Creating Parts: in This Chapter

4
Creating Parts
In this chapter
This tutorial develops techniques you learned in the previ- ■ Analyzing design
ideas to simplify
ous chapter. You use sketches to create features, position sketching
■ Selecting the base
standard features such as holes, and then combine them to feature
■ Planning the order in
create a part. You analyze your design and build a model so
which to add features
that you can easily incorporate changes. This is a problem- ■ Stabilizing features
with constraints and
solving process that you can apply to any parts you create. dimensions
■ Creating features that
In this tutorial, you create a saddle bracket in two phases. remain fixed relative
to work planes and
work axes
First, you create all of the features of the part in rough form.
■ Refining features
Then, you refine these features to complete the part. ■ Adjusting features
according to design
changes
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Key Terms
Term Definition
base feature The first feature you create. As the basic element of your part, it should represent
its simplest shape, not every detail. All geometry you create for a part depends on
the base feature.
consumed sketch A sketch that is used in a feature. An example is a profile sketch that is extruded.
The sketch is consumed by the feature.
Desktop Browser Graphical representation of features that comprise a part or drawing views. With
Part or Assembly tab selected, parts may be edited, including changing dimen-
sions, and adding or deleting constraints.
placed features Well-defined mechanical shapes that do not require sketches, such as holes,
chamfers, and fillets. They are constrained to the feature on which they are
placed, and they are geometrically dependent.
sketch plane A temporary drawing surface that corresponds to a real plane on a feature. It is an
infinite plane with both X and Y axes on which you sketch or place a feature.
sketched features A three-dimensional solid whose shape is defined by constrained sketches and
located parametrically on a part. Sketched features are extruded, revolved, or
swept.
work axis A parametric construction line created along the centerline of a cylindrical feature.
A work axis may be used as the axis of revolution for a revolved feature, to place a
work plane, locate new sketch geometry, and may be included in dimensions.
work features Work axes, work points, and work planes used to construct and position features
where there is no face on which to sketch or place a feature. Constrain or dimen-
sion to work features in order to maintain symmetry throughout updates.
work plane An infinite plane parametrically attached to a part on which to sketch. A work
plane may be included in a constraint scheme or dimensions.
work point A parametric work feature used to position a hole, center of an array, or other
point for which there is no other geometric reference.
Chapter 4 Creating Parts

78
Key Concepts
You construct a model bit by bit, fashioning shapes to add to it and using
tools to cut away the portions you do not need. In the Mechanical Desktop,
these shapes are the features you create.
Analyzing the Rough Sketch

You may be accustomed to jotting down design ideas on paper, starting with
a rough outline for a part and adding details as you go. Working with the
Mechanical Desktop is similar: you invest some thought into your idea, plan-
ning how best to implement your concept.
In general, you follow this process to develop a part design:
■ Look at the whole part and decide how it can be broken down into simple
shapes.
■ Identify the most simple element to use as your base feature.
■ Decide in what order to create additional features.
■ Determine the methods you will use to create the features.
■ As you build individual features, review them and adjust your ideas about
how they should relate to one another.
■ As you adjust your strategy, you can revise the features you created earlier.
Early planning expresses your design in modular, simple terms. When changes
occur, as they often do in design work, you can easily accommodate them with
the Mechanical Desktop’s parametric capabilities.
As you study the part to determine the features you need and the order in
which to create them, also notice relationships and patterns of the shapes.
Some features may be symmetrical, but others may be built most easily from
simple shapes combined to form compound shapes.
The saddle bracket in the rough sketch has four distinct features: the saddle
itself, the mounting lugs, a boss, and strengthening ribs.
boss
rib
saddle
lug
Key Concepts
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The part is symmetrical. Visualize two perpendicular centerlines, one along
the axis of the boss and another intersecting both lugs. As you create this part,
consider this symmetry as you constrain features.
As you build the saddle bracket, you learn to create features according to the
relationships among them. In this case, the base feature of the part is the
saddle and lugs. Because the remaining features attach to the saddle and lugs,
you create the main shape first. The next feature you create is the boss because
it rests directly on the saddle. Finally, you create the ribs because they attach
to both the saddle and the boss.
front view top view
Creating the Rough Part

In the saddle bracket, features are present but lack details such as the arch of
the saddle, the mounting holes for the lugs, and the pipe hole for the boss.
Despite the missing details, the shape of the part and placement of features
is symmetrical.
To begin, copy the saddle.dwg file. Your copy of the drawing opens with a
blank display.
TIP It is good practice to copy tutorial files so that you can always open the
original drawings. That way, any mistakes you make while you are learning will
not replace the master tutorial files. For more information about how to copy a
tutorial drawing file, see “Copying Tutorial Drawing Files” on page 34.

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Understanding the Desktop Browser
When you opened your copy of the saddle.dwg, you probably noticed the
Desktop Browser on the left side of your screen. The Browser is a graphical
representation of all geometry you create. When you opened the file, the
Browser automatically assumed that you wanted to create the first part in an
assembly.
The assembly is named for the current file. When you create the first sketch
profile, a part is automatically named and numbered. Because the first thing
you create is a sketch, it is nested under the part. So, as you can see, these
objects are automatically created in a hierarchy.
The icons at the bottom of the Browser control toolbar display. In this exercise,
you can select the Part toolbar. As you gain experience, you will use a combi-
nation of icons and menu options. Click the lightning bolt icon to update
geometry after you make changes.
In this exercise, you create only one part, but if you wanted to continue creating
parts and placing them into an assembly, they would be represented as indi-
vidual parts. Periodically, you will look at the Browser to see how the individual
objects you create are represented. When you gain experience using the
Mechanical Desktop, the Browser becomes a convenient way to manage data.
In the Browser, you can show as much or as little detail as you wish. You can
collapse levels if you want. When there is more information, a plus sign is
shown beside an object. You click the plus sign to reveal more levels.
You can drag the Browser to a convenient location on your screen. If you
wish, click a corner and pull diagonally to resize the Browser.
Understanding the Desktop Browser

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Creating Base Features
The overall shape of the saddle bracket is simple. First, you sketch a shape to
represent the saddle and lugs.
saddle arch
Next, you convert the sketch to a base feature and modify its shape by inter-
secting it with a second feature. Intersecting the base feature is analogous to
cutting away material that does not belong.
When you create these features, you position them symmetrically using
construction aids called a work axis and a work plane. Like other features,
you include work features in your constraint scheme to maintain symmetry
throughout future updates to the part.
work plane
work axis

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Creating the Base Feature
After you have a strategy, you are ready to sketch, constrain, and extrude the
base feature of the part. Begin by creating a sketch of the block and converting
it to a profile sketch.
To create the profile sketch

1 Use PLINE to sketch this shape. Draw the shape as large as possible within the
current extents of the screen.
TIP Use the cursor crosshairs to align the top horizontal lines (that is, make
them collinear).
2 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Profile.

The Mechanical Desktop analyzes the sketch and displays a message on the
command line:
Solved under constrained sketch requiring 5 dimensions/constraints.
NOTE Throughout this tutorial, the number of constraints your sketch needs
might differ from the example, depending on how precisely you drew the sketch.
You will learn how to modify constraints so that your sketch will solve correctly.
Examine the assumed constraints to help determine which are needed.

3 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Show Constraints. Display all of the constraints.
Your sketch should look like this. However, the constraint numbering may
differ depending on the order in which you drew the geometry.
In the example, all sketch elements have constraints except the arc. The lines
show vertical (V) or horizontal (H) constraints and the two top horizontal
lines show a collinear (C) constraint.
Now that the basic sketch shape is defined, you need to add dimensions to
stabilize its size. Start with its longest lengths to minimize the risk of distorting
the shape as it resizes.

83
For this exercise, add dimensions in the order shown, starting with the
dimension for the bottom line.
To constrain the sketch

1 Choose Part ➤ Add Dimension.
Select first object: Specify the line (1)
Select second object or place dimension: Place the dimension (2)
Undo/Hor/Ver/Align/Par/aNgle/Ord/Diameter/pLace/Enter Dimension value
<current>: Enter 1.48
2 1
2 To center the arc, create a horizontal dimension from the center of the arc to
the left edge of the sketch.
Select first object: Specify the left edge (1)
Select second object or place dimension: Specify the arc (2)
Specify dimension placement: Place the dimension (3)
Undo/Hor/Ver/Align/Par/aNgle/Ord/Diameter/pLace/Dimension value
<current>: Enter .74
3
5
4 2

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3 Create the dimension for the left horizontal line. Continue to follow the
selection points.
Select first object: Specify the left horizontal line (4)
<current>: Enter .28
4 Finish dimensioning the sketch.

Select first object: Specify the arc (1)
Undo/Diameter/Ordinate/Placement point/Enter dimension value <current>:
Enter .68
Select first object: Specify the line on the right (3)
<current>: Enter .20 and press ENTER
1 2
3
4
After you finish dimensioning, the Mechanical Desktop displays the

following message on the command line:
Solved fully constrained sketch.
Select first object: Press ENTER
Now that your profile sketch is fully constrained, create a solid feature.
To extrude the feature

1 Choose View ➤ Model Views ➤ Right Isometric.
You need to specify the type of extrusion operation, how to terminate the
extrusion, and its size.
2 Choose Part ➤ Sketched Features ➤ Extrude.
In the Extrusion Feature dialog box, specify:
Termination: Blind to specify a specific depth
Operation: Base to create the first feature
Size: Enter .66 to specify Distance and choose OK to continue the command

85
An arrow shows the direction the profile will extrude.
Direction Flip/<Accept>: Press ENTER to accept default extrusion direction
The base feature should look like this.
3 Refer to the Desktop Browser, which shows you have added an extrusion feature
to the base feature and that the extrusion was blind, that is, a specific depth.
Click the plus sign beside the extrusion feature to reveal a sketch icon. This
display tells you that the extrusion feature originated with the sketch. If you
complete a feature and then need to change its size or shape, you can edit it
and update the part to reflect the change.
TIP Double-click the plus sign beside the sketch icon to display the original
sketch, or right-click to show the menu and then choose Edit. Modify dimensions,
if needed, and then choose Part ➤ Update to resize the part with changed values.
To modify the base feature

1 In the Browser, highlight Sketch1. Right-click to show the menu and then
choose Edit.
The original sketch is displayed, including its dimensions, so that you can
select the one to edit.

86
2 Choose Part ➤ Change Dimension.
Select dimension to change: Select the 0.20 dimension (1)
New value for dimension <0.2>: Enter .12
Select dimension to change: Press ENTER
Update the model to show the change.

3 Choose the update icon (lightning bolt) at the bottom of the browser.
Your part updates according to the changed dimension and now looks like this.
4 Save your file.
Creating Work Features

Now that you have created the base feature, add the feature that defines the
rough shape of the bracket. Because this and all subsequent features need to be
symmetrical, begin by creating work features to maintain symmetry. After
creating the work features, use them to draw, constrain, and extrude the sketch.
The first work feature is a work axis along the centerline of the arc on the base
feature. This work axis anchors your next sketch to the base feature.

87
To create a work axis
1 Choose Part ➤ Work Features ➤ Work Axis.
Select cylinder, cone, or torus: Specify the cylindrical face (1)
2 Examine the work axis. After you specify the cylindrical face, the work axis
is shown as a line along the center of the arc.
work axis
TIP If the work axis is not shown, the work axis display is probably turned off.
To turn the display on, choose Part ➤ Visibility ➤ Work Axis ➤ On.
The next work feature forms the second axis of symmetry. This plane is parallel
to the front face and intersects both lugs. You specify the work plane position
as parallel to the selected face and offset one half the depth of the part.
work plane

88
To locate the work plane parametrically, specify the offset depth as an equation.
By using an equation, the work plane tracks changes in the bracket width and
always remains centered. To use an equation, you must determine the dimen-
sion parameter before you define the work plane.
To create a work plane

1 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Dimensions as Equations.
Next, redisplay the sketch dimensions.
2 Choose Part ➤ Edit Feature.
Independent array instance/Sketch/surfCut/Toolbody/<select Feature>:
Specify a point anywhere on the part
Parameter d6 is the dimension that specifies the width of the feature. Because
the dimension parameters for your sketch may differ, make note of the param-
eter for your part.
Select object: Press ENTER
Next, create a parametric work plane in the center of the part, parallel to the
front surface, and offset half the part width.
3 Choose Part ➤ Work Features ➤ Work Plane.
In the Work Plane Feature dialog box, specify:
1st Modifier: Planar Parallel
2nd Modifier: Offset
Offset: Enter d6/2 (substitute your parameter value for d6)
Create Sketch Plane: Clear checkbox and choose OK to continue the command
NOTE By default, the Create Sketch Plane option of the Work Plane Feature
dialog box is checked. This setting automatically places the sketch plane (the
location on which the next feature will be sketched or placed) on the work plane.
For this exercise, you specify a sketch plane on a surface of the feature, not the
work plane.

89
Identify the part face to which the work plane is parallel.
worldXy/worldYz/worldZx/Ucs/<Select work plane or planar face>:
Select the curved edge on the front face (1)
Flip/<Accept>: If needed, enter f to offset work plane toward part center

Flip/<Accept>: Press ENTER
The work plane is displayed as a planar rectangle.
work plane
4 Save your file.
Defining a Sketch Plane

Before you can sketch the next feature, you must define a new sketch plane,
an infinite XY plane that locates a 2D sketching surface in 3D space.
When you create sketched features, specify the placement and orientation of
the sketch plane on a 2D plane: a part surface; the XY, YZ, or ZX axes of the
World Coordinate System (WCS); a previously defined work plane; or the XY
plane of the current user coordinate system (UCS).

90
Unlike a work feature, a sketch plane is a temporary object. Only one sketch
plane can exist at a time.
NOTE Except for base features, you must specify a sketch plane before you
can draw a sketch. With base features, the sketch plane is automatically on the
current UCS.
In the next exercise, the bottom face of the base feature is the sketch plane. On
this face, you sketch a profile to extrude through the part. Once placed, the
sketch and subsequent features remain attached to the base feature, regardless
of changes you make later.
To create a sketch plane

1 Choose View ➤ Model ViewPorts ➤ 2 Viewports.
The left viewport is a top view of the part; the right is an isometric view.
2 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Sketch Plane.
Specify the bottom face (1)
Next/<Accept>: Press ENTER if bottom face selected
worldX/worldY/worldZ/<Select work axis or straight edge>:
Specify the bottom face (2)
1, 2
Rotate/Z-flip/<Accept>: Enter z to flip the UCS icon

Rotate/Z-flip/<Accept>: Rotate until X points to the right and press ENTER
The UCS icon in the viewports is updated to reflect changes in the sketch plane
orientation. The sketch plane is always coincident with the UCS XY plane.

91
The left viewport shows a top view.
Creating an Extruded Feature

To define the rough shape of the saddle bracket, you sketch a diamond shape
with filleted corners and add constraints to stabilize its shape. When the
feature is stabilized with geometric constraints, you add dimensions to fully
define its size. Finally, you extrude the sketch, creating a solid feature from
the combined volume of the original base feature and the extruded feature.
To create the sketch

1 Use PLINE to sketch this shape in the left viewport.

92
TIP To help you draw a symmetrical sketch, use the crosshairs of your cursor
to help you align the ends and center points of the arcs.
2 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Profile. You create a profile from the sketch.
Select the sketch you just created. The Mechanical Desktop analyzes the
sketch, redraws it, and reports:
Solved under constrained sketch requiring 10 dimensions/constraints.
NOTE If your sketch needs more than 10 dimensions or constraints to solve

the sketch, you probably need some tangency constraints. Look for sharp discon-
tinuities between the fillets and the lines they join. You make these corrections
when you constrain the sketch to the base feature.
3 Check the Desktop Browser. You can see that the sketch you just created is
represented as Sketch2.
Because you have not yet extruded the profile, it is not yet consumed by a
feature. This status is indicated in the Browser by aligning Sketch2 at the
same level in the hierarchy as ExtrusionBlind1.
Because you added this feature to the base feature, you need to constrain
both its shape and size, and then constrain it to the existing part.
Constraining the Sketch

Begin by adding and changing geometric constraints to create the shape of
the bracket and to define its symmetry about the two centerlines formed by
the work plane and the work axis. Then, you dimension the sketch to main-
tain the proper length and width.
NOTE As you perform this exercise, don’t be concerned that your sketch
appears misshapen compared to the illustrations. Constraining the sketch to the
base feature will correct its shape.

93
To geometrically constrain the sketch
1 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Add Constraints.
TIP If the displayed constraints are too small, choose Part ➤ Preferences ➤
Constraint Size to adjust their size and then redisplay the constraints.
In the Add Constraint dialog box, display constraint symbols and set tangencies.
Constraint Symbols: Display
Constraints: Tangent, then Apply
Add tangent constraints until your part resembles the illustration. Press ENTER
to redisplay the dialog box.
2 Add radial constraints to cause opposing arcs to have equal radii.
Constraints: Radius, Apply, and then select the top and bottom arcs
Radial constraints make the arcs the same size and maintain the symmetry
needed between the sides of the bracket. Fewer dimensions are needed because
one parametric dimension solves two degrees of freedom by specifying the size
of two arcs.
Select first arc or circle: Select the arc at the top of the sketch (1)
Select second arc or circle: Select the arc at the bottom of the sketch (2)

94
1
4
3
2
Now add radial constraints to the left and right arcs to make them equal in size.
Select first arc or circle: Select the arc at the right of the sketch (3)
Select second arc or circle: Select the arc at the left of the sketch (4)
Your display should look like this.
If you sketched in a different order, your arcs and lines may be numbered
differently.
Select first arc or circle: Press ENTER and exit the dialog box
Now, delete any parallel constraints if they exist.

95
3 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Delete Constraints.
Size/All/<select>: Specify the constraint with the P symbol (1)
Size/All/<select>: Specify the constraint with the P symbol (2)
Size/All/<select>: Press ENTER
2
1
These parallel constraints, although valid, conflict with adding dimensions

between arc centers because doing so would overconstrain the sketch. There-
fore, you must remove the parallel constraints to prevent this condition.
4 Save your file.

96
Dimensioning the Sketch
Now that the feature is stabilized with geometric constraints, you can dimen-
sion the distance between the arc centers and specify the arc radius. You need
four dimensions: a radius dimension for each arc, a dimension between the
left and right arc centers, and a dimension between the center of the sketch
and the center of either the left or right arc.
To dimension the sketch

1 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Dimensions as Numbers.
Dimension the radius for the top and right arcs.
2 Choose Part ➤ Add Dimension.
Undo/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter .25
Undo/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter .17
1
2

97
Your sketch should look like this.
3 Create a horizontal dimension between the centers of the left and right arcs.
Select first object: Specify the left arc center (1)
Select second object or place dimension: Specify the right arc center (2)
<current>: Press ENTER
4
5
4 Dimension the distance between the centers of the top and left arcs.
Select first object: Specify the left arc center (1)
Select second object or place dimension: Specify the top arc center (4)
Specify dimension placement: Create a horizontal dimension (5)
<current>: Press ENTER

98
TIP You do not change the values while you create dimensions. While a sketch
is underconstrained, dimension changes can cause it to distort and you may not
be able to recover its correct shape. It is not necessary, but simply safer, to fully
constrain the sketch and then change the dimensions to their desired value.
Creating Constraints Between Features

The sketch geometry is now completely defined. But, to position the sketch
symmetrically on the base feature, the sketch itself must be constrained to the
work plane and the work axis because they serve as centerlines for the part.
You use the Project (PR) constraint to project points onto objects (similar to
the NEA object snap) and the concentric (C) constraint to force two arc or
circle centers to be coincident.
As you determined when you first analyzed the part,
■ The left and right arcs of the sketch form the lugs for the saddle bracket.
The arc centers must lie on the work plane.
■ The top and bottom arcs of the sketch form the base for the boss, in the
exact center of the part. The centers of both top and bottom arcs are coin-
cident with the intersection of the work plane and the work axis.
rough shape rough shape as a part

99
To constrain the sketch to the base feature
1 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Add Constraints. Make the center of the right arc lie
on the work plane.
Constraint Symbols: Clear Display to avoid screen clutter
Constraints: Select Project and then choose Apply to continue the command
Specify point to project (use snap mode): Enter cen of the specified arc center (1)
Select line, circle, arc, ellipse, or spline: Specify the work plane (2)
TIP To make selection of lines and arcs easier, use transparent ZOOM. You can
temporarily interrupt a command in progress to zoom in or out. At the Command
prompt, enter ‘z and select the area of the sketch you want to magnify. You can
continue the active command.
2 Make the center of the left arc lie on the work plane.
Specify point to project (use snap mode): Enter cen of the specified arc center (1)

100
2
3 Position the center of the top arc on the work plane.

Specify point to project (use snap mode): Enter cen of specified arc center (1)

101
4 Position the center of the top arc also on the work axis.
Specify point to project (use snap mode): Enter cen of specified arc center (1)
Select line, circle, arc, ellipse, or spline: Specify the work axis (2)
Specify point to project (use snap mode): Press ENTER
5 Next, make the center of the bottom arc concentric with the center of the top
arc.
In the Add Constraint dialog box, specify:
Constraints: Select Concentric and choose Apply to continue the command
Select first arc, circle, or ellipse: Specify the top arc (1)
Select second arc, circle, or ellipse: Specify the bottom arc (2)
Select first arc, circle, or ellipse: Press ENTER and exit the dialog box

102
The following message is displayed:
Your sketch should now look like this.
6 Save your file.
Editing the Sketch

Now that the sketch is fully constrained, you can modify the sketch dimen-
sions to their desired values. Modify the distances between the center of the
left arc and the center of the sketch and between the centers of the left and
right arcs.
To modify the sketch dimensions

Select dimension to change: Specify the dimension (1)
New value for dimension: <current>: Enter .33
New value for dimension: <current>: Enter 1.16

103
4
1
2
Your part should look like this.
Now you need to create an equation between the overall dimension and the
dimension that centers the feature on the part and maintains symmetry rel-
ative to the work axis. Display dimensions as parameters, and then use them
as variables in the parametric equation.
2 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Dimensions As Parameters.
NOTE Your dimension parameter numbers may differ from those shown in
the illustration.
Make the dimension between the top and left arcs half of the horizontal dis-
tance between the left and right arcs.

104
Enter new value for dimension <.56>:
Enter =dx/2, where x is the dimension that corresponds to d18 in the illustration
Now that the profile sketch is completely constrained and dimensioned, you
can use it to change the shape of the base feature.
Extruding a Profile
To create the rough shape of the saddle bracket, you extrude the profile sketch
up and completely through the base feature. Because the sketch you extrude
changes the shape of the base feature, the intersection shares the volume of
both.
base features resulting intersection

105
1 Choose Part ➤ Sketched Features ➤ Extrude.
In the Extrusion dialog box, accept the default size and specify:
Operation: Intersect
Termination: Through, then choose OK to continue the command
Direction Flip/<Accept>: Flip or press ENTER to extrude up through the part
You create a solid feature by extruding the profile through to the boundary
of the base feature, retaining the common volume.
2 Use REGENALL to regenerate the part.

3 Save your work.
Creating a Revolved Feature

With the rough shape of the saddle bracket defined, you create the next
dependent feature, the boss, a simple cylinder that can be modeled two ways.
■ You can extrude a circle. This option is fastest and probably what you
would select if building this part in production.
■ You can revolve a rectangle about a central axis. This option is used here
to teach you how the revolving method works.

106
boss
When you finish with the exercise, your model will look like this.
To create a revolved feature

1 In the right viewport, make the isometric view active.
Next, create a work axis to serve as the centerline for the revolved feature.
2 Choose Part ➤ Work Features ➤ Work Axis.
Select cylinder, cone, or torus: Specify the face (1)
work plane
work axis
A work axis passes vertically through the part. If the work axis is not displayed,
choose Part ➤ Visibility ➤ Work Axis ➤ On.

107
3 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Sketch Plane.
Because the cylinder is vertical, place the sketch plane on the previously
defined work plane, instead of on a face of the part.
Specify the work plane (1)
Specify the vertical axis (2)
Rotate/Z-flip/<Accept>:
Enter r until the model is upright and then press ENTER
4 Choose Part ➤ Visibility.

In the Desktop Visibility dialog box, select the Part tab and then specify:
Hide: Verify option is selected
Objects: Work Planes, then choose OK
The work plane is no longer visible. In the left viewport, you see a front view
of the part as you look directly at the sketch plane.

108
5 Make the left viewport active and center the view in the left viewport. Use
PLINE to sketch the rectangular profile of the cylinder and create a profile
sketch for the feature.
6 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Profile.

Select the sketch you just drew. After profiling the sketch, it still needs four
dimensions or constraints.
Next, change the dimension display to numbers.
7 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Dimensions as Numbers. Then choose Part ➤ Add
Dimension. Dimension the sketch length and width.
Undo/Hor/Ver/Align/Par/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter .33
2
1
3
4
Constrain the sketch horizontally and vertically.
■ Make the bottom line of the sketch collinear with the bottom of the part.
■ Make the right side of the rectangle collinear with the vertical work axis
so it can serve as the axis of revolution of the feature.

109
Constraints: Collinear, then choose Apply to continue the command
Select first line: Specify the line (1)
Select second line: Specify the vertical work axis (2)
Select second line: Specify the line (4)
Select first line: Press ENTER and exit the dialog box
1
2
3
4
Next, create the cylinder by revolving the sketch about the work axis.
TIP You can revolve a sketch about objects other than a work axis. For example,
you can also revolve a sketch about part edges or about a line in the profile sketch.
9 Choose Part ➤ Sketched Features ➤ Revolve.
In the Revolution Feature dialog box, specify the type, termination, and
angle of revolution. Because the cylinder attaches to the part, define the
revolution to be a full (360 degrees) termination that joins to the part.
Operation: Join
Termination: Full, then choose OK to continue the command
Select revolution axis: Specify the axis (1)
After specifying the type of revolution and the axis of rotation, the cylinder
is created on your model.

110
Creating Symmetrical Features
The final features are the strengthening ribs, located on each side of the
saddle just above the lugs.
strengthening rib
These ribs can be created from separate sketches or simultaneously from a

single sketch.
The easiest way to create identical ribs is from a single sketch. In this case, a
trapezoid shape is sketched across and slightly beyond the edges of the front
of the part. This trapezoid forms the ribs after you constrain and extrude the
sketch.

111
To create the sketch
1 Choose Part ➤ Visibility. On the Part tab, choose Unhide and Work Planes,
then OK.
2 Create a sketch plane on the front of the part.
Specify the work plane (1)
Specify the vertical axis (2)
Rotate/Z-flip/<Accept>:
Enter r until the model in the left viewport is upright and then press ENTER

112
3 In the left viewport, you should see the front of the part.
4 Now that you have specified the sketch plane, hide the work plane until you
need it again.
5 Use PLINE to sketch a trapezoid on the front of the part.
6 Create a profile sketch of the trapezoid.

113
Constraining the Sketch
Six additional dimensions or constraints are needed. Constrain the sketch to
the bottom of the part and then use dimensions to adjust the size and center
the ribs on the part.
To constrain the sketch

1 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Show Constraints. Show all constraints.
Horizontal constraints should show on the top and bottom lines of the sketch.
You will add a collinear constraint to constrain the bottom line of the sketch
to the bottom of the part.
Constraints: Collinear
Constraint Symbols: Choose Apply to continue the command
TIP To show all constraint symbols while you add new ones, select Display
before you choose Apply.

Select second line: Specify the line (2)

114
1
2
The sketch extends so that the bottom of the sketch lies on the bottom of the
part.
Select first line: Press ENTER and exit the dialog box
3 Dimension the distance between the top of the sketch and the top of the
part, and the angle between the ribs.
Select second object or place dimension: Specify the line (2)
Undo/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter 40
1
4 5

115
4 Continue dimensioning the sketch. Dimension the angle between a rib and
the work axis and dimension the bottom line of the sketch.
Select first object: Specify the vertical work axis (1)
Undo/Enter dimension value <current>: Press ENTER
Undo/Hor/Ver/Align/Par/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter 1.13
3
2
1
4 5
6
5 Finish dimensioning the sketch by dimensioning the horizontal distance

between the work axis (center of the part) and the bottom edge of the sketch.
Select first object: Specify the vertical work axis (1)
Undo/Hor/Ver/Align/Par/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter h
Undo/Hor/Ver/Align/Par/Enter Dimension value <current>: Press ENTER
3
1
Change the display of the dimensions from numeric to parametric.

116
6 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Dimensions As Parameters.
To specify symmetry, express the dimensions as equations. Using the work
axis as the centerline of the part, set the distance and angle between the axis
and rib to one half the distance and angle between both ribs.
Select dimension to change:
Specify dimension d22 (1) (your dimension may differ)
New value for dimension <current>:
Enter dx/2, where x is the dimension that corresponds to d20
Select dimension to change:
Specify dimension d23 (2) (your dimension may differ)
New value for dimension <current>:
Enter dy/2, where y is the dimension that corresponds to d21
Extruding the Feature

Next, you extrude the feature to create the ribs. The extrusion will join the
feature to the part. Because the entire feature overlaps the base with the
exception of the ribs, the net effect is that only the ribs appear to be added
to the base feature.

1 Choose Part ➤ Sketched Features ➤ Extrude. Specify the extrusion type.
Operation: Join
Termination: Mid Plane
Distance: Enter .08 and choose OK
2 Refresh the display of the viewport.

117
Your part should now look like this.
3 Save your work.
Refining the Part

In this set of exercises, you complete the part by modifying its features in the
same order as they were created: first the saddle and lugs, then the boss, and
finally the ribs.
To finish the body of the saddle bracket, you need to cut the pipe saddle,
adjust the length of the lugs, and create mounting holes in them. To create
the saddle, you must cut an arc through the front of the saddle body. To cut
the arc, you create a circle and extrude it through the part along the hori-
zontal work axis. For this feature, you use the previously defined sketch plane.
To extrude a circle
1 In the left viewport, use CIRCLE to draw the circle.

118
2 Create a profile sketch of the circle and select the circle you just drew.
The sketch needs three more dimensions or geometric constraints: the location
of the center, the diameter of the circle, and how the circle is constrained to the
part.
Constrain the circle to be concentric with the saddle arcs. The work axis is
the center of the saddle arcs on the front and back of the bracket. By making
the circle concentric with the arcs, you satisfy two constraints, the location
of the center and the relationship of the circle to the part.
3 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Add Constraints. In the Add Constraint dialog box,
specify:
Constraints: Concentric, then choose Apply to continue the command
Select first arc, circle, or ellipse: Specify the circle (1)
Select second arc, circle, or ellipse: Specify the arc (2)
Select first arc, circle, or ellipse: Press ENTER and exit the dialog box
4 Return the dimension display to numeric.

Parameters/Equations/<Numeric>: Enter n
Refining the Part

119
5 Dimension the diameter of the circle.
Select first object: Specify the circle (1)
Undo/Enter Dimension value <current>: Enter 1.12
2
1
The sketch is now fully constrained and looks like this.
6 Extrude the feature, specifying a cut operation with a mid plane termination.
In the Extrusion Feature dialog box, specify:
Operation: Cut
Termination: Mid Plane
Distance: Enter .66 and choose OK
In the isometric view, the arc shape is cut through the saddle bracket.
To complete the body of the bracket, you need a placed feature on each of
the lugs for mounting holes.

120
To create the drilled holes
1 Make the isometric view active.
2 Choose Part ➤ Placed Features ➤ Hole.
In the Hole Feature dialog box, specify:
Operation: Drilled
Termination: Through
Placement: Concentric
Drill Size: Dia: Enter .09 and then choose Apply to continue the command
worldXy/worldYz/worldZx/<Select work plane or planar face>: Specify face (1)
Select concentric edge: Specify edges (1) for the first hole
Select concentric edge: Specify edges (2) for the second hole
Press ENTER, then Exit.

The depth of the holes is equal to the distance from the bottom of the part to
the top radial face of the bracket feet because you created the sketch plane there.
To complete the boss, all that remains is to create a counterbored hole through
the cylinder. You create the hole as a placed feature on the same vertical work
axis as the cylinder.
Keep the right viewport active and specify a counterbored hole drilled
through the part, concentric with the cylinder.
Refining the Part

121
To create the counterbored hole
1 Choose Part ➤ Placed Features ➤ Hole.
In the Hole Feature dialog box specify:
Operation: C’bore
Termination: Through
Placement: Concentric
Drill Size: Dia: Enter .42
C’Bore/Sunk Size: C’ Depth: Enter .125
C’Bore/Sunk Size: C’ Dia:
Enter .48 and then choose Apply to continue the command
Select concentric edge: Specify edge (1) and press ENTER
2 Exit the dialog box.

The ribs currently extend too far onto the lug area, leaving little room for the
mounting holes. To adjust the design, you reduce the width and angle of the
ribs. Make the left viewport active and modify the ribs by changing a few
dimensions according to the equations previously defined.
In this case, use the Browser to select the ribs feature and redisplay its sketch
dimensions. After changing the dimension values, use the Update icon on
the Browser to incorporate the changes.
To edit the feature

1 In the Browser, highlight the Extrusion Midplane icon that corresponds to
the ribs feature.
TIP The ribs are highlighted when you select the correct feature icon.

122
2 Click the plus sign to reveal the sketch icon. Highlight the sketch icon, right-
click, and select Edit.

New value for dimension <40>: Enter 28
New value for dimension <1.13>: Enter 1
Now, update the part to reflect the new dimension values on the sketch.
Refining the Part

123
4 On the bottom border of the Browser, select the Update icon. The rib features
are updated to reflect your dimensional changes.
5 Save your file.

124

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4

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

Analyzing the Rough Sketch

front view top view

Creating the Rough Part

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

Understanding the Desktop Browser

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

To create the profile sketch

2 Choose Part ➤ Sketch ➤ Profile.

Examine the assumed constraints to help determine which are needed.

Creating Base Features

To constrain the sketch

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

4 Finish dimensioning the sketch.

After you finish dimensioning, the Mechanical Desktop displays the

To extrude the feature

Creating Base Features

The base feature should look like this.

To modify the base feature

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

Update the model to show the change.

4 Save your file.

Creating Work Features

Creating Base Features

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

To create a work plane

Creating Base Features

Flip/<Accept>: If needed, enter f to offset work plane toward part center

The work plane is displayed as a planar rectangle.

4 Save your file.

Defining a Sketch Plane

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

To create a sketch plane

Rotate/Z-flip/<Accept>: Enter z to flip the UCS icon

Creating Base Features

Creating an Extruded Feature

To create the sketch

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

NOTE If your sketch needs more than 10 dimensions or constraints to solve

Constraining the Sketch

Creating an Extruded Feature

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

Your display should look like this.

Now, delete any parallel constraints if they exist.

Creating an Extruded Feature

These parallel constraints, although valid, conflict with adding dimensions

4 Save your file.

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

To dimension the sketch

Creating an Extruded Feature

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

Creating Constraints Between Features

rough shape rough shape as a part

Creating an Extruded Feature

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

3 Position the center of the top arc on the work plane.

Creating an Extruded Feature

Chapter 4 Creating Parts

Your sketch should now look like this.

6 Save your file.

Editing the Sketch