Lesson12 Sketching PDF

Lesson
12 Sketching
Purpose 13
This lesson introduces the method of creating a sketch and free hand
sketching of curves.
Objectives
Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Create a sketch.
• Create sketch curves.
• Apply dimensional constraints to sketches.
• Apply geometric constraints to sketche s.
• Identify constraints.
• Convert a sketch curve to reference.
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Sketching
Sketching Overview
What is a sketch?
A sketch is a collection of two-dimensional geometry within a part. Each

sketch is a named collection of 2D curves and points residing on a plane that
you specify. You can use sketches to address a wide variety of design needs.
For example, you might create.
13 • Detailed part features by sweeping, extruding, or revolving a sketch into a

solid or a sheet bod y.
• Large-scale 2D concept layouts.
• Construction geometry, such as a path of motion, or a clearance arc, that

is not meant to define a part feature.
This lesson will focus on the use of sketches to define detailed part
features.
Sketcher tools let you fully capture your design intent through geometric and
dimensional relationships that we refer to collectively as constraints. Use
constraints to create parameter-driven designs that you can update easily and
predictably. Sketcher evaluates constraints as you work to ensure that they
are complete and do not conflict.
Sketcher offers you the flexibility to create as many, or as few, constraints as
your design requires. Geometric relations may be established between the
curves within a profile as well as with curves in other profiles and model
geometry such as edges or datums.
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Sketching
Why sketch?
Sketches provide a high level of control over features and automate the
propagation of change s. You can quickly apply constraints to capture a
well-known design intent.
Once a sketch is placed on a face or datum plane, it will automatically move
when the position of the placement face/datum is changed. Since sketches do
not require constraints, this approach is the quickest way to build features
and still have a sufficient level of associativity.
The inherent ability to solve a sketch in real time means that, as rules are 13
applied, the sketch objects change and move to reflect the effect that the
assigned rule has on the geometry. This gives you the ability to quickly
change profiles of features created using sketches.
Using Sketches for Detail Part Features

When there is a commonly used shape that varies in size, a sketch can easily
accommodate the iterations of the design by editing a single constraint.

Sketching
Sketches should be used as base features of a model if the shape lends itself
to extruded or revolved geometry.
13
Sketches may be used in a number of different ways. Consider them for guide
paths for swept features, or as section curves for free form features.

Sketching
An important aspect of modeling that will help you decide how to use a
sketch is defining the design intent of the model. The design intent consists
of two items:
• Design Considerations — The geometric requirements on the actual
part, including engineering and des ign rules that determine the detail
configuration of the part.
• Potential Areas for Change — Known design changes or iterations, and
their effects on the part configuration.

As a general rule, the more design considerations and potential areas for 13
change, the more likely there are benefits from sketching.

Sketching
Sketches and the Part Navigator
Sketches can be created by choosing the Sketch Section icon in certain feature
creation dialogs such as Extrude and Revolve, choosing the Sketch icon
directly in the Form Feature toolbar, or by choosin g Insert? Sketch.
If you create a sketch from within a feature creation dialog, the sketch of the
section remains internal to the feature. It does not display in the graphics
window or in the Part Navigato r. You can edit the sketch by accessing
the assoc iated feature. If the same sketch is required to create additional
13 features, you can choose the Make Sketch External option from the MB3
popup menu in the Part Navigator and it will appear in the graphics window.
If a sketch is not created from within a feature creation dialog, it will appear
as a separate feature in the Part Navigato r.

Sketching
Sketch Visibility
Organizing the data in a part is an important aspect of modeling. The

sketcher helps in this endeavor by automating the visibility of sketches are
activated and deactivated.
• If a standalone sketch is created by choosing the Sketch icon in the Form
Feature toolbar (or Insert→Sketch), the current work layer is assigned to
the sketch as it is created. When you subsequently activate the sketch, the
work layer is set to the layer assigned to the sketch so that you do not
accidently construct objects in the active sketch across multiple layers. 13
• If the sketch is created internal to a feature, it automatically becomes
visible when you edit the feature and choose the Sketch Section icon in
the feature dialog.

Sketching
Creating a New Sketch
Defining a Sketch Plane
When creating a sketch, you first need to define the plane on which to place
the sketch curves. But, you must consider the state of the model. Since
the goal is to develop a parametric model, all of the features need to be
associative. Is the sketch going to define the base feature? Is the sketch going
13 to be attached to an existing reference feature or face of an existing body?
An icon option bar shown below appears in the upper left corner of the
graphics window and contains options to define the sketch plane.
1 – Sketch in Place 4 – YC– ZC Pla ne 7 – Datum CSYS

2 – Sketch Plane 5 – XC–ZC Plane 8 – OK
3 – XC–YC Plane 6 – Datum Plane 9 – Cancel
Defining the Sketch as the Base Feature
If the sketch is going to define the base feature and there is no existing
geometry or reference features in the part, you may define the plane by
choosing one of the following options:
• XC-YC Plane
• YC-ZC Plane
• ZC-XC Plane
• Datum CSYS
Initially, the XC-YC plane will be highlighted in the graphics window. You
can accept this plane or choose one of the other options.
To accept the plane, choose OK (MB2).
After the plane is accepted, the view in the graphics window is

automatically oriented so that it is parallel to the sketch plane. If you
do not want the view to be oriented in this manner, you can turn off
the Change View Orientation setting in Preferences→Sketch.

Sketching
Associate Sketch to Existing Face or Reference Feature

You can also define the sketch plane on an existing planar face, Datum
Plane, or Datum C S YS. A relati ve Datum Plane or Datum CSYS may also
be created on the fly.
To create the sketch on an existing face, Datum Plane, or Datum CS YS plane.
• Select the face, Datum Plane, or Datum CS Y S plane.
• Define the horizontal or vertical reference.

13
• Choose OK.
To create a rela tive Datum Plane on the fly:
• Choose Datum Plane from the icon option bar in the upper left
corner of the graphics window.
• Select the required objects to define the Datum Plane.
• Choose OK in the Datum Plane dialog.
• Define the horizontal or vertical referenc e.
• Choose OK.
A similar procedure can be used to create a rela tive Datum CSYS

on the fly.
If there is an existing Datum CSYS in the part and it is coincident with the
WCS. The X-Y plane of the Datum CSYS will initially highlight as the default
sketch plane. If you choose the XC-YC, YC-ZC, or ZC-XC option, you will be
asked whether to use the corresponding Datum CSYS plane instead.

Sketching
Defining the Reference Direction

The reference direction is used to specify the horizontal direction on the
sketch plane. When there is no linear object pointing in the desired horizontal
direction, a vertical reference may be defined. Because vertical is 90 degrees
(counterclockwise) from horizontal by definition, the horizontal direction
is interpreted from it.
In the example below, the shaded face (1) is specified as the placement
face. An edge (2) is defined as the vertical reference. The resultant sketch
13 orientation is shown to the right.
The direction of an axis may be changed as follows:

• To flip the direction of a sketch axis, double -click on it.
• To specify a new direction, select the axis to redirect and then select a
straight edge. The straight edge is projected to the sketch plane to define
the new direction.
If a datum plane is selected to define the sketch plane, a Z axis will

also be displayed. The normal of the sketch plane may be changed by
double-clicking on the Z sketch axis.
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Sketching
Naming a Sketch
Since a unique name is required for each sketch, a default name will
initially be assigned with a numeric suffix. The format of the default name is
"SKETCH_###" where ### is replaced by the next sequential three digit
number beginning with 000 (SKETCH_000, SKETCH_001, etc.). A sketch
name may be defined during or after the sketch has been created by clicking
on the default sketch name, typing in the new name and pressing Enter.
13
The sketch can also be renamed by choosing Sketch→Sketch Properties.

Sketches should be given descriptive names rather than accepting the
default. This allows downstream users to understand the function
of the sketch at a glance.
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Sketching
Th e Activ e Sketch
In any given part there may be numerous sketches of different features at

different orientations. When using the sketcher, only one sketch may be
worked on at a ti me. This sketch is called the active sketch. Curves
created while a sketch is active become associated with the active sketch.
When returning to a sketch to add to or modify a profile, the sketch must be
activated. There are a few ways to activate a sketch:
• Double-clicking on a sketch curve.
13
• In the Part Navigator double -click on the sketch feature node.
• Choose the Sketch icon and select the desired sketch from the Sketch
Name pull-down.
There are also a few ways to deactivate an active sketch:
• Choose the Finish Sketch icon.
• Choose Sketch? Finish Sketch.
• Activate a different sketch.
• Choose Sketch? New and create a new sketch.

Sketching
Sketch Creation Steps
Sketch for a B ase Feature
• Set the work layer for the sketch.
• Choose the Sketch icon.
• Define the sketch plane on a WCS plane (XC-YC, YC-ZC, or ZC-XC) or 13

create a Datum CSYS at absolute coordinates.
• Name the sketch.
• Choose OK.
Sketch on an Existing Face or Reference Feature
• Set the work layer for the sketch.
• Choose the Sketch icon.
• Select the face, Datum Plane, or Datum CSYS plane. (You could also
create a relative Datum Plane or Datum CSYS on the fly.)
• Define the horizontal or vertical reference
• Name the sketch.
• Choose OK.
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Sketching
Activity — Sketch Creation

In this activity, you will create a sketch on an existing face and another
sketch on a datum plane that is created on the fly.
Step 1: Open the seedpart_in part.
Step 2: Start the Modeling application.
Step 3: Create a sketch for a base feature.

13 Make layer 21 the work layer.
Choose the Sketch icon. (Insert→Sketch)
Choose the YC-ZC Plane.
Click on the sketch name, key in base and press Enter.
Choose OK. (MB2)
The sketch is created. In addition, a fixed datum plane is created

on the specified sketch plane and two fixed datum axes are created
along its major axes.
The specified sketch plane defines a Feature Coordinate System
(FCS) for the sketch such that the X axis is parallel to the
horizontal direction and the Y axis is vertical. The W C S is
automatically manipulated to the FCS orientation to facilitate
the creation of sketch geometry.
Step 4: Exit the Sketcher.
Choose the Finish Sketch icon. (Sketch→Finish Sketch)
Step 5: Close the part and do not save.
Step 6: Open the sketch_creation_1 part.
Step 8: Create a sketch on an existing face.
Make layer 21 the work layer.

Sketching
The Sketch Plane icon is already selected.
Select the face (1) shown below.

The 2D sketch plane indicator appears and the X-Axis is active
(highlighted). 13
Select the horizontal reference (2) at the location shown below.
Click on the sketch name, key in skt1 and press Enter.
Choose OK. (MB2)
Step 9: Create a curve on the sketch plane.
Choose the Circle icon. (Insert→Circle)

Sketching
Create a circle by selecting at location (1) and then location (2).
13
Choose the Finish Sketch icon. (Task→Finish Sketch)
Step 10: Change the orientation of the face that defines the sketch plane.
Choose Tools? Expression.
Select the expression Change_Me and change the formula to

3.5.
Choose OK.
Rotate the part and notice how the circle remains associative
to the face.
Step 11: Create a sketch on a datum plane.
Orient the view to Trimetric. (Home key)
Make layer 22 the work layer, layer 21 invisible, and layer 1

selectabl e.
Choose Datum Plane.

Sketching
Select the two shaded faces shown below.
13
Choose OK in the Datum Plane dialog.

A center datum plane is created.
The 2D sketch plane indicator appears and the X-Axis is active

(highlighted).

Sketching
Select the edge for the horizontal reference at the location

indicated below.
13
Click on the sketch name, key in skt2 and press Enter.
Choose OK. (MB2)
YC
ZC XC
Choose the Finish Sketch icon.
Step 12: Activate an existing sketch by selecting geometry.

Make layer 21 selecta ble.

Sketching
Double -click on the sketch curve (1) shown below.
13
Fit the view. (MB3→Fit)

Sketch SKT1 is activated and oriented in the graphics window.
Step 13: Activate an existing sketch by name.
Choose the Sketch icon.
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Sketching
Choose SKT2 from the sketch name option menu.
13 Sketch SKT2 is activated and oriented in the graphics window.
YC
ZC XC
Step 14: Close the part.

Sketching
Sketch Curves
Sketch curves are created via the Sketch Curve toolbar. As curves are
created geometric constraints are assigned to the curves relative to the Infer
Constraints Settings.
1 – Profile
2 – Line
3 – Arc
4 – Circle
13
Infer Constraint Settings
The Infer Constraints Settings dialog determines which constraints are

automatically created during curve creation. It is accessed by choosing
the Infer Constraint Settings icon from the Constraints toolbar or
Tools→Constraints→Infer Constraint Settings.
As you create the curves a symbol will appear near the curve being created to
represent the constraint that will be applied, if any.

Sketching
Locking a Constraint
When a constraint symbol appears during curve creation you may lock in that
constraint by pressing MB2. For example, if you are creating a line and the
parallel symbol appears, press MB2. As you move the cursor, the new line
that is rubber banding is doing so parallel to the reference curve.
Snap Angle
The snap angle is a preference setting in the Sketch Preferences dialog that is
13 applied when curves are being created. It is used to "snap" a line to horizontal
or vertical. The default snap angle is set to 3° and is user definable between
0° and 20°. This angular tolerance is defined on either side of horizontal or
vertical from the first speci fied location, effectively creating a 6° tolerance
zone by default.
When creating lines outside of the sketche r, snap angle only applies
when using inferred cursor location.
Snap Point Toolbar The Snap Point toolbar can be displayed when creating
most of the curve types in the sketcher so that you have more control over the
selection of locations.
When the Snap Point toolbar is active, regardless of the point types turned
on, cursor location is always available.

Sketching
Alignment Lines While Creating Curves

In the process of creating a curve, if you are horizontally or vertically opposite
a control point, the system will display an alignment line. The example below
depicts an existing curve (1) with a new curve (2) being created as well as the
alignment curves (3).
13
Profile Tool
The Profile tool allows creation of a string of lines and arcs without having to
specify a start for each curve after the first curve is created. The Profile tool is
turned on by default when you first create a sketch and can be accessed by
choosing the Profile icon on the Sketch Curve toolbar.
The icon options in the upper left corner of the graphics window allow you to
switch between creating lines (1) or arcs (2) and allow you to switch between
Coordinate Mode (3) or Parameter Mode (4). Line creation and Coordinate
Mode are the defaults.
Once you have created the first curve (line or arc), the default will revert back
to Line. You can switch to arc creation by using press-drag-release with MB1.

Sketching
The "circle-X" symbol (1) controls the direction in which the arc will be
created.
If the desired arc is in the wrong direction, release MB1, pass the cursor over
the end of the line, and exit in a different quadrant of the symbol.
13 Arc originating from

top quadrant
Arc originating from

left quadrant

right quadrant

bottom quadrant
As you create curves with the profile tool, the string mode can be broken
by clicking MB2.
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Sketching
Creating Lines
Line creation is accessed by choosing the Line icon on the Sketch Curve
toolbar.
Once in line creation, the icons in the upper left corner of the graphics window
provide two options: Coordinate Mode (by cursor location or keying in an XC
and YC coordinates) and Parameter Mode.
13
There are several ways to create a line:
• Locate the start, and then locate the end.
• Locate the start, and then enter the length and angle parameters.
• Locate the start, enter one paramete r, and then locate the end.
• Key in the parameters and then locate the start.
Once you indicate a start location, the system will switch to the Parameter
Mode. But, you can still specify an end location without switching back to
Coordinate Mode.

Sketching
Creating Arcs
Arc creation is accessed by choosing the Arc icon on the Sketch Curve toolbar.
Once in arc creation, the icons in the upper left corner of the graphics window
give you two sets of options. The first is creation method, and the second is for
the Coordinate/Parameter Mode.
13
There are two different arc creation methods:
Arc by 3 Points — There are several ways to create the arc with
this method:
• Locate the start, locate the end, and then locate a point on the arc.
• Locate the start, enter a radius value and press Enter, locate the end
point, and then move the cursor to preview and choose which of the
four possible solutions to create.
• The same as the previous, but enter the radius value after locating the
end point, but before the point on arc.
Arc by Center and End Points — There are several ways to create
an arc with this method:
• Locate the cente r, locate the start point, and locate the end point. (The
start point location determines the radius.)
• Locate the cente r, locate the start point, enter a radius value and press
Enter, locate the end point.
• Locate the center, enter radius and sweep angle values and press
Enter, locate the start of the sweep, and specify the direction for the
sweep.
Once you indicate a first location, the system will switch to Parameter
Mode. But you can still specify locations with the cursor without switching
back to Coordinate Mode.

Sketching
Creating Circles
Circle creation is accessed by choosing the Circle icon on the Sketch Curve
toolbar.
Once in circle creation, the icons in the upper left corner of the graphics
window provide two sets of options. The first is creation method, and the
second is for the Coordinate/Parameter Mode.
13
There are two different circle creation options:
Circle by Center and Diameter — There are a few ways to create a

circle with this option:
• Locate the center, and then locate a point on the circumference of
the circle.
• Locate the center, enter a Diameter, and press Enter. The circle is
created. You are then in multiple circle creation mode - just indicate
another location for a circle center.
• Locate the cente r, drag the radius until you get the size you want.
Press Enter. The circle is created, and you are in multiple circle
creation mode. Indicate another cente r.
Circle by 3 Points — There are two ways to create a circle with

this option:
• Locate three points on the circumference of the circle.
• Locate two points on the circumference of the circle, enter a radius

value and press Enter, then choose which of the two options you want
by cursor location.
Once you indicate a first location, the system will switch to the enter
Parameters mode. But you can still give a location without changing
back to XY.

Sketching
Activity — Using the Sketch Profile Tool
In this activity, you will use the Profile tool to create sketch geometry.
Step 1: Open seedpart_in and save it as ***_sketch_profile_1 where ***

represents your initials.
Step 3: Change the Work Layer to 21.

13
Step 4: Create a sketch on the XC-YC plane.
Choose OK to accept the XC-YC Plane.
Step 5: Add icons to the Sketch Constraints toolbar.
Select the Toolbar Options area of the Sketch Constraints

toolbar and choose Add or Remove Buttons? Sketch
Constraints.
Make sure the Infer Constraint Settings and Create Inferred

Constraints icons are toggled on.
You may have to move the toolbar to see the icons after
they are added.
Step 6: Set the Infer Constraints Settings.

This is done so that only the constraints that you may want to
apply will be available during curve creation.

Sketching
Choose the Infer Constraint Settings icon.

(Tools→Constraints→Infer Constraint Settings)
Turn on only the following constraints.

Horizontal
Vertical
Tangent
Parallel
Perpendicular 13
Coincident
Dimensional Constraints
Choose OK.
Step 7: Create a Profile.

In this step you will create the sketch curves shown below using
the Profile tool.
Choose the Profile icon (Insert→Profile) and move

the cursor into the graphics window.
Select a start location with the cursor near the bottom left
corner of the graphics window (approximately XC=-4, YC=-2)

Sketching
Move the cursor so that the rubber-banding line snaps to the

horizonta l orienta tion and the horizontal symbol displays (1)
as shown below.
Notice the horizontal symbol indicating the constraint that is

13 going to be applied to the line.
Press MB2 to lock in the horizontal constraint.

Now notice that as you move the cursor around, the
rubber-banding line remains horizontal.
Key in 3 for the Length and press Enter.
Notice that a dimensional constraint is created automatically.

This is because a Length value was explicitly entered and
the Dimensional Constraints option was turned on in the
Infer Constraint Settings dialog.
Hold MB1 down and drag the cursor straight up from the end
point of the last line and then release.
You are now in Arc creation mode.

Sketching
Key in 1 for the Radius and press Enter.
Key in 180 for the Sweep Angle and press Enter.
Click MB1 in the graphics window to apply.

13
Continue using the Profile tool to create the remaining curves

in the sketch as shown below. You do not have to key in exact
values but just create the approximate shap e.
Close the profile by selecting the end point of the first line.
Dimensions maybe added at a later time to constrain

the remaining curves to specific sizes.
Step 8: Save and close the part.

Sketching
Optional Challenge
Practice sketching the following profiles:
13
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Sketching
Creating Fillets
Fillet creation is accessed by choosin g the Fillet icon on the Sketch Curve
toolbar.
Once in fillet creation, icon options appear in the upper left corner of the
graphics window. The Trim Inputs option (1) determines whether or not the
original curves are trimmed. The Delete Third Curve option (2) determines
whether the middle curve is deleted in a three-curve fillet. The Create
Alternate Fillet option (3) will produce a complementary solution for the fillet
(e.g. a 270 degree arc instead of the default 90 degree arc).
You can create fillets between lines, arcs or conics. You can also create a fillet
between two parallel lines.
There are several ways to create Fillets:
• Select two curves with a single selection (at their intersection), and then
drag the size and quadrant.
• Select two curves individually, and drag the size and quadrant.
• Select one curve, enter a radius value, and select the second curve.
• Select two curves individuall y, enter a radius value, and the indicate the
desired quadrant.
• Drag (with MB1) across the two curves you want to fillet. The size of the
fillet is determined by where the curves are selected.

Sketching
Trim ming and Extending Curves
Quick Trim
This option will allow you to trim any curve to the closest curve in the sketch
and preview the results in preselection color.
13
You can trim multiple curves at one time, by using the "crayon" select method.
Hold down MB1 and drag across the portion of curves you want to trim away.
You can select a specific curve to trim to, by using Ctrl-select to select the
desired boundary curve. More than one bounding curve can be selected using
this method.
In the example below, both the arc on the left and the spline on the right were
Ctrl-selected as boundary curves. With the cursor on the top line, (between
the two boundary curves), the center section is previewed as the portion to
be removed .

Sketching
When a curve is trimmed, appropriate constraints are automatically created.

In the previous example, two Point on Curve constraints and one Collinear
constraint are added. If one of the boundary curves is later trimmed to the
line, the Point on Curve constraint would change to Coincident.
13
If you trim an arc to a line that is tangent, the tangency constraint is retained.

Sketching
Quick Extend
This option will extend lines, arcs and conics to the closest curve in the
sketch. The system will preview the results in the preselection colo r.
The curve being extended must extend to an actual intersection with the
boundary curve.
You can extend multiple curves at one time, by using the "crayon" select
13 method. Hold down MB1 and drag across the ends of curves you want to
extend.
You can also select specific boundary curves by using the control-select
method.
As with Quick Trim, when you use Quick Extend, appropriate constraints are
automatically created.

Sketching
Activity — Creating Fillets
In this activity, you will create fillets in an existing sketch.
Step 1: Open the sketch_fillet_1 part.
13
Step 3: Activate the sketch.
Double-click on any of the sketch curve s.

Turn off the Dimensional Constraints setting.
Choose OK.
Step 5: Create a 4 mm radius fillet using lines L16 and L20 with a single
selection and trimming the lines.
Choose the Fillet icon. (Insert→Fillet)
Make sure Trim Inputs is on (highlighted background).

Sketching
Key in 4 in the Radius field on the graphics window, and press

Enter.
Select both lines at the same ti me, by selecting at their

intersection.
13
Drag the cursor around the screen and notice that you can
select which quadrant you want.
Select in the lower right quadrant to place the fillet in the

desired quadrant.
Step 6: Create a 4 mm fillet using lines L16 and L17 with a single selection
and do not trim the lines.
Turn off Trim Inputs. (background not highlighted)

Sket c h i n g
Select the two lines at their intersection.
Select in the upper right quadrant.

13
Step 7: Create a 4 millimeter fillet between lines L17 and L18. Select by
dragging across the two lines.
The 4.0 Radius value should still be in the text field on the
graphics window.
With MB1 held down, drag across the two lines as below: (This
is another method of selecting the curves to be filleted. The
curves crossed with the "crayon" are the curves selected.)
Notice that the 4 millimeter radius was used.

Sketching
Step 8: Create another fillet between lines L18 and L20 by using the
"crayon", but this time do NOT use a radius value.
Use Backspace to eras e the 4 in the text field.
Drag (with MB1), as shown below:

13
It used the selection location of the curves to determine the

radius.

Sketching
Step 9: Create a fillet between lines L18 and L19, and drag the size and
quadrant.
Individually select the lines L18 and L19.
Drag the cursor around the screen.
Select a location to create an arc similar to the one shown below.
13

Sketching
Activity — Using Quick Tr i m and Quick Extend
In this activity, you will trim and extend existing sketch geometry.
Step 1: Open the sketch_quick_1 part.
13
Step 3: Trim curves with Quick Trim.

Double-click on one of the sketch curves to activate the sketch.
Choose the Quick Trim icon. (Edit→Quick Trim)
Select the line at the loca tion of the arrow below.

Sketching
Hold MB1 down and drag the cursor across the two curves as
shown below.
13
Ctrl-Select the curves (1) and (2) for boundaries. Select on

curves (3) and (4) to trim the center portion.
Step 4: Extending curves with Quick Extend.
Choose the Quick Extend icon. (Edit→Quick Extend)

Sketching
Place the cursor on the arc at location (1) shown belo w.
13
The status line informs you that the curve cannot be extended.
This is because there is no other curve that would intersect the
arc.
Place the cursor on the arc at location (2) shown below.
This time, an intersection is found and a preview is provided.
Select the arc at location (2) to create the extension.

Sketching
Step 5: Continue to experiment with Quick Trim and Quick Extend until
the instructor is ready to continue.
Step 6: Choose the Finish Sketch icon.
13

Sketching
Sketch Points
Sketch objects are defined by theoretical points. A line, for instance, is defined
by two points. The sketcher attempts to mathematically solve for the location
of the points by analyzing the constraints (rules) that are placed on objects.
The points that the sketch solver analyzes are referred to as sketch points. By
controlling the locations of these sketch points the curve itself may be
controlled. There are various ways to control these points. The sketch points
associated with different types of curves are illustrated in the graphic below.
13
Line Arc Circle Fillet
Spline Point Ellipse
Degree-of-Freedom (DOF) Arrows

Degree of freedom arrows are displayed at a sketch point when the solver is
unable to fully determine where the sketch point is located on the sketch
plane based on existing constraints and dimensions. They are only displayed
during the creation of dimensions or constraints.
The DOF arrows can point in both the horizontal and vertical directions. An
arrow pointing to the right means that the sketch point is free to move left or
right in the horizontal direction. An arrow pointing up means that the sketch
point is free to move up or down in the vertical direction.
These arrows provide visual feedba ck while you are constraining the sketch.
Undefined Undefined in Undefined in Defined in

in X and Y Y Direction X Direction X and Y
Directions Directions
(no display)

Sketching
DOF arrows are removed as rules are written that define the location of the
sketch points.
• Arc - Arcs have sketch points at the center and at either end. These
sketch points as well as the radius of the arc may be defined.
• Circle - Circles may have the center point as well as a radius or diameter
defined.
• Ellipse - An ellipse may have the location of its center defined; also, the
parameters for the size and orientation of the ellipse are stored for future 13
editing.
• Fillet - A Fillet is a special case of arc. By definition a fillet is tangent to

the objects with which it is associated and this rule is applied as it is
crea ted. Fillets are also defined by the center and end points but the
tangency will help determine the location of these points.
• Line - Lines may have the sketch points at either end defined.
• Point - Points may be defined relative to other objects or at specific

locations in space.
• Spline - Degree three splines may have their defining points located.
Slopes of the spline at the defining points may also be defined. Splines
that are of a degree other than three may be added to sketches; howeve r,
since their defining points are not located at their knot points, there is no
way to locate their defining points using constraints.
If any of the sketch points that define a curve are unconstrained, the curve is
displayed in the color specified by the Partially Constrained Curves setting
in Preferences→Sketch→Colors. When all defining points are constrained,
the curve will change to the color specified by the Fully Constrained Curves
setting in Preferences→Sketch→Colors. Theses colors only apply during
the creation of dimensions or constraints.

Sketching
Design Intent
The power in sketching is derived from the ability to capture design intent.
You do this by creating rules, called constraints, that dictate how sketch
objects will react to changes.
As many or as few constraints as necessary may be applied to cause the
sketch profile to update in the manner desired.

13 NX sketches are not required to be fully constrained.
Creating Sketch Dimensions

A dimension controls the size of a sketch object, such as the length of a line or
radius of an arc, or the relationship between two objects, such as a distance or
angle.
Dimensions appear in the graphics window. Unlike drafting dimensions,
changing the value of the sketch dimensions changes the shape and or size of
dimensioned objects. This changes any features, such as extrude or revolve
features, that the sketch curves control.
Dimensions may be applied by using

the dimension menu on the Sketch
Constraints toolbar.
1 — The default Inferred Dimensions icon
infers the dimension type based on the
objects that are selected and the position
of the cursor.
2 — The other dimension icons are useful
when the system is unable to infer the
desired dimension type. These different
options are "filters" that when selected
will only allow a speci fic dimension type
to be created.
Certain types of geometry may not be
selectable if they do not coincide with the
dimension type selected.

Sketching
As dimensions are being created, the dimension, its extension lines, and
arrows are displayed as soon as the geometry has been selected.
• Drag the dimension until it is the correct type, for example horizontal
or parallel.
• Place the dimension by clicking MB1.
• Click and drag the dimension to the desired location.
Sometimes, a dimension type may be inferred before all of the geometry has 13
been selected. In this case, continue to select geometry until the correct
dimension type is displayed, or select the icon for the dimension type you
desire and select the geometry again.
An expression is also created for each dimension. The name (1) and value
(2) of the expression appear in a text box in the graphics window after the
dimension has been placed. You may key in a new name or value. Press
the Enter key to activate the change.
Sketch Dimension Dialog
The Sketch Dimensions Dialog icon accesses the Dimensions dialog.

Sketching
You can use the dialog to help create and edit dimensions. You can change the
value of a dimension by either keying it in or using the slider bar.
13
There are also two option menus to change the appearance of the dimension.
The Placement option menu is for defining how the text and arrows of the
dimension will be displayed. Options are for automatic placement of text and
arrows (1), manual text placement with arrows inside the extension lines (2),
or manual text placement with the arrows outside the extension lines (3).
The Leader option menu is for defining whether the dimension’s leader is
attached to the left (1) or right (2) of the dimension text.
Both of these option menus may be used before, during or after dimension
creation.
Text Height
The Text Height controls the displayed height of the dimension text.
Modifying this value will affect the display of all dimensions in the active
sketch.
The Text Height option can also be accessed by choosing

Preferences→Sketch.
The Fixed Text Height option in Sketch? Preferences controls the size of
the dimension text when you zoom. If this option is turned on, the text will
remain the same size relative to the screen as you zoom in and out.

Sketching
Dimension Types
Inferred — The dimension type (except perimeter) is inferred based on

the objects selected and the cursor location.
Horizontal — Specifies a distance constraint between two points with

respect to the X-axis of the sketch coordinate system. Points, points on sketch
curves, edge s, lines, and arcs are selectable. 13
Vertical — Specifies a distance constraint between two points with

respect to the Y-axis of the sketch coordinate system. Points, points on sketch
curves, edge s, lines, and arcs are selectable.

Sketching
Parallel — Specifies a constraint for the shortest distance between two

sketch points. All sketch objects are selectable using this method. The points
selected will be inferred from the objects selected.
13
Perpendicular — Specifies a distance constraint measured

perpendicular to a selected line and a point. If the desired point is an
endpoint of a line, this endpoint must be selected as the second object.
Angular — Specifies an angular constraint between two linear objects.
Radius — Specifies a radial size constraint for an arc or circle.

Sketching
Diameter — Specifies a diameter size constraint for an arc or circle.
13
Perimeter — Constrains the collective lengths of lines and arcs to a
desired value. After selecting the curves and choosing MB2, an expression
is automatically generated with a “Perimeter_” prefix added to the name.
(i.e. Perimeter_p7=6.456). There will be no graphical representation of this
constraint in the graphics window.

Sketching
Activity — Adding Dimensional Constraints
In this activity, you will capture the design intent for a part by adding rules
that will control how the part is to change. These rules allow the part to be
easily modified.
The included angle of the adjustment slot should change from 45° to
75° by dimensional constraints.
Step 1: Open angle_adj_1.

13 Step 2: Start the Modeling application.
Step 3: Add the required dimensions.

Double-click on one of the sketch curves to activate the sketch.
Choose Preferences? Sketch.
Verify the Text Height is set to .10 and choose OK.
Choose the Inferred Dimensions icon.

(Insert→Dimensions→Inferred)
Select the lower angled line (1, not endpoint).
The system infers that you wish to create a horizontal, vertical,

or parallel dimension depending on the placement of the cursor
relative to the geometry. DO NO T PLACE THE DIMENSION!

Sketching
Select the upper angled line (2, not endpoint).
13
Select a cursor location to place the dimension.
Select the horizontal line (1, not endpoint) across the bottom.
Select the lower angled line (2, not endpoint).

Sketching
Select a cursor location to place the dimension.
13
Choose MB2 to exit dimension creation mode.
Step 4: Change the viewpoint.

Choose MB3? Orient View to Model.
There are times, such as geometry creation, when looking directly

at the plane of the sketch is beneficial. At other times, it may
help to change the view point to see the effects of changes on the
geometry.

Sketching
Editing Dimen sions

The editing of dimensions may be achieved as follows:
• To edit the value or the name, simply double -click on the dimension and
edit the value or the name in the text box and press Enter.
• To edit the position, place cursor over a dimension, press and hold down
MB1, and simply drag the dimension’s location.
• Additional editing that may be done with the Dimensions dialog as listed
below: 13
Name — Key in a new name in the text entry field.
Value — Key in a new value in the text entry field or use
the slider.
Position — Click and hold MB1 on the dimension and drag
to new position.
Text placement — Select a different option from the option menu.
Leader side — Select a different option from the option menu.
Text height — Key in a new text size in the text entry field.
The name and value of a dimension may also be edited by using the
Expressions dialog. As dimensions are edited, the constraints are
evaluated and the geometry is modified.
Delay Evaluation
Delay Evaluation prevents geometry changes as one or more dimensions are

modified. This is available as an icon on the Sketcher toolbar or by choosing
Tools→Delay Sketch Evaluation.
Evaluate Sketch
Evaluate Sketch controls sketch evaluation when Delay Evaluation is on.

(Sketches are evaluated automatically when you exit from the Constraints
dialog.) This is available as an icon on the Sketcher toolbar or by choosing
Tools→Evaluate Sketch
Update Model
Update Model forces the model to update without leaving the sketch function.
(The model is updated automatically when you exit from the sketch
environment.) This is available as an icon on the Sketcher toolbar or by
choosing Tools→Update Model.

Sketching
Retain Dimensions
When a sketch is deactivated the dimensions are normally hidden. Retain
Dimensions is a toggle in the Sketch Preferences dialog to retain
dimension display after the sketch is deactivated.
13
Retain Dimensions applies only to the active sketch, thus to suit your needs
you may have a mixture of sketches with and without retained dimensions.
Use this setting when you need to display dimensions without an active
sketch, for example to reference expression names between sketches, when
creating features, or for plotting.
1 2- 5 8 Modeling NX4 ©UGS C or poration , All Rights Reserve d br100 5 0 _ g N X 4

Sketching
Activity — Editing Sketch Dimensions
In this activity, you will edit dimensional constraints and see that they do not
sufficiently control the angle bracket from the previous activity.
Step 3: Change the layer settings.

Make layer 1 Selectab le.
13

Sketching
Step 4: Edit a dimension.

Place the cursor over a sketch curve and choose MB3? Edit.
Double-click on the 45° dimension.
In the dynamic input field, key in 75 and press Enter.
13

Sketching
Step 5: Edit another dimension.

Double-click on the 15° dimension.
In the dynamic input field, key in 25° and press Enter.
13
Notice how the geometry updates.

Basic geometric assumptions that we make when we look at this
geometry are not specified to the system, i.e. the bottom line has no
horizontal constraint applied. If the geometry had been created in
the sketch rather than added to the sketch some of these geometric
assumptions would have been added to the geome try as constraints
during the creation process.

Sketching
Choose Undo twice. (MB3→Undo)
Close the part.

13

Sketching
Geometric Constraints
A geometric constraint establishes a geometric characteristic of a sketch
object (su ch as defining a line as being horizontal) or the type of relationship
between two or more objects (such as requiring that two lines be parallel or
perpendicula r, or that several arcs have the same radius).
Unlike dimensional constraints, geometric constraints have no editable
numeric values; a constant angle constraint, for instance, simply dictates that
the line stay at the angle it is at when the constraint is applied. 13
To create geometric constraints, choose the Constraints icon, select the
objects, and choose the desired constraint from the icon option bar that
appears in the upper left corner of the graphics window. Only icons for
constraints that apply to the selected geometry will be displayed.
You may also choose the constraint from an MB3 pop-up menu after selecting
the geometry.
To assign multiple constraints at one time, press the Ctrl key while
selecting the objects. The icon option bar for the constraints will
then remain in the upper left corner of the graphics window after
you choose the first constraint. You can use MB2 or the Esc key to
cancel creation of constraints.

Sketching
Types of Geometric Constr aints
Coincident Constrains two or more points as having the

same location.
Collinear Constrains two or more linear objects as lying on

or passing through the same theoretical straight
line.
Concentric Constrains two or more arcs as having the same
cente r.
13
Constant Angle Constrains a line so as to remain in its current
orientation without input of an angular value.
Constant Length Constrains a line so as to remain at its current

length without input of a length value.
Equal Length Constrains two or more lines as being the same

length.
Equal Radius Constrains two or more arcs as having the same

radius value.
Fixed Constrains unchangeable characteristics for

geometry, depending on the type of geometry
selected. You can apply a Fixed constraint to an
individual sketch point or to an entire object.
Horizontal Constrains a line as being parallel to the FCS
X-axis.
Midpoint Constrains the location of a point to be

equidistant from both ends of the curve.
Select the curve anywhere other than at

its end points.
Parallel Constrains two or more linear objects as being
parallel to each other.
Perpendicular Constrains two linear objects as being

perpendicular to each other.
Point on Curve Constrains the location of a point as lying on the

path or projection of a curve.
Point on String Constrains the location of a point as lying on an

extracted string.

Sketching
Scale, Non– When applied, a spline will scale in the horizontal

Uniform direction while keeping the original dimensions
in the vertical direction during modification.
Scale, Uniform A spline will scale proportionally in both the
horizontal and vertical when the horizontal
length change s.
Slope of Curve Constrains a spline, selected at a defining point,
and another object as being tangent to each other
at the selected point.
Tangent Constrains two objects as being tangent to each
13
other.
Vertical Constrains a line as being parallel to the FCS

Y-axis.
Displaying Constraint Symbols

Constraint symbols are displayed when a sketch is active. Symbols for
Coincident, Point on Curve, Midpoint, Tangent, and Concentric are always
displayed.
The Show All Constraints option will display the symbols for all the
constraints in the active sketch.
The various constraint symbols are shown below:
Fixed Constant Angle

Collinear Concentric
Horizontal Tangent
Vertical Equal Radius
Parallel Coincident
Perpendicular Point on Curve
Equal Leng th Midpoint of Curve
Constant Length Point on String
Mirror Scale, Uniform
Slope of Curve Scale, Non-Uniform
If the sketch curves are relatively small (the view is zoomed out), the
symbols may not be displayed. You may need to zoom in to see them.
Sketching
Show/Remove Constraints
Show/Remove Constraints helps you manage constraints. The constraints

may be listed by object(s) or all of the constraints of the active sketch may
be listed at once.
1 — List all constraints

or by object(s).
2 — Filter for the type

of constraint to list.
3 — Determines if the
filtered constraint types
will be included or excluded.
4 — Category of
constraints to list.
5 — Actions to take on the

listed constraints.
13
Constraint Interrogation
While the Show/Remove dialog is displayed, you can determine what
constraints are present by passing the selection ball over a sketch object. If
the object has an associated constraint, the object will be pre-highlighted
along with any other objects that share the constraint. The constraint symbol
will appear next to the sketch objects. If an object which has no constraints
associated with it, it will not highlight.

Sketching
Constraint Categories
There are two major categories of constraints, Explicit and Inferred. Explicit
constraints are constraints that you create by assignment using the
constraints dialog or by virtue of the creation method. Inferred constraints
are Coincident constraints that the system has inferred and created
during the curve creation process. You have the option to list only Explicit
constraints, only Inferred constraints, or both.
13
Constraint Listing
The constraints may also be listed in the Show/Remove Constraints dialog by
selecting one of the three options at the top of the dialog window.
Selected Object Once an object is selected, the associated

constraints, depending on the selected constraint
category, are listed in the dialog. To view
constraints associated with a different sketch
object, simply select the new object.
Selected Objects Allows the selection of multiple objects; the
associated constraints, depending on the selected
constraint category, are listed in the dialog. Objects
may be deselected by holding the shift key down
and selecting the object.
All in Active List all the constraints of the active sketch,
Sketch depending on the selected constraint category.
Listing Box
Any time there are constraints listed in the list box they may be browsed by
selecting the constraint to highlight it. When the constraint is highlighted in
the list box, the sketch object(s) that is associated with it is also highlighted in
the graphics window. The Step Up the List and Step Down the List buttons
allow easy navigation through the various constraints. The Up and Down
arrows on most keyboards will mimic this behavior.

Sketching
Information
The Information button located on the Show/Remove Constraints dialog will
list all of the cons traints in the active sketch to the information window.
This is useful should there be a need to make a hard copy of the constraints
or save them as a text file.
Removing Constraints
Constraints may be deleted by these methods:

13 • Highlight them in the Show/Remove Constraints dialog List box and select
Remove Highlighted Constraint(s), or just double click them in the list.
• Turn on Select Constraints (on the Selection toolbar), select the constraint
symbol on the graphics window, and then choose the Delete icon.
• Turn on Select Constraints, select the constraint symbol on the graphics

window, and then use MB3→Delete to delete selected constraint.
Undo
Undo from the Edit pull-down menu, the Undo icon on the Standard toolbar,
the MB3 pop-up menu, or the accelerator keys. Undo takes the user actions
back one step at a time.
After an Undo is performed, the Redo option is available in the Edit

pulldown menu or Standard toolbar.
Dragging Geometry
Under constrained geometry can be dragged only when not in a constraint
creation mode. Simply hold down and drag MB1 while on the selected
curve(s) or point(s).
Selection
When in the Sketcher Task Environment, the selection toolbar changes. It
has two icons that are only available in the Sketche r.
Select Sketch Objects allows selection of curves and dimensions
in the sketch.
Select Constraints allows selection of constraint symbols in the
graphics window.

Sketching
Con straint Conditions
When either the Dimensions or Constraints option is chosen, the Status line
lists the constraint condition for the active sketch. A sketch may be fully
constrained, under constrained, or over constrained. When the sketch is
under constrained the Status line will indicate the number of constraints
needed.
Sketch needs 4 constraints

Sketch is fully constrained
Sketch contains over constrained geometry 13
A sketch is evaluated each time a constraint is placed upon the sketch. Each
time a sketch is evaluated, the system attempts to solve the set of constraints
that describe how the geometric objects are positioned and their relationships
with each other.
Fully Constrained
In order to completely capture the design intent of a particular profile, it may
be beneficial to fully constrain the sketch. This occurs when the solver is able
to completely define all sketch geometry.
There is no requirement to fully constrain a sketch. The design intent has
been captured sufficiently when the constraint set applied to the profile
causes it to update in the intended manner.
Under Constrained
A sketch is under constrained when there is insufficient information to

completely locate each sketch point. Degree -of-freedom arrows are displayed
at each point that can not be solved to identify the direction in which that
point remains free to move.
Over Constrained
A sketch is over constrained when too much constraint information is
supplied to the solve r. For example, if an Equal Length constraint is applied
to two lines and then dimensions are added to each to constrain their length,
the sketch would be over constrained.
The geometry and dimensional constraints that are causing the over
constrained condition are highlighted in a different color to help you identify
and resolve the issue. This color is determined by the Overconstrained Curves
and Dimensions setting in the Sketch Preferences.
An unwanted constraint must be removed before the system will change the
geometric configuration. The sketch remains in the last solved condition.

Sketching
Conflicting Constraints
Dimensional constraints and geometry that are in conflict in the current
configuration with the current constraint set are also highlighted in a
different colo r. This indicates that the constraint set that has been supplied is
not solvable with the geometry in its current configuration. Constraints may
need to be added or removed in order for the sketcher to be able to solve the
constraint set. The highlight color is determined by the Conflicting Curves
and Dimensions setting in the Sketch Preferences.
13

Sketching
Activity — Adding Constraints
In this activity you will add constraints to the angle adjustment bracket to
cause the expected update to occur when a dimension is modified.
Step 3: Add the required constraints.

Place the cursor over a sketch curve and choose MB3? Edit.
13
Choose the Constraints icon. (Insert→Constraints)

Sketching
Select the line (1) at the bottom of the sketch.
13
Choose Horizontal in the upper left corner of the graphics

window. (MB3→Horizontal)
This constraint will keep the line from rotating around when
dimensions are modified.
There are six places where the curvature transitions need to
maintain tangency.

Sketching
Select the six tangent curve pairs near the six points shown
below, two adjacent curves at a ti me, and apply aTangent
constraint to each pai r. Be careful to select on the correct half
of the arc.
13
Lastly, the two arcs at the top of the slot should remain
concentric.

Sketching
Select the two upper arcs (1) and apply a Concentric constraint.
13
The slot should now be constrained such that the angle may be
adjusted while the configuration remains as intended.
Choose MB2 to turn the Constraints option off.
Step 4: Edit the dimensions.

Double-click on the 45° dimension and change it to 75°.
The sketch geometry changes in the expected manner.

Sketching
Step 5: Apply the change to the solid geometry.
Choose the Update Model icon. (Tools→Update Model)
13

Sketching
Activity — Constraining a Profile
Constrain the pipe vise sketch to satisfy the stated design intent.
Apply constraints to the curves so that the following may be

controlled:
• The outside envelope of the part.
• The included angle of the angled line s.

13
• The angled lines must remai n centered in the part horizontally.
• The width of the slot at the bottom of the angled lines is controlled
by the radius at the bottom of the slot.
Step 1: Open pipevise_1.
Step 3: Activate the sketch.
Double-click on a sketch curve.
Step 4: View the system applied constraints.
Choose the Show/Remove Constraints icon.

(Tools→Constraints→Show/Remove Constraints)
Choose All In Active Sketch in the List Constraints For: area

of the dialog.
Sketching
Verify the Show Constraints option is set to Explicit.

The system created constraints are now displayed in the list
box. The dialog should look similar to the graphic shown below.
13
Choose the first constraint in the list.

The object referred to in the list is highlighted in the graphics
window. There should be one horizontal line highlighted.
Use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons located to the right of

the list box to browse through the constraint list.
Cancel the Show/Remove Constraints dialog.
Step 5: View the degree of freedom arrows.
Turn on the Constraints icon. (Insert→Constraints)

Sketching
Notice that there are degree of freedom arrows at each of the

sketch points. Even though most of the objects in the sketch have
constraints associated with them, the sketch points are free to
move in all directions. This is because the system cannot locate
any of the points relative to model space.
13
Step 6: Constrain the location of a point.

Select the lower endpoint of the left vertical line.
Select the vertical datum axi s.
Choose the Point on Curve icon in the upper left corner

of the graphics window.
The geometry now changes to follow the constraint. The point
at the bottom of the left vertical line is now constrained in the
horizontal direction.
Select the left endpoint of the bottom horizontal line.

Sketching
Select the horizontal datum axis.
Choose the Point on Curve icon.
The geometry now changes to follow the new constraint. The

shared sketch point at the bottom of the left vertical line is now
constrained in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The
degree of freedom arrows go away and, due to the horizontal
and vertical constraints on the lines that share the sketch
point, one of the arrows on the opposite end of those lines has 13
disappeared.
Choose MB2 to cancel the Constraints mode.
Step 7: Move the datum planes and axes to layer 61.

The datums have served their purpose of locating the sketch. You
will now move them to ease selection of objects and clean up the
screen display.
Choose Edit? Object Display.
Choose the Class Selection icon in the upper left corner of the
graphics window.
Choose Type.

Sketching
Choose Datums and choose OK.
Choose Select All and OK.
Key in 61 for the Layer in the dialog and press Enter.
Step 8: Continue adding constraints to satisfy the stated design intent.
13 Turn on the Constraints icon. (Insert→Constraints)
Hold the Ctrl key down and select the two horizontal lines (1)
at the top of the profile.
Choose Collinear and Equal Length.
Use the Esc key to deselect all the curves.

(Edit→Selection→Deselect All).
Select the right side of the arc at the bottom of the slot (1).
Select the short right vertical line (2, but not on the end point).

Sketching
Choose Tangent.
Create another Tangent constraint on the other side of the slot,

selecting the left side of the arc and the left vertical line.
Hold the Ctrl key down and select the bottom horizontal line
and the lower endpoint of the line originating from the arc
cente r.
13
Choose Point on Curve.
Choose Midpoint.
Use the Esc key to deselect all the curves.

(Edit→Selection→Deselect All).
Select the line (1), shown below, between the midpoint and
the arc center.
Choose Vertical.
Adding dimensional constraints to satisfy the controlling

portions of the design intent will allow the profile to be changed
by modifying the numerical values.

Select the bottom horizontal line. Drag the dimension to

position it and select with MB1 to place it.

Sketching
Key in a value of 5 and press Enter.

Notice the curves change color as they become constrained.
Fit the view if necessary.
Select the left vertical line and place the dimension for it.
Change the value to 3.75.
Select the top left horizontal line and place the dimension.
13 Cha nge its value to .5.
Fit the view if necessary.
Select the left angled line (1) and the top left horizontal line
(2), avoiding the end points. Place the angular dimension and
change its value to 45°.

Sketching
Select the right angled line and the top right horizontal line,
avoiding the end points. Place this angular dimension and
chang e its value to the ’p’ number assigned to the other angular
dimension.
13
Select the arc at the bottom of the slot. Place the radius
dimension and change its value to .25.
Select the line connecting the arc center and the midpoint and
place this vertical dimension. Cha nge its value to 1.5 and
choose Enter.
The Status line now informs you that the sketch is fully
constrained. Remember that it is not necessarily required
to fully constrain the profile if it is updating in the manner
desired.

Sketching
Step 9: Change the constraints on the sketch to alter the included angle in
the notch.
Click on the first angular dimensional constraint that was
created and change it from a 45° to 30°.
13
Notice that the depth of the notch is unchanged as a result of

this edit. Should that have not been our intent, we would have
to constrain the sketch in a different manner.

Sketching
Activity — Sketchin g and Constraining a Gasket
In this activity, you will create and constrain a gasket. To efficiently capture
the design intent, constraints and dimensions will be added progressively.
The center hole is the origin of the gasket. The three holes are located
on a horizontal axis. The lines on the outer boundary of the profile
are tangent to the arcs.
13
Step 1: Open the seedpart_in part and save it as ***_gasket_1 where ***
represents your initials.
Step 3: Create the sketch on a Datum CSY S.

Change the Work Layer to 21 so that the part will be compliant
with class standards.
Click on the sketch name; key in s21_profile and press Enter.
Choose Datum CSYS.
Choose Absolute CSYS.
Choose OK.
Sketching
The X-Y plane of the Datum CS Y S is highlighted as the default

sketch plane.
Choose OK to accept the default plane.
Step 4: Set the Infer Cons traint Settings.
13 Choose the Infer Constraint Settings icon.

Verify that the following constraints are turned on.
Concentric
Coincident
Choose OK.
Step 5: Create the circles in the center of the gasket.
Verify that Control Point is turned on in the Snap Point

toolbar.
Select the existing point at the origin of the Datum CSY S.

Sketching
Drag the cursor to preview circle as shown below. Key in a

Diameter value of 2 and press Enter.
13
The first circle is created.
Key in a Diameter value of 3 for the second circle and press

Enter.
Choose MB2.
The two circles are fully constrained because of the dimensional

and geometric constraints that were inferred as you created them.

Sketching
Step 6: Create a circle representing the hole on the left side.
Click and drag to create a circle near on left side of the graphics
window. Key in a Diameter value of 0.5 and press Enter.
13 Choose the Constraints icon. (Insert→Constraints)
Select the arc center of the circle and the horizontal datum axis.
Choose Point on Curve .

Create a perpendicular dimension from the vertical datum

axis to the arc center of the left circle. Change the value of
the dimension to 2.625.
Step 7: Create a circle for the outer boundary on the left side.
Create another circle in the left side of the graphics window
with a diameter of 1.

Sketching
Select the two circles on the left side and choose Concentric.
13
Step 8: Create circles representing the hole and outer boundary on the
right side.
Create two circles on the right side of the graphics window
representi ng the hole and the outer boundary of the gasket. Do
not explicitly enter the diameter values. You will constrain
them to be equal to existing circle s.
Select the two new circles on the right and choose Concentric.

Sketching
Select the arc center of the circles on the right and the
horizontal datum axis and choose Point on Curve.
Select the smaller circle on the left and the smaller circle on
the right and choose Equal Radius.
Select the larger circle on the left and the larger circle on the
13
right and choose Equal Radius.

Create a horizontal dimension from the arc center of the left

circles to the arc center of the right circles. Change the value of
the dimension to 5.25.
Step 9: Set the Infer Constraint Settings before creating the lines.

Disable all constraints except Point on Curve and Tangent.
Choose OK.
Step 10: Create the tangent lines on the outer boundary of the gasket.
Sketching
Choose the Line icon. (Insert→Line)
In the Snap Point toolbar, disable all options except Point on
Curve.
Create the lines by selecting the circles representing the outer

boundary of the gasket. Select the circles by placing the cursor
near the expected tangenc y. 13
You should see Point on Curve and Tangent constraint symbols

on each end of the lines as they are created.
The Quick Trim option could be used to trim the circle s.

Howeve r, when extruding the sketch to create a solid
body, it is possible to define the correct boundary of the
gasket without trimming.
Step 11: Choose the Finish Sketch icon.
Step 12: Choose File? Close? Save and Close.

Sketching
Convert To/From Reference
At times it is useful to add a dimension to a sketch to see the effect of a

change numerically. Adding a dimensional constraint, howeve r, would cause
the sketch to become over constrained. It also may be necessary to add
sketch curves to aid in the construction and constraining of a profile without
representing a portion of the swept feature.
To support these needs, curve and dimensional constraints within a sketch
13 may be converted to and from a Reference status.
• To convert objects, select them in the graphics window and choose Convert
To/From Reference from the MB3 pop-up menu.
• You may access a dialog by choosing the Convert To/From

Reference icon from the Sketch Constraints toolbar
(Tools? Constraints? Convert To/From Reference).
• Reference curves are displayed in a phantom line font and are ignored
during sweep operations.
• Reference curves and dimensions are displayed in colors specified

by the Reference Curves and Reference Dimensions settings in
Preferences? Sketch? Colors.
• Reference dimensional constraints are displayed with only the value

portion of the expression. The values will be updated as the sketch is
changed, but they do control the sketch geometry with which they are
associated.
Dimensions can be made reference as they are created by choosing
Create Reference Dimension in the icon option bar.

Sketching
Activity — Constraint Conditions

In this activity, you will constrain and edit a simple sketch to change the
design intent. This configuration is not one that you would likely sketch, but
its simplicity illustrates the concept of an over-constrained condition.
Apply constraints to control the length and width of the sketch. The
shape of the sketch should remain rectangular.
13
Step 1: Open seedpart_in.
Step 3: Create a sketch on Layer 21.

Change the work layer to 21.
Choose Datum CSYS.
Choose Absolute CSYS.
Choose OK.
The X-Y plane of the Datum CS Y S is highlighted as the default
sketch plane.
Choose OK.
Sketching
Choose the Infer Constraints Settings icon.

Verify that the following constraints are turned on.

Horizontal
Vertical
Parallel
Perpendicular
Coincident
Choose OK.
Step 5: Create a rectangle.
Choose the Rectangle icon. (Insert→Rectangle)
Verify that Control Point is turned on in the Snap Point

toolbar.

Sketching
Drag the cursor to preview the rectangle and select a cursor

location near the upper right corner of the graphics window.
13
Step 6: Interrogate the constraints that currently exist for this sketch.
Choose the Show/Remove Constraints icon.

(Tools→Constraints→Show/Remove Constraints)
Choose All In Active Sketch.
Set the Show Cons traints to Explicit.
Highlight the first constraint in the list and use the down
arrow button to browse the constraints.
Choose Cancel.
Step 7: Apply dimensional constraints to control the length and width of

the rectangle as per the design intent.

Sketching

Select the left vertical line and place the dimension. Change
the value to 2.75.
Select the bottom horizontal line and place the dimension.

Change the value to 4.5.
13
As dimensional constraints are being created, the
degree-of-freedom arrows are eliminated and the curves change to
the fully constrained colo r. The sketch is fully constrained with one
vertical and one horizontal dimensional constraint, along with the
geometric constraints inferred when the lines were constructed.
Design Change — Modify the sketch so that it can be
controlled by the angle and length of a diagonal line.
Step 8: Create a diagonal line in the sketch and convert it to reference.
Choose the Line icon. (Insert→Line)
In the Snap Point toolbar, disable all options except Control
Point.
Select the lower left endpoint and the upper right endpoint of
the rectangle to define the line.
Step 9: Convert the diagonal line to Reference status.

Sketching
Choose MB2 to exit the line creation mode.
Select the diagonal line.
Choose MB3? Convert To/From Reference.
Step 10: Apply an angular dimensional constraint.

(Insert→Dimensions→Inferred) 13
Select the lower horizontal line (not the endpoint) and the
diagonal line (not the endpoint). Indicate a location for the
angular dimension and change the value to 35°.
The Status line indicates that sketch is now over constrained.
The sketch objects associated with the over constrained
condition change to the color specified by the Overconstrained
Curves and Dimensions setting in the Sketch Preference s.
To correct the over constrained condition, one or more of the
offending constraints must by removed. The new design intent
is to control the sketch with angular and diagonal length
dimensions.

Sketching
Step 11: Apply a parallel dimensional constraint.

Select the diagonal line and place a parallel dimension. Change
the value of the dimension to 6.5.
13
Notice that the sketch configuration does not change when the
value is modified. The system leaves the geometry in its last
solved state until the over constrained condition is resolved.
Step 12: Convert sketch dimensions to reference.

Choose MB2 to exit the dimension creation mode.
Select the horizontal and vertical dimensions.
Choose MB 3? Convert To/From Reference.

The sketch is returned to a fully constrained condition. The
reference dimensions reflect the value only. They do not control
the geometry to which they are attached.
The over constrained condition could also have been resolved
by deleting the horizontal and vertical dimensions.

Sketching
Summary
This lesson introduced the concept of sketch creation.
Sketches may be used to define a base feature, guide paths, and additional
associative features to the base feature.
A sketch parametrically controls curves. It can also be defined on a sketch
plane whi ch is associative to a datum plane/face of a model. Both of these
benefits allow you to capture and maintain design intent.
Constraints are applied to sketch objects in order to capture the design intent. 13
The level of constraint, partial or full, is determined by the design intent
and what is necessary to capture it.
In this lesson you:
• Created sketches on datum planes, solid faces, and a Datum CSYS.
• Created freehand curves in a sketch.
• Created and edited dimensional constraints.
• Created inferred and explicit geometric constraints.
• Converted sketch curves and dimensions to reference status.

13

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Lesson

Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Create sketch curves.

• Apply dimensional constraints to sketches.

• Apply geometric constraints to sketche s.

• Convert a sketch curve to reference.

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A sketch is a collection of two-dimensional geometry within a part. Each

13 • Detailed part features by sweeping, extruding, or revolving a sketch into a

• Large-scale 2D concept layouts.

• Construction geometry, such as a path of motion, or a clearance arc, that

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Using Sketches for Detail Part Features

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• Potential Areas for Change — Known design changes or iterations, and

their effects on the part configuration.

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Sketches and the Part Navigator

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Organizing the data in a part is an important aspect of modeling. The

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Creating a New Sketch

Defining a Sketch Plane

1 – Sketch in Place 4 – YC– ZC Pla ne 7 – Datum CSYS

Defining the Sketch as the Base Feature

To accept the plane, choose OK (MB2).

After the plane is accepted, the view in the graphics window is

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Associate Sketch to Existing Face or Reference Feature

• Define the horizontal or vertical reference.

To create a rela tive Datum Plane on the fly:

• Select the required objects to define the Datum Plane.

• Choose OK in the Datum Plane dialog.

• Define the horizontal or vertical referenc e.

A similar procedure can be used to create a rela tive Datum CSYS

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Defining the Reference Direction

The direction of an axis may be changed as follows:

If a datum plane is selected to define the sketch plane, a Z axis will

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The sketch can also be renamed by choosing Sketch→Sketch Properties.

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In any given part there may be numerous sketches of different features at

There are also a few ways to deactivate an active sketch:

• Choose the Finish Sketch icon.

• Choose Sketch? Finish Sketch.

• Activate a different sketch.

• Choose Sketch? New and create a new sketch.

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Sketch Creation Steps

Sketch for a B ase Feature

• Set the work layer for the sketch.

• Choose the Sketch icon.

• Define the sketch plane on a WCS plane (XC-YC, YC-ZC, or ZC-XC) or 13

• Name the sketch.

Sketch on an Existing Face or Reference Feature

• Set the work layer for the sketch.

• Choose the Sketch icon.

• Define the horizontal or vertical reference

• Name the sketch.

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Activity — Sketch Creation