body with
multiple lumps.
-
Multi-Offset Shelling
Enhancements 39
DRAFT-PAK Enhancements
Feature Setupn CADKEY XForm>Copy operations will now maintain
DRAFT-PAK Feature data (hole
type and size) used by Autolabel and Tabular Dimension
functions.
Structural Shapesn Structural shapes dialog fields now default
to values previously entered in a session for
each type of shape
Springsn Springs with square ends can now be created as a
solid.
-
Feature Setup
40 CADKEY 19
Feature Setup
Select the Feature Setup icon from the Feature Menu or click on
the SETUP button in any feature dialogbox to bring up the Feature
Setup dialog box. The Setup options give you greater flexibility
whencreating features, allowing you to customize the features to
your drafting standards. The changes youmake to the configuration
will be reflected in the Preview windows of the feature dialog
boxes as youcreate features.
CADKEY XForm>Copy operations will now maintain DRAFT-PAK
Feature data (hole type and size)used by Autolabel and Tabular
Dimension functions. Thus the following section has been added
underUse Collectives.
n Use Collectives - Check this check box if you want the feature
geometry to be made intoa collective. Feature collectives will not
be named.
Features created as collectives will keep their copious data
with them. ThusXForm>Copied and Moved features are able to be
autolabeled. The hole list chart willreflect this. For example, a
blind, drilled, XForm>Copied hole's actual depth will bewritten
into the hole list chart instead of being listed as THRU. This
behavior affectsXForming only. Cut, Copy and Pasted features will
not keep their copious data.
Features not created as collectives have no copious data thus
they can not be autolabeled.
-
Multi-Offset Shelling
Enhancements 41
Creating a Structural Shape
Select the Struct icon from the Mech Menu. The Structural Shape
dialog box will appear. The shapeyou are creating will be displayed
in the Preview section of the dialog box.
The "Structural Shapes" dialog box will default to previous user
settings, whether using backup orinvoking the function after using
the function previously. When you change the type of the
structuralshape, the values for that type will default to the most
recent user entered values.
-
Spring
42 CADKEY 19
Spring
Select the Spring icon from the Mech Menu. The Spring dialog box
will appear. Enter theinformation about the spring in this dialog
box. Your selections will be displayed in the Previewwindow.
Select the End Conditions for the spring. The choices are:
n Plain (Side, Wire 3D and Solid)
n Squared (Side, Wire 3D and Solid)
n Plain and Ground (Side view only)
n Squared and Ground (Side view only)
Note that springs with square ends can now be created as
solids.
-
Multi-Offset Shelling
Enhancements 43
Parametrics Enhancements
Additional Feature Optionn Draft Feature
Sketch Improvementn Multiple loop profiles
-
Features
44 CADKEY 19
Features
DraftUse this function to add draft to faces of a body. You can
add draft with respect to an edge onthe face, or with respect to a
reference plane. This operation is also referred to as taper.
When you choose the Draft function from the Application Button
Window, from theParametrics pull down menu or from the Features
right click Context Sensitive Menu the"Draft Properties" dialog box
will appear.
-
Draft
Enhancements 45
The Angle field should be used to enter the value of the draft
angle.
The Faces field contains the name(s) of the face(s) selected.
Draft can be performed onmultiple faces. If you have not already
selected a face(s) to draft, click the SELECT button tochoose a
face on the solid in the currently active viewport. The name of
that face will thenappear in the display list. Use the ADD button
to allow selection of additional faces to adddraft to. Use the
DELETE button to delete a currently selected item in the list.
Note that when selecting faces you can hold down the [Ctrl] key
on thekeyboard to select multiple faces.
The SELECT, ADD and DELETE keys are described below:
Select - Discards previous list and allows complete re-selection
of items.
Add - Keeps current list and allows selection of additional
items.
Delete - Deletes currently selected item in the list.
You can add draft to faces primarily by two methods:
n With respect to a draft or reference plane
If you prefer to define the draft angle with respect to a
parametric plane entity, usethe Draft Plane option on the draft
faces dialog box. Use the SELECT button toselect the parametric
plane entity. Parametric plane entities may either be selectedby
geometry or from a list of the existing planes listed in a
dialog.
n With respect to an edge on the face selected
If you use the Edge of a face option, you will need to select
the edges that the faceswill draft about and a draft reference
vector.
The Edges of the faces field contains the name(s) of the edge(s)
selected. Click theSELECT button to choose an edge(s) on the solid
in the currently active viewport.The name(s) of that edge(s) will
then appear in the display list. Use the ADD buttonto allow
selection of additional edges. Use the DELETE button to delete a
currentlyselected item in the list. The behavior of the SELECT, ADD
and DELETE buttonsare the same as described above for face
selection.
You must make sure that each edge in the Edges of the Faces
fieldcorresponds to each face in the Faces field. For example if
there are 4faces selected to add Draft to, there must be 4 edges
selected. Face #1 inthe Faces field will attempt to Draft about
Edge #1 in the Edges of theFaces field, Face#2 about Edge #2 and so
on.
The Draft Reference Vector fields contain the I, J, K components
of the vector. Use theSELECT button to select a vector entity
created with Solids.
-
Features
46 CADKEY 19
Before
After
While the taper in the example above has caused a lot of change
to the shape of this solidbody, there has been no change to the
topology of the model. There remains the same numberof faces,
edges, and vertexes after the edit as before, and the relationship
between each pair offaces as they intersect to form the edges of
the model is also left unchanged.
Shadow DraftThis local edit function provides draft to curved
faces in a mold. It fills in gaps that are notvisible from a
specified direction.
The Shadow Draft Mold Extraction Vector fields contain the I, J,
K components of thevector. Use the SELECT button to select a vector
entity created with Solids.
-
Draft
Enhancements 47
The purpose of this operation is to remove face regions with
normals perpendicular to the draftdirection. It introduces new
ruled faces in order to remove regions from the nominated
faceswhere the draft is thought of as being in shadow from a beam
of light traveling with the draftdirection and angle. It detects
special geometry cases on spheres, cones, and tori and makes acone
or plane for the draft surface rather than a spline.
The mold extraction direction is very important as it determines
the direction on which to basethe angled silhouette curve, also
known as an iso-cline curve. An incorrect direction vectorwill not
produce the desired result.
The special silhouette curve is calculated and ruled faces are
added into the model andsurrounding faces are extended and
re-intersected with the new ruled faces. Some faces maybe swallowed
up in the process.
For the example below, a draft needs to be added to the
spherical face. The draft angle was 30degrees. The vector (0,0,1)
was used as the mold extraction factor.
Before - shows the model before the draft is performed on the
spherical face.
After - shows the model after the spherical face is tapered at
an angle of 35 degrees.
-
Multiple Loops
48 CADKEY 19
Multiple Loops
Parametrics will support multiple loops in a single sketch.
If the loops intersect with each other, Parametrics will trim
the appropriate entities to form a single outerloop before any 3D
operations are performed.
If the loops do not intersect with each other and no loop is
contained in any other loop, Parametrics willgenerate multiple
lumps for the 3D operation.
If the loops do not intersect with each other but some loops are
contained in other loops, Parametricswill generate a body with
holes in the shapes of those inner loops.
-
Draft
Enhancements 49
CADKEY CDEs Added
New CDEs added to CADKEY 19n Smart Layout
n Part File Manager
n Dimension Wizard
n PlotDate
n CKTools
n PlotFast for Windows
-
Smart Layout
50 CADKEY 19
Smart Layout
Smart Layout is a CDE based application that runs within CADKEY.
The CKLayout.CDE can beloaded through the CDE Load function in the
Application drop down menu. Or you can add it to yourautoload list
in Tools>Options>Startup. Once loaded, it can be accessed
from the Application dropdown menu or via Accelerator Keys (if
assigned). The Smart Layout functions will then appear in
theApplication Menu Window.
This CDE (CKLayout.cde) will run within CADKEY 19 and will
provide the ability to automaticallygenerate a layout in DLM
(Drawing Layout Mode).
n Create Layout
n Modify Layout
n Load Pattern
n M/L Copy
n Setting
n About
n Help
Create LayoutWhen the Create Layout button is selected the
"Smart Layout" Dialog box appears. In thisdialog box you can enter
the following information:
Layout Name - Name the layout. An error message will appear if
you try to give the layout aname that already exists. The layout
name can be a maximum of 20 characters.
Description field - Allows you to add more detailed information
about the layout. Thedescription field will accept a maximum of 40
characters.
Save Settings - This checkbox can be enabled (4) to save
settings so each layout you createwill have these same
characteristics. This switch is disabled by default. For example,
you canset your paper size to be A, with 2 instances in the upper
position, with a specific patternloaded. If the Save Settings
checkbox is enabled then these settings will remain each time
youcreate a new layout. To change the settings and not save them,
make sure to disable thecheckbox.
Paper Size - Stores a variety of standard paper sizes. The
different paper sizes can be accessedvia the drop down menu. The
paper size options cover the American standard sizes A-E,
theinternational sizes A4-A0 and Key-in for a user-defined paper
size. The selected paperdimensions in both inches and millimeters
are displayed in the windows below the drop down.The first window
is the height (X direction) and the second is the width (Y
direction).
-
Modify Layout
Enhancements 51
Load Pattern - Is a checkbox that when enabled (4) will
automatically load a pattern file intothe layout with the base
position at 0,0. The file name below the Load Pattern switch
willdisplay the name of the Pattern file being loaded.
Scale - The scale area displays the scale of the instances. If
Auto is enabled (4) the scaleratio is grayed out and the scale is
determined by the paper size that has been selected. If Autois
disabled, the fields become active and you can type in a scale.
Instances - The Instances section is where you are able to
configure/manipulate how the layoutis going to look as far as the
instance view placement. From the drop down box you can selectfrom
seventeen (17) predefined options for instance view placement.
Twelve edit fields existthat will display the numbered views
(instances) and the order in which the instances will beplaced.
These fields can be edited if the predefined selections are not
adequate.
An Add Isometric checkbox is present, which when enabled (4)
will automatically add theisometric view to all the predefined
options.
Modelize and Instance radio buttons determine if the layout is
going to be modelized orcreated as associated instances.
Modify LayoutThis function only works in Layout mode. The
Conversation bar will display a messagestating "Model mode now.
Execute in Layout mode," if the icon is selected while in
modelmode.
-
Smart Layout
52 CADKEY 19
When this function is selected the "Modify Layout" dialog box
appears. In this dialog you canchange the paper size and the scale
of the layout.
Paper allows you to change the paper size, this is reflected in
the adjustment of the paperboundary box. The fields that reflect
the paper size are grayed out and will change when anew paper size
is selected from the drop down menu. If KEY-IN has been selected
the fieldswill no longer be grayed out to accept user input for the
paper size.
Scale allows you to select a ratio from the drop down menu or
you can select KEY-IN to typein an actual scale factor for display
of the part.
Load PatternLoad Pattern will initiate the standard "Pattern
Load" dialog box from CADKEY. This willallow you to load a pattern
file into your layout. A pattern file can contain geometric
ordimensioning entities. Pattern files are like libraries of
frequently-used information that youcan retrieve and reuse in many
parts.
M/L CopyM/L Copy allows for copying geometry from Layout mode to
Model mode or visa versa. Itwill only work with Layout specific
geometry or modelized geometry when in Layout mode.This function
works both in Model mode and Layout mode.
When the function is selected the CADKEY Selection Menu appears.
Select the geometrythat you want to copy. The Position Menu appears
and you are prompted to select a baseposition. Once the base
position is selected the CADKEY window will change from Layout
toModel mode or Model to Layout mode, depending on the mode in
which the function wasinitiated. The CADKEY Position Menu appears
and you are prompted to select a baseposition to place the new
geometry.
-
Setting
Enhancements 53
SettingThe Setting function opens a dialog box that allows you
to set the level that the border (patternfile) will be placed on.
The dimension height and note height are also set here.
AboutAbout displays the version number and the copyright date of
the product.
HelpAccesses the help file.
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Part File Manager
54 CADKEY 19
Part File Manager
The CKFILEMGR.CDE can be loaded through the CDE Load function in
the Application drop downmenu. Or you can add it to your autoload
list in Tools>Options>Startup. Once loaded, it can beaccessed
from the Application drop down menu or via Accelerator Keys (if
assigned). The Part FileManager functions listed below will then
appear in the Application Menu Window.
Part File Manager manages and searches part files based on
property information. Property data is user-defined information
that is added to the part file. This allows you to add detailed
information such asscale, paper size, revision number, and material
to be saved with the part file. This will be helpful inidentifying
the part to open, especially if there are numerous versions of the
same part.
n Open Part File
n Save Part File
n Search Part File
n About
n Help
Open Part FileThe Open Part File command helps you open the
appropriate part file by checking theproperty data and an image of
the part file, if one exists.
A file can contain title, description and a preview bitmap. When
creating the property datakeep these specifications in mind. The
item name is completely customizable. The maximumnumber of items is
64. The maximum characters for an item name is 16. The
maximumcharacters for property data is 128.
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Save Part File
Enhancements 55
When the part file name is selected by highlighting it, the
corresponding property data andimage are displayed, if they
exist.
Note that an image file must be created manually for a preview
of the part file to exist. This isdone when saving the part file.
See the Save Part File section for more details.
To open the selected part file, press the OPEN button.
Calling the Search function from the "Open" dialog boxBy
pressing the SEARCH button, the Search Part File command can be
invoked. See theSearch Part File command section for details.
Save Part FileThe Save Part File function allows you to input
part file property information and previewimages when saving the
part file.
If a part image file exists in the directory, it is displayed in
the Preview window located in theupper right of the dialog.
Pressing the CAPTURE button can create an initial image or an
updated image if one alreadyexists. When the button is depressed,
the dialog box disappears and you are prompted toindicate the
viewport that contains the image to capture. Mouse click in the
viewport and animage will be created and appear in the preview
window of the dialog box which reappears.
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Part File Manager
56 CADKEY 19
Note the size of the image file could be very large if you
indicate a largewindow viewport. Reducing the size of the image
file helps improve theperformance of the Part File Search
function.
Editing the Property Data FieldsTo edit the part file property
information highlight that property item and press the EDITbutton,
F2 key or double click on the title.
Note entities in the part file can be used to populate the
property data fields, to do thishighlight the property item and
press the CAPTURE NOTE button. Once this button ispressed, the
dialog box disappears and lets you indicate the note in your part
file. Mouse clickon the note entity and you are returned to the
dialog box. The note text will appear in thedescription of the
selected item. Keep in mind that this is a one-time copy and will
need to berecaptured if you change the note in CADKEY and want that
change reflected in the propertydata.
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Save Part File
Enhancements 57
When you have finished in the "Save" dialog box, save the part
file by pressing the SAVEbutton or the SAVE AS button. The image is
saved with the same file name as the part filebut with a .BMP
extension in the same directory as the part file.
Note if the BMP file is not in the same directory as the PRT
file, the previewwill not be available.
Reconfiguring the Property Information by Editing the
PROFIELD.CSV FileYou can also reconfigure the property information
that is gathered. The PROFIELD.CSV filelocated in the CK19/NOT
directory can be edited to change the property fields. This file is
acomma delimited text file that can be opened in a text editor such
as Notepad. When openedin Notepad, all of the text is separated by
commas as shown below:
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Part File Manager
58 CADKEY 19
field, type, length, desc, captionname, STRING, 128, 1,
"NAME"scale, STRING, 32, 1, "SCALE"paper, STRING, 32, 1,
"PAPER"projection, STRING, 32, 1, "PROJECTION"approved, STRING,
128, 1, "APPROVED"revision, STRING, 128, 0, "REVISION"date2,
STRING, 32, 0, "DATE"product, STRING, 128, 0, "PRODUCT"unitname,
STRING, 128, 0, "UNIT"pname, STRING, 128, 0, "PARTS"pcode, STRING,
128, 1, "CODE"material, STRING, 128, 0, "MATERIAL"process, STRING,
128, 0, "PROCESS"quantity, STRING, 32, 0, "QTY"
When editing this file, keep the following in mind:
n First line "field,type,length,desc,caption" - Do not remove
this line. This line indicatesthe meaning of each column.
If the file is to be customized with additional title captions,
the added lines must be in thesame format as the existing lines and
separated by commas. The file can contain up to 64items. The first,
or field column, must contain at least one character of text. The
exacttext of this column is not important. It is recommended that
field names be unique. Thetype column must contain the text STRING.
The length and desc columns shouldcontain a number. Zero can be
used in both columns. The caption column must havetext no longer
than 16 characters. Text over 16 characters will not display
properly or notdisplay at all. As noted above, the text must be
enclosed in quotes.
n Each line from line 2 down is the property data used by Part
File Manager.
n Each line consists of 5 columns. The only columns that should
be edited are Column 1and Column 5. Columns 2 - 4 should not be
edited and should exist as they do in thedefault file.
n Column 1: (Field name) String data saved with property data as
copious.
n Column 5: (Field caption) This string is used as each the
title of the file propertydata.
When editing the existing file, the text in the caption column
is the text that isdisplayed as the Title in the "Save Part File"
dialog box. The title caption must beenclosed in "quotation marks"
in the CSV file. If the trailing quotation mark ismissing, a
vertical bar will be displayed after the caption text. Although the
captiontext is in all capital, or upper case, characters by
default, both upper and lower casecan be used. Numbers and symbols
can also be used but commas and quotationmarks can not.
To edit this file in a program other than Notepad, copy the
information out of Notepad andinto Microsoft Word. Then convert the
text to a table by the commas. Once you've madeyour changes you can
convert the table back to text by and save the file as a text file
with a.CSV extension. Make sure you do not save it as a DOC
file.
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Search Part File
Enhancements 59
To save the edited PROFIELD.CSV file, choose File>Save As
from the program Menu bar.Be sure to save the file in the CK19/NOT
directory.
Search Part FileThe Search Part File function searches part
files by search word(s) in the part property data.
Condition TabSpecify the folder to start the search in. To
contain subfolders, enable (4) the Sub Foldercheckbox. To change
the start folder, use the File>Open Folder command from the Menu
bar.
By default, the search conditions set apply to every part file.
The CLEAR button will changethe search condition back to the
defaults at any time.
To set search condition(s), select Name, Condition, and input a
search word in the Query field.Condition2 is valid only when
Compound conditions are selected, "Or" or "And".
Press the START button to begin searching.
The number of files found is displayed in the status bar (Hit: n
files). If an image files existsfor those files, they are displayed
in the Image and Browse tab. If you click the file in the filelist,
you are brought to the Image tab automatically.
Search results can be copied to the Windows clipboard in text
data format with tab spacing.The Edit>Copy result command does
this when one or more file(s) are found.
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Part File Manager
60 CADKEY 19
Some spreadsheet or database software (such as Excel) can use
this data. To bring thisinformation into Excel, for example, simply
open Excel and select Edit>Paste and the searchresults will be
pasted into the spreadsheet as shown below.
Image TabThe Image tab in the dialog will display the image and
property information of the file youselected on the Condition tab,
if these items are available. Double clicking on the image orright
clicking and selecting Open with CADKEY from the Context Sensitive
Menu will openthe part file.
The property information display, to the right of the image
preview, can be turned on and offby choosing View>Property from
the Menu bar. A checkmark (4) will appear if the view ison and will
disappear when the display is off.
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Search Part File
Enhancements 61
Browse TabAll images available for file list are displayed in
the browse tab.
Double clicking on the image or right clicking and selecting
Open with CADKEY from theContext Sensitive Menu will open the part
file.
You can print the images by choosing File>Print from the Menu
bar.
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Part File Manager
62 CADKEY 19
AboutA dialog box with the product information and the version
number will be displayed.
HelpAccesses the help file.
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Automatic Dimensioning
Enhancements 63
Dimension Wizard
CADKEY Dimension Wizard is a CDE (CADKEY Dynamic Extension) that
provides you with a set oftools to help you quickly generate
dimensions on a drawing. You can automatically generatedimensions
in either Model mode or Layout mode.
From the Application Menu on the Menu bar select CDE Load to
load the DIMWIZ.CDE. If you wantto add this CDE to your autoload
list go to Tools>Options>Startup and add the DIMWIZ.CDE to
yourautoload list at the bottom of the dialog box.
Once you have the CDE loaded either manually or through
autoload, select Dimension Wizard from thedrop down Application
Menu on the Menu bar. The Dimension Wizard Menu (shown below)
willappear in the Application Menu Window.
See the Dimension Wizard Tutorial to help get you started using
this dimensioning tool. See theDimensioning Wizard Tutorial 2 for
an example of creating ordinate linear dimensions and tabular
holedimensions.
Automatic DimensioningBefore using this function you need to
either create a configuration setting or use a previouslycreated
CDW configuration setting file. Go to the Config icon to set your
configurationproperties.
If you invoke this function and no setting information is found
an error message will appearasking you to run the configuration
function.
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Dimension Wizard
64 CADKEY 19
The Automatic Dimension (AutoDim) function automatically creates
dimensions based on theconfiguration settings you've selected in
the "CADKEY Dimension Wizard Configuration"dialog box.
Auto Dim will operate in both Model mode and Layout mode.
Configuration SettingsWhen you select the Config icon the
"CADKEY Dimension Wizard Configuration" dialogbox will appear.
With the settings available in this dialog box, you will be able
to control the way DimensionWizard will automatically generate the
dimensions in your drawing. You can use the defaults,set new
criteria or load an existing Configuration file.
Vertical Dimension
Vertical Dimension: When this checkbox is enabled, pressing
AutoDim will create verticaldimensions. If the checkbox is
disabled, you will not be able to change any of the settings inthis
area.
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Configuration Settings
Enhancements 65
AutoDim will dimension from the lowest selectable EndEnt to the
second lowest selectableEndEnt, then from the second lowest to the
third lowest and so on until all selectable EndEntsare
dimensioned.
Position - Determine on which side of the part the dimensions
will be created.
n Right indicates that the text will be placed the Distance from
the selectable EndEntfarthest on the right of the part.
n Left indicates that the text will be placed the Distance from
the selectable EndEntfarthest on the left of the part.
n If Both is selected the part is virtually divided in two parts
based on the center andthe dimensions are created on the right and
the left of the part.
Type - Indicates whether AutoDim will create Serial dimensions
or Ordinate dimensions.These dimensions will conform to CADKEY's
Linear dimension and Ordinate dimensions,respectively. When Serial
dimensions are selected an overall dimension is also created.
Distance - This is the distance of the dimension from the
part.
Tolerance - Vertical dimensions will ignore any EndEnt that
creates a dimension less than thetolerance setting. Thus no
dimension under this value will be generated.
Horizontal Dimension
Horizontal Dimension - When this checkbox is enabled, pressing
AutoDim will createhorizontal dimensions. If the checkbox is
disabled, then you will not be able to change anysettings in this
area.
AutoDim will dimension from the selectable EndEnt farthest to
the left, to the next selectableEndEnt, moving rightward. It will
keep moving to the right until all selectable EndEnts
aredimensioned.
Position - Determines what side of the part the dimension text
will be placed.
n Top indicates that the text will placed a Distance from the
selectable EndEnt fartheston the top of the part.
n Bottom indicates the text will be placed a Distance from the
selectable EndEntfarthest on the bottom of the part.
n If Both is selected the part is virtually divided into two
parts based on the center anddimensions are created on the top and
the bottom of the part.
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Dimension Wizard
66 CADKEY 19
Type - Indicates whether AutoDim will create Serial dimensions
or Ordinate dimensions.These dimensions will conform to CADKEY's
Linear dimension and Ordinate dimensions,respectively. When Serial
dimensions are selected an overall dimension is also created.
Distance - This is the distance of the dimension from the
part.
Tolerance - Horizontal dimension will ignore any EndEnt that
creates a dimension less thanthe tolerance setting. Thus, no
dimension under this value will be generated.
Arc Dimension
Arcs - When the arc checkbox is enabled, pressing AutoDim will
create dimensions for allselectable arcs. If the arc checkbox is
disabled, then you will not be able to change any of thesettings in
this area.
Distance - This indicates the distance of the dimension from the
arc. The anchor point of thedimension text will be placed at the
midpoint of the angle.
Type - Indicates the type of dimension you wish to create. R
will create Radial dimensions. Dwill create Diametric dimensions.
Choosing none will not create any arc dimensions (thoughInclude
Centers can still be active allowing you to include the center of
the arcs in lineardimensions).
Include Centers - If the Include Centers checkbox is enabled,
then any horizontal or verticaldimension will add the centers of
all arcs to the list of selectable points. Include Centers isonly
selectable if horizontal and vertical dimensions are enabled.
Circle Dimension
Circles - When the circle checkbox is enabled, pressing AutoDim
will create dimensions forall selectable circles. If the checkbox
is disabled, then you will not be able to change any ofthe settings
in this area.
Distance - This determines the distance of the dimension text
from the circle. The dimensiontext will be placed at an angle of 45
degrees.
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Configuration Settings
Enhancements 67
Type - Indicates the type of dimension you wish to create. R
will create Radial dimensions. Dwill create Diametric dimensions.
Choosing none will not create any circle dimensions(though Include
Centers can still be active allowing you to include the center of
the circles inlinear dimensions). Table will generate a table of
all the circles (see the Circle Table topic formore details).
Include Centers - If the Include Centers checkbox is enabled,
then any horizontal or verticaldimension will add the centers of
all circles to the list of selectable points. Include Centers
isonly selectable if horizontal and vertical dimensions are
enabled.
Include Z - If this checkbox is enabled, the Z values of the
circle center will be added to thetable (If table mode is
selected). If Table is not active then this checkbox will not
beselectable.
Circle Table
Table Type - Indicates whether you want to create a table that
lists the Radii or the Diameterof the selected circles.
Sort By - Allows you to have the table sorted by Diameter/Radius
of the circles, the X or Ycoordinates, or not sorted at all. The
table order will depend entirely on the order in which thecircles
were selected.
Sort Type - If a sort is selected you can indicate if it should
be in Ascending or Descendingorder.
Format Table - This section lets you determine what the table
will look like.
Format X Values - Indicates how many digits the system will
reserve to represent the Xcoordinate and allots the appropriate
space. You can indicate how many digits before thedecimal point and
how many after it will be used. The first number corresponds to the
numberof spaces allotted for the whole number portion of the
coordinate and the second numbercorresponds to the number of spaces
for the decimal value of the coordinate.
Format Y Values - Indicates how many digits the system will
reserve to represent the Ycoordinate, allotting the appropriate
space. You can indicate how many digits before thedecimal point and
how many after it will be used. The first number corresponds to the
numberof