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Mechanism Design using Creo Parametric 2.0

Authored and published using

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Copyright 2012 Parametric Technology Corporation. All Rights Reserved.


Copyright for PTC software products is with Parametric Technology Corporation, its
subsidiary companies (collectively PTC), and their respective licensors. This software
is provided under written license agreement, contains valuable trade secrets and
proprietary information, and is protected by the copyright laws of the United States and
other countries. It may not be copied or distributed in any form or medium, disclosed to
third parties, or used in any manner not provided for in the software licenses agreement
except with written prior approval from PTC.
UNAUTHORIZED USE OF SOFTWARE OR ITS DOCUMENTATION CAN RESULT IN
CIVIL DAMAGES AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.
User and training guides and related documentation from PTC is subject to the copyright
laws of the United States and other countries and is provided under a license agreement
that restricts copying, disclosure, and use of such documentation. PTC hereby grants to
the licensed software user the right to make copies in printed form of this documentation
if provided on software media, but only for internal/personal use and in accordance
with the license agreement under which the applicable software is licensed. Any copy
made shall include the PTC copyright notice and any other proprietary notice provided
by PTC. Training materials may not be copied without the express written consent of
PTC. This documentation may not be disclosed, transferred, modified, or reduced to
any form, including electronic media, or transmitted or made publicly available by any
means without the prior written consent of PTC and no authorization is granted to make
copies for such purposes.
Information described herein is furnished for general information only, is subject to
change without notice, and should not be construed as a warranty or commitment by
PTC. PTC assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may
appear in this document.
For Important Copyright, Trademark, Patent and Licensing Information see
backside of this guide.

About PTC University


Welcome to PTC University!
With an unmatched depth and breadth of product development knowledge,
PTC University helps you realize the most value from PTC products. Only
PTC University offers:

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An innovative learning methodology PTCs Precision Learning


Methodology is a proven proprietary approach used by PTC to develop and
deliver learning solutions.
Flexible Delivery Options PTC University ensures you receive the same
quality training programs regardless of the learning style. Our extensive
experience, innovative learning techniques, and targeted learning modules
facilitate the rapid retention of concepts, and higher user productivity.
Premier Content and Expertise A thorough instructor certification process
and direct access to the PTC product development and PTC consulting
organizations means that only PTC courses can give you highly-qualified
instructors, the most up-to-date product information and best practices
derived from thousands of deployments.
Global Focus PTC University delivers training where and when you
need it by providing over 100 training centers located across 35 countries
offering content in nine languages.
Delivering Value A role-based learning design ensures the right people
have the right tools to do their jobs productively while supporting the
organizations overall performance goals.

The course you are about to take will expose you to a number of learning
offerings that PTC University has available. These include:

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Instructor-led Training (ILT) The ideal blend of classroom lectures,


personal demonstrations, hands-on workshops, assessments, and
post-classroom tools.
Pro/FICIENCY This Web-based, skills assessment and
development-planning tool will help improve your skills and productivity.
eLearning Libraries 24/7 access to Web-based training that will
compliment your instructor-led course.
Precision LMS A powerful learning management system that will manage
your eLearning Library and Pro/FICIENCY assessments.

PTC University additionally offers Precision Learning Programs. These are


corporate learning programs designed to your organizations specific goals,
current skills, desired competencies, and training preferences.
Whatever your learning needs are, PTC University can help you get the most
out of your PTC products.

PTC Telephone and Fax Numbers


North America

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Europe

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Education Services Registration


Tel: (888) 782-3773
Fax: (781) 370-5307
Technical Support (Monday - Friday)
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Fax: (781) 707-0328
License Management and Contracts
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Fax: (781) 707-0331

Technical Support, License Management, Training & Consulting


Tel: +800-PTC-4-HELP (00-800-78-24-43-57)

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Please refer to http://www.ptc.com/services/training/contact.htm for contact


information.

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In addition, you can access the PTC Web site at www.ptc.com. Our Web
site contains the latest training schedules, registration information, directions
to training facilities, and course descriptions. You can also reach technical
support, and register for online service options such as knowledge base
searches, reference libraries, and documentation. You can also find general
information about PTC, PTC Products, Consulting Services, Customer
Support, and PTC Partners.

Precision Learning
Precision Learning in the Classroom
PTC University uses the Precision Learning methodology to develop
effective, comprehensive class material that will improve the productivity
of both individuals and organizations. PTC then teaches using the proven
instructional design principal of Tell Me, Show Me, Let Me Do:

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Topics are introduced through a short presentation, highlighting the key


concepts.
These key concepts are then reinforced by seeing them applied in the
software application.
You then apply the concepts through structured exercises.

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After the course, a Pro/FICIENCY assessment is provided to enable you to


assess your understanding of the materials. The assessment results will also
identify the class topics that require further review.

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At the end of the class, you will either take a Pro/FICIENCY assessment via
your PTC University eLearning account, or your instructor will provide training
on how to do this after the class.

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Precision Learning After the Class

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Each student that enrolls in a PTC class has a PTC University eLearning
account. This account will be automatically created if you do not already
have one.
As part of the class, you receive additional content in your account:

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A Pro/FICIENCY assessment from the course content that generates a


Recommended Learning Report based on your results.
A Web-based training version of the course, based on the same
instructional approach of lecture, demonstration, and exercise. The
Recommended Learning Report will link directly to sections of this training
that you may want to review.
Please note that Web-based training may not be available in all languages.
The Web-based training is available in your account for one year after the
live class.

Precision Learning Recommendations

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PTC uses a role-based training approach. The roles and the associated
training are graphically displayed in a curriculum map. Curriculum maps are
available for numerous PTC products and versions in the training section of
our Web site at http://www.ptc.com/services/edserv/learning/paths/index.htm.

Please note that a localized map may not be available in every language and
that the map above is partial and for illustration purposes only.
Before the end of the class, your instructor will review the map
corresponding to the course you are taking. This review, along with instructor
recommendations, should give you some ideas for additional training that
corresponds to your role and job functions.

Training Agenda
Day 1
Introduction to the Mechanism Design Process
Creating Mechanism Connections
Configuring Motion and Analysis
Evaluating Analysis Results

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Module 01
Module 02
Module 03
Module 04

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Table of Contents
Mechanism Design using Creo Parametric 2.0

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Introduction to the Mechanism Design Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1


Introduction to Mechanism Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Understanding the Mechanism Design Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Creating the Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Verifying the Mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Adding Servo Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Preparing for Analysis of a Mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Analyzing the Mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Evaluating Analysis Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

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Creating Mechanism Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1


Creating Mechanism Bodies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Understanding Constraints and Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Understanding Predefined Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Configuring Motion Axis Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Using Rigid Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Using Pin Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Using Slider Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Using Cylinder Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Using Planar Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
Using Ball Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
Using Weld Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
Using Bearing Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
Using General Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38
Using Slot Connection Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-39
Creating Cam-Follower Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
3D Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-47
Creating Generic Gear Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51
Creating Dynamic Gear Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-56
Creating Belt Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-61
Using the Drag and Snapshot Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-65
Configuring Motion and Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Understanding Servo Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Understanding Analysis Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Creating Geometry Servo Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Creating Motion Axis Servo Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Creating Slot Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Graphing the Magnitude of Servo Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20

Assigning Constant Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Assigning Ramp Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assigning Cosine Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assigning SCCA Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assigning Cycloidal Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assigning Parabolic Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assigning Polynomial Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assigning Table Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3-22
3-26
3-30
3-34
3-37
3-40
3-44
3-47

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Evaluating Analysis Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1


Generating Measure Results for Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Creating Analysis Measure Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Evaluating Playback Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Understanding the Animate Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Checking for Collisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Creating Motion Envelopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

Student Preface Using the Header

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In this topic, you learn about the course handbook layout and
the header used to begin each lab in Creo Parametric.

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Procedure / Exercise Header:

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Modules
Topics
Concept
Theory
Procedure
Exercise (if applicable)

Course Handbook Layout:

Course Handbook Layout


The information in this course handbook is organized to help students locate
information after the course is complete. Each course is organized into
modules, each covering a general subject. Each module contains topics,
with each topic focused on a specific portion of the module subject. Each
individual topic in the module is divided into the following sections:
Concept This section contains the initial introduction to the topic and
is presented during the class lecture as an overhead slide, typically with
figures and bullets.

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Theory This section provides detailed information about content


introduced in the Concept, and is discussed in the class lecture but not
shown on the overhead slide. The Theory section contains additional
paragraphs of text, bullets, tables, and/or figures.
Procedure This section provides step-by-step instructions about how to
complete the topic within Creo Parametric. Procedures are short, focused,
and cover a specific topic. Procedures are found in the Student Handbook
only. Not every topic has a Procedure, as there are knowledge topics that
contain only Concept and Theory.
Exercise Exercises are similar to procedures, except that they are
typically longer, more involved, and use more complicated models.
Exercises also may cover multiple topics, so not every topic will have an
associated exercise. Exercises are found in the separate Exercise Guide
and/or the online exercise HTML files.

Procedure / Exercise Header

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The first module for certain courses is known as a process


module. Process modules introduce you to the generic high-level
processes that will be taught over the span of the entire course.

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To make the exercises and procedures (referred to collectively as labs) as


concise as possible, each begins with a header. The header lists the name
of the lab, the working directory, and the file you are to open.
The following items are indicated in the figure above, where applicable:

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1. Procedure/Exercise Name This is the name of the lab.


2. Scenario This briefly describes what will be done in the lab. The
Scenario is only found in Exercises.
3. Close Windows/Erase Not Displayed A reminder that you should
close any open files and erase them from memory:
until the icon is no longer displayed.

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Click Close

and then click OK.


Click Erase Not Displayed
Folder Name This is the working directory for the lab. Lab files are
stored in topic folders within specific functional area folders. The path to
the lab files is:
PTCU\CreoParametric2\functional_area_folder\topic_folder
In the example, Round is the functional area folder and Variable
is the topic folder, so you would set the Working Directory to
PTCU\CreoParametric2\Round\Variable.
To set the working directory, right-click the folder in the folder tree or
browser, and select Set Working Directory.
Model to Open This is the file to be opened from the working
directory. In the above example, VARIABLE_RAD.PRT is the model to
open. The model could be a part, drawing, assembly, and so on. If
you are expected to begin the lab without an open model, and instead
create a new model, you will see Create New.
To open the indicated model, right-click the file in the browser and
select Open.

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4.

5.

6.
7.

Task Name Labs are broken into distinct tasks. There may be one
or more tasks within a lab.
Lab Steps These are the individual steps required to complete
a task.

Two other items to note for labs:


Saving Saving your work after completing a lab is optional, unless
otherwise stated.
Exercises Exercises follow the same header format as Procedures.

Setting Up Creo Parametric for Use with Training Labs

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Before you begin a lab from any training course, it is important that you
configure Creo Parametric to ensure the system is set up to run the lab
exercises properly. Therefore, if you are running the training labs on a
computer outside of a training center, follow these three basic steps:

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Extract the class files zip file to a root level drive such as C: or D:.
The extracted zip will create the default folder path automatically, such
as C:\PTCU\CreoParametric2\.
Locate your existing Creo Parametric shortcut.
Copy and paste the shortcut to your desktop.
Right-click the newly pasted shortcut and select Properties.
Select the Shortcut tab and set the Start In location to be the same as
the default folder. For example, C:\PTCU\CreoParametric2\.
Start Creo Parametric using the newly configured shortcut.
The default working directory will be set to the CreoParametric2 folder.
You can then navigate easily to the functional area and topic folders.

PROCEDURE - Student Preface Using the Header


In this exercise, you learn how to use the header to set up the Creo
Parametric working environment for each lab in the course.
Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

SampleFunctionalArea\Topic1_Folder

Configure Creo Parametric to ensure the system is set up to run


the lab exercises properly.

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Step 1:

EXTRUDE_1.PRT

Perform this task only if you are running the labs on a computer
outside of a training center, otherwise proceed to Task 2.

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1. Extract the zipped class files to a root level drive such as C: or D:.
The extracted ZIP will create the default folder path automatically,
such as C:\PTCU\CreoParametric2.

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2. Locate your existing Creo Parametric shortcut.


Copy and paste the shortcut to your desktop.
Right-click the newly pasted shortcut and select Properties.
Select the Shortcut tab and set the Start In location to be
PTCU\CreoParametric2.

Close all open windows and erase all objects from memory to
avoid any possible conflicts.

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Step 2:

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3. Start Creo Parametric using the newly configured shortcut.


The default working directory is set to the CreoParametric2 folder.
You can then navigate easily to the functional area and topic folders.

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1. If you currently have files open, click Close


toolbar, until the icon no longer displays.

from the Quick Access

2. Click Erase Not Displayed


from the Data group in the ribbon.
Click OK if the Erase Not Displayed dialog box appears.

Step 3:

Browse to and expand the functional area folder for this procedure
and set the folder indicated in the header as the Creo Parametric
working directory.

1. Notice the SampleFunctionalArea\Topic1_Folder as


indicated in the header above.
2. If necessary, select the Folder
Browser
navigator.

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tab from the

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3. Click Working Directory


to view the current working
directory folder in the browser.
Double-click
SampleFunctionalArea.

4. Right-click the Topic1_Folder folder and select Set Working


Directory.

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5. Click Working Directory from the Common Folders section to display


the contents of the new working directory in the browser.

Open the file for this procedure.

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Step 4:

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Alternatively you can use the cascading folder path in the


browser to navigate to the topic folder, and then right-click and
select Set Working Directory from the browser.

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1. Notice the lab model EXTRUDE_1.PRT is specified in the header


above.
Double-click extrude_1.prt in the browser to open it.

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2. You are now ready to begin the first task in the lab:
Read the first task.
Perform the first step, which in most cases will be to set the initial
datum display for the procedure or exercise.
Perform the remaining steps in the procedure or exercise.

Step 5:

Set the initial datum display options.

1. The instruction for setting the datum display indicates which Datum
Display types to enable and disable. For example, Enable only the
following Datum Display types:

2. To set the datum display, first click the Datum Display drop-down
menu from the In Graphics toolbar.

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3. Next, enable and disable the


check boxes as necessary. For
example you could disable the
Select All check box, and then
enable only the desired datum
types.

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This completes the procedure.

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4. The model should now appear


as shown.

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Module

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Introduction to the Mechanism Design


Process
Module Overview

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This module is an overview of functionality used within Creo Parametric for


the design of complex mechanisms.

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In this module, you learn the typical process used to design mechanisms
within Creo Parametric and the mechanism design extension. Most
companies use this process; however, your specific company process may
differ.

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Objectives

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After completing this module, you will be able to:


Understand and describe mechanism design.
Understand and describe tools available in the Mechanism Design
Extension.
Understand and describe a typical Creo Parametric mechanism design
process.

2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 1

Introduction to Mechanism Design


The Mechanism Design extension enables you to simulate
kinematic motion in your Creo Parametric assemblies.
Mechanism Design Extension (MDX)
enables you to:

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The Mechanism Environment consists


of the:

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Define mechanism connections


between components.
Move the connected components
using servo motors.
Measure changes in position,
velocity, and acceleration.
Detect and identify collisions
between moving components.
Create trace curves and motion
envelopes.

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Mechanism Tree.
Mechanism tab.

Figure 1 Loader Mechanism

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Introduction to Mechanism Design

The Mechanism Design Extension (MDX) is included in every seat of Creo


Parametric. This module is integrated within the assembly environment and
enables you to create kinematics design studies of your assemblies.

Define mechanism connections between components.


Move the connected components using servo motors.
Measure changes in position, velocity, and acceleration.
Detect and identify collisions between moving components.
Create trace curves and motion envelopes.

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Using MDX, you can do the following:

The Mechanism Dynamics Option (MDO) is required to simulate


gravity, force motors, springs, dampers, and forces/torques. This
functionality is covered in the Mechanism Simulation using Creo
Parametric course.

The Mechanism Environment


You access the Mechanism environment by clicking Mechanism from the
Application tab in the ribbon. The Mechanism environment is made up of
a Mechanism Tree, which is located under the main model tree, and the
Motion and Insert groups, located in the Mechanism tab of the ribbon. These
toolbars contain icons specific to the Mechanism environment.
Module 1 | Page 2

2012 PTC

Understanding the Mechanism Design Process


The following steps are used in a typical mechanism design
process.
Mechanism Design Workflow:

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Creating the model


Verifying the mechanism
Adding mechanism entities
Preparing for analysis
Analyzing the mechanism
Evaluating results
Running post-MDX processes

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Figure 1 Adding a Mechanism


Constraint

Figure 2 Verifying the Mechanism

Figure 3 Adding Mechanism


Entities

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Understanding the Mechanism Design Process


The following steps are used in a typical mechanism design process. Note
that some of these points are optional and the process varies depending on
the needs of your product and organization.

Creating the model


Verifying the mechanism
Adding mechanism entities
Preparing for analysis
Analyzing the mechanism
Evaluating results
Running post-MDX processes
The optional points include Running post-MDX processes as well
as certain tasks in Evaluating results.

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Module 1 | Page 3

Creating the Model


The first step in every mechanism design is to define the
mechanism model.
Creating the Model:

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Create Connections
Mechanism Bodies
Motion Axis Settings

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Figure 1 The Mechanism Model

Figure 3 Creating a Pin Connection

Figure 2 Motion Axis Definition

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Creating the Model

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Creating a mechanism model is similar to creating a standard Creo


Parametric assembly, except that you position components using predefined
mechanism connection sets rather than standard assembly constraints. Any
components in the assembly that are constrained together, with no degrees of
freedom between them, are identified as a Body of the mechanism assembly.
To complete the model, you configure motion axis settings of each connection
set, limiting range of motion in connections so they do not fail during an
analysis of the mechanism.

Creating Connections
To create a mechanism assembly, you add components to an assembly by
selecting the Model tab and clicking Assemble from the Component group in
the ribbon, just as you would create any assembly in Creo Parametric. When
positioning the components, rather than using standard assembly constraints

Module 1 | Page 4

2012 PTC

such as Coincident, Distance, and Angle Offset, you select from a predefined
list of mechanism connection sets such as Pin, Cylinder, and Slider.
The Cams
and Gears
connection tools are found in the
Mechanism tab, within the Connections group in the ribbon of the of
the Creo Parametric window. They are not found in the assembly
dashboard with the other mechanism connections.

Mechanism Bodies

Defining Motion Axis Settings

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Components that are assembled together and have no degrees of freedom


between them are considered single bodies in the mechanism assembly.
You create a Body by fully constraining components, using standard
Creo Parametric assembly constraints or by adding the Rigid mechanism
connection set. Components that are grouped as a body will move together
when the mechanism moves.

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After you add connections to place components in the assembly, use


the Motion Axis Settings dialog box to define zero position references, a
regeneration value for Creo Parametric to use when it assembles the model,
and limits on the permitted motion of the connections. By configuring motion
axis settings, you limit the range of motion in a connection so it does not
fail during an analysis.

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Motion Axis Settings are also important for defining the design
position of a mechanism, which is the position the assembly will
take when it is placed in other assemblies and drawings.

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Module 1 | Page 5

Verifying the Mechanism


The second step in every mechanism design is to verify that the
connected components move in the manner you intended.
Verifying the Mechanism:

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Reconnect
Drag Components and Bodies

Verifying the Mechanism

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Figure 1 Verifying the Mechanism

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After you create your model, you verify its motion. This is an important step
because it ensures that the connections produce the desired motion on the
parts with respect to each other.

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Your mechanism can be verified using one of the following methods:


Reconnect Run an assembly analysis by selecting the Mechanism tab,

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from the Bodies group in the ribbon. This


and clicking Reconnect
process is also known as connecting the assembly. If your assembly is
already connected, running an assembly analysis does not move your
mechanism.

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Drag Use Drag Components

to open the Drag dialog box and

to
interactively drag components of the assembly. Use Body Drag
study the general nature of how your mechanism can move and the extent
to which bodies can be positioned.
Use the options in the Drag dialog box to disable connections, glue bodies,
and apply geometry constraints to obtain a specific configuration. You can
then record these configurations as snapshots for later reference.

Module 1 | Page 6

2012 PTC

Adding Servo Motors


Use servo motors to define the mechanism's desired absolute
motion.
You can add servo motors to:

Figure 2 A Motor Applying Linear


Motion

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Figure 1 A Motor Applying


Rotational Motion

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Motion axes of a connection.


Geometric entities of a
component.

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Adding Servo Motors

You add servo motors to specify position, velocity, or acceleration of a


mechanism.

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Adding Servo Motors

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After you create your model and verify the connections that enable it to
move correctly, you can add servo motors to drive the model's motion. You
use the servo motors to define the mechanism's desired position, velocity,
or acceleration.
A servo motor moves your model to satisfy the specified position, velocity,
or acceleration requirements without regard for the forces needed or for
interference between bodies. Because a servo motor defines the absolute
rotational or translational motion of a motion axis, the motion axis loses the
degree of freedom (DOF) associated with that motion.
You can add servo motors to:
Motion axes of a connection.
Geometric entities of a component.
Servo motors were called Drivers in previous releases of
Mechanism Design. The Mechanism Dynamics Option (MDO) is
required to add additional mechanism entities such as gravity, force
motors, springs, dampers, forces, and torques.

2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 7

Preparing for Analysis of a Mechanism


Define the mechanism's initial position and measures that must
be evaluated during the analysis run.
Prepare for analysis:
Define initial position
Create measures
Add measures to evaluate:

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Position.
Velocity.
Acceleration.

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Figure 1 Analyzing Position

Figure 2 Analyzing
Acceleration

Preparing for Analysis of a Mechanism

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Before performing an analysis on a model, you must prepare for the analysis
by first defining the initial position that the analysis will begin from. It is
also important to define measures that will be evaluated as the mechanism
analysis is run through the defined motion.

Defining the Initial Position


The initial position of a mechanism can be defined by assigning regeneration
values to the motion axis definitions of its connections. Regenerating the
model will then move the mechanism to that defined position. Initial position
can also be defined by using tools in the Drag dialog box.

Creating Measures
You define measures before running an analysis because they are then
evaluated as the mechanism analysis moves the mechanism through
its defined motion. Measures are important because they can help you
understand and analyze the results of moving a mechanism and provide
information that you can use to improve the mechanism's design.
You can create measures to evaluate position, velocity, or acceleration for
points or motion axes in your assembly.
Module 1 | Page 8

2012 PTC

Analyzing the Mechanism


Analyze your mechanism based on its defined connections,
selected servo motors, and preferences.
Types of Analysis:
Position Analysis
Kinematic Analysis
Define Preferences and Motors:

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Define Preferences
Lock Bodies
Define Motors

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Figure 1 Kinematic Analysis at Initial


Position

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Figure 2 Kinematic Analysis at Final


Position

Analyzing the Mechanism

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An analysis is run on a mechanism by first selecting the type of analysis to


run and then setting the analysis preferences and motors.

Types of Analysis

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When analyzing the mechanism, you must select the type of analysis to run.
Create a Position Analysis A position analysis enables you to analyze if
your mechanism can assemble under the requirements of the applied servo
motors and connections. In previous releases of Creo Parametric, position
analysis was also named Repeated Assembly and Kinematic analysis.
Create a Kinematic Analysis A kinematic analysis enables you to
review the motion of your model as imposed by servo motors. You can also
use a kinematic analysis as the first step in your design process, to locate
interference or points where the assembly analysis fails.
Dynamic, Static, and Force Balance analysis types exist in the Type
drop-down list; however, the Mechanism Dynamics Option (MDO)
is required to run these analysis types.

Defining Preferences and Motors


After you select an analysis type, you then do the following:
2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 9

Define Preferences Depending on the type of analysis you create, you


need to define the preferences of the analysis. These preferences include
the time domain which enables you to determine how Creo Parametric
records motion over time.
Lock Bodies You may lock bodies and connections so they remain fixed
during the analysis.
Define Motors You can use the motors tabs to enable or disable specific
servo motors.

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The external loads tab is disabled unless you have an MDO license,
because you cannot simulate external force or torque loads, friction,
or gravity in MDX.

Module 1 | Page 10

2012 PTC

Evaluating Analysis Results


Evaluate the results of your analysis to ensure mechanism
design will function properly.
Analysis Results:

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Analysis Results Playback


Interference Check
Measures and Graphs
Create Trace Curves
Create Motion Envelopes

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Figure 2 View the Mechanism


in Motion

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Figure 1 Identify Interferences

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Evaluating Analysis Results

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After running an analysis, the results of the analysis should be reviewed


to ensure the mechanism will function properly. The results of an analysis
should be reviewed using the following tools:
Analysis Results Playback By running an analysis playback, you can
review your mechanism model in motion. You can use the Playbacks
dialog box to save, restore, remove, and export your analysis results. After
you run an analysis, you can save the results as a playback file and run
them in another session.
Interference Check You can also run the analysis playback to check for
interferences between moving part models.
Measures and Graphs By reviewing measures and generating
graphs, you can determine the position, velocity, and acceleration of your
mechanism models throughout their range of motion.
Create Trace Curves A trace curve graphically represents the motion of
a point or vertex relative to a part in your mechanism. Trace curves can be
used to create cam profiles, slot curves, and solid geometry.
Create Motion Envelopes A motion envelope is a volumetric
representation of the moving components of your mechanism.
2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 11

PROCEDURE - Process Exercise


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Process\Mech_Design
Step 1:

LOADER.ASM

Create the mechanism model.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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You can move the


component by pressing
CTRL+ALT and
right-clicking to drag it
to the desired position in the
view.

3. In the Open dialog box, select


ARM.PRT, then click Open.

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4. Throughout this exercise, you may reorient the model as required to


view the model and make selections.
Press and hold CTRL, then middle-click and drag upward to zoom
out.
Press and hold CTRL, then middle-click and drag downward to
zoom in.
Press and hold SHIFT, then middle-click and drag to pan the model.
Click Refit

to center the model in the graphics window.

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If your mouse is equipped with a wheel, you can roll the mouse
wheel up to zoom out, and down to zoom in.

5. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click User Defined
to view the drop-down list
of predefined mechanism
constraint sets.
from the
6. Select Pin
drop-down list.

Module 1 | Page 12

2012 PTC

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9. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
dashboard.

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8. Select the Translation references


for the Pin connection.
Select the near surface shown
on ARM.PRT.
Select the surface of the far
side of the boss, shown on
GROUND.PRT.

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7. Select the Axis Alignment


references for the Pin
connection.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the hole in ARM.PRT.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the hole in GROUND.PRT
by using the query selection
process.

10. Click Refit


from the In
Graphics toolbar.

from the

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11. Click Assemble


Component group.

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12. In the Open dialog box, select


BUCKET.PRT, then click Open.

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13. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click User Defined
to view the drop-down list
of predefined mechanism
constraint sets.
from the
14. Select Pin
drop-down list.

15. Reorient the model as


required and select the Axis
Alignment references for the Pin
connection.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the hole in BUCKET.PRT.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the hole in ARM.PRT.
2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 13

16. Reorient the model as required


and select the Translation
references for the Pin
connection.
Select the near surface shown
on BUCKET.PRT.
Select the surface of the far
side of ARM.PRT.

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17. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
dashboard.

from the

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19. Click Assemble


Component group.

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18. Press CTRL+D to reorient


the model to the Standard
Orientation.

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20. In the Open dialog box, select


PISTON1.ASM, then click Open.

Module 1 | Page 14

2012 PTC

21. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click User Defined.
22. Select Pin
from the
drop-down list.

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23. Select the Axis Alignment


references for the Pin
connection.
Select the cylindrical
surface of the hole in
M_CYLINDER1.PRT.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the boss on GROUND.PRT.

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After you select the Axis Alignment references, the piston assembly
may reorient out of your current view. You can move the component
back into view by pressing CTRL+ALT and right-clicking to drag it
back into the view.

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24. Select the Translation references


for the Pin connection.
Select the near surface shown
on M_CYLINDER1.PRT.
Select the surface of the far
side of GROUND.PRT.

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25. Right-click in the graphics


window and select Add Set.

2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 15

26. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click Pin
and
select Cylinder
from the
drop-down list.

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from the Component Placement

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29. Click Complete Component


dashboard.

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28. Select the Axis Alignment


references for the Cylinder
connection.
Select the cylindrical
surface of the hole in
F_CYLINDER1.PRT.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the hole in ARM.PRT.

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27. Press CTRL+ALT and


middle-click to move the
PISTON1.ASM in its remaining
degree of freedom and position,
as shown.

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30. Press CTRL+D to reorient the model to the Standard Orientation.

31. Click Assemble


Component group.

from the

32. In the Open dialog box, select


PISTON2.ASM and then click
Open.

Module 1 | Page 16

2012 PTC

33. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click User Defined.
34. Select Pin
from the
drop-down list.

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35. Select the Axis Alignment


references for the Pin
connection.
Select the cylindrical
surface of the hole in
M_CYLINDER2.PRT.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the hole in BUCKET.PRT.

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After you select the Axis Alignment references, the piston assembly
may reorient out of your current view. The component can be
moved back into view by pressing CTRL+ALT and right-clicking to
drag it back into the view.

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36. Select the Translation references


for the Pin connection.
Select the near surface shown
on M_CYLINDER2.PRT.
Select the surface of the far
side of BUCKET.PRT.

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37. Right-click in the graphics


window and select Add Set.

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38. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click Pin
and
select Cylinder
from the
drop-down list.

39. Select the Axis Alignment


references for the Cylinder
connection.
Select the cylindrical
surface of the hole in
F_CYLINDER2.PRT.
Select the cylindrical surface
of the extrusion of ARM.PRT.

2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 17

40. Click Complete Component


dashboard.

from the Component Placement

Step 2:

Verify and refine the mechanism.

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from the
Components
Component group.

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1. In the ribbon, click Drag

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41. Press CTRL+D to reorient the model to the Standard Orientation.

2. In the graphics window, select


F_CYLINDER1.PRT, the green
cylinder of PISTON1.ASM.

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3. Move the mouse to drag the


mechanism through its motion.

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4. Middle-click to cancel the


movement.

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5. In the graphics window, select


M_CYLINDER2.PRT, the yellow
cylinder of PISTON2.ASM.
6. Move the mouse to drag the
mechanism through its motion.
7. Click in the graphics window
to leave the mechanism in the
position to which you dragged it.
8. Click Close in the Drag dialog
box.
Dragging the mechanism through its motion is one way of verifying
the mechanism. If the connections were not created correctly, the
mechanism would not move as expected.

Module 1 | Page 18

2012 PTC

9. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.


10. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

The connections created while assembling the components of


the assembly are displayed in Mechanism mode.

from the

12. Click Reconnect


Bodies group.

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11. Click Named Views


from the
In Graphics toolbar and select
FRONT.

14. The Confirmation dialog box


appears. Click Yes.

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13. The Connect Assembly dialog


box appears. Click Run.

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The Reconnect tool is another method of verifying the mechanism


has been connected properly.

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15. Return the mechanism to its


original position by clicking
from the Quick
Regenerate
Access toolbar.

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16. In the mechanism tree, expand the CONNECTIONS node and then
the JOINTS node.

17. Expand the piston (PISTON1) slider connection, right-click


TRANSLATION AXIS, and select Edit Definition.

18. The Motion Axis dialog box appears. Edit the Current Position value
from 120 to 50 and press ENTER.
Creo Parametric does not accept the 50 value. A warning
message in the message area of the screen tells you that this
value is outside of the acceptable range of values.
19. Edit the Current Position value from 120 to 80 and press ENTER.
20. Click Set

to set 80 as the Regen value.

21. Click Apply Changes

2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 19

22. In the mechanism tree, expand the piston (PISTON2) slider


connection, right-click TRANSLATION AXIS, and select Edit
Definition.
23. The Motion Axis dialog box appears. Edit the Current Position value
from 300 to 350 and press ENTER.
24. Click Set

to set 350 as the Regen value.

25. Click Apply Changes

1. Click in the background of the


graphics window to de-select any
objects that may be selected.
2. In the ribbon, click Servo Motors

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from the Insert group.


3. The Servo Motor Definition
dialog box appears. Select
the Motion Axis (orange arrow)
from the slider connection in
PISTON1.ASM.

Add servo motors to the mechanism.

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Step 3:

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Changing the Regen value of the piston assemblies has changed


the regenerated position of the mechanism.

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4. In the Servo Motor Definition


dialog box, select the Profile
tab and select Velocity from the
Specification drop-down list.

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5. Edit the Magnitude value of A to


6 and press ENTER.

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6. Click OK to close the dialog box.

Module 1 | Page 20

2012 PTC

7. Click Servo Motors


the Insert group.

from

8. The Servo Motor Definition


dialog box appears. Select
the Motion Axis (orange arrow)
from the slider connection in
PISTON2.ASM.

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9. Click Flip to change the direction


of the motion axis so it is pointing
upward as shown, if required.

12. Edit the value of B to .008 and


press ENTER.

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11. Select Parabolic from the


Magnitude drop-down list.

10. In the Servo Motor Definition


dialog box, select the Profile
tab and select Velocity from the
Specification drop-down list.

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13. Click OK to close the dialog box.

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The servo motors you added will be used to drive the mechanism
through its motion, just as the pistons do in a real loader mechanism.
Prepare the mechanism for analysis.

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Step 4:

1. In the ribbon, click Measures


from the Analysis group.

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2. The Measure Results dialog box


appears. Click New Measure .

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3. The Measure Definition dialog


box appears. Select a vertex at
the end of the bucket claw, as
shown.
4. In the Component drop-down
list, select X-component.
5. In the Evaluation Method
drop-down list, select Maximum.
6. Click OK to return to the Measure
Results dialog box. Click Close.
The measurement you created will calculate the maximum distance
from the default coordinate system for the selected vertex, as the
mechanism goes through its motion.

2012 PTC

Module 1 | Page 21

Step 5:

Analyze the mechanism.

1. In the ribbon, click Mechanism


Analysis
group.

from the Analysis

2. The Analysis Definition dialog


box appears. Select Kinematic
in the Type drop-down list.

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3. Edit the End Time value from 10


to 50 and press ENTER.
4. Click Run.

Evaluate the analysis results.

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1. In the mechanism tree, expand


the ANALYSES node.

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Step 6:

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6. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar to
return the mechanism to its initial
position.

5. Click OK to close the dialog box.

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2. Right-click AnalysisDefinition1
(KINEMATICS) and select Run.

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3. Click Yes in the Confirmation


dialog box.

4. Press CTRL+D.
5. Right-click AnalysisDefinition1
(KINEMATICS) from the
ANALYSES node and select
Run.
6. Click Yes in the Confirmation
dialog box.
7. Click Abort in the Error Assembly
Failed! dialog box.
The second run of the mechanism failed because you did not return
the mechanism to its initial position before running the analysis.
Starting from the end position of the first analysis run caused the
analysis to fail. Setting your mechanism to the initial position before
running an analysis is important.

Module 1 | Page 22

2012 PTC

8. Click Regenerate Model

from the Quick Access toolbar.

9. In the mechanism tree, expand the ANALYSES node.


10. Right-click AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.
11. Click Yes in the Confirmation dialog box.
from the Analysis group.

12. Click Measures

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13. The Measure Results dialog box appears. Select measure1 and
then AnalysisDefinition1.

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The value 2748.27 was calculated as the maximum distance


between the selected vertex and the default coordinate system.
14. Click Close in the Measure Results dialog box.
15. In the mechanism tree, expand the PLAYBACKS node.

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16. Right-click AnalysisDefinition1 and select Play.

17. The Animate dialog box appears. Click Play


box.

in the Animate dialog

18. Slide the Speed bar to increase the speed of the animation.
19. Spin, Pan, and Zoom the model. Notice that these operations can be
performed while the model is being animated.
20. Click Close in the Animate dialog box.
21. Right-click AnalysisDefinition1 from the PLAYBACKS node and
select Save to save the playback to file.
22. Click Save in the Save Analysis Results dialog box.

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Module 1 | Page 23

23. Press CTRL+D.

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24. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar to return
the mechanism to its initial position.

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Click Save
from the Quick Access toolbar.
Click OK in the Save Object dialog box.
Click File > Close to close the LOADER.ASM window.
Click Save and exit in the Save Playbacks dialog box.
Click File > Manage Session > Erase Not Displayed.
Click OK in the Erase Not Displayed dialog box.

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25. Save the mechanism assembly, close the window, and erase all files
from session memory.

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This completes the procedure.

Module 1 | Page 24

2012 PTC

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Module

Creating Mechanism Connections

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Module Overview

In this module, you learn to define motion in an assembly by assembling and


configuring components using various predefined mechanism connection
sets.

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Objectives

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After completing this module, you will be able to:


Create mechanism bodies.
Understand constraints and connection sets.
Understand predefined connection sets.
Configure motion axis settings.
Use Rigid connection sets.
Use Pin connection sets.
Use Slider connection sets.
Use Cylinder connection sets.
Use Planar connection sets.
Use Ball connection sets.
Use Weld connection sets.
Use Bearing connection sets.
Use General connection sets.
Use Slot connection sets.
Create Cam-Follower connections.
Use 3D Contact.
Create Generic gear connections.
Create Dynamic gear connections.
Create Belt connections.
Use the Drag and Snapshot tools.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 1

Creating Mechanism Bodies


A body is a single component or group of components that
moves as a single body within a mechanism.
Mechanism Bodies:

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A single part or sub-assembly that


moves within the mechanism.
A group of components that
move as a single body within the
mechanism.
Placement Constraints:

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Creating Mechanism Bodies

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Components within a mechanism


that do not move.

Figure 1 Four Bodies and


a Ground

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Ground Bodies:

User-Defined Constraints
Mechanism Connection Sets

Mechanism Bodies

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A body is a component or group of components placed in a mechanism using


a predefined connection set. The component or group of components moves
within the mechanism as a single body.

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Creo Parametric automatically defines mechanism bodies based on the


constraints used when positioning components in an assembly. For example,
two parts that are assembled together using constraints (such as Mate and
Insert) and have no remaining degrees of freedom, are each grouped as
a single body. If there is a degree of freedom remaining or the parts are
assembled using predefined connection sets such as Pin, Slider, and so
on, they are each identified as a unique body and they each move as such
within the mechanism.
In Mechanism mode, you can expand each connection listed in the
Mechanism tree to view the identified bodies of the connection. If you select
a body from the Mechanism tree, the part or group of parts that make up that
body are highlighted in the graphics area. If you right-click and select Info
> Details, an information window opens and provides information regarding
the contents of the selected body.

Placement Constraints
There are two types of constraints in the Component Placement dashboard.
You can use standard user-defined constraints such as Coincident, Distance,
and Angle Offset, or you can use predefined connection sets to define
connections such as Pin and Slider. If you assemble two components using
user-defined constraints, but they are only partially constrained, a connection
is assumed.
Module 2 | Page 2

2012 PTC

When assembling components using predefined connection sets, you can


only reference a single body in the assembly and a single body in the
component being placed. When you select the first assembly entity for a
predefined constraint set, you can select reference entities only from the
same body for the remaining constraints of that connection. This is also true
when selecting the component references.

Grounded Components

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Ground bodies in a mechanism do not move with respect to the assembly.


You can include several parts or sub-assemblies in the ground body. To
define a ground body, you fully constrain a component with constraints that
reference the default assembly datums or a part or assembly already in the
ground. If you under-constrain the component, it is not placed in the ground
body and is considered a new body.

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Features belonging to a mechanism body, but with references to


a grounded component, remain in position on the body as it is
dragged. However, the feature position may change if the body is
dragged to a new location and regenerated at that location.

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Module 2 | Page 3

Understanding Constraints and Connection Sets


Constraints define the fixed position of a component while
connections constrain the motion of a component.
User-Defined Constraints:

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Assemble components to form


mechanism bodies.
Are also called standard assembly
constraints.
Include constraints such as Mate,
Align, and Insert.

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Figure 1 Barrel Bolt Assembly

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Assemble components by
constraining motion along axes,
planes, and curves.
Are also called mechanism
connection sets.
Include connections such as Pin,
Cylinder, and Slider.

Predefined Connection Sets:

Understanding Constraints and Connection Sets

In

Constraints define the fixed position of a component while connection sets


constrain the motion of a component.

User-Defined Constraints

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To form bodies in mechanisms, you use standard constraints to assemble


individual models. These bodies act as a single unit and do not move in
relation to one another.

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In the barrel bolt assembly shown, the brown base, gold barrel, and four
screws are assembled using user-defined constraints such as Coincident.
These components do not move in relation to one another because they have
been constrained so that all degrees of freedom (DOF) are removed. These
components form the ground body of the mechanism.
User-defined constraints were also used to assemble the gray bolt and
handle parts that slide in this mechanism. These two components form the
second body of the mechanism.
User-defined constraints can also be referred to as standard
assembly constraints.

Predefined Connection Sets


Connection sets assemble components by constraining motion along certain
axes, planes, and curves. Components assembled with connections are free
to rotate and/or translate about one another. Pin, Cylinder, Slot, and Planar
are examples of connection sets available in Creo Parametric.
Module 2 | Page 4

2012 PTC

Connection sets are important because they enable you to free certain
degrees of freedom (DOF). Therefore, connection sets are not rigid and
enable you to impart realistic motion on your models. In the barrel bolt
assembly shown, a Slot connection set is used to define the motion of the
bolt and handle body as it moves through the mechanism.

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Predefined connection sets can also be referred to as mechanism


connection sets.

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Module 2 | Page 5

Understanding Predefined Connection Sets


Predefined connection sets constrain the motion of a component
while still permitting various degrees of freedom.
Total DOF

Rotation

Translation

Rigid

Pin

Slider

Cylinder

Planar

Ball

Weld

Bearing

General

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0

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Varies

Varies

Varies

Varies

Varies

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Varies

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6dof

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Gimbal
Slot

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Type

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Understanding Predefined Connection Sets


There are several different types of predefined connection sets in Creo
Parametric. The table displays each connection set type and the degrees
of freedom in the set.
Before selecting a predefined connection set, you must understand how
placement constraints and degrees of freedom are used to define movement.
Then you can select the correct connections to define your mechanisms.
The Total DOF column displays the connection's total number of
degrees of freedom. The Rotation and Translation columns then
break down the permitted motion of the mechanism in those terms.

Using Predefined Connection Sets


Select a predefined connection set from the Predefined Connection Set
list in the Component Placement dashboard, within Assembly mode. Use
the connection sets to position components and define movement in your
assembly. Predefined connection sets serve three purposes:
Module 2 | Page 6

2012 PTC

1.
2.

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3.

Define which placement constraints are used to place the component in


the model.
Restrict the motion of bodies relative to each other, reducing the total
possible degrees of freedom (DOF) of the system.
Define the kind of motion a component can have within the mechanism.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 7

Configuring Motion Axis Settings


Use motion axis settings to control the movement of component
connections.
Motion Axis Settings:
Regen Value
Zero Position
Minimum and Maximum Limits
Dynamic Properties

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Figure 1 Regenerated Position

In

Figure 2 Regenerated Position in


Drawing

Figure 3 Evaluating the


Mechanism

Configuring Motion Axis Settings

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Motion axis settings enable you to precisely control the displacement of


connections in the direction of motion. Motion axis settings are important
because they enable you to limit the range of motion and to define the
regenerated configuration of the model. Motion axis settings enable you
to control the motion of a model in each degree of freedom. For example,
a connection with three degrees of freedom has three motion axes that can
be defined.

You can configure motion axis settings to control the following values:
Regen Value The motion axis regeneration value determines the position
of the component in the assembly when the model is regenerated. The
regeneration value of a motion axis is a dimension that can be used in
family tables, relations, and wherever dimensions are used. This value is
ignored during dragging and analysis operations.
Zero Position Sets the dimension controlling the motion of the
connection to be zero, at the components current position.
Minimum and Maximum Limits Limits the minimum and maximum
values that can be used to define the motion of a connection. The
component cannot move outside of these limits either by dragging or by
editing the dimension values.
Module 2 | Page 8

2012 PTC

Dynamic Properties The Dynamic Properties functionality can be used


to set friction and restitution parameters.
Motion axis settings can be set when placing or editing the placement of a
component. Within Mechanism mode, the motion axis of a connection can be
selected in the mechanism tree or graphics window and its definition can be
edited in the Motion Axis dialog box.
Both the Zero Position and Dynamic Properties functionality require
the Mechanism Dynamics Option (MDO). The buttons to access
these tools are not visible if you do not have a license for MDO.

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The Regen Value

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The Regen Value parameter is important for defining the final design position
of each mechanism assembly. This final design position is the position
in which your mechanism is documented and is often assembled to other
components.

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For example, if you dragged the position of a component in the assembly to


a new location and then saved the model, that new position is propagated
to every drawing and assembly in which the mechanism is used. However,
you typically do not want your drawing to change every time the mechanism
is evaluated. The Regen Value parameter can be used to ensure that this
does not happen; each time your mechanism is regenerated, it returns to the
defined regen values assigned to its connections.

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The Regen Value can also be used as flexible dimensions when


adding flexibility to a component. This means a regen value can be
set to define the position of the mechanism in a drawing and also be
made flexible when defining varying assembly positions.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 9

Using Rigid Connection Sets


Use the Rigid connection set to fully constrain a component so
that it has no movement in the mechanism.
Rigid:

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Standard Constraint Types


Motion Eliminated

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Using Rigid Connection Sets

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Figure 1 Motion Eliminated by


a Rigid Connection

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Rigid connection sets are used to connect two components so they do not
move relative to one another. Components connected in such a way become
a single body.

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Similar to the User Defined assembly constraint set, a Rigid connection


set uses any valid combination of standard assembly constraints such
as Coincident, Distance, and Angle Offset to constrain the position of a
component. Rigid connections enable you to group any valid set of assembly
constraints into the connection set. These constraints can be a fully
constrained set or a partially constrained subset.

Motion Eliminated
You cannot use a rigid connection set to connect multiple bodies of a
sub-assembly and still maintain motion in that sub-assembly. When using
a rigid connection to assemble a sub-assembly with Mechanism Design
connections to a master assembly, the sub-assembly is considered as a
ground body and loses its internal motion.
In the assembly shown, if the piston sub-assembly is constrained
using a Rigid connection set at each end of the piston sub-assembly
(referencing both components of the sub-assembly), the motion in
the sub-assembly is lost. A Weld connection set should be used in
situations where multiple components need to be constrained but
motion must be retained.

Module 2 | Page 10

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Using Rigid Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Rigid
Task 1:

RIGID.ASM

Assemble the piston sub-assembly using the Rigid connection set.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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dashboard, select Rigid


from
the User Defined drop-down
menu.

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4. In the Component Placement

3. In the Open dialog box, select


RIGID_PISTON.ASM, then click
Open.

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5. Select the near surface of


PISTON2.PRT and the
bottom surface of the slot in
RIGID_BRACKET.PRT.

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6. In the dashboard, select


Coincident
as the
Constraint Type.

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7. Select the near planar surface


of PISTON2.PRT and the
far surface of the slot in
RIGID_BRACKET.PRT.
8. In the dashboard, select
Coincident
as the
Constraint Type.
9. Select the near planar
surface of PISTON2.PRT
and the near surface of
RIGID_BRACKET.PRT.

10. In the dashboard, select


as the
Coincident
Constraint Type.
11. Click Complete Component
from the Component Placement
dashboard.
2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 11

Task 2:

Rigidly constrain the bottom of the piston sub-assembly.

1. Click Drag Components


from the Component group and
select the red PISTON1.PRT
part from the model tree.
2. Drag the part to observe that the
sub-assembly has maintained its
motion.

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6. Select the bottom surface of


PISTON1.PRT and the surface
at the bottom of the slot in
RIGID_BRACKET.PRT.

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5. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click Placement
and select New Set from the
Placement tab.

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4. In the model tree, right-click


RIGID_PISTON.ASM and select
Edit Definition.

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3. Middle-click to abort the dragging


and click Close in the Drag dialog
box.

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7. In the dashboard, select


Coincident
as the
Constraint Type.

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Notice the Constraints Invalid message in the dashboard.


Adding a rigid connection to a second component of the
sub-assembly has eliminated the motion of the sub-assembly
so these surfaces cannot be coincident. To assemble this
sub-assembly and maintain its motion, the Weld connection set
should be used.

8. Click Cancel Component


confirm.

from the dashboard and click Yes to

This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 12

2012 PTC

Using Pin Connection Sets


Use the Pin connection set to assemble a component with only a
rotational degree of freedom.
Pin Connection Sets:

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Axis Alignment Constraint


Coincident Constraint
Rotation Axis Motion Axis

Using Pin Connection Sets

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Figure 1 A Pin Connection

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A Pin connection set is used to connect a component to a referenced axis, so


the component rotates or moves along this axis with one rotational degree
of freedom.

Using Pin Connection Sets

In

A Pin connection set contains two constraint settings and one rotation axis
setting:

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Axis Alignment This constraint defines the axis that the component is
aligned to and rotates about. The reference can be a selected axis, edge,
curve, or cylindrical surface.
Coincident This defines the component's position along the alignment
axis. The reference can be a selected datum point, vertex, datum plane, or
planar surface.
Rotation Axis This is the rotational motion axis element of the connection
set. You use it to define rotational motion settings for the connection such
as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum limits, and maximum
limits.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 13

PROCEDURE - Using Pin Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Pin
Task 1:

PIN.ASM

Assemble the gear component using the Pin connection set.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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3. In the Open dialog box, select


PIN_GEAR.PRT, then click
Open.

dashboard, select Pin


from
the User Defined drop-down
menu.

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4. In the Component Placement

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5. Select the cylindrical surface


of PIN_BASE.PRT and
the cylindrical surface of
PIN_GEAR.PRT as references
for the Axis Alignment constraint.

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6. Select the top surface of


PIN_BASE.PRT and the
surface on the lower lip of
PIN_GEAR.PRT as references
for the Translation constraint.

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7. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
dashboard.

Module 2 | Page 14

2012 PTC

8. Click Drag Components


from the component tab and
select PIN_GEAR.PRT.
9. Drag the part through its
remaining degree of freedom,
the rotational degree of freedom.
10. Click in the graphics area to
release the model.

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11. Click Close in the Drag dialog


box.

Task 2:

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If you drag a component to a new position, that position will be


reflected in referencing assemblies and drawings. Define a fixed
design position by setting a regeneration value for the model.
Set a regeneration value for the rotational degree of freedom.

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1. In the model tree, right-click PIN_GEAR.PRT and select Edit


Definition.
2. Enable Plane Display

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3. In the dashboard, click


Placement. In the Placement
tab, do the following:
Click Rotation Axis.
In the graphics area, select
ASM_FRONT.
In the graphics area, select
datum plane RIGHT from
PIN_GEAR.PRT.
In the Placement tab, edit the
value of the Current Position
to 90, if necessary, and press
ENTER.
to set the Regen
Click Set
value of the Rotation Axis.
Select the Enable
regeneration value check
box.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 15

4. Click Complete Component


dashboard.
5. Disable Plane Display

from the Component Placement

6. Click Drag Components


PIN_GEAR.PRT.

from the Component group and select

7. Drag the part to a new position.


8. Click in the graphics area to release the model.

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9. Click Close in the Drag dialog box.

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Notice the model has


returned to the regeneration
position you defined in the
previous steps.

10. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar.

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This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 16

2012 PTC

Using Slider Connection Sets


Use the Slider connection set to assemble a component with
only a translational degree of freedom.
Slider Connection Sets:

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Axis Alignment Constraint


Coincident Constraint
Translation Axis Motion
Axis

Using Slider Connection Sets

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Figure 1 A Slider Connection

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A Slider connection set is used to connect a component to a referenced axis,


so the component slides or moves normal to this axis with one translational
degree of freedom.

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Using Slider Connection Sets

In

A Slider connection set contains two constraint settings and one translation
axis setting:

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Axis Alignment This constraint defines the axis that the component
slides along. The reference can be a selected axis, edge, curve, or
cylindrical surface.
Coincident This constraint restricts the components rotation along the
axis of alignment. The reference can be a selected datum plane or other
planar surface.
Translation Axis This is the translational motion axis element of the
connection set. You use it to define translational motion settings for the
connection such as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum
limits, and maximum limits.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 17

PROCEDURE - Using Slider Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Slider
Task 1:

SLIDER.ASM

Assemble the piston components using the Slider connection set.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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4. In the Component Placement


dashboard, select Slider
from the User Defined drop-down
menu.

3. In the Open dialog box, select


SLIDER2.PRT, then click Open.

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5. Select the cylindrical surface of


SLIDER1.PRT and the cylindrical
surface of SLIDER2.PRT as
references for the Axis alignment
constraint.

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6. In the dashboard, select the


Placement tab. Notice that the
Axis Alignment constraint has
been defined and the Rotation
constraint is now active.

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7. Press CTRL+ALT and


middle-click to drag the
component in this yet to be
defined, rotational degree of
freedom (DOF).
8. Select the planar surfaces
shown on SLIDER1.PRT and
SLIDER2.PRT as references for
the Rotation constraint.

9. Press CTRL+ALT and


middle-click to drag the
component again.
Notice that this is no longer
possible since the rotational
DOF has been constrained.

Module 2 | Page 18

2012 PTC

10. Press CTRL+ALT and click (the


left mouse button) to drag the
component again.
Notice that this enables you
to drag the component in the
direction of its motion axis.
11. In the Placement tab, select
Translation Axis.

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12. Spin the model as required


and select the planar surfaces
shown on SLIDER1.PRT and
SLIDER2.PRT.

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13. Configure the motion axis settings:


Edit the value of the Current Position to 80 and press ENTER.
to set the Regen value of the Translation Axis.
Click Set
Select the Enable regeneration value check box.
Select the Minimum Limit check box, edit the value to 80, and
press ENTER.
Select the Maximum Limit check box, edit the value to 425, and
press ENTER.
14. Click Complete Component

from the Component Placement tab.

In

15. Click Drag Components


from the Component group and
select SLIDER2.PRT.

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16. Drag the part through its motion.

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Notice that the model cannot be dragged past the minimum and
maximum translation limits you defined in the Translation Axis.

17. Click in the graphics area to


release the model.
18. Click Close in the Drag dialog
box.

19. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar.
Notice the model has returned to the regeneration position you
defined in the Translation Axis.
This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 19

Using Cylinder Connection Sets


Use the Cylinder connection set to assemble a component with
rotational and transitional degrees of freedom.
Cylinder Connection Sets:

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Axis Alignment Constraint


Translation Axis Motion
Axis
Rotation Axis Motion Axis

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Figure 1 A Cylinder Connection

Using Cylinder Connection Sets

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A Cylinder connection set is used to connect a component to a referenced


axis, so the component moves along and rotates about the axis of alignment
with two degrees of freedom.

Creating Cylinder Connection Sets

In

A Cylinder connection set contains one constraint and two motion axis
settings.

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PT

Axis Alignment This constraint defines the axis along which the
component slides. The reference can be a selected axis, edge, curve,
or cylindrical surface.
Translation Axis This is the translational motion axis element of the
connection set. You use it to define translational motion settings for the
connection such as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum
limits, and maximum limits.
Rotation Axis This is the rotational motion axis element of the connection
set. You use it to define rotational motion settings for the connection such
as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum limits, and maximum
limits.

Module 2 | Page 20

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Using Cylinder Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Cylinder
Task 1:

CYLINDER.ASM

Assemble the component using the Cylinder connection set.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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3. In the Open dialog box, select


CYLINDER2.PRT, then click
Open.

4. In the Component Placement dashboard, select Cylinder


the User Defined drop-down menu.

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5. In the Component Placement dashboard, click Placement to open


the Placement tab.

In

The Axis Alignment constraint is active and neither the


Translation Axis nor Rotation Axis selections are visible.

PT

6. Select the cylindrical surface


of CYLINDER1.PRT and
the cylindrical surface of
CYLINDER2.PRT as references
for the Axis Alignment constraint.

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7. If necessary, click Flip in the


Placement tab to orient the small
boss, as shown.

8. Press CTRL+ALT and


middle-click to rotate the
component to a position, as
shown.
9. Select Translation Axis.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 21

10. Select the planar surfaces


shown on CYLINDER1.PRT and
CYLINDER2.PRT as references
for the Translation Axis motion.

12. Select the Enable regeneration value check box.

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11. Edit the value of the Current


Position to 0 and press ENTER.

13. Select the Minimum Limit check box, edit the value to 0, and press
ENTER.

15. Select Rotation Axis.

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17. Edit the value of the Current


Position to 180 and press
ENTER.

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16. Select the planar surfaces


shown on CYLINDER1.PRT and
CYLINDER2.PRT as references
for the Rotation Axis motion.

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14. Select the Maximum Limit check box, edit the value to 130, and
press ENTER.

to set the Regen value of the Translation Axis.

18. Click Set

19. Select the Enable regeneration value check box.

PT

20. Select the Minimum Limit check box, edit the value to 130, and
press ENTER.

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21. Select the Maximum Limit check box, edit the value to 180, and
press ENTER.

22. Click Complete Component

from the Component Placement tab.

23. Click Drag Components


from the Component group and
select CYLINDER2.PRT.
24. Drag the part through its motion.

Module 2 | Page 22

2012 PTC

Notice that you cannot drag the component beyond the minimum
and maximum limits.
25. Click in the graphics area to
release the model.
26. Click Close in the Drag dialog
box.

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27. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar.

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This completes the procedure.

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Notice the model has returned to the regeneration position you


defined in the Motion Axes.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 23

Using Planar Connection Sets


Use the Planar connection set to assemble a component with
rotational and transitional degrees of freedom.
Planar Connection Sets:

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Planar Constraint
Translation Axis 1 Motion
Axis
Translation Axis 2 Motion
Axis
Rotation Axis Motion Axis

Using Planar Connection Sets

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Figure 1 A Planar Connection

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A Planar connection set is used to connect a component to a referenced


planar surface that the component moves along that plane, with three
degrees of freedom.

In

Using Planar Connection Sets

A Planar connection set contains one constraint and three motion axis
settings. There are two degrees of freedom in the referenced plane and one
degree of freedom around an axis perpendicular to it.

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PT

Planar This constraint defines the parallel plane that the component
moves along. The constraint is a single planar mate or align constraint
that can be flipped or offset as required. The reference can be a selected
planar surface or datum plane.
Translation Axis 1 This is the first translational motion axis element of
the connection set. You use it to define translational motion settings for
the connection such as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum
limits, and maximum limits.
Translation Axis 2 This is the second translational motion axis element
of the connection set. You use it to define translational motion settings for
the connection such as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum
limits, and maximum limits.
Rotation Axis This is the rotational motion axis element of the connection
set. You use it to define rotational motion settings for the connection such
as the zero position, regenerated position, minimum limits, and maximum
limits.

Module 2 | Page 24

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Using Planar Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Planar
Task 1:

PLANAR.ASM

Assemble the component using the Planar connection set.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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dashboard, select Planar


from the User Defined drop-down
menu.

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4. In the Component Placement

3. In the Open dialog box, select


PLANAR2.PRT, then click Open.

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5. Select the planar surface at


the top of PLANAR1.PRT and
the bottom of PLANAR2.PRT
as references for the Planar
constraint.

6. Enable Plane Display

and Point Display

PT

7. In the dashboard, click Placement to open the Placement tab.


8. Select Translation1.

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9. In the graphics area, select


datum plane RIGHT and datum
point CONNECT_REF.

10. Edit the value of the Current


Position to 0 and press ENTER.
11. Select the Enable regeneration
value check box.
12. Select the Minimum Limit check box, edit the value to -28, and
press ENTER.
13. Select the Maximum Limit check box, edit the value to 28, and press
ENTER.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 25

14. Select Translation Axis 2.


15. In the graphics area, select
datum plane FRONT and datum
point CONNECT_REF.
16. Edit the value of the Current
Position to 0 and press ENTER.

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17. Select the Enable regeneration


value check box.

18. Select the Minimum Limit check box, edit the value to -28, and
press ENTER.

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19. Select the Maximum Limit check box, edit the value to 28, and press
ENTER.

21. In the graphics area, select the


datum plane FRONT from both
models.

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20. Select Rotation Axis.

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22. If necessary, edit the value of the


Current Position to 0 and press
ENTER.

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23. Select the Enable regeneration


value check box.

PT

24. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
tab.
25. Disable Plane Display

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Point Display

and

26. Click Drag Components


from the Component group, then
select PLANAR2.PRT and drag
it through its motion.

You can drag the component in all three DOF but you cannot
drag the component beyond the minimum and maximum limits
you have defined.

Module 2 | Page 26

2012 PTC

27. Click in the graphics area to


release the model.
28. Click Close in the Drag dialog
box.

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29. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar.

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PT

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This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 27

Using Ball Connection Sets


Use the Ball connection set to assemble a component with three
rotational degrees of freedom.
Ball Connection Sets:

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Point Coincident Constraint


No Motion Axis

Using Ball Connection Sets

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Figure 1 A Ball Connection

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A Ball connection set connects a component at a point so it can rotate in any


direction with three degrees of freedom.

Using Ball Connection Sets

In

A Ball connection set contains one Point Alignment constraint, three degrees
of freedom, but no motion axis settings.

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Point Coincident This constraint defines the point that the component
rotates about. The constraint is a single point to point alignment. Select a
datum point or vertex as the alignment references.
No Motion Axes This connection set contains no motion axes to control
or limit the rotation about the constraint point. However, as with any
connection, additional connection sets can be added to limit the motion of
the connected component.
In situations where you need to connect a true ball or sphere
(rather than a point or vertex), create a datum point at the center
of the sphere using the sphere as reference and the At Center
option, as shown.

Module 2 | Page 28

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Using Ball Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Ball
Task 1:

BALL.ASM

Assemble the component using the Ball connection set.

1. Enable only the following Datum


.

Display types:

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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3. In the Open dialog box, select


LEVER.PRT, then click Open.
4. In the Component Placement

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dashboard, select Ball


from
the User Defined drop-down
menu.

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5. If necessary, click 3D Dragger

in the Component Placement


dashboard to hide the 3D
Dragger.

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6. In the graphics area, select


both datum points named
BALL_REF.
7. Disable Point Display

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8. In the dashboard, click Placement to open the Placement tab.


Notice that there are no motion axes to define for the Ball
connection set.

9. Click Complete Component

2012 PTC

from the Component Placement tab.

Module 2 | Page 29

10. Click Drag Components


from the Component group,
select LEVER.PRT, and drag it
through its three DOF.
11. Click in the graphics area to
release the model.

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12. Click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access toolbar.

Because there is no motion axis control, the model remains in the


position it was placed, even after regeneration.

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PT

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This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 30

2012 PTC

Using Weld Connection Sets


Use Weld connections to rigidly constrain a sub-assembly, yet
maintain open degrees of freedom in the sub-assembly.
Weld:

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Coordinate System to
Coordinate System
Fully Constrained
Maintains Movement

Figure 1 Weld Connections

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Using Weld Connection Sets

In

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As with the Rigid connections set, the Weld connection set is used to connect
two components so they do not move relative to one another. Components
connected in such a way become a single body. Unlike the Rigid connection
set, the Weld connection enables sub-assemblies to be rigidly constrained,
yet it also enables for open degrees of freedom in the sub-assembly to be
maintained.

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In the assembly shown, both ends of the piston sub-assembly


are connected with a weld connection. This enables the piston
sub-assembly to maintain its defined motion, so it can compress
and expand as the bracket is flexed. This is not possible when
using the rigid connection set.

Creating a Weld Connection


You create a weld connection by aligning coordinate systems, just as you do
using the standard Coord Sys

constraint.

In most cases, prior to the assembly operation, you have to create


coordinate systems that properly position the components. You
need to create one coordinate system for the component reference
and one for the assembly reference.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 31

PROCEDURE - Using Weld Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Weld
Task 1:

WELD.ASM

Assemble the piston sub-assembly using the Weld connection set.

1. Enable only the following Datum


Display types:

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble

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5. Select the coordinate system


TOP_WELD_REF from both
models.

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dashboard, select Weld


from
the User Defined drop-down
menu.

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4. In the Component Placement

from the Component group.


3. In the Open dialog box, select
WELD_PISTON.ASM, then click
Open.

In

6. In the Component Placement


dashboard, click Placement
and select New Set from the
Placement tab.

PT

7. Select the coordinate system


BOTTOM_WELD_REF from
both models.

Fo
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8. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
tab.
The motion defined in the piston sub-assembly enables it to
expand and span the length of the bracket.

Module 2 | Page 32

2012 PTC

Task 2:

Verify the connections.

1. Disable Csys Display

2. Click Drag Components


from the Component group, then
select the WELD_PISTON.ASM.
Move it to verify the connection.

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3. Observe that there is no


movement because each end of
the piston is fixed with a weld
connection set.

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5. Click Settings
from the
model tree and select Tree
Filters.

4. Click Close in the Drag dialog


box.

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6. In the Model Tree Items dialog


box, select the Features check
box under Display and click OK.

In

7. In the model tree, expand


WELD_BRACKET.PRT, then
right-click Extrude 1 and select
Edit.

8. Edit the dimension 1500 to 1600


and press ENTER.

Fo
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PT

9. Click Regenerate
from the
Quick Access toolbar.
The motion defined in the piston sub-assembly enables it to
expand as the bracket changes.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 33

10. In the model tree, expand


WELD_BRACKET.PRT, if
necessary, then right-click
Extrude 1 and select Edit.
11. Edit the dimension 1600 to 1300
and press ENTER.

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12. Click Regenerate


from the
Quick Access toolbar.

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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

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The motion defined in the piston sub-assembly enables it to


compress as the bracket changes.

Module 2 | Page 34

2012 PTC

Using Bearing Connection Sets


Use the Bearing connection set to assemble a component with
four degrees of freedom.
Bearing Connection Sets:

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Point Alignment Point on


Line Constraint
Translation Axis Motion
Axis

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Using Bearing Connection Sets

Figure 1 A Bearing Connection

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A Bearing connection set is really a combination of both Ball and Slider


connections with four degrees of freedom. It is used to connect a point
to a referenced axis, so the component moves along the axis with one
translational degree of freedom and three rotational degrees of freedom.

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Using Bearing Connection Sets

A Bearing connection set contains one constraint and one translation axis
setting.

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PT

In

Point Alignment This constraint defines the connection between a point


and axis that the component is aligned to and rotates about. The point
reference can be a datum point or vertex. The second reference can be an
edge, axis, or curve.
Translation Axis This defines the component's position along the
alignment axis. The reference can be a selected datum point, vertex,
datum plane, or planar surface.
There are no axis settings for the three rotational degrees of
freedom.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 35

PROCEDURE - Using Bearing Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Bearing
Task 1:

BEARING.ASM

Assemble the component using the Bearing connection set.

1. Enable only the following Datum


.

Display types:

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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble


from the Component group.

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5. If necessary, click 3D Dragger

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4. In the Component Placement


dashboard, select Bearing
from the User Defined drop-down
menu.

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3. In the Open dialog box, select


BEARING2.PRT, then click
Open.

In

in the Component Placement


dashboard to hide the 3D
Dragger.

6. Select the datum point CENTER


and axis A_1 in the graphics.

PT

7. Disable Axis Display


Point Display

and

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8. In the Component Placement dashboard, select the Placement tab


and do the following:
Click Translation1.
Click the Placement tab to close it.
from the model tree and select Tree Filters.
Click Settings
In the Model Tree Items dialog box, select the Features check box
under Display and click OK.
In the model tree, select ASM_RIGHT.
In the dashboard, select the Placement tab to reopen it.
Edit the value of the Current Position to 15 and press ENTER.
to set the Regen value of the Translation Axis.
Click Set
Select the Enable regeneration value check box.

Module 2 | Page 36

2012 PTC

9. Select the Minimum Limit check box, edit the value to 15, and press
ENTER.
10. Select the Maximum Limit check box, edit the value to 185, and
press ENTER.

13. Drag the part through its degrees


of freedom.

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14. Click in the graphics area to


release the model.

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12. Click Drag Components


from the Component group and
select BEARING2.PRT.

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11. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
tab.

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15. Click Close in the Drag dialog


box.

PT

In

It seems to be more difficult to control the movement of a


component that contains three DOF when dragging.
Because of the translation axis controls, the component does not
move past the ends of the model.
16. Click Regenerate
from the
Quick Access toolbar.

Fo
r

The model returns to the


Regen value defined in the
translation axis. There is no
axis control for the rotational
degrees of freedom so
the model remains at the
rotation it was dragged to.

This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 37

Using General Connection Sets


Use the General connection set to create any number of degrees
of freedom in your model.
General Connection Sets:

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One or two constraints.


Varying translation and
rotational Axis Settings.
Number and type of
Axis Settings dependent
on number and type of
constraints.

Using General Connection Sets

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Figure 1 A General Connection

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When specific predefined connection sets do not adequately define your


mechanism, use the General connection set to create any desired number of
degrees of freedom when connecting your model. After you determine the
number of degrees of freedom, you can create the required type of general
connection by selecting one or two placement constraints in the Placement
dashboard.

In

After defining the placement constraint or constraints, you are presented


with a number of axis settings. The type and number of axis settings varies,
depending on the number and type of constraints that were used to constrain
your model.

Fo
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PT

Most of the Creo Parametric constraints and relevant references are enabled
for your selection when you define the general connection. However, the
following constraint types cannot be used to define a General connection:
A point on a non-linear curve or a non-planar surface.
A Tangency constraint.

Module 2 | Page 38

2012 PTC

Using Slot Connection Sets


Use the Slot connection set to make a point on a component
connect to and follow a 2-D or 3-D trajectory.
Slot Connection Sets:

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Point Alignment Point on


Line Constraint
Slot Axis Motion Axis

Figure 1 A 3-D Slot Connection

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Using Slot Connection Sets

A Slot connection has four degrees of freedom. As the reference point


follows the trajectory, it is free to rotate in the X, Y, and Z directions. Start and
endpoints of the trajectory can be configured using the slot axis settings.

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Use the Slot connection when you want to make a point connect to and follow
a 2-D or 3-D trajectory.

Using Slot Connection Sets

A Slot connection set contains one constraint setting and one slot axis setting.

PT

In

Point Alignment This constraint defines the connection between a point


and the trajectory that the point follows. The point reference can be a
datum point or vertex. The trajectory reference can be an edge or curve.
To select multiple segments, press CTRL when selecting.
Slot Axis This defines the start and endpoints of the trajectory. The
reference can be a selected datum point or vertex.

Fo
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In the assembly shown, a Cylinder connection is also used so the


barrel of the mechanism stays on track as the sub-assembly moves
along the slot.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 39

PROCEDURE - Using Slot Connection Sets


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Slot
Task 1:

SLOT.ASM

Assemble the component using the Slot connection set.

1. Enable only the following Datum


Display types:

nl
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2. In the ribbon, click Assemble

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4. In the Component Placement

from the Component group.


3. In the Open dialog box, select
SLOT_BARREL.ASM, then click
Open.

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dashboard, select Cylinder


from the User Defined drop-down
menu.

PT

In

5. Select the cylindrical surface


of SLOT_BARREL.PRT and
SLOT_BASE.PRT.

Fo
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6. In the Component Placement dashboard, select the Placement tab


and click New Set.
7. In the dashboard, select Slot
menu.

from the Cylinder

drop-down

8. If necessary, click 3D Dragger


in the Component Placement
dashboard to hide the 3D
Dragger.

9. Press CTRL and select five


segments of the trajectory curve
shown. (There are two small
segments at each end.)
10. Select the datum point SLOT.

Module 2 | Page 40

2012 PTC

11. On the Placement tab, click Slot.


12. Select the far right endpoint of
the trajectory curve; this is the
zero location.

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The model may temporarily


shift out of position. This
will be corrected when the
connection is completed.

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15. Select the Maximum Limit


check box and select the far left
endpoint of the trajectory curve.

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14. Select the Minimum Limit check


box and select the far right
endpoint of the trajectory curve;
this is the zero location.

13. Select the Enable regeneration


value check box.

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16. Click Complete Component


on the Component Placement
tab.

In

17. Click Point Display

from the Component group and select

PT

18. Click Drag Components


SLOT_BARREL.ASM.

to disable their display.

Fo
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19. Drag the part through its degrees


of freedom.

20. Click in the graphics window to


release the model.
21. Click Close in the Drag dialog
box.
from the
22. Click Regenerate
Quick Access toolbar.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 41

The model returns to the Regen value defined as the far right
endpoint of the trajectory.

Fo
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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 42

2012 PTC

Creating Cam-Follower Connections


Use Cam-Follower connections to create cam and follower
motions in a 2-D plane.
Cam-Follower Connections:

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Cam-Follower Connection
Definition dialog box
Cam1 and Cam2 Definition
Cam-Follower Properties

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Figure 1 A Cam-Follower Connection

Using Cam-Follower Connections

In

Unlike most connections in Creo Parametric, the Cam-Follower connection is


not found in the assembly dashboard. The Cam-Follower connection tool is

PT

from
only available in Mechanism mode and is started by clicking Cams
the Connections group in the ribbon. The connection is then applied to a
component that has been previously placed in the assembly and is meant to
define the remaining degree of freedom.

Fo
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While Cam-Follower connections are applied to 3-D models, the connection


is treated as a two-dimensional connection when performing an analysis.

Creating Cam-Follower Connections

In the Cam-Follower Connection Definition dialog box, the following


connection elements are defined:
In the Cam1 and Cam2 tabs, select the extruded surface or 2-D curve that
defines the profile of the cam. When you select cam surfaces, the surface
normal direction is indicated in the graphics window by a magenta arrow.
This is the cam side to be used for cam contact.
Autoselect If you select the Autoselect check box, surfaces for your
cam are automatically chosen after you select the first surface. If there
is more than one possible adjacent surface, you are prompted to select
a second surface.
Flip To reverse the direction of the surface normal for the cam, click
Flip. If the selected surfaces are on a volume, the default normal
direction is out, and the Flip button is inactive.
2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 43

Working Plane If you select a straight curve or edge, the dialog box
expands, activating the Working Plane collector. Use the selection
arrow to select a point, vertex, planar solid surface, or datum plane to
define a working plane for the cam.
You can select a straight curve or edge for only one of the
two cams.

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Depth Display Settings If you select a surface, you can use the
following items to orient the cam on the surface:
Automatic (not available for a curve, edge, or flat planar surface)
Front & Back
Front, Back & Depth
Center & Depth
Properties On the Properties tab, you can define the following:
Enable Liftoff If you want to enable your cam-follower connection to
separate during a drag operation or analysis run, you must select the
Enable Liftoff check box.
Friction If you have a Mechanism Dynamics Option license, you can
define friction coefficients and a coefficient of restitution for cams with
liftoff.

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Tips for Creating Cam-Follower Connections

Fo
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PT

In

Keep the following points in mind when defining and using cam-follower
connections:
Creo Parametric defines cams as extending infinitely in the extrusion
direction.
A cam-follower connection does not prevent the cam from tipping. When
required, add additional constraints to prevent parts from tipping.
Each cam can have only one follower. If you want to model a cam with
multiple followers, you must define a new cam-follower connection for
each new pair.
Try to avoid a design with a connection along a straight line in the working
plane.

Module 2 | Page 44

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Creating Cam-Follower Connections


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Connection_Cam-Follower
Task 1:

CAM-FOLLOW.ASM

Use the Cam-Follower connection to constrain the model.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

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2. Click Drag Components

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4. Click in the graphics area to


release the model.

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3. Drag the part to view the


remaining degree of freedom
that will be controlled by the
Cam-Follower connection.

from the Component


group and select the red
CAM_LEVER.PRT.

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5. Click Close in the Drag dialog


box.

In

6. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.


from the Motion group.

PT

7. Click Mechanism

8. Click Cams
from the
Connections group.

Fo
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9. Press CTRL and select the


four curve segments that define
Cam1, as shown.

10. Click OK in the Select dialog box


when finished.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 45

11. Select the Cam2 tab.


12. Select the bottom, radial surface
of CAM_LEVER.PRT that will
connect to Cam1.
13. Click OK in the Select dialog box
when finished.

17. Click in the graphics area to


release the model.

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18. Click Close in the Drag dialog


box.

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16. Drag the cam-follower


connection through its motion.

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15. Click Drag Components


from the Motion group and select
the gray CAM.PRT.

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14. Click OK to close the


Cam-Follower Connection
Definition dialog box.

PT

In

from the
19. Click Regenerate
Quick Access toolbar.

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The regeneration does not cause the model to move because


there is no Motion Axis or Regen Value to define in a
Cam-Follower connection. The initial position of a Cam-Follower
connection must be defined in a servo motor.

This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 46

2012 PTC

3D Contact
3D Contact simulates contact between bodies in three
dimensional motion.
3D Contact:

U
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Is based on real material


properties.
Uses static and sliding friction.

Figure 1 3D Contact

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3D Contact

PT

In

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Using 3D Contact you can simulate contact between bodies in three


dimensional motion. The system includes static and sliding friction in its
calculations, which are based on real material properties such as Poisson's
ratio, Young's modulus, and a damping coefficient. 3D contact can be defined
from a single analytical surface such as a spherical, cylindrical, or planar
surface to multiple other analytical surfaces. Contact can also be defined
from a vertex to other surfaces. The three dimensional contact is also active
while dragging.

Fo
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In figure 1, 3D contact is used to simulate dropping a rubber cube into a box


to visualize the cube bouncing and rotating, and coming to rest.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 47

PROCEDURE - 3D Contact
Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\3D_Contact
Task 1:

TABLE.ASM

Edit an existing 3D contact model.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.


2. Click Settings

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from the model tree and select Tree Filters.

3. In the Model Tree Items dialog box, select the Features check box
under Display and click OK.

In

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7. In the dashboard, select the


References tab and do the
following:
In the Contact Reference
2 list, right-click
Surf:F7(REVOLVE_1):TABLE
and select Remove.

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6. In the 3D Contact dashboard,


select No Friction from the With
Friction drop-down menu.

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5. Right-click Contact 1 and select Edit Definition.

4. In the model tree, expand CUBE1.PRT, if necessary.

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PT

8. Click Complete Component


from the 3D Contact dashboard.

Module 2 | Page 48

2012 PTC

Task 2:

Insert a new contact.

1. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.
2. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

from the

O
U
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In

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4. In the 3D Contact dashboard,


click References. On the
References tab, do the following:
Click in the Contact
Reference 1: field. In
the graphics window, select
the left face of CUBE1.PRT.
Click in the Contact
References 2: field. In
the graphics window, select
the base circle of TABLE.PRT.

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3. Click 3D Contacts
from the
Connections group. The 3D
Contact dashboard appears.

5. In the dashboard, select the Contact tab. Verify that Default is listed
for Side 1 and Side 2 contact properties.

PT

6. In the dashboard, select With Friction from the No Friction drop-down


menu. Input fields appear for static and kinetic coefficients of friction.

Fo
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7. Select 0.1 from the drop-down list for both static and kinetic
coefficients of friction.
8. Click Complete Component

Task 3:

from the 3D Contact dashboard.

Run the model.

1. In the mechanism tree, expand


ANALYSES.
2. Right-click 3D_contact_
dynamic(DYNAMICS) and
select Run.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 49

Task 4:

Play back the model run.

1. In the mechanism tree, expand


PLAYBACKS.
2. Right-click 3D_contact_
dynamic and select Play.
3. The Animate dialog box appears.
Click Play

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4. Click Close from the Animate


dialog box.

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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 50

2012 PTC

Creating Generic Gear Connections


Capture any Rotational or Linear relationship using Generic gear
connections.

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Generic gear definition options:


Pitch circle diameters
Enter ratio values
Motion relationships:
Rotational/Rotational
Rotational/Linear
Linear/Rotational
Linear/Linear

Figure 2 Rotational/Linear
Example

In

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Figure 1 Gear Example

PT

Creating Generic Gear Connections

Fo
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You can create a generic type gear connection, to capture any rotational or
linear relationship between components. When using the generic gear type,
you are able to specify either two pitch circle diameters, or motion ratio values.
Generic gears can be used to create a simple gear train but, unlike dynamic
gear types, generic gear components do not actually have to touch.
Therefore, they can be located in different locations within the assembly,
enabling you to create rotational and/or linear relationships between any set
of components.
You can capture the following motion relationships using generic gears:

Rotational/Rotational
Rotational/Linear
Linear/Rotational
Linear/Linear

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 51

PROCEDURE - Creating Generic Gear Connections


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Generic_Gears
Task 1:

GEARBOX.ASM

Create a generic gear connection for simple gears.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

O
U
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4. Click Mechanism
from the
Motion group.
Notice the existing gear
connection.

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3. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.

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2. Press CTRL+ALT and drag each


of the three gears.
Notice the right gear
connection is not created
yet.

In

5. Click Gears
from the
Connections group.
Select Generic as the type.

Fo
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PT

6. Select the pin joint for the lower


center gear, as shown.
Type 12 for the Pitch Circle
Diameter.

Module 2 | Page 52

2012 PTC

7. Select the Gear 2 tab from the


Gear Pair Definition dialog box.
Select the pin joint for the
upper-right gear.
Type 46 for the Pitch Circle
Diameter.
Click OK from the Gear Pair
Definition dialog box.

from the Quick


Click Close
Access toolbar.

Create Rotational and Linear relationships using generic gears.

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1. Click Working Directory


from the Common Folders.
Double-click GENERIC_
GEARS.ASM.

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Task 2:

to drag connected

U
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You can also click Drag Components


components.

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8. Press CTRL+ALT and drag any


of the three gears.

In

2. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.

from the

PT

3. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

Fo
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from the
4. Click Gears
Connections group.
Select Generic as the type.

5. Select the pin joint on the left


rotational control knob.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 53

6. Select the Gear 2 tab in the Gear


Pair Definition dialog box.
Select the pin joint on the left
indicator needle.
Click Flip Rotation

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7. Select the Properties tab.


Select User Defined as the
gear ratio type.
Type 1 for D1.
Type 2.5 for D2.
Click OK in the Gear Pair
Definition dialog box.

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9. Click Gears
from the
Connections group.
Select Generic as the type.

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8. Press CTRL+ALT and drag


either the knob or the needle.

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10. Select the pin joint on the center


indicator needle.

PT

In

11. Select the Gear 2 tab in the Gear


Pair Definition dialog box.
Select the slider joint on the
center linear control knob.
Click Flip Rotation

Fo
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12. Select the Properties tab.


Click User Defined as the
gear ratio type.
Type 200 for the ratio.
Click OK in the Gear Pair
Definition dialog box.
13. Press CTRL+ALT and drag
either the knob or the needle.

Module 2 | Page 54

2012 PTC

14. Click Gears


from the
Connections group.
Select Generic as the type.
15. Select the slider joint on the right
linear control knob.

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17. Select the Properties tab.


Notice User Defined is the
rack ratio type.
Type 1.2 as the ratio.
Click OK in the Gear Pair
Definition dialog box.

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16. Select the Gear 2 tab in the Gear


Pair Definition dialog box.
Select the slider joint on the
right indicator.

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18. Press CTRL+ALT and drag


either the knob or the indicator.

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PT

In

This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 55

Creating Dynamic Gear Connections


Create different types of common gear connections.
Types
Spur
Bevel
Rack and Pinion
Worm
Gear Properties
Pitch Diameter
Pressure Angle
Helix Angle
Bevel Angle
Screw Angle

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Figure 1 Spur Gears

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Figure 2 Bevel Gears

In

Figure 3 Worm Gears

Figure 4 Rack and Pinion Gears

Creating Dynamic Gear Connections

Fo
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PT

You can create gear connections in Mechanism mode that utilize


manufacturing tooth angles to determine their motion properties. Properties
such as pitch diameter, pressure angle, helix, bevel, and screw angles
are used to compute motion, as well as kinematic and dynamic analyses.
Dynamic analyses can include reaction forces based on the tooth geometry
at the location where the pitch diameters meet. The system can automatically
calculate pitch circle diameters and bevel angles.
Examples of the four dynamic gear types include:

Spur Two meshing gears rotating on parallel axes.


Bevel A pinion gear driving a crown gear on perpendicular axes.
Rack and Pinion A pinion gear meshing with a sliding rack gear.
Worm A worm shaft rotating a pinion on perpendicular axes.

Dynamic gears also have several properties you can define:


Pitch Diameter Specify a pitch diameter for the first gear in the pair,
and the corresponding pitch diameter is automatically calculated. You
can also use the User Defined option to manually input both values or the
ratio manually.
Pressure Angle A gear tooth pressure angle for all gear types.
Module 2 | Page 56

2012 PTC

Helix Angle A gear tooth Helix angle for Spur, Bevel, and Rack and
Pinion gears.
Bevel Angle Determined automatically for Bevel Gears based on
geometry.
Screw Angle Defines the screw angle for worm gears.
Icon Location Defines a plane to display and calculate the gear
connection.
Once defined, you can simply press CTRL+ALT to drag gears in
Standard Assembly mode or in Mechanism mode.

Fo
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PT

In

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to drag connected
You can also click Drag Components
components with additional options, such as creating snapshots.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 57

PROCEDURE - Creating Dynamic Gear Connections


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Dynamic_Gears
Task 1:

SPUR_GEARS.ASM

Create a Spur gear connection.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

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2. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.

from the
4. Click Gears
Connections group.
Select Spur as the type.

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5. Select the pin joint on the smaller


gear.
Type 100 for the Diameter and
press ENTER.

U
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from the

In

6. Select the Gear 2 tab in the Gear


Pair Definition dialog box.
Select the pin joint on the
larger gear.

PT

7. Select the Properties tab.


Type 20 for the helix angle
and press ENTER.
Click OK.

Fo
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8. Press CTRL+ALT and drag


either gear.
from the Quick
Click Close
Access toolbar.
You can also click Drag Components
components.

Module 2 | Page 58

to drag connected

2012 PTC

Task 2:

Create a Bevel gear connection.

1. Click Working Directory


from the Common Folders.
Double-click BEVEL_GEARS.ASM.
2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.
3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

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6. Disable Plane Display

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.
Enable Plane Display
Select DTM1 as the icon
location.

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5. Select the pin joint on the large


crown gear.
Type 175 for the Diameter and
press ENTER.

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4. Click Gears
from the
Connections group.
Select Bevel as the type.

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7. Select the Gear 2 tab in the Gear


Pair Definition dialog box.
Select the pin joint on the
smaller pinion gear.

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8. Select the Properties tab.


Type 36 for the helix angle
and press ENTER.
Click OK in the Gear Pair
Definition dialog box.

9. Press CTRL+ALT and drag


either gear.
from the Quick
Click Close
Access toolbar.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 59

Task 3:

Examine the Rack and Pinion and Worm gear connections.

1. Click Working Directory


from the Common Folders.
Double-click RACK_PINION_
GEARS.ASM.
2. Press CTRL+ALT and drag
either gear.

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4. Press CTRL+ALT and drag


either gear.

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3. Click Working Directory


.
Double-click WORM_GEARS.
ASM.

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from the Quick


Click Close
Access toolbar.

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from the Quick


Click Close
Access toolbar.

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This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 60

2012 PTC

Creating Belt Connections


Create belts that connect pulleys to create and analyze motion.

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Connect pulleys for rotation


Planar belt path
Belt length
Belt flexibility
Create belt model
From belt curve

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Figure 1 Original Model

Figure 2 Belt Created

Figure 3 Belt Modified

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Creating Belt Connections

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In Mechanism mode, you create belts in a planar path that connect pulleys
to transmit rotation. Belt length and flexibility can be controlled. Once a belt
connection is defined, you can create a part model containing the belt curve.
From this curve, you can create solid geometry to represent the belt.

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Belts have several options:


Belt Direction Indicates on which side the belt travels around the pulley.
Pulley Diameter By default is coincident to the selected pulley surface.
You can also specify a value from the dashboard or on-screen leaders.
Number of Wraps Indicates the number of wraps the belt should take
around the pulley. The default is 1 wrap.
Belt Length Belts default to a natural length defined by the belt path.
You can then specify a fixed length.
Belt Plane A selected plane that defines the centerline of the belt path.
Flexibility Indicates a set value for the E*A parameter. (Youngs Modulus
multiplied by cross-section area.)
Body Definition Indicates which body is defined as the moving pulley
body versus the stationary carrier body.
You can perform kinematic and dynamic analyses of belts and
pulleys in Mechanism mode.
2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 61

PROCEDURE - Creating Belt Connections


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Belts
Task 1:

BELT_PULLEY.ASM

Create a belt on an existing pulley mechanism.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

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2. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.

from the

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from the
4. Click Belts
Connections group.

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6. Press CTRL and select the


cylindrical surface from the idler
pulley.

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5. Press CTRL and select


cylindrical surfaces from the
two main pulleys.

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7. Right-click the belt handle on the


idler pulley and select Flip Belt
Direction.
Notice the belt now follows a
different path.

Module 2 | Page 62

2012 PTC

8. Type 80 for the E*A value and


press ENTER.
.
9. Click User-Defined Length
Type 1250 for the belt length
and press ENTER.
10. Click Complete Feature
the Belt dashboard.

from

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1. Select the belt, then right-click


and select Make Part.
Type BELT as the Name and
click OK.
Click Browse.
Select TEMPLATE.PRT.
Click Open and OK.

Create a solid belt part and some solid geometry.

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Task 2:

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11. Press CTRL+ALT and drag any


of the pulleys.

2. Right-click and select Default


Constraint.

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3. Click Complete Component


from the Component Placement
dashboard.

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4. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.
5. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

from the

6. Right-click BELT.PRT in the


model tree and select Activate.
7. Click User-Defined Feature
from the Get data group.
Select FLAT_BELT.GPH and
click Open. Click OK.
Select the belt curve in
the graphics window and
in
click Apply Changes
the User Defined Feature
Placement dialog box.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 63

8. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.
9. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

from the

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10. Select the belt in the graphics


window, then right-click and
select Edit Definition.
Type 1200 as the length and
press ENTER.
Click Complete Feature
from the Belt dashboard.

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This completes the procedure.

Click Regenerate
from the
Quick Access toolbar.

Module 2 | Page 64

2012 PTC

Using the Drag and Snapshot Tools


Use the drag and snapshot tools to move and save your
mechanism in various positions.
Drag Components
Point Drag

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Body Drag
Snapshots

Figure 1 Weld Connections

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Using the Drag and Snapshot Tools

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One method of verifying the connections you have made is to drag the
assembly through its range of motion. To drag components through their
motion and open the Drag dialog box, click Drag Components
then click a part model.

and

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The components move according to the connections that have been applied.
The selected entity is always positioned as close as possible to the cursor
location while the rest of the components stay connected to each other.

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To quit dragging, you can either middle-click to return the components to their
original position, or you can click to leave the components at their current
position.

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The Drag Dialog Box


Within the Drag dialog box, you can work with the following tools:
Point Drag
Click selected edges, points, axes, datum planes, or
surfaces and drag them to initiate the dragging movement. This is the
default dragging option.
Body Drag
Click a selected body and drag it. When you drag a body,
its position in the graphics window changes but its orientation remains
fixed. If the assembly requires that a body be reoriented in conjunction
with a change in position, the body does not move at all, since the model
cannot reassemble in the new position. Should this happen, try using point
dragging instead.
Snapshots Use the Snapshots tab to display and create a list of saved
snapshots of the mechanism in various positions. After you move the
components to the desired location, you can save snapshots of your
assembly in different positions and orientations.
2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 65

Constraints Use the Constraints tab to apply or remove movement


constraints. After you apply a constraint, its name is added to the
constraints list. You can turn a constraint on and off by selecting or clearing
the check box next to the constraint. Use the shortcut menu to copy, cut,
paste, or delete the constraint.
Advanced Drag Options Use the Advanced Drag Options tab to access
a set of drag options that enable you to more precisely control your drag
operations. Specific translation and rotation directions can be defined for a
drag operation. These options are only available in Mechanism mode.

Creating Snapshots

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After you move connected components to a desired position, you can create
snapshots of that particular location in the graphics window. Snapshots
enable you to return the assembly components to a particular position. You
can create multiple snapshots and quickly move the assembly to specific
positions by activating each snapshot. Snapshots can also be used in
drawings.

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Use snapshots to save your mechanism in positions you will


frequently return to. For example, positions used in drawings, the
design position, and positions where there is a collision issue you
are working on.

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Use the following tools to create and manage snapshots:


Take Snapshot
Take a snapshot of the current mechanism position.
Edit that name and press ENTER to change the name.
Display Snapshot

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View the selected snapshot.

Borrow Part Positions


Add the position of selected components in
one snapshot to the selected snapshot.

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Update the selected snapshot with the current


Update Snapshot
component positions.

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Make the selected snapshot available


Make Available In Drawings
in Drawing mode as an exploded view.
Delete Snapshot

Delete the selected snapshot.

Adding Constraints
Use the Constraints tab to constrain the motion of your mechanism. After you
apply a temporary constraint, its name is added to the constraints list. You can
turn a constraint on and off by selecting or clearing the check box next to the
constraint. Use the shortcut menu to copy, cut, paste, or delete the constraint.
Distance
Use the Distance constraint to position the component
reference at a set distance from the assembly reference. References for
a Distance constraint can be point-point, point-line, line-line, plane-plane,
planar surface-planar surface, point-plane, or line-plane.
Angle Offset
Use the Angle Offset constraint to position the selected
component reference at an angle to the selected assembly reference.
Module 2 | Page 66

2012 PTC

References for an Angle constraint can be line-line (coplanar lines),


line-plane, or plane-plane.
Use the Parallel constraint to place the component reference
Parallel
parallel to the assembly reference. References for a Parallel constraint can
be line-line, line-plane, or plane-plane.
Use the Coincident constraint to place the component
Coincident
reference coincident to the assembly reference. References for a
Coincident constraint can be line-line, line-plane, or plane-plane.
Select bodies to be locked together.

Enable/Disable Connections
is disabled.

Select a connection. The connection

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Body-Body Lock

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Reconnect
Define the offset value for any mate or align constraints.
Define a value for angle or distance, if you have chosen an orientation
constraint.
.

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To delete a selected constraint from the list, click Delete Constraint

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 67

PROCEDURE - Using the Drag and Snapshot Tools


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Tools_Drag-Snapshot
Task 1:

DRAG.ASM

Create a snapshot of the current position.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.


from the Motion group.

4. Click Drag Components

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

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5. In the Drag dialog box, expand the Snapshots area, if necessary.


.

6. Click Take Snapshot

7. Edit the name Snapshot1 to Design_Position and press ENTER.

Task 2:

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No matter where you drag components, you can now easily return
to this assembly position by double-clicking Design_Position.
Move the mechanism using both Point Drag and Body Drag.

in the Drag

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1. Click Body Drag


dialog box.

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2. Select DRAG_CLIP.PRT and


drag the model. Notice how the
models react to the dragging of
this body.

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3. Click in the graphics window to


stop the movement.
4. In the Drag dialog box,
double-click Design_Position
so the models return to their
original positions.

Module 2 | Page 68

2012 PTC

5. Click Point Drag

in the Drag dialog box.

6. Select DRAG_CLIP.PRT and drag the model.


7. Click in the graphics window to stop the movement.
8. Select other components of the assembly and drag them. Notice
how the models react.
9. In the Drag dialog box, double-click Design_Position.
Task 3:

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Use constraints to control the movement of components while


dragging.

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and select
2. Click Mate
the bottom surface of
DRAG_BASE.PRT and the
top of DRAG_LIFT.PRT to create
a Plane-Plane Mate constraint.

1. Select the Constraints tab in the


Drag dialog box.

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3. Select DRAG_CLIP.PRT and


drag the model. Notice that
DRAG_BASE.PRT no longer
moves upward but it does spin.

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4. Click in the graphics window to


stop the movement.

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5. Select the Snapshots tab and


double-click Design_Position.

6. Select the Constraints tab in the Drag dialog box.


The Plane-Plane Mate constraint is no longer in the constraint
list. Constraints must be saved with a snapshot and that was
not done.

7. Click Body-Body Lock

and select DRAG_LIFT.PRT.

8. Press CTRL, select DRAG_BASE.PRT, and click OK.


9. Click Take Snapshot

10. Edit the name Snapshot1 to Up and press ENTER.

2012 PTC

Module 2 | Page 69

11. Click Motion Axis Constraint


and select the motion axis
shown.
12. Edit the Value field to 90 and
press ENTER.
13. Select the Snapshots tab.

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14. With Up selected, click Update


Snapshot
to add the change
to the Up snapshot.

Experiment with the various drag, snapshot, and constraint tools


found in the Drag dialog box.

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Task 4:

15. Double-click each snapshot to


alternate between each position.

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There is an unlimited number of drag, snapshot, and constraint


combinations that can be used to define mechanism positions.
You should spend five minutes experimenting with the various
options, using them to create your own snapshots. Use this time
to get a better understanding of all the functionality in the Drag
dialog box.

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1. When finished, click Close in the Drag dialog box.

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This completes the procedure.

Module 2 | Page 70

2012 PTC

3
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Module

Configuring Motion and Analysis

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Module Overview

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In this module, you learn basic concepts of servo motors and how they apply
motion to a mechanism. You learn how an analysis is used to run the motion
applied by motors in the mechanism. You learn how to create both geometry
and motion axis type servo motors. You learn how to configure servo motors
and use functions to assign various magnitudes of motion. Finally, you graph
the magnitude of each motor and run an analysis to verify the magnitude of
motion.

Objectives

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After completing this module, you will be able to:


Understand servo motors.
Understand analysis definitions.
Create geometry servo motors.
Create motion axis servo motors.
Create slot motors.
Graph the magnitude of servo motors.
Assign constant motion to a servo motor.
Assign ramp motion to a servo motor.
Assign cosine motion to a servo motor.
Assign SCCA motion to a servo motor.
Assign cycloidal motion to a servo motor.
Assign parabolic motion to a servo motor.
Assign polynomial motion to a servo motor.
Assign table-defined motion to a servo motor.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 1

Understanding Servo Motors


Use servo motors to impose motion on your mechanism.
Driven Entity Types:
Motion Axis
Geometry
Motion Types:

Motor Profile Specifications:

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Motion Axis Settings


Position
Velocity
Acceleration

Figure 1 Rotation and


Translation Motors

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Translational
Rotational
Slot

Figure 2 Motion Applied by


Servo Motors

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Understanding Servo Motors

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Servo motors are used to apply translational or rotational motion to bodies


of a mechanism. They are the driver that moves your mechanism about the
connections you have defined. The motion is defined in terms of position,
velocity, or acceleration.

Driven Entity Types


There are two driven entity types that define a servo motor:
Motion Axis The motion axis entity type references the motion axis of a
connection to define motor direction. You use this entity type to define the
relative motion between two bodies in the direction of a motion axis. The
direction can be translational or rotational. For example, in the rotational
direction of a Pin connection, if a slot connection is selected as the motion
axis, the motion is along the trajectory of the slot.
Geometry The geometry entity type references points, edges, and planes
to define motion direction. You use this type when the motion direction
cannot be defined by a motion axis. There are five different types of
geometry motors.
Module 3 | Page 2

2012 PTC

Creating Servo Motors


The Servo Motor tool is only available in Mechanism mode and started using
one of the following methods:
Select the Mechanism tab and click Servo Motors
from the Insert
group.
Right-click MOTORS from the Mechanism tree and select New.
If your license of Creo Parametric includes the MDO option, you
have to expand MOTORS and right-click SERVO to select New.

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In the Type tab of the Servo Motor Definition dialog box, select a Direction
Entity to define the motor as a Motion Axis or Geometry type motor:
Motion Axis This is the default direction entity type. It requires you to
select a motion axis to define the motor's direction of motion. The type
of motion axis selected determines if the motor's motion is translational
or rotational.
Flip Changes the direction of the servo motor's motion.
Geometry This direction entity type requires the following:
Geometry Reference Select a point or plane from the model that is
driven by the motor.
Reference Entity Select a point or plane that the driven model moves
with respect to. If a plane is selected, this also defines the direction of
motion.
Motion Direction If a point was selected as the Reference Entity, an
additional reference must be selected to define the direction of motion.
Flip Changes the direction of the servo motor's motion.
Motion Type The motion type defines the motion of the geometry
motor as being translational or rotational.

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You use the Profile tab of the Servo Motor Definition dialog box to define
specification for the motor.
Specifications Define the type of movement the servo motor produces:
to edit settings for the selected motion
Click Motion Axis Settings
axis. This includes Current Position, Regen value, Minimum Limit, and
Maximum Limit.
Position Specify the servo motor motion in terms of the position of a
selected reference entity.
Velocity Specify the servo motor motion in terms of its velocity.
Acceleration Specify the servo motor motion in terms of its
acceleration.
Initial Position Defines the starting position for your servo motor and
appears only if Velocity or Acceleration is selected. If you want to specify
another Initial Position, clear the Current check box and specify the
value at which the motion should start.
Initial Velocity Defines the velocity of the servo motor at the beginning
of the analysis and appears only if Acceleration is selected.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 3

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Magnitude Defines the magnitude of the motor as a function of time.


It can be a constant value, or it can be defined by one of the functions
you select. The function is used to generate the magnitude of the
motor based on the time period the analysis is run for. For example, a
translational Position motor using the Ramp function (q = A + B*t) moves
a body 40 units, if A = 0, B = 10, and the analysis is run for 4 seconds.
Graph Enables you to generate and display a graph plotting the
Position, Velocity, and Acceleration generated by your motor over
time. This is a very useful tool for determining how a defined velocity
or acceleration affects the position of a component in a mechanism,
prior to actually running an analysis.

Module 3 | Page 4

2012 PTC

Understanding Analysis Definitions


Use analyses to record and display the motion of your
mechanism over time.
Preferences:

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Analysis Type Position or


Kinematic
Graphical Display Settings
Locked Entities
Initial Configuration
Motors:

Figure 1 Analysis Displayed


at Start

Figure 2 Analysis Displayed at End

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Select Motors to Run


Start and End Times Per Motor

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Understanding Analysis Definitions

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After motors have been added to your mechanism model, you must define
an analysis to display the motors running through their defined motion. You
configure an analysis that records and displays the motion generated by
selected motors over a specified time period.

Creating Analysis Definitions


The Analysis tool is only available in Mechanism mode. You start the Analysis
tool by using one of the following methods:
Select the Mechanism tab and click Mechanism Analysis
from the
Analysis group.
Right-click ANALYSES from the mechanism tree and select New.

Analysis Type
Using the MDX option in Creo Parametric, you can select two types of
analyses:
Position You should only use a position type analysis when analyzing
position motors and all geometry motors. The Position analysis jumps
2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 5

between each frame so you cannot use it to track velocity or acceleration,


only position measures at each frame.
Kinematic A kinematic type analysis enables you to use position servo
motors as well as velocity, and acceleration servo motors. The kinematic
type analysis records a smoother motion that can better display changes in
velocity and acceleration.

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It is important to know that a Kinematic analysis cannot be used


to run a geometry servo motor.
In addition to Position and Kinematic, Dynamic, Static, and Force
Balance analyses are also visible in the drop-down list. These are
MDO type analyses and you cannot run them without an MDO
license.

Graphical Display

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You configure Graphical Display settings on the Preferences tab of the


Analysis Definition dialog box. This enables you to determine how Creo
Parametric records motion over time. There are three types of time domains:
Length and Rate Specify the end time, frame rate, and minimum interval.
Length and Frame Count Specify the end time and frame count values.
Rate and Frame Count Specify the frame count, frame rate, and minimum
interval.

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Locked Entities

Lock bodies together during the motion analysis

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Create Body Lock


run.

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You can lock bodies and connections during your analysis run. Locking bodies
or connections fixes the position of one body or connection relative to another
during the defined analysis. Use the icons in the analysis dialog box to:

Create Connection Lock


Lock the movement of a connection
during the motion analysis run.
Enable or disable a cam liftoff during the

Enable/Disable Connection
the motion analysis run.

Enable or disable a connection during

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Enable/Disable Cam Liftoff


motion analysis run.

Delete Locked Entity

Delete locked bodies and connections.

Initial Configuration
By selecting your initial configuration, you are setting a starting point for your
position or kinematic analysis. There are two options:
Current Screen
Snapshot
By default, each analysis starts with the mechanism displayed as the current
screen position, which is the current orientation of the bodies displayed on
the screen. However, you can set the initial configuration to establish the
Module 3 | Page 6

2012 PTC

snapshot as the initial position. The snapshot captures the configuration


of existing locked bodies and geometric constraints to define position
constraints.

Configuring Motors of the Analysis


On the Motors tab, you can select and configure motors to run in the analysis.
By default, each motor runs from start to the end of the analysis.

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Alternatively, you can select and edit the Start and End values in the From
and To cells to be numerical values. For example, in an analysis running
10 seconds, you can edit the first motor to run from 0 to 5, and the second
motor to run from 6 to 10.

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The run time defined in the analysis is relative. The motion is not
displayed in real time. The actual time it takes to run the motion is
dependent on the complexity of the models as well as computer
speed.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 7

Creating Geometry Servo Motors


Use geometry servo motors to define motion that cannot be
defined with an existing motion axis.
Geometry Servo Motors:
Plane-Plane Translation Motor
Plane-Plane Rotation Motor
Point-Plane Translation Motor
Plane-Point Translation Motor
Point-Point Translation Motor

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Motor Profiles

Figure 1 Plane-Plane
Translation Motor

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Using Geometry Servo Motors

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You use geometry servo motors to define motion on points or planes when
the motion cannot be defined with a motion axis motor. This occurs when
the connections defining your model do not contain axes that define motion
in the direction you want to control.

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Servo motors are displayed in the model as a swirling cone shape, as shown
in Figure 1.

Creating Geometry Servo Motors

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To create a geometry servo motor, on the Type tab of the Servo Motor
Definition dialog box, select Geometry as the driven entity type. Based on
the Geometry Reference, Reference Entity, and Motion Direction references
selected, you can create the following five types of geometry servo motors:
Plane-Plane Translation Motor A plane-plane translation motor moves a
plane in one body with respect to a plane on another body, keeping one
plane parallel to the other. The shortest distance between the two planes
measures the position value of the motor. The zero position occurs when
the driven and reference planes are coincident.
In addition to the defined motion, the driven plane is free to rotate or
translate in the reference plane, making it less restrictive than a motor
on a slider or a cylinder connection. To explicitly tie down the remaining
degrees of freedom, additional constraints such as a connection or another
servo motor can be applied.
In the example shown, the mechanism is connected using two
pin connections. You can control the motion with a rotational
motor referencing the motion axis of these motors. Instead, a
translational geometry motor was added to control the distance
of motion between the top of the clip and a horizontal plane
through the upper pin.
Module 3 | Page 8

2012 PTC

Plane-Plane Rotation Motor A plane-plane rotation motor moves a plane


in one body at an angle to a plane in another body. During a motion run,
the driven plane rotates about a reference direction, with the zero position
defined when the driven and reference planes are coincident.
Because the axis of rotation on the driven body remains unspecified, a
plane-plane rotation motor is less restrictive than a motor on a pin or
cylinder connection.
You can use plane-plane rotation motors to define rotations
around a ball connection. You can also define a rotation between
the last body of an open-loop mechanism and the ground.

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Point-Plane Translation Motor A point-plane translation motor moves


a point in one body along the normal of a plane in another body. The
shortest distance from the point to the plane measures the position value
of the motor.
You cannot define the orientation of one body with respect to the other
using only a point-plane motor. Also note that the driven point is free to
move parallel to the reference plane, and may thus move in a direction
unspecified by the motor. Lock these degrees of freedom using another
motor or connection. By defining X, Y, and Z components of motion on a
point with respect to a plane, you can make a point follow a 3-D curve.
Plane-Point Translation Motor A plane-point translation motor is the same
as a point-plane translation motor, except that you define the direction in
which a plane moves relative to a point. During a motion run, the driven
plane moves in the specified motion direction while staying perpendicular
to the point. The shortest distance from the point to the plane measures the
position value of the motor. At a zero position, the point lies on the plane.
You cannot define the orientation of one body with respect to the other
using only a plane-point motor. Also, note that the driven plane is free
to move perpendicularly to the specified direction. Lock these degrees
of freedom using another motor or connection. By defining X, Y, and Z
components of motion on a point with respect to a plane, you can make
a point follow a 3-D curve.
Point-Point Translation Motor A point-point translation motor moves a
point on one body in a direction specified by another body. The shortest
distance measures the position of the driven point to a plane that contains
the reference point and is perpendicular to the motion direction. The zero
position of a point-point motor occurs when both the reference and driven
point lie in a plane whose normal is the motion direction.

Geometry Motor Profiles


The Profile tab in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box is where the motor's
specifications are defined.
Specification The motor is controlled by Position, Velocity, or Acceleration.
Initial Position You can set the initial position of the motor (but not for
Position motors).
Magnitude You can define the magnitude of motion using one of nine
different types, including Constant and Ramp.
Graph You can graph the motor's Position, Velocity, and Acceleration.
2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 9

PROCEDURE - Creating Geometry Servo Motors


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Servo_Motors_Geometry
Task 1:

GEOM_MOTOR.ASM

Create a planar-planar translational motion geometry motor.

1. Enable only the following Datum Display types:

3. Click Mechanism

from the Insert group.

5. Click Geometry in the Servo


Motor Definition dialog box.
Select the top planar surface of
GEOM_MOTOR_CLIP.PRT.
Select datum plane CENTER
as the Reference Entity.
If necessary, click Flip so that
the direction arrow points up.
If necessary, click Translation
to set the motion type.

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4. In the ribbon, click Servo Motors

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

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You have just defined a Plane-Plane Translation servo motor. Had


you selected a point as reference, rather than a plane, an additional
Direction reference would have been required. In the case of a
Plane-Plane motor, the Reference Entity defines both the reference
and direction.

Module 3 | Page 10

2012 PTC

6. Select the Profile tab in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.
7. On the Profile tab, configure the magnitude of the motor's motion:
In the Specification drop-down list, ensure that Position is selected.
From the Magnitude drop-down list, select Ramp.
Edit the value of B from 0 to 6 and press ENTER.

8. Click OK to close the dialog box.


Task 2:

U
se

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Cursor over the Ramp. Notice that the pop-up message reads q
= A + B*t, where:
q = Magnitude of motion.
A = Constant Coefficient, specified as 0 in the dialog box.
B = Slope, displayed as 6 in the dialog box.
t = The time that the motor will be run.
This means that at 0 seconds, the translational motion of the
motor will be 0 mm (q = 0 + 0*0). If the motor is run for 10
seconds, the translational motion will be 60 mm (q = 0 + 6*10).

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Create an analysis to run the new motor for 10 seconds.

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1. In the mechanism tree, right-click


ANALYSES and select New.

In

2. Notice in the Analysis Definition


dialog box that the Start Time
of the analysis is 0 and the
End Time is 10 (a 10 second
analysis).

PT

3. Select the Motors tab. Observe


that the motor you created has
been placed in the list.

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4. Click Run to run the motor.


5. Click OK to close the dialog box.
The motor has moved the clip 60 mm, a translational distance from
datum plane CENTER. Notice that the 10 seconds defined in the
analysis is relative and not shown in real time.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 11

6. Click Regenerate
from the
Quick Access toolbar to return
the model to its initial position.

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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

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The model returned to its original position because each of the


model's connections as a motion axis were defined with a Regen
Value and the option Enable regeneration value was turned on.
The motion axis returns to those values each time the model is
regenerated.

Module 3 | Page 12

2012 PTC

Creating Motion Axis Servo Motors


Use motion axis servo motors to define motion in the direction
of a connection's motion axis.
Motion Axis Servo Motors
About a Rotational Axis
Along a Translational Axis
Along a Slot Connection

Specification
Initial Position
Magnitude
Graph

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Motor Profiles

Figure 1 Translational and


Rotational

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Using Motion Axis Servo Motors

In

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You use motion axis servo motors to define a motor with motion in the
remaining degree of freedom contained in a connection. For example,
selecting the motion axis of a Pin connection creates a rotational servo motor.
Selecting the motion axis of a Slider connection creates a translational servo
motor. Selecting a Slot connection creates a servo motor that drives motion
along the direction of the slot.

PT

Servo motors are displayed in the model as swirling cone shapes, as shown
in Figure 1.

Creating Motion Axis Servo Motors

Fo
r

To create a motion axis servo motor, on the Type tab of the Servo Motor
Definition dialog box, select Motion Axis as the driven entity type.
You can click the Flip button to change the direction of the motor.

Motion Axis Motor Profiles


The Profile tab in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box is where the motor's
specifications are defined:
Specification The motor is controlled by Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration.
Initial Position You can set the initial position of the motor (but not for
Position motors).
Magnitude You can define the magnitude of motion using one of nine
different types such as Constant and Ramp.
Graph You can graph the motor's position, velocity, and acceleration.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 13

PROCEDURE - Creating Motion Axis Servo Motors


Close Window

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Mechanism\Servo_Motors_Motion-Axis
Task 1:

AXIS_MOTOR.ASM

Create a translational motion axis motor.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

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2. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.

from the

from the Insert group.


5. Select the motion axis of the
Slider connection, as shown.

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4. In the ribbon, click Servo Motors

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6. Select the Profile tab in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

In

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7. On the Profile tab, configure the magnitude of the motor's motion:


From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity.
Clear the Current check box.
In the Magnitude drop-down list, ensure that Constant is selected.
Edit the value of A from 0 to 1.5 and press ENTER.
Click OK to close the dialog box.

Fo
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PT

You have configured the motor as follows:


Velocity Magnitude of motion will be defined as mm/second.
Initial Position You have defined the initial position of the
motor to be at 0 mm.
A Velocity will be a constant 1.5 mm/second.
This means at 0 seconds, the translational position of the motor
will be at 0 mm. If the motor is run for 10 seconds, the motor will
move 15 mm in the direction of the axis.

Module 3 | Page 14

2012 PTC

Task 2:

Create a rotational motion axis motor.

1. Click Servo Motors


the Insert group.

from

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2. Select the motion axis of the Pin


connection, as shown.

3. Select the Profile tab in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

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4. On the Profile tab, configure the magnitude of the motor's motion:


From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity.
Ensure that the units displayed to the right of Velocity are deg/sec.
This verifies that a rotational axis was selected.
Clear the Current check box.
In the Magnitude drop-down list, ensure that Constant is selected.
Edit the value of A from 0 to 9 and press ENTER.
Click OK to close the dialog box.

Fo
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PT

In

You have configured the motor as follows:


Velocity Magnitude of motion will be defined as
degrees/second.
Initial Angle You have defined the initial position of the
motor to be at 0 degrees.
A Velocity will be a constant 9 degrees/second.
This means at 0 seconds, the translational position of the motor
will be at 0 degrees. If the motor is run for 10 seconds, the motor
will move 90 degrees about the axis.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 15

Task 3:

Create an analysis to run each motor for 10 seconds.

1. In the mechanism tree, right-click


ANALYSES and select New.
2. From the Type drop-down list,
select Kinematic.
3. Edit the End Time value from 10
to 20 and press ENTER.

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4. Select the Motors tab. Notice


that both motors have been
added to the list.

6. Edit the Start value of


ServoMotor2 to 5.
7. Click Run to run the analysis.

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8. Click OK to close the dialog box.

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5. Edit the End value of


ServoMotor1 to 10.

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The 20 seconds defined in the analysis is relative and not shown


in real time.

In

9. Click Regenerate
from the Quick Access toolbar to return the
model to its initial position.

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PT

This completes the procedure.

Module 3 | Page 16

2012 PTC

Creating Slot Motors


A slot motor can be used to provide greater control of motion of
a slot connection.
A slot motor:

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Acts along the tangent of a slot


connection.

Figure 1 Slot Motor

Creating Slot Motors

U
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A slot motor can be used to provide greater control of motion of a slot


connection. It enables you to place a motor that acts upon the tangent of a
slot connection. You can use any of the available motor profiles, and the slot
motor can be used in both kinematic and dynamic analyses.

Fo
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PT

In

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In Figure 1, a slot motor is used to push a model around a defined curve


path.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 17

PROCEDURE - Creating Slot Motors


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Mechanism\Motors_Slot
Task 1:

SIMPLE_SLOT_FOLLOWER.ASM

Create a slot motor.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

from the Insert group. The


4. In the ribbon, click Servo Motors
Servo Motor Definition dialog box appears.

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6. Click Select Point or Motion


Axis
and select the slot as
shown.

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5. Select the Type tab if necessary. On the Type tab, select Motion
Axis.

7. Select the Profile tab in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

PT

In

8. On the Profile tab, configure the magnitude of the motor's motion:


From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity.
Clear the Current check box.
In the Magnitude drop-down list, ensure that Constant is selected.
Edit the value of A from 0 to 10.0 and press ENTER.
Click OK to close the dialog box.

Fo
r

You have configured the motor as follows:


Velocity Magnitude of motion will be defined as mm/second.
Initial Position You have defined the initial position of the
motor to be at 0 mm.
A Velocity will be a constant 10.0 mm/second.
This means that at 0 seconds, the translational position of the
motor will be at 0 mm. If the motor is run for 10 seconds, the
motor will move 100 mm along the slot.

Module 3 | Page 18

2012 PTC

Task 2:

Create an analysis to run the motor for 60 seconds.

1. In the mechanism tree, right-click


ANALYSES and select New.
The Analysis Definition dialog
box appears.
2. From the Type drop-down list,
select Kinematic.

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3. Edit the End Time value from 10


to 70 and press ENTER.

4. Select the Motors tab. Notice


that the motor has been added
to the list.

6. Click Run to run the motor.


7. Click OK to close the dialog box.

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5. Edit the End value of


ServoMotor1 to 60.

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The 70 seconds defined in the analysis is relative and not shown


in real time.
8. Click Regenerate
the model.

from the Quick Access toolbar to regenerate

Fo
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PT

In

This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 19

Graphing the Magnitude of Servo Motors


Evaluate the magnitude of a motor by graphing its position,
velocity, and acceleration.
Graph Magnitude of Motion:
Position
Velocity
Acceleration

Export
Print
Zoom and Refit
Format

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Graph Tools:

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Figure 1 Graph of Position,


Velocity, and Acceleration

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Graphing the Magnitude of Servo Motors

In

Graphing position, velocity, and acceleration of a motor enables you to


evaluate the motor prior to running an analysis. This enables you to be sure
the specifications you have assigned to the motor produce the desired results.

Creating a Servo Motor Graph

PT

To create a graph of a servo motor, select the Profile tab in the Servo
Motor Definition dialog box of a selected motor. In the Graph area at the
bottom of the dialog box, select any combination of Position, Velocity, and

Fo
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Acceleration, then click Graph Motor


. This generates a graph of the
selected magnitudes with respect to time. By default, the time period graphed
is 10 seconds.
The graph opens in a special Graphtool window.

The Graphtool Window

The Graphtool window provides a set of tools that help you view, share, and
configure the graph's display.
Print graph

Prints the graph.

Toggle Grid Lines

Toggles on/off the grid display in the graph.

Repaint

Redraws the current view of the graph.

Zoom In

Zooms in on an area of the graph.

Refit

Refits the graph into the window.

Module 3 | Page 20

2012 PTC

Fo
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PT

In

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Format Graph
Opens the Graph Window Options dialog box to
format the graph.
File In the File menu, you can export the graph as an Excel file or text file.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 21

Assigning Constant Motion


Assign constant motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of
position, velocity, or acceleration.
Constant Motion:

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Function: q = A
q = Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration
A = Constant Coefficient
Graph Position, Velocity, and
Acceleration

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Figure 1 Graph of Constant


Acceleration, with Resulting
Position and Velocity

In

Assigning Constant Motion

You use a constant function to assign motion to a servo motor. You can
specify the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

PT

Graphing the Magnitude of Motion

Fo
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The Graph Motor


tool at the bottom of the Servo Motor Definition dialog
box, enables you to graph the position, velocity, and acceleration of your
constant motion motor.
Graphing position, velocity, and acceleration of any motor enables
you to evaluate the motor prior to running an analysis. The graph
helps you determine if the specifications you have assigned to the
motor produce the desired results.

Module 3 | Page 22

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Assigning Constant Motion


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Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Motion_Constant
Task 1:

CONSTANT.ASM

Assign and graph a translational position, constant motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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6. Right-click ServoMotor1 (POS


- CONSTANT) and select Edit
Definition.

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3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

PT

In

This motor provides upward


translational motion of the
base, along the motion axis
shown.

Fo
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8. Configure the motor as a constant motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position and Magnitude is set
to Constant motion. Both are default settings for servo motors.
Edit the constant A from 0 to 15 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Velocity and
Acceleration.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 23

The graph indicates the following:


The position of the motor starts and ends at 15 mm, the
constant value specified.
A constant magnitude produces zero velocity and acceleration.
By default, the graph uses a range of 10 seconds for time.
9. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Assign and graph a translational velocity, constant motion.

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Task 2:

U
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1. Configure the motor as a constant motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of velocity:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity. Notice that
units are now shown as mm/sec.
Edit the constant A from 15 to 1.5 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Acceleration.

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al

to create a graph of the motor's position,


Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

In

The graph indicates the following:


The velocity of the motor is a constant 1.5 mm/sec.
The position magnitude increases from 0 to 15 mm, over 10
seconds.
A constant magnitude of velocity produces zero acceleration.

Assign and graph a translational acceleration, constant motion.

Fo
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Task 3:

PT

2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.

1. Configure the motor as a constant motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of acceleration:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Acceleration. Notice
that units are now shown as mm/sec.
Edit the constant A from 1.5 to .5 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Velocity.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

Module 3 | Page 24

2012 PTC

The graph displays the following:


The acceleration of the motor is a constant .5 mm/sec.
The position magnitude accelerates from 0 to 25 mm, over 10
seconds.
The velocity magnitude increases from 0 to 5 mm/sec, over 10
seconds.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.

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3. Click OK to close the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

4. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click


AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.

Fo
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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 25

Assigning Ramp Motion


Assign ramp motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of Position,
Velocity, or Acceleration.
Ramp Motion:

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Function: q = A + B*t
q = Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration
A = Constant Coefficient
B = Slope
t = time
Graph Position, Velocity, and
Acceleration

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Figure 1 Graph of Ramp


Acceleration, with Resulting
Position and Velocity

In

Assigning Ramp Motion

Fo
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PT

You use a ramp function to assign motion to a servo motor. You can specify
the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

Module 3 | Page 26

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Assigning Ramp Motion


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Motion_Ramp
Task 1:

RAMP.ASM

Assign and graph a rotational position, ramp motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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6. Right-click ServoMotor2 (POS


- RAMP) and select Edit
Definition.

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3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

PT

In

This motor provides


rotational motion of the
arm, about the axis shown.

Fo
r

8. Configure the motor as a ramp motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position, the default setting
for servo motors.
Select Ramp (q = A + B*t) from the Magnitude drop-down list.
If necessary, edit constant coefficient A to be 0 and press ENTER.
Edit the slope B to 9 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Velocity and
Acceleration.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 27

The graph indicates the following:


The position of the motor ramps from 0 to 90 deg, over 10
seconds.
Velocity is at a constant 9 deg/sec.
There is zero acceleration.
By default, the graph uses a range of 10 seconds for time.
9. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Assign and graph a rotational velocity, ramp motion.

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Task 2:

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1. Configure the motor as a ramp motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of velocity:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity. Notice that
units are now shown as deg/sec.
Edit the slope B to 1.8 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Acceleration.

te
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to create a graph of the motor's position,


Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

PT

In

The graph indicates the following:


The velocity of the motor ramps from 0 to 18 deg/sec.
The position magnitude increases from 0 to 90 deg, over 10
seconds.
Acceleration is a constant 1.8 deg/sec.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Assign and graph a rotational acceleration, ramp motion.

Fo
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Task 3:

1. Configure the motor as a ramp motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of acceleration:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Acceleration. Notice
that units are now shown as deg/sec.
Edit the slope B to .54 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Velocity.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

Module 3 | Page 28

2012 PTC

The graph indicates the following:


The acceleration of the motor ramps up from 0 to 5.4 deg/sec.
The position magnitude accelerates from 0 to 90 deg, over 10
seconds.
The velocity magnitude accelerates from 0 to 27 deg/sec,
over 10 seconds.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.

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3. Click OK to close the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

4. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click


AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.

Fo
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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 29

Assigning Cosine Motion


Assign cosine motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of
position, velocity, or acceleration.
Cosine Motion:

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q = A*cos (360*t/T + B) + C
q = Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration
A = Amplitude
B = Phase
C = Offset
T = Period
Graph Position, Velocity, and
Acceleration

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Function:

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Figure 1 Graph of Cosine


Acceleration, with Resulting
Position and Velocity

In

Assigning Cosine Motion

Fo
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PT

You use a cosine function to assign motion to a servo motor. You can specify
the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

Module 3 | Page 30

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Assigning Cosine Motion


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Motion_Cosine
Task 1:

COSINE.ASM

Assign and graph a translational position, cosine motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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6. Right-click ServoMotor1 (POS


- COSINE) and select Edit
Definition.

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3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

PT

In

This motor provides upward


translational motion of the
base, along the motion axis
shown.

Fo
r

8. Configure the motor as a cosine motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position, the default setting
for servo motors.
Select Cosine (q = A*cos (360 *t/T + B) + C) from the Magnitude
drop-down list.
Edit the amplitude A to 10 and press ENTER.
Edit the phase B to 0 and press ENTER, if necessary.
Edit the offset C to 10 and press ENTER.
Edit the period T to 10 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Velocity and
Acceleration.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 31

The graph indicates that the position of the motor starts at 20


mm, then transitions as a cosine down to 0 and back to 20 mm.
9. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Task 2:

Assign and graph a translational velocity, cosine motion.

U
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nl
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1. Configure the motor as a cosine motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of velocity:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity. Notice that
units are now shown as mm/sec.
Edit the amplitude A to 4 and press ENTER.
Edit the phase B to 2 and press ENTER.
Edit the offset C to 0 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Acceleration.

al

to create a graph of the motor's position,


Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

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The graph indicates that the velocity of the motor starts at 4


mm/sec, transitions as a cosine down to -4 mm/sec and then
back to 4 mm/sec, in the shape of a cosine.

Assign and graph a translational acceleration, cosine motion.

PT

Task 3:

In

2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.

Fo
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1. Configure the motor as a cosine motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of acceleration:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Acceleration. Notice
that units are now shown as mm/sec.
Edit the amplitude A to 5 and press ENTER.
Edit the phase B to 0 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Velocity.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

Module 3 | Page 32

2012 PTC

The graph indicates that the acceleration of the motor starts at 5


mm/sec, transitions as a cosine down to -5 mm/sec and then
back to 5 mm/sec, in the shape of a cosine.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
3. Click OK to close the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

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4. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click


AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.

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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 33

Assigning SCCA Motion


Assign SCCA motion to simulate a cam profile output.
SCCA Motion:

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Sine Constant Cosine


Acceleration
q = Acceleration
A = Increasing Acceleration
B = Constant Acceleration
H = Amplitude
T = Period
Graph Acceleration

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Function:

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Figure 1 Graph of SCCA


Acceleration

Assigning SCCA Motion

Fo
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PT

In

You use a SCCA function to simulate a cam profile output. You can specify
the motion only as a magnitude of acceleration.

Module 3 | Page 34

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Assigning SCCA Motion


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Motion_SCCA
Task 1:

SCCA.ASM

Assign and graph a translational acceleration, SCCA motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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6. Right-click ServoMotor2 (POS


- SCCA) and select Edit
Definition.

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3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

PT

In

This motor provides


rotational motion of the
arm, about the axis shown.

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8. Configure the motor as a SCCA motion motor, with the motion defined
as a magnitude of acceleration:
Select SCCA from the Magnitude drop-down list.
Notice that the Specification is automatically set to Acceleration
and cannot be changed.
Edit the amplitude A to be .25 and press ENTER, if necessary.
Edit the phase B to be .5 and press ENTER, if necessary.
Edit the offset H to be 5 and press ENTER.
Edit the period T to be 1 and press ENTER, if necessary.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 35

9. In the Graph area of the Profile


tab, select the check boxes for
Position and Velocity.
10. Click Graph Motor
to create
a graph of the motor's position,
velocity, and acceleration over
time.

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The graph indicates the


acceleration as a CAM
profile.

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PT

In

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This completes the procedure.

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12. Click OK to close the Servo


Motor Definition dialog box.

11. In the Graphtool dialog box, click


File > Exit.

Module 3 | Page 36

2012 PTC

Assigning Cycloidal Motion


Assign cycloidal motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of
position, velocity, or acceleration.
Cycloidal Motion:

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q = L*t/T L*sin (360*t/T)/2*Pi


q = Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration
L = Total Rise
T = Period
Graph Position, Velocity, and
Acceleration
Enables you to simulate a cam
profile output

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Function:

Figure 1 Graph of Cycloidal


Acceleration

Assigning Cycloidal Motion

Fo
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PT

In

You use a cycloidal function to assign motion to a servo motor. You can
specify the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 37

PROCEDURE - Assigning Cycloidal Motion


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Mechanism\Motion_Cycloidal
Task 1:

CYCLOIDAL.ASM

Assign and graph a translational position, cycloidal motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

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6. Right-click ServoMotor1 (POS


- CYCLOIDAL) and select Edit
Definition.

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5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

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This motor provides upward


translational motion of the
base, along the motion axis
shown.

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8. Configure the motor as a cycloidal motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position, the default setting
for servo motors.
Select Cycloidal (q = L*t/T L*sin (360*t/T)/2*Pi) from the
Magnitude drop-down list.
Edit the total rise L to 5 and press ENTER.
Edit the period T to 2.5 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Velocity and
Acceleration.
to create a graph of the motor's cyclical
Click Graph Motor
position, velocity, and acceleration over time.

Module 3 | Page 38

2012 PTC

The graph indicates that the magnitude of the position increases


cyclically from 0 to 20 mm. The velocity and acceleration move
cyclically but begin and end at zero.
9. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Task 2:

Assign and graph a translational velocity, cycloidal motion.

Click Graph Motor


velocity over time.

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1. Configure the motor as a cycloidal motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of velocity:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity. Notice that
units are now shown as mm/sec.
Edit the total rise L to .4 and press ENTER.
Edit the period T to 2 and press ENTER.
to create a graph of the motor's cyclical

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The graph indicates that the velocity of the motor starts at 0 and
increases cyclically until it reaches 2 mm/sec.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Assign and graph a translational acceleration, cycloidal motion.

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Task 3:

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1. Configure the motor as a cycloidal motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of acceleration:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Acceleration. Notice
that units are now shown as mm/sec.
Edit the total rise L to .5 and press ENTER.
Edit the period T to 6 and press ENTER.
to create a graph of the motor's cyclical
Click Graph Motor
acceleration over time.
The graph indicates that the acceleration of the motor increases
cyclically from 0 to approximately .9 mm/sec.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
3. Click OK to close the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.
4. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click
AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.
This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 39

Assigning Parabolic Motion


Assign parabolic motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of
position, velocity, or acceleration.
Parabolic Motion:

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Function: q = A*t +1/2 B*t


q = Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration
A = Linear Coefficient
B = Quadratic Coefficient
t = time
Graph Position, Velocity, and
Acceleration

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Figure 1 Graph of Parabolic


Acceleration, with Resulting
Position and Velocity

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Assigning Parabolic Motion

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You use a parabolic function to assign motion to a servo motor. You can
specify the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

Module 3 | Page 40

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Assigning Parabolic Motion


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Mechanism\Motion_Parabolic
Task 1:

PARABOLIC.ASM

Assign and graph a rotational position, parabolic motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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6. Right-click ServoMotor2 (POS


- PARABOLIC) and select Edit
Definition.

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3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

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This motor provides


rotational motion of the
arm, about the axis shown.

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8. Configure the motor as a parabolic motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position, the default setting
for servo motors.
Select Parabolic (q = A*t +1/2 B*t) from the Magnitude drop-down
list.
Edit the linear coefficient A to 1 and press ENTER.
Edit the quadratic coefficient B to 2 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Velocity and
Acceleration.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 41

The graph indicates the following:


The position increases parabolically from 0 to 110 deg.
Velocity increase uniformly to 21 deg/sec.
There is constant acceleration of 2 deg/sec.
9. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
Assign and graph a rotational velocity, parabolic motion.

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Task 2:

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1. Configure the motor as a parabolic motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of velocity:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Velocity. Notice that
units are now shown as deg/sec.
Edit the quadratic coefficient B to .2 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Acceleration.

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to create a graph of the motor's position,


Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

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The graph indicates the following:


The velocity of the motor ramps from 0 to 20 deg/sec.
The position increases from 0 to approximately 85 deg.
Acceleration increases uniformly from 0 to 3 deg/sec.

Task 3:

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2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.


Assign and graph a rotational acceleration, parabolic motion.

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1. Configure the motor as a parabolic motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of acceleration:
From the Specification drop-down list, select Acceleration. Notice
that units are now shown as deg/sec.
Edit the linear coefficient A to .1 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Position and
Velocity.
to create a graph of the motor's position,
Click Graph Motor
velocity, and acceleration over time.

Module 3 | Page 42

2012 PTC

The graph indicates the following:


The acceleration increases parabolically 0 to 11 deg/sec.
The position magnitude moves from 0 to 100 deg.
The velocity magnitude accelerates from 0 to 38 deg/sec.
2. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.
3. Click OK to close the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

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4. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click


AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.

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This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 43

Assigning Polynomial Motion


Assign polynomial motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of
position, velocity, or acceleration.

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Function: q = A + B*t + C*t + D*t


q = Position, Velocity, or
Acceleration
A = Constant Coefficient
B = Linear Coefficient
C = Quadratic Coefficient
D = Cubic Coefficient
t = time
Graph Position, Velocity, and
Acceleration

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Polynomial Motion:

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Figure 1 Graph of Polynomial


Acceleration, with Resulting
Position and Velocity

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Assigning Polynomial Motion

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You use a polynomial function to assign motion to a servo motor. You can
specify the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

Module 3 | Page 44

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Assigning Polynomial Motion


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Mechanism\Motion_Polynomial
Task 1:

POLYNOMIAL.ASM

Assign and graph a translational position, polynomial motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

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6. Right-click ServoMotor1 (POS POLYNOMIAL) and select Edit


Definition.

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3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

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This motor provides upward


translational motion of the
base, along the motion axis
shown.

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8. Configure the motor as a polynomial motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position, the default setting
for servo motors.
Select Polynomial (q = A + B*t + C*t + D*t) from the Magnitude
drop-down list.
Edit the constant coefficient A to 2 and press ENTER.
Edit the linear coefficient B to 1 and press ENTER.
Edit the quadratic coefficient C to .01 and press ENTER.
Edit the cubic coefficient D to .005 and press ENTER.
In the Graph area, select the check boxes for Velocity and
Acceleration.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 45

9. Click Graph Motor


to create
a graph of the motor's position,
velocity, and acceleration over
time.

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The graph indicates the


following:
The position increases
from 2 to 18 mm.
Velocity increases from 1
to 2.7 mm/sec.
Acceleration increases
from .02 to .32 mm/sec.

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10. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.

11. Click OK to close the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

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Like most motion types, polynomial motion can also be defined


as a magnitude of velocity and acceleration.

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12. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click


AnalysisDefinition1 (KINEMATICS) and select Run.

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This completes the procedure.

Module 3 | Page 46

2012 PTC

Assigning Table Motion


Assign table motion to a servo motor as a magnitude of position,
velocity, or acceleration.
Table Motion:

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Create custom motor profiles.


Read data from text file.

Figure 1 Graph of Table


Acceleration, with Resulting
Position and Velocity

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Assigning Table Motion

You use a table function to assign custom motion profiles to a servo motor.
You can create motion profiles that cannot be defined by a function. You can
also specify the motion as a magnitude of position, velocity, or acceleration.

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The table motion is defined by a two column table, the first column being time
and the second being magnitude. You can read the table from a text file or
create it in the Servo Motor Definition dialog box.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 47

PROCEDURE - Assigning Table Motion


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Mechanism\Motion_Table
Task 1:

TABLE.ASM

Assign and graph a translational position, table-defined motion.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

4. Click Named Views


FRONT view.

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

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from the In Graphics toolbar and select the

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6. Right-click ServoMotor1 (POS


- TABLE) and select Edit
Definition.

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5. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).

7. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

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In

This motor provides upward


translational motion of the
base, along the motion axis
shown.

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8. Configure the motor as a table-defined motion motor, with the motion


defined as a magnitude of position:
Notice that the Specification is set to Position, the default setting
for servo motors.
Select Table from the Magnitude drop-down list.
Click Open File
Click Graph Motor
driven by the table.

and double-click TRANS_TABLE.TAB.


to create a graph of the motor's position as

9. In the Graphtool dialog box, click File > Exit.


10. Click OK to close the dialog box.

Module 3 | Page 48

2012 PTC

Task 2:

Assign and graph a rotational position, table motion.

1. In the Mechanism tree, expand


MOTORS (and SERVO, if
necessary).
2. Right-click ServoMotor2 (POS
- TABLE) and select Edit
Definition.

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3. Select the Profile tab in the


Servo Motor Definition dialog
box.

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4. Configure the motor as a


table-defined motion motor,
with the motion defined as a
magnitude of position:
Select Table from the
Magnitude drop-down list.
Click Open File

This motor provides


rotational motion of the
arm, about the axis shown.

In

and double-click
ROT_TABLE.TAB.

to
Click Graph Motor
create a graph of the motor's
position as driven by the table.

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5. In the Graphtool dialog box, click


File > Exit.

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6. Click OK to close the dialog box.


7. In the Mechanism tree,
expand ANALYSES, then
right-click AnalysisDefinition1
(KINEMATICS) and select Run.

This completes the procedure.

2012 PTC

Module 3 | Page 49

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Module 3 | Page 50

2012 PTC

4
O

Evaluating Analysis Results

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Module

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Module Overview

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In this module, you learn how to evaluate analysis results. You generate
analysis results and then create measures based on those results. You learn
how to evaluate playback results and use the animate dialog box. You also
learn how to check for collisions between moving components. Finally, you
learn how to create motion envelopes.

Objectives

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In

After completing this module, you will be able to:


Generate measure results for analyses.
Create analysis measure definitions.
Evaluate playback results.
Use the Animate dialog box.
Check for collisions.
Create motion envelopes.

2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 1

Generating Measure Results for Analysis


You graph analysis measurements to help you understand and
evaluate your mechanism.
Measure Results Dialog Box:

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Graph Type
Measures
Result Set
Graph Measure
Load Result Set
Export Results

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Figure 1 Graphed Maximum


Magnitude

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Generating Measure Results for Analysis

You graph and export the results of analysis measures to verify and evaluate
the movement of your mechanism.

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The Measure Results Dialog Box

from the

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You open the Measure Results dialog box by clicking Measures


Analysis group.

Measures and Results

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The Measure Results dialog box provides three functions: to create


measures, to graph the results of selected measures, and to export the result
of a measure to models as a parameter.
Graph Type Displays the results of a measure graphed as Measure
vs. Time or Measure vs. Measure.
Measure for X axis For a Measure vs. Measure type graph, you can
select the measure to place on the X-axis.
Measures In the Measures area of the dialog box, you can select, create,
edit, copy, and delete measures. You can also toggle Graph measures
separately to either graph measures as multiple plots in one graph or as
separate graphs.
You can display up to nine separate graphs.
Result Set In the Result Set area of the dialog box, you can select one or
more result sets from previously run analyses. The graph displays a plot
of a different colored curve for each result set.
Module 4 | Page 2

2012 PTC

Along the top of the dialog box, there are three operations that can be
performed on selected measures:
Graphs the selected measure based on the selected
Graph Measure
result set. After the measure results are complete, the Graphtool window
opens. Use the items in this window to change the display of your graph,
print it, or save it in tabular form.

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Load Result Set


Enables you to use results from a saved analysis
run. Select a saved results file and it appears in the Result Set area of
the dialog box.

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Export Results
Click here to create a Creo Parametric parameter
from the selected measure and analysis. The parameter has the name
MDO_<measure_name>. When you first create a parameter from a
measure, it is given the value of the measure at the last time step of the
analysis. The value of the Creo Parametric parameter remains constant
until you update it in the Measure Results dialog box or until you return to
Creo Parametric and change the value. If you create a parameter, and
then rerun an analysis, select the measure and analysis and click Export

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to update the value of the parameter with the value from the
Results
new analysis.

2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 3

Creating Analysis Measure Definitions


Create analysis measures to evaluate and verify your
mechanism.
Measure Definition Dialog
Box:

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Type
References
Evaluation Method

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Figure 1 Measure Definition

Creating Analysis Measure Definitions

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Analysis measures are measurements that are evaluated when a mechanism


analysis is run. You can create measures for specific model entities or for the
entire mechanism. You can also include measures in your own expressions
for user-defined measures.

Creating Measures

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You can create measures by clicking New Measure


in the Measure
Results dialog box. The Measure Results dialog box is opened by clicking
Measures

from the Analysis group.

Measure Types

In the Type area of the Measure Definition dialog box, you can create the
following types of measures:
Position Measures the location of a point, vertex, or motion axis during
the analysis.
Velocity Measures the velocity of a point, vertex, or motion axis during
the analysis.
Acceleration Measures the acceleration of a point, vertex, or motion axis
during the analysis.
Connection Reaction Measures the reaction forces and moments at
connections.

Module 4 | Page 4

2012 PTC

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Net Load Measures the magnitude of a force load on a spring, damper,


servo motor, force, torque, or motion axis. You can also confirm the force
load on a force motor.
Loadcell Reaction Measures the load on a loadcell lock during a force
balance analysis.
Impact Determines whether impact occurred during an analysis at a
connection limit, slot end, or between two cams.
Impulse Measures the change in momentum resulting from an impact
event. You can measure impulses for connections with limits, for
Cam-Follower connections with liftoff, or for Slot-Follower connections.
System Measures several quantities that describe the behavior of the
entire system.
Body Measures several quantities that describe the behavior of a
selected body.
Separation Measures the separation distance, separation speed, and
change in separation speed between two selected points.
Cam Measures the curvature, pressure angle, and slip velocity for either
of the cams in a Cam-Follower connection.
User Defined Defines a measure as a mathematical expression that
includes measures, constants, arithmetical operators, Creo Parametric
parameters, and algebraic functions.
Belt Measures the belt tension and slip for a Belt connection.
3D Contact Measures the contact area, pressure angle, and slip velocity
for a 3D contact connection.

In

With the MDX option you can only create the Position, Velocity,
Acceleration, Separation, Cam, Belt, 3D Contact measures, and
System and Body measures that do not require mass calculations.
With the MDO option, you can create all of the measure types.

PT

References and Other Options

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The references required and options required to create measurements varies


depending on the type of measure being created. For the typical position,
velocity, or acceleration measure, a point or motion axis reference is required.
You can define the component of the measure as an overall magnitude or
you can specify it to be the X, Y, or Z component of the magnitude.

Evaluation Methods
When you define analysis measures, you can select from several evaluation
methods. The graph of the measure and the quantity displayed under Value in
the Measure Results dialog box are different for different evaluation methods.
For Each Time Step, you can define your measure after you run the analysis.
For the other methods, you must define the measure before running an
analysis. If you define a measure with Maximum, Minimum, Integral, Average,
Root Mean Square, or At Time evaluation methods after you run an analysis,
the Status column in the Measure Results dialog box reports Not computed
when you select the analysis.
2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 5

PROCEDURE - Creating Analysis Measure Definitions


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Mechanism\Measure_Definitions
Task 1:

MEASURE.ASM

Create a translational motion axis motor.

1. Enable only the following Datum


.

Display types:

3. Click Mechanism
Motion group.

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2. In the ribbon, select the


Applications tab.

4. In the ribbon, click Measures


from the Analysis group.

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6. In the graphics area, click the


datum point MEASURE.

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5. The Measure Results dialog box


.
appears, click New Measure

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from the

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7. In the Component drop-down list, select Z-component. Notice the


direction arrow pointing in the Z direction.

8. In the Component drop-down list, select Y-component. This arrow


cannot be seen because the model is covering it.

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9. Click OK to close the dialog box.

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In the Results Set area of the Measure Results dialog box, there
are no results available in which to apply measure1.

Module 4 | Page 6

2012 PTC

10. Click Close to close the Measure Results dialog box.


Notice in the next two steps that the vertical translation
present in the first analysis run produces a greater vertical
reach than is seen in the second analysis run.
11. In the Mechanism tree, expand ANALYSES, then right-click
WITH_TRANSLATION (KINEMATICS) and select Run.
12. In the Mechanism tree, right-click NO_TRANSLATION (KINEMATICS)
and select Run.

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13. In the Mechanism tree, expand PLAYBACKS. Notice that the two
analysis runs are now in session.

from the Analysis group. Notice that the two


14. Click Measures
analysis runs are now also listed in the Measure Results dialog box.

16. Click WITH_TRANSLATION.

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15. The Measure Results dialog box appears, click measure1 and then
click NO_TRANSLATION.

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The Value listed for measure1 in the dialog box for both analyses
is 52.1564. This is the value at the start point of the analysis
runs, where both have the same value.

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17. Press CTRL and select the


NO_TRANSLATION result set so
that both result sets are selected.

18. With both result sets and


measure1 selected, click Graph

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in the Measure
Measure
Results dialog box.

From the graph, you can verify that the measure results from the
WITH_TRANSLATION analysis produce a larger Y-component
result than the NO_TRANSLATION analysis.

2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 7

Task 2:

Create a parameter for the maximum measure value.

1. Click File > Exit in the Graphtool window.


.

2. Select measure1, if necessary, and then click Edit Measure

3. In the Evaluation Method drop-down list, select Maximum and click


OK.
4. Select the WITH_TRANSLATION result set.

5. Click Close to close the Measure Results dialog box.

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The value listed for the measure now reads Not Computed.
This is because the Maximum evaluation method requires the
analysis to be rerun.

7. Click Yes in the Confirmation window.


8. Click Measures

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6. In the ANALYSES node of the Mechanism tree, right-click


WITH_TRANSLATION (KINEMATICS) and select Run.

from the Analysis group.

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9. The Measure Results dialog box appears click measure1 and click
WITH_TRANSLATION.
The value listed for measure1, the maximum measure of the
Y-component during the analysis run, is 107.524.

In

10. Click Export Results


in the Measure Results dialog box to export
the measure as a parameter.

11. In the ribbon, select the Tools tab.

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12. Click Parameters


from the Model Intent group. Notice that the
parameter has been added to the model.

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This completes the procedure.

Module 4 | Page 8

2012 PTC

Evaluating Playback Results


Use the Animation Playback tool to play and evaluate an analysis
result set.
Playbacks:
Play
Restore
Save
Remove
Export
Motion Envelope

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Collision Detection Settings


Movie Schedule
Display Arrows

Configure Playbacks:

Figure 1 Playbacks Dialog Box

Evaluating Playback Results

In

You use the Playbacks dialog box to view an analysis result set. You can
also change the display of your result set, check for interference, specify the
amount of time the result set plays, and save it in several different formats.

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Opening the Playbacks Dialog Box

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You open the Playbacks dialog box using one of the following methods:
In the ribbon, click Playback from the Analysis group.
from the mechanism toolbar.
Click Playback
Right-click PLAYBACKS from the mechanism tree and select Play.

Using Playbacks Dialog Box Tools

The following tools are available in the Playbacks dialog box:


Play Result Set
Plays back an analysis and opens the Animate
dialog box. Use the options to control playback speed and direction.
Restores a result set. A dialog box opens with a
Restore Result Set
list of previously saved result set files. Browse and select a saved result
set from disk.
Save Result Set
Saves a results file to disk. A playback file has a
.pbk extension. You can retrieve this file in the current or a later session
to play back the results or calculate measures. The saved file includes all
Display Arrows and Movie Schedule settings.
2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 9

Remove Result Set

Removes the current results from the session.

Export Results
Exports a result set as a frame file with a .fra
extension. You can use the .fra file to create a motion envelope after you
exit Mechanism Design. Use the Motion Envlp option from Creo Parametric
by clicking File > Save As > Save a Copy and selecting Motion Envlp as
the file type.

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Opens the Create Motion Envelope dialog


Create Motion Envelope
box. This option is available when you have a result set in the current
session, or when you have restored a .pbk file. Use it to shrinkwrap the
swept volume created by your mechanism during an analysis. Mechanism
Design creates a faceted motion envelope model that represents the full
motion of the model, as the motion is captured in the frame file during
the analysis.

Configuring Playbacks

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You use the following to configure your playbacks:


Result Set Displays analysis results and saved playback files from the
current session.
Collision Detection Settings Specifies whether your result set playback
includes collision detection, how much is included, and how the playback
should display it.
Movie Schedule Records start and end times for your playback. To
access these, clear the Default Schedule check box.
Display Arrows If you are using an MDO license, you can use this tab
to select measures and input loads that are graphically displayed with
three-dimensional arrows during playback.

Module 4 | Page 10

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Evaluating Playback Results


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Mechanism\Playback_Results
Task 1:

PLAYBACK.ASM

Run and save analysis results.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

5. In the mechanism tree,


expand ANALYSES, then
right-click WITH_TRANSLATION
(KINEMATICS) and select Run.

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6. Right-click NO_TRANSLATION
(KINEMATICS) and select Run.

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4. In the mechanism tree, notice that the PLAYBACKS node contains


no saved or in session analyses.

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7. Expand the PLAYBACKS node


and notice that both analyses
that were run are now shown in
the node.

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Both animations are in


session. They have not
been saved to disk.

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8. In the PLAYBACKS node, right-click WITH_TRANSLATION and


select Save.
9. Click Save in the Save Analysis Results dialog box to save the results.

10. In the ribbon, click Playback


from the Analysis group.
The Playbacks dialog box appears. Select NO_TRANSLATION
from the Result Set drop-down list.
and then click Save in the Save Analysis
Click Save Result Set
Results dialog box to save the results.
You can use either of these methods to save the results of your
analysis to disk as a .pbk file. The next time you open this model,
you can restore the results rather than run the analysis again.

2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 11

Task 2:

Play the analysis results.

1. In the Playbacks dialog box,


select WITH_TRANSLATION
from the Result Set drop-down
list.
2. Click Play Result Set
to
open the Animate dialog box.
3. The Animate dialog box appears.

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Click Play
and then slide the
Speed bar to the right to increase
the speed of the playback.

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4. Click Close to close the dialog


box.

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5. In the Playbacks dialog box, clear the Default Schedule check box.

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6. Edit the End value from 0 to 3 and press ENTER.


7. Click Add Movie Segment

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8. Click Play Result Set


to
open the Animate dialog box.

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9. Click Play
and then slide
the Speed bar to the right to
increase speed of the playback.

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The animation is now


looping through only the first
3 seconds of the animation.

10. Click Close to close the dialog


box.

This completes the procedure.

Module 4 | Page 12

2012 PTC

Understanding the Animate Dialog Box


You can use the Animate dialog box to animate analysis results.
Animate Controls and Options:

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Frames
Play and Frame Controls
Continuous Playback
Reverse Playback
Speed Control
Capture

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Figure 1 Animate Dialog Box

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Understanding the Animate Dialog Box

Animate Controls

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You use the Animate dialog box to control speed and direction when you
play back an animation result set.

Starts the playback.

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Play

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The Animate dialog box uses controls similar to a typical music or DVD
player to control animation of the results you are playing. The buttons used
are as follows:

Play Backwards

Stops the playback.

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Stop

Plays the animation backwards.

Next Frame

Displays the next frame.

Previous Frame
Reset To Beginning
animation.
Advance To End
Repeat Animation
loops.

Displays the previous frame.


Resets playback to the beginning of the
Advances playback to the end of the animation.
Sets continuous playback. The animation

Reverse At Ends
Reverses playback direction at each end of
the animation.
Frame slide bar Slide the bar to advance the playback one frame at a
time. The current frame number is displayed below the bar.
Speed slide bar Slide the bar to adjust the animation speed, left for
slower and right for faster.
2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 13

Capture Opens the Capture dialog box.

The Capture Dialog Box


Click Capture in the Animate dialog box to access the Capture dialog box.
You use this dialog box to record your animation as an MPEG or AVI file or
as a series of JPEG, TIFF, or BMP files. The Capture dialog box contains
the following options:
Type Specify if you want to save the animation as a single MPEG file
(which is the default), or as a JPEG, TIFF, BMP, or AVI.

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If you select a format other than MPEG or AVI, the animation


is saved as a series of files named <filename_x>, where x is a
consecutive number starting with 1. Click Time Domain from
the Timeline group to change a frame number. Use external
animation software to create an animation from the individual
frames.

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Image Size The default width and height values are the dimensions of
the current graphics window (excluding the timeline and the navigation
pane). These values do not change if you resize the graphics window
while the Capture dialog box is open.
Lock Aspect Ratio Select this check box to ensure that the width-to-height
ratio remains the same when you resize the graphics window.
Quality Select the Photorender Frames check box to create a
photorealistic rendering of the animation.
Frame Rate Set the frame rate at which to record an MPEG or AVI file.
Compression Click Select to open the Video Compression dialog box and
select a video setting from the list. Then configure the compression as
required or accept the default Uncompressed.

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Compression settings are only available for AVI files and cannot
be undone once the animation has been captured.

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OK Click to begin recording.

Module 4 | Page 14

2012 PTC

Checking for Collisions


Drag components or animate analysis results to identify
collisions in a mechanism.
General Collision Detection
Settings:
No Collision Detection
Global Collision Detection
Partial Collision Detection
Include Quilts

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Figure 1 Arm Collides with Body

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Sound Warning on Collision


Stop Animation Playback on
Collision

Collision Identification Settings:

Figure 2 Body Collides with Lift

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Checking for Collisions

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If you enable collision detection in Creo Parametric, collisions between


moving components are detected during dragging operations or during
animation of the assembly's analysis results. You can stop movement when a
collision is detected, or continue moving the component and get a continuous
collision view.

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Collision Detection Settings


You can access the Collision Detection Settings dialog box by clicking File
> Prepare > Model Properties and then clicking change in the Collision
Detection row of the Model Properties window or by clicking Collision
Detection Settings in the Playbacks dialog box. With these settings, you can
specify whether your result set playback includes collision detection, how
much it includes, and how the playback should display it.
By default, Creo Parametric does not check for collisions between moving
components. You must enable and configure collision detection using the
following general collision detection settings:
No Collision Detection This is the default setting. When set, no collision
detection is performed and you are able to drag components smoothly,
even if there is a collision.
Global Collision Detection Creo Parametric checks for collisions in the
entire assembly and the collision is identified in accordance with the
optional selected settings.
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Module 4 | Page 15

Partial Collision Detection Enables you to specify which components


should be checked for collision. This is especially useful in large
assemblies where performance can be an issue.
Include Quilts Enables you to select whether surface quilts are included
in the collision detection process.
Use the following settings to determine how Creo Parametric notifies you
that a collision has been detected:

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Sound Warning on Collision With this option enabled, a warning bell


sounds upon collision.
Stop Animation Playback on Collision With this option enabled, the
playback stops upon collision.

Module 4 | Page 16

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Checking for Collisions


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Collisions_Check
Task 1:

COLLISION.ASM

Check for collisions by dragging components.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.


from the Component

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2. In the ribbon, click Drag Components


group.

3. Select and drag the arm of the assembly so components collide with
one another.
4. Middle-click to stop the drag.

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5. Set the Collision Detection Settings.


Click File > Prepare > Model Properties.
The Model Properties window appears. Click change in the
Collision Detection row.
The Collision Detection Settings dialog box appears. Click Global
Collision Detection and then select the Sound Warning on
Collision check box.
Click OK in the Collision Detection Settings dialog box.
Click Close in the Model Properties window.

6. Click Drag Components


from the Component group.

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7. Select and drag the arm of the


assembly so components collide
with one another.

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You are now warned of


collisions while dragging by
both the collision detection
sound and the highlighted
interference volume shown
in the graphics window.

8. If necessary, click Regenerate Model


from the Quick Access
toolbar to return the components to their original regenerated position.

2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 17

Task 2:

Check for collisions by animating analysis results.

1. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.


2. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group.

3. In the ribbon, click Playback

from the Analysis group.

4. The Playbacks dialog box appears. Click Restore Result Set


double-click the WITH_TRANSLATION.PBK file.

and

6. Click Play Result Set


in the
Playbacks dialog box to open the
Animate dialog box.
Click Play
animation.

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to start the

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7. The Animate dialog box appears.

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5. Click Collision Detection Settings.


The Collision Detection Settings dialog box appears. Select the
Stop Animation Playback on Collision check box.
Click OK in the Collision Detection Settings dialog box.

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The animation stops at the


first frame where a collision
is detected.

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8. Click Play
approximately 12
times, so the animation steps
through each frame where
collision is detected.

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Each time you click, the


animation continues until
the next collision is detected.

9. Middle-click and drag to spin the


model during the animation.
10. Click Close to close the Animate
dialog box.
11. Click Close in the Playbacks dialog box.
from the Quick Access
12. If necessary, click Regenerate Model
toolbar to return the components to their original regenerated position.
This completes the procedure.
Module 4 | Page 18

2012 PTC

Creating Motion Envelopes


Motion envelopes are a faceted model created from the full
motion of a mechanism.
Create Motion Envelope:
Quality
Selected Components
Special Handlings
Output Format

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Motion Envelope from Frame File:

Export Frame (.fra) File


Save a Copy

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Figure 1 Mechanism

Figure 2 Motion Envelope


of Mechanism

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Creating Motion Envelopes


A motion envelope is a faceted model that is created from the full motion of
your mechanism during an analysis. You use the motion envelope to evaluate
overall size, packaging restrictions, enclosure requirements, and so on.

Creating a Motion Envelope


You create motion envelops by clicking Create Motion Envelope
Playbacks dialog box or by reading an exported frame (.fra) file.

in the

Selecting the Create Motion Envelope


opens the Create Motion
Envelope dialog box. Select from the following settings to create a motion
envelope using this method:
To use this method, you must have an analysis result set open in
the current session or you must have restored a saved .pbk file.
2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 19

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Quality Level In the Quality area, specify the quality level for creating the
motion envelope model. Type an integer from 1-10. The default quality
level of 1 is the lowest quality model. Models at this level are created from
a low number of facets, and thus have a lower quality representation of the
motion. Using a higher quality level, such as 10, increases the number of
facets and yields a higher-quality representation. Note that higher quality
levels require more computer resources to create.
Select Components Select or de-select sub-assemblies, parts, or bodies
in your assembly to include in your motion envelope.
Special Handling Depending on your requirements, select or clear the
Ignore Skeletons and Ignore Quilts check boxes.
Invert Triangle Pairs After you create and preview a motion envelope,
click Invert Triangle Pairs to access these options and adjust the motion
envelope.
Output Format In the Output Format area of the dialog box, specify one
of the following output file formats:
Part Creates a Creo Parametric part with faceted solid geometry.
LW Part Creates a lightweight Creo Parametric part with a lightweight
facet feature.
STL Creates a .stl file.
VRML Creates a .vrl file.
Output File Name In the Output File Name area, you can accept the
default file name or specify another name. For Part and LW Part envelopes,
you can also create the model using the default template model.
Preview Creates a shaded representation of the triangles for the motion
envelope. A message window reports the number of triangles produced.
Create Completes the envelope and saves the model to disk.

Motion Envelope from Frame File

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You also create a motion envelope by reading in an exported frame file. The
benefit of this method is that you can use it outside of Mechanism mode. You
can send a frame file to a user or supplier who does not have access to
Mechanism mode and they can still create the motion envelope model.
Use the following steps to create a motion envelope using this method:
Restore or select an analysis results file (.pbk) in the Playbacks dialog box

to export the frame (.fra) file.


and click Export Results
Exit Mechanism mode by selecting Mechanism from the Applications tab.
Click File > Save As > Save a Copy and from the Type drop-down list,
select Motion Envlp. Then select the frame file to use for creating the
motion envelope.
Complete the model using options in the Create Motion Envelope dialog
box.

Module 4 | Page 20

2012 PTC

PROCEDURE - Creating Motion Envelopes


Close Window

Erase Not Displayed

Mechanism\Motion_Envelopes
Task 1:

ENVELOPE.ASM

Create an envelope from the Playbacks dialog box.

1. Disable all Datum Display types.

from the Motion group.

4. In the ribbon, click Playback

from the Analysis group.

3. Click Mechanism

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2. In the ribbon, select the Applications tab.

6. Click Export Results

and

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5. The Playbacks dialog box appears. Click Restore Result Set


double-click the WITH_TRANSLATION.PBK file.
to export a frame (.fra) file.

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You will use this frame file to create a motion envelope in a later
task.

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7. Click Create Motion Envelope


to open the Create Motion
Envelope dialog box.
The Create Motion Envelope dialog box appears. Edit the Quality
Level to 7 and press ENTER.

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You must click OK in the Motion Envlp Alert dialog box


when you set the quality level higher than 2.

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Click Select Components , press CTRL, and in the model tree,


de-select ENVELOPE_PIN1.PRT and ENVELOPE_PIN2.PRT.
Click Create in the Create Motion Envelope dialog box.
Click Close in the Create Motion Envelope dialog box.

8. Click Open
from the Quick
Access toolbar.
9. Double-click ENVELOPE_
ENV0001.PRT to open the newly
created motion envelope.

2012 PTC

Module 4 | Page 21

You are no longer in Mechanism mode. This envelope is a


standard Creo Parametric part. In the model tree, you can
observe that it is created from faceted surfaces and a Solidify
feature.
Task 2:

Create an envelope by reading in a frame file.

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1. Click Windows
and select ENVELOPE.ASM from the Quick
Access toolbar to return to the mechanism assembly.
2. Select the Applications tab.
3. Click Mechanism

from the Motion group to exit Mechanism mode.

4. Click File > Save As > Save a Copy.

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5. The Save a Copy dialog box appears. Select Motion Envlp from the
Type drop-down list and click OK.

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6. Click Open to open the frame file WITH_TRANSLATION.fra.


Edit the Quality Level to 6 in the Create Motion Envelope dialog box.
Click LW Part as the Output Format.
Click Create in the Create Motion Envelope dialog box.
Click Close in the Create Motion Envelope dialog box.

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The frame file WITH_TRANSLATION.fra was previously


exported.

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7. Click Open
from the Quick
Access toolbar.

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8. Double-click ENVELOPE_
ENV0002.PRT to open the newly
created motion envelope.

In the model tree, observe that this LW Part type is created


using a Facet feature. It is not a solid feature like the
ENVELOPE_ENV0001.PRT.
This completes the procedure.

Module 4 | Page 22

2012 PTC

Copyright
Mechanism Design using Creo Parametric 2.0
Copyright 2012 Parametric Technology Corporation and/or Its Subsidiary Companies.
All Rights Reserved.

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User and training guides and related documentation from Parametric Technology Corporation and its subsidiary companies (collectively
"PTC") are subject to the copyright laws of the United States and other countries and are provided under a license agreement that restricts
copying, disclosure, and use of such documentation. PTC hereby grants to the licensed software user the right to make copies in printed form
of this documentation if provided on software media, but only for internal/personal use and in accordance with the license agreement under
which the applicable software is licensed. Any copy made shall include the PTC copyright notice and any other proprietary notice provided by
PTC. Training materials may not be copied without the express written consent of PTC. This documentation may not be disclosed, transferred,
modified, or reduced to any form, including electronic media, or transmitted or made publicly available by any means without the prior written
consent of PTC and no authorization is granted to make copies for such purposes.
Information described herein is furnished for general information only, is subject to change without notice, and should not be construed as a
warranty or commitment by PTC. PTC assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this document.

The software described in this document is provided under written license agreement, contains valuable trade secrets and proprietary
information, and is protected by the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. It may not be copied or distributed in any form
or medium, disclosed to third parties, or used in any manner not provided for in the software licenses agreement except with written prior
approval from PTC.

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UNAUTHORIZED USE OF SOFTWARE OR ITS DOCUMENTATION CAN RESULT IN CIVIL DAMAGES AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.
PTC regards software piracy as the crime it is, and we view offenders accordingly. We do not tolerate the piracy of PTC software products,
and we pursue (both civilly and criminally) those who do so using all legal means available, including public and private surveillance resources.
As part of these efforts, PTC uses data monitoring and scouring technologies to obtain and transmit data on users of illegal copies of our
software. This data collection is not performed on users of legally licensed software from PTC and its authorized distributors. If you are using
an illegal copy of our software and do not consent to the collection and transmission of such data (including to the United States), cease
using the illegal version, and contact PTC to obtain a legally licensed copy.

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Important Copyright, Trademark, Patent, and Licensing Information: See the About Box, or copyright notice, of your PTC software.
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT RESTRICTED RIGHTS LEGEND

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This document and the software described herein are Commercial Computer Documentation and Software, pursuant to FAR 12.212(a)-(b)
(OCT95) or DFARS 227.7202-1(a) and 227.7202-3(a) (JUN95), and are provided to the US Government under a limited commercial license
only. For procurements predating the above clauses, use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to the restrictions set forth
in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software Clause at DFARS 252.227-7013 (OCT88) or Commercial
Computer Software-Restricted Rights at FAR 52.227-19(c)(1)-(2) (JUN87), as applicable. 01012012

PT

T3923-390-02

Date

PRINTING HISTORY
Document No.

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Parametric Technology Corporation, 140 Kendrick Street, Needham, MA 02494 USA

08/09/2012

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Order Number DT-T3923-390-02


Printed in the U.S.A

Description
Initial Printing of:
Mechanism Design using Creo Parametric 2.0

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