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Autodesk Inventor Professional

Tube and Pipe

Getting Started

8
46202-010000-5000A October 10, 2003

Copyright 2003 Autodesk, Inc.


All Rights Reserved This publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form, by any method, for any purpose. AUTODESK, INC. MAKES NO WARRANTY, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THESE MATERIALS AND MAKES SUCH MATERIALS AVAILABLE SOLELY ON AN AS-IS BASIS. IN NO EVENT SHALL AUTODESK, INC. BE LIABLE TO ANYONE FOR SPECIAL, COLLATERAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH OR ARISING OUT OF PURCHASE OR USE OF THESE MATERIALS. THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY TO AUTODESK, INC., REGARDLESS OF THE FORM OF ACTION, SHALL NOT EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE MATERIALS DESCRIBED HEREIN. Autodesk, Inc. reserves the right to revise and improve its products as it sees fit. This publication describes the state of this product at the time of its publication, and may not reflect the product at all times in the future.

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The following are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries: 3D Props, 3D Studio, 3D Studio MAX, 3D Studio VIZ, 3DSurfer, 3ds max, ActiveShapes, ActiveShapes (logo), Actrix, ADI, AEC Authority (logo), AEC-X, Animator Pro, Animator Studio, ATC, AUGI, AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, AutoCAD Map, Autodesk, Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk (logo), Autodesk MapGuide, Autodesk Streamline, Autodesk University (logo), Autodesk View, Autodesk WalkThrough, Autodesk World, AutoLISP, AutoSketch, backdraft, Biped, bringing information down to earth, Buzzsaw, CAD Overlay, Character Studio, Cinepak, Cinepak (logo), Cleaner, Codec Central, Combustion, Design Your World, Design Your World (logo), Discreet, EditDV, Education by Design, gmax, Heidi, HOOPS, Hyperwire, i-drop, Inside Track, IntroDV, Kinetix, MaterialSpec, Mechanical Desktop, NAAUG, ObjectARX, PeopleTracker, Physique, Planix, Powered with Autodesk Technology (logo), ProjectPoint, RadioRay, Reactor, Revit, Softdesk, Texture Universe, The AEC Authority, The Auto Architect, VISION*, Visual, Visual Construction, Visual Drainage, Visual Hydro, Visual Landscape, Visual Roads, Visual Survey, Visual Toolbox, Visual Tugboat, Visual LISP, Volo, WHIP!, and WHIP! (logo). The following are trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries: AutoCAD Learning Assistance, AutoCAD LT Learning Assistance, AutoCAD Simulator, AutoCAD SQL Extension, AutoCAD SQL Interface, Autodesk Envision, Autodesk Map, AutoSnap, AutoTrack, Built with ObjectARX (logo), Burn, Buzzsaw.com, CAiCE, Cinestream, Civil 3D, Cleaner Central, ClearScale, Colour Warper, Content Explorer, Dancing Baby (image), DesignCenter, Design Doctor, Designer's Toolkit, DesignProf, DesignServer, Design Web Format, DWF, DWFwriter, DWG Linking, DXF, Extending the Design Team, GDX Driver, gmax (logo), gmax ready (logo),Heads-up Design, jobnet, lustre, ObjectDBX, onscreen onair online, Plans & Specs, Plasma, PolarSnap, Real-time Roto, Render Queue, Visual Bridge, Visual Syllabus, and Where Design Connects.

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The following are registered trademarks of Autodesk Canada Inc. in the USA and/or Canada, and/or other countries: discreet, fire, flame, flint, flint RT, frost, glass, inferno, MountStone, riot, river, smoke, sparks, stone, stream, vapour, wire. The following are trademarks of Autodesk Canada Inc., in the USA, Canada, and/or other countries: backburner, Multi-Master Editing.

Third Party Trademarks


HTML Help 1995-2002 Microsoft Corp. All rights reserved. Internet Explorer 1995-2001 Microsoft Corp. All rights reserved. Windows NetMeeting 1996-2001 Microsoft Corp. All rights reserved. TList 5 Active X control, Bennet-Tec Information Systems. Typefaces 1992 Bitstream typeface library. All rights reserved. Visual Basic and Visual Basic logo (graphic only) 1987-2001 Microsoft Corp. All rights reserved. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Third Party Copyright Notices ACIS 1989-2002 Spatial Corp. All rights reserved. CDM 1999-2002 D-Cubed Ltd. All rights reserved. COPRA MetalBender 1989-2002 data M Software GmbH. All rights reserved. dBASE is a registered trademark of Ksoft, Inc. DCM-2D 1989-2002 D-Cubed Ltd. All rights reserved. DCM-2D is a trademark of D-Cubed Ltd. Portions of this software licensed from D-Cubed Ltd. MD5C.C - RSA Data Security, Inc., MD5 message-digest algorithm 1991-1992 Objective Grid 2002 Stingray Software, a division of Rogue Wave Software, Inc. All rights reserved. RSA Data Security, Inc. Created 1991. All rights reserved. SafeCast 1996-2002 and FLEXlm 1988-2002 Macrovision Corp. All rights reserved. SMLib 1998-2003 IntegrityWare, Inc., GeomWare, Inc., and Solid Modeling Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved. Typefaces 1996 Payne Loving Trust. All rights reserved. uuencode/uudecode 1983 Regents of the University of California. All rights reserved. Wise for Windows Installer 2002 Wise Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved. Portions of this software are based in part on the work of the Independent JPEG Group. Portions of this software 1981-2003 Microsoft Corp. Portions of this software 1992-2002 ITI. TList ActiveX control licensed from Bennet-Tec Information Systems. This software contains Macromedia Flash Player software by Macromedia, Inc., copyright 1995-2002 Macromedia, Inc. All rights reserved. Macromedia and Flash are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Macromedia, Inc. GOVERNMENT USE Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U. S. Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in FAR 12.212 (Commercial Computer Software-Restricted Rights) and DFAR 227.7202 (Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software), as applicable.

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Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About Autodesk Inventor Professional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Learning Autodesk Inventor Professional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Using Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Backing Up Sample Data Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Setting Up Projects For Exercises. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Reading and Editing Tube and Pipe Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chapter 1

Getting Started With Tube and Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7


About Tube and Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Tube and Pipe Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Tube and Pipe Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Creating Tube and Pipe Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Workflows for Tube and Pipe Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Defining Piping Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Define the Tube and Pipe Runs Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Add Individual Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Using the Tube and Pipe Browser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Using Tube and Pipe Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Use Tube and Pipe Drawing Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Chapter 2

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17


About Styles for Tubes and Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Setting Style Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Setting Style Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Working with Styles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Contents

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Create New Styles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Modify Existing Styles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Change Styles for Existing Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Delete Styles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Change Active Styles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Adding Style Settings To Assembly Templates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Chapter 3

Creating Routes and Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31


About Routes and Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Route Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Understanding Route Node Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Tool Elements for Pipe Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Tool Elements for Tube Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Change the Tool Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Define Angular Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Define 45-degree Angles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Define Bent Tubes at Any Angle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Enter Precise Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Route Cycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Creating Semi Automatic Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Manually Create Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Practicing Your Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Create Pipe Routes with Custom Bends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Populate Routes with Library Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Create a Bent Tube Route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Controlling Displays of Routes and Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Chapter 4

Using the Tube and Pipe Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67


About the Tube and Pipe Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Accessing the Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Using the Library Browser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 View Summaries of Library File Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Configure Library Database Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Publishing Custom Tube & Pipe Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Options in the Publishing Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Preparing Parts with the Publishing Wizard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Placing Tube and Pipe Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Insert Library Components Using I-drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Replace Existing Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 Place Nonlibrary Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92

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Contents

Chapter 5

Editing Routes and Runs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93


About Editing Routes and Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Work in Autodesk Inventor Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Editing Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Add To Finished Runs or Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Insert Route Node Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Dynamically Edit Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Change Manual Route Points to Update Dynamically . . . . . . . . . . 100 Change Associativity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Delete Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Edit Bent Tube Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Editing Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Adjust Fitting Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Turn Off Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Practicing Your Skills. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Contents

vi

Introduction

In This Chapter

Autodesk Inventor Professional software provides a combination of industry-specific tools that extend the capabilities of Autodesk Inventor for completing

Introduction Learning Autodesk Inventor

Professional
Using Help Backing up the sample files Exercise setup

complex machinery and other product designs. This chapter provides basic information to help you get started using Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube and Pipe and the exercises in this manual. Subsequent chapters provide descriptions of the Autodesk Inventor Professional work features and functionality along with sample exercises to help you become productive quickly.

About Autodesk Inventor Professional


Built on the Autodesk Inventor application, Autodesk Inventor Professional includes several different modules. The module included in this manual is Tube & Pipe. Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe provides functionality for creating systems of tubes and pipes in the context of mechanical and product designs. This manual provides basic conceptual information to help get you started and specific exercises that introduce you to the capabilities of Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe.

Learning Autodesk Inventor Professional


It is assumed that you have a working knowledge of the Autodesk Inventor interface and tools. If you do not, use the integrated Design Support System (DSS) for access to online documentation and tutorials, and complete the exercises in the Autodesk Inventor Getting Started manual. At a minimum, it is recommended that you understand how to:

Use the assembly, part modeling, and sketch environments and browsers. Edit a component in place. Create, constrain, and manipulate work points and work features. Set color styles.

It is also recommended that you have a working knowledge of Microsoft Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, or Windows XP, and a working knowledge of concepts for routing tube and pipe through mechanical assembly designs.

Using Help
As you work, you may need additional information about the task you are performing. The Autodesk Inventor Professional Help system provides detailed concepts, procedures, and reference information about every feature in the Autodesk Inventor Professional modules as well as the standard Autodesk Inventor features.

Introduction

To access the Help system, use one of the following methods:


Select Help Topics Autodesk Inventor Professional Help from the standard toolbar, and then click the link to the needed application. Press F1 for Help with the active operation. In any dialog box, click the ? icon. In the graphics window, right-click, and then click How To. The How To topic for the current tool is displayed.

For help on a specific module, scroll to the Autodesk Inventor Professional section at the bottom of the Autodesk Inventor home page, and then click the link to the module of interest.

You can also select options on the main Help home page or click a Help option on the right side of the standard toolbar.

Using Help

For information about new functionality in the most recent Autodesk Inventor Professional release, click the Whats New in Autodesk Inventor Professional link, and then click the subject and feature you want to learn about.

Backing Up Tutorial Data Files


For each exercise in this manual, you use files that contain the example geometry or parts for that task. These files are included in the Tutorial Files directory for each application. For Tube & Pipe the files are located in the Tube & Pipe/Tutorial Files folder where you installed Autodesk Inventor Professional. Before you begin the exercises, back up the files so the originals are always available. You can revert to these files if you make any mistakes during the exercises, or if you would like to repeat an exercise. To back up the tutorial files 1 In the folder where Autodesk Inventor Professional is installed, go to the Tube & Pipe directory and create a new folder called Exercise_Backup. The default installation location is Program Files Autodesk Inventor Professional (version). 2 Open Tube & Pipe Tutorial Files, and copy the exercise data into your new folder. Now you can use the files in the Tutorial Files folders as you work through the exercises in this book. Keep any files you create for an exercise in the Tutorial Files directory to avoid the possibility of file resolution problems.

Setting Up Projects For Exercises


For the exercises, create a new project or use the default project and set the workspace to the Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe Tutorial Files folder where you installed Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe. The default installation location is Program Files Autodesk Inventor Professional (version) Tube & Pipe Tutorial Files.

Introduction

Reading and Editing Tube and Pipe Data


If Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe is not installed on the system viewing the tube and pipe data, the Tube & Pipe runs subassembly and all that it contains is read-only. This means that the outline of the tube and pipe component is visible through Autodesk Inventor, but the component cannot be edited, and new tube and pipe components cannot be added.

Reading and Editing Tube and Pipe Data

Getting Started With Tube and Pipe

In This Chapter

Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe is an addin to the Autodesk Inventor assembly environment. It provides the capability to create complete tube and pipe systems in mechanical assembly designs. This chapter provides basic information about the tube and pipe environment, how to get started with a tube and pipe assembly, and how to use tube and pipe data.

Introduction Tube and pipe environment General workflow Creating tube and pipe

assemblies
Tube and pipe browser Use tube and pipe data

About Tube and Pipe


Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube and Pipe includes features for setting tube and pipe styles, adding runs and routes to mechanical assemblies or product designs, populating selected routes with library components, and adding optional fittings. When a tube and pipe run is complete, the tube and pipe information can be represented in drawings and presentations.

Tube and Pipe Features


With the tube and pipe tools you can:

Create or open tube and pipe assembly files. Define tube and pipe styles that conform to industry standards. Automatically or manually generate bent tube or rigid pipe routes with fittings. Add additional route node points as you create or edit a route. Populate selected routes with library components. Modify both routes and runs as design needs change. Access and use the tube and pipe library to place fittings in tube and pipe assemblies. Prepare custom fittings for use in a tube and pipe assembly, and then add them to the tube and pipe library. Use the browser to organize and edit tube and pipe runs, and to change visibility for routes, runs, fittings, and components.

Tube and Pipe Environment


Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube and Pipe provides the familiar Autodesk Inventor assembly environment in addition to design tools for adding tube and pipe routes and runs. When you open an assembly in Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube and Pipe a tool appears on the Assembly panel bar for adding piping runs to your design. Once you add your first run, the tools specific to creating tube and pipe runs in an assembly are displayed.

Chapter 1

Getting Started with Tube and Pipe

The following illustration shows the application window that is displayed once a piping run is added to a new assembly file. Tools specific to Tube and Pipe are added to the standard toolbar, and the tube and pipe browser and panel bar are enabled.

Main menu Tube & Pipe panel bar

Standard toolbar

Browser toolbar Tube & Pipe library

tube & pipe browser

The features added by the Tube and Pipe environment include: Tube & Pipe panel bar Browser toolbar Tube & pipe browser The tool set for the tube and pipe run environment. Use the panel bar title to switch between the Tube & Pipe and Assembly panel bars. Enables switching between the Tube & Pipe browser and the tube and pipe library. Contains the content of the tube and pipe assembly in a hierarchy, along with the main Tube & Pipe Runs subassembly. The main run acts as a container for all routes and runs and the components created or placed in the routed system. Accessed through the browser toolbar, this library contains libraries of industry-standard fittings that can be inserted into a run. Custom fittings can be added to the library as needed. The library is available in both the run and route environments.

Tube & Pipe Library

About Tube and Pipe

Route panel bar

(Not displayed.) The tool set when the tube and pipe route environment is active. There are several ways to enter the route environment, such as using the Route Environment tool on the standard toolbar. Use Return to get back to the tube and pipe run environment. Contains several tools specific to the Tube and Pipe environment in addition to the standard Autodesk Inventor tools. The tools include the Route Environment tool, the Display Settings tools, and the Active Styles list.

Standard toolbar

Creating Tube and Pipe Assemblies


The first step in creating a routed system is to open an assembly file. The assembly file can be empty or contain an assembly model. You can then create the first pipe run and begin adding tubes and pipes to your design.

Workflows for Tube and Pipe Assemblies


The following are the basic steps to create a typical run in a tube and pipe assembly. To create a typical run 1 Open an Autodesk Inventor assembly file. 2 Create the tube and pipe run subassembly. 3 Select the Styles tool to set style options, and then select a style to use as the default. 4 Create a new route (start point, optional route node points, and endpoint) using displayed tools to guide your selections. 5 Adjust the route to design changes. 6 Populate the selected route with library components. 7 Insert additional fittings into the tube and pipe assembly or directly onto a run as needed. 8 Make final adjustments to the run. Change the active style or add, remove, reposition, and replace fittings, route node points, and segments as needed. 9 Add additional runs and routes as needed. 10 Document the tube and pipe run subassembly in a drawing or presentation.

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Chapter 1

Getting Started with Tube and Pipe

Defining Piping Runs


When an assembly file is first opened in Autodesk Inventor Professional, the assembly environment is displayed and you can begin adding pipe runs. For the first pipe run added, the system creates the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly along with an individual run. The Tube & Pipe Runs assembly is a container for all pipe runs added to the assembly.

Define the Tube & Pipe Runs Assembly


To create the tube and pipe run assembly, you click the Create Pipe Run tool on the Assembly panel bar.

Create Pipe Run tool

The Tube & Pipe Runs assembly is named automatically. It can be renamed through the Design Assistant if desired. In the Create Tube & Pipe Run dialog box that appears you provide a unique name and location for the individual run contained in the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly. By default, the file is named pirun.1234567890123.iam (where 1234567890123 is an incremental 13-digit number), and is saved to the location of the open assembly file.

The Tube & Pipe Runs assembly is added to the browser along with other placed components and is arranged in the order it was added to the assembly. The tube and pipe run environment and the individual run are activated.

Defining Piping Runs

11

Add Individual Runs


Each time you use the Create Pipe Run tool once the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly is created, an individual run is added to this container run. Individual runs are arranged in the order they are added to the tube and pipe assembly. You can name and locate each run file as it is added. In the following exercise, you open an existing assembly and prepare to add tubing and piping in the context of that assembly. You also become familiar with the components included in the tube and pipe design environment including the Tube & Pipe run panel bar, the browser, and the tube and pipe library. To create a tube and pipe assembly 1 Using the default project, select File Open from the main menu. 2 In the Open dialog box, navigate to Tube & Pipe Tutorial Files where you installed Autodesk Inventor Professional, and select the file named AirSystemAssy.iam. The default location is Program Files Autodesk Inventor Professional <version> Tube & Pipe Tutorial Files. The assembly is displayed as shown.

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Chapter 1

Getting Started with Tube and Pipe

3 Click the Create Pipe Run tool in the Assembly panel bar. 4 In the Create Tube & Pipe Run dialog box, enter the name for the first run: New File Name: Air_System1 New File Location: Enter a path, or browse to \Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor Professional 7\Tube & Pipe\Tutorial Files 5 Click OK. The tube and pipe run is automatically named and saved to the location of the open assembly. The run is saved using the name and location indicated in the dialog box. The system adds the tube and pipe run subassembly to the browser and activates the tools in the Tube & Pipe run panel bar, as shown in the following illustration.

Styles New

Populate Place Route Route Fitting

6 Locate the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly in the browser hierarchy. The individual run is automatically added and activated so that you can begin defining a route and adding components.

Tube & Pipe Runs assembly individual run

7 In the browser panel bar, click the arrow beside Model to display the tube and pipe library menu option.

Defining Piping Runs

13

Examine the standard toolbar to see the Route Environment tool, Display Settings for route preview and runs, and the Active Styles list.

Select File Save to save the file.

Using the Tube and Pipe Browser


All tube and pipe components added to an assembly file are contained in the main runs subassembly. The components include individual runs and their associated routes, fittings, segments, and route node work points. Each run contains an Origin folder, the route that defines the runs path through the assembly, and any segments or fittings that are added.

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Chapter 1

Getting Started with Tube and Pipe

Routes contain the designated route node work points. The following illustration shows a browser with possible tube and pipe components displayed.

main runs assembly individual run subassembly pipe route

route nodes fittings segments

Using Tube and Pipe Data


Completed tube and pipe assemblies can be placed in add-on applications such as weldment assemblies or sheet metal assemblies, and can be used like any other native Autodesk Inventor assembly. To document the tube and pipe assembly in a drawing or presentation, you must have already populated your routes and displayed them as rendered. Tube and pipe information is treated like other parts and subassemblies and can be detailed using normal drawing manager methods and tools. In assembly presentations, runs can be manually exploded like any subassembly within a regular assembly. Presentations do not support the automatic explosion of pipe segments, fittings, and components.

Using Tube and Pipe Data

15

Use Tube and Pipe Drawing Templates


Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe also provides a set of drawing templates that contain settings specific to tube and pipe. These templates are set to:

Create a parts list that collects all library components with the same part number, and then display the component as a single line item with the length summed. Components with unique part numbers are displayed on separate rows in the parts list. Display the summed row for the selected tubing component as a single item number in drawing balloons. Annotate individual runs with style property data.

The templates appear on the Professional tab of the File Open dialog box. These templates can be used when you document tube and pipe assemblies in drawings. You can also update your existing templates to include this information. Refer to the Autodesk Inventor Professional Help for details about setting these items manually.

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Chapter 1

Getting Started with Tube and Pipe

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes

In This Chapter

Tube and pipe styles describe the characteristics for tube and pipe routes and runs. These styles are key to controlling the design of the routed system as it evolves from prototype to manufacturing. This chapter tells about the available options, how to set them, how to modify and change them, and how to add them to a template.

Introduction Style options Setting styles Modifying styles Changing the active style Deleting styles Adding styles to a template

17

About Styles for Tubes and Pipe


Styles affect almost every aspect of route design from route creation and editing, to populating the route. They are used to ensure consistent application of tube and pipe components. For example, segments and fittings in a piping run often have certain requirements for size, route direction, and materials. With styles, you can set these requirements once, and they are applied as you design. When defining a style, you are specifying the pipe and fitting components from the content library that will make up the pipe run and establishing rules to be followed during routing. There are several default styles included with Autodesk Inventor Professional. You can use one of these styles or create your own style based on one of them. You can also make changes to existing styles or select a different style to use as the default.

NOTE It is possible to define a style with which you are unable to create a
route, such as if you select fittings that do not have compatible end treatments. While the Styles tool allows styles to be defined in this way, routes cannot be created using such a style.

Setting Style Parameters


Before you begin working with routes and runs, examine the default style settings, and then set the styles you need. To set styles, activate the Tube & Pipe run environment, click the Styles tool, and then click each tab on the Styles dialog box to review and modify the settings. Styles can be accessed from the Tube & Pipe panel bar, the Assembly panel bar, and in the graphics window using the right-click context menu. Active styles are also available from a list on the standard toolbar.

Styles tool

If the tube and pipe runs assembly is active when you click the Styles tool, the Styles dialog box displays settings for the active style definition. If a single run is active when you click the Styles tool, the Styles dialog box reflects style settings for the active run.

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Chapter 2

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes

The following image shows the Styles dialog box with the Tubing with Bends style selected.

The following tabs and tools are available on the Styles dialog box: General Sets general options for how routes and runs are created including the run type, industry standard, material, and allowed route directions. Specifies the diameter for route segments. Determines the length of pipe segments in the routed system and the default bend radius for Tubing with Bend styles. Sets the color for rendered, or solid route preview and components. Sets the default fittings (pipe, couplings, and elbows) to use when populating a route. Creates a custom style using the selected style as a base. Saves any changes to the selected style. Any routes or runs using the selected style are updated with these changes. Clicking Apply performs the same action. Removes the selected style from the list.

Created Segment Rules

Display Fittings New button Save button

Delete button

Setting Style Parameters

19

Setting Style Options


Each item in a tube and pipe system has parameters that describe the routes and runs you define. The dialog box reflects the settings for the active style. Once you set the styles, they are automatically applied to new routes and runs as you design and make modifications. The style editor can be thought of as a filter. Certain selections drive not only the available nominal diameter values, but also the fittings from which you can choose. The styles dialog box is divided into five tabs. The parameters on each tab are described in this section. General On the General tab you set the general characteristics of how routes and runs are created. There are several options. Run Type Sets the type of run to create. Available run types include Rigid Pipe with Fittings and Tubing with Bends. Rigid Pipe with Fittings creates a series of straight pipe segments connected with specified fittings. Tubing with Bends creates a single run with bends instead of fittings at the directional change points. An example is shown in the following illustration.

rigid pipe with fittings

tubing with bends

Pipe and Fittings Sets the material and industry standard for pipe runs and fittings. The standards and materials of published parts are listed in these pulldown menus when the parts are published. The materials listed represent the materials used in the content library. If a part is published using a new user-defined standard, that standard is also listed. Use the lists to make your selections. When an asterisk is displayed, the system filters the content for that setting. For example, the system allows all (*/any) materials to appear in the results.

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Chapter 2

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes

Route Direction Sets the directions allowed for the directional change points (elbows or bends) on a route. For Rigid Pipe with Fittings styles, settings include 90 and 45 degree directions. By default, directions of 90 degrees are always included for rigid styles. When both options are selected, you can select 45 or 90 degree angles when manually placing nodes. For Tubing with Bends styles a user-defined option is available in addition to directions of 90 and 45 degrees. By default, all direction options are included for bent tube styles. When all options are selected, you can create bends at any angle while manually placing node points. Created Segments The Created Segments tab sets the diameter to use for segments in routes and runs. The Nominal type sets the nominal diameter values and schedule to use. The available nominal diameters depend on the criteria selected on the general tab. For example, if the standard is ASME B16.11, only the nominal diameters that are part of that library are listed. If no schedule is available, you can use the inside diameter value. The OD/ID type sets the outside and inside diameters for the segments. When defining a part with a given nominal diameter, the nominal diameter must exist as a row in the published iPart table. The schedules in the list are the available schedules for the selected nominal diameter, material, and specification. Rules The Rules tab sets parameters that specify the size range for creating route segments between identified route points. It includes the minimum and maximum values, as well as the increment round-off value. For bent tube runs, you can set the default bend radius for the bends. Display This section sets the parameters that control the displayed color when Rendered Display is selected for routes. It also controls the color in which all tube and pipe components are displayed.

Setting Style Options

21

Fittings On this tab you set the default pipe, coupling, and elbow components to use for the routes and runs you create. You can browse to the type of fitting needed, and then select the name of the actual part to use. The parts available for selection are filtered from the tube and pipe library based on the style criteria set on previous tabs. Couplings are not required for flanged or welded styles.

Style list The style list is available from every tab of the Styles dialog box. It displays the active style or the style used by the active route or run, and provides access to the list of all defined styles. You can use this list to create new styles, to modify existing styles, to change the active style, and to apply a new style to an active route. All new routes and runs are created using the displayed active style.
new delete save

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Chapter 2

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes

Working with Styles


Although it is best to set styles before creating routes or placing fittings, styles can be created at any time and style changes can be applied to new and existing routes throughout the design process. With styles you can:

Set style defaults for all new routes and runs you create. Change the active style for the tube and pipe assembly. Change the style for the active route or run. Modify settings for all routes and runs that use an assigned style.

Create New Styles


To create a style, the fittings for the new style must first exist in the tube and pipe library. Fittings and other components are not created for you automatically. Before creating a new style, publish the necessary fittings to the custom library. Once the fittings are published, define the new style to match the properties of the published fittings. See Publishing Custom Tube & Pipe Components on page 73 for instructions for adding fittings to the tube and pipe library. To create a new style, select an existing style on which to base the new one, set the style settings you want, click the New button, and then provide a unique name. Once you create the new style, it becomes the active style.

Rigid Pipe with Fittings Styles


In this exercise, you create two new Rigid Pipe with Fittings type styles using existing styles as the base. When you switch between styles or create new styles, you are prompted whether or not to save edits. Click Yes to save edits to the current style before proceeding. Click No to proceed without saving changes to the current style.

NOTE When switching from a Tubing with Bends style to a Rigid Pipe with
Fittings style, the results may be unpredictable.

Working with Styles

23

To create Rigid Pipe with Fittings type styles 1 Open the AirSystemAssy.iam file, if it is not already open, and then verify that Pipe Run:1 is active. 2 Click the Styles tool on the Tube & Pipe panel bar. 3 On the Style list, select ASTM A53/A53M - ASME B16.11 Welded Steel Pipe as the basis for the new style. 4 Click the New button. 5 For the new style name, enter the following at the prompt: Welded Steel Pipe - ASTM A53/A53M - ASME B16.11 (1/8 ND) Click OK. 6 Set the parameters you need. For this exercise, click the Created Segments tab, and then set the nominal diameter to 1/8 in. Click the arrow to select from the list. 7 Click the Save button to save your changes, and begin defining your second style. The Welded Steel Pipe - ASTM A53/A53M - ASME B16.11 (1/8 ND) style is displayed in the list as the new default. If a route is active when Save is used, the changes are applied to the route. 8 Specify the following to define the second style: Base: Select ISO 7598/ISO 49 Threaded Steel Pipe with Iron Fittings Nominal Diameter: Select 1/2 Deselect 45 degrees, click the New button, and then answer No when asked to Save Edits?

NOTE Saving edits at this point would save the changes to the ISO 7598/ISO
49 style rather than creating a new style. 9 In the New Style Name dialog box, enter the following name: Threaded Steel Pipe with Iron Fittings (1/2 ND, 90 Only). Click OK. 10 Click OK to save your changes.

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Chapter 2

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes

Tubing with Bends Style


In this exercise, you create a new Tubing with Bends type style. To create a Tubing with Bends type style 1 On the Style list, select ASTM B 88-ASME B16.22 Soldered Copper Tubing as the basis for the new style. 2 Click the New button. 3 For the new style name, enter the following at the prompt: Soldered Copper Tube (1/2 ND, .5 Bend) Click OK. 4 Click Yes, when prompted to Set Min Length to Zero? Setting minimum segment length to zero allows bends of 180 degrees or more. 5 Set the parameters you need. For this example, change the following settings: Created Segment tab: Nominal Diameter: 1/2 in. Rules tab: Default bend radius: Enter 0.500 Display tab: Solid Route Preview Color: Click the arrow, and then select red from the color palette. 6 Click the Save button to save your changes. 7 On the Standard toolbar, click the arrow beside the Styles tool to verify that Soldered Copper Tube (1/2 ND, .5 Bend) is selected in the list.

Modify Existing Styles


You can modify any of the available style definitions including those that are provided with the system. In this exercise, you modify the Soldered Copper Tube (1/2 ND, .5 Bend) style you created by changing the color back to one that looks more like copper.

Working with Styles

25

To modify style definitions 1 With the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly active, click the Styles tool on the Assembly panel bar. 2 Make sure the Soldered Copper Tube (1/2 ND, .5 Bend) style is selected in the list. 3 On the Display tab under Solid Route Preview color, select the gold color (row 1, column 2) from the palette. 4 Click the Save button, and then close the Styles dialog box. The change is saved with the style. The modified style is the new active style for any routes and runs that are created. The style change is also applied to any route or run currently using that style.

NOTE Before you make changes to a system style, make a copy and give it a
new name. For example, to modify a system style, select the style, click the New button, provide a name, and then click OK. Then select the system style from the list and make the modifications.

Change Styles for Existing Runs


Design needs change as the routed system evolves. With styles, you can make subtle or dramatic changes quickly and efficiently. For example, it is common to create routed systems using less expensive manufacturing methods at the early design stages, then switch to the actual, more expensive manufacturing methods at the end. When switching between Route Types, the system may prompt you to locate a fitting if it cannot find an equivalent one. The workflow for changing the style of an existing run is as follows: To change the style of an existing run 1 Open the required tube and pipe assembly file. 2 In the browser, activate the run with the style you want to change. 3 In the graphics window, click the arrow next to the Active Styles list, and then select a new style. 4 Click OK. The active route will use the new style. The model is updated to conform to the new style. The changes are also reflected in the browser.

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Chapter 2

Setting Styles for Tubes and Pipes

Delete Styles
Styles you no longer use can be removed from the Style list. If a style is used by any route or run, it cannot be deleted. To delete a style 1 With the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly active, right-click in the graphics window, and then select Styles from the context menu. 2 In the Styles dialog box, select the style to remove from the list. 3 Click the Delete button. The style is removed. 4 Click the arrow beside the Style list to verify that the style was removed. 5 Click OK to close the dialog box.

Change Active Styles


Routes in the same system often have different uses and different requirements. To accommodate these changes, you can select a new style with the needed settings for each different route. For the first routes you create in this exercise, use the Welded Steel Pipe - ASTM A53/A53M - ASME B16.11 (1/8 ND) style. To change the active style 1 Double-click the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly to activate it. 2 Verify that no routes or runs are active, and then click the Styles tool on the Assembly panel bar, or right-click in the graphics window and select Styles from the context menu. 3 Click the arrow beside the Styles list, and then select the Welded Steel Pipe ASTM A53/A53M - ASME B16.11 (1/8 ND) style from the list. 4 Click OK to close the dialog box. 5 To verify that the Welded Steel Pipe - ASTM A53/A53M - ASME B16.11 (1/8 ND) style is selected, click the arrow beside Active Style on the standard toolbar to view the list. All new routes and runs created will use this style.

Working with Styles

27

Adding Style Settings To Assembly Templates


When you customize a set of tube and pipe styles, they are saved in the main piping runs assembly that you name and locate when you first start your tube and pipe assembly. To reuse them in future tube and pipe assemblies, add this file to a blank assembly to be used as a template. Once added to the template your styles can be used in other tube and pipe assemblies. To add custom styles to an assembly template 1 Open and Save a new, empty assembly file. 2 On the Assembly panel bar, select the Create Pipe Run tool. 3 Using the Create Tube and Pipe Runs dialog box, save the piruns.1234567891012.iam file using the defaults. The main tube and pipe runs assembly is automatically named and located, and Pipe Run:1 is activated.

NOTE The numbers (1234567891012) in the file name represent a unique 13digit number that is given to each new run subassembly by default. 4 Activate the main Tube & Pipe Runs assembly. 5 In the browser, right-click Pipe Run:1, and then select Delete from the context menu. 6 On the Tube & Pipe panel bar, select the Styles tool. 7 Create new styles and modify existing styles as required, and then click OK to save the changes and exit the dialog box. 8 Right-click, and then select Finish Edit, or click Return on the Standard toolbar to activate the top-level assembly. 9 In the browser, right-click the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly, and then select Properties. 10 In the Properties dialog box, Occurrence tab, deselect the Adaptive. 11 While in the Properties dialog box, note the name and location of the assembly file listed on the General tab, and then close the Properties dialog box. 12 Save the top-level assembly file and everything it contains. 13 Close Autodesk Inventor Professional. 14 Using Microsoft Windows or an alternate method, copy the assembly file noted in Step 11.

28

15 Navigate to the Tube & Pipe Templates directory where you installed Autodesk Inventor Professional. The default installation location is Program Files Autodesk Autodesk Inventor Professional (version) Tube & Pipe Templates. This directory contains the piping runs.iam file. 16 Make a backup of piping runs.iam. For example, rename the file to: backup piping runs.iam. 17 Replace the piping runs.iam file with the copied file by pasting the copied file into the Tube & Pipe Templates directory, and then renaming the copied file (it will have a name like piping runs.1234567891012.iam) to piping runs.iam. You can use this assembly file as a template when you create other assemblies that include tubing and piping.

Adding Style Settings To Assembly Templates

29

30

Creating Routes and Runs

In This Chapter

Routes are defined by selected points (nodes). Styles contain the rules for the lengths of straight segments and the types of bends or elbows. Couplers connect each straight section and elbows (or bends) connect each directional change point. A populated route, or run, is created based on the style and the defined route. In this chapter, you learn about the methods and tools for creating automatic and semi-automatic routes, manually adding route node points, and populating a route with library components to complete the run.

Routes and runs Route basics Understanding route node

points
Using the 3D Orthogonal Route

tool
Create a semi-automatic route Create a manual route

31

About Routes and Runs


A route is the path that determines the shape of the run and the intelligent placement of library components for the run along that path. The run contains all the components for a finished route. You create a route by connecting two or more points and directing the route through circular openings and around existing geometry in its path. Tools are provided as you select points, to highlight valid points and to guide your selections. To provide more control over route direction, you can also select intermediate route node points. As you make your selections the system automatically generates the needed segments and route node points. If more than one routing solution exists based on the points selected, you can cycle through the solutions and select the one that best fits your needs. Once you finish selecting points, the system generates the route, placing fittings at each route point. Once you have a route, you can populate it with components from the tube and pipe library to complete the run. The run follows set styles and the path defined by the route. Fittings from the supplied Tube & Pipe libraries can be dropped onto completed runs.

Route Basics
To start creating routes, you must activate an individual run subassembly in place, and then enter the Route environment. To enter the Route environment, use the New Route tool on the Tube & Pipe run panel bar or the Enter route environment tool on the standard toolbar.

New Route tool

In Route mode the Route panel bar is displayed and you can begin creating a path for your route. Click the Route tool to add new routes or continue existing ones.

Route

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Chapter 3

Creating Routes and Runs

Create a route by selecting two or more points. Valid route start points include:

Center points on any circular feature such as a face, a hole, and cylindrical cuts, including circular geometry on piping components from the tube and pipe library. Part or assembly work points and vertices.

As you select points for a route, Autodesk Inventor Professional gives you visual feedback about what is happening on the screen and text messages in the status bar. The messages change based on what is selected and the action you are performing. The following image shows the message when you click the New Route tool.

When deciding on the design of your routed system:


Identify the circular geometry (or work points) that are used as the start and endpoints. Analyze where directional change points are needed to route through or around existing geometry. Decide which points must adapt to changes in the model. Create in-line work features, such as a work point at the intersection of work planes, to guide the route path.

You can define your routes as close to the desired results as possible, and then adjust later, or you can develop them using precise distances and angles as you go. To speed creation and plan for dynamic editing and updating, allow the system to automatically create route node points whenever possible. Define route node points manually where it is critical for a route to adapt to changes in the assembly or to control the direction of the route around existing assembly geometry. If using in-line work features, consider simplifying the route display by selecting the Auto-hide in-line features option on the Tools Application Options Part tab. In-line work features are hidden as soon as they are consumed by a feature. The auto-hide option is enabled by default.

Route Basics

33

Understanding Route Node Points


When a route is automatically generated, the system creates any needed route node points between the selected model geometry. You can also manually define route points. Manually defined route points are defined interactively by selecting a point in the graphics window, or precisely by typing in an exact value. Once a route is finished, route node points can be added, repositioned, or deleted. System generated route points are not fixed and can automatically update to changes made to the route during editing. By default, the points you select are fixed, and will not move during dynamic edits, deletions, or other adjustments to the route. When you select circular geometry or work points, the route remains associative to these points. If the model geometry changes, the route automatically updates. To better control the direction of a route, you can select any number of route node points between the specified start and end points. Valid selections for intermediate route node points include:

All valid start point types. Vertex points on any assembly component. Points inferred from an edge, face, work axis, or work plane. Inferred points are referenced, they are not associated to the original locating geometry. Points highlighted with a green dot on the 3D Orthogonal Route tool.

Valid point selections are controlled by styles, connection data, and the action being performed.

Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool


The 3D Orthogonal route tool appears as soon as you begin selecting route points in the graphics window. It contains several elements that guide selection of valid route node points. When the 3D Orthogonal Route tool first appears, only the line extender is displayed. With the line extender you can select points that are offset from a selected edge. Once you select a point along the line, other elements of the 3D Orthogonal Route tool appear at the selected point.

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Chapter 3

Creating Routes and Runs

The elements displayed are dependent on what is selected, the connection geometry, and set styles. For example, the 3D Orthogonal Route tool includes different elements depending on whether you are creating a pipe route with fittings or a tube route with bends. Some elements are common to both styles. Valid points, those that will make a connection of the allowable length, are highlighted with a green dot as you move the cursor over the lines in the tool. Points that do not fall within the range set by the style criteria are displayed as a yellow x. The size of the tool can be increased if the line is not long enough.

Tool Elements for Pipe Routing


When a Rigid Pipe with Fittings type style is active and all elements are displayed on the 3D Orthogonal Route tool, you can:

Rotate freely around the local axis. Change direction in 90 or 45 degree increments. Create points from referenced geometry. Select points offset from selected edges.

direction axes (red, green, and blue lines

line extender

45-degree angle control

rotation arrows

Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool

35

The different elements in the 3D Orthogonal Route tool for rigid pipes with fittings include: Line extender Direction axes Rotation arrows 45 degree angle control Shows valid direction for the next route point and enables creation of points offset from the selected edge. Changes direction in 90-degree increments. Click the line to add a node in that direction. Shows the rotation possibilities for the next route point and enables unrestricted rotation around the displayed axis. Changes direction in 45-degree increments. This is available only when 45-degree route direction is set for the active style.

Tool Elements for Tube Routing


When a Tubing with Bends type style is active, elements are displayed that are specific to creating bent tube runs. In addition to the ability to rotate freely around the local axis, create points from referenced geometry, and select points offset from selected edges, you can also:

Change direction at any angle between 0 and 360 degrees. Make precise adjustments to the included angle. Change the bend radius.

radius handles rotation handles

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Chapter 3

Creating Routes and Runs

When a Tubing with Bends type style is active the line extender, direction axes, and rotation arrows display along with the elements specific to creating bent tubes: Radius Handles Rotation Handles Changes the radius for bent tubes. Adjusts the included angle.

Change the Tool Display


Both tool color and size can be changed as needed. Tool size is changed using the plus (+) or minus (-) keys on the keypad. Use plus (+) to increase the size, and minus (-) to reduce it. To adjust the colors in which the direction axes, line extender, or tooltip are displayed, set the colors as you would other color format styles. To set colors in the display of the 3D Orthogonal Route tool 1 Open a tube or pipe assembly file containing at least one route. 2 On the Standard menu, select Format Colors. 3 In the Colors dialog box, select a Route_UI_Tool_toolname color style from the list. 4 Set the appropriate color attributes. 5 Click Apply to apply color changes immediately. Otherwise, colors become effective when you close the dialog box.

Define Angular Positions


The rotation arrows and direction axes can be displayed when defining routes and placing fittings, and then again when editing and repositioning routes and fittings. With the Rotation Arrows and Direction Axes displayed, you can view the rotation possibilities for the current selection. To rotate freely around the axis, click and drag the Rotation Arrow as needed. To snap the rotation in 90-degree increments, click on a line of the Direction Axis.

Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool

37

The tool snaps to all four quadrant border angles as you rotate. The tool also snaps to edge or face geometry. In this case, a dashed line and preview point show how the snap is applied. Click and drag a rotation arrow.

Release the cursor in the new location.

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Define 45-degree Angles


When the 45-degree route direction is set in the active style, the Angle Control can be displayed in the 3D Orthogonal Route tool. When it is displayed, you can rotate the route position in 45-degree increments. To use the Angle Control, click the arrow pointing in the angular position you need. When you are satisfied with the position, select a point on the line to create a segment at the new angular position. Click an arrow to direct the path to the angle you want.

angle control

The route path changes to the new angular position. If you select the wrong direction, click the single arrow displayed on the selected axis to revert to the previous angular position.

new position

Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool

39

Define Bent Tubes at Any Angle


When a tubing with bends style is active, the Rotation Handles are displayed on the 3D Orthogonal Route tool. When they are displayed you can create a bend at any angle. To use the Rotation Handles click the arrow pointing in the angular position you need, and drag to the required position. The tool snaps in regular increments based on the 3D Angle Snap value. This value is set on the Tools Document Settings, Modeling tab.

rotation handles

When you are satisfied with the new position, select a point on the line to create a segment at the new location. The route path changes to the new angular position. Using the Rotation Handles, you can also create a series of bends to achieve a compound bend.

new position at 60 degrees

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Chapter 3

Creating Routes and Runs

Use Point Snap to Define Points


When the 3D Orthogonal Route tool is active and Point Snap is checked in the context menu, you can define points by snapping to other model geometry. Pause your cursor over faces, edges, or work points and a dashed line and preview point are displayed at the intersection of the line and the plane of the highlighted edge or face. The dashed line represents the snap point in relation to the highlighted geometry. When the preview point is displayed at the needed location, click the selected geometry and the point is created as shown.

NOTE If the lines of the tool are not long enough for them to intersect with
the inferring geometry, click + (plus) on the keypad to enlarge the tool. Use (minus) to reduce the size. A dashed line shows the point snapped from the face.

Click the face to create the route point at the intersection with the tool.

Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool

41

Enter Precise Values


Although all route points can be selected interactively, sometimes exact values are needed to create the required route. You can enter precise values for both angles and distances. The values entered are the distance or angle from the active position to the current node. If a point was snapped onto a line of the 3D Orthogonal Route tool, the value entered is the distance from the snap point to the current node. The entered values must comply with set rules for segment length, or you are prompted to reenter the value. For tubing with bends styles, you can also enter a precise bend radius. To enter an exact distance, start typing the value while a Direction Axes or Line Extender on the 3D Orthogonal Route tool is selected. You can also right-click, and then select Enter Distance from the context menu. Entering angles is very similar. To enter an angle, start typing the needed value while the cursor is paused over a Rotation Arrow or bent tube Rotation Handle. You can also right-click, and then select Enter Angle from the context menu. Enter exact distances while the cursor is paused over the rotation arrows, rotation handles, or lines of the 3D Orthogonal Route tool. Enter the value for the angle.

Enter the value for the distance.

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To view the current bend radius, pause the cursor over the Radius Handle. Click the tool to enter a different value for the bend radius. You can also start typing the new value while the Radius Handle is selected.

The new radius affects only the next bend. All subsequent bends use the default radius set in the Styles dialog box.

Using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool

43

Route Cycling
If more than one valid solution exists for a route based on the selected points, the Select Other tool is displayed. Click the arrows to cycle through available solutions. Click the middle green button to make your selection. If there are multiple auto-route sections in a single route, the Select Other tool cycles through the solutions in each section before advancing to the next section.

solution 1

solution 2

Solutions are evaluated and prioritized based on length and number of segments. The length and segment information is included in a tooltip as you consider the available solutions.

Creating Semi Automatic Routes


In this exercise, you quickly define a route by selecting three points using circular geometry and allowing the system to generate the rest. To create a semi automatic route 1 With the AirSystemAssy.iam file open, double-click Pipe Run:1 in the browser to activate it in place, if not already active. 2 On the Standard toolbar, click the Active Styles tool to verify that the welded steel style you created earlier is selected. If it is not, select it from the list. 3 Click the New Route tool on the Tube & Pipe panel bar. The Route environment is activated, the Route panel bar is displayed, and a pipe route is added to the active run and activated in place.

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4 On the Route panel bar, click the Route tool. The status bar prompts you to select geometry to start the route. 5 In the graphics window, pause the cursor over the circular geometry shown to highlight it. Zoom in and use the Select Other tool if needed to make your selection. Once preselected, the circular geometry is highlighted and the line extender is displayed. The line extender shows the direction of the route and valid points along the line. Press the spacebar to change the direction of the line extender if needed.

6 Click the circular geometry shown in the previous illustration to select it as the start point. This point is associated with the component that contains the selected circular edge. A work point is added to the piping route.

Creating Semi Automatic Routes

45

7 For the second route point, you can select a point on the line extender or existing geometry. Because the pipe must be routed through the I-beam, pause the cursor over the left arc of the I-beam opening to highlight it as shown.

Rotate and zoom in as needed to view the arc. Make sure the line is pointing in the approach direction of the route.

NOTE To flip the direction of a displayed axis, press the spacebar or use the
Select Other tool.

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As soon as you make your selection, the route is generated to that point and the Select Other tool appears indicating that multiple solutions exist.

8 Click the arrows to cycle through the four solutions. Click the middle button to select the first solution, which is shown in the previous image.

NOTE If you select the wrong geometry, use Undo to remove the last selection
and exit from route mode. To continue defining the route, select Route from the Tube & Pipe panel bar, and then continue selecting points.

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9 To complete the route, select the final location on the valve as shown. Again, make sure the line is pointing in the required direction.

10 Right-click, and then select Done. Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit to finish the route and exit Route mode. The first solution is selected and the route is generated based on the set pipe lengths, selected fittings, and other style settings. The completed route should appear as shown in the following illustration.

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Manually Create Routes


Many runs involve more complex routing, which requires the creation of additional route node points. These manual points can be edited directly, but remain fixed when the system recalculates the route due to other modifications. Manual points can, however, be designated as auto route (unfixed) nodes during editing. In this exercise, you create a route at the opposite end of the I-beam, using the default welded steel style. The system automatically creates the route above the I-beam, and then you select manual route points below the I-beam using the 3D Orthogonal Route tool to change directions and otherwise guide your selections. To create a route manually 1 With the AirSystemAssy.iam file open, double-click the main Tube & Pipe Run assembly to activate it, if not already active. Clicking the Return tool on the standard toolbar performs the same action. 2 In the graphics window, right-click, and then select Create Pipe Run from the context menu to add a run and start defining the second route. 3 In the Create Tube & Pipe Run dialog box, enter the name for the second run as shown, and then click OK: New File Name: Air_System2.iam New File Location: Enter the path, or browse to \Program Files\Autodesk\ Inventor Professional <version>\Tube & Pipe\Tutorial Files 4 From the Tube & Pipe panel bar, select the New Route tool to enter Route mode. 5 From the Route panel bar, select the Route tool to begin defining the route path. 6 In the graphics window, select the first two points using the skills learned previously.

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The results of the selections are as follows.

7 To extend the point through the I-beam, right-click, and then select Done. 8 Right-click the node point shown, and then select Fixed from the context menu.

node point

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9 Right-click the last node point in the route, and then select Edit Position from the context menu.

end node

10 Right-click in the graphics window, and then select Point Snap from the context menu. 11 Pause the cursor over the segment from the first route as shown. When the dashed line shows the snap point, click to create the route point at the intersection with the tool.

The point is created on the screen. 12 Click the Route tool. 13 Pause the cursor over the line extender, enter a distance for the next point by entering 2.25 inches in the graphics window, and then click the green check mark. The point is created on the screen, and the 3D Orthogonal Route tool is displayed again at the new point. This time, since the new point is an arbitrary point in space, all directions are enabled and selectable (except backwards).

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The system is ready for your next selection.

14 Rotate your view to look at the front of the assembly as shown, and then click the 45-degree Angle Control tool to change the angular position. The tool rotates to the available angular position (45 or 90 degrees) in the selected direction.

angle control tool

15 Move the cursor along the 45-degree line, and then click the line when the tooltip reads approximately 3.5 inches. The route is generated to that point.

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16 For the next point, click the 45-degree Angle Control so that the direction axis is parallel to the valve part as shown.

17 Right-click in the graphics window to be sure Point Snap is checked (on) in the context menu. Highlight the circular edge in the first valve, right-click it, and then choose Select Other Snap from the context menu. A dashed line representing the snap point is displayed from the cursor to the preview point. A preview point is displayed at the intersection of the line and the axis. 18 When the lines appear as shown in the following image, click the middle button of the Select Other tool to select the point.

19 For the last point, click the circular geometry.

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20 Right-click, and then select Done. 21 Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit.

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Practicing Your Skills


Use the skills and tools learned in the previous two examples to create the third route. Name the third route Air_System3.iam. The results should look similar to the following image when you are finished.

Select the first two route node points as you did for Pipe Route: 2. Try snapping to existing geometry, such as the elbows. The angled segment distance must be smaller than in the previous run. Try 2.8 or a similar value.

third route

Create Pipe Routes with Custom Bends


Rigid pipe routes with fittings may require a custom bend to satisfy special manufacturing situations. To add a custom bend, select Custom Bend from the context menu while creating a pipe route. The 3D Orthogonal Route tool changes to include the tube routing tools so you can create a bend with the radius and angle you need. You can create multiple custom bends in any given route.

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In this exercise, you change the style, and then create a route that is offset from the circular edge. You also use the 3D Orthogonal Route tool to create additional points, including a custom bend. To add custom bends 1 Activate the Tube & Pipe runs assembly, and then add another pipe run with the following name and location: New File Name: Air_System4.iam New File Location: Enter the path, or browse to \Program Files\Autodesk\ Inventor Professional <version>\Tube & Pipe\Tutorial Files 2 With the run activated, click the Styles tool, and then select the Threaded Steel Pipe with Iron Fittings (1/2, 90 Only) style. 3 Click the New Route tool. 4 On the Route panel bar, click the Route tool. 5 Pause the cursor over the circular edge shown, and then enter a distance of 1. The point is created offset from the circular edge by that distance.

6 Move the cursor along the line extender until the tooltip reads approximately 8.5 inches, and then click the line. You can enlarge the 3D Orthogonal Route tool by pressing + (plus) on the keypad.

7 Enlarge the 3D Orthogonal Route tool by typing + (plus) until the line reaches the top of the model.

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8 Make sure Point Snap is on, and then move the cursor over the work plane to infer the point onto the 3D Orthogonal Route tool as shown. Click to create the point.

9 Right-click in the graphics window and select Custom Bend. The 3D Orthogonal Route tool now displays the tube routing elements. 10 Click the Rotation handles and drag in the direction shown until the tooltip displays an angle of 30 degrees.

11 Pause the cursor over the red axis, and then enter a distance of 5 inches.

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The 3D Orthogonal Route tool reverts back to displaying the pipe routing elements.

12 Right-click, and then select Custom Bend to add a bend 60 degrees in the other direction, as shown in the following image. 13 Pause the cursor over the red axis, and then enter 5 for the distance value.

14 Right-click, and select Custom Bend, and then create a 30-degree angle in the other direction as shown.

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15 Pause the cursor over the red axis, and then enter 8 inches.

16 Right-click, and then select Done. Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit. The linear segments adjacent to the custom bend sequence are joined with the bend to create a single pipe segment with bends, rather than custom elbows.

Populate Routes with Library Components


A run is a solid, 3-dimensional representation of the pipes and fittings. A run starts with a path defined by a route. When you create a path with the route, you can populate the route with library components to create a run. You can add fittings to the run using the tube and pipe library. You can also document runs in presentations and drawings. To populate a run, you select the Populate Route tool. The run is automatically created using the route properties and style.

Populate Route tool

In this exercise, you populate a pipe run with library components.

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To populate a run 1 In the AirSystemAssy.iam file, double-click Pipe Run: 4 to activate it. 2 On the Tube & Pipe panel bar, click the Populate Route tool. The run is automatically populated with segments and couplings based on the active style and the defined route. 3 Right-click, and then select Finish Edit.

Each time a route is populated all segments and fittings created are added to the Pipe Run folder.

Create a Bent Tube Route


Bent tube type routes can be created at any angle and using any bend radius. For this exercise you select the soldered copper bent tube type style you created earlier, and then create a bent tube route by directing it along the Ibeam and over to the threaded steel route to the right of the model. To create a bent tube route 1 Activate the Tube & Pipe Runs assembly, and then add another pipe run with the following name and location: New File Name: Air_System4.iam New File Location: Enter the path, or browse to \Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor Professional <version>\Tube & Pipe\Tutorial Files

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2 From the Active Styles tool on the standard toolbar, select the Soldered Copper Tube (1/2 ND, .5 Bend) style. 3 From the Tube & Pipe panel bar, select New Route. 4 From the Route panel bar, select the Route tool, and then select the start point of the route as shown.

route start point

5 Enter a distance of 5 inches for the first segment. The 3D Orthogonal Route tool is displayed with the tube routing elements. 6 Click the Radius handle and enter 1 for the bend radius. 7 Rotate to get a better view of the tool, select the Rotation handle, and then drag up by 30 degrees as shown.

8 Pause the cursor over the red axis, and then enter 3 inches as the distance. 9 Select the Rotation handle, and then drag down 140 degrees.

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10 Pause the cursor over the red axis, and then enter 3 inches as the distance to get the following result.

11 Click and drag the rotation handle 15 degrees to the right, and then create two 5 inch segments along the red axis.

12 Rotate the view to look at the front of the model, click the Rotation handles, and then enter 50 degrees.

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13 Pause the cursor over the red axis, and then enter a distance of 21 inches for the next node point.

14 Enter a bend radius of 2, click and drag the rotation handles up by 40 degrees, and then enter a distance of 5 inches along the red axis.

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15 Right-click, and then select Done. Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit.

Controlling Displays of Routes and Runs


The Display Settings, which are available from the standard toolbar, determine the preview display for routes and the visibility of components in a run. You can set the display for all routes and runs in the tube and pipe assembly, or you can control the route and run display independent of one another.

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There are three available settings: Centerline display displays the created run or route preview as a series of twodimensional straight lines and route node points, which makes it easier to see and work on existing model geometry. creates the run as a three-dimensional shaded solid, which is similar to how the route will appear when it is populated. When rendered display is selected, an option for changing the preview color is provided on the Styles dialog box Display tab.

Rendered display

rendered display

centerline display

Custom display

displays the Custom Display dialog box, where you can select different display options for both routes and runs.

Runs

Routes

Use centerline display to simplify the view of your data, and for better performance while editing. Use rendered display for interference checking, drawing creation, and accurate visualization within the assembly. For optimal performance, routes are always displayed in centerline mode during creation.

NOTE The display cannot be changed directly for nested tube and pipe
assemblies. To change the display, open the tube and pipe assembly parent, and then change the display.

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To change the display for all routes and runs 1 Double-click the Tube & Pipe Runs subassembly to activate it. 2 On the Standard toolbar, select the Rendered or Centerline display setting. All routes and runs in the active assembly update accordingly. To set different display settings for routes and runs 1 Double-click the Tube & Pipe Runs subassembly to activate it. 2 On the Standard toolbar, select Custom Display from the Display Settings tool. 3 In the Custom Display dialog box, set the desired display for runs, and then set the desired display for routes. 4 Click OK. 5 All routes and runs in the active assembly updated accordingly. To set display for active routes and runs 1 Double-click the route or run to change. 2 On the Standard toolbar, select the Display Settings tool, and then select a setting. The active route or run is updated accordingly.

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Using the Tube and Pipe Library

In This Chapter

The Autodesk Inventor Tube and Pipe Library provides tube and pipe components. The components comply with industry standards. In this chapter, you learn about the Tube & Pipe Library toolbar and browser, and how to insert library components into a run. You also learn how to add a custom fitting to the tube and pipe library for use in future tube and pipe assemblies.

Introduction Access the library Navigate the library View a summary of library file

data
Configure library database files Publish custom components Publishing Wizard options Insert library components Replace fittings Place non-library components

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About the Tube and Pipe Library


The tube and pipe library contains libraries of fittings and component parts that are standard for creating routed systems. Libraries from several different industry standards are provided. You access the library items using the Tube & Pipe Library browser, which provides tools for navigating the library parts and for configuring additional libraries, much like the Autodesk Inventor Content Library. Once you locate a needed part in a library, you set parameters for the part, and then use i-drop to insert the part in the assembly file or directly onto a run. When a library part is dropped into an assembly, an .ipt file is created for the inserted part and is added to the Tube & Pipe browser. Using the Publishing Wizard tool on the Part Features panel bar, you can add your own custom parts to the library for easy access and reuse.

Accessing the Library


The tube and pipe library is available as soon as you open an assembly file in Autodesk Inventor Professional. To display the library, you click the arrow beside Model, and then select Tube & Pipe Library from the menu.

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The Tube & Pipe Library browser and toolbar are displayed as shown in the following illustration.

Back Parent Forward List View/Icon View

Use the features of the browser to do the following: Back Parent Forward List/Icon View Configure Display the previous page you viewed. Display the parent (folder) page, which is one level up in the structure of the current catalog. Display the next page. Switch between text view mode and icon view mode for displaying library items. Display the Configure Library Database Files dialog box, which is used to add, remove, and edit libraries and library database files.

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Using the Library Browser


The Tube & Pipe Library browser provides two viewing modes, List View and Icon View, and tools for navigating the list of registered libraries. List View Icon View Provides a textual description of library items including folders and part families. Displays a preview image of the library item along with a textual description.

The browser also displays a Configure button for configuring library database files. You navigate the hierarchy in the Tube & Pipe Library browser by doubleclicking these items. As you navigate in the browser list, you go from the registered libraries at the top level to the intermediate levels that display the different part families or categories of libraries, such as tees, elbows, and couplings. Each library contains individual part pages that include a preview picture of the selected component and its parameters. These navigation shortcut buttons are available to browse to other locations in the database: Back Forward Parent Return to the previous page. Display the next page. Go up one level in the catalog database.

View Summaries of Library File Data


Before using the browser to navigate the library, it is helpful to know how a particular industry standard classifies their fittings. Each standard classifies them in a different way. It may also be helpful to know the name and available specifications for the part you want. You may also need help in locating compatible fittings. For files containing a summary of all data in a given standards library, see the Help for Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube and Pipe. The summary files include a thumbnail image, category, part name, and specifications. Use the compatible fittings files to search for parts based on the standard and other criteria you select. Take a few minutes to review these files before proceeding.

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To view a summary file of library data 1 Open the Autodesk Inventor Professional Help. 2 In the index, search for and select fittings, data organization. 3 On the Learn about Tube and Pipe Library fitting content topic page, expand the Link to part summary data section, and then click the link to the JIS library summary file. 4 In the JIS Pipe Fittings Catalog dialog box, click the link that indicates how to browse. 5 When the file is displayed, scroll as needed to skim through the library, and then look for the Elbow category to see what parts are available. 6 Close the file when you finish browsing. 7 Expand the Link to and use the compatible parts spreadsheets section, and then open the compatible fitting file for the JIS standard. 8 Click open when prompted whether or not to download the file. 9 Use the drop-down lists in the column headers to filter each column for your search. Click the links to display the associated part summary information. 10 Close the spreadsheets and the Help when you are done.

Configure Library Database Files


The libraries included in the Autodesk Inventor Professional Library are provided by database files. You can include as many library database files and use as many libraries as you need. At the top level of the browser, click Configure to display the Configure Library dialog box. The dialog box lists existing libraries so you can add new library database files to the list. Several industry standard libraries are supplied by default. Workflows for adding, editing, and removing listed library database files follow. System-supplied (Read-Only) libraries can be renamed and removed from the list using the Configure Library dialog box. Use the Configure button to add or edit a library database file. To edit an existing library, click Edit on the Configure Library dialog box, select the library name to edit, and then make the needed changes to the library name and storage location. In this exercise, you create a new library database file, and then add it to the Library Browser.

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To add a library database file 1 Start with the file AirsystemAssy.iam open. 2 In the library browser, display the library page with the list of libraries. 3 Click the Configure button at the bottom of the browser to display the Configure Library dialog box. 4 In the Configure Library dialog box, click the Add button, and then specify the library name to appear in the browser as Custom JIS Library. 5 Click the Browse button to browse to the storage location for the new library, and then enter the name for the .mdb file to create as custom_JIS_lib.mdb. The Library file name must have the .mdb extension. The default local storage location is a workspace or library that has been added to the project. This is where the files from the library are copied when they are instanced in an assembly. 6 In the Add Library File dialog box, click Open, and then click Yes when prompted to create the file. The library file is created. The changes are reflected in the Configure Library dialog box. 7 Click Save in the Add Library File dialog box. 8 In the Configure Library dialog box, click Done. The changes are reflected in the Tube & Pipe Library browser. You can also use the Configure Library dialog box to remove library database files. The workflow for removing a library database file is described in the exercise that follows. To remove a library database file 1 In the library browser, display the library page with the list of libraries, and then click Configure. 2 In the Configure Library dialog box, select the library database file to remove from the list, and then click Remove. 3 In the confirmation dialog box, click Yes, and then click Done.

NOTE If you remove a library database file by mistake, use the Add option to
add it back in. Deleting a library removes only the reference.

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Publishing Custom Tube & Pipe Components


You can customize your own fittings, transform them into an iPart factory, and prepare them so they can be used in tube and pipe runs. For information on preparing an iPart, refer to the Preparing an iPart for publishing topic in the Tube & Pipe Help. To quickly locate the topic, search for and select iParts in the index. A custom part can be added to the tube and pipe library, or saved to another location. No matter where you choose to store this part, you must use the Publishing Wizard to prepare it before dropping it into a tube and pipe assembly. To display the Publishing Wizard, you open the iPart to publish, and then click the Tube Pipe Publishing Wizard tool on the Part Features panel bar. Scroll to locate the tool on the panel bar.

Tube Pipe Publishing Wizard

The Publishing Wizard guides you through the process for preparing custom fittings for use in a tube and pipe assembly and if desired, adding them to the tube and pipe library. With the wizard, you set the needed connection information, define the part to locate it in the library structure and make it available for library queries, and then add it to the library. If you do not want to make the part available from the library, you can save the part to a different location.

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When the Publishing Wizard is first displayed, it looks like the following image:

Navigation buttons

The browser at the left of the dialog box provides a navigation button to each part of the four-step process: Start Connections Specify the number of connections for the part. Set attributes for each connection, map the component to the corresponding iPart table, pick the connection point and axis for the part, and then specify the engagement position. Describe how to add the component to the library using new or existing categories. Set the part designation description and attach additional parameters for library queries. Review the component image and summary of attributes that were set on previous pages, and then specify a language for publishing.

Part definition

Publish

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Options in the Publishing Wizard


Use the browser buttons in the Publishing Wizard to move to the next step in the publishing process. As you advance through the process, the browser highlights the active steps. After all of the required information is entered, click Publish to add the part to the library, or click Save to store the part in a nonlibrary location.

Start
The Start step is where you specify the number of connections for the part you are publishing. There are two options: Pipe Connections Click this check box if you are publishing a standard twoconnection pipe or tube segment. For all part types other than a pipe segment, enter the number of connections to publish.

Connections
In the Connections step, you click the buttons at the top of the dialog box to set connection information for each connection specified in the first step. You map the first connection to the appropriate column in the part iPart table. Then you select the connection geometry for the tube and pipe component in the graphics area, and set values for the minimum and maximum engagement positions. The dialog box is displayed as follows. In Connection, the numbers displayed match the number of connections you set on the Start step.

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Connection Number Displays a button for each of the connections. Click the button representing the connection to set, and then set the needed parameters. The button changes from red to black when required connection criteria is satisfied. Continue to click buttons and set parameters until all connections are defined. End Treatment Lists the possible end treatments for the current connection point. An end treatment can be defined for each connection in the part. Click the arrow to select from the list of treatments including threaded, welded, flared, and several other types. Parameter Lists the parameters for the selected connection. If you are preparing a pipe to be published, there are five parameters listed. If preparing a fitting, only the nominal size is required. Select a parameter, and then map it to the appropriate iPart table column. Table Mapping For each parameter listed, specify its mapping to the appropriate iPart column name. Click the arrow to select an iPart column name from the list. When creating the iPart, make sure the necessary values are included in the iPart table. All iParts must include:

Nominal diameter (ND) Size designation

NOTE The Publishing Wizard gets the material setting from the part
properties. To change the material, right-click the part, and then select Properties on the context menu. On the Physical tab, change the material as needed. Pipe iParts must contain:

Nominal diameter (ND) Schedule number (SN) Outside diameter (OD) Inside diameter (ID) Pipe length (PL)

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Fitting iParts must contain:

Nominal diameter (ND)

NOTE For more information about preparing an iPart, refer to the Preparing
an iPart for publishing topic in the Tube & Pipe Help. To quickly locate the topic, search for and select iParts in the index. Once set, parameter mappings are automatically populated for all other connections. You need not set them again unless the connection is a different size. Connection Connection settings determine the connection geometry, type, and direction of the axis. A warning message is displayed if you do not complete the table mapping before you start to set the connection parameters. In this case, set and map the parameter before you continue. This section has four options.

Connection Axis tool Connection Point tool

Connection Axis tool

Sets the direction in which to connect the part being published. You click the icon, and then select either a circular edge or existing work axis for the connection. An arrow in the graphics window shows the set axis direction. The axis direction should point outside of the part, not inside. To flip the arrow in the opposite direction, click the Flip Direction button. Sets the point at which the fitting connects with existing geometry. You click the icon, and then select either a circular edge or existing work point for the connection in the graphics window. A work point is displayed at the center of the circular edge.

Connection Point tool

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Flip direction

Changes the axis to the opposite direction.

Female

Sets the type of connection and the direction of the displayed work axis. Check the Female check box for female connections, clear it for male.

Engagement Before a custom fitting can be placed in a tube and pipe assembly, insertion information must be set. Parts from the library already include this information. Pipe engagement determines the range (minimum and maximum engagement position values) for how a pipe is inserted into a fitting. The maximum engagement position (MaxEP) for a pipe connection is the distance from the connection point to the MaxEP. The minimum engagement position (MinEP) is the distance from the connection point to the MinEP. The set engagement range is displayed in the graphics window, and is updated dynamically as changes are made to the MaxEP and MinEP settings.

engagement range

axis direction

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NOTE The Engagement section of the dialog box is not available until the
required settings in the previous sections are set. There are three types of engagement that you can set: fixed The actual maximum engagement position distance. You can enter the distance in the dialog box, or click a point on the connection axis. The MaxEP is a percentage of the nominal size value (NS). This engagement type automatically adjusts to changes in the nominal size. Establishes an association between the connection point and a work point representing the maximum engagement position. The point can be an existing work point or work point that is created by the intersection of a selected planar face and the work axis.

ratio

Max Engagement (Associated)

Depending on the engagement method you choose, you check or clear the Fixed check box, and then set a maximum input value. You can set the value directly in the dialog box, or interactively by selecting geometry in the graphics window. The minimum engagement position is always specified as a percentage of the MaxEP distance. When a pipe is inserted into a fitting, the pipe fitting procedure applies the defined minimum and maximum to ensure the engagement position is within the specified range. Depending on the minimum increment set in the style, the end of the pipe will be between the MinEP and the MaxEP. To learn how to set the different types of engagement, refer to the To set minimum and maximum engagement positions topic in the Tube & Pipe Help. Search for and select engagement position in the index to display the topic.

Part Definition
The left side of the part definition step defines the part and information that is used in manufacturing. The parameters on the right, describe where in the library structure to place the part. You can use the categories in the selected library structure or add new ones. You can also attach additional parameters to the categories. Part definition information is displayed for parts that have been previously prepared and saved using the wizard. You can modify this information as needed. For new parts, this information must be defined. The Naming section sets a family name and general description. The Standard section contains four settings. The Standard Organization is the organization that maintains the technical standards for the component.

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Manufacturer is the company that manufactures the part. The Specification and Revision number are updated, based on the Standard Organization. New values can be entered for Standard Organization and Specification. The values then become a new standard available in the Styles dialog box. The Content Library setting defines the library where you want the part to belong. Parts can only be published to libraries that have Read/Write permission. Publishing to one of the standard libraries is prohibited. If you need to configure a new custom content library, click the Configure button. The category section lists the contents of the selected library. Check the category and part family where you want the component to be organized. Right-click, and then select New Category from the context menu to add a new part family. Right-click, and then select from the context menu to Rename or Delete a category you defined. You cannot delete or rename system categories or families. You also cannot add categories or parameters to system categories or families.

NOTE For more information about configuring a library, see Configure


Library Database Files on page 71.

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Use the Parameter setting to define the required part Designation and additional parameters that are used for library queries. The Designation should uniquely identify the part, since it is used as a base for the parts file name. Click the arrow to select and map other parameters from the list to the selected iPart table column. Use the New Parameter selection to define your own parameters. Items listed in red are required settings that have not been set. These items must be set before advancing to the next step. Publish The last step in the Publishing Wizard displays the settings, and if available, an image of the part for you to verify. Use the scroll bars to view and verify all information. Return to the previous steps to make corrections, then reverify the settings on the Publish step. Once the information is complete and accurate, click Save to save the part to a location of your choice. It is a good idea to save the part before publishing. If you want to edit the part and republish it later, you will not have to enter all the data again. A saved part can also be placed into an assembly using the place component command. Click the Publish button to publish the part to the library and dismiss the dialog. A dialog box is displayed when the process is completed.

Preparing Parts with the Publishing Wizard


In this exercise, you use the Publishing Wizard to standardize a selected part and add it to the tube and pipe library. Use the browse buttons on the left of the dialog box to move to the next step. To set the number of connections 1 From the Tube & Pipe directory, open the Tutorial Files subdirectory, and then open the JISB2301_MaleFemaleUnionTypeFClassI.ipt part file.

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2 Click the Tube & Pipe Publishing Wizard icon on the Part Feature panel bar. 3 On the Start step of the Publishing Wizard dialog box, ensure that 2 is set as the number of connections. 4 Click the Connections navigation button or Next to advance to the next step. Define connection parameters for connection 1. To define connection 1 1 When the Connections page is first displayed, verify that button 1 is selected to indicate that you are setting the information for connection 1. 2 Verify that Threaded is selected as the end treatment for the segment. 3 Click the arrow for the Parameter setting to see that the nominal size is the only parameter for this part. 4 In the Table Mapping list, scroll to and select ND (nominal diameter). This maps the ND parameter to the appropriate column name in the iPart table. 5 Click the Connection Point tool, and then select the connection point in the graphics window. Pause the cursor over the geometry until the circular edge is highlighted as shown. 6 Click to select the highlighted edge.

selected edge

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A connection point is displayed at the center of the circular edge.

connection point

7 Click the Connection Axis tool, and then define the connection axis in the graphics window. Pause the cursor over the same circular edge that you selected for the work point, and click to select. An arrow shows the axis direction.

axis direction

If the axis points toward the inside of the part, click the Flip direction button. 8 Clear the Female check box to indicate that it is a male type connection. 9 Specify the Engagement setting. For this example, set a fixed engagement. Check the Fixed check box, and then enter 11.5 as the value for Max.

NOTE If the engagement section is dimmed, a required setting, such as the


connection axis, was not yet set. You must complete all previous settings before you can set engagement values.

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83

The value of the specified MaxEP is shown in the dialog box and the corresponding length of the MaxEP distance is shown in the graphics window. The actual MaxEP distance is the projected distance from the connection point to the MaxEP point along the connection axis.

MaxEP distance

Button 1 should now be black, indicating that all connection criteria is satisfied for connection 1.

NOTE If button 1 is not black, some required information is missing. The


connection point, connection axis, and nominal mapping settings are required. You must supply the required information before advancing to the Publish step. Define connection parameters for connection 2. To define connection 2 1 Rotate the part so that you can see connection 2, and then use what you just learned to set the following values. 2 Click button 2 to begin defining the second connection. The first three settings are populated with information set for connection 1, and because the nominal sizes are the same, you do not need to set it again.

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3 Go to the Connection settings, and then select the geometry to define the connection point and connection axis as shown in the following illustration.

connection point

connection axis

4 Check the Female check box, to indicate the connection type is female. 5 Click the Flip direction button to flip the axis direction. 6 Clear the Fixed check box, click the Max Engagement tool, and then select the face of the connector to set an associated engagement. 7 Click the Part Definition browser button or next to advance to the next step.

face

The MaxEP is defined by a work point on the connection axis. The MaxEP work point can be an existing work point or it can be created by the intersection of a selected planar face and the connection axis. The actual MaxEP distance is the distance from the connection point to the MaxEP point along the connection axis.

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85

The information you provide to define the part sets the structure for its location in the tube and pipe library, provides a base for the part file name and makes the part attributes available for library queries. To define the part 1 Enter a Family Name, if not already displayed. 2 Enter a description for the part, such as Custom male/female steel coupling. 3 From the Standard organization list, select JIS. 4 From the Specification list, select JIS B 2301. If JIS B 2301 does not appear in the list, enter JIS B 2301. 5 From the Content Library list, select the Custom Library you created earlier as the library to use for the part.

NOTE You can also configure new libraries from the Publishing Wizard dialog
box by using the Configure button. 6 To create a category for the library, right-click the background of the Type list, and then select New Category from the context menu. 7 Name the new category Custom JIS Components. Custom JIS Components is added to the Type list. 8 Select Custom JIS Components in the list, and then add a part family named Union. 9 Check the box beside Union to indicate where to organize the part.

10 For the required Designation parameter, select Size Designation for the Table Mapping value.

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11 Set any additional parameters you would like to make available for queries in the library. Right-click in the Parameter... title bar to view the options on the context menu. To define your own parameter, select New Parameter from the list, and then provide a new parameter name. 12 Click Next to advance to the Publish page. You can publish the part to the library or save it to a location of your choice. To save the part to a location of your choice, click the Save button in the dialog box once you reach the Publish step. For this example you Publish the part to the part family that you created in the tube and pipe library. To publish the part 1 On the Publish step, verify the image and summary information.

2 Click Publish. While you wait, the information is processed and the part is added to the tube and pipe library. When processing is completed, the part is available in the library. You can navigate to JISB2301_MaleFemaleUnionTypeFClassI.ipt in the library and practice using the i-drop functionality to place it in a sample model or model of your choice.

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Placing Tube and Pipe Components


Fittings can be inserted into runs on straight segments or at route node end points. They can also be dropped anywhere in the graphics window. Segment length must comply with the minimum segment length style once the fitting is placed, and the fitting must match the diameter of the active run, or the insertion is not allowed. The part being dropped must also be appropriate for the drop point selected. For example, elbows may not be dropped on straight segments. The components you can use include both nonlibrary parts and parts from the tube and pipe library. Parts from the library are placed using i-drop. Nonlibrary parts are added to the design using Place Fitting on the Tube & Pipe panel bar. The Place Fitting procedure is covered later in this chapter. Parts can also replace previously placed or deleted components. In this case you insert the new component at route node points that were defined by the component being replaced.

Insert Library Components Using I-drop


Library fittings can be inserted into a run using i-drop. To specify a particular part, you must first set up its parameters on the part page. In this exercise, you activate and populate a run, locate a standard fitting, select the nominal diameter, and then use i-drop to insert it into the run. To insert a library fitting using i-drop 1 Open the AirSystemAssy.iam file if not already open. 2 Activate Pipe Run: 1 and populate it with library components. 3 Switch to the Tube & Pipe Library browser by clicking the arrow beside Model, and then selecting Tube & Pipe Library. 4 In the browser, go to the ANSI Library, and then find and open the Tee folder. 5 In the Tee folder, display the page for the tee named: ASME B16.11 Tee Class 3000.

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6 On the part page, ensure that 1/8 is selected as the ND (nominal diameter) so it matches the 1/8 inch diameter of the segment onto which it is being dropped.

7 Pause the cursor over the eyedropper image, and then click and hold down the left mouse button. The cursor changes to the full eyedropper. 8 Drag the Tee fitting into the open file, and then drop it onto the straight segment on Pipe Route: 1as shown. Right-click, and then select Done. The result is shown in the following image.

Replace Existing Components


Replacement fittings use the route information of the previous part. Orientation and position can be adjusted if the part type and connection information allows.

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89

To replace an existing component 1 To begin, with the AirSystemAssy.iam file still open, click the back button in the library toolbar to get back to the ANSI library. 2 Navigate to the ANSI Cross part family. 3 Select the ASME B16.11 Cross-Class 3000 part, and ensure that 1/8 is selected as the Nominal Diameter. 4 Drag the Cross onto the Tee fitting that you just placed. The Cross part inserts into the run where the Tee fitting was.

NOTE You can also place a nonlibrary replacement fitting using the Place
Fitting tool on the Tube & Pipe panel bar. The 3D Orthogonal Route Tool is displayed so you can rotate the fitting as needed. 5 Use the rotation arrows to rotate the tee so that the opening is facing as shown in the following image.

Edit Position can also be used to move replaced fittings. Click the run to edit, pause the cursor over the fitting so the node is highlighted, right-click, and then select Edit Position. The 3D Orthogonal Route tool appears for the fitting.

90

Place Nonlibrary Components


Components that do not reside in the tube and pipe library, but have been prepared for use in a tube and pipe assembly with the Publishing Wizard can be added to a run using Place Fitting on the Tube and Pipe panel bar.

Place Fitting tool

If you have a nonlibrary custom component, you can place it in the AirSystemAssy.iam file. To place a non-library component 1 Activate the run to receive the fitting. 2 On the Tube & Pipe panel bar, click the Place Fitting tool. 3 In the Open dialog box, browse to, and then select the component to place, and then click Open. The selected component is placed in the graphics window, attached to the cursor. 4 Click a point of your choice for insertion.

To insert an elbow, select a direction change node point. To insert other types of components, select any point along an existing run segment.

NOTE The active iPart (the selected row in the iPart table) must match the run
onto which it is being dropped. 5 To place additional occurrences of the same part, move the cursor to a different location and click. Continue until all occurrences are placed. 6 Right-click, and then select Done.

Placing Tube and Pipe Components

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92

Editing Routes and Runs

In This Chapter

Edits to tube and pipe systems can be made dynamically by dragging segments, route endpoints, or bends or by using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool or various context menu items. Changes can also be made by modifying and changing style. In this chapter, you learn how to change the location and orientation of segments and fittings, and modify the position of route node points. You also remove components, add to a previously finished route, and learn about the different context menu options.

Introduction Context menu edit options Add to finished routes Insert node points Edit dynamically Change route points to update

dynamically
Change associativity Delete components Edit fittings

93

About Editing Routes and Runs


Autodesk Inventor Tube & Pipe provides several methods for updating and modifying each component of a tube and pipe system to accommodate changes in design criteria and in the assembly model. After finishing the initial definition of a route or run, you can continue to make changes as needed. In route mode, you can change the location and orientation of selected segments and fittings by dragging them to a new location or by using the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool. For bent tube routes, you can edit the radius of bends. You can also change how a selected route point behaves during dynamic edits of the route or the assembly model. Fittings at associative nodes can be turned off. Modifying or changing the style is another way of modifying a tube and pipe assembly. Finished routes and runs can be modified in several ways. You can:

Insert, remove, or reposition segments and route node points. Insert, replace, reposition, and remove a fitting or other tube and pipe component. Edit the bend radius of any bend or all bends using a particular style. Use 3D move/rotate to move tube nodes in three dimensions. Move tube nodes to introduce new bends. Change or modify the style. Set route node points to update dynamically to changes in model geometry. Set route node points to update dynamically to changes in the route or run. Set whether or not a fitting appears for associative points.

Using Undo reverses the last action taken during the current editing session, and exits you from the current command.

NOTE Consider the affect of changes to assembly model geometry on which


the routes and runs depend. For example, deleting parts or editing geometry in the model that affects associative route node points may require you to delete the run and redefine the route.

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Work in Autodesk Inventor Installations


If Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube & Pipe is not installed on the system, viewing the tube and pipe data, the Tube & Pipe runs subassembly and all that it contains is read-only. This means that the outline of the tube and pipe component is visible through Autodesk Inventor, but the component cannot be edited, and new tube and pipe components cannot be added. The tasks you can perform with the data include:

Open and edit an assembly that contains a Tube & Pipe Runs subassembly. Determine interferences with piping components by selecting the entire tube and pipe runs subassembly in the browser. View the outline of tube and pipe run data within the context of an open assembly file. Turn visibility off to completely hide the Tube & Pipe Runs component in the graphics window. Create detailed drawings of tube and pipe data within any file.

Editing Options
You can edit both populated and unpopulated routes. If the route is populated, activating the route to edit it in-place rolls back the run to its prepopulated state. That means the library components populating the route are temporarily not included and the route is displayed in centerline mode by default.

Edit Options on the Route Panel Bar


All editing takes place in Route mode. When you are in route mode, the route panel bar is displayed. The panel bar is shown below.

Route

Insert Node

Grounded Move Move Node Segments Work Point

Editing Options

95

Edit Options On Context Menus


Many edit actions start by selecting from the context menu. The context menu varies depending on the edit context and the selected item. The context menu items for editing include: Associative Turns associativity on or off for selected route node points. When checked, if the geometry that the node point is associated to changes, the pipe run node updates to reflect the change. This option is available only for node points associated to other geometry. Defines whether a selected route node point can change dynamically when the route is edited. Manually created route points are fixed by default. When Fixed is not selected, manually created node points can be modified automatically (added, removed, or repositioned) when editing the route. Otherwise these points remain stationary. This option is available on all node points, with the exception of associated node points and node points for placed fittings. Removes the selected item from the browser and the graphics window. Deleting a node removes it from the run. The system then re-evaluates the automatic routing against the style settings and updates the run. This option is available for segments and start nodes. Activates the selected fitting and provides the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool for rotational changes. It is available only for placed fittings. Activates the selected node point and provides the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool for translational edits. This is available for segments that are adjacent to associative nodes or placed fittings. Turns the appearance of a fitting (coupling) on and off for nodes associated to geometry. When cleared, the fitting is not created, the pipe remains a single segment, and the nodes remain associative to the selected geometry. Replaces a placed fitting with the default fitting (elbow or coupling) for the set style. Interactively positions grounded work points by dragging the triad in a planar move, axial move or rotate, free movement, or entering values along X, Y, or Z axes.

Fixed

Delete

Edit Orientation Edit Position

Fitting

Restore 3D/Move Rotate

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Add To Finished Runs or Routes


New route points and segments can be added to a previously finished route or run by activating the route to edit, and then using the Route tool. A route is considered finished when you select Finish Route or use the ESC key. You can also use Route to finish defining your route after using Undo, and to repair disjointed routes. To add a point to an existing route 1 Start with the file AirSystemAssy.iam open. 2 In the browser, double-click the pipe route in Pipe Run: 5 to activate it in place. 3 Click the Route tool on the Route panel bar. The route resumes at the last selected node point.

4 Add one more point to the run in a location and orientation of your choice. 5 Right-click, and then select Done. 6 Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit.

Insert Route Node Points


Additional route node points can be added to any route or run as long as they comply with set styles. To insert additional node points 1 In the browser, double-click a pipe route of your choice to activate it in place. 2 Click the Insert Node tool. 3 Click on the route to insert a node point. 4 Right-click, and then select Finish Edit. A coupling is added to the run in that location.

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Dynamically Edit Routes


Segments and route endpoints can be repositioned dynamically by clicking and dragging the selected geometry to a new location. The movement allowed follows the conditions established by the current style and connection data. It also depends on the geometry adjacent to the point you select for the drag operation. As you drag the selected geometry, the system re-evaluates and updates adjacent route components. Not all points affected by the drag operation update. Route points that are automatically generated between points on selected geometry update when changes are made to a route. By default, manually created route points, points attached to circular geometry or work points, and points that have been set to Fixed, do not update as the route is modified.

Understand Route Feedback


When moving segments, arrows appear on the geometry indicating the directions allowed for the move. Click anywhere on the segment near the direction arrow you need, or click and drag the arrow directly. The arrow changes to red indicating that it is the direction being dragged. If the minimum length setting for the style is violated during a drag, the segment or segments in violation turn red. A tooltip also displays the segment length and the message <Min Pipe Length> in red text. If alternate solutions are available, the Select Other tool appears for you to cycle through and select the solution you need.

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Remove Unwanted Segments or Node Points


You can also remove unwanted segments or node points in your route using dynamic editing. To remove them, drag the geometry until the node points are coincident with adjacent node points.

Release the cursor to stop the drag and the unwanted segment is removed.

You can then delete the extra node points using Delete from the context menu, or by dragging the unwanted node points until they are coincident with an adjacent one. When they are coincident, release the cursor to end the drag and remove the node point. While you are dragging, you can use the ESC key to cancel the drag and return to regular editing. In this example, you adjust a section of Pipe Route: 1, by dragging the selected segment to a new location.

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99

To dynamically edit a route 1 Double-click the route in Pipe Run: 1 to activate it in place. 2 From the Route panel bar, select Move Segment. 3 Pause the cursor over the left end of the route until the arrow changes to red. The movement allowed depends on the geometry closest to the point you select for the drag operation. If the point is a coupling or an associated node point, the movement is restricted.

4 Click and drag the segment until it is almost even with the segment to the right. Notice how the drag has violated the minimum length requirement.

5 Click and drag the segment down as far as it will go without violating the minimum pipe length. To end the drag operation, release the cursor. 6 Right-click, and then select Done. 7 To update the run, right-click, and then select Finish Edit.

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Change Manual Route Points to Update Dynamically


As mentioned earlier, manually created node points are fixed by default and do not update dynamically when the system recalculates the route because of changes to adjacent segments. To change manually created node points so they can update dynamically, deselect the Fixed option on the context menu. The work flow for changing Fixed node points is described below. To change manually created route points 1 Activate the pipe route to edit. 2 Right-click the route node point to change, and then deselect the Fixed setting on the context menu. 3 Right-click, and then select Done. You can experiment by dragging various segments on different routes to see how they move. Then, cancel the selection of several fixed node points so they are updated dynamically, and then drag the same segments to see the different in movement.

Change Associativity
Points created by selecting circular geometry or work points are associated to the selected model geometry by default. Associative route node points, automatically update when changes are made to the model. To turn associativity off so a route does not update, cancel the Associativity option on the context menu. In this exercise, you turn off associativity for the point associated to the Ibeam in Pipe Route: 2.

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101

To turn off associativity for a node point 1 Click and drag the I-beam to the right to see how the routes update. The following image shows how the routes associated to the I-beam adjust to the move.

nonassociative routes

The steel and copper runs are not associated to the I-beam and do not update. 2 Undo the move. 3 Activate the Pipe Route: 2. 4 Right-click the node point shown, and then cancel the selection of Associativity on the context menu.

node point

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5 Right-click, and then select Done. Right-click again, and then select Finish. 6 Repeat steps 3 and 4 for Pipe Run:3. 7 Move the I-beam again, and Pipe Routes 2 and 3 are not updated.

non-associative non-associative

associative

8 Undo the move before continuing.

Delete Components
You can delete an entire route or run or any individual component (node points, fittings, or segments) it contains. The system automatically closes gaps left by deleted node points or couplings between straight segments. Segments adjoining the deleted route points reposition or resize to adjust to the change. Routes and runs do not heal when deleting library fittings or segments. To delete an entire route or run, double-click the Tube & Pipe Runs subassembly in the browser. Right-click the item to remove, and then select Delete. To delete segments and node points 1 Activate the route in Pipe Run: 4 as the route to edit. 2 Pause the cursor over the last segment you created, right-click, and then select Delete. 3 Right-click the node point for the coupling, and then select Delete. The run automatically heals. 4 Right-click, and then select Done. Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit.

Editing Options

103

Edit Bent Tube Routes


All editing options work for bent tube runs. Edit position, however, behaves differently for tube runs. When moving a tube segment, both adjacent points are moved by the same distance and direction. The adjoining bends change their included angle to make the new route possible. No new segments are introduced. In addition, you can also edit the bend radius and move coupling nodes.

Change Bend Radius


The radius dimension is displayed for each bend in a tube run by default. You can change the bend radius for selected nodes in the active route. To edit the bend radius on individual nodes, you edit dimensions. To change bend radius on individual nodes 1 Double-click the pipe route under Pipe Run: 5 to activate it in place. 2 Double-click the bend radius dimension shown.

3 Enter .75 as the new value, and then click the green check mark. The radius changes for that node only.

4 Right-click, select Finish Edit, and then click the update button to update the route and run.

NOTE Alternatively, you can choose Select Features from the Select tool on the
standard toolbar while the top-level assembly is activated, and then double-click the bend radius dimension. Enter the new bend radius, and then click the Update button.

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Move a Coupling Node


In tube runs you can move coupling nodes in three dimensions. Moving the point off the segment axis deletes the coupling and inserts a bend. The adjacent bends are modified accordingly. To move the coupling node 1 Double-click the route in Pipe Run: 5 to activate it in place. 2 Right-click the node point shown, and then select 3D Move/Rotate from the context menu.

3 Move the point to the right to achieve the results shown in the following image.

4 Right-click, and then select Finish Edit.

Editing Options

105

Editing Fittings
Once a fitting is placed, you can delete it or change its position and orientation in the run. You can also replace the fitting with a similar one as you did in an earlier chapter. While editing a selected fitting, the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool appears so you can change orientation around the axis as needed.

Adjust Fitting Orientation


Fittings placed on a run can be moved as needed. When you move a fitting at the end of a run, the run extends because they are associated with one another. To change the position of a fitting in a run, you can click and drag the fitting along the segment as long as it remains within the minimum pipe length requirements. If exact placement is desired, right-click, and then select Enter Distance to enter a precise value. In this exercise, you change fitting orientation. To change fitting orientation 1 Activate Pipe Run: 1. 2 In the graphics window, right-click the Cross fitting, and then select Edit Orientation. Use the 3D Orthogonal Route Tool to rotate the Cross fitting to a position of your choice. 3 Right-click, and then select Done. Right-click again, and then select Finish Edit.

Turn Off Fittings


While editing a run, fittings that are created between straight segments and are associated to model geometry can be turned off. When a fitting is turned off, the route node point locates a segment instead of a fitting, and the node remains associated with the object in the assembly.

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In this tube and pipe system, the fittings used to route through the I-beam in pipe routes 2 and 3 are not needed, but must remain associated to the I-beam. In this exercise, you turn the fittings off for Pipe Route: 2 and Pipe Route: 3.

fitting node

To turn fittings off in a route 1 Activate the route in Pipe Run:2. 2 Right-click the fitting in the graphics window, and then cancel the selection of Fitting on the context menu. 3 Right-click, and then select Finish Edit. The pipe fitting is not displayed, but the parametric relationship with the Ibeam remains. 4 Activate the route in Pipe Run:3, and then repeat Steps 2 and 3 to turn off the Fitting in Pipe Run:3.

Practicing Your Skills


For additional practice you can:

Populate the remaining routes. Add one more route to the tube and pipe assembly. Try dynamic edits on different sections of a route to see the effect. Change the Associative and Fixed status of selected node points, and then make changes to the model and the routes. Create a tube route and a pipe route with the same shape, and then dynamically edit the nodes and segments to see the differences. Insert additional fittings and node points.

Practicing Your Skills

107

108

Index

3D Orthogonal Route tool, 34, 37, 40, 41 arbitrary bends, 40 entering precise values, 42 pipe elements, 35 tube elements, 36

browsers tube and pipe, 14 tube and pipe library, 69

C
centerline displays, 64 color 3D Orthogonal Route tool displays, 37 color settings tube and pipe components, 21 configuring library database files, 71 Connection Axis tool, 77 Connection Point tool, 77 connections defining in Publishing Wizard, 76 end treatment, 76 parameters, 76 setting number of, 75 context menu items, 96 couplings, setting defaults, 22 Create Tube and Pipe Runs dialog box, 11 Created Segments tab, 21 custom bends, 55 Custom Display dialog box, 65 custom displays, 64 custom fittings, 76 connection axes and connection points, 77 connection axes and points, 77 connection type styles, 78 flipping axis directions, 78 mapping to iPart tables, 76 number of connections, 75 organizing in tube and pipe library, 79 publishing, 73, 81 saving, 81

A
Active Styles tool, 14 adaptivity, changing for node points, 96 add-on applications, using with tube and pipe, 15 angle control, 45-degree, 35 angles, precise values, 42 angular positions 45-degree increments, 39 90-degree increments, 37 any angles, 40 defining, 37 setting precise values, 42 application window, tube and pipe, 9 associated engagement, 79 associativity, changing for node points, 96, 101 auto route node points, 96, 101 Autodesk Inventor Professional using tube and pipe data, 15 axis directions, flipping, 78

B
bend radii, 43, 102 bends creating custom, 55 setting default radii, 21 setting radii, 43

Index

109

custom styles, 23 adding to templates, 28 cycle, route solutions, 44

D
default fittings, restoring, 96 default styles, changing, 27 delete option, 96 dialog boxes Create Tube and Pipe Runs, 11 Custom Display, 65 Publishing Wizard, 74 Styles, 19, 21, 22 direction axes, 35 display settings, 14, 64 Display Settings tool, 14 Display tab, 21 displays 3D Orthogonal Route tool size and color, 37 change route preview colors, 21 distances, precise values, 42 dragging components, 98 drawing templates, 16 drawings tube and pipe, 15 dynamic edits, 98

fittings (continued) library, 68 materials and standards, 20 placing, 68 publishing to tube and pipe library, 73 removing extra, 99 replacing, 89 restoring defaults, 96 setting default styles, 22 styles, 20 turning off, 96, 106 Fittings tab, 22 fittings, locating, 70 fixed engagement, 79 fixed node points, 96

G
general styles, 20 General tab, 20

H
Help systems, Autodesk Inventor Professional, 2

I
Icon View tool, 70 i-drop, 88 inserting route node points, 97 intermediate route node points, 34 iPart table, mapping fittings to, 76 iParts, preparing for publishing, 73

E
edit options, 96 edit orientation, 96 edit positions, 96 elbows, setting defaults, 22 engagements setting, 83 types, 78 Enter Route Environment tool, 14 environments, tube and pipe, 8 exercises backing up tutorial files, 4 prerequisites, 2

L
library database files adding, 72 configuring, 71 removing, 72 library, tube and pipe, 68 line extender, 35 List View tool, 70

F
female connectors, 78 files, backing up for exercises, 4 finished runs, adding to, 97 fittings adjusting orientation, 106 connection axes and points, 77 deleting, 103 dropping into tube and pipe assemblies, 88 editing orientation, 96 editing positions, 96 inserting in tube and pipe assemblies, 88

M
male connectors, 78 manual route node points changing to auto route, 101 manual routes, 49 material for fittings and pipes, 20 Max Engagement tool, 79 maximum engagement position (MaxEP), 78 setting, 83 minimum length violations, 98

110

Index

N
New Route tool, 32 nonlibrary components, placing, 68, 91

O
OD/ID for routes and runs, 21 offset routes, 55 orientation, editing for placed fittings, 96, 106 overviews 3D Orthogonal Route tool, 34 Autodesk Inventor Professional Tube and Pipe, 8 routes and runs, 32 styles, 23 tube and pipe library, 68

P
pipe routes, 44, 49, 55 pipes deleting, 103 publishing custom, 75 setting defaults, 22 setting diameters, 21 specifying default lengths, 21 style options, 20 piping runs .iam file, 28 Place Fitting tool, 68, 91 points editing positions, 96 snapping onto 3D Orthogonal Route tool, 41 points for routes, 34 Populate Route tool, 59 populating routes, 59 positions, editing, 96 precise values, setting, 42 prerequisites for exercises, 2 presentations tube and pipe, 15 publishing fittings, 73 Publishing Wizard, 73 connections, 75 part definition step, 79 publish step, 81 publishing, 79 starting, 75 Publishing Wizard dialog box, 74

restoring default fittings, 96 rigid pipe with fittings run type, 20 rotation arrows, 35 route direction options, 21 route node points changing associativity, 101 changing to auto route, 101 deleting, 103 inserting, 97 setting to update dynamically, 101 route node points in runs, 34 Route panel bar, 32, 95 Route tool, 32 routes, 32 adding to finished, 97 browser representations, 15 changing styles, 26 defining angular positions, 37, 39, 40 deleting, 103 design guidelines, 33 display settings, 14, 64 editing dynamically, 98, 100 inserting node points, 97 manual, 49 offset, 55 pipe, 44, 49, 55 populating, 59 semi automatic, 44 setting diameters, 21 start points, 33 tube, 60 routes, selecting alternate solutions, 44 Rules tab, 21 runs, 32 adding individual, 12 adding to finished, 97 browser representations, 15 changing styles, 26 converted from routes, 59 defining assembly, 11 deleting, 103 design guidelines, 33 display settings, 14, 64 inserting fittings, 88 inserting node points, 97 setting diameters, 21 subassemblies, 12 turning off fittings, 106 types, 20 workflow, 10

R
ratio engagement, 79 rendered displays, 64 repositioning fittings, 106 repositioning route components, 98

S
snapping points, 41 solid route mode display colors, 21 start points for routes, 33, 45 style list, 22

Index

111

styles, 23 adding to templates, 28 changing, 26 changing defaults, 27 custom, 23 deleting, 27 modifying, 25 options, 20 Styles dialog box, 19, 21 Created Segments tab, 21 Display tab, 21 Fittings tab, 22 General tab, 20 style list, 22 Styles tool, 18

T
templates assembly, 28 drawing, 16 tools Connection Axis, 77 Connection Point, 77 Icon View, 70 List View, 70 Max Engagement, 79 New Route, 32 Place Fitting, 68, 91 Populate Route, 59 Publishing Wizard, 73 Route, 32 Styles, 18 Work Axis, 77

tube and pipe application window, 9 browser, 14 defining runs subassemblies, 12 drawings, 15 environment, 8 features, 8 library, 68 presentations, 15 routes and runs overview, 32 runs assemblies, 11 styles, 18 using with add-on applications, 15, 95 workflows, 10 tube and pipe assemblies creating, 11 inserting fittings, 88 tube and pipe library, 68 browser, 69 configuring, 71 content listing, 70 navigating, 70 publishing fittings, 73 view modes, 70 Tube and Pipe Runs subassembly, 12, 28 tube routes, 60 modifying, 102 moving couplings, 105 tubing with bends run type, 20

W
Work Axis tool, 77 workflows, tube and pipe, 10

112

Index

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