VISI-Design

3

Getting to know...

VISI-Design This chapter will begin to explain the necessary functions required to be able to create a controlled 2D drawing. We will also look at the ‘Dataset’ concept of parametric editing.

This chapter looks at

 Using construction construction lines, segments & arcs to create a 2D drawing • Creating Creating a constrained constrained sketch • The ‘Datas ‘Dataset’ et’ concep conceptt

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Creating a 2D Drawing The object of this following example is to highlight the common functions you will use when trying to create a two-dimensional drawing within VISI-Design (see Figure 3.1).

Figure 3.1: A machining fixture.

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VISI-Design

Chapter 3

Creating a 2D Drawing The object of this following example is to highlight the common functions you will use when trying to create a two-dimensional drawing within VISI-Design (see Figure 3.1).

Figure 3.1: A machining fixture.

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Creating a 2D drawing

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Step 1 - Creating a new file  You can also create a

new file by pressing the [Control] and [N] keys on your keyboard.

!

To create a new file you can either open a new VISI-Series session or you can select the File | New option from the mainmenu (see Figure 3.2).

When creating a new file, you may be asked to delete all databases. By choosing ‘Yes’ Yes’ you will loose any additional information added to your file from the last ‘Save’ Save’ (unless it has been saved recently).

Figure 3.2: Creating a new file.

NOTE You can use the [F2]

 and [F3] keys on your

keyboard to move through the available views.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Depending on the configuration of your software, when you create a new file, the system will automatically be set to the ‘Dynamic’ view by default (designed for three-dimensional work). By pressing the [F2] key on your keyboard, you should be moved  to the ‘Top’ view (designed for two-dimensional work).

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Step 2 - Creating the base geometry We will now create the main shape of the component compone nt (see Page 2) using circles and segments.

 You can also select the

‘Parallel’ Parallel’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

1.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Line | Parallel option from the main-menu.

2.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.3), select the ‘X Axis’ Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.4).

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.3: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.4: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

3.

?

Ente Enterr a dist distan ance ce valu valuee of ‘ of ‘0’ and a copy value of ‘ of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.5).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.5: The ‘Insert The Distance’ Distance’ dialogue box.

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A construction line will now be created within your workspace.

You can also select the

4.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Line | Parallel option from the main-menu.

the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

5.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.6), select the ‘Y Axis’ Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.7).

 ‘Parallel’ Parallel’ function using

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.6: The ‘Line Selection’ Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.7: The ‘Axis Selection’ Selection’ toolbar.

6.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Ente Enterr a dist distan ance ce valu valuee of ‘ of ‘0’ and a copy value of ‘ of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.8).

Figure 3.8: The ‘Insert The Distance’ Distance’ dialogue box.

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A second construction line will now be created within your workspace (see Figure 3.9).

Figure 3.9: The first and second construction lines.

We will use the construction line following the X axis as the base line of the drawing, and the construction line following the Y axis as the centre line of the drawing.

Now that we have created our construction lines, we can create the circles required to form the shape of the component.

You can also select the

7.

Select the Wireframe | Circle/Arc | Centre Radius option from the main-menu

using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

8.

Using the ‘Cartesian Co-Ordinate’ icon (see Figure 3.10), enter an X value of ‘30’, a Y value of ‘20’ and a Z value of ‘0’ into the ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box.(see Figure 3.11).

 ‘Centre Radius’ function

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Creating a 2D drawing

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Chapter 3

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.10: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

Figure 3.11: The ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box.

9.

?

Enter a radius of ‘20’ into the ‘Enter The Radius’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.12).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.12: The ‘Enter The Radius’ dialogue box.

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You can also select the

10.

using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

Select the Wireframe | Circle/Arc | Centre Radius option from the main-menu

11.

Using the ‘Cartesian Co-Ordinate’ icon (see Figure 3.13), enter an X value of ‘70’, a Y value of ‘125’ and a Z value of ‘0’ into the ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box.(see Figure 3.14).

 ‘Centre Radius’ function

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.13: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.14: The ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box.

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Creating a 2D drawing

12.

Chapter 3

Enter a radius of ‘20’ into the ‘Enter The Radius’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.15).

Figure 3.15: The ‘Enter The Radius’ dialogue box.

We will now create additional construction lines for use later on in this example.

You can also select the  ‘Centre Radius’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

13.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Line | Parallel option from the main-menu.

14.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.16), select the ‘Y Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.17).

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.16: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.17: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

15.

Enter a distance value of ‘-50’ and a copy value of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.18).

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Figure 3.18: The ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box.

A third construction line will now be created within your workspace.

NOTE You can cycle through the different possible results using the [SPACE BAR] on your keyboard.

You can also select the  ‘Element Angle Line’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

16.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/line | Element Angle Line option from the main-menu.

17.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.19), select the ‘Circle/Arc Quadrant’ icon (see Figure 3.20).

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.19: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Creating a 2D drawing

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Chapter 3

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.20: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.



Switch the ‘Application Point’ toolbar over from ‘Point’ to ‘Element’, then select an element as apposed to a point.

18.

Select the application point - ‘P1’ on the second circle (see Figure 3.21).

P1

Figure 3.21: The application point on the second circle.

19.

?

Using the ‘Y Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.22), enter an angle of ‘45’ into the ‘Segment/Line Element Angle Line’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.23).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.22: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

Figure 3.23: The ‘Segment/Line Element Angle Line’ dialogue box.

A fourth construction line will be created within your workspace (see Figure 3.24).

Figure 3.24: The fourth construction line.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

NOTE You can cycle through the different possible results using the [SPACE BAR] on your keyboard.

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Since the component is symmetrical, we can save time by using the Mirror function to copy our current geometry and paste a mirrored version on the opposite side of the drawing.

✗

Selecting elements that will not change position when mirrored will result in duplicate elements (elements that lie on top of other elements).

20.

Select the Edit | Mirror option from the main-menu.

21.

Using the ‘Copy On’ icon (see Figure 3.25), select the following elements - ‘C1’, ‘C2’, ‘L1’ and ‘L2’ (see Figure 3.26).

Copy On

Copy Off  2D/3D Mirror

Last Selection

Figure 3.25: The ‘Copy Selection’ toolbar.

C1 L1 L2 C2

Figure 3.26: The elements to copy.

22.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Using the ‘Cartesian Co-Ordinate’ icon (see Figure 3.27), enter an X value of ‘0’, a Y value of ‘0’ and a Z value of  ‘0’ into the ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.28).

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Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates

"

Alternatively, you could use the ‘Intersection Point’ icon to lock-on to the intersection point where the ‘X, Y, Z’ axis meet.

Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.27: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

Figure 3.28: The ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box.

23.

Select the ‘Y Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.29).

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.29: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

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We are now at a stage where we can create a series of lines to complete the general shape of the component.

You can also select the - Element’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

 ‘Element

24.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/line | Element - Element option from the main-menu.

25.

Using the ‘Segment Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.30), select the ‘Element’ environment (see Figure 3.31).

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.30: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

Current Environment (Element) Segment Filter Circle Filter Point (Single) Filter Profile Filter Symbol Filter Dimension Filter Mesh Filter

Set/Reset Filters Line Filter Arc Filter Curve Filter Polyline Filter Text Filter Point (Set) Filter Solid Filter

Toolpath Filter

Figure 3.31: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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26.

Select the following elements - ‘C1’ and ‘C2’ (see Figure 3.32).

27.

Select the following elements - ‘C3’ and ‘C4’ (see Figure 3.32).

C2

C1

C3

C4

Figure 3.32: The elements to select.

Two lines will be created within your workspace (see Figure 3.33).

Figure 3.33: The first and second lines.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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NOTE You can cycle through the different possible results using the [SPACE BAR] on your keyboard.

You can also select the  ‘Element - Element’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

28.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/line | Element - Element option from the main-menu.

29.

Using the ‘Segment Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.34), select the ‘Point’ environment (see Figure 3.35).

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.34: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.35: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

30.

?

Using the ‘Intersection Point’ icon (see Figure 3.36), select the following points - ‘P1’ and ‘P2’, then ‘P2’ and ‘P3’, then ‘P4’ and ‘P5’, then ‘P5’ and ‘P6’ (see Figure 3.37).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.36: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

"

Alternatively, you could use the ‘Break Direct’ function to automatically break the construction line at the selected application point.

P1

P4 P2

P5

P3

P6

Figure 3.37: The points to select.

Four lines will be created within your workspace.

You can also select the  ‘Set Drawing Filters’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

?

62

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Now that we have created the main shape of the component, we can use the Break Direct function edit the circles in order to create arcs. To simplify this action, we can also use ‘Filters’ function to switch off the ‘Line’ filter.

31.

Select the Window | View | Set Drawing Filters option from the main-menu.

32.

Using the ‘Set Filter/Layer’ dialogue box, de-select the ‘Line’ filter checkbox (see Figure 3.38).

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Chapter 3

Figure 3.38: The ‘Set Filter/Layer’ dialogue box.

You can also select the  ‘Break Direct’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

33.

Select the Edit | Break Direct option from the mainmenu.

34.

Select the following elements - ‘C1’, ‘C2’, ‘C3’ and ‘C4’ (see Figure 3.39).

C1 C2 C4

C3

Figure 3.39: The elements to select.

NOTE You can cycle through the different possible results using the [SPACE BAR] on your keyboard.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

35.

Select the Window | View | Set Drawing Filters option from the main-menu.

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You can also select the

 ‘Set Drawing Filters’

36.

function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

Using the ‘Set Filter/Layer’ dialogue box, select the ‘Line’ filter checkbox (see Figure 3.40).

Figure 3.40: The ‘Set Filter/Layer’ dialogue box.

Now that we have finished using some of our construction lines, we can use the Erase function to delete the unwanted elements.

You can also select the  ‘Erase’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

37.

Select the Edit | Erase option from the main-menu.

38.

Select the following elements - ‘L1’, ‘L2’, ‘L3’ and ‘L4’ (see Figure 3.41).

L2 L3 L1

?

64

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

L4

Figure 3.41: The elements to erase.

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Creating a 2D drawing

Chapter 3

Step 3 - Creating the feature geometry We will now create the first three features of this component (see Page 2) using circles and segments.

You can also select the

 ‘Centre Radius’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

39.

Select the Wireframe | Circle/Arc | Centre Radius option from the main-menu.

40.

Using the ‘Circle/Arc Centre’ icon (see Figure 3.42), select the following elements - ‘C1’, then ‘C2’, then ‘C3’, then ‘C4’ (see Figure 3.43).

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.42: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

C1

C2

C3

C4

Figure 3.43: The elements to select.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

41.

Enter a radius of ‘10’ into the ‘Enter The Radius’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.44).

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Figure 3.44: The ‘Enter The Radius’ dialogue box.

You can also select the  ‘Parallel’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

42.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/lines | Parallel option from the main-menu.

43.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.45), select the ‘X Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.46).

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.45: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.46: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

44.

?

Enter a distance value of ‘15’ and a copy value of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.47).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.47: The ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box.

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A third construction line will now be created within your workspace.

You can also select the

45.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/lines | Parallel option from the main-menu.

the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

46.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.48), select the ‘X Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.49).

 ‘Parallel’ function using

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.48: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.49: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

47.

Enter a distance value of ‘25’ and a copy value of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.50).

Figure 3.50: The ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

A fourth construction line will now be created within your workspace.

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You can also select the - Element’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

 ‘Element

48.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Line | Element - Element option from the main-menu.

49.

Using the ‘Segment Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.51), select the ‘Intersection Point’ icon (see Figure 3.52).

Line Filter

Segment Filter

Figure 3.51: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

Current Environment (Point)

Mouse Selection

Cartesian Co-Ordinates

Polar Co-Ordinates

Intersection Point

Two Element Intersection

Parametric Point

Circle/Arc Centre

Circle/Arc Quadrant

Point Selection

Figure 3.52: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

50.

?

68

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Select the following points - ‘P1’ and ‘P2’, then ‘P3’ and ‘P4’ (see Figure 3.53).

P1

P2

P3

P4

Figure 3.53: The points to select.

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Creating a 2D drawing

Chapter 3

Now that we have finished using some of our construction lines, we can use the Erase function to delete the unwanted elements.



You can also select the ‘Erase’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

51.

Select the Edit | Erase option from the main-menu.

52.

Select the following elements - ‘L1’ and ‘L2’ (see Figure 3.54).

L1

L2

Figure 3.54: The elements to erase.

You can also select the

53.

Select the Edit | Break Direct option from the mainmenu.

using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

54.

Select the following elements - ‘C1’ and ‘C2’ (see Figure 3.55).

 ‘Break Direct’ function

C1

?

C2

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.55: The elements to select.

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NOTE You can cycle through the different possible results using the [SPACE BAR] on your keyboard.

We will now create the last two features of this part (see Page 2) using arcs and segments.

You can also select the

55.

the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Lines | Parallel option from the main-menu.

56.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.56), select the ‘Y Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.57).

 ‘Parallel’ function using

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.56: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.57: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

57.

?

Enter a distance value of ‘20’ and a copy value of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.58).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.58: The ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box.

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A third construction line will now be created within your workspace.

You can also select the

58.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Lines | Parallel option from the main-menu.

the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

59.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.59), select the ‘Y Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.60).

 ‘Parallel’ function using

Segment Filter

Line Filter

Figure 3.59: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.60: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

60.

Enter a distance value of ‘50’ and a copy value of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.61).

Figure 3.61: The ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box.

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

A fourth construction line will now be created within your workspace.

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You can also select the

61.

the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Lines | Parallel option from the main-menu.

62.

Using the ‘Line Filter’ icon (see Figure 3.62), select the following elements - ‘S1’, then ‘S2’ (see Figure 3.63).

 ‘Parallel’ function using

Line Filter

Segment Filter

Figure 3.62: The ‘Line Selection’ toolbar.

S2

S1

Figure 3.63: The elements to select.

63.

Enter a distance value of ‘10’ and a copy value of ‘1’ into the ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.64).

Figure 3.64: The ‘Insert The Distance’ dialogue box.

?

72

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Construction lines will now be created within your workspace.

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Creating a 2D drawing

Chapter 3

NOTE You can cycle through the different possible results using the [SPACE BAR] on your keyboard.

You can also select the

 ‘Break Direct’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series ®  interface.

64.

Select the Edit | Break Direct option from the mainmenu.

65.

Select the following elements - ‘L1’, ‘L2’, ‘L3’ and ‘L4’ (see Figure 3.65).

L1

L2

L4 L3

Figure 3.65: The elements to select.

We are now at a stage where we can add the required fillets to the feature geometry. You can also select the

 ‘Fillet’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

?

66.

Select the Wireframe | Circle/Arc | Fillet option from the main-menu.

67.

Enter a radius value of ‘5’ into the ‘Fillet’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.66)

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Figure 3.66: The ‘Fillet’ dialogue box.

68.

Select the following points - ‘P1’, then ‘P2’, then ‘P3’ and then ‘P4’ (see Figure 3.67).

P2

P1 P4 P3

Figure 3.65: The elements to select.

NOTE It is not necessary to highlight both target elements when creating a fillet. Indicating the position/point of the fillet is enough.

Since this component is symmetrical across the Y axis, we can mirror this particular feature.

?

74

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Getting to know... The VISI-Series ® 

Creating a 2D drawing

✗

Selecting elements that will not change position when mirrored will result in duplicate elements (elements that lie on top of other elements).

Chapter 3

69.

Select the Edit | Mirror option from the main-menu.

70.

Using the ‘Copy On’ icon (see Figure 3.66), select the ‘Multiple Selection’ icon (see Figure 3.67).

Copy Off 

Copy On

2D/3D Mirror

Last Selection

Figure 3.66: The ‘Copy Selection’ toolbar.

Inside Window

Inside & Clipping Window

Outside Window

Select All

Colour Selection

Multiple Selection

Figure 3.67: The ‘General Selection’ toolbar.

71.

Select the following elements - ‘S1’, ‘S2’, ‘S3’, ‘S4’, ‘A1’, ‘A2’, ‘A3’ and ‘A4’ (see Figure 3.68).

S1 A4 S4

A1

S2

A3 S3 A2

?

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.68: The elements to select.

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Alternatively, you could use the ‘Intersection Point’ icon to lock-on to the intersection point where the ‘X, Y, Z’ axis meet.

72.

Using the ‘Cartesian Co-Ordinate’ icon (see Figure 3.69), enter an X value of ‘0’, a Y value of ‘0’ and a Z value of  ‘0’ into the ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.70).

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.69: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

Figure 3.70: The ‘Insert Co-Ordinates’ dialogue box.

73.

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Select the ‘Y Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.71).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

View Direction

Figure 3.71: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

Now that we have created all of the features of this particular component, we can complete the drawing by adding the final fillets to the outside boundary.

You can also select the  ‘Fillet’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

74.

Select the Wireframe | Circle/Arc | Fillet option from the main-menu.

75.

Enter a radius value of ‘20’ into the ‘Fillet’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.72)

Figure 3.72: The ‘Fillet’ dialogue box.

76.

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Select the following points - ‘P1’ and ‘P2’ (see Figure 3.73).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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P1

P2

Figure 3.73: The elements to select.

Now that we have finished with our construction lines, we can use the Delete All Pro_Lines function to completely remove all of the projection lines from the drawing.

77.

Select the Wireframe | Segment/Lines | Delete All Pro_Lines option from the main-menu.

We have now completed the final stage of creating this drawing by using arcs, circles and segments (see Page 2).

Step 4 - Adding dimensioning With a completed drawing it is now important to be able to dimension and detail so that others will be able to read the drawing correctly. Within the CAD there are many ways to dimension a part and many designers prefer to dimension in a certain style.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

When using the dimension tools it is important to note that the system uses the same point selection methods as the rest of the CAD.

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You can also select the

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tion using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

79.

Using the ‘Circle/Arc Centre’ icon (see Figure 3.74), select the following elements - ‘C1’ then ‘C2’ (see Figure 3.75).

 ‘Single Element’ func-

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.74: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

C1

C2

Figure 3.75: The elements to select.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimension to the required position (drag the dimension below the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button).

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

80.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

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You can also select the

 ‘Single Element’ func-

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tion using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

Using the ‘Circle/Arc Centre’ icon (see Figure 3.76), select the following elements - ‘C1’ then ‘C2’ (see Figure 3.77).

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.76: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

C2

C1

Figure 3.77: The elements to select.

82.

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Using the ‘Dimension Selection’ toolbar, select the ‘Vertical Dimension’ icon (see Figure 3.78).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Cursor Grid

Chapter 3

Tolerance/Annotation Text

Diameter Dimension

Witness Line (On/Off)

External Arrows

Internal Line (On/Off)

Set Parallel Reference

Set Perpendicular Reference

Horizontal Dimension

Vertical Dimension

Direct Dimension

Incline Dimension Internal Arrow

Figure 3.78: The ‘Dimension Selection’ toolbar.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimension to the required position (drag the dimension to the left-hand side of the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button).

NOTE Since the two selected points are not orthogonal, the system will default to the ‘Direct Dimension’ option. Using the icons within the ‘Dimension Selection’ toolbar can vary the dimensioning style.

You can also select the  ‘Single Element’ function using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

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83.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

84.

Using the ‘Circle/Arc Centre’ icon (see Figure 3.79), select the following elements - ‘C1’ then ‘C2’ (see Figure 3.80).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.79: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

C1

C2

Figure 3.80: The elements to select.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimension to the required position (drag the dimension above the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button). You can also select the

 ‘Single Element’ function using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

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82

85.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

86.

Using the ‘Circle/Arc Centre’ icon (see Figure 3.81), select the following elements - ‘A1’ then ‘A2’, and ‘A2’ then ‘A3’ (see Figure 3.82).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Current Environment (Point)

Chapter 3

Mouse Selection

Cartesian Co-Ordinates

Polar Co-Ordinates

Intersection Point

Two Element Intersection

Parametric Point

Circle/Arc Centre

Circle/Arc Quadrant

Point Selection

Figure 3.81: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

A1 A2

A3

Figure 3.82: The elements to select.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimension to the required position (drag the dimension above the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button). You can also select the

 ‘Single Element’ function using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

87.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

88.

Using the ‘Intersection Point’ icon (see Figure 3.83), select the following points - ‘P1’ then ‘P2’ (see Figure 3.84).

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Current Environment (Point)

Mouse Selection

Cartesian Co-Ordinates

Polar Co-Ordinates

Intersection Point

Two Element Intersection

Parametric Point

Circle/Arc Centre

Circle/Arc Quadrant

Point Selection

Figure 3.83: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

P1

P2

Figure 3.84: The points to select.

89.

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84

Using the ‘Dimension Selection’ toolbar, select the ‘Set Perpendicular Reference’ icon (see Figure 3.85).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Cursor Grid

Chapter 3

Tolerance/Annotation Text

Diameter Dimension

Witness Line (On/Off)

External Arrows

Internal Line (On/Off)

Set Parallel Reference

Set Perpendicular Reference

Horizontal Dimension

Vertical Dimension

Direct Dimension

Incline Dimension Internal Arrow

Figure 3.85: The ‘Dimension Selection’ toolbar.

90.

Select the following element - ‘S1’ (see Figure 3.86).

S1

Figure 3.86: The element to select.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimension to the required position (drag the dimension above the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button).

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

91.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

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You can also select the

 ‘Single Element’ func-

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tion using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

Using the ‘Current Environment (Point)’ icon (see Figure 3.87), switch the environment to ‘Current Environment (Element)’ (see Figure 3.88).

Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.87: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

Current Environment (Element) Segment Filter Circle Filter Point (Single) Filter Profile Filter Symbol Filter Dimension Filter Mesh Filter

Filters (On/Off) Line Filter Arc Filter Spline Filter Polyline Filter Text Filter Point (Set) Filter Solid/Surface Filter

Toolpath Filter

Figure 3.88: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

93.

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86

Select the following element - ‘C1’ (see Figure 3.89).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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C1

Figure 3.89: The element to select.

94.

Using the ‘Tolerance/Annotation Text’ icon (see Figure 3.90), then enter ‘ TYP.’ into the ‘After’ text box of the ‘Multiple Icon Selection’ dialogue box (see Figure 3.91).

Diameter Dimension Tolerance/Annotation Text

Cursor Grid Centre Cross (On/Off)

Internal Line (On/Off)

Arc Continuation

Horizontal Dimension

Zig-Zag Dimension

Radial Dimension

Figure 3.90: The ‘Dimension Selection’ toolbar.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Figure 3.91: The ‘Multiple Icon Selection’ dialogue box.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimension to the required position (drag the dimension above the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button).

 You can also select the ‘Single Element’ function using the toolbar located down the lefthand side of the VISISeries®  interface.

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88

95.

Select the Annotation | Single Element option from the main-menu.

96.

Using the ‘Current Environment (Point)’ icon (see Figure 3.92), switch the environment to ‘Current Environment (Element)’ (see Figure 3.93).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Current Environment (Point) Cartesian Co-Ordinates Intersection Point Parametric Point Circle/Arc Quadrant

Chapter 3

Mouse Selection Polar Co-Ordinates Two Element Intersection Circle/Arc Centre Point Selection

Figure 3.92: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

Current Environment (Element) Segment Filter Circle Filter Point (Single) Filter Profile Filter Symbol Filter Dimension Filter Mesh Filter

Filters (On/Off) Line Filter Arc Filter Spline Filter Polyline Filter Text Filter Point (Set) Filter Solid/Surface Filter

Toolpath Filter

Figure 3.93: The ‘Application Point’ toolbar.

97.

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Select the following elements - ‘C1’, then ‘A1’, then ‘A2’, then ‘C2’ (see Figure 3.94).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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C1

A2

A1

C2

Figure 3.94: The elements to select.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimen sions to the required position (drag the dimension to the right-hand side of  the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button).

You can also select the  ‘Angular Dimension’ function using the toolbar located down the left-hand side of the VISI-Series®  interface.

98.

Select the Annotation | Angular Dimension option from the main-menu.

97.

Select the following element - ‘S1’ (see Figure 3.95).

S1

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.95: The element to select.

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Chapter 3

Using the ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar, select the ‘X Axis’ icon (see Figure 3.96).

X Axis

Y Axis

Z Axis

Figure 3.96: The ‘Axis Selection’ toolbar.

You will now be able to dynamically drag the dimen sions to the required position (drag the dimension to the right-hand side of  the component and confirm using the left hand mouse button). We have now completed the dimensioning of this drawing by using the dimensioning tools that are available to us (see Page 2).

Step 5 - Creating ‘Datasets’ The ‘constraint manager’ is an intelligent design tool. It will analyse a 'group' of geometrical elements, (which we call a dataset), determine the associativity between these elements, and then when one element is changed in some way, it will change all the other elements that form some association with it. As a simple example; if a triangle is created, and one of the segments moved, then the constraint manager will extend the other lines to the point of intersection, maintain the angle at the apex of the triangle, and update the associated dimensions.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

One important fact to note is that the process of creating the elements (its history) is completely irrelevant. It does not matter who defined the geometry, or indeed where it was created. If geometry is imported via IGES or DXF it can still be assigned to a data set, its geometrical associativity analysed, and then changed so that intersection points are maintained. Tangent elements remain tangent, and the overall shape is retained.

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Each ’set’of connected elements is referred to as a data set. There may be up to 255 data sets in a file, but an element cannot belong to more than one data set simultaneously. As many designs have common features, a data set can be saved (rather like a symbol), and subsequently recalled into the current workfile. When a workfile is saved through the standard file options however, the data set information is not saved with it. All data set elements must lie on the same workplane. In the unlikely event that the number of allowable data sets is exce eded it is necessary to save the work file, and any requir ed data sets, and create a new file. A dataset contains a database, which defines the connectivity between its elements. It does not contain the data that describes the physical spatial location of its elements. The dataset option contains the following functions:

Create Dataset This function creates a dataset. The elements are selected using the standard techniques including enclosing the elements in a box, picking etc. If an element already belongs to an existing data set it is de-selected, and a warning will be given. When the selection is confirmed the dataset is analysed (see also Set Dataset Defaults). The following types of element may be assigned to a dataset: Segments, circles, arcs and dimensions.

Move Element This function allows a segment, circle or arc to be moved. For segments the ’moved’element is parallel to the original element and passes through the picked point. For circles a nd arcs the centre is effectively being moved.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Change Length/Radius This will change the length of a segment or the ra dius of a circle or arc. For segments it is possible to move the start, or end, or both ends of the segment. For circles or arcs where there is tangency, it is necessary to select either to move the circle centre (thus maintaining the relative position of the tangent elements) or to maintain the centre.

Change El-El Distance This will change the distance between two circle or arc centres or between two parallel segments. For parallel segments either or both segments may be moved. For circle/arc distances, in addition to the selection of certain element(s) to be moved, the distance may be defined as horizontal, or vertical or (provided the element centres do not lie on one of  the workplane axes) centre-centre distance.

Change Dimension If the data set contains dimensions then the movement of any element will also update the associated dimension. Sometimes it may be easier to change the dimension directly. The options available depend upon the type of dimension. The location of dimensions needs to change after the elements referenced have been moved. However the ’best’ positions are very much in the eye of the designer. There is no analytical best position. Therefore be prepared to move them again yourself.

(i)

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Single Dimension - A linear dimension can be modified provided it refers to the distance between two circle centres, or two parallel lines.

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As with ‘Change El-El Distance’ a number of options are available as to which element is to be changed. (ii)

Circle/Arc Dimensions - All circle/arc dimensions can be modified.

(iii)

Angular Dimensions - Angular dimensions can be changed by moving the first, second or both elements.

Dataset Defaults When a dataset is selected, it is analysed using the constraints defined in the parameter list. These parameters are:

Shared Points A shared point is a common point between two elements. If a segment ends at one point and another starts at the same point, then this is a shared point. If one element is subseq uently moved then any other that shares a point on that element must be moved.

Intersection Points An intersection point is where one element starts or terminates at its intersection position with another. If the intersecting element is moved, then its 'length' must be recalculated to produce another intersection point with the intersected element. If the two elements are segments then provided the two lines are not parallel, an intersection point will always exist (it need not lie within the extents of the intersected element). If either element is an arc or a circle then this imposes a physical restriction on the amount by which either element can be moved.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

NOTE The segment cannot move beyond this line (see Figure 3.97) as the intersection point would be lost.

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Figure 3.97: physical restriction.

Concentric Circles If two or more circles or arcs share the same centre then the movement of one of them will force the movement of the others.

Tangency This switch determines if elements are tangent. If they are, then when an element is moved, the tangent elements are re-calculated so that they remain tangent.

Physical Tangency This switch is only relevant if the tangency switch is set. If set an element is seen as being tangent, provided the actual tangency points lie within the extents of all the tangent elements. For example:

(i)

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Original Shape - Although the arc is not physically tangent (see Figure 3.98) you can see it is tangent to both outer segments.

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Figure 3.98: Original shape.

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(ii)

Physical Tangency (Off) - If this switch is off, the elements do not have to be physically touching to be seen a s tangent (see Figure 3.99). In this case if the bottom segment is moved, the arc is automatically updated.

Figure 3.99: Physical Tangency (Off).

(iii)

Physical Tangency (On) - If this switch is on, the elements have to be physically touching to be seen as tangent (see Figure 3.100). In this case if the bottom segment is moved, the arc will not be updated.

Figure 3.100: Physical Tangency (On).

Collinear Segments

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

Two (or more) collinear segments exist when an infinite line passing along one of the segments also passes through the others. As all these segments will then share a single parent, moving any one of the segments will force a move of all the others so that collinearity is maintained.

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Create Variable Creating a variable allows you to reference numeric values from one dimension to another. If one dimension were to change, then the other would update. For example: The 20 radius arc is variable A The 10 radius arc is variable B Variable B is referenced to A with a value of: B = A-10 Therefore if variable A is changed to 25 Variable B will automatically change to 15

Delete Dataset Destroys the dataset selection. When any element belonging to the dataset is selected, all the data set elements are highlighted and on confirmation the data set is deleted. This destroys the constraint database for these elements, but does not delete or change in any way the elements themselves.

Step 6 - Printing geometry You can also print your  geometry by pressing the [Control] and [P] keys on your keyboard.

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To print on-screen geometry you will have to select the File | Hardcopy option from the main-menu (see Figure 3.101).

For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

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Figure 3.101: Printing geometry. NOTE You may need to setup your printing/plotting device before you can print/plot the on-screen geometry successfully. This can be done by using the File | Printer/Plotter Setup option from the main-menu.

"

Play around with different settings, to see the type of results you can obtain.

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

After you have selected the geometry to print, you have an option to use the customisable VISI-Series® software settings for the actual printing/plotting (see Figure 3.102).

Figure 3.102: The ‘Hardcopy’ dialogue box.

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Using the software settings will allow special line styles and widths that may not be supported by your printing/plotting device to be printed correctly to the original on-screen information.

Step 7 - Saving data

You can also save a file  by pressing the [Control] and [S] keys on your keyboard.

To save data you will have to select the File | Save option from the main-menu (see Figure 3.103).

Figure 3.103: Saving data.

You can also use three other methods to save information:

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For more information press the [F1] key on your keyboard.

(i)

Save As - This will allow you to specify a file name when saving the on-screen data.

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