equipment support structures page 1 equipment support

Equipment Support Structures

Preface

Using This Guide Where to Find More Information Conventions

What's New?

Getting Started

Setting Up Your Session Creating a Simple Structural Frame Creating Non-uniform Columns Creating Plates with Openings Bracing the Foundation Generating a BOM

User Tasks

Creating a Foundation Document Creating a Grid Creating Support Structures

Making Up a List of Sections Creating Members Creating Infills Creating Members on Supports Creating Plates Creating End Plates

Modifying, Joining & Moving Modifying Members Modifying Plates Joining Structures Splitting Structures Translating Components Rotating Components Manipulating Components

Exporting Wireframe Skeletons Generating BOMs Equipment Support Structure Package in Knowledge Expert Managing User Sections

Sketching Profiles for User Sections Defining Anchor Points for User Sections Creating & Completing Parametric Section Catalogs

Interoperability with CATIA V5 Producing Drawings using the Options Dialog Box

1Page Equipment Support Structures Version 5 Release 13

Producing Drawings Using Generative View Styles Creating Cutouts Creating Flanges Creating Assembly Constraints

Working with ENOVIA LCA: Optimal CATIA PLM Usability

Workbench Description

Design Toolbar Assembly Toolbar Specification Tree

Customizing Equipment Support Structures

Equipment Support Structures Structure Drawing

Glossary

Index


PrefaceVersion 5 Equipment Support Structures allows you to model equipment supports, including foundations, for all disciplines. It offers an easy-to-use and easy-to-learn graphic interface that lets you design equipment supports in context and take advantage of full associativity when creating and modifying supports. Small equipment supports are sized by design rules with often used supports taken from catalogs. Equipment supports are made of plate parts and profile parts.

This product addresses preliminary and detailed design requirements for equipment supports, machinery packages, gratings, and other miscellaneous supports including light legs and hangers of distributed systems, headers for small equipment as well as other small foundations.

As a scalable product, Equipment Support Structures can be used with other Version 5 products such as Part Design, Assembly Design, Sheetmetal Design, and Generative Drafting.

This guide offers a step-by-step scenario to get you acquainted with the product and provides information on all workbench commands.

Using This GuideWhere to Find More Information

Conventions


Using This GuideThis book is intended to help you become quickly familiar with Equipment Support Structures. You should already be accustomed with basic Version 5 concepts such as document windows, standard and view toolbars.

To get the most out of this guide, use the following user guide wizard. It will help you better locate information relevant to you as well as to the way you work.

User Guide Wizard

Go to:

I am a first time userThe Getting Started tutorial. Once you have finished, you should move on to the user task section of this guide.

I want to know more about:Creating foundations Creating a foundation documentCreating grids Creating a gridCreating support structures You can make up a list of sections, create members,

infills, members on supports, plates and end platesModifying, splitting, joining & moving structuresYou can modify members and plates, join structures,

split structures, translate, rotate and manipulate structures.

Exporting You can export wireframe skeletons and generate BOMs.

Interoperability with other V5 products You can sketch profiles for user sections, create cutouts, flanges and assembly constraints, and produce drawings.

Working with user sections You can sketch profiles for user sections, define anchor points and create & complete parametric section catalogs.

Integration with ENOVIA V5 Working with ENOVIA V5


Where to Find More InformationPrior to reading this book, we recommend that you read the Version 5 Infrastructure User's Guide.

The Part Design, Assembly Design, Sheetmetal Design and Generative Drafting User's Guides may also prove useful.

For information on VB macro capabilities, refer to the Automation Documentation.


ConventionsCertain conventions are used in CATIA, ENOVIA & DELMIA documentation to help you recognize and understand important concepts and specifications. The following text conventions may be used: The titles of CATIA documents appear in this manner throughout the text. File -> New identifies the commands to be used.

The use of the mouse differs according to the type of action you need to perform.

Use thismouse button, whenever you read

Select (menus, commands, geometry in graphics area, ...)Click (icons, dialog box buttons, tabs, selection of a location in the document window, ...)Double-clickShift-clickCtrl-clickCheck (check boxes)DragDrag and drop (icons onto objects, objects onto objects)

DragMove

Right-click (to select contextual menu)

Graphic conventions are denoted as follows:

indicates the estimated time to accomplish a task.

indicates a target of a task.

indicates the prerequisites.

indicates the scenario of a task.

indicates tips

indicates a warning.

indicates information.

indicates basic concepts.


indicates methodological information.

indicates reference information.

indicates information regarding settings, customization, etc.

indicates the end of a task.

indicates functionalities that are new or enhanced with this Release.Enhancements can also be identified by a blue-colored background in the left-hand margin or on the text itself.

indicates functionalities that are P1-specific.



allows you to switch back the full-window viewing mode.

These icons in the table of contents correspond to the entries or mode.

"Site Map".

"Split View" mode.

"What's New".

"Preface".

"Getting Started".

"Basic Tasks".

"User Tasks" or the "Advanced Tasks".

"Workbench Description".

"Customizing".

"Reference".

"Methodology".


"Glossary".

"Index".


What's New?

Enhanced Functionalities

Working with ENOVIA LCA: Optimal CATIA PLM UsabilityUsers now warned whether or not data created in CATIA V5 can be correctly saved in ENOVIA LCA


Getting Started

This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through your first Equipment Support Structures session, allowing you to get acquainted with the product.

You will need a Version 5 session and should be familiar with basic concepts such as document windows, standard and view toolbars.

You should be able to complete this tutorial in about 15 minutes.

The resulting foundation which consists of a braced-frame of beams and columns should look like this:


Setting Up Your SessionCreating a Simple Structural Frame

Creating Non-uniform ColumnsCreating Plates with Openings

Bracing the FoundationGenerating a BOM


Setting Up Your Session

This first task shows you how to enter the Equipment Support Structures workbench and set up your Version 5 session.

In this task, you will:

● Manage associativity

● Customize settings

● Typify your document as a a foundation document

● Create a grid defining the overall dimensions of your foundation.

1. Select Equipments & Systems -> Equipment Support Structures from the Start menu.

The Equipment Support Structures workbench is displayed.

2. Switch to Design Mode (Edit -> Representations).

Associativity

To ensure associativity between the structures you are going to create and the grid used as a construction aid, set the following options.

3. Select Tools -> Options from the menu bar.

4. Click Infrastructure -> Part Infrastructure in the left-hand box of the Options dialog box, then select the General tab.

5. Check Keep link with selected object and Synchronize all external references for update.

Equipment Support Structures Settings

You will now customize structure materials and specify paths giving you access to the sections you will use to create your foundation.

6. Click Equipments & Systems -> Equipment Support Structures in the left-hand box of the Options dialog box then select the Equipment Support Structures tab.

7. Set member and plate material to Steel.

8. To access available sections: ● Create a user folder to contain these sections, naming it Section for example

● Enter e:\Section in the Directory field under Section storage to identify the path to this folder.

9. Ensure that the path to the folder containing sample standard catalog sections in the Directory field under Catalogs storage is correctly set:install_folder/startup/components/StructuralCatalogs

For more information on the install folder, see the Infrastructure User's Guide.

10. Click OK in the Options dialog box when done.


Creating a Foundation Document

You must first typify your document as a foundation document.

11. Click the Foundation icon:

The Foundation Definition dialog box appears.

12. Identify your foundation document.

13.Click OK when done.

The document is characterized as a foundation document.

Creating a Grid

You will create a simple 3D grid defining the overall dimensions of your foundation.

14. Click the Grid icon.

The Grid Definition dialog box appears.


15. Enter a name for the grid you want to create in the Name box:

The grid will be identified by this name in the specification tree.

16. Specify Cartesian grid coordinates:

Enter the distance between grid points in Spacing boxes (1000 x 1000 x 750 mm respectively) as well as the number of points along x, y and z axes, 1 in each case.

17. Click OK to create the grid.

The grid is created and is identified in the specification tree.


Creating a Simple Structural Frame

This task shows you how to create and place the four beams and two of the four columns making up the structural frame of your foundation. But first, you will load the section you will use throughout the scenario.

1. Double-click the Member on Support icon.

The Member on Support dialog box appears.

Note that the Section field is blank: this is because there are as yet no available sections. You will load equal angle shape L3x3x0.25 from the AISC catalog. This is the shape that you will use for members throughout this scenario.

2. In the Section list, select Other section...

The Catalog Browser dialog box is displayed.

The current catalog is the correct catalog.

● Browse the list of families and double-click Equal_Angles (equal leg angle shapes):

All the shapes in this family are listed.


● Browse the listed shapes, then click L3x3x0.25 to preview it.

● Click OK.

The Section list in the Member on Support dialog box is updated.


3. Set Type to Beam.

4. Set the anchor point, anchoring the section along the support axis, to Bottom left.

5. Define the member support: select one of the grid lines.

Note: You are using the grid to assist you create your foundation.

A preview guides you.

Notice that the section is not correctly oriented around its anchor point.


6. Set Orientation to 270 degrees, then click OK in the dialog box to create the member.

The dialog box appears again, ready for you to create the other beams.

7. Create the other three beams in the same way, taking care to orient them properly.


You are now ready to create the two straight columns.

8. Change the Type to Column and set the Anchor point to Bottom right, then select one of the vertical support lines.

First column characteristics:

● Anchor point: Bottom right

● Orientation: 180 degrees

Do not forget to check section orientation before clicking OK!

Right-clicking the member in the specification tree gives you access to the contextual menu and lets you make any necessary adjustments to the definition of your member.

9. Create second column in the same way.


Second column characteristics:

● Anchor point: Top right


10. Click the Member on Support icon when done.

You will now finish this part of the scenario by moving the first column you created. As it references a grid element, it is linked to the grid and must be isolated before you can move it.

11. Right-click the column in the specification tree and select Components ->Isolate Part from the contextual menu.

Note: You may need to update the member locally.

12. Click the Translation or Rotation icon and stay in the Translation tab in the

Move dialog box that appears.

13. Select the member you want to translate: the first column created.

14. Enter -150 mm in the Offset Y, then click Apply in the Translation tab.

The column is moved the distance specified along the Y axis.


15. Click OK when done.


Creating Non-uniform Columns

This task shows you how to create and place the two remaining columns.

Each column comprises three parts grouped together under a new component. You will create one of the columns, then copy and paste it to create the other column.

1. Insert a new component (Insert -> New Component).

2. Double-click the new component to make it current and have members created under it.

3. Double-click the Member icon.

The Member Definition and Point Definition dialog boxes appear.

4. Close the Point Definition dialog box.

5. Keep the default options defining type and section.

6. Set Anchor point to Bottom left.

7. Set Direction to Parallel to Z (Direction box list).

8. Check the Length box and enter 150 mm.

9. Select the start point of your column.


10. Adjust Orientation to 270 degrees and indicate in the geometry area to define the direction.

11. Repeat to create the bottom part, 300 mm in length.

12. Click the Member icon again when done.

13. Isolate the bottom member in order to be able to move it: right-click the member and select Components -> Isolate Part from the contextual menu.

14. Using the 3D compass, move it -100 mm along the X axis.

To facilitate use of the 3D compass, you may need to place the grid in the No Show space.

● Right-click the compass and select Snap Automatically to Selected Object then select the member.The member is highlighted in the geometry area and the compass positions itself on the member.

● Right-click the compass again and select Edit.The Compass Manipulation dialog box appears giving the position of the selected member.


● Change the X coordinates to 900mm and click Apply new position to preview the result, then click Close in the dialog box.The member is moved as specified.

● Restore the 3D compass to its original position (View->Reset Compass).

You are now ready to create the middle section. Selection is easier with the grid in the No Show space.

15. Click the Member icon.

16. In the Member Definition dialog box, uncheck Length and set Direction to Unspecified.

17. Select the vertex point on the member you have just moved as the start point.

Notice that the orientation is incorrect.


18. Adjust the orientation.

19. Select the vertex point on the top member as end point.

The middle part is created.


You will define how ends of members are cut before copying the non-uniform column.

Defining joints can also be done later when the entire frame has been created. In this case, define miter cuts on the original column and they will be propagated to the copy. An update, however, is necessary.

20. Double-click the Joint icon.

The Joint Definition dialog box appears.

21. Set Type to Miter cut.

22. Select the member to trim: one of the members.

23. Select the member to which you want it trimmed: an adjacent member.

24. Click OK to create the miter cut.

25. Repeat for the other joint.


26. Click the Joint icon again to exit the command.

You are now ready to copy the column.

27. Right-click the new component in the specification tree and select Copy from the contextual menu.

28. Right-click the product under which you want to paste the component in the specification tree, i.e. the root product, and select Paste from the contextual menu.


The component and all three parts are copied at the same location as the original. You will now simply move the component to its new position.

28. Move the component just created to its correct location: ● Double-click the root product

● Select the Translation or Rotation icon

● Select the component just created using Copy / Paste

● In the Move dialog box, translate the component -800 mm along the Y axis, click Apply to see the result and then OK when satisfied.


Creating Plates with Openings

This task shows you how to create and place two plates. Plates are positioned with respect to existing structures.

Plate contours and openings are sketched: the Plate command lets you access the Sketcher workbench directly.

First, however, you must define the planes on which you will create the plates. This is done in the Part Design workbench.

1. Switch to the Part Design workbench: ● Select the root product.

● Select Start -> Mechanical Design -> Part Design.

2. Select View -> Toolbars -> Reference Elements (Extended) to display the toolbar containing the Plane command.

3. Double-click the Plane icon.

The Plane Definition dialog box appears.

4. Set Plane type to Through two lines.

5. Select an edge on the first column.

6. Select an edge on the second column, then click OK in the dialog box.

The first plane is created.


7. Define the other plane you need.

8. Click the Plane icon again when done.

9. Double-click the root product to return to the Equipment Support Structures workbench.

10. Click the Plate icon.

The Plate Definition dialog box appears.

11. Select one of the planes you have just created as the support plane for the plate.

12. Enter a plate thickness of 10 mm.

13. Click the Sketcher icon in the Plane Definition dialog box to sketch the plate contour and opening.

The Sketcher workbench opens.

14. Click the Rectangle icon and sketch the plate

contour.

15. Click the Ellipse icon and sketch the contour

for the opening in the plate.


16. Click the Exit Workbench icon when done.

You return to the Structure Foundations Design workbench and the system previews the plate and opening.

17. Click OK in the Plate Definition dialog box to create the plate.

18. Repeat to create the second plate.

Your foundation now looks like this:


Bracing the Foundation

This task shows you how to add a brace to complete your foundation. The brace is positioned with respect to existing structures.

1. Double-click the Member icon.

The Linear Definition dialog box appears.

2. Define brace characteristics: ● Set Type to H-Brace.

● Set Anchor point to Top left.

● Set Orientation to 270 degrees.

3. Set Direction to Parallel to YZ plane to create the brace in this plane.

Start and end points will be defined by creating points on existing members. You may need to restore the Point Definition dialog box.

4. Define the start point:● In Point Definition dialog box, click Point on member.

The dialog box expands to include an Offset field.

● Select bottom end of the member from which you want to start the brace.Selecting the bottom end computes the offset from this end.

● Enter an offset of 200 mm in the dialog box.

● Click OK when satisfied.


5. Check, and adjust if necessary, section orientation.

Right-clicking the member in the specification tree gives you access to the contextual menu and lets you make any necessary adjustments to the orientation and anchor point of your member.

6. Define the end point: ● In Point Definition dialog box, click Point on member.

● Select the top end of the member at which to end the brace.Selecting the top end computes the offset from this end.

● Enter an offset of 200 mm.

● Click OK when satisfied.


The brace is created and your foundation looks like this:

Notice that brace ends are not neatly finished.

7. Click the Member icon again when done.


Defining How Member Ends are Cut

All that is left now is to define how brace ends are to be cut.

8. Double-click the Joint icon.


9. Set Type to Weld cut.

10. Select the member you want to trim: one of the braces.

11. Select the member to which you want it trimmed: one of the uniform columns, then click OK.

The brace is trimmed to the column.


12. Repeat to trim the brace to the column at the other end, and click OK.

The brace is trimmed nicely at both ends. The specification tree is updated to include cutback information.

13. Click the Joint icon again when done.


Generating a BOM

This task shows you how to generate a bill of materials in the form of an Excel report from your model.

The macro SectionQuantityList.CATScript that we will use to generate the BOM is delivered in the /install_folder/code/command folder.

For more information on the installation folder, see the Infrastructure User's Guide.

1. Make a multiple selection of all the structures in your document.

2. Select Tools->Macro->Macros...

The Macro dialog box appears.

3. Select the macro: ● Set Macro in to External File

● Click Select in the dialog box

● Navigate in the Select External File dialog box and select the CATScript.

The CATScript is listed in the Macro dialog box.

4. Select the macro in the Macro dialog box and click Run to run it.

An Excel spreadsheet opens and the bill of material is generated. It looks like this:


User TasksCreating a Foundation Document

Creating a GridCreating Support StructuresModifying, Joining & Moving

Exporting Wireframe SkeletonsGenerating BOMs

Equipment Support Structure Package in Knowledge ExpertManaging User Sections

Interoperability with CATIA V5Working with ENOVIA LCA: Optimal CATIA PLM Usability


Creating a Foundation Document

This task shows you how to typify your document as a foundation document.

1. Select Equipments & Systems ->Equipment Support Structures from the Start menu.

The Equipment Support Structures workbench is displayed.

2. Click the Foundation icon:

The Foundation Definition dialog box appears.

3. Identify your foundation.

4.Click OK when done.

The document is characterized as a foundation document.

You can now create your structures. If desired, you can create a grid to help you.

Are you working with ENOVIA V5?

If yes, it is important to read the Working in ENOVIA V5 section before starting, in order to be fully integrated with ENOVIA V5


Creating a Grid

Using grids lets you position structures more easily as well as design in context. You can create structures referencing geometrical grid elements. Design changes can then be introduced by modifying the grid and updating the structure in consequence.

This task shows how to create a new grid that you can then use as a construction aid to create members.

A grid is made of wireframe elements (lines, points and planes) and is identified in the specification tree. It can be created using either the Cartesian or Polar coordinate system.

1. Click the Grid icon.

The Grid Definition dialog box appears.

2. Enter a name for the grid you want to create in the Name box:

The grid will be identified by this name in the specification tree.

3. Select Relative or Absolute in the Mode list to define the grid construction mode. ● In the absolute mode, grid planes are positioned with respect to the grid origin. Planes can be repositioned

independently of one another.

● In the relative mode, grid planes are positioned with respect to each other. Moving a plane impacts other planes offset from that plane. This is the default mode.


4. Enter absolute coordinates in the Origin box or select a point in the geometry area to define the grid origin.

If you select a point, the point is identified in the dialog box. The grid origin is now linked to this point.

5. In the First direction in XY plane box: ● In the Cartesian tab, enter H and V coordinates to define the local x-axis.

Or,

● Click the Polar tab and enter an angle to define the polar axis.Or,

● Select a line in the geometry area.

Note: By default, the local x-axis is positioned along the absolute x-axis.

If you select a line, the line is identified in the dialog box. The first direction is now linked to this line.

6. Specify grid coordinates: ● In the Cartesian tab, specify the distance between grid points and number of points along x, y and z axes.

Or,In the Polar tab, specify the radius, amplitude and spacing along the z-axis as well as the number of grid points in each case.

Note: Clicking More expands the dialog box and lets you enter up to three more different combinations to define your grid.


7. Click OK to create the grid.

The grid is created and is identified in the specification tree.

Grid planes are associative: moving a plane will update the grid.

This is useful when modifying a structure: move a plane (double-click to edit) and see the structure defined using the grid updated when you double-click the root product in the specification tree if the following options were set in the General tab in the Options dialog box (Tools -> Options, Infrastructure -> Part Infrastructure):

● Keep link with selected object

● Synchronize all external references for update.


Creating Support StructuresEquipment Support Structures allows you to design structure assemblies from linear and curved members and plates.

Associativity

To ensure associativity between the supports you create and any underlying wireframe geometry used as construction geometry, you must check the following options before creating supports:


● Synchronize all external references for update

These options are to be foundi n the General tab of the Options dialog box (Tools -> Options..., Infrastructure -> Part Infrastructure).

Settings

Do not forget to define settings for access to standard catalog sections and available sections (Tools -> Options..., Equipment & Systems -> Equipment Support Structures).

Design Mode

Do not forget to switch to Design Mode (Edit -> Representations) to create supports.

Double-clicking Commands

Double-clicking commands keeps dialog boxes open and lets you create more than one structure at any one time.

Make up a list of sections: Double-click the Section icon and select sections you need from the Catalog browser.Create members: Set parameters in the Member Definition dialog box then define where the member starts and ends.Create infills: Set parameters in the Infill dialog box then select the two structures between which you want to create infills.Create members on supports:Set parameters in the Member on Support dialog box then select the support.Create plates: Set parameters in the Plate Definition dialog box, select a support then define the contour of the plate.Create end plates: Set parameters in the End Plate Definition dialog box, select the end of the structure at which you want to place the end plate.


Making Up a List of Sections

Sections used to create structures can be: ● Standard catalog sections

Samples of standard catalogs are supplied with the product. Sections in these catalogs are parametric sketches associated with design tables (CSV-type Excel files).

● User-defined sections.

Before you start working, make up a list of the catalog and/or user sections you will need. Sections are saved in a resolved folder defined in your settings. Catalog and user sections can then be accessed directly via the Section list of the appropriate dialog box.

This task shows how to make up a list of standard catalog and user sections suited to your needs.

No sample document is provided.

Standard Catalog Sections1. Double-click

the Section

icon.

The Catalogs Browser dialog box opens letting you browse and preview the contents of the current catalog.


2. Click the Browse another

catalog icon to open the File Selection dialog box and choose another catalog.

3. Select the OTUA catalog for example and click Open.

4. Browse the list of families in the Catalog Browser dialog box and double-click the family of interest, for example IPE.


5. Browse the list of shapes and select the section of interest, for example IPE200, then click OK in the dialog box.

For information on options in the Catalog Browser, see Using Catalogs in the Infrastructure User's Guide.

6. Repeat until you have selected all catalog sections you are likely to need.

Copies of the sections are added to the resolved folder defined in your settings (see the Customizing section of your guide).

In Structure Functional Design, the location of this folder can also be managed as a project resource.

The Other Section... option in the Section list of the appropriate dialog box also gives you access to the catalog browser.

User-defined Sections

User-defined sections are of two types:

● Parametric sections stored in a user catalog and accessed in the same way as standard catalog sections.

● Resolved sections saved directly in the resolved folder containing the list of sections.

Both types of section can be created using the Sketcher. For more information on sketcher capabilities, see the Sketcher User's Guide.

1. To make up a list of user sections:

Double-click the Section icon and proceed as above for standard catalog sections.

Or,

Save resolved sections directly in the resolved folder defined in your settings (see the Customizing section of your guide).


Creating Members

This task shows how to create linear members.


1. Click the Member icon.

The Linear Member Definition and Point Definition dialog boxes appear.

Note: Double-click the icon to keep the dialog box and create more than one member.

2. In the Type list, select the type of member you want to create: ● Column

● Beam

● H-Brace

● V-Brace.

You can define custom member types using the Tools -> Option command.

3. In the Section list, select the shape you want to use. Click: ● One of the available section names, or

● Other section... to access catalog sections not already listed.

The first time you enter the workbench, you must initialize the section list with catalog and/or user sections.

Right-click in the dialog box box and select Section properties from the contextual menu to view geometrical and mechanical properties of the selected section.

The Section Properties dialog box appears:


Select the Mechanical Properties tab:

4. In the preview or in the Anchor point list, select the desired point at which to anchor the section along the support axis.

Note: Since the section selected is symmetrical, gravity anchor points coincide with standard anchor points.

The illustration to the right shows standard and gravity anchor points for a channel shape section.

5. In the Orientation box, use the arrows to change the angular dimension value and orient the section around its anchor point:

The Orientation field is updated in 90 degree increments by default. Right-click in this field to change the step.

In the illustrations below, the anchor point is top left.


Right-click in the Orientation field to change the orientation step or range:

6. In the Direction list, select how you want to place the member.

You can place members using points, a plane or an axis.

Unspecified Planes and Lines

● When placing parallel to or on an unspecified plane, click the Direction box and select a plane before defining the member limits.The member is placed parallel to or projected onto the plane.

● When placing parallel to an unspecified line, click the Direction box and select a line before defining the member limits.

Specifying an Offset to XY, YZ or XZ Plane

Specifying an offset is particularly useful when creating members between two existing structures. The offset is computed along the normal to the defined plane.

● Click the Offset checkbox and enter a value or use the arrows to change the value in the Offset field. You can enter a positive or a negative value.

● Select wireframe elements or two existing structures.

This option is only available when the selected direction is parallel to the XY, YZ or XZ plane.

7. Define the limits of the member you want to create:

You can define the start and end limits of a member in a variety of different ways, by

● Entering coordinates

● Selecting wireframe elements

● Selecting points created in the Sketcher workbench


● Selecting the end of an existing structure:

The member starts or ends at the end point of the support axis of the selected structure.

● Selecting one of the vertices of a section

● Creating a point on an existing structure using the Point on member option in the Point Definition dialog box

● Specifying a length

Entering Coordinates

● Enter point coordinates in the Point Definition dialog box or in the power input field in the status bar.You can combine coordinates and selection of wireframe elements when defining start and end points for members.

Selecting Wireframe Elements

Wireframe elements are useful construction aids. To create a construction grid, see Creating a Grid.

● Select a wireframe element in the geometry area.You can combine coordinates and selection of wireframe elements when defining start and end points for members.

Creating a Point on an Existing Structure

● Click Point on member in the Point Definition dialog box.

● Select the end of an existing structure: the offset is defined from the selected end.

● Enter an offset in the dialog box or slide the offset handler.

● Click OK.


Specifying a Length

● Enter point coordinates or select a wireframe element to define the start point.

● Click the Length checkbox and enter a value or use the arrows to change the value in the Length field.

● Indicate in the geometry area to identify the direction.

A preview of the member guides you as you create. Any changes in the member definition are immediately reflected in the preview.

● Parallel to the z-axis; moving cursor in negative direction

● Anchor point: Bottom left

● Default orientation.

● Parallel to the z-axis; moving cursor in positive direction

● Anchor point: Center


The member is created and has the characteristics defined in the Member Definition dialog box.

The linear member is added to the specification tree.

● To modify a member, right-click it in the specification tree and select the appropriate command from the contextual menu.

● You can translate, rotate and manipulate members.


Creating Infills

This task shows how to create infills between two members.


1. Click the Infill icon.

The Infill Definition dialog box appears.

2. In the Type list, select the type of infill you want to create: ● Column

● Beam

● H-Brace

● V-Brace





Right-click in the dialog box and select Section properties from the contextual menu to view geometrical and mechanical properties of the selected section.


The Section Properties dialog box appears:


4. In the preview or in the Anchor point list, select the desired point to anchor the section along the support axis.








6. Specify the number of infills you want to place in the Number box by scrolling to a new value with the up and down arrows.

7. (Optional) Define a support plane: ● Click the Support box and select a wireframe plane or a planar face of an existing element.

If no support is defined, infills are created in the plane defined by the selected structures.

8. In the Position box, select ● Relative to position infill sections with respect to the plane defined by the selected structures

Or,

● Absolute to take infill section orientation into account.

Relative Absolute

9. (Optional) In the Offset box, set an offset with respect to the plane in which the infills will be created.

10. Select the first structure (reference 1).


11. Select the second structure (reference 2).

The point at which you select structures is important. The system determines the end nearest this point and computes infill spacing along the selected structure from this end.

A preview guides you as you create. Any changes in the infill definition are immediately reflected in the preview.

Options in the Spacing boxes let you define the distances between infills as well as between infills and the ends of selected structures.

12. Specify infill spacing:

To have infills placed at equal distances along structure 1:

● In the Mode box, select Equal.

To specify infill position and spacing with respect to the first structure (reference 1):

● In the Mode box, select Defined

● In the D1 box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to specify the distance from the end of the structure to the first infill

● In the D2 box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to specify the distance between infills

● In the D3 box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to specify the distance from the last infill to the other end of the structure.

Note: In the Defined mode, you must enter distances D1 and D2. Distance D3 is generally deduced by the system.

To define infill position and spacing with respect to the second structure (reference 2): In the Mode box, select the appropriate option:

● Equal: infills are placed at equal distances along structure 2

● Perpendicular to 1: infills are placed perpendicular to structure 1

● Perpendicular to 2: infills are placed perpendicular to structure 2

● Same as 1: D1 and D3 distances are applied when placing infills along structure 2.


Use the Same as 1 option when structures are not parallel to keep the same distances between infills and the ends of structures.

13. When satisfied, click OK to create the infills.

Infills are created and have the characteristics defined in the Infill Definition dialog box.

Infills are added to the specification tree.

● To modify infills, right-click in the specification tree and select the appropriate command from the contextual menu.

● You can translate, rotate and manipulate infills.


Creating Members on Supports

This task shows how to route straight and curved members along an existing support. The member can be trimmed to planes, intersection elements or faces of existing structures selected as limits.

This command is particularly useful when creating curved members.

Open the MemberOnSupport.CATProduct document.

1. Click the Member on Support icon.

The Member on Support dialog box appears.

2. In the Type list, select the type of member you want to create: ● Column

● Beam

● H-Brace

● V-Brace.





Right-click in the dialog box and select Section properties from the contextual menu to view geometrical and mechanical properties of the selected section.

The Section properties dialog box appears:



4. In the preview or in the Anchor point list, select the desired point to anchor the section along the support axis.








6. Select a support curve or line:

Note: Multi-selection of supports is available.

To visualize selected supports, click the List icon or right-click in the Support field and select Elements list

from the contextual menu. The Elements list dialog box opens showing selected supports.

Support curves or lines are wireframe elements created using the Grid command or the V5 Wireframe and Surface Design product. Note: You cannot select elements of a sketch.

The member will be routed along the selected support(s).

A preview guides you as you create. Any changes in member definition are immediately reflected in the preview.

Arrows identify the direction along which a positive offset is calculated.

Right-click in the geometry area to access the contextual menu allowing you to specify the number of sections previewed.

7. To orient the section with respect to a reference curve or surface, click the Reference box and select the desired curve or surface.

Specifying a reference lets you create twisted members.

8. Select the first limit to which you want to trim the member

9. Select the second limit.

10. (Optional) In the Offset box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to offset limit 1 or limit 2 by the specified distance.


Limits can be planes, intersection elements or the faces of existing structures.

11. Click OK to create the curved member.

The member is created and has the characteristics defined in the Member on Support dialog box.

The curved member is added to the specification tree.

● To modify a member, right-click it in the specification tree and select the appropriate command from the contextual menu.

● You can translate, rotate and manipulate members.


Creating Plates

This task shows how to create different types of plate, except end plates.

Open the CreatingPlates.CATProduct document.

The sample documents looks like this:

1. Click the Plate icon.

The Plate Definition dialog box appears.

2. In the Type list, select the desired type of plate.

You can define custom plate types using the Tools -> Option command.

3. In the Thickness box, use the arrows to change the thickness value or enter a value directly in the box.

Plate thickness can be managed via design tables. A sample table in text format is supplied with the product. If the user defines the path to the sample table, only pre-defined thicknesses from the table can be selected.

To gain access to the sample table, define the path in your settings (Tools-> Options, Equipment & Systems, Equipment Support Structures tab).


● Click the Design table icon in the Plate

Definition dialog box.

The Design Table dialog box appears.

● Select the desired thickness, then click OK.

If you change the thickness in the design table, all plates of this thickness linked to the design table will be updated to the new value.

You can modify or add to the sample table, or, if needed, create a new table. The thickness table is a simple text file.

4. Select a support:

The support can be a plane or the face of an existing structure.

5. In the Offset box, use the arrows to change the distance value or enter a value directly in the box to create the plate parallel to the support, offset by the specified distance.

6. Define the contour of your plate: ● Click the Sketcher icon to open the Sketcher workbench

● Sketch the plate contour in the support plane

● Exit the sketcher.

For more information on the Sketcher, see the Sketcher User's Guide.

A sketch must not contain more than one external plate contour. You can, however, sketch one external and several internal contours in the same sketch.


The plate is created. You can now make any on-the-fly modifications and see them reflected in the preview.

Or, ● Select points, lines or edges in the document to

define the plate contour.

An arrow normal to the support and identifying the direction of extrusion is displayed. As you select elements, a preview appears to guide you. Elements you select are projected onto the support plane.

● Click Apply or double-click to create the plate.

7. Select the arrow or click the Reverse direction option in the dialog box to extend the plate in the opposite direction from that shown.

8. Adjust the plate thickness.

9. Click Apply when satisfied.

You can also modify the shape of your plate and for example create a corner using the Sketcher.



The plate is created and has the characteristics defined in the Plate Definition dialog box.

The plate is added to the specification tree.

11. Create another structure between the two plates using a plate face as support.

Your structure now looks like this:


● To redefine a plate, right-click it in the specification tree and select Definition from the contextual menu.

● You can translate, rotate and manipulate plates.


Creating End Plates

This task shows how to create a special type of plate called an end plate.

Click here to find out how to create other types of plate.


1. Click the End-Plate icon.

The End Plate Definition dialog box appears.

2. In the Type list, select the desired type of plate.

3. Define the length, width and thickness of the plate using arrows to change the values or entering values directly in boxes.

The length and width are defined with respect to the local axis system of the structure, for example, in the case of an I shape, the width is defined along the x-axis parallel to the flange and the length along the y-axis parallel to the web.

4. Select the end of the structure at which you want to place the end plate:

A preview appears. An arrow identifies the direction of extrusion.

● To reverse the direction of extrusion, click the arrow or click Reverse direction in the dialog box.

● You can adjust all plate characteristics in the dialog box, then click Apply to preview the results.


5. Click OK when satisfied.

The end plate is created as defined and is added to the specification tree.

Creating Several End Plates by Multiple Selection

Simply Cntrl-click to select more than one structure end and have several end plates created in one go.

Changing the direction of extrusion or other plate characteristics applies to all end plates.


Modifying, Joining & Moving Modify members: Right-click the member in the specification tree and select the desired type

of modification, then make appropriate changes. Modify plates: Right-click the plate in the specification tree and select Definition from the

contextual menu, then make appropriate changes.Join structures: Select the cut in the Joint Definition dialog box, specify an offset, then select members.Split structures: Select the structure to split, then the splitting element.

Translate structures: Select a structure and enter offset values in the Move dialog box.

Rotate structures: Select a structure, choose the axis of rotation and enter an angle in the Move dialog box.Manipulate structures: Define the move in the Manipulation Parameters dialog box, select a structure and drag.Important: Translation or Rotation and Manipulation commands are for unconstrained structures, i.e. structures to which no geometric nor assembly constraints have been set.


Modifying Members

You can:● Modify the type, section, anchor point and orientation of members (Definition).

● Add a positive or negative offset at member ends (Extend).

● Stretch unconstrained linear members (Stretch).

● Flip the section (Flip).

All modifications are done via the contextual menu on structures selected in the specification tree. Note: You cannot select structures you want to modify in the geometry area.

This task shows how to modify members.


1. Right-click the member you want to modify and select the type of modification you want to make from the contextual menu.

If you have created a large number of structures, right-click the structure of interest in the geometry area then select the Center Graph command to find your structure in the specification tree.

Modifying Member Definition using Multiple Selection

You can modify the definition of several members in one go by Cntrl-clicking members in the specification tree.

Note: Extend, Stretch and Flip commands are not available if a multiple selection is made.

2. Make the required modification.

● Definition: make your selection(s) in the Definition dialog box that appears and click OK when done.


● Extend: the Limits Definition dialog appears. Set new values in offset boxes and/or select a new limit where appropriate then click OK when done.

For structures created by specifying a length, you can also modify the length value.


● Stretch: a graphic manipulator is displayed letting you stretch the unconstrained linear member along the main axes of the section. Stretch your structure and click OK in the Point Definition dialog box when done.

Important: This command is only available for unconstrained linear members, i.e. those created by entering coordinates or with the Keep link with selected object option de-activated).

● Flip: select this command to flip an asymmetric section.


Modifying Plates

You can modify the definition of both plates and end plates.

All modifications are done via the contextual menu on structures selected in the specification tree. Note: You cannot select structures you want to modify in the geometry area.

This task shows how to change plate characteristics.


1. Right-click the plate you want to modify and select Definition from the contextual menu.

If you have created a large number of structures, right-click the structure of interest in the geometry area then select the Center Graph command to find your structure in the specification tree.

Modifying Plate Definition using Multiple Selection

You can modify the definition of several plates in one go by Cntrl-clicking plates in the specification tree. This capability is not available for end plates.

Note: Plate contours can only modified one by one.

2. Make the required modification in the Definition dialog box that appears and click OK when done.

If you selected a plate:

If you selected an end plate:


The table below summarizes what you can modify:

Plates End plates

Multiple selection Yes, but plate contours can only be modified singly

No

Type Yes Yes

Thickness Yes Yes

Offset Yes No

Contour Yes Length & width

Direction of extrusion

Yes Yes


Joining Structures

Joints define how member ends are cut and are associative. If you modify the member, the joint is automatically recomputed.

This task shows how to specify the type of joint between members.


1. Click the Joint icon.


2. In the Type list, select the desired type, for example Normal cut.

Types available are: ● None: no cut.

This option lets you remove a previously applied cut.

● Weld cut: a cutting plane is used to cut the member you want to trim.

● Miter cut: members are perpendicular with ends cut at an angle.

● Normal cut: ends of members are cut perpendicular to the support axis.

● Trim to plane: the selected member is trimmed to a plane.

The trimming plane can be a plane, face, surface, plate or another member.


● Remove: material is removed

from the member you want to trim to accommodate the other member.

The result differs depending on the first member selected.

3. In the Offset box, use the arrows to change the offset value or enter a value directly in the box to offset the member you want to trim from the trimming member.

4. Select the member you want to trim.

5. Select the member serving as limit (trimming member) or, for the Trim to plane option, a plane, face, surface, plate or shape.

It is important to select members in the correct order.

6. Click Apply to create the cut.

Members are cut back as specified in the dialog box and the joint is identified in the specification tree.

Curved Members

Curved members cannot be trimmed because the cutting plane may intersect the curve at more than one location.


Normal & Weld Cuts

To apply normal or weld cuts to all member ends in the following configuration:

● Join members 1 & 2, 2 & 3 and 3 & 4 using normal or weld cuts.

● When joining members 4 & 1, select member 1 as the member to trim.Note: The cut cannot be made if member 4 is selected as the member to trim.


Miter Cut

You cannot apply a miter cut to a member that is already mitered.

If the member (member1) you want to cut is already mitered:

● Remove the cut using None

● Apply a miter cut to members 1 and 3.


Note: You can apply a normal or weld cut to a member that is already mitered.


Splitting Structures

This task shows you how to split intersecting structures.

1.Click the Split icon.

The Split Definition dialog box appears.

2. Select the structure you want to split.

3. Select the splitting element:

The splitting element can be another structure, a line, a point or a plane.

● If a line or plane are chosen, the split is made at the intersection with the support axis of the structure you want to split.

● If a point is chosen, the point is mapped onto the support axis of the structure you want to split.


The structure is split into two and a new entry added to the specification tree.


Associativity

Split structures are associative, i.e. if you adjust the grid used to define the structures and update, the structures are updated too.


The new structure inherits the same properties (anchor point, material, orientation, etc.) as the original structure you split.


Translating Components

This task will show you two ways to translate a component:

by entering translation values

by selecting geometrical elements to define a translation direction.

If you are working in Assembly Design workbench, this task is P1-only.

Using P2 configuration, you can rotate constrained components by means of the Shift key and the compass.

The element to be translated must belong to the active component.

The option "Automatic switch to Design mode" is available for this command. For more about this option, refer to Access to geometry in the Infrastructure User's Guide.

Open the MovingComponents01.CATProduct document.

1. Click the Translate or Rotation icon:

The Move dialog box is displayed. Either you specify an offset value between the element and x, y or z axis, or you select a geometric element to define the direction you need.


2. Select the component to be translated, that is CRIC_BRANCH_3.

By Entering Values

3. Enter 50 mm as the offset value, in the Offset X field. The component will be

translated along x axis.

4. Click Apply.

The selected component is translated accordingly.


5. Click the Invert button to reverse the previous operation and translate the

component in the opposite direction.

The component is translated in the opposite direction. You can click Apply as many times as you wish to translate the component to the desired position.

6. Click OK to close the dialog box.

7. Repeat steps 1 and 2.

By Selecting Geometric Elements

8. Click the Selection button to define a new translation with respect to a geometric

element.

The Translation tab contents is grayed out. If you select a line or a plane you need to enter a distance value. The translation is then done along the selected line or normal to the selected plane. Selecting two faces or planes assumes these elements are parallel.

9. Select the red and blue faces as shown. These faces are parallel.


The application computes the distance between these faces.The Offset field then displays this distance value:

Offset X: 20mm

Offset Y: 0mm

Offset Z: 0mm

10. Click Apply to translate the blue component.

You can apply this translation to any other components. You just need to select it and click the Apply button.

11. Click OK to exit.


Rotating Components

This task will show you the two ways of rotating a component:

by entering the rotation angle and specifying the rotation axis

by selecting a geometric element as the rotation axis and entering the angle value

If you are working in Assembly Design workbench, this task is P1-only.

Using P2 configuration, you can rotate constrained components by means of the Shift key and the compass.

The element to be rotated must belong to the active component.

The option "Automatic switch to Design mode" is available for this command. For more about this option, refer to Access to geometry in the Infrastructure User's Guide.

Open the MovingComponents01.CATProduct document.

1. Click the Translate or Rotation icon:

The Move dialog box is displayed. Translation options are available. To find out how to translate components, refer to Translating a Component.

2. Click the Rotation tab.


3. Select the component you wish to rotate, that is CRIC_BRANCH_1.

Entering a Rotation Angle

4. For example, check the Axis Y option to specify the axis of rotation.

5. Enter 90 as the angle value in the Angle field.

The selected component is rotated accordingly.

7. Click OK to close the dialog box.


8. Repeat steps 1, 2 and 3.

Selecting Geometry to Define the Axis of Rotation

9. Click the Selection button to define a new rotation with respect to a geometrical

element.

10. Select the edge as shown to specify the new rotation axis.

11. Enter 90 in the Angle field.

12. Click Apply to rotate the red component.


You can apply this rotation to any other components. You just need to select it and click the Apply button.



Manipulating Components

This task will show you how to manipulate a component. The Manipulate command lets you move a component freehand with the mouse. It is less constraining than the Translate and Rotate commands.

The element to be manipulated must belong to the active component.

Open the MovingComponents02.CATProductdocument.

1. Click the Manipulate icon:

The Manipulation Parameters dialog box appears. You can translate or rotate components using one of the following options:

The first and second horizontal rows are reserved for translations. You can move your component along the x, y or z-axis as well as in the xy, yz and xz planes.

The third row is reserved for rotations. You can rotate your component around the x, y or z-axis.

The fourth column lets you specify the direction of your choice by selecting a geometric element. This element defines the direction of the move or the axis of rotation.

2. Click the Drag along Y axis icon:

3. Select Set1 as the component to be translated.


4. Drag Set1.

The component is translated in the Y axis direction.

5. Now select CRIC_FRAME and click Drag around Y axis icon:

6. Drag the component. You are rotating it around the Y axis.


7. Check the option With respect to constraints. If you repeat the previous operation, you will notice

that you are not allowed to do it. The existing parallelism constraint prevents you from moving the

component.


Use the Shift key and the compass to manipulate constrained components.

Flexible components cannot be moved via the Manipulate command.


Exporting Wireframe Skeletons

This task shows you how to export simplified wireframe geometry (the skeleton and section) of your structures. Two formats are proposed:

● STEP AP203 (only if you have the appropriate license)

● CATPart.

1. Click the Export icon.

The Save As dialog box appears.

2. Click the Save as type list and select the desired format.

You can save the simplified wireframe geometry as: ● a V5 CATPart (.CATPart). The CATPart is added to the original document.

● a STEP AP203 document (.stp) if you have the appropriate license.

If you don't have a STEP AP203 license, then this format is not proposed and you can only save the skeleton as a CATPart document.

3. For STEP documents, specify the location of the document to be saved and, if necessary, enter a file name.

4.Click Save to save the skeleton in a file in the desired format.


The STEP format lets you exchange data with other CAD systems to, for example, perform FEM analysis.


Generating BOMsYou can generate Bills of Materials (BOMs) in the form of Excel reports or CSV files.

This task shows how to use a sample macro to generate a BOM in the form of an Excel report. You can in this way obtain critical design information.

The sample macro SectionQuantityList.CATScript is available in the /install_folder/code/command folder. For more information on the installation folder, see the Infrastructure User's Guide.

1.Select the structures for which you want to generate the BOM.

Use the Edit ->Search command to assist you identify structures of interest.

2.Run the macro: ● Select Tools ->Macro ->Macros...

● Select the macro in the Macro dialog box and click Run to run the macro.

You can also drag and drop the macro onto your toolbar using Tools ->Customize ->Commands ->Macros. Then simply click the icon to run the macro.

The BOM is generated in the form of an Excel report. Product Structure and Equipment Support Structures attributes are listed.

SectionQuantityList.CATScript

For more information on the CATScript itself, see Structure on the Automation Documentation Home Page.

'// COPYRIGHT DASSAULT SYSTEMES 1999'//============================================================================'//'// Language="VBSCRIPT"'// Sample of macro to extract the Bill Of Material '//'//============================================================================'// This CATScript assumes that the user has selected Structural objects'// from the Specification Viewer or the 3D Window.'//'// It is advised that the user understand the VBScript and VBA concepts before'// attempting to modify the code to suit their needs. Microsoft Excel 97'// provides excellent documentation on the use of VBScript and VBA.'//============================================================================

dim excel as AnyObjectdim workbooks as AnyObjectdim workbook as AnyObjectdim sheets as AnyObjectdim sheet as AnyObjectdim excelTemplate as Stringdim excelTemplatePath as Stringdim strWB as Workbenchdim strServ as AnyObjectdim currentRow as integer


'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// Default path of the excel file template'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------strCATCommandPath = CATIA.SystemService.Environ("CATCommandPath")excelTemplate = "SectionQuantityListTemplate.xls"excelTemplatePath = strCATCommandPath + "\" + excelTemplate

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// User customization of the attributes which will be extracted'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------dim nbColumns as integernbColumns = 12dim column(12)column(1) = "MemberType"column(2) = "SectionName"column(3) = "FamilyName"column(4) = "CatalogName"column(5) = "Length"column(6) = "PlateType"column(7) = "Thickness"column(8) = "Surface"column(9) = "Wet area"column(10) = "Volume"column(11) = "Material"column(12) = "Mass"dim posPartNumber as integerposPartNumber = 1dim posName as integerposName = 2

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// Start Excel'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sub StartEXCEL()

Err.ClearOn Error Resume NextSet excel = GetObject (,"EXCEL.Application")If Err.Number <> 0 Then

Err.Clear

Set excel = CreateObject ("EXCEL.Application")

End If

excel.Application.Visible = TRUEset workbooks = excel.Application.WorkBooksset workbook = workbooks.Add(excelTemplatePath)If Err.Number <> 0 Then

Dim strMessage

strMessage = "Error Loading Template File:" + excelTemplatePath + Chr(13)strMessage = strMessage + Chr(13) + "Check the following...." + Chr(13)strMessage = strMessage + "(1)Template File has read-write capability" + Chr(13)strMessage = strMessage + "(2)Template File path is valid"msgbox (strMessage)

End Ifset sheets = workbook.Worksheetsset sheet = sheets("Parameters list")

End Sub

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// Exit Excel


'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub EndEXCEL()

workbook.Closeexcel.Quit

End Sub

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// Write in Excel'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub WriteInExcel(iRow, iColumn, iString)

On Error Resume Next

if (Len(iString) > 0) then

dim whichColumn as integerwhichColumn = 0

Select Case iColumn

Case "PartNumber"

whichColumn = 1

Case "Name"

whichColumn = 2

End Select

if (whichColumn = 0) then

dim NotTheSame as Integerdim i as IntegerNotTheSame = 0

for i = 1 to nbColumns

NotTheSame = StrComp(column(i), iColumn, 0)

if (NotTheSame = 0) then

whichColumn = 2 + i

Exit for

end if

Next

end if

sheet.Cells(iRow, whichColumn) = iStringsheet.Cells(iRow, whichColumn).Select

end if

End Sub


Sub PrintParameters(iProduct)

dim parameters as Parametersdim param as Parameterdim nbParam as integer

On Error Resume NextWriteInExcel currentRow, "PartNumber", iProduct.PartNumberWriteInExcel currentRow, "Name", iProduct.Name

dim RefProduct as Productset RefProduct = iProduct.ReferenceProduct

set parameters = iProduct.ReferenceProduct.Parameters

nbParameters = parameters.Count

dim i as Integerdim parm as Parameter

if (nbParameters > 0) then


if (column(i) = "Length") then

dim length as doublelength = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetLength(iProduct)if (length > 0) thenWriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), lengthend if

Elseif (column(i) = "Thickness") then

dim thickness as doublethickness = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetThickness(iProduct)if (thickness > 0) thenWriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), thicknessend if

Elseif (column(i) = "Surface") then

dim surface as doublesurface = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetSurface(iProduct)if (surface > 0) thenWriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), surfaceend if

Elseif (column(i) = "Wet area") then

dim wetarea as doublewetarea = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetWetArea(iProduct)WriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), wetarea

Elseif (column(i) = "Volume") then

dim volume as doublevolume = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetVolume(iProduct)WriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), volume

Elseif (column(i) = "Mass") then

dim mass as doublemass = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetMass(iProduct)


WriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), mass

Elseif ( column(i) = "Material") then

set param = parameters.GetItem(RefProduct.Name & "\" & column(i))if (Err.Number <> 0) then set param = Nothing

if (Not(param Is Nothing)) thenWriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), param.ValueasString

end ifElseset param = parameters.GetItem(column(i))if (Err.Number <> 0) then set param = Nothing

if (Not(param Is Nothing)) thenWriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), param.ValueasString

end if

end if

Next

end if

End Sub

Sub CATMain()


StartExcel

dim product as Productdim nbProduct as integernbProduct = 0currentRow = 2

dim doc as Documentdim sel as Selection

set doc = CATIA.ActiveDocumentset strWB = doc.GetWorkbench("StrWorkbench")set strServ = strWB.StrComputeServices

set sel = doc.Selectionset product = sel.FindObject("CATIAProduct")

Do Until(product Is Nothing)

nbProduct = nbProduct + 1PrintParameters(product)set product = sel.FindObject("CATIAProduct")if (Err.Number <> 0) then set product = NothingcurrentRow = currentRow + 1

Loop

' EndExcel

End Sub


Generating BOMS in the form of CSV FilesBills of Materials can also be generated in the form of CSV files. This is particularly useful when working on UNIX.

A sample macro QuantityListCSV.CATScript has likewise been delivered in the /install_folder/code/command folder.

Run this macro as described above.

QuantityListCSV.CATScript

'// COPYRIGHT DASSAULT SYSTEMES 1999'//============================================================================'//'// Language="VBSCRIPT"'// Sample of macro to extract the Bill Of Material '//'//============================================================================'// This CATScript assumes that the user has selected Structural objects'// from the Specification Viewer or the 3D Window.'//'// It is advised that the user understand the VBScript and VBA concepts before'// attempting to modify the code to suit their needs. Microsoft Excel 97'// provides excellent documentation on the use of VBScript and VBA.'//============================================================================

dim excel as AnyObjectdim workbooks as AnyObjectdim workbook as AnyObjectdim sheets as AnyObjectdim sheet as AnyObjectdim excelTemplate as Stringdim excelTemplatePath as Stringdim strWB as Workbenchdim strServ as AnyObjectdim currentRow as integer

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// User customization of the attributes which will be extracted'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------

dim nbColumns as integernbColumns = 12dim column(12)column(1) = "MemberType"column(2) = "SectionName"column(3) = "FamilyName"column(4) = "CatalogName"column(5) = "Length"column(6) = "PlateType"column(7) = "Thickness"column(8) = "Surface"column(9) = "Wet area"column(10) = "Volume"column(11) = "Material"column(12) = "Mass"

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// Find parameters value'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sub PrintParameters(iText as TextStream, iProduct as Product)

dim parameters as Parametersdim userParameters as Parametersdim param as Parameter


dim nbParam as integerdim textLine as string

On Error Resume NexttextLine = Cstr(iProduct.PartNumber) & ";"textLine = textLine & Cstr(iProduct.Name) & ";"

dim RefProduct as Productset RefProduct = iProduct.ReferenceProductset parameters = iProduct.ReferenceProduct.Parametersset userParameters = iProduct.ReferenceProduct.UserRefProperties

Dim plate As StrPlatenameProd = iProduct.Name

Dim plates as StrPlates

Set plates = iProduct.Parent.Parent.GetTechnologicalObject("StructurePlates")

if (not(plates is nothing)) thenset plate = plates.Item(nameProd)end if

nbParameters = parameters.Count

dim i as Integerdim parm as Parameter

if (nbParameters > 0) then


Err.Clear

' length to cut for a memberif (column(i) = "Length") thendim length as doublelength = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetLength(iProduct)

if (length > 0) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(length)end if

' thickness for a plateElseif (column(i) = "Thickness") thendim thickness as double

if (Not(plate Is Nothing)) thenthickness = plate.StandardThicknesstextLine = textLine & Cstr(thickness)end if

' surface for a plateElseif (column(i) = "Surface") thendim surface as doublesurface = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetSurface(iProduct)

if (surface > 0) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(surface)end if

' wet area for structure objectsElseif (column(i) = "Wet area") thendim wetarea as doublewetarea = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetWetArea(iProduct)


if (wetarea > 0) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(wetarea)end if

' volume for structure objectElseif (column(i) = "Volume") thendim volume as doublevolume = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetVolume(iProduct)

if (volume > 0) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(volume)end if

' mass for structure objectElseif (column(i) = "Mass") thendim mass as doublemass = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetMass(iProduct)

if (mass > 0) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(mass)end if

' materialElseif (column(i) = "Material") thenset param = parameters.GetItem(RefProduct.Name & "\" & column(i))if (Err.Number <> 0) Then Set param = Nothing

if (Not(param Is Nothing)) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(param.ValueAsString)end if

' user attributeElseset param = parameters.Item(column(i))if (Err.Number <> 0) Then Set param = Nothing

' f(x) attributeif (Not(param Is Nothing)) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(param.ValueAsString)' user propertie on productelseErr.Cleanset param = userParameters.Item(column(i))

if (Not(param Is Nothing)) thentextLine = textLine & Cstr(param.ValueAsString)end ifend ifend if

textLine = textLine & ";"

Nextend if

' write the lineiText.Write(textLine)iText.Write(Chr(10))

End Sub

'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------'// Main'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------


Sub CATMain()


dim fileSystem as FileSystemset fileSystem = CATIA.FileSystem

dim bomFile as Fileset bomFile = fileSystem.CreateFile("e:\tmp\bom.txt", true)

dim text as TextStreamset text = bomFile.OpenAsTextStream("ForWriting")

dim product as Productdim nbProduct as integernbProduct = 0

dim doc as Documentdim sel as Selection

set doc = CATIA.ActiveDocumentset strWB = doc.GetWorkbench("StrWorkbench")set strServ = strWB.StrComputeServices

set sel = doc.Selectionset product = sel.FindObject("CATIAProduct")

Do Until(product Is Nothing)

nbProduct = nbProduct + 1PrintParameters text, productset product = sel.FindObject("CATIAProduct")

if (Err.Number <> 0) thenset product = NothingErr.cleanend if

Loop

text.Close

End Sub


Equipment Support Structure Package in Knowledge Expert

A Equipment Support Structure package is supported by Knowledge Expert. This package can be accessed via the object browser and objects, attributes and methods in the package used in expert relations.

The package contains the following objects:

● StrFoundationExt

● STRMember

● STRPlate

For information on object attributes and methods, see Equipment Support Structure in the Using the Object Libraries section of Using Knowledge Expert Tools (basic tasks) in the Knowledge Expert User's Guide.


Managing User SectionsSketch profiles for user sections: Sketch your profile in the Sketcher workbench then save the sketch as a CATPart document in the directory defined in the Equipment Support Structures tab of the Options dialog box.Define anchor points for user sections: Edit the sketch, create a construction point renaming it with the prefix catStr. Exit the sketcher then save the document.Create & complete parametric section catalogs: Make your file tree, create design tables and CSV files then run your macro to generate the catalog.


Sketching Profiles for User Sections

This task shows how to sketch profiles for user sections using Sketcher capabilities.


1. Start the Sketcher workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Sketcher).

2. Select the xy working plane in the geometry area or specification tree.

The Sketcher workbench is displayed.

User sections created using Sketcher capabilities must be created in the xy plane.

3. Sketch your profile, for example use the Circle icon to

sketch a simple circle that will give a round bar or circular tubing section:

● Point where you want to place the center of the circle.

● Drag to set the radius.

● Click when satisfied.

Note: It is recommended that profile dimensions match actual section dimensions.

4. If desired, set constraints.

5. Exit the sketcher.

6. Using File -> Save, save the sketch as a CATPart document in the folder dedicated to storing available sections defined in your settings (see the Customizing section of this guide).

Your sketch now appears as a resolved section in the Section list of the appropriate dialog box. You are now ready to use it to create a structure.


For more information on sketching profiles and setting constraints, see the Sketcher User's Guide.


Defining Anchor Points for User Sections

Anchor points can be defined on user-defined parametric sections.

Note: All resolved sections automatically inherit the defined anchor point.

This task shows how to define an anchor point.


1. Edit the sketched section.

2. If the anchor point you want to define does not correspond to an existing point of the sketch, create an appropriate construction point.

3. Rename the point: ● Right-click the point and select Properties from

the contextual menu.

● Select the Feature Properties tab in the Properties dialog box.

● Rename the point using the prefix catStr, for example catStrUserAnchorPoint.

4. Exit the sketcher, then save the sketch as a CATPart document (File ->Save).

5. Return to the Structure Design workbench:

The new anchor point is automatically added to the Anchor point list. All user

anchor points are accompanied by the following symbol: to distinguish them from standard anchor points.

Anchor points WebSideLeft, WebSideRight and WebCenter are supplied with the product for L, T and bulb sections. These anchor points are considered user

anchor points and share the same anchor point symbol:


Creating & Completing Parametric Section Catalogs

This task shows how to create a user catalog for parametric sections.

You can create user catalogs in three different ways:

● Using the Catalog Editor with one sketch corresponding to one family and linked to one design table.

● With a Part Family in Batch Mode with one sketch corresponding to one family and linked to one design table.

● In Batch Mode where one sketch is used for several families and design tables are not linked to the sketch. These catalogs are built in the same way as the sample catalogs supplied with the product.

Sample CatScript documents are provided to illustrate the batch mode and will be mentioned below at the appropriate step in the task. They are to be found in the online documentation filetree in the common functionalities sample folder, cfysa/samples.

Creating a Catalog using the Catalog Editor

This first task introduces the Catalog Editor workbench which provides interactive commands to create your own catalogs.

1. Make a USER directory with the same name as your catalog and sub-directories for sketches and design tables: ● USER/Sketches

● USER/DesignTables.

2. Sketch the profiles for your user sections and store in the USER/Sketches directory.

Standard sketches of parametric sections (I, U, L, T, double U, double L, bulb and tube shapes) supplied with the product are located in the directory install_folder/startup/components/StructuralCatalogs/Sketchs.

3. Create design tables, naming the header in the first column PartNumber.

Note: You can create design tables in two ways:

● Independently of sketches, in which case you must link tables to sketches (ensuring that design table column headers correspond to sketch parameters).

● Based on the sketches, in which case no linking is necessary.

Design tables contain the geometric parameters used to generate the section.

4. Use the Catalog Editor to create your catalog: ● From the Start menu, select Infrastructure ->Catalog Editor to open the Catalog Editor workbench.

● Use the Add Part Family icon for Structure Design catalogs.

For more information, see Creating a Catalog using the Catalog Editor in the Infrastructure User's Guide.

Creating a Catalog with a Part Family in Batch Mode


1. Make a USER directory with the same name as your catalog and sub-directories for sketches, design tables and CSV files: ● USER/Sketches

● USER/DesignTables

● USER/CSVFiles

● USER/VBScript.



3. Create design tables, naming the header in the first column PartNumber.

Note: You can create design tables in two ways:

● Independently of sketches, in which case you must link tables to sketches (ensuring that design table column headers correspond to sketch parameters).

● Based on the sketches, in which case no linking is necessary.


4. Create a CSV-type file for Chapters.

CSV files map family names to appropriate family catalogs.

Chapters correspond to the first level in a catalog and provide a way of classifying other chapters or families.

Typical CSV file:

CHAPTER;DIN;I_SectionCatalogDIN;Keywords;Family;Types;String;;Quadrat_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Quadrat_Hohlprofile.catalog;Rechteck_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Rechteck_Hohlprofile.catalog

5. Create ENDCHAPTER and CHAPTER CATScripts.

Sample CATScripts are given below. They are to be found in the online documentation filetree in the common functionalities sample folder, cfysa/samples.

ENDCHAPTER

● Open the file USER_EndChapterswithPartFamily.CATScript. In our example, the content looks like this:


'// COPYRIGHT DASSAULT SYSTEMES 1999'//============================================================================'//'// Language="VBSCRIPT"'// To build catalog from a parametric part'//'//============================================================================'// Major interface used:'//'// interface VB Name Remarks'// ----------- ------------ --------------'// CATIACatalogDocument CatalogDocument create catalog'//'//============================================================================Option Explicit'******************************************************************************' GLOBAL variable declarations section'******************************************************************************Dim strGInputPathDim strGOutputPath'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@'// User customizable sections'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@Const NBEndChapter = 2Dim strArrayEndChapter (2)Dim strArrayModelFile (2)Dim strArrayCatalogFile (2)'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub InitEndChapterArray ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------' Name of the description displayed in the catalog browser'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strArrayEndChapter(1) = "Tees"strArrayEndChapter(2) = "Equal Angles"

'------------------------------------------------------------------------------' Name of the .CATPart defining the sketches'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strArrayModelFile(1) = "TShape"strArrayModelFile(2) = "LShape"

'------------------------------------------------------------------------------' Name of the generated files .catalog used in the USER.CATScript'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strArrayCatalogFile(1) = "USER_Tees"strArrayCatalogFile(2) = "USER_Equal_Angles"

End Sub'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub GetPath ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strGInputPath = InputBox("Path of the models directory:", _

"Input path for model files", _"e:\users\jcm\USER\Sketches\")

strGOutputPath = InputBox("Path of the catalog output directory:", _

"Output path for Catalogs", _"e:\users\jcm\USER\")

End Sub ''------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub CATMain()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Dim objCatalogDoc As DocumentDim intK As IntegerDim strChapterName As StringDim strModelName As StringDim strCatalogName As String'InitEndChapterArray'GetPath'On Error Resume NextFor intK = 1 to NBEndChapter

strModelName = strGInputPath & strArrayModelFile (intK) & ".CATPart"strChapterName = strArrayEndChapter (intK)strCatalogName = strGOutputPath & strArrayCatalogFile (intK) & ".catalog"Set objCatalogDoc = CATIA.Documents.Add("CatalogDocument")' Calls the method on Catalog to create inside the catalog document' a chapter from the Design TableobjCatalogDoc.CreateChapterFromDesignTable strChapterName , strModelName' Saves the catalog documentobjCatalogDoc.SaveAs strCatalogName' Closes the catalog documentobjCatalogDoc.Close

Next 'For intKMsgBox "Press OK to quit", 0, "CATALOG CREATION COMPLETED"

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// CATMain

● If you want to use it, copy it and change the User customizable sections to adapt them to your environment, or copy a sample CATScript from the one of the standard catalogs supplied with the product and change it.

CHAPTER

● Open the file USER_Chapter.CATScript. In our example, the content looks like this:

'// COPYRIGHT DASSAULT SYSTEMES 1999'//============================================================================'//'// Language="VBSCRIPT"'// To build catalog'//'//============================================================================'// Major interface used:'//'// interface VB Name Remarks'// ----------- ------------ --------------'// CATIACatalogDocument CatalogDocument create catalog'//'//============================================================================Option Explicit'******************************************************************************' GLOBAL variable declarations section'******************************************************************************Dim strGInputPathDim strGOutputPath'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@'// User customizable sections'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@Const NBGCSVFile = 1Dim strArrayGCSVFile (1)'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub InitCSVFileArray ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------strArrayGCSVFile(1) = "USER"End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// InitCSVFileArray'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub GetPath ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strGInputPath = InputBox("Path of the catalog input directory:", _


"Input path for CSV files", _"e:\users\jcm\USER\CsvFiles\")


"Output path for Catalogs", _"e:\users\jcm\USER\")

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// GetPath'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub CATMain ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dim objCatalogDoc As DocumentDim intK As IntegerDim strCSVFileDim strCatalogFileInitCSVFileArrayGetPathOn Error Resume NextFor intK = 1 to NBGCSVFile

strCSVFile = strGInputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK) & ".csv"strCatalogFile = strGOutputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK) & ".catalog"Set objCatalogDoc = CATIA.Documents.Add("CatalogDocument")'---------- Generate catalogobjCatalogDoc.CreateCatalogFromcsv strCSVFile,strCatalogFile


End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// CATMain


6. You are now ready to run the batch operation:

● Start a Version 5 session

● Select Tools ->Macro ->Macros...

● In the Macro dialog box, set Macro in to External File

● Select the appropriate CATScript, then click Run.

It is important to run the CATScript generating the families (END CHAPTERS) before the one generating the chapter (CHAPTER) since the chapter references the families.

Creating a Catalog in Batch Mode1. Make a USER directory with the same name as your catalog and sub-directories for sketches, design tables and CSV files:

● USER/Sketches

● USER/DesignTables (this sub-directory must be named DesignTables)

● USER/CSVFiles

● USER/VBScript.



3. Create design tables.

Note: Do not link design tables to sketches.



4. Create CSV-type files for End Chapters and Chapters.

CSV files map section names to appropriate parametric sketches.

END CHAPTER Conventions

End chapters correspond to catalog families. A family is a set of components.

For example, ENDCHAPTER: Name;Icon;DesignTable;

● If the design table is not linked to a sketch, the name of the design table must be the last parameter in the first line starting ENDCHAPTER.

● The first keyword must be Section

● The full path name of documents must be given.

Typical CSV file:

ENDCHAPTER;HEA;I_SectionStructureI;OTUA_HEA;Keywords;Section;Types;String;HEA100;HEA100;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\Sketches\IShape.CATPartHEA120;HEA120;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\Sketches\IShape.CATPartHEA140;HEA140;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\Sketches\IShape.CATPart

CHAPTER Conventions

Chapters correspond to the first level in a catalog and provide a way of classifying other chapters or families.

Typical CSV file:

CHAPTER;DIN;I_SectionCatalogDIN;Keywords;Family;Types;String;;Quadrat_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Quadrat_Hohlprofile.catalog;Rechteck_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Rechteck_Hohlprofile.catalog

5. Create ENDCHAPTER and CHAPTER CATScripts.

Sample CATScripts are given below. They are to be found in the online documentation filetree in the common functionalities sample folder, cfysa/samples.

ENDCHAPTER

● Open the file USER_EndChaptersStandard.CATScript. In our example, the content looks like this:

'// COPYRIGHT DASSAULT SYSTEMES 1999'//============================================================================'//'// Language="VBSCRIPT"'// To build catalog'//'//============================================================================'// Major interface used:'//'// interface VB Name Remarks'// ----------- ------------ --------------'// CATIACatalogDocument CatalogDocument create catalog'//'//============================================================================Option Explicit'******************************************************************************' GLOBAL variable declarations section'******************************************************************************Dim strGInputPathDim strGOutputPath'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@'// User customizable sections'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@Const NBGCSVFile = 2Dim strArrayGCSVFile (2)'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub InitCSVFileArray ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------


strArrayGCSVFile(1) = "Equal_Angles"strArrayGCSVFile(2) = "Tees"End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// InitCSVFileArray'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub GetPath ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strGInputPath = InputBox("Path of the catalog input directory:", _

"Input path for CSV", _"e:\users\jcm\USER\CsvFiles\")


"Output path for CSV", _"e:\users\jcm\USER\")

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// GetPath'------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sub CATMain ()'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dim objCatalogDoc As DocumentDim intK As IntegerDim strCSVFileDim strCatalogFileInitCSVFileArrayGetPathOn Error Resume NextFor intK = 1 to NBGCSVFile

strCSVFile = strGInputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK) & ".csv"strCatalogFile = strGOutputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK) & ".catalog"Set objCatalogDoc = CATIA.Documents.Add("CatalogDocument")'---------- Generate catalogobjCatalogDoc.CreateCatalogFromcsv strCSVFile,strCatalogFile


End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// CATMain


CHAPTER

● Open the file USER_Chapter.CATScript. In our example, the content is as illustrated above.

● f you want to use it, copy it and change the User customizable sections to adapt them to your environment, or copy a sample CATScript from the one of the standard catalogs supplied with the product and change it.

6. You are now ready to run the batch operation:

● Start a Version 5 session

● Select Tools ->Macro ->Macros...

● In the Macro dialog box, set Macro in to External File

● Select the appropriate CATScript, then click Run.

It is important to run the CATScript generating the families (END CHAPTERS) before the one generating the chapter (CHAPTER) since the chapter references the families.

Completing Parametric Section Catalogs


This task shows how to add sections to existing catalogs.

To add sections to existing catalogs, you must rename the path of linked documents in CSV files because these files contain the full path name. To do so, one Excel file per sample catalog containing an appropriate macro is provided. For example, the Excel file for the OTUA catalog is OTUA_hierarchy.xls. Excel files are located in the CsvFiles directory.

1 Edit the Commands sheet of the appropriate Excel file, entering the necessary information.

Note: The first sheet named Data contains all CSV files in the catalog.

2. Click Modify absolute path of pointed CATPart in CSV files to rename the path.

3. Add new sections.

4. Generate the catalog as above.


Interoperability with CATIA V5Produce drawings: Provides information on producing drawings using structure drawing options and generative view styles.

Create cutouts: Edit a plate, then switch to the Part Design workbench. Sketch the contour of the cutout then create it using the Pocket icon.

Create flanges: Edit a plate, then switch to the Sheet Metal Design workbench. Use Walls Recognition and Flange Definition icons.

Create assembly constraints: Switch to the Assembly Design workbench and place desired constraints on structures.

You can also sketch profiles for user sections in the Sketcher workbench.


Producing Drawings using the Options Dialog Box

You can generate structural drawings using:● Structure drawing options in the Options dialog box (see below)

● Generative view styles.

This task shows how to generate structural drawings using structure drawing options in the Options dialog box.

A Drafting license

For more information on drafting capabilities, see the Generative Drafting User's Guide.

1. Open your 3D Document.

2. Specify your settings before you start:

● Select Tools -> Options -> Equipment & Systems and then the Structure Drawing tab.

3. In addition, you will need to set the following drafting options:● In the Options dialog box, select Mechanical Design -> Drafting ->

Generation

● Check Project 3D wireframe, Project 3D points and Apply 3D specifications.

4. Create a new drawing:● Select Start -> Mechanical Design -> Drafting.

You switch to the Drafting workbench and the New Drawing Creation dialog box appears.

● Select the view you want to create.

● Click OK in the New Drawing Creation dialog box.

5. Click the Front View or Advanced Front View icon.

The Advanced Front View command lets you enter a name and scale. The recommended scale is 1:250.

6. Return to the 3D document and select a plane of a 3D part or a plane surface to define the projection plane and the drawing view.

A 3D view is previewed on your drawing. Use the drafting manipulator to adjust the view.

7. Click inside the view to generate the view.


Producing DrawingsGenerative view styles are used to produce structural drawings. These view styles let you customize the appearance of drawings via a set of parameters defined in an XML file. It is the administrator's job to provide suitable styles.For more information on generative view styles and other drafting capabilities, see the Generative Drafting User's Guide.

This tasks shows you how to produce drawings using generative view styles.

A Generative Drafting license.

1. Open your 3D document.

2. Specify your settings before you start: ● Select Tools ->Options ->Mechanical Design->Drafting->Administrator

● Uncheck Prevent generative view style creation

This activates generative view style functionalities.


3. Create a new drawing: ● Select Start -> Mechanical Design -> Drafting.

You switch to the Drafting workbench and the New Drawing Creation dialog box appears.

● Select the view you want to create.

● Click OK in the New Drawing Creation dialog box.

4. Click the Front View icon.

The Generative View Style toolbar is automatically displayed. 5. Select one of the available styles from the list.

6. Return to the 3D document and select a plane of a 3D part or a plane surface to define the reference plane.

7. Click inside the sheet to generated the view.

Use Technological Feature Dimensions commands to dimension functional stiffeners and stiffening in the graphic replacement mode.


Using Generative View StylesThis section intends to give you information about generative view style parameters for the following applications:

● Common to all applications

● Equipment Support Structures

● Structure Functional Design

● Ship Structure Detail Design.

Customizing these parameters is an administrator task. The following sample XML files are supplied:

● EquipmentSupportStructureSample.xml

● StructureFunctionalSample.xml

● StructureDetailSample.xml

Sample files are located in ../OS/startup/EquipmentAndSystems/DrawingExtraction/GVSSamples.

It is recommended that the administrator customize these files. When finished, files must be placed by default in ../OS/resources/standard/generativeparameters to make them available to the user.The administrator must also set the generative parameter "wireframe" in the DefaultGenerativeStyle.xml to Yes so that the user obtains suitable drawings using generative view styles.

Appropriate application licenses including one for Generative Drafting are required.

For information on how to customize parameters, how to create views using generative view styles, or more generally on generative view styles, see the Generative Drafting User's Guide.

Common Symbols

You can customize generative view style parameters for the datum line and connections. These parameters are shared by all structure applications.

Datum Line


Parameter Value Description

ShowDatumLine Yes/No Specifies whether or not to show the datum line.No (default value): No datum lineYes: Shows the datum line

RestrictedToTheBoundingBox Yes/No Specifies whether or not to limit the datum line to the bounding box of generated objects.No (default value): No restrictionYes: Restricts datum line to the bounding box

GridsetPosition 0/1 Specifies the location of the datum line on the drawing:0 (default value): Datum line is generated in the same location as the set of planes1: Datum line is generated to the left of or below the view

HorizontalOffset real Specifies the horizontal datum line offset from the view.Default value: 20 mm

VerticalOffset real Specifies the vertical datum line offset from the view.Default value: 20 mm

GridSetLineType integer Specifies the linetype to use for the datum line.Default value: 1 (solid linetype).

TickSize real Specifies the size (in mm) of tick marks representing frames.Default value: 2.0

AnnotationStyle integer Specifies how to annotate frame tick marks.0: No annotation1 (default value): Frame names2: Offset from origin including units3: Offset from origin, no units given

AnnotationSize real Specifies the size (in mm) of annotations.Default value: 2.0 if model units for length are mm.

If model units for length are cm, set the size to 0.2

AnnotationStep integer Specifies at what intervals to place frame text annotations.Default value: 1 - each tick mark has a frame annotation.

AnnotationStart integer Specifies starting frame for text annotations.Default value: 1

ConnectionParameter Value Description


Extraction Yes/No Specifies whether or not to draw connection symbols.No (default value): no connection symbols.Yes: connection symbols will be drawn.

WeldSeam

AngularTolerance real Specifies the angle (in degrees) determining what weld seam symbol to use. If the angle between plates is less than the specified value:

If the angle is greater than or equal to the specified value:

Default value: 1.0Note: Weld seam symbols are only generated if a connection exists.

UseSymbol Yes/No Specifies whether or not to use a symbol for the connection.No (default value): no symbol used.Yes: a symbol defined by the SymbolicRepresentation parameter will be drawn.

WeldSeam / S_Representation / LongWeldSeam

Offset (4) real Applies to long weld seams. Symbols are placed on the straight seam.

Default value: 3.0 mm


Thickness (5) real Applies to long weld seams.

Default value: 3.0 mm

WeldSeam / S_Representation / ShortWeldSeam

Gap (1) real Applies to short weld seams. Symbols are positioned at each end of the curved seam.

Default value: 1mm

Length (2) real Applies to short weld seams.

Default value: 5 mm

WeldSeam / SymbolicRepresentation / WeldSeam

ChapterName character string Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing connection symbols.Default value: Connections

The chapter must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. DetailName character string Specifies the name of the symbol to represent the connection.

Default value: S_5x1


The symbol must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. WeldSeam / SymbolicRepresentation / WeldSeamWithKnuckle

ChapterName character string Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing connection symbols.Default value: Connections

The chapter must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. DetailName character string Specifies the name of the symbol to represent the knuckle connection.

Default value: SwKnuckle_5x1

The symbol must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. FontedBulkhead

StraightLineType integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing hidden plates (fonted bulkheads).Note: Fonted bulkhead lines are only generated if a connection exists.

The administrator must create a bi-dimensional plate linetype of a crosshatch pattern:● Select Tools -> Standards to start the standards editor.

● Select the Drafting category and open the standard of interest from the File drop-down list.

● Expand nodes and select the LineTypes parameter, then set a bi-dimensional linetype of a crosshatch pattern in the right-hand pane of the dialog box.

CurvedLineType integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing hidden curved plates (fonted bulkheads). The administrator must specify an existing mono-dimensional linetype.Note: Fonted bulkhead lines are only generated if a connection exists.

CurvedLineThickness integer Specifies the thickness to use for hidden curved plates.

Equipment Support StructuresYou can customize generative view style parameters for:

● Members

● Plates.


MemberParameter Value Description

Extraction Yes/No Specifies whether or not to project members.No: no projection.Yes (default value): members will be projected.

GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether to generate a 3D representation or lines representing the trace of members.No (default value): 3D representationYes: graphic replacement

AngularToleranceForEndView real Defines the angle (in degrees) between the member section and the projection vector above which the member section is not projected. Default value: 15.0 (see illustration below)

NearSideLinetype integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing the trace of visible members.Default value: 1 (solid linetype).

SymbolsAtEndsOfProfile

UseAnEndSymbol Yes/No Specifies whether or not to place a symbol at member ends.No: No symbolYes (default value): Symbol used


ChapterName character string Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing end symbols.Default value: Ends

The chapter must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. DefaultDetailName character string Specifies the name of the symbol to place at member ends.

Default value: BlackFilledArrow_3x1.5

The symbol must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource.

PlateParameter Value Description

Extraction Yes/No Specifies whether or not to project plates.No: no projection.Yes (default value): plates will be projected.

GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether to generate a 3D representation or lines representing plates.No (default value): 3D representationYes: graphic replacement

Linetype integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing the plate.Default value: 1 (solid linetype).

LineThickness integer Specifies the line thickness to use.Default value: 2

MaterialExtrusion

MaterialThrowOrientation character string Specifies how to represent material throw orientation:None (default value): No material throw orientation represented.Tick mark (true width): Tick marks showing thickness is generated.Throw orientation (symbolic): A symbol identifying orientation is generated.Tick mark and throw orientation: A symbol identifying orientation and tick marks showing thickness are generated.

MTOSymbolsChapterName character string Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing material throw orientation symbols.Default value: MaterialOrientations

The chapter must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. MTO_DetailName character string Specifies the name of the material throw orientation symbol to generate.

Default value: BlackFilledRectangle_5x1



Structure Functional DesignYou can customize generative view style parameters for:

● Functional stiffeners

● Functional plates

● Functional pillars

● Functional openings.

Functional StiffenerParameter Value Description

Extraction Yes/No Specifies whether or not to project stiffeners.No: no projection.Yes (default value): members will be projected.

GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether to generate a 3D representation or lines representing the trace of stiffeners.No (default value): 3D representationYes: graphic replacement

AngularToleranceForEndView real Defines the angle (in degrees) between the member section and the projection vector above which the member section is not represented.Default value: 15.0

ShowNearSide Yes/No Specifies whether or not to generate the trace of near side stiffeners.Yes (default value): The trace of near side stiffeners is generated.No : No trace.

NearSideLinetype integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing the trace of visible stiffeners.Default value: 1 (solid linetype).

ShowFarSide Yes/No Specifies whether or not to generate the trace of hidden stiffeners.No (default value): No trace.Yes: The trace of hidden stiffeners is generated.

FarSideLinetype integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing the trace of hidden stiffeners.Default value: 4 (phantom linetype).


UseAnEndSymbol Yes/No Specifies whether or not to place a symbol at member ends.No (default value): No symbolYes: Symbol used

ChapterName character string

Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing end symbols.Default value: Ends


The chapter must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource.

DefaultDetailName character string

Specifies the name of the symbol to use at member ends.Default value: BlackFilledArrow_3x1.5


MaterialExtrusion

MaterialThrowOrientation character string

Specifies how to represent material throw orientation:None (default value): No material throw orientation represented.Tick mark (true width): Tick marks showing thickness is generated.Throw orientation (symbolic): A symbol identifying orientation is generated.Tick mark and throw orientation: A symbol identifying orientation and tick marks showing thickness are generated.

MaterialExtrusion / MTO_Detail


Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing end symbols.Default value: MaterialOrientations



Specifies the name of the material throw orientation symbol to use.Default value: BlackFilledRectangle_5x1


DrawDetailsByProfileType Yes/No Specifies whether or not to use a symbol representing the section for material throw orientation.Yes (default value): Symbol used depends on section type. Settings for each section type are included in the GVS file.No: DefaultDetailName symbol used.

MaterialExtrusion / TickMark

OffsetFromEndOfMember (6) real Default value: 7.0Note: If the value is 0, the offset corresponds to 1/15 of the length of the stiffener.

Length (7) real Default value: 5.0Note: If the value is 0, the corresponding length is 1/15 of the length of the stiffener.


Functional PlateParameter Value Description





MaterialExtrusion

MaterialThrowOrientation character string Specifies how to represent material throw orientation:None (default value): No material throw orientation represented.Tick mark (true width): Tick marks showing thickness is generated.Throw orientation (symbolic): A symbol identifying orientation is generated.Tick mark and throw orientation: A symbol identifying orientation and tick marks showing thickness are generated.

MTOSymbolsChapterName character string Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing material throw orientation symbols.Default value: MaterialOrientations

The chapter must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. MTO_DetailName character string Specifies the name of the material throw orientation symbol to generate.

Default value: BlackFilledRectangle_5x1

The symbol must exist in the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog which is managed as a project resource. TM_Length real Specifies the tick mark symbol length.

Default value: 5.0 mmNote: MaterialThrowOrientation must be set to 2 or 3.

Functional PillarParameter Value Description



GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether or not to show pillar support curves.No (default value): no support curves.Yes: support curves are shown.

Functional OpeningParameter Value Description

GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether to generate a 3D representation or symbols representing openings.No (default value): 3D representationYes: graphic replacement

CenterlinesType character string Specifies how to represent the centerline. Three values are available:● No centerlines

● Long centerlines (default value):

● Short centerlines:

OblongOpeningsCenterlinesType character string Specifies how to represent centerlines for oblong openings. Two values are available. Note: The representation depends on the value used for CenterlinesType above.

● Double centerlines (default value):Double centerlines are illustrated with long and short CenterlinesType respectively.

● Single centerlines:Single centerlines are illustrated with long and short CenterlinesType respectively.


ButterflyThickness real Specifies the thickness (in mm) of the butterfly symbol.Default value: 4.0

Ship Structure Detail DesignYou can customize generative view style parameters for:

● Stiffening

● Beaming

● Plating

● Inserting

● Opening

StiffeningParameter Value Description

Extraction Yes/No Specifies whether or not to project stiffeners.No: no projection.Yes (default value): members will be projected.

GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether to generate a 3D representation or lines representing the trace of stiffeners.No (default value): 3D representationYes: graphic replacement

AngularToleranceForEndView real Defines the angle (in degrees) between the member section and the projection vector above which the member section is not represented.Default value: 15.0

ShowNearSide Yes/No Specifies whether or not to generate the trace of near side stiffeners.Yes (default value): The trace of near side stiffeners is generated.No : No trace.


NearSideLinetype integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing the trace of visible stiffeners.Default value: 1 (solid linetype).

ShowFarSide Yes/No Specifies whether or not to generate the trace of hidden stiffeners.No (default value): No trace.Yes: The trace of hidden stiffeners is generated.

FarSideLinetype integer Specifies the linetype of the line representing the trace of hidden stiffeners.Default value: 4 (phantom linetype).

MaterialExtrusion



MaterialExtrusion / MTO_Detail


Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing material throw orientation symbols.Default value: MaterialOrientations





DrawDetailsByProfileType Yes/No Specifies whether or not to use a symbol representing the section for material throw orientation.Yes (default value): Symbol used depends on section type. Settings for each section type are included in the GVS file.No: DefaultDetailName symbol used.

MaterialExtrusion / TickMark

OffsetFromEndOfMember (6) real Default value: 7.0Note: If the value is 0, the offset corresponds to 1/15 of the length of the stiffener.

Length (7) real Default value: 5.0Note: If the value is 0, the corresponding length is 1/15 of the length of the stiffener.



UseAnEndSymbol Yes/No Specifies whether or not to place a symbol at member ends.No (default value): No symbolYes: Symbol used


Specifies the name of the Structure Drawing Symbols Catalog chapter containing end symbols.Default value: Ends



Specifies the name of the symbol to use at member ends.Default value: BlackFilledArrow_3x1.5


BeamingParameter Value Description


GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether or not to show support curves.No (default value): no support curves.Yes: support curves are shown.

PlatingParameter Value Description

Extraction Yes/No Specifies whether or not to project plates.No: no projection.Yes (default value): members will be projected.




MaterialExtrusion




MTOSymbolsChapterName character string



MTO_DetailName character string



TM_Length real Specifies the tick mark symbol length.Default value: 5.0 mmNote: MaterialThrowOrientation must be set to 2 or 3.

InsertingParameter Value Description





MaterialExtrusion




MTOSymbolsChapterName character string



MTO_DetailName character string



TM_Length real Specifies the tick mark symbol length.Default value: 5.0 mmNote: MaterialThrowOrientation must be set to 2 or 3.

OpeningParameter Value Description

GraphicReplacement Yes/No Specifies whether to generate a 3D representation or symbols representing openings.No (default value): 3D representationYes: graphic replacement

CenterlinesType character string Specifies how to represent the centerline. Three values are available:● No centerlines

● Long centerlines (default value)

● Short centerlines


OblongOpeningsCenterlinesType character string Specifies how to represent centerlines for oblong openings. Two values are available. Note: The representation depends on the value used for CenterlinesType above.

● Double centerlines (default value):Double centerlines are illustrated with long and short CenterlinesType respectively.

● Single centerlines:Single centerlines are illustrated with long and short CenterlinesType respectively.

ButterflyThickness real Specifies the thickness (in mm) of the butterfly symbol.Default value: 4.0


Creating Cutouts

This task shows how to use Part Design capabilities to create cutouts. Cutouts are sketch-based features.

It is strongly recommended that you use only standard Part Design commands, such as Pocket, Hole, Edge Fillet, Chamfer and Split. Using other commands may corrupt your document.

For more information on Part Design capabilities, see the Part Design User's Guide.


1. Create a simple plate in the Equipment Support Structures workbench.

2. Right-click the plate you just created and select Edit from the contextual menu.

3. Switch to the Part Design workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Part Design).

4. Select one of the plate faces to define the working plane.

5. Click the Sketcher icon to enter the Sketcher workbench.

6. Click the Elongated Hole icon to sketch your contour.

7. Click where you want to start the major axis, then drag.

8. Click when satisfied to create the major axis.

9. Drag and click again to define the minor axis.

The cutout contour has been defined.

10. Exit the Sketcher.

11. Click the Pocket icon in the Part Design workbench.

The Pocket Definition dialog box appears and your cutout is previewed.


12. Select Up to last in the Type box to define the limit of your cutout.

The cutout feature will be extended from the sketch plane to the last face encountered.

13. Click OK to create the cutout.


Creating Flanges

This task shows how to use Sheetmetal Design capabilities to create flanges.


Sheetmetal capabilities are only available for plates.

1. Create a simple plate in the Equipment Support Structures workbench.

2. Right-click the plate you just created and select Edit from the contextual menu.

3. Switch to the Sheet Metal Design workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Sheet Metal Design).

4. Click the Walls Recognition icon to have the plate recognized and access Sheet

Metal Design commands.

5. Click the Flange Definition icon.

The Flange Definition dialog box appears.

6. Select the edge on which you want to create a flange

7. Specify the flange radius, length and angle. In our example, we entered 2mm, 50mm and 120degrees respectively.

8. Click OK to create the flange.

All Sheetmetal Design commands are available for plates. For more information on Sheetmetal Design capabilities, see the Sheetmetal Design User's Guide.


Creating Assembly Constraints

Creating assembly constraints between structures lets you design in context and, in the case of changes, lets you control the propagation of modifications. Constraints can be placed as you work.

Note: You can also design in context using a grid.

Associativity: To ensure associativity, you must check the following options in the General tab of the Options dialog box (Tools -> Options..., Infrastructure -> Part Infrastructure):


● Synchronize all external references for update.

This task shows how to place an offset constraint between two structures using the Assembly Design workbench.

Open the CreatingAssemblyConstraints.CATProduct document.

1. Select the Assembly Design workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Assembly Design).

2. Click the Offset Constraint icon

3. Select the inside face of one of the two columns.

4. Select the corresponding face on the other column.

The Constraint Properties dialog box appears.


5. Enter an offset of 1000mm in the dialog box, then click OK.

The two structures are now constrained by an offset distance of 1000mm. If you move one of the structures, the distance between the structures will remain 1000mm.

6. Click the Manipulation icon, then the Drag along Y axis icon in

the dialog box that appears.

7. Select one of the structures and drag to a new position, then click OK in the dialog box.


8. Select the structure you moved, then click the Fix Component icon to fix it in space.

9. If necessary, click the Update icon to update your structure and take changes into account.

The entire structure is updated to respect the offset constraint.

For more information on creating constraints, see the Assembly Design User's Guide.


Working with ENOVIA LCA:Optimal CATIA PLM Usability

When working with ENOVIA LCA, a new mode ensures that you only create data in CATIA that can be correctly saved in ENOVIA.

ENOVIA LCA offers two different storage modes: Workpackage (Document kept - Publications Exposed) and Explode (Document not kept). All commands, except Foundation and Joint, work in either storage mode.

The safe save mode means that certain commands (Foundation and Joint) are unavailable (i.e. grayed) on entering the workbench. These two commands have been configured to work in the Workpackage mode only.

When working with ENOVIA LCA, the recommended methodology is:

● Send your ENOVIA document to CATIA.

● Work on your design in CATIA, whether from scratch or modifying an existing design.

● Save your CATIA data in ENOVIA in the Exposed mode.

To ensure seamless integration, you must have both a CATIA and ENOVIA session running.

1. In the Product Structure workbench of CATIA V5, click the Init Enovia V5 Connection...

icon to establish the connection between CATIA V5 and ENOVIA LCA.

2. In ENOVIA LCA, send your ENOVIA document to CATIA.

For more information, see the CATIA / ENOVIA Interoperability User's Guide.

3. Work on your design in your CATIA V5 application.

4. In the Product Structure workbench of CATIA V5, click the Save Data in ENOVIA V5

Server... icon to save your CATIA data in ENOVIA.

For more information, see the CATIA / ENOVIA Interoperability User's Guide.


Using Foundation and Joint Commands

Foundations are defined at the root of the current CATIA document.

1. Send your ENOVIA document to CATIA.

The ENOVIA PRC (product root class) is the root of the CATIA document.

2. Right-click the product workpackage under the PRC and select Open in new window.

The product is opened in a new window as the root of the current CATIA document and

you can now create your foundation and joints.

3. Define your foundation or joints.

If, you created a foundation document in file-based mode:

● Save your work temporarily.

● Create a PRC in ENOVIA.

● Send the ENOVIA document to CATIA.

● Insert the product containing the work you saved temporarily.

● Save your work in ENOVIA.


Workbench DescriptionThe Equipment Support Structures Version 5 application window looks like this:

Click the hotspots to see related documentation.

Design ToolbarAssembly ToolbarSpecification Tree


Design Toolbar

See Creating a Foundation

See Creating a Grid

See Making Up a List of Sections

See Creating Members

See Creating Infills

See Creating Members on Supports

See Creating Plates

See Creating End Plates

See Joining Structures

See Splitting Structures

See Exporting Wireframe Skeletons


Assembly Toolbar

See Translating Structures and Rotating Structures

See Manipulating Structures


Specification Tree

Icons displayed in the specification tree and specific to the Equipment Support Structures workbench are as follows:

Typifies document as a foundation document.

A linear or curved structure.

Support axis along which the section is anchored.

A flat structure.


Customizing Equipment Support Structures

Before you start you first session, you can customize the way you work to suit your habits. This type of customization is stored in permanent setting files: these settings will not be lost if you end your session.

1. Select the Tools -> Options command.

The Options dialog box displays.

2. Select the Equipment & Systems category in the left-hand box.

3. Select the Equipment Support Structures sub-category.

The General tab displays.

This tab lets you define:

❍ Color options: default color for members and plates

❍ Material options: default materials for members and plates

❍ User types: create and manage member and plate user types

❍ Catalogs storage path: path of the folder containing sample standard catalog sections

❍ Sections storage path: path of the folder that will contain the list of available sections

❍ Thickness table path

One other tab, located in the Equipment & Systems category, is also needed for Equipment Support Structures.

❍ Structural Drawing lets you customize how data extracted from the 3D document is presented on structural drawings.

4. Set options in these tabs according to your needs.

5. Click OK in the Options dialog box when done.


Equipment Support StructuresThe Equipment Support Structures tab contains the following categories of options:

● Color

● Material

● User types

● Catalogs storage

● Sections storage

● Thickness table

Color

Member or Plate

Select the default color for members and plates in the appropriate box list.

By default, colors are as shown above.

Material

Member or Plate

Select the default material for members and plates in the appropriate box list.

By default, materials are as shown above.


User types

Member or Plate

Lets you create and manage user types:● Add: enter the name of the member or plate type then click Add to add

user types.

● Remove: select the member or plate type in the list then click Remove to remove user types.

By default, these options are blank.

Catalogs storage

Path

Enter the path of the folder containing sample standard catalog sections supplied with the product:

downloaddirectory/OS/startup/components/structuralcatalogs

where OS is the operating system, for example intel_a (Windows).

By default, this option is left blank.

Sections storage

Path


Enter the full path of the folder that will contain the list of available sections, for example e:\Section, or use [...] to locate the folder of interest.

This folder will contain resolved user-defined sections stored here directly and any sample standard or user-defined catalog sections accessed via the Section command or the Other section... option. It is recommended that an empty directory be identified.


Thickness table

Path

Enter the path of the thickness table. A sample table, ThicknessListSample.txt, is supplied with the product.

downloaddirectory/OS/startup/components/StructuralCatalogs/Thickness Tables/ThicknessListSample.txt

where OS is the operating system, for example intel_a (Windows).



Structure DrawingThe Structure Drawing tab contains the following categories of options:

● Molded forms: to define how molded forms will be represented on drawings.

● Members/Stiffeners: to define how members or stiffeners will be represented on drawings.

● Plates: to define how plates will be represented on drawings.

● Openings: to define how openings will be represented on drawings

● Midship designation

● Datum line

Molded forms

Linetype

Defines the linetype used to represent molded forms on drawings. Select the desired linetype from the drop-down list.

By default, this option is set to 0.Apply linetype on profile view only

If this option is selected, the selected linetype is applied to profile views only.

By default, this option is cleared.

Members / Stiffeners

Graphic replacement


If this option is selected, a line representing the trace of visible members / stiffeners is generated on drawings. The user can specify the linetype (near side linetype) for this line.

By default, this option is cleared and the 3D representation of members / stiffeners is generated on drawings.

Angular tolerance

Defines the value above which the member/ stiffener section is not represented. It is the angle between the member/ stiffener section and the projection vector. In the example below, the angular tolerance is 15.

Near side linetype

Defines the linetype to be used for the trace of visible members / stiffeners if the Graphic replacement option is selected. Select the desired linetype from the drop-down list. A solid line font is recommended.

Show far side stiffeners

If this option is selected, a line representing the trace of hidden members / stiffeners, below a deck for example, is generated on drawings. The user can specify the linetype (far side linetype) for this line.

By default, this option is cleared and hidden members / stiffeners are not shown on drawings.Far side linetype

Defines the linetype to be used for the trace of hidden members / stiffeners if the Show far side stiffeners option is selected. Select the desired linetype from the drop-down list. A phantom font is recommended.

Generate arrowheads

If this option is selected, arrows are generated at ends of members / stiffeners.

By default, this option is cleared and no arrowheads are shown on drawings.


Generate material throw orientation - stiffeners only

If this option is selected, marks indicating the material throw orientation of stiffeners are generated.

Note: This option is valid for stiffeners only.

By default, this option is cleared and no marks are generated on drawings.

Plates

Graphic replacement

If this option is selected, you can define how plates will be represented on drawings.

By default, this option is cleared and the 3D representation of plates is generated.Generate Material Throw Orientation

If this option is selected, marks indicating the material throw orientation of plates are shown on drawings.

By default, this option is cleared.Angular tolerance

Specifies an angular tolerance. If the angle between plates is less than the specified value, weld seams are generated; if the angle is greater than or equal to the specified value, knuckle lines are generated.

By default, this option is set to 0 degrees.Weld seam callout offset

Specifies the offset for weld seam callouts.

By default, this option is set to 0 mm.Weld seam callout thickness

Specifies the thickness for weld seam callouts.

By default, this option is set to 0 mm.


Openings

Graphic replacement

If this option is selected, the user can define the symbols to use to represent openings on drawings.

By default, this option is cleared and the 3D representation of openings is generated.Center line representation

Defines the symbol used for the centerline on front views if the Graphic replacement option is selected. Two options are available:

● Axis line

● Cross symbol: the centerline is represented by a cross.

By default, the axis line is used.Butterfly symbol thickness

Defines the thickness of the butterfly symbol in mm. Applies to profile views.

By default, this option is set to 0 mm.


Midship Designation

Generate hull centerline

If this option is selected, the hull centerline is generated on drawings.

By default, this option is cleared.Hull centerline text

Defines the text to be placed at both ends of the centerline.

By default, this field is blank.Symbol representation

If this option is selected, the midship symbol is generated on drawings.

Note that dimensions of this symbol do not change.

By default, this option is cleared.

Datum Line

Generate datum line

If this option is selected, a datum line is generated on drawings.

By default, this option is cleared.Annotation style

Defines the annotation style to use for the datum line. Options available are:● No annotation

● Names from 3D: specifies frame names

● Position values: specifies the offset from the origin (units are indicated)

● Position values without units: specifies the offset from the origin.

By default, this option is set to No annotation.


Glossary

Aanchor point Corresponds to the point at which a section is

anchored along the support axis

assembly constraint A geometric or dimension relation between two components in an assembly, for example a surface contact or parallelism constraint

Cconstraint In the Structure Design workshop, there are two types of constaint:

● Construction constraint

● Assembly constraint

construction constraint A relation between the structure you create and the underlying wireframe geometry used as construction geometry

curved member A structure having initial curvature

Eendplate Special type of plate. The length and width are defined with respect to

the local axis system of the structure, for example, in the case of an I shape, the width is defined along the x-axis parallel to the flange and the length along the y-axis parallel to the web


Iinfill One or more linear members created in one go between two structures.

Jjoint The way members are fastened together. Cuts proposed include weld cut,

miter cut, normal cut.

Llinear member A straight structure, for example a column or beam

Mmember A linear or curved structure

Oorientation Defines how the section is oriented around its anchor point

Pplate A flat structure

Ssection A sketch that serves to describe the shape representation of a member

support axis A curve or line along which the selected section is routed

Wwireframe element Elements such as points, lines or curves used as construction aids to help

you create your structures


Index

Aadding to

user section catalogs anchor point(s)

creating

defined

selecting

user sections assembly constraint(s)

creating

defined

interoperability with V5

Cchanging

orientation command

Drag along Y axis

Drag around Y axis

End-Plate

Export

Foundation

Grid

Infill

Joint

Manipulate

Member


Member on Support

Plate

Section

Split

Translate or Rotation

constraint

construction constraint creating

anchor point(s)

assembly constraint(s)

endplates

foundation

grids

infill(s)

linear member(s)

members on support

plate(s)

twisted members

user section catalogs

curved member

customizing

Ddefined

anchor point(s)


endplates

infill(s)

linear member(s)

orientation


plate(s)

EEnd-Plate command endplates

creating

defined

modifying

structures

ENOVIA LCA integration

Export command

exporting wireframe geometry

Ffoundation

creating

Foundation command

GGrid command grids

creating

IInfill command infill(s)

creating


defined

modifying

placing

spacing

structures

interoperability with CATIA V5 interoperability with V5


producing drawings

using Part Design for cutouts

using Sheetmetal Design for flanges

Jjoining

structures

joint

Joint command

Kknowledge expert

Llinear member(s)

creating

defined

modifying

placing

structures


Mmaking up list of sections

member

Member command

Member on Support command members on support

creating

modifying

offset

structures modifying

endplates

infill(s)

linear member(s)

members on support

plate(s)

structures

Ooffset

members on support

plate(s) orientation

changing

defined

P


parametric section catalogs placing

infill(s)

linear member(s)

Plate command plate(s)

creating

defined

modifying

offset

sketching

structures

Ssection

making up list of

Section command selecting

anchor point(s)

settings sketching

plate(s) spacing

infill(s)

Split command

splitting structures structures

endplates

exporting

infill(s)

joining

linear member(s)


members on support

modifying

plate(s)

splitting

support axis

Ttools twisted members

creating

Uuser section user section catalogs

adding to

creating user sections

anchor point(s)

using Part Design for cutouts

using Sheetmetal Design for flanges

Wwireframe element working with

ENOVIA LCA

user sections
