Introduction To Modeling

Introduction
ASSEMBLY
ProEngineer Wildfire2 is a computer aided design (CAD) program that is
used to create models on a computer in three-dimensions. Since three
dimensions are used the models mimic real parts in the way that they are
constructed. The models are sometimes referred to as virtual parts since
at the design stage they only exist within the computer. Most of the models SUB
made in ProEngineer Wildfire2 are termed solid models which implies that PART PART ASSEMBLY
the computer has a full understanding of the solidity of the part i.e. the
computer knows where there is material and where there is empty space.
Solid modelers use commands to construct models that reflect
manufacturing techniques, such as extrude and cut, combining these to PART PART
make complex shapes. FEATURE FEATURE FEATURES
Extrude Extrude
ProEngineer Wildfire2 is a fully parametric CAD program. This means that Block Holes

when a part is designed and modeled dimensions are assigned which FEATURE FEATURE
define the part. If, at a later time, these dimensions are found to be Extrude Extrude
Slot Hole
unsuitable they can be easily changed and the modification will filter FEATURES FEATURES

through the system wherever the part appears. This is particularly helpful
when dealing with collection of parts (known as an assembly) since if a
modification is made to a single part, the modification is carried throughout
the assembly. A designer can also define relationships between parts. For Figure 1 : The Structure of Models
example, in an engine, if the diameter of the piston is increased or
decreased, the corresponding engine block can be defined such that it is Creating a Part
automatically modified to match the specifications of the modified piston.
In this tutorial we will introduce you to some basic modeling concepts
Using any CAD system complex models need to be built by combining including creating parts, creating basic features, sketching and saving
simpler shapes. In ProEngineer Wildfire2 these simpler shapes are called information. Before starting to work through this tutorial you need to be
features. Several features are combined to form a part. Using Figure 1 as sitting in front of a computer which has access to ProEngineer Wildfire2
an example the part shown diagrammatically is made up of four features and be logged on. You tutor should have advised you of how to log in
as follows:- already.
1. A rectangular block of material is created.
2. Removing material from the block creates a slot. Start ProEngineer Wildfire2 by double clicking on the icon on your
3. Finally material is removed to form a large hole. desktop or from the START menu. The main application window should
4. Material is again removed to make four small holes. appear shortly.

Later tutorials will explain how several parts can be combined to form
assemblies as shown in Figure 1.

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 Introduction To Modeling
After choosing the new command a dialog box will appear as shown in
Figure 3. Notice that the Part option is already checked and type in
calculator as the name of this part (Note : ProEngineer does not allow
spaces and other special characters in names).
A second dialog will appear offering different options for parts in
particular different units of measurement. Choose mmns_part_solid which
means the units of length will be millimetres and units of mass will be
Newtons and click on the OK button.

Figure 2: ProEngineer Main Window

You will see the normal Windows features menus, toolbars, a main
graphics area and on the left side a browser window.
The next step is to create your first part. To do this use the menu FILE >
NEW. As you click on this menu notice the small picture to the left of the
word New This is the icon for the NEW command. You could choose
this icon from the toolbar below the menu if you prefer. Generally in this
tutorial the menu command is given but you will often find the icon more Figure 4 : Part Options
convenient so look out for them.
Well done you have made your first part! The part contains some
features already. The browser on the left of Figure 5 shows 3 datum
planes and a coordinate system. So what are datum planes? As the word
plane implies these are flat areas that can be used as references for
defining parts of your model. In some case you can define models without
any datum planes, in other cases they are essential. Many people choose
to always have a basic set of default datum planes (like the ones in your
model) defined as a starting point for their model. Datum planes are
displayed as rectangles that are just big enough to enclose the model.
They are given names by the system such as RIGHT, TOP and FRONT.
You will see datum planes drawn in either brown or black. This is to
distinguish between the two sides of the datum. If you looking exactly onto
the edge of a datum plane you will see two parallel lines drawn
representing the two sides of the plane
Figure 3 : The New Part Dialog Box

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 Introduction To Modeling

Figure 7 : The Dashboard

To start creating this feature click on the PLACEMENT menu in the
dashboard highlighted in red then press the DEFINE button. The
Sketch dialog appears. Notice that this dialog has many fields but the
sketch plane option is highlighted in pale yellow awaiting your input. The
sketch plane is a flat surface onto which you will draw your shape. Choose
the datum plane TOP by clicking on it in the graphics window or in the
browser. The other fields in the Shape dialog are filled in automatically so
Figure 5 : Start of the Part you dont need to worry about them at the moment just click on the
Now lets start modelling. Figure 6 shows the finished model we are going SKETCH button.
to make it is a childs calculator. As with any model you make there are The graphics screen will change to a black background looking directly on
lots of options as to how to approach the modelling process. We will to the sketch plane, and the icons described in Figure 9 will appear. You
describe one approach here but there are others. The model is made should also see a References dialog. References are used by
from a series of building blocks called features. In general try and use as ProEngineer to locate dimensions. ProEngineer guesses at suitable
few features as possible but also keep each feature as simple as possible. references and in this case will have chosen the Right and Front datums
as shown in the main graphics window by the dotted lines. This is a good
choice in this case so you can CLOSE this dialog.
You are now ready to use sketcher. Choose the rectangle tool and draw
the rectangle with two clicks as shown in Figure 8.
Second click about
here on the screen

Figure 6 : The Toy Calculator

The starting point for our calculator will be a simple rectangular block of
material made by a technique called extrusion. First click on the
horizontal reference

Extrusions
Choose INSERT > EXTRUDE from the menu. Note the icon for this
command which also appears to the right of the screen it is a very
commonly used command. You should see a new toolbar appear like the
one in Figure 7. This is called the dashboard and contains all of the
options for the type of feature you are creating. Figure 8 : Outline Sketch

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 Introduction To Modeling
that you drew the original rectangle. You will also notice that constraints
have been created. These are indicated by the small symbols next to each
Enter Select line. V stands for vertical and H stands for horizontal.
Draw Lines Now to set the size of the rectangle to the correct value, choose the
Draw Rectangles selection tool and double click on each dimension and type in the
Draw Lines required value from Figure 8.
The dimensions will now be in yellow indicating that they have changed
Draw Arcs
and the shape will change to the sizes entered. To end sketching press
Draw Fillets
the icon. To complete this first feature type 12 into the numeric field
Draw Curves of the dashboard (See Figure 7) and click the green tick to finish.
Draw Points To see this block in all its glory choose the command VIEW >
Use Edges as ORIENTATION > STANDARD ORIENTATION and try the different display

Add Dimensions option icons . You can also look around your design press
the middle mouse button and move the mouse to spin the model around.
Drag Geometry Middle mouse button and SHIFT key moves the model around the screen.
Constraints Middle mouse button and CTRL key zooms into the model you can use
Draw Text the mouse wheel for this too.

Trim
Mirror Objects

Leave Sketcher
Quit Sketcher

Figure 9 : Sketcher Commands

Your window should now look like Figure 8 but the numbers in the
dimensions will be different. If the dimensions arent positioned exactly as
in Figure 8 dont worry, just choose the select tool and click and drag
the dimension text to a new position. You will notice that the dimensions
are drawn in grey. This indicates that they are so called weak
dimensions. Weak dimensions will be automatically replaced if they
become unnecessary.
The drawing you have made defines the SHAPE of the feature. To fully
define the feature ProEngineer has automatically added dimensions that
define the SIZE. The values of the dimensions are determined by the size Figure 10 : First Feature

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 Introduction To Modeling
Lets make a another extrusion on top of the first. Choose the command
VIEW > ORIENTATION > STANDARD ORIENTATION to make sure you
are viewing the model correctly then choose INSERT > EXTRUDE from
the menu. Start to draw a new sketch as before by clicking PLACEMENT
then DEFINE. The sketch plane option in the Shape dialog option is
highlighted in pale yellow awaiting your input. The sketch plane for this
feature is the large flat surface of the first extrusion (see Figure 11a) so
click on this surface in the graphics window. Now click on the SKETCH
button.
We need to define some extra references in the sketcher. References are
used to locate dimensions but they also allow you to lock your drawings
onto existing edges. Whilst the references dialog is open click on the four
edges of the original extrusion you may just see some dotted lines
appear on them (see Figure 11b). Now close the references dialog and
draw the rectangle shown in Figure 11c you should notice the cursor
locking onto the edges. Change the dimension to 55 and exit sketcher by
clicking on .
Figure 12 : Second Feature
You should be getting the hang of extrusions by now but we will come
back to them later there is more to learn.

Rounds
The calculator looks like a brick lets improve its appearance by
smoothing off some of the edges. To do this we will use the INSERT >
ROUND command. The dashboard for the round command will appear as
shown in Figure 13.

Figure 11 : Second Sketch

Figure 13 : The Round Dashboard
To end sketching choose and click OK in the Section dialog. To The round command has some great functionality. In its simplest form you
complete this first feature type 3 into the depth field of the dashboard (See just need to click on the edges you want rounded. Click on the edge
Figure 7) and click the green tick to finish. highlighted in red in Figure 14a and change the value to 5 and click the
green tick to finish the round.

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 Introduction To Modeling
the surface you want to offset the edges of in this case it happens to be
the one highlighted in red in Figure 16. Type an offset distance of -5 the
negative value is needed to go the opposite way to the direction arrow. A
series of lines is created offset from the edge of the surface. Exit sketcher
with the tick icon .

Figure 14 : First Round

Repeat the round command a second time to make the round in Figure
14b.
You can add a round to more than one edge a time. Choose INSERT >
ROUND a third time and click on the four vertical edges holding down the
CTRL key for multiple selection. The size of this round will be 10.

This arrow indicates that

material will be removed
inside the sketch.

Figure 16 : The Screen Cut

Figure 15 : Multiple Rounds
If we wanted to add material we would be able to finish this feature now
The calculator is starting to look more interesting. Now lets return to the but we want to remove material. To change to remove material mode in
extrude command to remove material representing the screen. You should
by now know the command for extrusions and how to enter sketch mode. the dashboard press and also press the first icon to change the
The sketching plane is highlighted in red in Figure 16. direction of the protrusion. Type a depth of 2.
We dont need any extra references in this feature so you can close the How about some more rounds! Add a 3 round all around the top and
reference dialog. The edges of the screen will follow the outside edges of bottom edges of the calculator. Note that you only need to pick one edge
the calculator this is called offsetting. Choose the command SKETCH > on the top and one edge on the bottom and ProEngineer automatically
EDGE > OFFSET and in the Type dialog choose LOOP. Now pick on

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 Introduction To Modeling
goes round the whole model because all the edges are tangential Now for the clever bit! We will make multiple copies of this first button
(smoothly joined). using the PATTERN command. You need to select what you are going to
pattern first so click on the button in the graphics window it should turn
Also add a 2 round all around the top edge of the screen. Again you will
red. Now choose EDIT > PATTERN. The dashboard for the pattern
need two picks because of the sharp corner.
command will be displayed.

Figure 19 : Pattern Dashboard

There are several types of pattern. The one we need is dimension based.
You should have noticed that the dimensions of the button feature are
displayed for you. This is because the group of buttons will be made be
made by copying the first button and after each copy is made one of the
dimensions used to make the feature will be incremented by a specified
Figure 17 : More Rounds amount to move the copy into its new position. The questions are which
dimensions, how much is the increment and how many copies. This is
Patterns what you need to define now.

Thats the main part of the calculator completed. Now it is time to add First lets make 4 copies of the button along the phone. Click on the 20
some details. We will start by creating the buttons. You may be thinking dimension. An edit box appears into which you should type the increment
that these are just circular extrusions and you would be right but rather for the dimension after each copy is made. Type in 8 in other words
than drawing each one individually will make use of some of the repetition there will be 8 between each button along the phone. You must press the
features in CAD. The golden rule of CAD is dont draw anything twice if Enter button on the keyboard for your entry to be properly recognised. We
you can avoid it! said we wanted 4 buttons in this direction so type 4 into the second input
box from the left in the dashboard again you must press Enter.
We will start by drawing just one of the buttons. It is an extrusion of a
circle. The sketching plane is shown in red in Figure 18a and the If you ended pattern definition now you would get four buttons copied
dimensions are shown in Figure 18b. The height of the extrusion is 1.5. along the phone. We want buttons along AND across the phone. If you
look at the dashboard you will see the 4th and 5th input boxes are identical
nd rd th th
to the 2 and 3 which you have already filled in. The 4 and 5 input
boxes are for the second direction of copies.
To start to define the second direction click in the 5th (last) input box which
currently says Click here to add item. Now click on the 15 dimension and
type in -10 as the increment and press Enter. A negative value is required
because the 15 dimension needs to decrease each time a copy is made.
Type 4 into the 4th input box and press Enter to make 4 copies. You have
now completed the input and can end by clicking on the green tick. If you
have got it right you should see a rectangular array of 16 buttons.

Figure 18 : Button Extrusion

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 Introduction To Modeling

Figure 22 : Speaker Cut Sketch

Close sketcher and type a distance of 1 into the dashboard and choose
Figure 20 : Completed Pattern the remove material option . Finally a new option so far we have
Lets have a go at a second pattern. Lets say this is a Speak-&-Tell
been extruding from the sketch plane in one direction because the
calculator so we need a microphone and speaker. The speaker will be a
series of small cuts below the screen. As with the buttons we will make option has been active. Change this to and the extrusion will go both
one cut then make a pattern of copies.
sides of the sketch plane. Click the green tick icon to end the feature
The first cut can be seen in Figure 23. It is a circular cut which is off creation.
centre. There are no planes or surfaces which can be used as a sketching
plane so we will have to make a new datum plane before we start the
extrusion.
Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > PLANE. This command allows you
to create a datum. A dialog is displayed. This is an intelligent dialog as the
command changes dependant on what geometry you select. Click on the
RIGHT datum in the main graphics window and the command assumes
you want to create a datum plane parallel to RIGHT but a distance away
type in a distance of 10 and click OK. A new datum DTM1 is created.
Enter the INSERT > EXTRUSION command. The familiar dashboard is
displayed.

Figure 23 : Speaker Cut

Figure 21 : Extrude Dashboard
Now to make a pattern of this feature. This is a simpler pattern because it
Enter PLACEMENT and DEFINE and pick the new datum DTM1 as the only copies in one direction. In the browser window right click on the last
sketching plane. With the references dialog open create a reference by extrusion and choose PATTERN to pattern the slot. You should see the
clicking on the top edge of the calculator and draw a 10 circle in line with pattern dashboard. The left-most option will be set to DIMENSION. This
this reference as shown in Figure 22. option creates a pattern based on dimensions. We used it for the keypad.
If you tried to use this option for this pattern you would find there was not a

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 Introduction To Modeling
suitable dimension to use. So this time change the left-most option to EXTRUSION command then PLACEMENT and DEFINE and choose the
DIRECTION. This option simply copies the feature a number of times in a sketching plane shown in red in Figure 18a. Now draw three concentric
given direction. To define the direction click on the datum DTM1. The circles as seen in Figure 26a then draw three horizontal lines that cross
copies will be made in the direction perpendicular to this datum. (Note : right over the circles as shown in Figure 26b (Note the top line passes
you dont have to use datums to define direction you can also use through the centre of the circles).
surfaces, edges or axes etc.). Now click in the third option pane and type 5
If the dimensions arent exactly in Figure 26 new dimensions can be
(to make 5 copies) and in the fourth option pane and type 2 to set the

distance between the copies as shown in Figure 24. (Note : The icon added. Use the dimension tool then click with the left mouse button
can be used if the copies go in the wrong direction). on the geometry you want to dimension and then click with the middle
button to add and position the dimension. Any weak (grey) dimensions
made redundant by this new dimension will be automatically removed. If
ProEngineer is unable to delete dimensions because they are strong it
Figure 24 : The Direction Pattern Dashboard will warn you and ask you which dimension or constraint you want to
remove.
No second direction input is required so just press the green tick to make
the pattern.

Figure 26 : Initial Microphone Sketch

The lines are needed to define the shape of the microphone but there are
too many long lines they need trimming back and ProEngineer has just

the tool for the job. Locate the trim icon on the toolbar. When this
tool is selected and you move the cursor over a line part of the line (until it
crosses another line) highlights. Clicking on it deletes that PART of the
line. Go round now deleting parts of lines until you are left with the sketch
shown in Figure 27. Exit sketcher if you get an error message you have
not trimmed back all of the lines correctly and extrude a cut 1mm deep
into the model.
Figure 25 : Speaker Pattern
This trimming technique is one useful way of drawing more complex
Complex Sketcher Tools shapes. There are related tool icons in the panel next to the trim icon
including one which extends two lines/arcs to their intersection.
Finally we will add an extrusion to represent the microphone for the
Speak-&-Tell calculator. This is a simple extrusion again but we can use it
as a means of introducing some new sketcher tools. Start the INSERT >

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 Introduction To Modeling
Review
So what should you have learnt?
Note the gaps here How to create a new part
How to create extrusions to add and remove material.
How to sketch basic shapes.
How to create edge rounds.
How to create simple patterns.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
Next have a go at modelling the shapes below then move on to Tutorial 2
where you will attempt another model which uses different feature types.

Figure 27 : The Finished Microphone Sketch

Conclusion
That is our model completed. This is a simple representation model as it
doesnt have all of the parts defined correctly there are no internals and
the keys are stuck on rather than being a separate keypad sticking
through from the inside. In later tutorials you will see how you could model
this more accurately.
To make the calculator more interesting you could have a go at modelling Figure 28 : Some Sample Models Estimate the Dimensions
some numbers/symbols on each key. Choose the top of the key as a

sketching plane for an extrusion and use the icon in sketcher to

draw each number. Extrude them 0.5 above the keys so you can just see
them.

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 Intermediate Modeling
Not all shapes are made from extrusions so this second tutorial introduces
some new types of features. These include revolved features where a
curve is spun around a central axis (like working on a lathe or potters Figure 2 : The Revolve Dashboard
wheel) and simple sweeps where a cross-section curve is swept along a
centre line (ideal for making pipes). We will also return to the subject of Just like extrusions revolved features use sketches that are created in the
patterns and rounds showing some more options for these commands. same manner. Enter sketcher (PLACEMENT > DEFINE) choosing FRONT
as the sketching plane. Draw the two lines and the arc shown in Figure 3a.
The subject of this modeling exercise is a pair of headphones. Once again If you try to exit sketcher now you will get an error message No axis of
this will be a representation model made as a single part. In reality revolution. All revolved features must have and axis of revolution a
headphones are made from many pieces assembled together and this is centre line around which the curve is revolved. This is drawn using the
the way you should use ProEngineer if you were going to manufacture the
headphones. As a designer looking at the overall finished product it is Centreline tool found by clicking the small arrow next to the normal
often easier to model the complete design until a final decision to
manufacture is made then return to break the design down into individual line tool . Select this tool now and draw a centreline on top of the
detailed parts later. horizontal line you have already drawn it should lock onto the reference
line.

Figure 3 : Revolve Sketch and Feature

Exit sketcher. The default option for revolve is to revolve the sketch for a
Figure 1 : The Finished Headphones full 360 degrees (see dashboard) which is exactly what we want so just
click on the green tick to finish.
Revolved Features The next step is a simple extrusion for which you should not need much
help but it gives a chance for us to discuss the options for length of
Now you understand the basic principles of using ProEngineer such as extrusion.
using the dashboard, defining sketch planes and sketching we will not
cover these in detail unless something new is needed.
Start ProEngineer, Create a new part called headphones using the
mmns_part_solid option. Choose the command INSERT > REVOLVE and
notice the revolve feature dashboard appears.

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 Intermediate Modeling
We need a new datum plane to draw this trajectory curve on. Choose
BLIND you type in a value as the INSERT > MODEL DATUM > PLANE then click on the RIGHT datum
depth of the extrusion.
plane then whilst holding the CTRL key click on the axis through the centre
SYMETRIC the extrusion goes
of the last extrusion. The Datum plane dialog should now contain two
both sides of the sketch plane. references and next to the RIGHT datum reference it will say Offset - click
on this and choose parallel.
THRU NEXT the extrusion stops
at the next surface.

THRU ALL the extrusion goes

through all geometry in the part.

THRU UNTIL the extrusion goes

to selected surface or plane.

THRU SELECTED the extrusion

goes to a plane thru selected point,
curve, surface or plane.

Figure 4 : Thru Options

Sketch on to the FRONT datum plane and extrude both sides by a

distance of 50.

Figure 6 : A New Datum Plane

Now we can draw the trajectory curve for the sweep feature. Choose
INSERT > MODEL DATUM > SKETCH and choose DTM1 (the datum
plane just created) as the sketch plane. Draw the sketch shown in Figure
8. Notice the two extra vertical references created on the ends of the
extrusion. The easiest way of drawing this sketch is to first draw 5 straight

lines then add fillets at each corner.

Sketcher has some intelligence built into it in the form of geometric rules or
Figure 5 : Double Sided Extrusion constraints. You may have noticed this intelligence in operation for
example lines drawn near vertical or horizontal have the letters V or H next
to them and lines drawn with similar length are given a reference like L1.
Sweep Features These constraints are either automatically assigned by sketcher as you
Now we need to make a wire to attach the phones to the head strap. draw or you can manually tell ProEngineer to add constraints by using the
There is an easy feature for this called a sweep. This requires two curves
the centreline of the wire known as the trajectory and the second is the sketcher constraint icon . See Figure 7 for an explanation of all of the
cross section of the wire which in this case will be a simple circle though constraints available to you.
it can be any shape you want.

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 Intermediate Modeling
Now to create the 3D geometry. Choose INSERT > VARIABLE SECTION
Align points or Move a point to Make two lines SWEEP. The SWEEP dashboard should appear.
lines to vertical the middle of a perpendicular.
or horizontal. line.

Figure 9 : Sweep Dashboard

Make lines or Make two points

co-incident. Notice that the default for sweep is to create a surface so click on the
arcs tangential.
first icon to ensure a solid is created. Now click on the datum curve
you have just drawn to select it as the trajectory curve. The sketch icon
Make two points will now be active so click on it and you will be taken directly into
symmetrical about Make two lines Make two lines
or arcs equal. parallel. sketcher the sketch plane is defined automatically on the start of the
a centreline. trajectory curve. This sketch is defining the cross section of the sweep so
Figure 7 : Constraints Explanation just draw a 2 circle centred on the horizontal and vertical references
automatically created on the end of the trajectory curve. Leave sketcher
and click the green tick to finish.
Now add equal radii constraints to this sketch using then clicking on
two radii on opposite sides of the curve to make them equal. Notice that
this means that fewer dimensions are needed.

Figure 10 : The Sweep

Lets make a second sweep to show you that you dont need to draw
curves first. You can use the edges of the existing models if you want. We
add an earmuff around the phone (you could have created this as part of
the original revolve feature in this case). Choose INSERT > VARIABLE

Figure 8 : The Datum Sketch SECTION SWEEP then click on the first icon to make a solid. Now, in
the main graphics window click on the circular edge of the phone half of
After exiting sketcher you will see the sketched datum in the main graphics the circle is selected in red. Now hold the SHIFT key down and click on the
window.
other half to select it as part of the same curve. Enter sketch mode

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 Intermediate Modeling
and draw a 10 circle centered on the automatic references. Exit sketcher Now to add the 3D geometry. Choose INSERT > VARIABLE SECTION
and end the feature definition.
SWEEP then click on the first icon to make a solid. Now, in the main
graphics window click on the curve you have just drawn. Enter sketch

mode and draw the oval in Figure 13 centered on the automatic

references. Exit sketcher and end the feature definition.

Figure 11 : The Ear Muff

A final chance to practice sweeps - for this tutorial at least. We will make
the head strap to show you dont have to use circular cross sections. We
will need to draw the curve for this sweep so choose INSERT > MODEL
DATUM > SKETCH and choose FRONT as the sketch plane. Draw the
sketch shown in Figure 12. Remember that additional constraints can be

added using the icons. Add a vertical constraint between the top end of Figure 13 : Head Strap

the arc and the centre of the arc using the icon. Now this is quite To tidy up the strap add a double sided extrusion of a diameter 6 circle
tricky till you get the hang of it! - the left hand end of the arc is aligned with that is 35 long around the join of the strap to the wire.

centre of the wire by using the icon and repeatedly RIGHT clicking
near the centre of the wire until the END:CURVE symbol highlights.
Exit sketcher.

Figure 14 : Extrusion

More Patterns
In the introductory modelling tutorial you were introduced to patterns
multiple copies of features. Those simple patterns were rectangular or
linear patterns. Here we will introduce polar patterns (based on angles)
and rather clever Fill patterns unique to ProEngineer.

Figure 12 : Head Strap Trajectory Curve

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 Intermediate Modeling
Fill Patterns leave that copy out of the pattern. Close the Dashboard with the green
tick.
Fill patterns are very easy and impressive! Like all patterns you first have
to create something to pattern. So lets make a cut into the earpiece for the
sound to get out. Make a 1 diameter extruded cut 0.5 deep at the centre of
the flat face of the earpiece.

Figure 17 : Fill Boundary and Diamond Pattern

Polar Patterns
The fill pattern is very versatile and can be used in many situations but you
should be aware of other ways of making patterns. So here are some
examples of patterns based on angles polar patterns.
First we will make a cut into the back of the phone. Choose INSERT >
Figure 15 : Initial Cut for the Pattern
EXTRUDE and enter sketch mode choosing DTM1 as the sketch plane.
Now to make multiple copies of this cut. Right click on the cut you have The sketch you need to draw is shown in Figure 18.
just made in the model tree then choose EDIT > PATTERN. The default
type of pattern is to define by Dimensions as shown by the first list box.
Change this first list box to the Fill option and the appearance of the
dashboard should change to that shown in Figure 16.

Figure 16 : The Fill Pattern Dashboard

This type of pattern fits as many copies of the feature inside a boundary as
it can. So the first step is to draw the boundary. Click on the
REFERENCES > DEFINE and select the flat face of the earpiece as the
sketch plane. Draw a 35 circle. This circle will form the outer limit of the
copies all copies will fit inside this circle.
Figure 18 : Polar Pattern Sketch
Exit sketcher and you will all ready see to black dots representing the
copies which will be made. They are in the shape of a square as shown by Exit sketcher. Make sure the option for removing material through the back
the 3rd list box. Change this to Diamond and see the difference and of the phone is set before closing the dashboard. Now add a round feature
change the 4th list box the spacing to 5. Note that with this type of around the edge of this cut to make the appearance better.
pattern you can also click on any of the black dots (they turn white) to

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 Intermediate Modeling
NOTE : If you have used an earlier version of ProEngineer you may be
surprised that this sketch does not have an angle dimension. A new
pattern option makes this type of pattern extremely easy so you dont need
this complication.

Figure 19 : Polar Cut Figure 21 : Finished Polar Cut

Ready for the pattern? Right click on the cut (not the round) feature you There is one more polar cut to add a series of holes through the head
have just made in the model tree then choose EDIT > PATTERN. The strap. These are created in the same way as the last AXIS pattern. Before
default type of pattern is to define by Dimensions as shown by the first list you make the feature and pattern lets prepare by making an axis around
box but we want an AXIS pattern so change the first list box now and see which the copies will take place. Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM >
the dashboard change to the one shown in Figure 20. AXIS. Pick the inside cylindrical surface of the head strap make sure you
pick the surface and not an edge. An Axis will be created through the
centre of the strap. Close the axis dialog.
As always we need to draw the cut which will later be patterned. Choose
Figure 20 : The Axis Pattern Dashboard INSERT > EXTRUDE. Enter Sketcher choosing the TOP datum as the
The first step in this pattern is to choose an axis around which the pattern sketching plane. Now choose the end of the headphone as a reference
and draw the simple sketch shown in Figure 22. Exit sketcher. Make sure
will be made (the centre of rotation). Make sure axes are displayed the options for removing material entirely through the head strap is set
then pick on the axis at the centre of the earpiece. This may be a little before closing the dashboard.
tricky as there are lots of axes for the other holes here the one you want
will have a low number probably A2. Now click on the third list box and
change the 4 to 8 as the number of copies. Click on the fourth list box and
type in an increment of 45. There is no second copy direction in this case
so close the dashboard with the green tick. You should see 8 cuts around
the phone. Right click on the round feature then choose EDIT >
PATTERN. The fillet is automatically propagated around each of the cuts
because the original cut to which this round belonged was itself
patterned!

Figure 22 : Cut Sketch and Feature

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 7
 Intermediate Modeling
To complete simply RIGHT click on the cut in the browser on the left and MIRROR pick the flat end of the head strap as the mirror plane. The
choose PATTERN. Choose the AXIS option and pick the axis you created headphones should be complete!

earlier, choose 5 cuts and type an increment of 22.5 (use to make

Review
sure the pattern goes the right way). Close the Dashboard.
So what should you have learnt?
Elliptical Rounds How to create revolutions to add and remove material.
Use your previous experience to add a round to each edge of the first of How to use more complex sketch functions.
the holes you have just created. Remember to hold the CTRL key to select How to create fill patterns.
the two edges (top and bottom of the hole). Before exiting the round How to create polar patterns.
dashboard click on the Sets menu and you will see the dialog in Figure 23. How to create elliptical rounds.
How to mirror the whole model.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

Figure 23 : Round Sets

This dialog allows you to vary the type of round. Change the word Circular
to the option D1 x D2 Conic and you will get two radius values in the
dashboard to define a conic round. Change these values to 2 and 1
respectively look on the model to check you get them the right way
round so that the large radius is on the outside of the strap.
Right click on the latest round feature then choose EDIT > PATTERN. The
fillet is automatically propagated around each of the cuts because the
original cut to which this round belonged was itself patterned!

Mirroring
Finally to create the other half of the headphones click on the name
HEADPHONES.PRT at the top of the browser window then choose EDIT >

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
Once you have got the hang of drawing with splines draw the curve shown
When modeling any part you are likely to be working to certain parameters
in Figure 1. Note it has 5 control points and the first and last points lie on
which can be used to create construction geometry in your model. In the
the references and are horizontally inline. Exit sketcher.
case of this remote control unit lets assume that the design specification
states the part should be no longer than 150. Now lets use that Repeat the previous command and draw a second, separate curve. This
information to define two datum planes. Choose INSERT > MODEL one is just a simple horizontal line aligned to all references as shown in
DATUM > PLANE and click on the RIGHT datum in the graphics window. Figure 2.
The Offset option is set automatically in the dialog box so type in a value
of 150. In the Properties tab type a name of ENDLINE and click OK.
Repeat this making a similar datum called MIDLINE at a distance of 75.
That has set up the reference geometry for us to use.
We are now going to design the outside shape of the remote. As you can
see from the picture this is a complex shape and the simple EXTRUDE
and REVOLVE commands would be totally inadequate. We are going to
use a command we have already introduced VARIABLE SECTION Figure 2 : Second Control Curve - Straight Line
SWEEP but use it to its full capabilities. These first two curves define the shape of the remote when viewed from
the front. Now we will draw two curves to control the shape when viewed
Sketching with Splines from above. Draw another datum curve using the TOP datum as the
You may remember this command relies on existing curves so we need to sketch plane aligning the ends of the curve as shown in Figure 3.
draw some curves now. Like many complex shapes, lines and arcs arent
suitable for the shapes we want we will use a free form curve known as
a spline.
Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > SKETCH and choose FRONT as
the sketch plane. On entering sketch mode click on the ENDLINE datum
as an additional datum. The is used to create splines. Choose it now
and have a practice it takes a little getting used to. Each click of the Figure 3 : First Top Spline
mouse defines a point on the curve and ProEngineer smoothly interpolates
The fourth and final curve is identical to the last one so simply click on the
between these points. Click the mouse button to finish drawing a spline.
last curve in the browser window then choose EDIT > MIRROR and pick
You can then use the selection tool to edit the curve by dragging any the FRONT datum as the mirror plane. You should now have 4 curves and
of the control points. are ready to create the solid.

Figure 1 : First control Spline Figure 4 : Four Curves Defined

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
Sweeping To make the flat ends of the sweep more interesting we will use and
extrusion to cut them. You will need to create two separate extruded cuts
To make the solid choose INSERT > VARIABLE SECTION SWEEP and using the TOP datum as the sketch plane. The sketches for these are
click on the straight line curve FIRST (it will be called origin) then whilst shown in Figure 7. They must be drawn as two separate cuts.
holding the CTRL key the other three curves. Choose the Sweep As Solid

icon then enter sketch mode where you will draw the cross-
section of the sweep. You should see two references passing through the
end of the origin curve and if you look carefully a reference has been
added to the end of each of the four curves shown as small crosses.
Draw the section shown in Figure 5 locking on to these references.

Figure 5 : Sweep Cross Section

After leaving the sketcher you should see a prediction of the final shape in
the graphics window if you dont you have done something wrong.
Check you have selected the curves in the correct order and drawn the
correct section. Finish the sweep feature by pressing the green tick icon

. Figure 7 : Separate End Cuts

Blending
Dont try this now but this is not the only way of creating such a shape. An
alternative which might be more appropriate in some circumstances is
blending. With blending you draw (or select) several cross section curves
then create (using INSERT > BLEND) a solid which morphs between
Figure 6 : The Sweep these.

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
> SAVE A COPY and type the name BatteryCover in the New Name field
you will have a copy of the current model saved. Later we can go back to
this second model and EDIT DEFINTION on the last feature (the cut) and
reverse its direction to start to define the battery cover in the sure
knowledge that they will exactly match each other. Two models for the
price of one!

Figure 8 : A Blend
Try this in your own time in a different part file.

Cut Reversal
Figure 10 : Reversing a Cut
The next step is to add a battery compartment. Although this is a simple
Now we will make two screw holes at the opposite end to the battery
shape we will use it to illustrate a useful technique. Start the extrusion like
compartment to join the parts of the remote together. First create a new
all others selecting FRONT as the sketch plane and drawing the simple
datum plane Offset from the RIGHT datum by 30 and call it HOLES. Make
shape in Figure 9. Notice the extra reference that has been added to the
a revolve feature then draw the sketch in Figure 11 on this datum. Exit
bottom edge of the sweep. Exit sketcher.
sketcher and choose the Remove material icon to make the first hole.
The second hole is identical so choose EDIT > MIRROR then select the
cut feature and pick the FRONT plane to make a copy on the opposite
side of FRONT datum. Finish the mirror feature by pressing the green tick
icon .

Figure 9 : Battery Compartment

This cut (dont forget to press to remove material) needs to go right

through the sweep in both directions. The correct way to achieve this to
click on the Options menu in the dashboard and choose Through All in
both the Side 1 and Side 2 fields. Now click on the preview button in
the dashboard. You should see one of the shapes in Figure 10. Click on
again then click on the second button in the dashboard to
reverse the material to be removed by the cut. Preview and you should
see the other shape in Figure 10. One of these shapes is the start of the
remote control and the other is the start of the battery cover which will
exactly match the remote. So finish the extrusion ensuring you have the
correct side to make the main body of the remote. If you now choose FILE Figure 11 : Screw Holes Revolved Sketch

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
Now it is time to hollow out the remote control using the INSERT > SHELL ProEngineer has a special function to avoid this problem. It is like an
function. Choose a thickness of 1. Which surfaces should be removed intelligent extrusion command that automatically mates to adjoining
from the shell? Obviously the large flat surface on the top of the remote surfaces correctly its called a rib.
but the holes also need to be open. Select the circular surfaces at the
bottom of both holes too (hold the CTRL key to select several surfaces).

Figure 14 : Surfaces for Intersection

Figure 12 : Shell Creation
Before making the rib we need to prepare some geometry. The rib
The surfaces of the holes look a little fragile they need some supports to command requires you to draw a shape to enclose the material to be
ensure they dont get broken off. We will add a thin web of material added. So we need a line which touches the outside of the hole surfaces
between the hole surface and the outside wall of the shell. You might think and also touches the inside of the shell. The hole surfaces have a true
this is a simple extruded protrusion but it is easy to make an invalid model silhouette so you can easily create a reference for that and draw to that
if you do that. The correct term is a non-manifold model because the reference. But the problem is the inside of the shell since that is a
extrusion just touches the hole surface tangentially it does not mate with freeform surface it does not have a silhouette we need to make one. The
the surface correctly and there is a gap. line we need to reference is a curve along the intersection between the
HOLES datum and the inside of the shell. To create this curve select on
Gap between two surfaces. internal surface of shell shown in Figure 14. The first time you pick this
surface you actually select the whole shell feature we only want one
surface of the shell. Pick again in the same place and Pro Engineer will
look inside the shell and find the surface (depending on how you drew the
original section curve for the body - Figure 5 - you will either select the
whole internal surface or just half of it). Next with the CTRL key held pick
the HOLES datum plane. The geometry is selected so now choose EDIT >
INTERSECTION. You should see the intersection curve created.
Now we are ready to create the rib feature. The command is INSERT >
RIB try it now.

Non manifold model. Surface

touches a cylinder tangentially.

Figure 13 : Invalid Extrusion

Figure 15 : The Rib Dashboard

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
Go into sketch mode (REFERENCES > DEFINE) picking the HOLES The next step is the battery holder. This is not complicated it is made up of
datum you created earlier as the sketching plane. The curve you just two extrusions and a cut. The cut is sketched onto the side of battery
created can be picked as a reference curve along with external surface of holder. Rather than making a second cut on the other side you can use
the holes. Draw a line between these two curves. Because the ends of this the EDIT > MIRROR command to make a copy.
line a locked onto the references which themselves are locked onto the
underlying surfaces the rib will correctly join to these surfaces. Full Round
Here is a chance to demonstrate a new type of round. Up till now all
rounds have been edge rounds rounds applied to an existing edge.
There are other options for rounds in ProEngineer for example the FULL
ROUND. We can use this to add a round to the end of slots (Note : this
could have been added by drawing the correct shape for the initial cut but
then we wouldnt have had an excuse to demonstrate full rounds!).
Choose INSERT > ROUND as before and select the two edges shown in
NOTE : This command can
Figure 18 using the CTRL key. By default you will get edge rounds on
sometimes fail dependant
on the exact shape of the these selected edges. Click on the SETS tab in the dashboard and you will
outside surface. see a button called Full Round this button is only active if you have
exactly two edges selected. Click on this to change the type of round and
Figure 16 : The Sketch Curve and Rib you should see the round created.
Close the sketch. Check that the arrow drawn on the curve points towards
the material which you want added if it doesnt use the FLIP option in the
references menu to change it. Type a thickness of 2 and end the
dashboard with the green tick. Create a second rib (mirror?) on the
opposite side.

Figure 18 : Full Round

Now we want a round on the other slot to. Since for a full round you can
only have two edges selected we cant select any more edges. You could
Figure 17 : Battery Holder close the dashboard and repeat the procedure above but there is an
alternative that allows you to group similar rounds together. In the Sets

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
menu you should see the name Set1 and below this the words NEW SET Using Offset Curves
click on this and Set2 will be created and you can now select the two
edges on the other slot creating two rounds in one command. To finish this part we will add a cut to the top edge to make a dust seal
when this part is assembled with the keypad. As always there are several
ways of approaching this we will use a simple extrusion.
Using Projection Curves
Choose INSERT > EXTRUDE and pick the TOP datum as the sketching
Now we will add a simple logo to the remote. This is a letter S surrounded
plane. We will use a command to make the curve we need which was
by a circle. If the surface was flat this would be a simple matter of drawing
introduced in the Introduction To Modelling Tutorial. The edges of the seal
a circle and two arcs for the S then using the SWEEP command to cut
will follow the outside edges of the remote. Chose the command SKETCH
away material. But the surface isnt flat so how do we draw a curve onto a
non flat surface? The answer is we cant! But we can project curves onto a > EDGE > OFFSET and in the Type dialog choose CHAIN. Now pick
surface. Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > SKETCH and pick the TOP on an outside edge of the remote one edge highlights. Now pick on an
datum as the sketching plane. Draw a circle and two arcs to make the S adjacent edge the whole loop around the remote highlights and you
logo. Exit sketcher. choose ACCEPT in the side menu. Enter an offset distance of 0.5 a
negative value may be needed to go the opposite way to the direction
Now click on the curve in the browser panel and choose EDIT > arrow. A series of lines is created offset from the edge of the surface. Exit
PROJECT. In the project dashboard pick the External surface of the sketcher.
remote (depending on how you drew the original section curve for the
body - Figure 5 - you will may need to select twice using the CTRL key to Choose the options to remove 1 material into the remote and thats it the
get the whole surface). Close the dashboard. A copy of the curve will now
be sitting on the surface. model is finished. Remember, you can use the second icon to
change the material side to be removed.
Now you have the curves you can use the INSERT > VARIABLE
SECTION SWEEP command using these curves and a circular cross-
section to cut the grooves in the surface. You will have to do a separate
sweep for each of the two curves. If you need reminding how to do these
simple sweeps refer to the section Sweep Features in the Intermediate
Modelling Tutorial.

Figure 20 : Completed Remote with Dust Seal

Figure 19 : Using Projection Curves
The Battery Cover
Remember that we saved the model earlier to the name BatteryCover.
Open this model now and you will see the remote at a much earlier stage
of its development. We saved this so that we could easily make the cover
for the battery. The last feature in the browser should be a cut. Right click

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 7
 Advanced Modeling
on this and choose EDIT DEFINITION. This takes you back to the ROUND
dashboard with all the options set. Reverse the side of the cut to remove
Make a FULL ROUND
material by pressing the second icon. Close the dashboard and you on the end of both
sliders.
should have the battery cover. Here are some pictures to help you finish
the model. Your dimensions may vary a little from those stated feel free
to use a bit of creativity.
REVOLVE
Thats the both halves of the model completed. In a later tutorial you will
Remove material for a learn how to assemble these two pieces together.
finger grip.
Sketch on FRONT
and choose 360
degree option.

ROUND
Add 4 round

SHELL
Remove 2 faces and
choose 1 thickness.

EXTRUSION
Figure 21 : The Completed Battery Cover
Sketch on TOP. Mirror
to make second side.
Use Extrude To Next Review
option.
So what should you have learnt?
How to create complex surfaces.

EXTRUSION
How to make thin walls with shell.

Make a new datum 8 How to create ribs.

away from front face
of cover. Sketch on How to create full rounds.
this datum. Mirror to
make second side. How to use projection curves.
Use Extrude To Next
option. Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 7
 Drawing Layout
choosing the A0 option is not sensible since by the time the page is shrunk
Creation of drawings from PRO/Engineer models is a straightforward task.
to fit on an A4 sheet the text will be unreadable. For student work it is
Completing a drawing can be broken down into two stages:-
acceptable to choose an A3 format and plot this onto an A4 sheet as this
1. Drawing Layout - Elements making up a drawing are brought gives more room for dimensions to be shown. Another way of specifying
together. These include selecting a drawing sheet, positioning the size is to choose a Template or a Format. This is like starting with a
views of your model on the sheet, adding cross-section or scaled pre-printed drawing sheet with boxes for drawing title and other
views, etc. information but we will show you how to add this in later. For this model
2. Drawing Detail - Adding information such as dimensions, choose Empty, Landscape and select the A3 standard size.
geometric tolerances and drawing notes to your drawing.
This document covers the first of these stages, drawing layout, the second
stage is covered in a companion document ProTutor05.
This drawing layout tutorial covers the following procedures
Creating a drawing sheet and assigning a model to the drawing.
Positioning drawing views onto the drawing sheet. The position of
the first view of the specified model is important since it
determines the layout of other views. Subsequent views are
placed as projections of this view and PRO/Engineer automatically
determines the view orientation based on the projection mode.
Additional views can be placed which are not projections. For
example it is often useful to add a 3D view (an isometric
projection) to the drawing as this can aid visualisation of the part.
Cross-sections are also a useful tool for communicating ideas. Figure 1: Creating a new Drawing
Cross-sections, either planar or dog legged, can be added and A new window will be displayed in which your drawing will be created with
numbered quite easily in PRO/Engineer. the file extension .DRW. If you have chosen one of the standard sheet
The drawing tutorial is based on the main housing of a valve. The model sizes a rectangle will be displayed indicating the extents of the drawing
for this part can be found at the location where you found this document. sheet. All drawing should take place inside this rectangle. Figure 2 shows
Copy the model called valve_housing to your directory before you start. the new drawing sheet, as it should appear on your screen.

Creating a Drawing
A new drawing is created using FILE > NEW choosing the type as
DRAWING and giving a suitable name (valve_housing suggested). At this
point the drawing format definition dialog appears, as shown in Figure 1.
The default model will be set to none (unless you already have a model
open). Use the browse button to locate the model you want to create a
drawing of in this case valve_housing.
Also from this dialog box the size of the drawing can be specified. When
you are choosing the size bear in mind the size of printer or plotter that is
available for the final output. If only an A4 printer is available then
Figure 2: A Drawing Sheet

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 4
 Drawing Layout
To position the first view of your model choose INSERT > DRAWING
VIEW > GENERAL (if by mistake you left the model name as none in the
original dialog box you will be asked to enter the name of the model that
you want to detail - choose valve_housing). After the system has located
the model you are asked to indicate the position of the view within the
drawing. Click inside the drawing in the lower right-hand quadrant (see
Figure 3) and a default view of the housing model will be shown.
Next the DRAWING VIEW dialog will appear. This dialog offers all of the
options for setting up views.

Click here to Figure 4 : The First View is Orientated

position the
view To complete the views choose INSERT > DRAWING VIEW > GENERAL
again. Locate the view in the top-left quadrant and accept the default
orientation by pressing OK in the DRAWING VIEW dialog.
Note : If you want some isometric view other than the default it is best to
open the model and using the dynamic rotation option using the middle
mouse button set up the view that you want and save it under a name

Figure 3 : The First View is Placed and Awaiting Orientation using the ORIENT tab in the VIEW > VIEW MANAGER dialog.
Although the view is located on the drawing it is not correctly orientated. The drawing should now look like Figure 5. If any of the views are incorrect
The VIEW ORIENTATION section of the dialog allows you to change this. click on the view to highlight it with a red outline then choose EDIT >
If you click on GEOMETRY REFERENCES this works in the same way as DELETE. You will be asked to confirm removal then you can add it again.
orientating the display and setting up sketch planes. Choose TOP in
reference 1 and click on DTM2, then choose LEFT in reference 2 and click
on DTM3. The view should be orientated to show a side view as in Figure
4. Choose OK in the DRAWING VIEW dialog.
The projections from this first view can now be created. Choose INSERT >
DRAWING VIEW > PROJECTION and click to the left of the first view.
The view is projected from the currently selected view so click on the first
view you created (a red box should highlight around the view) then repeat
the process to add a third view this time clicking above the first view. You
should now have three projected views on the drawing.

Figure 5: Four Views Positioned

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 4
 Drawing Layout
The views are positioned but they can be moved if you wish. You may The view is not sectioned yet so select it and choose EDIT >
decide for example that an extra view is needed showing a cross-section. PROPERTIES (or double click on the view). The DRAWING VIEW dialog
To accommodate this, the first view you placed needs to be moved to the should appear. On the left of this dialog click on SECTIONS then click on

left. The movement of views is probably locked check the icon on 2D CROSS-SECTION and finally the icon. An old-fashioned style
the toolbar is NOT pressed. Now click on the bottom right view (the one menu will appear on which you should accept the defaults of a PLANNAR |
you placed first). A dotted box will be drawn around it with grab handles SINGLE cross-section. After choosing DONE you will need to enter a
at the corners (if you dont get the grab handles you need to press the name for the section. This is usually a single capital letter such as Z. Next
choose DTM1 to indicate where the model is to be cut to create the
icon). Now click and drag the view to the left. Note that the view section. Choose APPLY in the DRAWING VIEW dialog to see the section
above it also moves because it is a projection from the view that was and if it is correct choose CLOSE.
moved. The first view placed can be moved freely. Projected views can If you feel the cross-section lines are not suitable, for example the spacing
only be moved along the projection. If you tried to move the top view to the between the lines is too wide, then click on the cross hatching to select it
left or right it would not move, it could only be moved up or down. Try it and choose EDIT > PROPERTIES (or just double click on the hatching).
and see. On the old-fashioned style menu to the right choose SPACING and
OVERALL | HALF.
You may have noticed that hidden details (the lines showing what is going
on inside the model) are shown on all views. It is not normal practice to
show these lines on isometric or sectioned views. So to finally tidy up the
drawing the cross-section (bottom right) and general view (top left) need to
have hidden detail lines removed. Select one of these two views by
clicking on it then choose EDIT > PROPERTIES. The familiar DRAWING
VIEW dialog appears you need to choose the VIEW DISPLAY option on
the left. In the DISPLAY STYLE list box choose NO HIDDEN. APPLY and
CLOSE the dialog. The finished drawing layout is shown in Figure 7.

Figure 6: More Room Available

Having made room for an extra view to the right of the first view you can
now add a cross-sectioned view. A cross-section is a view with some of
the model cut away to reveal the inside. Choose INSERT > DRAWING
VIEW > AUXILIARY. If this is greyed out it is because you have a view
highlighted in click in the graphics window away from any view to make
sure none are highlighted in red. An auxiliary view is one that is aligned
with the primary view, like a projection, but the view orientation can be
chosen independently. To orient the view you will be asked to select a
datum as the front surface for this view pick on DTM1 in the bottom left
view. Click to the right of the first view to locate the view on the sheet. Figure 7: Finished Layout

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 4
 Drawing Layout
To fit the views onto the sheet Pro Engineer has chosen an overall scale. The format has boxes where you can fill in your name and other
The text in the bottom left of the graphics window tells you what the scale information. To do this choose INSERT > NOTE choose the options from
is (probably 1.00 in this case). You can change this to increase or the menu and then choose MAKE NOTE and click to position your text
decrease the size of all of the views giving you more or less room for then type in the text you want to appear. Press RETURN twice to end text
dimensions to be added. Simply double click on the scale text at the entry.
bottom left and type in a new value try 0.5 in this case to make the views
smaller.

Figure 8: Resized Layout Figure 10 : Drawing with Format

At the start of the drawing process we said we would show you how to add
a drawing format (information boxes etc.) to your drawing so here is how Review
to do it. Choose FILE > PAGE SETUP and you will see the dialog in
So what should you have learnt?
Figure 9. It shows you that you already have a format in the drawing called
A3Size. This is the rectangle bounding the drawing area. Click on this and How to create a drawing.
Browse to change it to b.frm (the standard formats distributed with Pro How to create general, projection and sections views.
Engineer are only in American sizes where B is the nearest to A3). Click How to reposition views.
OK and you should see the format sheet around your drawing. How to add a drawing format.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

What Next?
You need to experiment with creating drawings of your own parts perhaps
investigating how to do scaled views.
Now you know how to layout the drawing it would be good to move on to
annotating the drawing with dimensions and other information. This is
covered in the next tutorial.

Figure 9 : Page Setup Dialog

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 4
 Drawing Detailing
Creation of drawings from ProEngineer models is a straightforward task.
Completing a drawing can be broken down into two stages:-
1. Drawing Layout elements making up a drawing are brought
together. These include selecting a drawing sheet, positioning
views of your model on the sheet, adding cross-section or scaled
views.
2. Drawing Detail Adding annotation information such as
dimensions, geometric tolerances and drawing notes to your
drawing.
The companion document Drawing Layout covers the first stage of the
process and should be worked through first, the second stage is covered
here.
Since the model has already been built all of the dimensions to fully define
the model have already been entered it would be stupid to have to enter all
of these dimensions again on the drawing. ProEngineer is not stupid and
does not expect you to be either! So the first stage of the detailing process
alows you to show the existing dimensions on the views. Having done this Figure 1 : Show and Erase Dialog
you will probably find that the position of the dimensions on the drawing
needs changing to make the drawing easier to read. Certain dimensions In the dialog box which appears click on the button with a picture of a
may not be displayed on the most suitable view so this can be changed
too. Finally certain cosmetic features may not be to your liking so minor dimension and then press SHOW ALL and confirm your action.
changes can be made to dimensions for example the arrow heads can be The confirmation step is required because with a big drawing showing all
flipped around. of the dimensions can create a very confusing jumble. You dont always
have to crack a nut with a sledge hammer there are other choices
Showing Dimensions available to you as you can see from the dialog. In this case the drawing is
not too complex so this is probably the easiest way however it would be
You should already have completed the companion tutorial so you should usefull for you to investigate the other options. After showing the
have a drawing called valve_housing which can be retreived using FILE > dimensions you are left in preview mode where you have the choice of
OPEN. Having retreived the drawing lets take the sledge hammer picking dimensions to erase or as we require in this case simply pressing
approach and show on this drawing ALL of the dimensions which were the OK menu option to keep all the dimensions shown. The result of this
used to create the model. Choose VIEW > SHOW AND ERASE and you command is shown below. The drawing clearly needs tidying up!
should see the dialog in Figure 1.

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 5
 Drawing Detailing
Although this is better there is still work to do. The 28, 14 and 25
dimensions all refer to the boss and its central holes. Is this the best place
to show these dimensions? This feature can be seen much better on the
sectioned view. Why not add the dimensions here instead? You will have
to zoom out a bit before you can do this so that you can see the section

view as well. Use the selection tool and select these three dimensions
now (hold the CTRL key to select multiple dimensions). Choose EDIT >
MOVE ITEM TO VIEW and point to the view that you want them to be
moved to in this case the sectioned view.
Take a closer look at the section view and you will see that the switched
dimensions need tidying again. Rather than moving them individually there
is an automated way of tidying up the dimensions. You will need to ensure
the three dimensions you just moved are selected then choose EDIT >
CLEANUP > DIMENSIONS. Set the two tabs in the dialog box to the
values shown in Figure 4 and then APPLY to see the changes.

Figure 2 : All of the dimensions shown on a drawing.

Positioning Dimensions
To see how to tidy up the drawing lets concentrate on the view in the top
middle. Zoom in to this view to see it better. The dimensions are all
overlapping the drawing so the first thing to do is to position them better.

Use the selection tool and move each dimension in turn. Click on the
dimension to select it, to start moving click again, drag the dimension then
when the dimension is positioned better click a third time. Work on this
part of the drawing now until the appearance is as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 4 : Cleaning Up Dimensions

Now return to the original top view. If you look at this view you will
probably decide that the 120o dimension is not required, since this
o
information is inferred from the 60 dimension. We have shown a
dimension that we dont need. The original command we used to show the
dimensions can also be used to erase them again. From the pull down
menu choose VIEW > SHOW AND ERASE. In the dialog box which
appears (see Figure 1) click on the ERASE button and make sure the
Figure 3 : Improved Positioning of Dimensions

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 Drawing Detailing
these names, go back to the properties dialog for dimension we were
button with a picture of a dimension is pressed and then select editing earlier. Edit the note replacing the 8 with &d50 and adding on
the 120o dimension and finally OK and the dimension will disappear. &d49 PCD to the end (PCD stands for Pitch Circle Diameter meaning the
CLOSE the dialog. holes are equally spaced around a circle). DO NOT FORGET TO
PRECEED THE NAMES WITH &. The note should now be correct and will
Now some of the dimensions have been moved or erased there is more be automatically updated if any changes are made to the model. The
room in this view so try to position the dimensions better. You will probably
original dimensions 8 and 38 can be ERASED to avoid duplication.
find that as you move the 5 dimension the text stays on the wrong side
of the leader line. You will notice that when a dimension is selected small Continue to use the techniques you have learnt to tidy up the remaining
square boxes are drawn on key points of the dimension. These can be views. Be prepared to switch dimensions to other views as you feel
moved individually. The one on the end of the text allows you to move the necessary. Make sure to use the handles on the end of the dimension
text to the other side of the leader. Also whilst moving a dimension the extension lines to move them so that they do not overlap the model.
right mouse button can be pressed to flip the arrows to a new position.

Dimension Parameters
The 5 holes are probably going to be drilled together and so it is good
practice to keep all of the information for these holes together as a single
note. The actual text of a dimension can be changed too. Select the 5-
diameter dimension and from the drop down menus use the command
EDIT > PROPERTIES. This will bring up the properties dialog. On the
DIMENSION TEXT tab there is a simple editor to modify the text of the
dimension. You will see some unusual characters like @D. These make
up the existing dimension text a diameter symbol followed by the value
of the dimension represented by @D. Dont change these in any way but
add your note to them as follows Dimension d50 Dimension d49
3 holes @D x 8 deep.
This solution looks correct but really it is incomplete. The number 8 is the
depth of the hole which appears elsewhere as a dimension. The beauty of
Pro Engineer is that all occurrences of a model are linked or associated.
You will see later that it is possible to change a dimension in a drawing
and the model will be updated to reflect the change and vice-versa. Since
the depth of the hole in this note is not a dimension, its just a text note, it
will not be updated automatically. A better solution would be to include a
reference to the actual dimension in the text note. Here is how to do that.
In Figure 5 you will notice that the highlighted 8 depth and the 38 both
relate to the 3 holes. If you hover your cursor over each of these in turn
you will notice that in the information line at the bottom of the screen it will Figure 5 Adding Parameters to Dimension Notes
say d49:F21(HOLE) and d50:F21(HOLE). The reference d49 and d50
are the names that Pro Engineer uses for the dimensions. Take a note of
the name of these i.e. 8 is called d50 and 38 is called d49. Having noted

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 Drawing Detailing
Modifying Dimension Values These are available from Pro Engineer and you should refer to the Help
system under Detailing for more information.
Earlier in the tutorial it was mentioned that the links between models and
drawings allows dimensional modifications to be made from within the
drawing. You have no doubt already seen how modifications can be made
Review
within a model. The process from within a drawing is very similar. Just So what should you have learnt?
click on a dimension to select it THEN double click on it to edit it (NOTE: If
you just double click with out first selecting you will get the Properties How to show and erase dimensions.
dialog you met earlier). How to reposition dimensions.
How to maintain dimension parametrics.
Try this now on the 49 for the central bore. Select, double click then type
in a new value for this, say 55 and press RETURN. The colour of the Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
dimension will change to show that it has been modified but the model will perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
not change until you choose EDIT > REGENERATE > MODEL. The
before and after of this exercise is shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6 Model Modifications Can Be Made From The Drawing

Printing a Drawing
Printing a drawing is straightforward using FILE > PRINT. One point worth
noting is how do you print an A3 drawing on an A4 printer? Simple in the
Print dialog choose Configure in the Page tab choose Size as A4 then in
the Model tab choose Plot as FULL PLOT. The entire drawing should now
be scaled to fit onto an A4 sheet.
This completes the drawing tutorial. The completed drawing is shown in
Figure 7 at the end of the tutorial.
There are other additions that more advanced users may wish to include in
their drawing such as geometric tolerances, machining and other symbols.

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 Drawing Detailing

Figure 7 : The Completed Drawing

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 Modifying Models
Often when creating features in a model other features, created earlier,
are referenced. These references are called parent child relationships. For
example a hole cut into a block clearly references the block! The block is
the parent the hole is the child. The child cannot exist without the parent. If
the parent is removed the child must go too, or else another parent must
adopt the child. It is important to understand the hierarchy that is being
created in this way, as with a little thought it can be used to help your
design and not hinder it. This is particularly true when the design requires
modifying.
Relationships are created all the time within Pro Engineer. It is often
possible to design a feature in several ways, with apparently the same
result, but creating different parent child relationships. Some of these
methods will capture the design intent better than others. As an example a
hole may be created in another circular feature, a boss. The hole could be
dimensioned independently of the first feature. If the boss is moved the
hole will not move as well since there are no parent child relationships to
the first feature. If however the hole is made concentric to the boss a
relationship is built in that describes the design intent the hole and boss
are intended to always be concentric. Now the hole moves with the boss to
maintain the concentric relationship. Figure 1 : The Base Protrusion
What parent child relationships have been created in this feature if any?
Parent Child Relationships As previously stated some dimensions (usually location dimensions)
This tutorial is designed to show that solid modelling in a parametric create relations. Which of the dimensions you entered have created a
system need not be a rigorous fully structured procedure. Good technique relationship? Which dimensions referenced other features for location?
can allow flexibility in the design process. It is assumed that the reader has The 100 and 150 dimensions control the position of the box relative to the
already completed the previous modelling tutorials and is competent at FRONT and RIGHT datums so a parent child relationship exists there. Is
creating models. there any relationship to the TOP datum? You chose the TOP datum as
the sketching plane (and the FRONT datum as a bottom plane) which also
Start by creating a new part called COVER using the mmns_part_solid creates a relationship. So your block is related to all of the previous
template. Next create an extruded protrusion as shown in Figure 1. The features! None of the datum planes could be deleted without deleting the
protrusion should use the TOP datum as the sketching plane and the block. You can prove this by choosing from the pull down menu INFO >
FRONT datum as the BOTTOM reference and be created to a depth of PARENT/CHILD and picking on the block. A window appears as shown in
100. Figure 2 which states that the block has no children but its parents are the
TOP, RIGHT and FRONT datums.

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 Modifying Models

Figure 3 : The Flange

Reordering Features
Since this part is going to be a cover the centre needs hollowing out. A cut
Figure 2 : Information On Parent Child Relationship
could be used for this but Pro Engineer has a special feature for this
You may be already aware that the dimensions assigned to any feature purpose. It is called a shell feature you may have met it before. Use
are not fixed. Their value can be changed at any time by using the EDIT or INSERT > SHELL and pick on the bottom most surface in Figure 3 enter a
command in the pop up menu. As a reminder right click on the protrusion shell thickness of 10. The surface you picked will be removed and all of
in the feature tree and choose EDIT. All of the dimensions used to define the remaining surfaces will be offset by 10 to make the shell.
the block will be displayed. Double clicking on these dimensions will let
you change the value. The modified value will be displayed in green
indicating the change. The modification will not affect the 3D model until
you choose EDIT > REGENERATE. Try this now by changing the 100
thickness of the block to 200. Regenerate to see the change and then
change it back to 100.
Next create a second protrusion for a flange. The flange should use the
TOP datum as the sketching plane and FRONT as the BOTTOM reference
and should be created in the same direction as the first protrusion
maintaining the overall height of 100. The sketch for the flange (Figure 3)

should be created by using the offset edge icon . The LOOP option
and click on the top surface of the first block allows all four sides to be
offset in one go choose and offset of 10. Finish the sketch and choose
the BLIND option with a length of 10.
This is an example of another type of parent child relationship. The use
Figure 4 : The Shell
edge and offset edge both reference existing geometry and so a parent
child relationship is formed.

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 Modifying Models
The cover is full of sharp corners so add rounds (INSERT > ROUND).
There are eight edges to be rounded all around the outside of the cover.
There are four around the top and the four vertical sides so you will need
to hold the CTRL key whilst selecting them. Enter a radius of 25 for all
rounds.
Drag the round
above the shell

None
constant
wall thickness

Figure 5 : Rounded Corners

The problem with this is that rounding the outside edges does not round
the inside edges! The wall thickness is no longer constant. Ideally the
rounds should have been added before the shell feature. Do we have to
delete the shell and add it again after the round? No. The order of features
can be changed within the bounds of parent child relationships since you
cant place a child before its parents. There are no parent/child
relationships stopping this move. To reorder a feature click and drag the
name in the feature tree. Drag the last round feature up the feature list if Figure 6 : Features Reordered
you try and drag it before its parents the feature names will be highlighted
in blue. The model will regenerate with internal and external rounds and Inserting Features
the thickness of the whole model will be the same just like you had The next step is to add a circular boss protruding from the top surface of
added the rounds before the shell. the cover. If this is created as an extruded protrusion then once again
there will be a material thickness discrepancy because the boss has been
created after the shell. We could add it now and then re-order it to the
correct position but since you noticed this problem early (you did didnt
you!) there is an alternative method. The new feature can be inserted into
the tree by dragging the Insert Here reference in the feature tree to below
the second protrusion. The model will be taken back in time to the point
before the rounds and shell were added. Now add the boss using the
dimensioning scheme shown in Figure 7. The 80 and 30 dimensions
reference the FRONT and RIGHT datums. The boss thickness is 15. After
creating the boss bring back the rest of the model by dragging the Insert

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 6
 Modifying Models
Here reference in the model tree to the end of the list. The model will be the boss and is not the obvious way to do it, its not even the correct way
regenerated with the boss before the shell maintaining a constant wall of doing it but it illustrates a point!
thickness.

Figure 8 : Hole Dimensioning Scheme

Now further down the design cycle it is found that this boss (and its hole)
need to be moved. No problem! Right click on the boss in the feature tree
(the third protrusion) and choose EDIT and change the 80 length to 60.
Regenerate the model and alls well! Not quite try it!

Figure 7 : Boss Dimensioning Scheme

Drag the Insert Here reference in the feature tree to the bottom of the list
to continue modelling in the normal manner. Now complete the model with
a hole through the boss. This should be an EXTRUSION using the THRU
ALL option to remove material and should be created with the
dimensioning scheme shown in Figure 8. This is an identical scheme to Figure 9 : The Boss Has Moved But Not The Hole!

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 6
 Modifying Models
The hole hasnt moved because it was dimensioned independently of the
boss. No parent/child relationship was established even though this would
be good practice in this case. You could just modify the dimensions of the
hole as well but lets change the model to capture the design intent.
First modify the (now) 60 back to its original 80 and EDIT >
REGENERATE so the boss is back to its original position. The hole needs
the dimensioning scheme changing. To do this, right click on the hole in
the feature tree (the cut) and choose EDIT DEFINITION. Enter the sketch
mode with PLACEMENT> DEFINE and delete the circle. Create a new

circle this time using the concentric option . Choose the icon click on
the circle around the boss and click again to place the circle. You will
notice that no linear (positional) dimensions are created because the
circular hole is aligned to the boss thereby creating a parent/child
relationship. End the sketch and the definition. Now try making the Figure 11 : Draft References
modification again and the hole should move with the boss.

Adding Draft Angles

Finally to show you the power of what you have learnt and as an excuse to
introduce a new feature type lets assume that to allow the part to be
removed from the injection moulding machine easily we need to angle the
sides. These are called draft angles. Again to ensure we keep a constant
thickness we need to add the draft before the shell. Drag the Insert Here
icon to below the second protrusion in the feature tree. Now choose
Figure 12 : The Draft and Hinge Surfaces
INSERT > DRAFT or the icon.
Drag the Insert Here reference in the feature tree to the bottom of the list
to continue modelling in the normal manner.

Figure 10 : The Draft Dashboard

Review
In the dash board click on References menu and the options in Figure 11 So what should you have learnt?
will be shown. First click in the Draft surfaces pane then select with the Understand Parent Child Relationships.
CTRL held the four vertical walls of the cover (see Figure 12). Next click in How to reorder feature.
the draft hinges pane and click on the large top surface (see Figure 12). How to insert features.
Type in a draft angle of 2 and click on to change the draft direction if How to create Draft Features.
necessary. Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

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 Modifying Models
What Next?
You may wish to experiment yourself with these techniques whilst
modelling the shape below. Scale or estimate all dimensions. Notice that
most faces are angled to aid moulding so you will need to use Draft
Features or other techniques.

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 Assembly
diagrammatically in Figure 2. It may be interesting to work out what
An assembly is a collection of parts oriented and positioned together. As
degrees of freedom are constrained by each.
such it is the highest level of data that can be manipulated within
ProEngineer as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 2 : Constraint Options

The first stage in assembling two components is to determine how you
would assemble the parts in real life I would push that shaft in that hole
Figure 1 : Structure of ProEngineer Models
until this face butts up against this face. Then you have to translate these
The first part placed in an assembly is known as the base component. All words into the types of constraints that Pro Engineer offers INSERT the
other parts are assembled to this part and are located by applying shaft in the hole then MATE the two faces. Then the constraints are
constraints. A constraint is a restriction of movement. Any part located in applied to the new part. In each case, the constraint will require a location
free space has six degrees of freedom, three translational (movements on the assembly and a location on the component to be chosen. For
along x, y and z axes) and three rotational (rotations around x, y and z example, if a mate constraint is chosen two planar faces (or datum planes)
axes). For a part to be completely fixed in space all six degrees of freedom need to be chosen - one on the assembly and one on the component. The
need to be constrained. ProEngineer allows components to be assembled assembly constraints are maintained even if modifications occur to the
together without constraining all six degrees of freedom so a shaft can original parts.
be left free to rotate in a hole.
The assembly file itself is saved with a .ASM file extension. This file does
Constraints are applied by using typical engineering metaphors. For not contain any geometry defining the components. It contains references
example, two planar surfaces can be mated together so that they touch. to the original part files. If the original part files are deleted, moved or
This effectively restricts movement in 3 degrees of freedom (2 rotational renamed the assembly model will report an error and will not open
and 1 translational). The six most common constraints are described correctly.

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 Assembly
Creating a Sub Assembly The second part can now be placed using INSERT > COMPONENT >
ASSEMBLE as before. Choose the name of the second component
If you have not already been given them, the parts for the valve assembly valve_cover. The part will appear at some random position in the
used in this tutorial can be found in the same directory on the Web as this assembly and the Component Placement Dialog box is shown ready to
document (http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/tutorials.html). All 5 parts add the first constraint.
should be copied to your local system before you start.
A sub assembly is a small collection of parts which are assembled first
then later they are added to the main assembly. As an example a car
engine would be completely assembled first before it is added as a single
unit to the car on the main assembly line. Pro Engineer can treat any
assembly as a sub assembly.
Create a new assembly component using NEW from the FILE drop down
menu choosing the Assembly option and giving a suitable name - in this
case valve_sub. Choose the empty template and click OK. A new window
contain default assembly datums will be displayed into which parts will be
assembled.
The first part in the assembly is known as the base component. It is
usually obvious which part in your assembly should be considered as the
base part since other parts are attached to it. Choose the command

INSERT > COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE or icon and pick the base
part called valve_shaft from the file list. The base part will now be shown in
the assembly window. Since this is the first component it is automatically
located at the default position. (If you had used a template which
contained some datums then this would not have been the first component
and you would have had to locate the part using the techniques you are
about to learn).
Figure 4 : The Component Placement Dialog
It is now time to apply constraints to the valve_cover. As each constraint is
applied the window updates to show the constraint and states whether the
component is sufficiently constrained to be placed. The valve_cover needs
to have (at least) two constraints. You will see that under Constraints Type
in the dialog there is a drop down list. This list contains the constraint
types. It also has the option of Automatic. If Automatic is selected (the
default) ProEngineer will decide on the type of constraint based on the
type of geometry you choose. Leave the choice as Automatic and pick on
the central hole in the cover. Now pick on the shaft on the 14mm dia. near
where the keyway is located (see Figure 5). This adds the first constraint,
which is reported in the component placement dialog box. Since you have
chosen 2 cylindrical surfaces ProEngineer assumes you want an Insert
Figure 3 : The shaft in default position constraint.

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 Assembly
Pick Here

Then Pick Here

Figure 5 : The First Constraint

This is not enough to place the cover. A second constraint needs to be
added. Pick on one of the flat faces of the cover then pick on the flat face
of the largest shoulder of the shaft. Type in a distance of 0. Figure 7 : Assembly With 2 Parts
The remaining component can now be placed by following the same
Pick Here
procedure for starting with INSERT > COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE. Place
the valve_arm with three constraints. For the first constraint pick the shaft
on the 14mm dia. then pick the hole in the arm. This will be reported as an
Insert.

Pick Here

Then Pick Here Then Pick Here

Figure 6 : The Second Constraint

This adds the second constraint, which may be reported in the component Figure 8 : Constraint 1
placement dialog box as an Align type. This is not correct it should be a Next pick one of the flat faces of the arm with the front face of the first step
Mate type. You can see the difference from Figure 2. This error is easily in the shaft typing a distance of 0. This will be reported as an Align
corrected by pressing the change orientation icon . This is now constraint.
sufficient constraints to place the cover as you can tell since Fully
Constrained is reported at the bottom of the dialog box. Choose OK to
place this second component as shown in Figure 7.

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 Assembly
The first stage of this assembly is now complete as shown in Figure 11.
Dont forget to save the assembly using FILE > SAVE.

Pick Here

Then Pick Here

Figure 9 : Constraint 2
The component will be reported as fully constrained but this assumes that
the rotation of the handle around the shaft is not important. In this case it is
important because the keyways must align (unfortunately the default
positions of the two parts happens to make the slot and keyway align but
this is purely coincidental!). This can be achieved with a further constraint
by pressing the add constraint icon . We now need to pick the side of
the keyway and then the side of the slot. But these faces are inside the Figure 11 : Assembly after 3 parts
model and so cannot be picked in the normal way. Pick the side of the
keyway using the RIGHT mouse button and one of the outside surfaces Creating Assemblies
will be selected. Keep clicking with the RIGHT button until the correct face
is selected then press the LEFT button. Repeat this for the side of the slot Any assembly created within ProEngineer can be used as a subassembly
within a larger assembly. In fact the assembly that was created in the
Then Pick tutorial earlier is going to be used as a sub-assembly. So lets now create
Here the main assembly for this valve.
Pick
Here Create a new assembly called valve using FILE > NEW. Choose the
Empty template. Add the base component, called valve_housing, using

INSERT > COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE or the icon. Having

successfully placed the base component the next stage is to add the other
parts and apply constraints to each in turn. Using INSERT >
COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE, assemble the following parts with the
constraints specified.

Figure 10 : Arm Orientation Constraint. 1. VALVE_SUB (the sub assembly you made earlier) with three
constraints. Pick the shaft on the 14mm dia. and the hole in the

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 8
 Assembly
top of the housing. This will be reported as an Insert type. Now 2. VALVE_BUTTERFLY with three constraints. Pick one small hole
pick bottom face of the cover in the sub-assembly and the top of in the butterfly and one hole in the shaft to make an Insert type.
Pick the other small hole and the other hole in the shaft to make
boss in the housing. If necessary change orientation using to
and Insert type. Pick one of the flat faces of the butterfly with the
make a Mate type. Add another constraint using and pick
flat on the shaft. If necessary change orientation using to
one of the 3 holes in the cover with the matching hole in the
make a Mate type.
housing. This will be an Insert type.

Figure 13 : Assembly after 3 parts

The assembly is now complete. Dont forget to save the assembly using
FILE > SAVE.
Figure 12 : Assembly after 2 parts.

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 Assembly
Modifying Assemblies Exploding Assemblies
Choosing EDIT > DEFINITION and picking one of the components allows Sounds exciting! Bang! Actually an exploded assembly is nothing more
modification of the constraints you have applied (Alternatively you can than the parts shown separated from each other. This can be achieved in
right click on the component name in the feature tree on the left then ProEngineer using a simple command VIEW > EXPLODE > EXPLODE
choose EDIT DEFINITION). The familiar Component Placement dialog VIEW try it in the valve assembly. ProEngineer will make certain
box will appear showing the placements already applied. Clicking on one assumptions based on the type of constraints applied and guess at a
of the constraints makes it current. As each constraint is made current the suitable exploded state. As you can see from Figure 15 this is rarely
references (the surfaces you selected to define the constraint) on the perfect but it is a good starting point.
assembly and the component are highlighted. The current constraint can
be deleted and/or an additional constraint can be added.
It is also possible to modify component dimensions of parts from within the
assembly. First you need to select one of the features in one of the parts.
At the very bottom of the Pro Engineer window you will see the selection
list. This controls what will be selected when you click on an object in the
graphics window. This will probably be set to SMART so that ProEngineer
tries to guess what to select for you. Change this option to FEATURES.
Now when you move the cursor over a part in the graphics window the
individual features are highlighted and selected if you left click on them.
Select a feature then press and hold the right mouse button. A popup
menu will appear and you can choose Edit the dimensions of the
selected feature will appear and you can change them by double clicking
on them. To see the changes you will need to choose EDIT >
REGENERATE. Dont forget to reset the selection list to smart.

Figure 15 : A Poorly Exploded Assembly

Having exploded the assembly and found it is not quite correct the
exploded positions can be modified and the parts moved to a more
appropriate position. You are moving the parts in the exploded state. This
means that you are not actually altering the assembled model, only how
the parts will be shown when exploded. The modified positions of the
model when exploded will be saved so that next time you explode the
model it will be shown correctly.
In this case the exploded directions chosen by ProEngineer are fine, but
the distances it has been exploded are insufficient and some parts
Figure 14 : Editing a Feature in an Assembly overlap. Looking at the assembly you will need to move the valve_butterfly
and valve_shaft up by the same amount. To make room for this movement

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 8
 Assembly
the valve_cover and valve_arm will need to be moved up as well. It may CTRL key whilst picking (pick the valve_butterfly, valve_shaft, valve_cover
also look better if the valve_butterfly is moved forward. and valve_arm) and click OK. You can now click and drag to move the
parts. You may also decide to move the butterfly forward a little. To
To make sure these modifications are permanently saved choose VIEW >
maintain a true explosion this part should only be moved in a direction at
VIEW MANAGER. To show the view manager dialog in Figure 16. In the
right angles to the flat on the shaft. Click on the arrow button in the motion
Explode tab choose EDIT > REDEFINE > POSITION to reposition the
reference field and click on the flat face of the butterfly. This now sets the
parts. The explode position dialog will be shown as in Figure 16.
movement direction correctly and the butterfly can be moved as before.
Choose OK to save these modifications.

Figure 16 : View Manager & Explode Position Dialogs

There are two important fields in this box. First the motion reference must
be set which defines the direction in which subsequent components will be
moved. Choose PLANE NORMAL and pick the large flat surface on top of Figure 17 : A Correctly Exploded Assembly
the valve cover. This defines the direction of movement i.e. along a line at
right angles to this surface. Now click on one of the parts to be moved for You can now use VIEW > EXPLODE > UNEXPLODE VIEW to show the
example the shaft. As you move the mouse the part will move and the model in its assembled position.
amount of movement will be reported in the dialog. Move the part to the
desired position and click again. Return this part to the original position Creating Bills of Materials
with the UNDO button. We really want to move the shaft cover, arm and
A bill of materials is a list of each component needed to make up an
butterfly by the same amount. Click on the preferences button and choose
assembly. Often it contains more than just a simple list of parts. It may be
Move Many. You can now pick several parts to move hold down the
important to list part number, material type, cost and weight and other data

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 8
 Assembly
for each part. Also subassemblies may be recorded as either a single part
or they may be broken down as well to show their make-up. These would
normally be indented in the list to show they are part of a subassembly.
The bill of materials list is a good example of the way in which a CAD
system can form the core data for more general data retrieval system. The
bill of materials information is needed for stock control and order
processing systems.
To create a simple Bill of Materials report from an assembly choose INFO
> BILL OF MATERIALS. A dialog box appears as shown in Figure 18.

Figure 19 - A Bill of Materials Report for Valve

Review
So what should you have learnt?
How to create assemblies.
How to assemble components using insert, align and mate.
How to edit features in an assembly.
How to explode an assembly.
How to create simple parts lists.
Figure 18 : BOM Dialog Box Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
The default options are probably fine so just click on OK and a window will perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
appear showing the details of the assembly. You can see from this that the
VALVE Assembly contains 2 parts and one sub-assembly. The sub- What Next?
assembly itself contains 3 parts. The valve assembly contains a total of 5 You need to experiment with other assemblies of your own as there are
parts. This listing appears on the screen and is also written to the disk as a more constraints which we have not covered here.
text file under the name valve.bom.1. You could add this text to a drawing
(not an assembly) by choosing INSERT > NOTE then FILE MAKE Also assemblies are the starting point for mechanism analysis so take a
NOTE locate the notes position and type in the filename valve.bom.1. look at the mechanism tutorials.

By D Cheshire Page 8 of 8
 Working With Tolerances
determined whilst in the sketcher by SKETCH > OPTIONS on the
Most CAD systems have functionality to allow the user to add tolerance
PARAMETERS tab under NUM DIGITS. The default values, shown above,
information to dimensions. This allows drawings to reflect design or
can also be changed choosing ANNOTATION in the selection filter at the
manufacturing intent but since the tolerances are nothing more than an
bottom of the screen and double clicking on the tolerance value. Any
additional text note applied to the dimension no additional functionality can
modifications you make to these default tolerances apply only to
be gained from the tolerance value. These unintelligent tolerances can
dimensions subsequently created. Previous dimensions will have the
serve no benefit for analysing such things as tolerance build up problems
default tolerances active when they were created. If, for example, you
and volume/weight variations.
normally work with a general tolerance of +/- 0.3 on all unspecified
Pro Engineer builds three-dimensional models and allows the defining dimensions, you could change all of the linear values to 0.3 and then
dimensions to have tolerances applied to them. These tolerances can be assign suitable tolerances to individual dimensions as required later.
displayed in the three-dimensional model window as well as appearing on
the subsequent drawing derived from the model. Since these tolerances Assigning Tolerances To Part Dimensions
are inherent in the defining dimensions of the part they can be used in a
much more intelligent way for analysing the parts performance in an The two components shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 are simple parts
assembly as will be shown in the following scenario. which are intended to fit together as part of an assembly. They are to be
constructed as two separate Pro Engineer parts called tol1 and tol2. Using
your existing knowledge of Pro Engineer create these two separate parts
Tolerance Overview now using mmns_part_solid template. The L shaped block in tol1 can be
All Pro Engineer components are built with nominal values. The nominal created as an extruded protrusion and the three pegs are a second
values represent the ideal sizes that are intended by the designer. extruded protrusion created by sketching three circles onto the top face.
However manufacturing practice dictates that no dimension can be ENSURE YOU DIMENSION THE PARTS EXACTLY AS SHOWN.
guaranteed exactly. All manufacturing processes require a dimensional
tolerance range within which the size can be guaranteed. The smaller the
tolerance range required the more expensive the manufacturing process
required is likely to be. Assigning very narrow tolerances to every
dimension causes a component to be more expensive than is necessary to
achieve the function intended. It is the designers role to analyse the
product and decide which dimensions are critical to achieving the product
function.
All dimensions entered in Pro Engineer are given a default tolerance
value. To see these values make sure that the option DIMENSION
TOLERANCES is checked in the TOOLS > ENVIRONMENT dialog. Every
dimension for a feature will now be displayed with tolerances shown. Also
the part window will display the default tolerances as follows
X.X +- 0.1
X.XX +-0.01
X.XXX +-0.001
ANG +-0.5
This shows that the default tolerance varies according to the number of
decimal places assigned to a dimension. The number of decimal places is Figure 1 : An Engineering Component Called tol1

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 5
 Working With Tolerances
As an example of what tolerances can be used for at a part level the
volume of material in a component could be calculated. Clearly since the
dimensions have a tolerance the volume would also have a tolerance. To
find out the volume range we need to calculate mass properties at
maximum and minimum material conditions. The part dimensions are set
to an extreme value by EDIT > SETUP > DIM BOUND > SET ALL >
UPPER > DONE. Notice that SET ALL can be used for tol1 since
maximum material conditions are when all dimensions are at the upper
limit. If the part had a hole the dimensions for the hole feature would need
to be set to the lower limit for maximum material. The volume can now be
calculated using ANALYSIS > MODEL ANALYSIS and choosing the Type
as Model Mass Properties and Compute. The density can be set to 1. Note
the volume is calculated as 76 495 mm3. The calculation can now be
repeated after first setting the dimensions to minimum material condition
using EDIT > SETUP > DIM BOUND > SET ALL > LOWER > DONE. Note
the volume is calculated as 75 863 mm3 a total variation of 632 mm3. Use
Figure 2 : A Second Engineering Component Called tol2
EDIT > SETUP > DIM BOUND > SET ALL > NOMINAL > DONE to reset
Having created the two parts it would be interesting to see what tolerance the bounds to their normal state.
has been applied to each dimension. Open part tol1 now. First make sure
that the DIMENSION TOLERANCES is checked in TOOLS
> ENVIRONMENT. The default number of decimal places in sketcher is 2.
If you have not changed this or the default tolerance values the tolerance
on all dimensions with two decimal places X.XX should be reported in the
graphics window as +/- 0.01. Confirm the tolerances are as you expected
by right clicking on a feature in the model tree on the left of the screen and
choosing EDIT. The dimensions should now be shown with their upper
and lower limit values as you can see in Figure 3.

Figure 3 : Tolerance Shown

Figure 4 : Mass Property Calculations

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 5
 Working With Tolerances
Showing Tolerances on Drawings Choose LIMITS or PLUS-MINUS to display tolerances. Notice that you can
also adjust the value of the dimension and the tolerance from here.
To show dimensions on a drawing is a simple matter so long as the
system has been set-up correctly. The following paragraph describes how
to set up the system. You should be working in a drawing for these
commands to work. Refer to Tutorials 4 and 5 for creating drawings and
adding dimensions. Create a drawing of part tol1 now positioning the
dimensions as shown in Figure 5

Figure 6 : The Modify Dimension Form

Select the 12 diameter dimension of the pins and change the Tolerance
Mode to Limits now to see the difference.

Figure 5 : Initial Drawing

The configuration for your drawing appearance (text height, arrow size
etc.) is stored in a drawing set-up file. The current settings can be altered
using FILE > PROPERTIES >DRAWING OPTIONS. A new dialog window
will appear showing all your current settings. If tolerances are to appear in
your drawing is important that this file contains a line that says tol_display
yes. In the Option field type tol_display and set the value field to yes. Click
Add/Change to change the value then close the dialog.
Now that the drawing is set correctly any dimension(s) can be selected
and the command EDIT PROPERTIES given. A form will appear
showing the dimension settings as shown in Figure 6. The Tolerance
Mode should be set to NOMINAL if you do not want tolerances displayed. Figure 7 : A Dimension with Tolerance

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 5
 Working With Tolerances
Analysing Assemblies with Tolerances each other. In the assembly tolass issue the command ANALYSIS >
MODEL ANALYSIS and choose the type of analysis as PAIRS
The holes and pins in parts tol1 and tol2 are intended to assemble CLEARANCE. Pick the two parts in the assembly and Compute. At this
together with a clearance fit of H9e9 as designated by BS4500. Reference stage ProEngineer should report a zero clearance. Of course since the two
to this standard shows that the tolerance for a 12mm shaft of this parts are designed to touch along two faces this is what you would expect.
specification is 0.032 to 0.075. The matching hole would be +0.000 to What is the clearance between the pins and their holes? To find this use
+0.043. Change the tolerance of these two features now. In the tol1 part the command ANALYSIS > MODEL ANALYSIS and choose the type of
right click on the feature for the pins in the model tree and choose EDIT. analysis as PAIRS CLEARANCE but this time choose SURFACE as the
Since you just set the tolerance mode for the diameter dimension to Limits From and To option. Pick on the cylindrical surface of one pin then right
two diameter values (12.01 and 11.99) should be displayed. Double click click until you pick the cylindrical surface of the corresponding hole.
on the lower diameter dimension value for the pins (11.99) and type in the ProEngineer should report a clearance of 0. 0.0529799mm and a red
new value of 11.880. Double Click on the upper dimension value (12.01) marker will be displayed at one of the points of minimum clearance. Why is
and type in the new value of 11.950. In tol2 you will need to Edit the there this clearance value? Because the calculations are currently being
feature then click on the diameter dimension and choose EDIT > performed on the parts at nominal sizes. The calculation is
PROPERTIES so that you can set this to Tolerance Mode Limits. Then
repeat the changes setting the lower dimension to 12.000 and the upper to Pins at (11.88+11.95)/2=11.9150mm diameter.
12.043.
Holes at (12.043+12.000)/2=12.0215mm diameter.
To illustrate these concepts create a new empty assembly called tolass
Clearance of (12.0215-11.915)/2=0.053mm.
and assemble the two parts, tol1 and tol2, together. Use tol1 as the first
component. Apply three constraints as tol2 is placed as shown in Figure 8. If you do not get this value make sure you have set the dimension bounds
Make sure that the first mate constraint references the end from which the to nominal (EDIT > SETUP > DIM BOUND > SET ALL > NOMINAL > pick
15 dimensions is taken on tol2. part > DONE for each part).
The question remains that if the parts are at their worst extremes of
tolerance will the parts still assemble? What are the worst extremes? This
clearly occurs when the pins are at there biggest and the holes are at
there smallest. Also if the distance between the pins is at a minimum and
the distance between the holes is a maximum (or vice versa) a worst case
scenario exists. To achieve this condition in ProEngineer we need to set
up the dimension bounds as we did before but in the assembly. Use EDIT
> SETUP > DIM BOUND > SET SELECTED > LOWER and pick the part
tol1 on one of the pins. The dimensions for this feature will be displayed
and you can now pick each spacing dimension in turn (i.e. 15mm, 20mm
and 20mm) followed by DONE. These will be displayed in white indicating
they are set to lower. Now using the similar command set the diameter of
the pins to the UPPER tolerance. This time the dimension will be displayed
in grey indicating an upper tolerance. Repeat this procedure for the holes
Figure 8 : The Assembly Constraints in tol2 (use right click until you pick on the holes). This time the spacing
Once the assembly is complete analysis can take place. One problem that needs to be set to UPPER and hole diameters to LOWER.
often occurs with tolerances is that assembled components will not work The assembly is now set to one extreme of tolerance. If the interference
correctly when the parts in an assembly are all at one extreme of size. analysis between the two parts is performed again interference will be
ProEngineer can calculate whether two parts in an assembly interfere with

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 5
 Working With Tolerances
reported the red areas where the parts overlap is highlighted. The
assembly will NOT work as intended with the current tolerances. To make
it work the tolerances on the spacing of the holes could be reduced but
this is likely to increase the cost of the component. Is there an alternative?

Figure 10 : Alternative Dimensioning Schemes

Figure 9 : Interference You may like to return to the parts tol1 and tol2 and EDIT DEFINITION on
the features so that the dimensions for the holes and pins reflect the
If you look at the previous interference analysis you can see that the baseline scheme. If you perform the analysis again you will find there is no
interference occurs on the last two pins, why? The problem is called interference and the assembly will work as intended.
tolerance stack up. Consider Figure 10 which shows two alternative
dimensioning schemes. Review
The two schemes apparently are no different until you consider tolerances. So what should you have learnt?
If a tolerance of +/- 0.01 is applied to each dimension what is the overall
distance to the centre of the right most circle. Using the chain- How to define tolerances on part dimensions.
dimensioning scheme the tolerances are cumulative so the answer is 55
+/- 0.03. Using the baseline dimensioning scheme the dimension is How to show tolerances on drawings.
specifically stated so the tolerances do not add up and the answer is 55 How to use tolerances for analysis.
+/- 0.01. An improvement in accuracy has been achieved with no
tightening of tolerances and no extra cost. In general baseline Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
dimensioning is more accurate and should always be used except when perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
chain dimensioning better reflects the critical dimensions.

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 5
 Basic Moulding
Having created a model of your part it is often necessary, dependant on The first step in the process of creating moulds from a model is to create a
the manufacturing technique, to develop a mould system for injection new file in which to work. Choose FILE > NEW and in the subsequent
moulding or casting. This document introduces the process of producing dialog box choose the options for MANUFACTURING and MOLD CAVITY
moulds covering the creation of mould halves from the defined part. It and type in the name mould. Choose the mmns_mfg_mold template. This
does not cover other aspects of mould creation such as adding mould creates a new assembly ready for the definition of the mould.
filling channels, ejection pins etc.
The tutorial starts by assuming you already have a part designed and this
is suitable for moulding. You should use the standard part provided for this
tutorial. This part can be downloaded from the internet and can be found at
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs under the Casing link in the
Basic Moulding section. Save this part to your working directory.

PREPARING TO MOULD
Before we start to create the mould it would be good to check out the part
to be moulded. Choose FILE > OPEN and choose the name casing.prt to
load the part we are to mould.
Figure 2 : Creating a Mould Manufacturing Part

PLACING MOULD COMPONENTS

Into this mould we need to assemble all of the parts to make the mould. In
this simple case this means the actual part to be moulded and the block of
material from which the mould will be made.
Figure 1 : The Casing Model Start with the actual part to be moulded since we already have that.
You should see the bottom half of a casing for an electronic hand held Choose the icon and choose the part casing.prt from the list. A dialog
device in the Pro Engineer window as shown in Figure 1. If you cant find will appear entitled Create Reference Model choose the SAME MODEL
this part check that you have downloaded it correctly from the website and option and OK. Then the layout dialog will be shown. Since we have a
you saved it in the current directory. There is nothing unusual about this coordinate system in both parts this is automatically filled in for us aligning
part but to make life a little easier for the moulding process we can create the coordinate system in the casing with the one in the mould. The layout
a coordinate system in the part. A coordinate system defines the origin section of the dialog allows you to create a mould with multiple cavities (or
and the X, Y and Z directions of a model. To define a coordinate system impressions). We only want one so leave this set to SINGLE and press
choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > COORDINATE SYSTEM. A dialog OK. The casing should appear in the graphics window.
will be displayed. Select whilst holding CTRL the 3 datum planes in the
mould part. Choose them in this order CASING_RIGHT, Now we need to place a block of material (called a workpiece) around this
CASING_FRONT, CASING_TOP. Since we have picked 3 datums Pro part. If we had a suitable block already defined we could simply
Engineer assumes we want an origin defined at intersection point of all the ASSEMBLE it using the WORKPIECE option. Since we do not have a
datums. The order that we picked the datums defines the X, Y, Z suitable block already defined we can create one now using MOLD
directions. Go to the properties tab and type in the name MODEL > CREATE > WORKPIECE > AUTOMATIC or choose the
CASING_ORIGIN then click OK to create the coordinate system. Save the icon.
part.

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 4
 Basic Moulding
SPLITTING THE MOULD
We now have the part to be moulded and the material from which the
mould is to be made positioned correctly together. The next stage is to
prepare to split the material block into two halves to make the mould. To
do this we need to define another feature that will act as the knife to cut
If this section is blank then the material in two halves. This feature defines the split-line in this case a
the mould library has not flat plane. You could do this using the command PARTING SURF >
been installed on your CREATE but we will use the automated icons provided. First choose the
computer. You will have to
define the workpiece icon and simply click OK in the following dialog as all options are
manualy - your on your
own. correctly defined automatically. You should see red lines appearing in the
model as shown in Figure 5. These lines indicate where the casing will be
split to create the mold. You may be thinking how does Pro Engineer know
where to split it? The answer is simple it infers much of the information
from the location of the original coordinate system which is why when we
defined the first coordinate system in the casing model the location was
important as this defined the position of the split and also the orientation
was important as the Z axis defines the direction of the split.

Figure 3 : Workpiece Creation Dialog

The first thing this dialog is expecting is for you to select a coordinate
system on which it will base the workpiece material. Select the
MOLD_DEF_CSYS coordinate system. Now type in a UNIFORM OFFSET
of 10 and preview the block then click OK.

Figure 5 : The Split Lines

The next step is to use these curves to define a split surface which will
eventually be used to cut the mould into two parts. Choose the icon
and type in the name MOULD_SPLIT_SURFACE. Click OK then select
the red curves you just created followed by Done and OK. A new surface
Figure 4 : Workpiece Defined

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 4
 Basic Moulding
will be created inside the material (Figure 6) which we will now use to cut
the mould into two parts.

Figure 7 : The Model Tree Dialog Box

VIEWING THE MOULD

To better see what this procedure has done look at the Model Tree (se
Figure 7). This shows that mould.asm contains four items
1. CASING.PRT This is the model of the lower half of the casing.
2. MOLD_WRK.PRT The model of the block of material we
created.
Figure 6 : Split Surface 3. MOLD_VOL_1.PRT The model of the mould upper half.
4. MOLD_VOL_2.PRT The model of the mould lower half.
Now we have the split surface we can use this to chop the mould material
into two halves. The command structure for this is MOLD VOLUME > Its easier to see the two mould halves if we first make some information
invisible and then open the mould. At the top of the main window you
SPLIT or chose the icon then TWO VOLUMES | ALL WRKPCS |
DONE. Now pick the split surface you just created then OK and OK on the should see an icon . Click this to bring up the Blank/UnBlank dialog.
dialog box. Accept the names provided for the two halves of the mould and
if you want use the Shade button on the Volume Name dialog to see each
part as it is created.
This operation has split the model into the two halves ready to define the
mould. The information for the two halves is not yet stored as a solid
model. It is in fact just a collection of surfaces. Before we proceed we must
convert these to solids. This is done with the command MOLD COMP >

EXTRACT or the icon and choosing all of the parts with from
the dialog box and OK. This operation has created two separate parts
(mold_vol_1.prt and mold_vol_1.prt), that can be retrieved individually and
used (e.g. machined).

Figure 8 : The Blank - UnBlank Dialog Box

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 4
 Basic Moulding
In this dialog click on the name MOULD_WRK below visible components
and press BLANK at the bottom of the dialog. Now press
and blank the parting surface. Close the dialog. This leaves just the two
mould halves and the casing visible but with the mould in the closed
position. The open position of the mould is defined by the command

MOLD OPENING or the icon. Now choose DEFINE STEP > DEFINE
MOVE and pick the top half of the mould. To define the move direction
click on one of the vertical edges of the mould and type in a distance of
100 Done. Repeat this for the lower half moving it down by -100. The drop
down menu command VIEW > EXPLODE > EXPLODE VIEW controls the
movement of the model between its open and closed state.

Figure 9 : The Completed Open Mould

Review
So what should you have learnt?
How to define coordinate systems for moulds.
How to create and locate basic mould components.
How to split into mould halves.
How to show mould components in the open position.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 4
 Introduction To Plastic Advisor
can be used to analyse the moulding process and increase confidence in
Introduction to Injection Moulding the design before significant costs are incurred in mould manufacture.

Injection moulding is a process that has been used in a wide variety of

Pro Plastic Advisor Analysis
industries for many years. This process uses amorphous and crystalline
thermoplastic resins that are heated to a stable temperature and In this tutorial you will be introduced to some of the basic functionality of
compressed into a mould. The diagram in Figure 1 shows the process of Pro Plastic Advisor. This will include loading the part into the Advisor
injection moulding. package, selecting a fill point, selecting a suitable material and producing
a report of the product analysed. The first step is to download the part to
be analysed from the Internet. The part name is casing.prt and can be
found at http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs. Download the part
and save it to your working directory. Start ProEngineer and load this part.

Figure 1 : The Injection Moulding Process

Cold polymer is feed from the hopper into the screw where it is heated; the
ram then forces the hot molten polymer into the cold mould. The polymer Figure 2 : Casing Part
is then left to cool for a pre-determined time before the mould is opened
and the part is ejected. This process can be used to produce both simple Pro Plastic Advisor is a separate package closely linked to Pro Engineer.
and very complex components in a very short time. Examples of familiar To start an analysis, transfer the part into Pro Plastic Advisor using the
products produced by this technique are computer cases, mobile phones following process APPLICATIONS > PLASTIC ADVISOR then press the
casings, garden chairs etc. middle mouse to miss out the injection point definition (for now).

One of the main problems with injection moulding is the set up cost; this Pro Plastic Advisor will now open. To show the part to be analysed choose
includes the mould design and the tooling required. This makes it suitable WINDWO > CASING. Holding down the left mouse button and moving the
for high volume production where the cost of moulds can be amortised mouse will rotate the view of the part. The middle mouse button zooms
over a large number of products. To help to reduce the cost of setting up in/out and the right button pans. You can also use the arrow keys to rotate
this process ProEngineer has designed a package called Pro Plastic the view.
Advisor. This is an optional package there is no guarantee any system
(outside of Staffordshire University) will include the software. This package

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 5
 Introduction To Plastic Advisor
To select the polymer injection location, click the polymer injection location

icon that can be found at the top of the screen then click in the centre
of the model. An arrow will appear as shown in Figure 4. Is this a good
location from a design perspective? Injection locations will leave marks on
the product so you would normally choose to inject on the inside of a
product.

Material Definition
The next step is to define a suitable polymer. ProPlasticAdvisor has a built
in polymer materials database with over 4000 polymers to choose from.
When selecting a polymer for a product the physical and mechanical
properties such as strength, stiffness, hardness, etc. must be considered.
The diagram in Figure 5 shows a generalised performance spectrum of
plastic materials.

Figure 3 : Pro Plastic Advisor Window

Injection Location
The first step in defining and analysis is to position the injection location
where the polymer will enter the mould. Consideration must be taken to
find the best place to inject the polymer. In the first exercise we will inject
the polymer from the top of the model. Orientate the part as shown in
Figure 4.

Figure 5 - Polymer Performance Range

The product in this tutorial is the back of a mobile phone. Mobile phones
are often made from ABS so this is the material we will used in this tutorial.
To select a material open the materials database by clicking on the mould
parameter button . This will display the mould parameters dialogue box
where the material needed for this operation can be selected. Click on
specific material and the choose the material shown in Figure 6. Click on
Figure 4 - Initial Fill Location the DETAILS button to see some of the properties of this material.

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 5
 Introduction To Plastic Advisor

Figure 6 : Moulding Parameters Dialog

Analysing the Model Figure 8 : Results Summary

We are now ready to analyse the model. This process is started by Close the results summary box. The main graphics display will have
changed to show confidence of fill which is entirely green indicating the
ADVISER > ANALYSIS SELECTION or by clicking on icon. The
dialog box displayed allows you to choose the type of analysis required. part should fill correctly. Click on the Weld line Locations button . This
Choose plastic flow analysis and START. will show red lines on the model where weld lines may form. Weld lines
are where two separate flows of material within the mould meet and weld
together. They can cause weaknesses in the final product and so should
be minimised or avoided.

Click on the Air Traps Location button . This will show blue dots
around the bottom edge of the model. This is the location where air may
get trapped in the moulding process. Air pockets can result in incomplete
filling of the mould causing weaknesses or poor surface finish in the final
product and so should be minimised or avoided.

Figure 7 : Analysis Selection Dialog

This process will take about 30 seconds to complete, although this
depends on the performance of your computer. During the analysis the
part will be displayed transparent and will gradually fill with material
starting from the injection point. On completion a results summary box will
appear giving information on the process and also stating whether the
model is suitable for analysis. The results summary box for this analysis
will show amber traffic lights indicating there are possible problems - in
particular weld lines and air traps may be created. Press the More
button to show a help page explaining these results in more detail. Figure 9 : Weld Lines and Air Traps

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 5
 Introduction To Plastic Advisor
Remember it is rare to achieve a perfect mould analysis and good mould
can be achieved even when nominal problems are reported. This analysis button . This will play a small animation showing the module filling with
for example may well achieve a good mould even with these reported polymer and also gives the fill time on the right hand side of the screen.
problems.
Generating Reports
To improve your understanding of the analysis you can choose ADVISER
> ADVISER or the icon. This displays a dialog with two tabs choose Pro Plastic Advisor can produce a web based data sheet showing all the
the Quality Prediction tab. Areas of the model are shown in yellow showing information on the products progress. This is achieved by clicking on the
problems exist. Report button . A wizard will appear asking for information about the
product and allowing you to choose what analysis elements you want to
include. You will now need to select a location where you wish to save the
report. Since the report will contain many files it is a good idea to keep
them all together by creating a new directory. The program will generate a
report in web page format and save all the information in the chosen
directory. The web page will load up in the analysis software. If this does
not happen or you wish to view the page at a later date then in Windows
open the directory and double click on file index.htm.

Figure 10 : Quality Prediction

Click with the RIGHT mouse button on a yellow area to get info on the
problem. The dialog warns that the cooling time is too high and clicking on
More will give advice on the problem. It suggests you could

Decrease the melt temperature.

Decrease the mold temperature.
Make the problem area thinner. Figure 11 Fill Time Display

You may have noticed that both the weld lines and the low quality area Review
occur around the screw holes. One of the design goals for plastic injected
parts is to maintain constant wall thickness. The material is much thicker in So what should you have learnt?
this area could this be a source of the problem? Could a design changes
How to start a mould flow analysis.
in the part help?
How to position injection points and select materials.
The software also gives the user access to additional information on the How to perform analyses.
RESULTS > SHOW menu. This menu will display the confidence of fill, fill How to understand results.
time, pressure drop, injection pressure and flow front temp. Lets look at fill How to generate reports.
time. Choose RESULTS > SHOW > FILL TIME. When any time based
result is displayed the video control buttons are active at the top of the Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
window. These let you view the results over time. Click the play results perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 5
 Introduction To Plastic Advisor
What Next?
Now you have a general idea of how to operate the software you may
want to try a correctly structured analysis either on this or another part of
your own. The table below shows the sequence of steps you should
undertake to correctly perform a full analysis and generate all possible
feedback.

Sequence Description Analysis Result

Select material based on experience Bayer AG Bayblend 45

or databases such as CES.
Perform Gate Analysis to find best
position for injection point.

Position injection point and perform a

moulding window analysis to
determine best material conditions.

Use the conditions specified and

performs a plastic flow analysis to
determine mould ability.

Perform a Cooling Quality analysis.

Perform a Sink Mark analysis.

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 5
 Mechanism Design
Mechanism design in Pro Engineer is very comprehensive. You can
assemble components of the mechanism together using joints which
accurately reflect their movements, you can animate the movement
creating movie files which can be displayed on any PC and you can ask
Pro Engineer to calculate the forces and movements of a mechanism to
enable you to determine the suitability of the mechanism.

Degrees of Freedom
! " " "
Understanding degrees of freedom is critical to selecting the appropriate "
joints for your mechanism. In mechanical systems, the number of degrees
of freedom (DOF) represents the number of independent parameters
required to specify the position or motion of every body in the system. A
completely unconstrained body has six degrees of freedom, three
translational and three rotational. Joint connections act as constraints, or
restrictions, on the motion of bodies relative to each other, reducing the # $% & & " & % !

total possible degrees of freedom of the system. If you apply a pin joint to
a body, you restrict the body's movement to rotation around the pin joint,
and the degrees of freedom for the body reduce from six to one. Below is
a table describing the joint connections you can create in Mechanism
Design and the degrees of freedom corresponding to each joint.

( ! "

'
( ! " !" " "

Figure 1 : Degrees of Freedom with Joints

Mechanism Design
It will be valuable if you already understand the assembly process in Pro
Engineer and have completed the assembly tutorial. We will use the pair of
mole grips as a basis for explaining how to assemble mechanisms
together. Mole grips are like a pair of pliers with one additional function.
They have an over centre mechanism so that when they are squeezed to

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 6
 Mechanism Design
grip a bar they stay locked until they are released by the user. To achieve
this they must be correctly adjusted to the size of the bar using the
adjuster screw on the end of the handle.

Figure 2 : Mole Grips

To design a mechanism in Pro Engineer you must first design the
individual parts of the mechanism. The part files for this model can
downloaded from the internet and can be found at
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/ProeDocs in the Mechanism section. Save
all 8 parts to your working directory.
Use FILE > NEW to create a new assembly called mole_grips using the
Empty template.
Choose INSERT > COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE and choose the part Figure 4 : Mechanism Connections
mole_main. The main handle of the grips should be placed in the graphics You should notice that the default joint type is PIN. This type of joint
window (If the component placement dialog appears you did not choose constrains a pin into a hole aligning their axes and also mates 2 faces.
the Empty template for the assembly start again!). This is the correct type of joint in this case. Pick the cylindrical surfaces of
the two matching holes on each part (see Figure 5).

Figure 3 : Main Part Added

Choose INSERT > COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE and choose the part
mole_jaws. The component placement dialog should appear this time. In
this dialog click on the connect tab (see Figure 4) to show an alternative Figure 5 : Pin Join First Step
dialog which must be used for assemblies involving mechanisms.

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 6
 Mechanism Design
This will align the axes of the two holes and the jaws will move to make The joint definition is identical to the previous PIN joint so choose the
this alignment however you have not yet constrained the position of the correct two holes and DTM3 in the handle and jaws. IMPORTANT NOTE:
jaws along this axis. You should notice that the Component placement All of the defining surfaces for a joint must come from the same pair of
dialog has moved on to Translation and is waiting for you to make further components since the holes were in the handle part and the jaw part the
selections. To be correctly positioned the jaws must be in the centre of the two datums must be in these parts to. You could not for example pick
mole_main part in other words datum plane DTM3 on the jaws should be DTM3 in the mole_main part. Close the dialog and perhaps try dragging
aligned with datum plane DTM3 of the mole_main part. Click on these two
the mechanism.
datums now and the joint should be made (Cant see any datums? Then
choose TOOLS > ENVIRONMENT and tick next to Datum Planes). This is
the only joint we need so click OK to finalise the placement of the jaws.

Figure 6 : Pin Joint Second Step Figure 8 : Joint Two Definition

Joints are indicated by a yellow symbol in the graphics area. In the Model The third part to assemble is mole_strut for which the joint definition is
Tree you should notice a small square next to the name identical to the previous PIN joints so choose the correct two holes and
MOLE_JAWS.PRT (see Figure 7) this is correct and indicates that this DTM3 in the handle and strut.
part is not fully constrained as the jaws are free to rotate around. You can
prove this by clicking on the DRAG icon (if you cant see this icon then
choose APPLICATIONS > MECHANISM then MECHANISM > DRAG).
You should now be able to click on the jaws and move them, spinning
them around the joint!

Figure 7 : Jaws Not Fully Constrained

The next part to assemble is mole_handle so choose INSERT >
COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE to assemble this now. Dont forget to click on
the CONNECTION tab in the component placement dialog (see Figure 4). Figure 9 : Joint Three Definition

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 6
 Mechanism Design
Drag the parts so the strut is in a more realistic position (See Figure 10).
The final part in the mechanism is mole_screw. This is the adjuster screw.
As you turn the screw it moves in and out. The strut touches the end of the
screw so that as the screw moves it has the effect of altering the distance
between the jaws. Lets try and simulate this now so that you can
understand it better.
Choose INSERT > COMPONENT > ASSEMBLE to assemble the
mole_screw. Dont forget to click on the CONNECTION tab (see Figure 4).
We need a different type of joint this time called a SLIDER so choose this
now below the word TYPE. A slider joint allows movement along an axis
so that we can move the screw in and out (we wont bother simulating the Figure 11 : Cylinder Joint
screw rotation). The joint definition is similar to the previous PIN joint. First
we need two axes to align so choose the hole in the end of the mole_main As you are dragging parts in this mechanism you may notice that when
part and the cylindrical surface of the mole_screw. A slider also requires dragging the handle the screw moves in and out. In real mole grips the
two planar surfaces to stop rotation pick DTM3 in mole_screw and DTM3 screw position would not change when moving the handle. How can we
in mole_main (of course strictly speaking our screw does rotate but it does make this work correctly?
not matter). DO NOT close the Component Placement dialog yet! Go to APPLICATIONS > MECHANISMS and MECHANISM > DRAG and
notice the DRAG dialog box. This has a tab called Constraints. Click on it

now and then click on the body-body lock constraint icon . This allows
you to restrict movement of a joint. Click on the mole_main part then click
on the mole_screw part and choose OK. These two parts will be locked in
their current position. You should now be able to drag the handle without
the screw moving. You can remove this lock by removing the tick next to
the body-body lock in the constraints tab. The screw is then free to move
again and can then be locked again in a new position by adding the tick.

Figure 10 : Slider Joint

We now have to link the strut to the screw. This means we need an extra
joint so the screw will have two joints. Click in the Component
Placement dialog to make a new joint. The type of joint we need here is a
Cylinder so choose it now below Type. A cylinder joint is a PIN joint
without the translation surfaces it just needs two axes to align. If you look
carefully you will see that the strut has an axis through the cylindrical
surface at the end and the screw has an axis which has been especially
created the same distance away from the end of the screw as the strut
radius. They are both labeled A_2 and are highlighted in Figure 11. Pick
these now to complete the joint. Dont worry if the pin moves to the wrong Figure 12 : Joint Constraints
position along the axis. Close the placement dialog and try dragging the
pin to a more realistic position.

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 6
 Mechanism Design
Mechanism Animation
You have seen how by dragging you can move the mechanism through its
range of movement. This can be used to generate a sequence of
movements for the mechanism that can be replayed within Pro Engineer
whilst modifying some design parameters or can be saved as a video in
one of the standard Windows video formats then replayed outside of Pro
Engineer in Windows Media player or similar.
To define an animation choose APPLICATION > ANIMATION. The screen
will change with the important addition of an area below the main graphics
window. This is where the timeline editor will appear. A timeline defines
what events happen and at what they start/stop. But what are these events
and how do we define them? In simple terms an event is a mechanism
position. The model can be dragged to different positions and a snapshot
taken of the model in that position. Here is how
First lets set the mechanism up correctly. The command ANIMATION >

SNAPSHOT is used to drag the mechanism. Choose this now and in

Figure 13 : Key Frame Editor
the Constraints tab click on the body-body lock constraint icon . Click
on the mole_main part then click on the mole_screw part and choose OK Press the icon or choose ANIMATION > KEY FRAME SEQUENCE.
to lock the screw in place like before. Choose NEW and the Keyframe Sequence Editor dialog appears (see
Figure 13). Type Mole in the name field. Below Keyframe Snapshot1
Make sure by dragging that the mole grips are in the closed position should be listed and time 0.000. In the dialog press to add this
with the handle near horizontal. At the top of the drag dialog you will see Snapshot1 to the animation. Then select Snapshot2 from the list and
the camera icon . Press this now and Snapshot1 should be created in change the time to 2 and press again. Press OK. You should see the
the snapshots tab. This has memorized the position of the mechanism as Mole animation appearing in the timeline.
it is now. Move the handle to the fully open position and press again. Now in the animation toolbar press or ANIMATION > START to
You should now have 2 snapshots. Go back to the Constraints tab and generate all the intermediate frames between Snapshot1 and Snapshot2.
change the unlock (remove tick) the Body-Body lock. Move the screw to a
new position then replace the tick to lock the screw movement. Take two Once generated you can press or ANIMATION > PLAYBACK to play
more snapshots with handle closed (Snapshot3) and open (Snapshot4). the sequence again using the Animate dialog which has controls like a
Close the dialog. We have just defined 4 events that need to be turned into video recorder.
an animation.

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 6
 Mechanism Design

Figure 14 : Animate Dialog

You will see that the open of the mole grips happens in the first 2 secs of
the animation. We can add more events to the animation. Click on the
Mole animation in the timeline to select it then right click on it and choose
EDIT KFS. The Keyframe Editor will be displayed. Select Snapshot1 from
the dropdown list, type a time of 4 and press . Select Snapshot3 from
the dropdown list, type a time of 6 and press . Select Snapshot4 from
the dropdown list, type a time of 8 and press .Select Snapshot3 from
the dropdown list, type a time of 10 and press . The events are all
shown in Figure 13. Close the dialog. Now in the animation toolbar press
or ANIMATION > START to generate all the intermediate frames again.
Next press or ANIMATION > PLAYBACK to play the animation. The
mole grips should open and close, the screw position should move and
then they should open and close again.
In the Animate dialog the CAPTURE option can be used to capture an
MPEG movie from the sequence which can be replayed in Media Player.

Review
So what should you have learnt?
How to assemble mechanisms using different joint types.
How to drag mechanisms.
How to create and save animations.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 6
 Advanced Mechanisms
Part for assembly References

Joint
This tutorial builds on the experience of working with mechanisms
provided in the MECHANISMS tutorial. It is essential that you have Reference 1 Reference 2
None None
completed and fully understand that tutorial before you progress on these
more advanced functions.

None
Two new functional areas are covered here. First the concept of using
gears and drivers to power mechanisms is covered. Secondly a novel use
for mechanism in preparing assembly instructions is demonstrated. The Bracket.prt
whole tutorial is based around the mechanism shown in Figure 1 which is Mate face surface of Align washer axis A_3 to
washer to face surface of bracket axis A_8
a simple wash/wipe assembly for the rear window of a hatchback car. bracket

Assembly only
Washer.prt
Axis alignment Translation base of
gearwheel A_2 with gearwheel with top of
washer A_3 washer

Pin Joint
Gearwheel.prt

Align gearshaft axis A_2 Mate face surface of

to bracket axis A_8 gearshft to face surface of
bracket

Assembly Only
Figure 1 : Wash/Wipe Mechanism

Mechanism Review
Gearshaft.prt
By way of review we will go through the process of assembling the Align motor axis Mate face
mechanism. This uses the techniques already shown in the A_2 to bracket surface of and align
axis A_6 motor to motor axis A_5 to
MECHANISMS tutorial and so instructions will be brief. If you need to, bracket axis A_8
underside of
refer back to the earlier tutorial.

Assembly Only
bracket

Create a new empty assembly file called wipermechanism and assemble

the mechanism in the following order using the joint properties described
in this table. Some assembled pairs (marked assembly only) do not
require a joint and should be assembled in the normal way. The steps with
a grey background can be omitted without affecting the function of the Motor.prt
mechanism if you are short of time.

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
Axis alignment pinion Translation top of pinion Align nut7mm axis A_2 to Mate base surface of
A_2 with motor A_2 with top of motor shaft arm axis A_10 nut7mm to top of arm

Assembly Only
Pin Joint
Pinnion.prt Nut7mm.prt
Align nut3mm axis A_2 to Mate base surface of Axis alignment longarm Translation bottom of
motor axis A_5 nut3mm to underside of A_5 with gearwheel A_46 longarm with top of step on
motor bracket gearwheel
Assembly Only

Pin Joint
Nut3mm.prt Longarm.prt
Align axle axis A_2 to Mate base surface of axle Axis alignment longarm
bracket axis A_7 to top of bracket A_6 with arm A_6
Assembly Only

Cylinder Joint
Create a second joint in the same part

using the button

Axle.prt Align nut7mm axis A_2 to Mate base of nut7mm with

Align nut7mm axis A_2 to Mate base surface of gearwheel axis A_46. step on gearwheel with 2.5
bracket axis A_7 nut7mm to underside of offset.
motor bracket

Assembly Only
Assembly Only

Nut7mm.prt
Nut7mm.prt Align nut7mm axis A_2 to Mate base of nut7mm with
Axis alignment arm Translation base of axle arm axis A_6. top surface of arm with 2.5
A_10 with axle A_2 with top of step on axle offset.
shaft

Assembly Only
Pin Joint

Nut7mm.prt
Arm.prt

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
Align wiper axis A_3 to Mate inside surface of
arm axis A_11. wiper with top surface of
arm.

Assembly Only
Wiper.prt
Align blade axis A_8 to Mate front datum plane of
wiper axis A_9. blade with front datum
plane of wiper.
Assembly Only

Blade.prt
Align pin axis A_2 to Mate front surface of pin
wiper axis A_9. with end surface of wiper. Figure 2 : Gears Dialog
You now have to define the two gears. First pick the joint axis the yellow
Assembly Only

arrow symbol at the centre of the large gearwheel. Click on the Gear2
tab and pick the joint axis for the pinion gear. On the properties tab change
the Gear Ratio to user defined. The gearwheel (Gear1) has 42 teeth and
the pinion (Gear2) has 12 teeth so enter these values in the boxes.
Exit the dialog and try dragging the mechanism to check that the gears
Pin.prt now mesh correctly.
If you have assembled the mechanism correctly you should now be able to
enter mechanism mode (APPLICATION > MECHANISM) and drag the Drivers
wiper blade to flex the mechanism using the MECHANISM > DRAG . If Of course with a real wiper you dont move it by dragging the wiper! You
the mechanism does not flex you will need to check each of the assembly turn on the motor. The equivalent in Mechanism is to define a driver to turn
steps for accuracy particularly check that you have selected the axis of the gear on the motor. One type of driver called a servo motor - can be
the correct body at each stage. created using MECHANISM > SERVO MOTORS and pressing the NEW
button. The dialog in Figure 3 will be shown.
Gears Like gears you first have to select the axis of the motor so pick the yellow
You may notice as you drag the mechanism that the pinion gear on the arrow at the centre of the pinion. On the profile tab you can define how
motor does not move. There is no connection between the two gears. A quickly the motor turns. Change the specification from position to velocity
connection can be created using MECHANISM > GEARS and pressing and enter a value into the A pane below Magnitude. This value specifies
the NEW button. The dialog in Figure 2 will be shown. the speed of rotation of the motor in degrees per sec. This motor turns at
120rpm or 2 rev per second or 720 deg per sec so enter 720 as the value.
This means each wipe takes 3.75/2 or just under 2 secs.

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
the mechanism simulation. So to start open the wipermechanism
assembly and choose FILE > SAVE AS and enter a new name such as
wiperassembly. You will notice that the file that is open in front of you now
is still wipermechanism so choose FILE > CLOSE WINDOW then FILE >
OPEN and locate the newly created wiperassembly file. This is of course
currently identical to the original assembly file.
Now we need to modify this file to simulate the assembly. Basically each
part in the assembly needs to be defined by a joint which allows the part to
move along the direction it will be assembled.
Figure 3 : Servo Motor Dialog For example the second part in the assembly is the washer. Originally this
To see the motor in operation it is necessary to define an Analysis using was assembled without a joint at all. It now needs to be assembled with a
MECHANISM > ANALYSES and creating a New analysis. First define the joint that allows the washer to move along the axis of the washer this
graphical display parameters. Enter the values shown in Figure 4. Also type of joint is called a cylinder (you could also use a slider but that also
restricts rotation which is not necessary). This modification (using EDIT
click on the Motors tab and press the or button to add the motor DEFINITION) is shown in Figure 5.
definition to the analysis. When this is done you should be able to press
the RUN button at which point the motor will run and the mechanism will Step 1. Delete the
be flexed through its full range of movement you should see the MATE constraint
movement on the screen. using . Step 3. Hold CTRL
and ALT and drag
the part to its
Step 2. Convert
position before
constraint into a joint
assembly.
by clicking on
Connections arrow.

Figure 5 : Modifying the Washer

Other parts, such as the gearwheel already have a joint defined but the
joint is the wrong type and can be changed e.g. the pin joint can be
changed to a cylinder joint).

Step 1. Change the Step 2. Hold CTRL

joint to the and ALT and drag
appropriate type. the part to its
position before
assembly.
Figure 4 : Analysis Definition

Assembly Simulation
One novel use of mechanisms is to simulate the steps undertaken in the
process of assembling the components together. To achieve this is a Figure 6 : Modifying the Gearwheel
different set of joints would be needed than those used in the mechanism
so it is necessary to save the assembly simulation as a different file from

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
So to prepare the current model into an assembly simulation you need to Pinion.prt Convert PIN joint to CYLINDER.
go through each part in turn, right click on the name in the feature tree and Move to starting position.
choose EDIT DEFINITION then create or change the joint type. Finally,
drag the part to a position away from the assembly in the position where
it would start the assembly process. Close the assembly dialog and move
on to the next part. The following table describes the joints for each part.

Part Name Modification Result Nut3mm.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Bracket.prt No Change Move to starting position.

Washer.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position.

Axle.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position.

Gearwheel.prt Convert PIN joint to CYLINDER.

Move to starting position.

Nut7mm.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position.
Gearshaft.prt Delete the MATE constraint.
Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position

Motor.prt Delete the MATE constraint. Arm.prt Convert PIN joint to CYLINDER.
Convert to CYLINDER joint. Move to starting position.
Move to starting position.

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
Nut7mm.prt Delete the MATE constraint. Wiper.prt Delete the MATE constraint.
Convert to CYLINDER joint. Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position. Move to starting position.

Longarm.prt Convert PIN joint to CYLINDER

at both ends.
Move to starting position.

Blade.prt NOTE THIS IS DIFFERENT TO

ALLOW THE BLADE TO SLIDE
INTO POSITION.
Delete the ALIGN constraint.
Convert to PLANAR joint.
Move to starting position.

Nut7mm.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position.

Pin.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position.

Nut7mm.prt Delete the MATE constraint.

Convert to CYLINDER joint.
Move to starting position.

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
The assembly should now have all the joints defined and the parts in their We now have to create a snapshot with each component in its assembled
starting positions. Now we have to create an animation. You did this in the position. You could use the drag icon to position each part in its
MECHANISM tutorial but we will review and introduce some new functions assembled position but there are some more accurate functions we can
now. use.

Creating an Animation The CONSTRAINTS tab provides functions to control the position of
components. There are functions similar to assembly functions such as
To define an animation choose APPLICATION > ANIMATION. (You may MATE and ALIGN but these are temporary constraints only. Choose the
get a warning message about invalid servo motors because the servo
motor defined earlier is no longer valid this can be ignored) The screen MATE icon now and pick the top surface of the bracket and the bottom
will change with the important addition of an area below the main graphics surface of the washer. The washer should snap to the correct assembled
window. This is where the timeline editor will appear. A timeline defines position. You may find that some of the other parts move as well due to
what events happen and at what time they start/stop. But what are these the internal relationships. You can use the drag icon to reposition these
events and how do we define them? In simple terms an event is a other parts to their original position at which point you can use the camera
mechanism position. The model can be dragged to different positions and
a snapshot taken of the model in that position. Here is how icon again to take another snapshot of the mechanism after the
washer is assembled. This will be called Snapshot2.
Choose the icon or the ANIMATION > SNAPSHOT command. The This basic procedure needs to be repeated for every part if the assembly.
Drag Dialog shown in Figure 6 will appear.
Some of the parts (the Blade) may require MATE and/or ALIGN
functions to correctly position them. Dont forget after each position is
defined to take a snapshot. When the mechanism is fully assembled you
should have 17 snapshots or events defined that need to be turned into an
animation. Close the Drag dialog.

Figure 6 : The Drag Dialog

You can use the camera icon at the top of the dialog to take snapshots
of the mechanism in its current position. Do this now to save a snapshot
of the mechanism in its starting position. This will be saved under the
name Snapshot1.

Figure 7 : Key Frame Editor

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 8
 Advanced Mechanisms
Press the icon or choose ANIMATION > KEY FRAME SEQUENCE. However you may wish to change the view during the animation this is
Choose NEW and the Keyframe Sequence Editor dialog appears (see possible using the ANIMATION > VIEW @ TIME or icon. First though
Figure 7). Type Assembly in the name field. Below Keyframe Snapshot1 you have to define the views that you want using the VIEW > VIEW
should be listed and time 0.000. In the dialog press to add this ORIENTATION > REORIENT command (use the mouse to get the view
Snapshot1 to the animation. Then select Snapshot2 from the list and you want then press type in a meaningful name then press SAVE).
change the time to 1 and press again (The time of 1 sec could be set Create two views now one called CLOSEUP which is zoomed into the
to the actual time that this part of the assembly takes). Repeat this process motor end of the bracket and one called FAR which shows the whole
fro each of the 17 snapshots defined. Press OK. You should see the assembly. Now you have the views you need choose ANIMATION > VIEW
Assembly animation appearing in the timeline. You can right click on the
timescale at the bottom of the screen and choose EDIT TIME DOMAIN to @ TIME or icon. Choose CLOSEUP as the name and a time of 0 then
change the overall time (to 16 secs) and frame rate of the animation press the apply button. Choose CLOSEUP again and a time of 12 then
period. press the apply button. Choose FAR and a time of 14 then press the apply
button. Close the dialog. In the timeline at the bottom of the screen a
Now in the animation toolbar press or ANIMATION > START to second line should have appeared with the view names. Now in the
generate all the intermediate frames between the snapshots. Once animation toolbar press or ANIMATION > START to generate all the
generated you can press or ANIMATION > PLAYBACK to play the intermediate frames between the snapshots and then or ANIMATION >
sequence using the Animate dialog which has controls like a video PLAYBACK to play the sequence. The animation should start with a close-
recorder. up then after 12 secs zoom out.

Review
So what should you have learnt?
How to assemble mechanisms using different joint types.
How to create gears and motors
How to simulate the assembly process.
How to create and save animations.
How to change the view during an animation.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

Figure 8 : Animate Dialog

In the Animate dialog the CAPTURE option can be used to capture an
MPEG movie from the sequence which can be replayed in Media Player.
Notice that position of the mechanism and the view that you are looking at
the mechanism from is independent so you can look at the mechanism
from any viewing position before playing the animation. It is normal to
zoom in on the centre of the assembly in this case the bracket so that
the parts appear from of the screen as they are assembled.

By D Cheshire Page 8 of 8
 Dynamic Mechanism Design
It is essential that you have completed the previous two tutorials on Joint Definitions
mechanisms from this series before starting this one. The part and As you drag this mechanism you will probably have noticed that the
assembly files for this model can downloaded from the internet and can be damper joint moves too far. The parts can actually move so they pass
found at http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/ProeDocs in the Dynamics through each other. This means the suspension travel is much too large.
section. Save all 7 parts and 1 assembly to your working directory. Any joint in Pro Engineer can have it movements restricted heres how.
Open the assembly and you will see that the mountain bike has already
First use the DRAG tool to position the mechanism such that the
been assembled for you and operates correctly as a mechanism. Check
damper is near one extreme of its travel as shown in Figure 2 (you may
this out now by using the DRAG command. Some points worth noting
are:- want to switch to hidden line display to see this). Then choose
MECHANISM > JOINT AXIS SETTINGS and pick the SLIDER joint to
1. The method used to model the frame of the bicycle. define its settings. Press the MAKE ZERO button to define the current
2. The front wheel is the first part assembled and is effectively locked position as the zero location. Next click on the Properties tab in this dialog
to ground so it doesnt move. and tick Enable Limits and enter the values for maximum and minimum
travel. This damper has a range of 50mm and the travel is in the opposite
3. The rear wheel is assembled using a planar joint so it is free to direction to the joint so the maximum value will be 0 and the minimum -50.
move backward and forward as the suspension flexes since the
wheelbase will change. The SLIDER joint

Figure 2 : Joint Limits

Now if you DRAG the model the movement should reflect a real bike
frame.

Springs
Although the bike moves correctly there are some elements of the bike
Figure 1 : The Bike suspension that are missing. The first of these is the spring. It is possible
Review all these features now and ensure you understand how they were to model a spring using the HELICAL SWEEP command and this would
achieved by referring to the earlier mechanism tutorials. You may even look like a spring. For the analysis of mechanisms we need a spring that
prefer to create your own assembly file and assemble your own cycle to reacts correctly like a spring applying forces as it is compressed. This type
ensure you fully understand the process. of spring can be defined in mechanisms. Make sure you are in
mechanism analysis mode (APPLICATION > MECHANISM) then choose

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 5
 Dynamic Mechanism Design
MECHANISM > SPRINGS and create a NEW spring. From the dialog box different rates for compression and bump). Enter a value of 1.1 for the
which appears (Figure 3) you will see there are two ways of defining the damping constant C. Choose OK to finish the definition.
spring on a joint axis or point-to-point. We will use the point-to-point
option so choose this then pick the 2 points that have already been
created in the model called SHOCKTOP_POINT and
SHOCKBOTTOM_POINT. One of the advantages of using point-to-point is
that Pro Engineer will create a visual representation of the spring untick
the Default option for the icon and type a diameter of 36.
Finally we have to define the dynamic properties of the spring. The force
created by a spring is directly related to the compression of the spring (Pro
Engineer has no facility for variable rate springs). Most springs start of with
some pre-compression so the actual force from a spring is given by the
formula Force=k*(x-U) where K is the spring stiffness (N/mm) and U is the
free length of the spring (mm). Enter values of 190 for k and 125 for U.
Choose OK to see the spring icon which may not be perfect but it is a
reasonable representation
Figure 4 : Damper Settings

Materials
Closely related to the gravity settings are the material properties. The
3
default density assigned by Pro Engineer is 1 tonne/mm which means
parts will be extremely and have very high inertia they will be difficult to
move! To set the correct density values choose MECHANISM > MASS
PROPERTIES.

Figure 3 : Spring Settings

Dampers
The second missing element is the damping action which is created in a
similar manner. Choose MECHANISM > DAMPERS and create a NEW
damper. From the dialog box which appears (Figure 3) you will see there
are three ways of defining the damper. Though it is less important in this
case we will be consistent and use the point-to-point option so choose this
then pick the same two points SHOCKTOP_POINT and
SHOCKBOTTOM_POINT. The damping force created by a damper is
related to the velocity of movement of the damper multiplied by a damping
constant C (Pro Engineer has no facility for variable rate dampers or Figure 5 : Material Density

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 5
 Dynamic Mechanism Design
Pick one of the parts in the mechanism (say the frame) and change the
Define Properties by to Density. The DENSITY field should now be
3
editable and you can type in a value in tonne/mm . (Aluminium 2.7936e-9,
Steel 7.82708e-09, Nylon 1.20014e-09). Change the value to aluminium
for ALL the parts in this assembly. Dont forget to do all the parts otherwise
the later calculations will not work correctly.

Gravity Forces
If the mechanism is to react correctly gravity must be specified. This is
easily set using MECHANISM > GRAVITY. Note the units required in this Figure 7 : Setting an Initial Condition
dialog mm/sec2 so the normal (earth) value is 9810. The direction for this Whilst you are here drag the mechanism so that the damper is fully
model is -1 in Y. extended and create a second snapshot called DamperMax. Then create
a second NEW condition called EXTENDED and select the second
snapshot you have just saved. Click OK to finish.

Static Analyses
Now we are ready to start to analyse the model. The first type of analysis
we will investigate is called a static analysis. This type of analysis will take
into account all of the forces on the mechanism and find the equilibrium
position. Lets start with a simple situation the bike is standing still with
no rider seated just supporting its own weight. In this situation you would
expect that if the suspension is designed correctly the damper would be
Figure 6 : Gravity stretched to its maximum limit. Lets see how we can prove this.

Initial Conditions Choose MECHANISM > ANALYSES and create a NEW analysis. Change
the settings in the dialog to reflect those in Error! Reference source not
We are soon going to start to analyse this mechanism soon. To do this it is found.. You will need to change the Name, Type, Initial Configuration and
useful to have a known starting position called an Initial Condition in Pro Tick Enable Gravity in the Ext Loads tab.
Engineer. Initial conditions can specify the start position, velocity and
acceleration of a mechanism. We are only interested in the start position
which is defined by a snapshot. Drag the mechanism so that the damper s
fully compressed and save this as a snapshot called DamperMin as
described in the earlier Basic Mechanisms tutorial (hint : use the icon
in the DRAG dialog). Now choose MECHANISM > INITIAL CONDITIONS
to define the start conditions. Create a NEW condition and the dialog in
Figure 7 will be displayed. Call the condition COMPRESSED and select
the snapshot you have just saved.

Figure 8 : Defining a Static Analysis

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 5
 Dynamic Mechanism Design
If you press RUN now you should see the model gradually changing the
position as the program iterates the equilibrium position. The graph that
appears also reflects the program homing on the correct position if the
final point is plotted at a Y axis value of zero you know the model has
found the equilibrium. If you look carefully at the damper you should see
that it has stretched to its maximum length as you would expect. Press OK
to finish this analysis.

Loads
Lets use a similar analysis to find out how much the damper would
compress when a rider sits on the seat. The rider weighs 12
stone/168lbs/76Kg so the force which will be applied to the seat will be
750N. This load can be created using MECHANISM > FORCE/TORQUE Figure 10 : Forces in a Static Analysis
and creating a NEW force.
Just like the last analysis the model should home in on the equilibrium
position but you would now expect the damper to be just a little
compressed zoom in to the damper to see this is the case.

Dynamic Analyses
A second type of analysis will also be useful in designing this bike. If the
rider goes over a large jump a correctly designed suspension should
compress but not reach its full travel or bottom out. Lets test this using a
dynamic analysis. The parameters for this test are that a force of 8 times
the riders weight will be applied for 0.02 sec and then a constant load
equal to the riders weight will be applied.

Figure 9 : Creating Forces

Call the force Rider and apply it as a Point Force picking the predefined
point on the end of the seat stem as the location. The force will be a
Constant 750N. Check the Direction tab and ensure the vector is set to -1
in Y.
Now create a new static analysis just like you did before. Call this analysis
SEATED and set all parameters just like the STATICPOSITION analysis
but also make sure the RIDER force appears in the Ext Loads tab. Run the
analysis. Figure 11 : Dynamic Analysis

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 5
 Dynamic Mechanism Design
To prepare for this analysis create a second force called JUMP which is 8 Review
times the RIDER load (6000N).
So what should you have learnt?
Now create a new analysis called JUMP. Change the type to DYNAMIC
and the duration to 0.1 then switch to the EXT LOADS tab and add both How to define joint limits, springs, dampers and forces.
the RIDER load and the JUMP load over the durations shown in Figure 11. How to create static and dynamic analyses.
How to create measures.
Run the analysis and you should see the damper compresses to near its
full extent then bounces back before settling back to normal riding position. Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
Measures
Watching the action on the screen is not very accurate. You may need to
know more precisely some value from the mechanism such as how the
damper length varies over the duration of the dynamic analysis. This is
known in Pro Engineer as a measure. Measure are available for lots of
things such as velocity, acceleration, forces as well as distance.
To create a measure choose MECHANISM > MEASURES. In the dialog
choose to create a new measure. Type a name of DAMPERLENGTH
and a type of SEPERATION picking the SHOCKTOP_POINT and
SHOCKBOTTOM_POINT. Click OK on the Measure Definition dialog. Now
highlight the DAMPERLENGTH measure and the JUMP result set and the
small graph icon at the top of the dialog should activate. Press this icon
to see the results.

Figure 12 : Creating a Measure

You could experiment with the spring and damper definitions to see the
effect on this analysis dont forget to RUN the analysis after you make
each change.

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 5
 Warp Modeling
Warp features are a fairly new addition to Pro Engineer Wildfire that allows
global modifications to be made to a solid model. It is like having the ability
to turn your solid model into a lump of plasticine and then bend twist and
stretch the whole model into shape. These techniques allow you to make
some very complex shapes which you could not make by any other
method within a solid modeller. The tools you have for the control of these
shapes are fairly versatile (if a little tricky to use at first) but due to the
global nature of the modifications the control may not be as precise as with
other functions you are used to in Pro Engineer Wildfire. That said, as you
can see from Figure 1 you can make some very unusual shapes.
Figure 2 : Initial Extrusion
Now its time to warp this simple shape into something more interesting.
Choose INSERT > WARP and you will see the warp dashboard displayed
at the bottom of the screen. This has several for the different warp
functions and a series of menus which hide functions which are very
useful.

Figure 3 : The Warp Dashboard

The different warp functions are summarised in Figure 4. The functions all
operate by allowing the operator to interactively change the geometry. This
is done by dragging control points on the geometry around with the
mouse.
TRANSFORM - Rotate, BEND Bends the geometry along
scale or translate the an axis. You can control the bend
model. angle, the range of bend, pivot point,
and the bend radius.
WARP - Uses edges and TWIST Twists the geometry
corners of a surrounding around an axis. You can control the
Figure 1 : Completed Lamp box to change the shape angle of the twist and the range of
of the geometry. the twisting effect.
Creating the Bracket SPINE Use a curve to SCULPT Use a mesh of control
adjust the overall shape points to adjust the overall shape of
Create a new part called Lamp_Bracket and choose mmns_part_solid as of the model either the model.
the initial template. In this part create the simple extruded hexagon shown linearly or radically.
in Figure 2. To help you draw the hexagon in the sketcher draw a 25 circle STRETCH - Stretches the
then right click on it and choose CONSTRUCTION. The circle will then be geometry along an axis.
shown dotted as a construction line and you can draw the six lines making You can control the range
up the hexagon inside this circle. Make three of the lines equal in length to and scale of the stretch.
ensure it really is a hexagon. Extrude it to 300mm length. Figure 4 : Warp Functions

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 5
 Warp Modeling
Your First Warp So how do you use this to add a taper? The drop down list box on the
warp dashboard will probably be set to OPPOSITE change this to
We will introduce the warp functions by working on the hex bar we have CENTRE. Now drag the arrow handle highlighted in Figure 7 to create a
just created to make it taper along its length. If you have just issued the tapered bar.
INSERT > WARP command Pro Engineer should be waiting for you to
select the solid to be warped so pick the extruded hex bar and click on OK Use this handle
in the select dialog on the right of the screen. You will immediately be to add a taper.
asked to pick a reference for the warping so pick the coordinate systems
PRT_CSYS_DEF. The warp tools should now be active in the dashboard -
press on the second button . The bar should now be surrounded by a
box (known as a marquee) with square grab handles with which you can
drag the model. Try dragging the model now to see what effect each of the
drag handle has when you click on a corner you will get additional drag
arrows to play with
Figure 7 : Warp taper
As you drag a handle you get visual feedback of the changing shape.
There is also a numeric value that you can change which appears in the
OPTIONS menu. The higher this number the greater the effect of the warp
command and the more the shape tapers change this value to 6. If you
tick the adjacent box the value can be changed later using the EDIT

command like any other dimension. Press the green tick to finish the
warp feature creation.
Figure 5 : Warp Drag Handles
The Twist Warp
When you have played with the drag handles your model may well be
distorted. We need to restore its shape this is no problem because the You should now have a tapered hexagonal bar. Lets twist it around its
warp function has its own history under the LIST menu. Click on this menu length. Choose INSERT > WARP again and pick the extruded hex bar and
click on OK in the select dialog on the right of the screen. You will
now and use the delete icon to delete all of your modifications except immediately be asked to pick a reference for the warping so pick the
the first WARP : REFERENCE function. The dialog should look like Figure coordinate systems PRT_CSYS_DEF. The warp tools should now be
6.
active in the dashboard - press on the sixth button . A numeric input
window should appear in the dashboard into which you can type a twist
value in degrees. Type a value of 360 and tick the adjacent box to export
the value as an editable value. After entering this value the shape on the
screen will be unrecognisable! This is because it is twisting around the
wrong axis. Press the to cycle through the 3 axis until the shape is
correct. The icon changes the direction of the twist.

Figure 6 : Warp History

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 5
 Warp Modeling
To complete this part go back (move the insert here icon) and add an
extruded hole for the electric wires to go through (Extrude 3) and a lug to
aid assembly.

Figure 8 : Different Twist Axes

Press the green tick to finish the warp feature creation.

The Bend Warp

To finish the bracket we will add a bend. Choose INSERT > WARP again Figure 10 : Complete Bracket
and pick the twisted hex bar and click on OK in the select dialog on the
right of the screen. You will immediately be asked to pick a reference for
Creating the Shade
the warping so pick the coordinate systems PRT_CSYS_DEF. The warp
tools should now be active in the dashboard - press on the fifth button . Warps can be applied to models which can contain more than a single
A numeric input window should appear in the dashboard into which you feature. Making a lamp shade by the technique will show this.
can type a bend value in degrees. Type a value of 90 and tick the adjacent Create a new part called Lamp_Shade and choose mmns_part_solid as
box to export the value as an editable value. After entering this value the the initial template. In this part create the simple extruded circle of 200mm
shape on the screen will be as expected! This is because it is bending diameter shown in Figure 11. Extrude it to 250mm length.
around the wrong axis. Press the to cycle through the 3 axes until the
shape is correct. The icon changes the direction of the bend and the
icon rotates the shape by 90 degrees around the bend axis.

Figure 11 : Lampshade Feature 1

Figure 9 : Different Twist Axes
Next create a circular extrusion through the edge of the whole bar
Press the green tick to finish the warp feature creation. removing material.

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 5
 Warp Modeling
the shape by modifying an edge curve. Pick any one of the edges of the
rounds as the control curve and click on OK in the select dialog on the
right of the screen.

Figure 12 : Lampshade Feature 2

Make a pattern of 6 of the original extruded cuts at 60 degree intervals
around the central axis (use the AXIS option).
Figure 14 : Spine Warp
You can adjust the shape of this curve by dragging the control points
(dots) and the arrows which control the start direction (Figure 14a). Try this
now but dont be too ambitious in what you attempt! The results probably
wont be what you expected (Figure 14b). This is because you are using
the wrong TYPE of control. There are three types of control
. Click on the last of the three buttons and pick the
controlling curve again and edit it so that this time the effect of the curve is
Figure 13 : Lampshade Pattern Feature felt all around the shape (Figure 14c).
This is the basis of the lamp shade. Remember we are combining several warps so DONT press the green
tick yet. Next we will taper the lampshade so click on second button
Combined Warp and drag one of the corners at the top of the lampshade and drag to a
suitable taper (dont forget to set the CENTRE option - refer back to Your
The more interesting shape of the lamp will be created by a Spine, Warp
First Warp as a reminder).
and Twist Warps. These can be done as independent warps like we did
with the bracket or they can all be combined into a single warp feature.
This is what we will do here.

The Spine Warp

The spine warp lets us squash and stretch our lump of plasticine into a
new shape. Choose INSERT > WARP again and pick the lamp and click
on OK in the select dialog on the right of the screen. You will immediately
be asked to pick a reference for the warping so pick the coordinate
systems PRT_CSYS_DEF. The warp tools should now be active in the
dashboard - press the third button . This is the spine tool which controls
Figure 15 : Warp

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 5
 Warp Modeling
We havent finished so DONT press the green tick yet. Next we will twist
the lampshade so click on sixth button and type a twist angle of 60
degrees. Press the icon twice to cycle through the 3 axis until the
shape is correct (refer back to The Twist Warp as a reminder).

Figure 16 : Twist Warp

Take a look at the LIST menu and you should see the warp history of the
commands you have just completed. You can use the buttons at the
bottom to step backwards and forwards reviewing the procedure. Figure 18 : Complete the Lampshade
The other parts of the lamp are made from standard extrude and revolve
features. You may like to design these and create an assembly of all the
parts to complete the exercise.

Review
So what should you have learnt?
How to create individual warps
How to combine warps into a single feature.
Figure 17 : Warp History
Understand the limitations of using warp features
Press the green tick to finish the warp feature creation. All these Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
warps appear as a single feature in the feature tree. perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
Finish the lampshade design off by adding rounds, a shell, a full round and The Transform, Stretch and Sculpt Warps have not been discussed here.
an extruded cut. Experiment with these on your own models.

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 5
 Extra, Extra, Read all about it!
Here are some answers to questions that are often asked. The
explanations are brief as you are expected to be a competent user of
ProEngineer.

Underlay
It is a common technique to use a photograph as an underlay or guide
when sketching in a CAD model. Though not an explicit function of Pro
Engineer his can be achieved with a little work as follows.
Before you start you will need one or more orthographic digital pictures of
Figure 2 : Filled Surface
a product (photographs of a real object or scanned sketches of your own
design). Now we need to associate a picture with this surface. Choose View >
Color and Appearance to show the materials palette. In this dialog choose
Create a new part using the mmns_part_solid template. Insert a new
MATERIAL > NEW and change the name of the material to
sketch (INSERT > MODEL DATUM > SKETCH ) and draw a simple FrontPicture . Click on the MAP tab and click on the square button
rectangle on the FRONT datum. Adjust the size of this rectangle to be the next to DECAL . At the top of the dialog choose TEXTURE > ADD
overall size of part to be modelled. and using the dialog that appears to locate the texture. This can be any of
the common picture file formats (bmp, jpg etc) but you are strongly
advised to copy the picture file to the same directory as the model before
you apply it. After loading the picture click on its name to apply it to the
surface and CLOSE the Appearance Placement dialog. In the
Advanced tab of the Appearance dialog you may wish to adjust the
Transparency to say 80% so the texture is see through. Finally below
Assignment choose Surfaces and pick the fill surface choose OK and
BOTH. You can now use this picture as an underlay when drawing. You
can visually sketch on it but you cannot lock the points onto the picture.

Figure 1 : Outline Sketch

The next step is to fill this rectangle with a surface. Make sure the sketch
is selected in the model tree then choose EDIT > FILL. A surface will be
created to fill in the rectangle it will be more visible if you shade the Figure 2 : Completed Underlay
model.

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 3
 Extra, Extra, Read all about it!
You may want to repeat this procedure for the other datum planes adding Method 1 Multiple 2D tubes
pictures of the model from other directions.
The first method recognises that many 3D tubes can be made up of
several planar tubes connected at their ends. Think of a traditional racing
bicycle handle bars. These can be made up of two planar curves as shown
in Figure 4. This shows two curves being drawn on separate datum
planes. The ends of these curves meet and they are tangent. The tube
was made using the Variable Section sweep tool and the References >
Details button was used to add both curves to the Origin chain.

Figure 4 : Multiple 2D Tubes

Method 2 Tubes Thru Points

If the shape you want is a genuine 3D shape, use this procedure
First create a series of datum points to control the shape. Use INSERT >
MODEL DATUM > POINT > OFFSET COORDINATE SYSTEM and pick
on a coordinate system as a reference. Now enter the coordinates shown
in Figure 5.

Figure 3 : Dialog Boxes

Tubes
Figure 5 : Adding Datum Points
Creation of planar (2D) tubes in ProEngineer is easy using the Variable
Section sweep tool. What is not so obvious is how to create tubes that You can now use these points to create a datum curve using INSERT >
bend in all 3 dimensions. Here are two methods MODEL DATUM > CURVE (not SKETCH). Choose THRU POINTS |
DONE then pick one of the points (since they are a group they will all be
selected). Choose DONE and OK in the Dialog box to create the curve.

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 3
 Extra, Extra, Read all about it!
Figure 6 shows the difference between the curve type options. Now use If you change the length of the spring now by editing the 80 dimension to
the Variable Section sweep tool to create a tube from this curve. say 100 you will see that an extra coil is added. The spring hasnt
stretched as you might expect. To make the spring act more realistically
you can build in some relationships. Choose TOOLS > RELATIONS to see
the dialog in Figure 8. Click on the spring in the main window and choose
to show ALL dimensions. The dimension names not their values will be
shown. Notice that the pitch of the spring is d2 and the length is d0 (if
yours are different use your values. Enter the formula shown in into the
dialog. Click OK and now when you change the length of the spring the
coils should stretch just like the real thing. Can you work out what this
formula is doing? (Hint there are 4 coils in this spring)
Figure 6 : Curve Types (Spline, Single Rad, Multiple Rad)

Springs
There is a special function for creating springs in ProEngineer. Choose
INSERT > HELICAL SWEEP > PROTRUSION. From the side menu
choose the parameters you want for the spring CONSTANT | THRU AXIS |
RIGHT HANDED | DONE. Next choose a sketching plane such as the
FRONT datum then OK and DEFAULT. You should now be in sketcher.
Draw a line representing the outside shape of the spring. In the case of the
80 dimension represents the length of the spring and the 20 is half the
diameter of the spring. You will also need to draw a centre line for the
spring. After leaving sketcher you will be asked for the pitch of the spring
type in 20. You will now be back in sketcher this time to draw the cross-
section of the wire from which the spring is made draw a 5 circle on the
end of the line. Exit sketcher and choose DONE to see the spring.

Figure 8 : Spring Relationships

Figure 7 : Springs

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 3
 Turning
This tutorial introduces the concept of machining of turned parts using a
CNC lathe. A sample model of a turned part is provided for you to work
with in this tutorial. There is a link to it next to this tutorial at
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs/tutorials.htm and it is called
turnedpart.prt. This part should be downloaded to your working directory
before starting the tutorial.

Machining Setup
To start the tutorial, create a new file for the machining data using FILE >
NEW. Select MANUFACTURING and NC ASSEMBLY as shown in Figure
1 and type in a name such as turnedpart. In the New File Options dialog
that follows choose EMPTY.
Figure 2 : The Mould Part to Be Machined
As an aid to visualising the machining process it is beneficial (though not
essential) that the stock material from which this part will be machined is
defined. To do this choose MFG MODEL CREATE WORKPIECE
and type in the name turnedpart_work. Now choose PROTRUSION
EXTRUDE | SOLID | DONE to enter the extrude dashboard. If you have
completed the modelling tutorials you will be familiar with this function.
Enter the sketcher by choosing PLACEMENT and DEFINE from the
dashboard. Choose the RIGHT datum as the sketching plane then the
TOP datum as the reference plane. In the sketcher choose the FRONT
and TOP datums as references. Draw a 50mm diameter circle to represent
the bar from which this part is turned.

Figure 1 : Creating a New Machining File

The blank file created is ready to store all of the manufacturing
information. The first data to be inserted into the file is the actual model to
be machined. This is specified by the command from the right side menu
MFG MODEL ASSEMBLE REF MODEL and choosing turnedpart.prt
in the file list box. After the model to be machined appears in the window
choose DONE/RETURN.

Figure 3 : Workpiece Sketch

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 11
 Turning
Exit sketcher and type a length of 75mm for the extrusion. A cylindrical It is ESSENTIAL that the Z axis is correctly oriented if the turning operation
block of material the same size as the original bar from which the part is to is to be correct. The Z axis defines the rotation of the work in the lathe
be turned will be shown. After pressing to exit the dashboard the chuck. If the Z axis is incorrectly oriented then Pro Engineer will try and
material should be shown in transparent green. machine from the wrong direction. Click OK to close the dialog and ACS0
should appear in the model tree.
It is also useful to define the location of the position that the tool will return
to before/after each cut is taken. To specify this point we will define a
datum point with INSERT > MODEL DATUM > POINT > OFFSET
CORDINATE SYSTEM... As a reference point, choose the coordinate
system ACS0. Type a name of HOME and add a value of 30 in the X
column and 5 in the Z. Click OK to close the dialog and create this point.

Defining the Machining Operation

Figure 4 : Reference Model and Workpiece An operation is the term Pro Engineer uses to define the type of machine
that will be used for a sequence of cuts. Choose the command
When machining it is essential that you define the origin (0,0,0) for
MACHINING from the side menu and the dialog shown in Figure 6
machining. It is normal when turning to use centre of the end of the bar as
appears in which you define the Operation. Type in an Operation Name of
zero. This is done in Pro Engineer with a coordinate system. It would be
useful to create one now. Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > Turning. Press to go to the machine Tool Dialog and type in a
COORDINATE SYSTEM. The coordinate system dialog is displayed. This machine name of CNCLathe, choose a Machine Type of Lathe then press
is an intelligent dialog it will try and make sense of what you select.
Click on the FRONT, TOP and ENDFACE datum planes with the CTRL OK to return to Operation Setup. Next click on next to Machine Zero
key held down and the new coordinate system will be created at the and pick on the coordinate system ACS0. Close the dialog with OK.
intersection point of these 3 planes. Use the controls in the ORIENTATION
tab in the dialog to ensure the Z axis of this coordinate system is pointing
along the axis of the bar. If you picked the datums in the order suggested
you will just need to press the top FLIP button to make the Z direction out
of the workpiece.

Figure 6 : Operation and Machine Tool Setup Dialogs

Figure 5 : Defining the Coordinate System

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 11
 Turning
Defining the First Cut
We can now start the machining process. It would be good at this stage to
plan the sequence of events for machining. For this shape we will first
remove the mass of material around the finished part with a large tool,
leaving some material to be removed by a second finer cut. Later we will
machine the grooves and other features.
Now we start to define the first cut into the material. Choose MACHINING
NC SEQUENCE MACHINING | AREA | DONE. A series of
parameters is offered. Ensure that Name, Tool, Parameters, Start and End
are checked and then choose DONE. Type the name as RoughCut. Enter
the tool values as shown in Figure 7a and APPLY OK.

Figure 8 : The Customize Dialog

After choosing this option a line around the part will be drawn through the
cutting plane. A cross is shown on each corner of this line. Choose the two
crosses shown in Figure 9a to limit the extent of this cut. Next choose
ABOVE CTRLN > DONE and if necessary TOGGLE PROFILE to get the
curve shown in blue in Figure 9a before pressing DONE/RETURN.

Negative Z

then here

Pick here
Figure 7 : Roughing Tool and Manufacturing Parameters
From the MFG Params menu choose SET and enter the values as shown Positive Z
in Figure 7b then File > Exit and DONE. Now define the position of the tool
at the start by picking the HOME datum point created earlier then pick the
same HOME datum point a second time to define the position of the tool at Figure 9 : Defining a Profile by Section
the end of the machining sequence. This has defined the profile which the tool will follow but the shape
Next you will see the CUSTOMIZE dialog. This dialog allows you to define includes the grooves around the part and the hole in the end. These
the geometry that will be machined. Press INSERT to define a new cut should not be included so they need to be removed. In the CURVE: TURN
then choose CREATE PROFILE. There are lots of ways of creating the PROFILE dialog double-click on ADJUST TURN PROFILE to show the
profile which is going to be machined. We will start of by using the ADJUST PROFILE dialog. In this dialog click ADD to create a new
SECTION | DONE option. adjustment then pick the points in Figure 10. Press PREVIEW to see that

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 11
 Turning
the machine profile now misses out the groove the two points you chose Defining the Second Cut
are joined by a straight line. Add a similar adjustment to the other groove.
Click OK in the ADJUST PROFILE dialog and OK in the CURVE: TURN Have you pressed DONE SEQ. IF YOU DONT DO THIS YOU WILL
PROFILE dialog. ProEngineer next offers the opportunity to extend the LOOSE THE DEFINITION OF THIS TOOLPATH!
profile at each end to ensure a clean cut choose the options NEGATIVE Having completed the roughing toolpath we can now define a second
Z | DONE for the first end and POSITIVE Z | DONE for the second end as toolpath for the finishing cut. Choose NC SEQUENCE NEW
shown in Figure 9b. Then choose DONE CUT and the toolpath will be SEQUENCE MACHINING | PROFILE | DONE. Again a series of
previewed. Choose OK in the CUSTOMIZE dialog to finish the definition of parameters is offered. Ensure that Name, Parameters, Start and End are
this cut. checked then choose DONE. (Note : We havent chosen the Tool option
this time so the same tool as the previous cut will be used which is fine in
this case)
Pick here
then here Type the Name as FinishCut. At the MFG Params menu choose SET and
enter the values as shown in Figure 12 and FILE > EXIT and DONE.

Figure 10 : Profile Adjustment

This has defined all of the parameters needed to perform the cut. To see
the result of this machining exercise choose PLAY PATH SCREEN
PLAY. The actual tool paths will then be calculated and displayed in red Pick this
followed by a tool path simulation that can be run by pressing the profile

button. After this completes choose DONE SEQ. IF YOU

DONT DO THIS YOU WILL LOOSE THE DEFINITION OF THIS
TOOLPATH!

Figure 12 : Finish Manufacturing Parameters

SELECT the HOME datum point for the start and then SELECT the HOME
datum point a second time for the end of the cut. At the CUSTOMIZE
dialog choose INSERT. There is no need to create a new profile we can
use the same profile that we used for the previous cut so just choose
SELECT PROFILE and pick TURN_PROF_000 in the model tree (see
Figure 12b). Choose DONE CUT and OK in the CUSTOMIZE dialog.
To see the result of this machining exercise choose PLAY PATH
SCREEN PLAY like before. You may spot that the toolpath is actually
Figure 11 : The Rough Machine Toolpaths wrong! To see this more clearly choose PLAY PATH NC CHECK. This

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 11
 Turning
uses software called Vericut to simulate the machining process. A Defining the Groove Cuts
graphical representation of the part should appear on the screen after a
few moments. You can use the buttons in the bottom right of the screen to Have you pressed DONE SEQ. IF YOU DONT DO THIS YOU WILL
LOOSE THE DEFINITION OF THIS TOOLPATH!
play the toolpath . Use the solid green arrow to Having completed the roughing toolpath we can now define a second
play the path now.
toolpath for the finishing cut. Choose NC SEQUENCE NEW
SEQUENCE MACHINING | GROOVE | DONE. Again a series of
parameters is offered. Ensure that Name, Tool, Parameters, Start and End
are checked then choose DONE.
Type the Name as GrooveCut1 and in the Tool Setup dialog define a new
tool as shown in Figure 14 finishing with APPLY and OK.

Figure 13 : Cut Verification for Finish Cut

The yellow material shows the starting shape. The grey material is
correctly machined. The red colour shows the error. In its rush to get to the
home position the tool went straight through the part trying to cut at very
high speed. How can we stop this happening?
Close Vericut with FILE > EXIT. In the NC SEQUENCE menu choose SEQ
SETUP and tick PARAMETERS to redefine some of the settings for this
toolpath. Choose DONE then tick NC SEQUENCE | DONE SEL > SET. Figure 14 : Grooving Tool and Parametres Definition
The PARAM TREE dialog shown in Figure 12 should be shown. Only the
simple parameters are shown there are many more parameters which At the MFG Params menu choose SET and enter the values as shown in
are hidden until you press the ADVANCED button. Press this and scroll to Figure 12. Also change the START MOTION and END MOTION (under
the bottom of the list where you will see a parameter called START ADVANCED) to the values used before then FILE > EXIT and DONE.
MOTION. Change this to Z FIRST (select then use the INPUT list box at SELECT the HOME datum point for the start an end of the cut. At the
the top of the dialog). You will see a second parameter called END CUSTOMIZE dialog choose INSERT. We will use another method of
MOTION. Change this to Z LAST. This will ensure the movement at the defining the profile for the groove so choose CREATE PROFILE
start and end of the toolpath will move in two stages Z then X or X then Z. SELECT SURFACE | DONE. Using this option you have to define the
Choose FILE > EXIT then PLAY PATH in Vericut to see the changes. The surfaces forming the first and last segment of the cut profile. Choose the
red band should have gone leaving the correct shape in grey. surfaces shown in Figure 14b.
After this completes choose DONE SEQ. IF YOU DONT DO THIS YOU
WILL LOOSE THE DEFINITION OF THIS TOOLPATH!

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 11
 Turning
Having completed all of the machining steps you may want to check the
whole machining process by viewing in Vericut. To join all the steps
together you need to create an intermediate file containing all of the
toolpaths. CL DATA > OUTPUT > SELECT ONE > OPERATION then pick
the operation name TURNING > FILE > DONE and accept the name
turning.ncl for the filename. This has created a .ncl file in your working
directory. Choose DONE OUTPUT > NC CHECK > CL FILE and select the
file you just created. Choosing a final DONE will take you to Vericut where
you can view the whole machining process seeing the results in Figure 17.

Figure 15 : Start and End Surfaces

Next choose ABOVE CTRLN | DONE and OK in the Turn Profile dialog.
There is no need to modify this profile but the profile needs to be extended
at both ends with POSITIVE X | DONE. Finish with DONE CUT and OK in
the CUSTOMIZE dialog. PLAY PATH either to the screen or in Vericut
(which will only show this groove path) before finishing with DONE SEQ.

Figure 17 : The Finished Machined Part in Vericut

Axial Drilling
All lathes have the option of using a drill s a tool to cut holes axially along
the centreline of the work. Some lathes (like the Beaver Turning Centre at
Staffordshire University) can have live tooling drills which a powered by
the tool post and so can cut holes off the axis of rotation. This section
Figure 16 : First Groove describes how to program such movements.

Have you pressed DONE SEQ. IF YOU DONT DO THIS YOU WILL The model you have been working on has holes designed in it. These are
LOOSE THE DEFINITION OF THIS TOOLPATH! currently suppressed so they are invisible. To resume them so you can
see them follow the following steps illustrated in Figure 18
Repeat the process creating a new sequence for the second groove. The
step on the end of the part should also be machined as a groove. You can Expand the model tree under TURNEDPART.PRT
also use grooves to define parting off operations. 1. Click on SETTINGS at the top of the model tree
2. Choose TREE FILTERS to display the dialog.
NOTE : You have been shown two ways of creating the geometry to be 3. Tick Suppressed Objects and OK
machined SECTION and SELECT PROFILE. The most flexible method 4. Two patterns of holes will be shown in the model tree. The black
is SKETCH which allows you to draw the profile in sketcher. This method dot next to the name shows they are suppressed.
is not covered here but it is intuitive if you are familiar with sketcher. 5. Right click on each pattern and choose RESUME.

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 11
 Turning
2

Figure 18 : Resuming Suppressed Parts

Figure 20 : Drill Manufacturing Parameters
Two sets of holes should now be visible. The four holes in the end of the
part are the axial holes which will be drilled first. These holes are relatively You will now be asked to define the RETRACT plane. This is the position
easy to generate toolpaths for as the procedure is very similar to the other to which the drill will be withdrawn before moving to the next hole. Choose
sequences we have already created. From the MANUFACTURE menu FROM CSYS > 0.000000 to define the end of the workpiece.
choose MACHINING NC SEQUENCE NEW SEQUENCE You will now be asked to define the holes to be drilled. There are many
MACHINING | HOLEMAKING | DONE DRILL | STANDARD | DONE. ways to do this but probably the easiest is by diameter select all holes
Again a series of parameters is offered. Ensure that Name, Tool, that have a specified diameter. Click on the Diameters tab then press the
Parameters, Retract, Holes, Start and End are checked then choose ADD button and select the value of 5. Press the PREVIEW button and the
DONE. axial holes should be highlighted in red. The radial holes which are also 5
Type the Name as AxialDrill and in the Tool Setup dialog define a new diameter are not selected since they cannot be machined by a normal
MILLING tool as shown in Figure 14 then APPLY and OK. lathe. Click OK to close the HoleSet dialog and DONE/RETURN to
continue.

Figure 21 : Hole Selection

SELECT the HOME datum point for the start and end of the cut. PLAY
PATH to the screen to see the toolpath. If you try and play this path in
Figure 19 : Drill Definition
Vericut it will not simulate correctly as the holes are off the centre of
At the MFG Params menu choose SET and enter the values as shown in rotation. Choose DONE SEQ to finish.
Figure 12. Also change the START MOTION and END MOTION (under
ADVANCED) to the values used before then FILE > EXIT and DONE.

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 11
 Turning
The rest of the process is basically the same as for Axial Drilling so
perform the following steps while referring to Axial Drilling for more detail
1. Create a new NC Sequence.
2. Select a SEQ TYPE of Mill.
3. Choose HoleMaking and 5Axis (dont forget this!!).
4. Select Name, Tool, Parameters, Retract, Holes, Start and End.
Figure 22 : Axial Drilling Toolpath 5. Enter Name, Tool, Parameters as before.
6. For retract choose Along Z axis with a distance of 0.
7. For holes choose Axes tab, Pattern then choose Add. Now pick
Radial Drilling any of the axes for the four holes. All four holes will be selected
Have you pressed DONE SEQ. IF YOU DONT DO THIS YOU WILL then OK and DONE/RETURN.
LOOSE THE DEFINITION OF THIS TOOLPATH! 8. Define the Start and End points as normal.
To drill the final set of radial holes requires a machine type where the tool Screen play the toolpath to see the results.
moves along the X axis rather than the Z on a normal lathe. This type of
machine is known as a mill/turn as it combines the functions of both a
milling machine and a lathe. Since Pro/Engineer does not allow you to
change an existing machine type once you have created sequences for it
we need to create a complete new machine. Do this with MACHINING
OPERATION (from the MANUFACTURE menu) and you will see the
Operation dialog from Figure 23. Choose FILE > New in this dialog to
create a new operation. Type in an Operation Name of MillTurn. Press

to go to the machine Tool Dialog and choose FILE > New in this
dialog. Type in a machine name of CNCMiller, choose a Machine Type of
Mill/Turn, 3 Axis and tick Head 1 for Milling Capability then press OK to Figure 24 : Radial Drilling Toolpath
return to Operation Setup. Next click on next to Machine Zero and pick
on the coordinate system ACS0. Close the dialog with OK. Post Processing
Post Processing is the act of converting the toolpaths from a standard
language called a cutter location file (.ncl) to the language of your specific
CNC machines controller. The resultant file in Pro/Engineer is known as a
tape file (.tap) which contains all the G codes to control the CNC
machine. The post processor is a program that performs the translation
process. Even though Pro/Engineer comes with some general post
processors you must have the correct post processor for your specific
machine controller otherwise breakages may occur.
You were instructed how to create a CL file in the previous section. This
same file can be used to produce the CNC instructions via post
processing. To use this file choose CL DATA > POST PROCESS and then
select the filename turning.ncl followed by DONE. Pro/Engineer should
Figure 23 : Operation and Machine Tool Setup Dialogs

By D Cheshire Page 8 of 11
 Turning
now generate a list of the post processors available on your system.
These have names from UNCX01.1 to UNCX01.99 (milling) and APPENDIX
UNCL01.1 to UNCL01.99 (lathe). As you move the cursor over these
names a description of the post processor will be shown at the bottom of
File Structure
the main window. To use the Beavor Turning Centre at Staffordshire
University choose UNCL01.99 as the post processor. On completion an The machining operation in Pro/Engineer brings together data from
information window will be displayed and the file turning.tap will have been several places. This requires several files to be associated to the
created in your working directory. This file should be uploaded to the CNC manufacturing process. It is important to understand the structure of these
machine and checked by the operator before running. files because if one of these required files is deleted by mistake the whole
manufacturing process may be lost. Figure 25 shows this file structure.
Review
Turnedpart_temp.tph Turnedpart.mfg Turning.ncl
So what should you have learnt?
How to create a coordinate system. Turnedpart.asm Turning.tap
How to define stock material. To CNC
machine
How to define an operation.
How to define a cut area, profile groove and holemaking.
How to post process a file. Turnedpart.prt Turnedpart_work.prt

Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial Turnedpart.mfg Stores all manufacturing parameters
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
Turnedpart.asm Assembles model and work parts together
Turnedpart.prt The part to be machined

Turnedpart_work.prt The model of the stock material

Turnedpart_temp.tph Temporary geometry of all toolpaths

Turning.ncl Cutter location (CL) file

Turning.tap Post processed file which is sent to CNC machine

Cgtpro1.* Temporary files to interface with Vericut

*.acl, *.lst, *.mbx, *.tl Temporary files associated with creation of .tap file

Vericut.log Temporary log file for Vericut

Figure 25 : Manufacturing File Structure

The first part of the filenames will vary with your naming convention. The
grey boxes or ticked rows in the table must be kept to avoid loss of data.
The white files or crossed rows are not essential and can be deleted as
they will be recreated if required.

By D Cheshire Page 9 of 11
 Turning
Important Manufacturing Parameters Calculating Speeds And Feeds For Turning
ProEngineer provides an enormous amount of parameters to control each
Most tooling manufacturers catalogues will give formulas or tables for
machining sequence. These are set for any sequence through SEQ
calculating the most efficient speed of rotation (rev/minute) of the work
SETUP PARAMETERS | DONE SET | DONE. A table of parameters
(known as SPINDLE_SPEED in ProEngineer) and feed rate (m/sec) of the
will be displayed (See Figure 7, Figure 12 and Error! Reference source
tool along the work (known as CUT_FEED in ProEngineer). The
not found.). The ADVANCED button at the top of the table will show all of
manufacturers values should be used if available but if you do not have
the manufacturing parameters. There follows and explanation of the most
access to this information this simple method of calculating speeds and
important ones
feeds can be used.
To calculate the lathe spindle speed (N rpm)
Parameter Explanation Typical Setting
1000S
OUTPUT_POINT The position on the tool which is CENTER the centre N=
programmed. Should match the tooling of any radius on the D
offset on the machine you are using. tool tip is output.
where :
GOUGE_AVOID_TYPE Checks whether the tool will incorrectly TIP_&_SIDES
cut into the part. D= Diameter of workpiece (mm). Diameter of the finished piece
STOCK_ALLOW Amount of material to be left on the Operator choice
is usually used although blank diameter or mean diameter
part for a finishing cut. can also be used.
CUT_FEED The feed rate of the tool along the Use Figure 28 S= Recommended surface cutting speed (m/min) from the
work. See CUT_UNITS. following table
CUT_UNITS The units for CUT_FEED either MMPR
mm/rev or mm/min.
SPINDLE_SPEED The rotational speed of the work. See Use Figure 27. Material Surface Cutting Speed (m/min)
SPEED_CONTROL.
SPEED_CONTROL The units for SPINDLE_SPEED either CONST_SMM Rough Cuts Finish Cuts
rev/min or constant surface speed.
Machine Steel 27 30
START_MOTION How the tool approaches the work. Z_FIRST
Normally the tool should position along Tool Steel 21 27
the work axis Z before plunging into
the work along X. Cast Iron 18 24
END_MOTION How the tool leaves the work. Z_LAST Bronze 27 30
Normally the tool should leave along X
before being position along the work Aluminium 61 93
axis Z.
Figure 27 : Surface Cutting Speed
Figure 26 : Important Sequence Parameters
Alternatively, you can enter the surface cutting speed directly into
Pro/Engineer. In the advanced parameters of the Param Tree dialog
change the Speed Control from CONST_RPM to CONST_SMM (constant
surface speed in m/min). The values from the table above can now be
entered as the spindle speed.

By D Cheshire Page 10 of 11
 Turning
Tooling Available At Staffordshire University
A typical federate can be found from the following table
No Type Parameters Diagram
Material Feed Rate mm/rev 1 Axial Cutter Dia = 5 Side Angle = -
Mill/Drill Length = 10 No Teeth = 2
Rough Cuts Finish Cuts Corner Rad = -
Machine Steel 0.25-0.50 0.075-0.25 2 Not
Tool Steel 0.25-0.50 0.075-0.25 Defined

Cast Iron 0.40-0.65 0.13-0.30 3 Turn / Width= 11 Side Angle = 90

Groove Length = 23 End Angle = 90
Bronze 0.40-0.65 0.075-0.25 Nose Rad = 5.4
Aluminium 0.40-0.75 0.13-0.25
Figure 28 : Feed Rate 4 Not
Defined
Pro/Engineer normally expects feed to be entered in mm/min although this
can be changed in the advanced parameters of the Param Tree dialog (set 5 Radial Cutter Dia = 5 Side Angle = -
CUT_UNITS to MMPR). To convert the values above to mm/min multiply Mill/Drill Length = 12 No Teeth = 4
by spindle speed. Corner Rad = 2.5

6 Turning Length = 125 Side Angle = 92

Tool Width = 29.5 End Angle = 30
Nose Rad = 0.4 Side Width = 30
LEFTHAND

7 Turn / Width= 3 Side Angle = 90

Groove Length = 20 End Angle = 90
Nose Rad = 0.4

8 Not
Defined
9 Turning Length = 125 Side Angle = 92
Tool Width = 29.5 End Angle = 30
Nose Rad = 0.4 Side Width = 30
RIGHTHAND

By D Cheshire Page 11 of 11
 Milling
This tutorial introduces the concept of machining of freeform surfaces
using a 3 Axis CNC miller. A sample model of a mould half is provided for
you to work with in this tutorial. It can be found at
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs/tutorials.htm and is called
mould.prt. This part should be downloaded to your working directory
before starting the tutorial.

Machining Setup
To start the tutorial, create a new file for the machining data using FILE >
NEW. Select MANUFACTURING and NC ASSEMBLY as shown in Figure
1 and type in a name such as mould. Figure 2 : The Mould Part to Be Machined
To enable visualisation of the machining process it is beneficial (though
not essential) that the stock material from which this part will be machined
is defined. To do this choose MFG MODEL CREATE WORKPIECE
and type in the name mould_work. Now choose PROTRUSION
EXTRUDE | SOLID | DONE and create a rectangular block of material the
same size as the mould. (Hint : Pick the top surface of the mould as the

sketch plane. In sketcher pick and pick the top surface again and
ACCEPT to make a rectangle the same size as the mould. For extrude

depth choose up to surface and pick the bottom surface of the

mould). You should be able to work out how to do this from previous
experience of model creation. When you have done this the material
should be shown in transparent green.

Figure 1 : Creating a New Machining File

The blank file created is ready to store all of the manufacturing
information. The first data to be inserted into the file is the actual model to
be machined. This is specified by the command MFG MODEL
ASSEMBLE REF MODEL and choosing mould.prt in the file list box.
Choose DONE/RETURN and the model to be machined should appear in
the window. This is an (incomplete) half of a mould for an injection-
moulded part. The cavity for the part is to be machined from a rectangular
block of material. We can assume the outside surfaces of the block are
already finished to the correct dimensions.
Figure 3 : Reference Model and Workpiece

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 6
 Milling
When machining it is essential that you know where to consider the origin with a large tool, leaving some material to be removed by a second finer
(0,0,0) for machining to be. It is common to define one corner of the top cut with a smaller tool.
surface of the material as zero. This is done in Pro Engineer with a
An operation is the term Pro Engineer uses to define the type of machine
coordinate system. It would be useful to create one now. Choose INSERT
that will be used for a sequence of cuts. Since all our machining is taking
> MODEL DATUM > COORDINATE SYSTEM. The coordinate system
place on a single milling machine we only need a single operation.
dialog is displayed. This is an intelligent dialog it will try and make
sense of what you select. Click on the 3 sides of the block now in the order Choose the command MACHINING from the side menu and a dialog
shown in Figure 4. appears in which you define the Operation. A series of options are

provided. Type in an Operation Name of Milling. Press to go to the

machine Tool Dialog and type in a machine name of Miller, a
Pick 3 Machine_Type of Mill, and Number of Axes of 3 then press OK to return to
Operation Setup. Next click on next to Machine Zero, choose SELECT
and pick on ACS0. Finally click on next to Retract Surface and choose
ALONG Z AXIS and type a depth of 5. Close the dialog with OK.

Pick 1

Pick 2

Figure 4 : Defining the Coordinate System

The yellow icon shows the location of the coordinate system. Notice that
the Z axis is pointing up. This is MOST important as the milling tool will Figure 5 : Operation and Machine Tool Setup Dialogs
approach the material down the Z axis. If the Z axis is oriented wrong then
Pro Engineer will try and machine from the wrong direction. Click OK to DEFINING THE FIRST CUT
close the dialog and ACS0 should appear in the model tree.
Now we start to define the first cut into the material. Choose MACHINING
NC SEQUENCE MACHINING | SURFACE MILL | DONE. A series of
DEFINING THE MACHINING OPERATION parameters is offered. Ensure that Name, Tool, Parameters and Window
We can now start the machining process. It would be good at this stage to (dont miss this one) are checked and then choose DONE. Type the name
plan the sequence of events for machining. Since the outside surface are as RoughCut. Enter the tool values as shown in Figure 6 and APPLY OK.
already finished we do not need to machine these at all. Starting with the
rectangular block we will first remove the mass of material in the cavity

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 6
 Milling
On the Define Wind menu Choose Create Wind and type in a name of
cavity. Now Choose SELECT TANGNT CHAIN and pick on the top
edge of the cavity DONE and OK. A curve will be shown projected onto
the retraction plane which you defined earlier being 5 from the top surface.
This curve is a boundary within which the tool will be constrained. It will
machine all of the surfaces it can inside this boundary.

Figure 8 : The Machining Window

This has defined all of the parameters needed to perform the cut. To see
the result of this machining exercise choose PLAY PATH SCREEN
Figure 6 : Roughing Tool Parameters PLAY. The actual tool paths will then be calculated and displayed in red
followed by a tool path simulation that can be run by pressing the
From the MFG Params menu choose SET and enter the values as shown
in Figure 7 then File > Exit DONE. button. After this completes choose DONE SEQ. If you
dont do this you are likely to loose the definition of this toolpath!

If your options are

different to these you
chose the wrong type of
toolpath. Quit this
sequence and create a
new one ensuring you
choose the SURFACE
MILL option.

Figure 7 : Rough Manufacturing Parameters

Figure 9 : The Rough Machine Toolpaths

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 6
 Milling
Having completed the roughing toolpath we can now define a second
toolpath for the finishing cut. Choose NC SEQUENCE NEW
SEQUENCE MACHINING | SURFACE MILL | DONE. Again a series of
parameters is offered. Ensure that Name, Comments, Tool, Parameters
and Window are checked but NOT Define Cut and then choose DONE.
Type the Name as FinishCut. Enter the values as shown in Figure 10 and
also on the settings tab choose tool number 2 APPLY then OK.
If your options are
different to these
you chose the
wrong type of
toolpath. Quit this
sequence and
create a new one
ensuring you
choose the
SURFACE MILL
option.

Figure 11 : Finish Manufacturing Parameters

There is no need to define a new window so just choose SELECT WIND,
Close the search dialog then pick on the pink profile already created.
To see the result of this machining exercise choose PLAY PATH
SCREEN PLAY and then DONE. The actual tool paths will then be
calculated and displayed in red followed by a tool path simulation. Dont
forget to save the toolpath with DONE SEQ.
The toolpath definitions are now complete and as we have seen they can
be visualised to check accuracy using the PLAY PATH option. A true
simulation of the actual machining process can be achieved by choosing
MACHINING NC SEQUENCE and pick an existing sequence name
(ROUGH) then pick PLAY PATH NC CHECK RUN. This uses
software called Vericut to simulate the machining process. A graphical
Figure 10 : Finish Tool Parameters representation of the part should appear on the screen after a few
moments. You can use the buttons in the bottom right of the screen to play
At the MFG Params menu choose SET and enter the values as shown in
Figure 11 and FILE > EXIT and DONE. the toolpath . Use the solid green arrow to play the
path now.

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 6
 Milling
University choose UNCX01.99 as the post processor. On completion an
information window will be displayed and the file milling.tap will have been
created in your working directory. This file should be uploaded to the CNC
machine and checked by the operator before running

FILE STRUCTURE
The machining operation in Pro/Engineer brings together data from
several places. This requires several files to be associated to the
manufacturing process. It is important to understand the structure of these
files because if one of these required files is deleted by mistake the whole
Figure 12 : Cut Verification for Rough and Finish Cuts manufacturing process may be lost. Figure 13 shows this file structure.
Having completed all of the machining steps you may want to check the
whole machining process by viewing in Vericut. To join all the steps Turnedpart_temp.tph Mould.mfg Milling.ncl
together you need to create an intermediate file containing all of the
toolpaths. CL DATA > OUTPUT > SELECT ONE > OPERATION then pick Mould.asm Milling.tap
the operation name MILLING > FILE > DONE and accept the name To CNC
machine
milling.ncl for the filename. This has created a .ncl file in your working
directory. Choose DONE OUTPUT > NC CHECK > CL FILE and select the
file you just created. Choosing a final DONE will take you to Vericut where Mould.prt Mould_work.prt
you can view the whole machining process.
Mould.mfg Stores all manufacturing parameters
POST PROCESSING
Mould.asm Assembles model and work parts together
Post Processing is the act of converting the toolpaths from a standard
language called a cutter location file (.ncl) to the language of your specific Mould.prt The part to be machined
CNC machines controller. The resultant file in Pro/Engineer is known as a
tape file (.tap) which contains all the G codes to control the CNC Mould_work.prt The model of the stock material
machine. The post processor is a program that performs the translation
process. Even though Pro/Engineer comes with some general post Mould_temp.tph Temporary geometry of all toolpaths
processors you must have the correct post processor for your specific
Milling.ncl Cutter location (CL) file
machine controller otherwise breakages may occur.
You were instructed how to create a CL file in the previous section. This Millning.tap Post processed file which is sent to CNC machine
same file can be used to produce the CNC instructions via post
Cgtpro1.* Temporary files to interface with Vericut
processing. To use this file choose CL DATA > POST PROCESS and then
select the filename milling.ncl followed by DONE. Pro/Engineer should *.acl, *.lst, *.mbx, *.tl Temporary files associated with creation of .tap file
now generate a list of the post processors available on your system.
These have names from UNCX01.1 to UNCX01.99 (milling) and Vericut.log Temporary log file for Vericut
UNCL01.1 to UNCL01.99 (lathe). As you move the cursor over these
names a description of the post processor will be shown at the bottom of Figure 13 : Manufacturing File Structure
the main window. To use the Kryle Machining Centre at Staffordshire

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 6
 Milling
The first part of the filenames will vary with your naming convention. The D= Diameter of tool (mm).
grey boxes or ticked rows in the table must be kept to avoid loss of data.
S= Recommended surface cutting speed (m/min) from the
The white files or crossed rows are not essential and can be deleted as
following table
they will be recreated if required.
Material S for Rough S for Finish
EXERCISE Cuts Cuts
As an exercise you might want to create a second finishing cut in exactly Machine Steel 27 30
the same way as before however change the value for CUT_ANGLE from
Tool Steel 21 27
0 to 90 (You can see this value in Figure 11). This value specifies the
angle of the cut relative to the X axis a value of 0 means cut along the X Cast Iron 18 24
axis a value of 90 means cut across the X axis. Two finishing cuts are
sometimes used like this to improve surface finish. Bronze 27 30
Aluminium 61 93
REVIEW To calculate the feed rate (m/min)
So what should you have learnt?
NkT
How to create a coordinate system. F=
How to define stock material.
1000
How to define an operation. N = Tool speed (rpm)
How to define a cut using volume mill.
k = Machine Constant (use 0.17 for Kryle)
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
T= Number of teeth on tool
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

APPENDIX

CALCULATING SPEEDS AND FEEDS FOR TURNING

Most tooling manufacturers catalogues will give formulas or tables for
calculating the most efficient speed of rotation (rev/minute) of the work and
feed rate (m/sec) of the tool along the work (speeds and feeds). These
should be used if available but if you do not have access to this
information this simple method of calculating speeds and feeds can be
used.
To calculate the tool rotational speed (N rpm)
1000S
N=
D
where :

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 6
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
Creating a Part
In this part of the tutorial we will introduce you to some basic modelling
concepts. If you are already familiar with modelling in Pro Engineer you
will find this section very easy. Before starting to work through this tutorial
you need to be sitting in front of a computer terminal which has access to
Pro Engineer and be logged on. You tutor should have advised you of how
to log in already.

Start Pro Engineer by double clicking on the icon on your desktop or

from the START menu. The main application window should appear
shortly.
The next step is to create your first part. To do this use the menu FILE >
NEW. Figure 2 : Part Options
Well done you have made your first part! The part contains some
features already. The browser on the left shows 3 datum planes and a
coordinate system. So what are datum planes? As the word plane implies
these are flat areas that can be used as references for defining parts of
your model. In some case you can define models with out any datum
planes, in other cases they are essential. Many people choose to always
have a basic set of default datum planes (like the ones in your model)
defined as a starting point for their model. Datum planes are displayed as
rectangles that are just big enough to enclose the model. They are given
names by the system such as RIGHT, TOP and FRONT.

Figure 1 : The New Part Dialog Box

After choosing the new command a dialog box will appear as shown in
Figure 1. Notice that the Part option is already checked and type in
mechanica_bar as the name of this part (Note : Pro Engineer does not
allow spaces and other special characters in names).
A second dialog will appear offering different options for parts in
particular different units of measurement. Choose mmns_part_solid which
means the units of length will be millimetres and units of mass will be
Figure 3 : Start of the Part
Newtons and click on the OK button.

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 7
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
Now lets start modelling. Models are made from a series of building 100 into the depth field of the dashboard (See Figure 4) and click the
blocks called features. This model is so simple it will have only one feature green tick to finish.
called an extrusion. Second click about
here on the screen
Choose INSERT > EXTRUDE from the menu. You should see a new
toolbar appear like the one in Figure 4. This is called the dashboard and
contains all of the options for the type of feature you are creating.

Figure 4 : The Extrude Dashboard First click on the

horizontal reference
To start creating this feature click on PLACEMENT then DEFINE in the
dashboard and the SKETCH dialog appears. Notice that this dialog has
many fields but the sketch plane option is highlighted in pale yellow
awaiting your input. The sketch plane is a flat surface onto which you will
Figure 5 : Outline Sketch
draw your shape. Choose the datum plane TOP by clicking on it in the
graphics window or in the browser. The other fields in the Shape dialog To see this bar in all its glory choose the command VIEW >
are filled in automatically so you dont need to worry about them at the ORIENTATION > STANDARD ORIENTATION and try the different display
moment just click on the SKETCH button.
option icons . You can also look around your design press
The graphics screen will change to a black background looking directly on the middle mouse button and move the mouse to spin the model around.
to the sketch plane, and the drawing icons described will appear. You Middle mouse button and SHIFT key moves the model around the screen.
should also see a References dialog. References are used by Pro Middle mouse button and CTRL key zooms into the model you can use
Engineer to locate dimensions. Pro Engineer guesses at suitable the mouse wheel for this too.
references and in this case will have chosen the Right and Front datums
as shown in the main graphics window by the dotted lines. This is a good
choice in this case so you can CLOSE this dialog.

You are now ready to use sketcher. Choose the circle tool or SKETCH
> CIRCLE > CENTER AND POINT and draw the circle with two clicks as
shown in Figure 5.
Your window should now look like Figure 5 but the diameter of the circle
will be different. If the dimension isnt positioned exactly as in Figure 5
dont worry, just choose the select tool and click and drag the
dimension text to a new position. Now to set the size of the circle to the Figure 6 : First Feature
correct value, choose the selection tool and double click on the This is all the modelling you will need to do for this very simple part. You
dimension and type in the required value of 20. To end sketching choose are referred to the other modelling tutorials at
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs if you want to learn more.
and click OK in the Section dialog. To complete this first feature type

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 7
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
Starting an Analysis
You are now ready to start the analysis process. We can try several
different load cases on this simple bar and you can compare these with
manual calculations.
ProEngineer has two ways of running analyses. You can run the
ProMechanica software completely independently or you can run it in
integrated mode from within ProEngineer this has some small limitations
but is much more streamlined. We will use integrated mode. Choose
APPLICATIONS > MECHANICA now to take your model into analysis.
Click OK on the box notifying you of the units of your model.
The MODEL TYPE dialog should appear. If the FEM Mode option is ticked
you are running on a machine that does not have a licence for
ProMechanica. You will not be able to continue with this tutorial. If this is
not ticked accept the default STUCTURE mode and click OK. Figure 7 : The Constraint Dialog
ProMechanica can undertake different types of analysis. These are
Make sure the References option is set to SURFACE(S) then click on
Motion Analysis of mechanisms and assemblies. Only available below. Now pick one end of the bar then click OK in the small SELECT
when in an assembly file. dialog below the constraint dialog. You have picked one surface to
Structure Static loading of parts to calculate stresses. Also constrain and the & symbols show what movements are restricted
calculates vibrations. they all are, so this surface is fully constrained. Every model to be
analysed must be constrained at some point in all six degrees of freedom.
Thermal Applying thermal gradients to calculate heat Click OK in the constraint dialog to finish.
distribution.
This tutorial covers the structural analysis only. Make sure the MODE
option is set to STRUCTURE and click OK.

Defining Constraints
The first step for this model is to define the constraints. Constraints
determine where and how the model is held or fixed in position. We are
going to apply a tensile (pulling) force to the bar so one end needs to be
fixed.

Choose INSERT > DISPLACEMENT (or you could just pick the icon).
The constraint dialog will appear.

Figure 8 : Constraint Surface

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 7
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
Defining Loads If you look carefully at the graphics window you should see a symbol
Definition of loads is similar to constraints. Choose INSERT > displaying the X, Y and Z directions (if you cant see it make sure the
icon is clicked at the top of the window). This shows that for a tensile load
FORCE/MOMENT LOAD or pick the icon to apply a load over a to be applied along the bar we need to apply a load in the Y direction. So
surface. The Force/Moment Load dialog will appear. type a value of 100000 in the Y field below FORCE. Press PREVIEW if
the arrows point into the bar rather than out type -100000 instead. Click
OK in the Force/Moment Load dialog to finish.

Figure 11 : Load Direction

Defining Materials
Figure 9 : Force/Moment dialog
The final definition for this analysis is to determine the material for the bar.
Make sure the References option is set to SURFACE(S) then click on
below. Pick the OTHER end of the bar (spin the view with the middle Choose PROPERTIES > MATERIALS and the MATERIALS dialog
mouse button if you need to) then OK in the small SELECT dialog below will appear. Scroll down the MATERIALS IN LIBRARY to find STEEL and
the constraint dialog. double click on it to transfer it to this model. If you choose EDIT you will
see the material parameters defined for steel the most important ones
are Youngs Modulus and Poissons ratio. Press ASSIGN > PART and
click on the bar and OK to assign the material. CLOSE the material dialog.

Figure 10 : Load Surface

Figure 12 : Materials Dialog

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 7
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
Running an Analysis
Thats it you are ready to run an analysis. Choose ANALYSIS >
MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES and the dialog in Figure 13
appears. From this dialog choose FILE > NEW STATIC and type the name
BAR. Notice the METHOD is single pass adaptive. This method is used for
quick checks to ensure everything is defined correctly and to get rough
results quickly. For more accurate results you would change this to multi
pass adaptive. Leave it as it is for now and OK. Choose the icon to run
this analysis choosing yes for error detection. Press to watch the
report of the analysis as it runs. After a few seconds (longer on a slower
machine!) the report should state RUN COMPLETED. Close the REPORT
dialog and the ANALYSES dialog. Figure 14 : Results Definition
The resultant plot shows the stress distribution over the whole bar where
the colours show the stress ranges and the values are shown on the scale
to the right. The unexpected variation of stress at one end is due to being
local to a constraint which can affect the result. Choose INFO > DYNAMIC
QUERY to get more feedback on actual values. Now as you move the
cursor over the model you will get the actual value at the cursor reported in
the dialog box. You will see that the majority of the model is at about 3.18
N/mm2 (notice the units are reported at the top left of main window). Is this
value correct? For tension stress is calculated by load/area. The cross-
2 2
sectional area of this bar is x20 /4 or 314mm . The load we applied was
2
100000N so the stress should be 100000/314 or 318 N/mm . Spot on -
even though this was only a quick single pass adaptive check!

What else can we show? Choose EDIT > RESULT WINDOW to bring
Figure 13 : Analyses and Design Studies Dialog back the dialog in Figure 14. Below QUANTITY change STRESS to
DISPLACEMENT then OK AND SHOW. Again a coloured plot appears
Seeing the Results with the colours relating to the amount of displacement. One end is blue
with a displacement of 0 because it was constrained. The other end has
Results are handled in a separate though integrated module of Pro stretched as the load is applied so this is shown in red with a displacement
Engineer. Choose ANALYSIS > RESULTS (Note : this icon was value of 0.00158mm.
available in the Analyses dialog as well). The main graphics window will go We can combine the display of displacement with stress in a very
blank and the menus and icons will all change. Choose INSERT >
RESULT WINDOW or the icon. In the RESULT WINDOW interesting and informative way. Choose EDIT > RESULT WINDOW
to bring back the dialog in Figure 14. Below QUANTITY change
DEFINITION dialog that appears press and click (not double click) on DISPLACEMENT back to STRESS then on the DISPLAY OPTIONS tab
the folder which is the same name as the analysis that is BAR. Make sure tick DEFORMED and ANIMATE. OK AND SHOW should now show the
all the options are the same as in Figure 14 then click OK AND SHOW. original stress plot on a model that is stretching as the load is applied. You

By D Cheshire Page 5 of 7
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
can control the animation with the icons at the top of the window the percent convergence parameter and increase the maximum
polynomial order. Of course you would have to re run the analysis if you
. Close the results window with FILE >
EXIT RESULTS then NO. change these parameters.

Additional Analysis Bending Additional Analysis Torsion

To apply a torsional load we will need to create a cylindrical coordinate
Lets try a different analysis. We will apply a bending moment to the bar
system. Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > COORD SYSTEM. In the
rather than a tensile load. Pick the tensile load by clicking on the yellow
arrows in the main graphics window (they turn red) then choose EDIT > COORDINATE SYSTEM dialog change the TYPE of the coordinate
DEFINITION. You should see the Force/Moment Load dialog (as in Figure system to CYLINDRICAL then pick the RIGHT and FRONT datums and
9). Change the load value to 0 in the Y direction and to 1000 in the Z then the end of the bar IN THAT ORDER you should get the icon
displayed as shown in Figure 16.
direction. Check the load direction is as shown in Figure 15.

Figure 15 : Bending Moment

Re run the analysis and view the results. Note the value of the maximum
stress. What should this value be? Figure 16 : Cylindrical Coordinate System
Bending Stress = My/I Pick the bending load by clicking on the yellow arrows in the main graphics
Second Moment of Area (I) for a circular beam = d4/64 window (they turn red) then choose EDIT > DEFINITION. You should see
the Force/Moment Load dialog (as in Figure 9). Click on below
= 204/64
COORDINATE SYSTEM then pick the coordinate system you just created
4
= 7854mm and OK. The load directions will change from X, Y and Z to R, Theta and
Z. Next click on ADVANCED and change the DISTRIBUTION to TOTAL
Bending Stress = 1000*100*10/7854
LOAD AT POINT and click on below DISTRIBUTION then pick a point
= 127N/mm2 on the circular edge of the end of the bar (since we will apply a moment
Do your results compare? You may find they are close but not exact. The force the location of this point is not critical but it must not be on the Z axis
analysis you performed was a quick single pass adaptive analysis. Just by of the coordinate system). Enter a value of 100000 for Z in the MOMENT
looking at the results you will see that the maximum value does not occur column and 0 in all the other FORCE fields. Preview the load direction is
at the end of the bar where it should. If you were to change to a multi pass as shown in Figure 17.
adaptive analysis (by choosing EDIT > ANALYSIS/STUDY in the dialog in
Figure 13) you should see improved results especially if you decrease

By D Cheshire Page 6 of 7
 Introduction To Finite Element Analysis
From Blevins'"Formulas for Natural Frequency and Mode Shape", the
natural frequency of a clamped-free beam is:
2 2
F=( (EI/M)) /(2 L )
where: = 1.875 for first mode
L= length of cantilever (m)
E= modulus of elasticity (N/m2)
4
I= area moment of inertia (m )
m= mass per unit length of beam (kg/m)
Figure 17 : Torsional Moment Which calculates the first natural frequency as 1420 Hz.
Re-run the analysis and view the results for maximum shear stress. Note
the value of the maximum stress. What should this value be (Torsional Review
Stress = Tr/J)?
So what should you have learnt?

Additional Analysis Natural Frequency How to start analysis.

How to define loads, constraints and materials.
Another analysis type that can be undertaken by finite element analysis is How to run an analysis.
to determine the natural frequency of vibration. This type of analysis does How to show results of an analysis.
not require any loads to be applied (if any are applied they will be ignored).
You do have to create a new analysis to perform this type of analysis. Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
Choose ANALYSIS > MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES and the dialog perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
in Figure 13 appears. In this dialog choose FILE > NEW MODAL and type
a name. Having created the analysis, choose the icon like before. The Where Next?
results for this analysis show the vibrations which will occur at different Here is a more complicated model of a steel bracket which you can
frequencies. Choose ANALYSIS > RESULTS then INSERT > download from http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs under the
RESULT WINDOW. Note that Mode 1 is ticked so in the DISPLAY tab pick bracket link. Try applying a 10000N vertical load to the circular hole and
tick DEFORMED then OK and SHOW. Repeat this, creating four different constraining the back surface as though it were glued to a wall.
results windows, one for each of the four modes of vibration calculated.
The first two are very similar vibrating in the vertical and horizontal planes.
The third is a torsional vibration and the fourth is a second order vibration.

Figure 18 : Modal Frequency Analysis

Figure 19 : FEA Analysis Exercise

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 7
 Thermal Finite Element Analysis
Structure Static loading of parts to calculate stresses. Also
It is anticipated that before starting this tutorial that you have completed
calculates vibrations.
the tutorial Introduction to Finite Element Analysis. You should therefore
be familiar with the process of defining constraints, loads, materials and Thermal Applying thermal gradients to calculate heat
running analyses. If you are familiar with these techniques then the distribution.
transition to performing thermal analyses will be straight forward as there
is a direct correlation between stress and thermal analysis. This tutorial covers the structural analysis only. Make sure the MODE
option is set to THERMAL and click OK.
In a stress analysis loads (N) are applied to the model in thermal
analysis the equivalent is a thermal load measured in Watts. In a stress Defining Thermal Loads
analysis boundary conditions are applied (known as constraints) which
restrict the movement of the model in thermal analysis the equivalent The first step is to define the thermal loads on this saucepan. Thermal
boundary constraints are either temperature (C) or convection coefficient loads are heat sources applied to the model. In this case the heat source
is the gas flame or an electric element which applies heat to the base of
the pan. Choose INSERT > HEAT LOAD then pick SURFACE from the
A sample model of a saucepan is provided for you to work with in this
tutorial. There is a link to it next to this tutorial at side menu or choose the icon. Select the base of the saucepan as the
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs/tutorials.htm and it is called heat source and fill in the name as HeatSource and enter a heat load
saucepan.prt. This part should be downloaded to your working directory value Q of 3500000mW as shown in Figure 1.
before starting the tutorial.

Starting a Thermal Analysis

You are now ready to start the analysis process. We will be investigating a
relatively simple problem. If the saucepan is stood on the hot cooker for a
long period of time how hot will the handle get will it be too hot to hold?
We are not interested in the heating up period just the steady state
conditions after which the saucepan will not get any hotter.
ProEngineer has two ways of running analyses. You can run the
ProMechanica software completely independently or you can run it in
integrated mode from within ProEngineer this has some small limitations
but is much more streamlined. We will use integrated mode. Choose
APPLICATIONS > MECHANICA now to take your model into analysis.
Click OK on the box notifying you of the units of your model.
Figure 1 : Thermal Load
The MODEL TYPE dialog should appear. If the FEM Mode option is ticked
you are running on a machine that does not have a licence for
Defining Boundary Conditions
ProMechanica. You will not be able to continue with this tutorial.
For this analysis the boundary conditions occur where the heat dissipates
ProMechanica can undertake different types of analysis. These are
from the saucepan into the ambient air by means of convection. Choose
Motion Analysis of mechanisms and assemblies. Only available INSERT > CONVECTION CONDITION then pick SURFACE from the side
when in an assembly file.
menu or choose the icon. Select all the surfaces of the saucepan
except the base (hold CTRL key whilst picking) and fill in the name as

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 4
 Thermal Finite Element Analysis
Ambient and enter a convection coefficient of 0.03 and a Bulk Running an Analysis
Temperature (the temperature of the ambient air) as shown in Figure 2.
Thats it you are ready to run an analysis. Choose ANALYSIS >
MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES and the dialog in Figure 4
appears. From this dialog choose FILE > NEW STEADY STATE
THERMAL and type the name SAUCEPAN. Notice the METHOD is single
pass adaptive. This method is used for quick checks to ensure everything
is defined correctly and to get rough results quickly. For more accurate
results you would change this to multi pass adaptive. Leave it as it is for
now and OK. Choose the icon to run this analysis choosing yes for
error detection. Press to watch the report of the analysis as it runs.
After a few seconds (longer on a slower machine!) the report should state
RUN COMPLETED. Close the REPORT dialog and the ANALYSES
dialog.

Figure 2 : Ambient Air Boundary Conditions

Defining Materials
The final definition for this analysis is to determine the material for the
saucepan. Choose PROPERTIES > MATERIALS and the
MATERIALS dialog will appear. Scroll down the MATERIALS IN LIBRARY
to find AL2014 and double click on it to transfer it to this model. If you
choose EDIT you will see the material parameters defined for aluminium
the most important ones are Specific Heat Capacity and Thermal
Conductivity. Press ASSIGN > PART and click on the saucepan and OK to
assign the material. CLOSE the material dialog. Figure 4 : Analyses and Design Studies Dialog

Seeing the Results

Results are handled in a separate though integrated module of Pro
Engineer. Choose ANALYSIS > RESULTS (Note : this icon was
available in the Analyses dialog as well). The main graphics window will go
blank and the menus and icons will all change. Choose INSERT >
RESULT WINDOW or the icon. In the RESULT WINDOW

DEFINITION dialog that appears press and click (not double click) on
the folder which is the same name as the analysis that is SAUCEPAN.
Figure 3 : Materials Dialog

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 4
 Thermal Finite Element Analysis
Make sure all the options are the same as in Figure 5 then click OK AND The inside surface of the aluminium saucepan is coated in a non-
SHOW. stick material which reduces the convection coefficient to 0.02.
What is the effect on the handle temperature? (Hint: You will need
to define a second CONVECTION CONDITION for these surfaces
with a different h value. Make sure you remove these surfaces
from the original convection condition.

Combining Analyses
One of the consequences of heating things up is that they expand. This
expansion is directly related to the temperature rise and can be calculated
using the coefficient of expansion for that material. ProMechanica knows
about this to so it can calculate the expansion for you. This is done using a
structure analysis. Here is how but you should have covered structural
Figure 5 : Results Definition analyses in the Introduction to Mechanica tutorial so the instructions will
The resultant plot shows the temperature distribution over the saucepan be brief.
where the colours show the temperature ranges and the values are shown From the Mechanica modeling window change to structural analysis by
on the scale to the right. Choose INFO > DYNAMIC QUERY to get more choosing EDIT > MECHANICA MODEL TYPE. Like all structural analyses
feedback on actual values. Now as you move the cursor over the model the model must be constrained. Lets assume the cook has picked up this
you will get the actual value at the cursor reported in the dialog box. You saucepan (using an oven glove if necessary!) so to (roughly) simulate this
will see that the end of the handle is at around 40-50C. Is this too hot to INSERT > DISPLACEMENT constraint to the SURFACE at the very end of
hold? the handle. Fix movement in all directions.

Additional Analysis
You have now learnt the basics of thermal analysis. By returning to the
modelling window and changing certain parameters you could answer
various questions related to this design. Try to answer the following
questions now
What is the effect on the handle temperature if the material is
changed to STEEL? (Hint : PROPERTIES > MATERIALS )
To accommodate the change to steel the main part of the
saucepan must be increased in thickness to 4mm thick. What is
Figure 6 : Displacement Constraint
the effect on the handle temperature? (Hint: You will need to
return to APPLICATION STANDARD and EDIT the first revolve The second thing required for a structural analysis is a load. In this case
feature to change its thickness) the load is due to the expansion caused by the temperatures already
calculated in the Saucepan thermal analysis. These can be applied using
How high can the heat load be increased before an aluminium INSERT > TEMPERATURE LOAD > MEC/TThe Design Study and
saucepan would melt at 600C? (Hint: Locate HeatSource in the Analysis should already be set to Saucepan in the MECT Temperature
Model Tree window and EDIT DEFINTION. Increase Q value and
analyse again. Repeat until max temperature exceeds 600C)

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 4
 Thermal Finite Element Analysis
dialog. This means that the temperatures previously calculated will be In this plot the colours denote the internal stresses due to expansion and
applied over the whole model causing differential amounts of expansion. the shape is the exaggerated shape due to expansion. (Note temperature
loads can be combined with any other structural load so you could for
The final thing required for a structural analysis is a material but you have
example add a gravity load to the saucepan and see the stresses due to
already assigned that as part of the thermal analysis so there is no need to
gravity as well though they would be small compared to thermal
do that here.
expansion.)
Choose ANALYSIS > MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES . From this
dialog choose FILE > NEW STATIC and type the name EXPANSION and
Review
OK. Choose the icon to run this analysis choosing yes for error So what should you have learnt?
detection. If you get an error message about model having changed since How to start analysis.
thermal analysis was run simply choose EDIT > MECHANICA MODEL How to define thermal loads, boundary conditions and materials.
TYPE to change to thermal mode run the analysis again return to
How to run an analysis.
structure mode and run this analysis). Press to watch the report of the How to show results of a thermal analysis.
analysis as it runs. After a few seconds (longer on a slower machine!) the How to use temperature loads in structural analyses.
report should state RUN COMPLETED. Close the REPORT dialog and the
ANALYSES dialog. Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.
To see the results choose ANALYSIS > RESULTS (Note : this icon
was available in the Analyses dialog as well). The main graphics window
will go blank and the menus and icons will all change. Choose INSERT >
RESULT WINDOW or the icon. In the RESULT WINDOW

DEFINITION dialog that appears press and click (not double click) on
the folder which is the same name as the analysis that is EXPANSION.
Make sure all the options are the same as in Figure 7 and also that
DEFORMED is ticked in the Display Options tab then click OK AND
SHOW.

Figure 7 : Expansion Results Definition

By D Cheshire Page 4 of 4
 Shell Modeling and Analysis
You have probably already realised that the initial model is very important Shell Modelling
and can affect both the result accuracy and the time taken to perform the
analysis. For example analysis is often undertaken on models where the
majority of radii and other small features which have no significance on the
results have been removed of suppressed this can reduce analysis time
tremendously. Of course it is down to skill of the operator to decide which
features can be suppressed without affecting the results.
A particular area where correct modelling can improve analysis speed is in
parts which have lots of thin walls of constant thickness. Examples of
these include sheet metal parts (simple brackets or complex car bodies)
and even moulded parts (since good moulding practice requires constant
wall thicknesses wherever possible). The modelling technique used for
these parts is called shell modelling. Here the designer will model the
centreline of a feature then assign a thickness to the feature. Pro Engineer Figure 1 : The Chair Base
combines the information to generate a solid model which looks identical
to one made from normal modelling techniques. When analysing the The part we are going to analyses is the injection moulded base to a
model the shell information can be used to reduce the analysis time swivel chair as shown in Figure 1. The first thing you should notice about
experience has shown that this can be by as much as 100 times in such a part is that it has 5 identical legs. This should immediately show
extreme cases. you that you can save both modelling and analysis time by only looking at
one of the five legs. Even more time can be saved if you recognise that
Here is an example of the techniques involved. The tutorial uses a realistic each leg has a plane of symmetry along its length (see Figure 2) so even
part so the process is quite complex. Pay careful attention as you read more modelling and analysis time can be saved.
especially if you have not completed all of the modelling exercises in this
series.
Even if you dont intend to use shell modelling the tutorial is worth
completing as it introduces other techniques related to analysis. If you find
the modelling instructions difficult to follow then have you completed the
modelling tutorials? If you havent you might find it helpful to do so.

Figure 2 : The Leg Half Model

Here is how to model the leg. Create a new part using FILE > NEW with a
name of chair_leg. Choose the mmns_part_solid template.

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 7
 Shell Modeling and Analysis
Next create an extrusion (INSERT > EXTRUDE). From the dashboard
choose the SKETCH icon then pick the datum plane TOP by clicking on it
in the graphics window or in the browser then click on the SKETCH button.

Draw the sketch in Figure 3. Exit sketcher and type in the extrusion

distance of 30. Finish the feature with .

Figure 5 : A Round
Add a 13mm round (INSERT > ROUND) to the edge around the top of the
Figure 3 : First Feature Sketch leg it should automatically propagate all around as the edges are all
tangent.
Next create an revolution (INSERT > REVOLVE). From the dashboard
choose the SKETCH icon then pick the datum plane FRONT by clicking on
it in the graphics window or in the browser then click on the SKETCH
button.
Draw the sketch in Figure 4 notice that the top line is inline with the top
of the first feature. Draw a centreline on top of the RIGHT datumFigure 3.
Exit sketcher and type in the revolve angle of 36. Finish the feature

with .

Figure 6 : A Second Round

The steps so far should be familiar to you there is nothing new. The next
step should also be known to you shelling. Create a shell feature to
hollow out the leg using INSERT > SHELL. Pick the two surfaces shown in
red in Figure 7a. Choose a shell thickness of 4. Before you finish this
feature stop and think. The surface shown in Figure 7b is a web between
two legs which should be 4 thick but only half of it is in this section of the
Figure 4 : Second Feature Sketch model so it should be 2 thick here. This can be achieved in the shell
Add a 16mm round (INSERT > ROUND) to the edge between the two command. Click on the references tab then click to activate the Non-
features. default thickness pane you now can pick surfaces on the model which will
have a different thickness to the rest of the model. Click the surface shown
in Figure 7b and change the thickness for this surface to 2.

By D Cheshire Page 2 of 7
 Shell Modeling and Analysis
Now click on the thicken sketch button . This button takes the single
line sketch you have drawn and adds material to the thickness typed in the
box next to the button 4. Also the second button decides which side
of the sketch to add material click it till the material is outside of the arc.

Finish the feature with .

Figure 9 : Thin Protrusion

Analysing Shell Models

Thats enough modelling for now more later. We will perform an analysis.
Choose APPLICATION > MECHANICA now to take your model into
analysis. Click OK on the box notifying you of the units of your model.
Figure 7 : Creating the Shell Make sure the MODE option is set to STRUCTURE and click OK.
Now for something new in extrusions. Create a new extrusion INSERT > The first step is to define some simplistic constraints. In this case the hole
EXTRUSION. From the dashboard choose the SKETCH icon then pick the where the central pillar of the stanchion fits needs to be fixed. Choose
datum plane TOP by clicking on it in the graphics window or in the browser
INSERT > DISPLACEMENT CONSTRAINT (or you could just pick the
then click on the SKETCH button. Draw the sketch in Figure 9 (a simple
icon). The constraint dialog will appear. Click on below Surface(s) then
semicircle) and exit sketcher . On the dashboard (Figure 8) choose the
pick the surface in this model which is part of the hole (Figure 10) then OK
up to next surface option and use the button to make sure the to return to the constraint dialog and OK to leave this surface fully
extrusion is going the correct direction towards the inside of the leg. constrained.

Figure 8 : The Dashboard

By D Cheshire Page 3 of 7
 Shell Modeling and Analysis
click on it to transfer it to this model. Press ASSIGN > PART and click on
the chair leg and OK to assign the material. CLOSE the material dialog.
Thats it you are ready to run an analysis. Choose ANALYSIS >
MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES . From this dialog choose FILE >
NEW STATIC and type the name leg and OK. Choose the icon to run
this analysis choosing yes for error detection. Press to watch the
report of the analysis as it runs. Note how many elements are used in this
analysis and the elapsed time to complete the analysis. Close the
REPORT dialog and the ANALYSES dialog.
The analysis should complete correctly and you could review these results
if you wanted. This has performed a normal analysis it has not used any
Figure 10 : Constraint Surface information about shells at all. So how do we use shell information? The
easiest way to do this is to use the automated INSERT > MIDSURFACES
Definition of loads is similar to constraints. Choose INSERT >
then choose AUTO DETECT. This takes any shelled surfaces or thickened
FORCE/MOMENT LOAD or pick the icon to apply a load over a protrusions and automatically generates thin shells from them. After this
surface. Click on below Surface(s) then pick the surface in Figure 11 command you can see the shells by choosing COMPRESS > SHELLS
then OK to return to the Force/Moment dialog. Type a value of 300 in the ONLY > SHOWCOMPRESS.
correct field for a vertical load on the leg (probably the Y direction). This
will be half the total load applied to a single leg as we are only modelling
half the leg. Press PREVIEW to check the arrows point in the correct
direction. Click OK in the Force/Moment dialog to finish.

Figure 12 : Shell Display

Try running the analysis again in the Status dialog you should notice it
now uses Shell elements (Figure 13) and the time taken for the analysis
Figure 11 : Loaded Surface will be much shorter. A look at the results will show you the display as
shells too.
Choose PROPERTIES > MATERIALS and the MATERIALS dialog
will appear. Scroll down the materials library to Find NYLON and double

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 Shell Modeling and Analysis
type of constraint could be used Since we are only analysing half a leg we
cannot use this automated method we will have to replicate this using
displacement constraints.
This time the constraint is not along the normal X, Y or Z axes. We need to
make a new definition for the direction of X, Y and Z. This is done in Pro
Engineer with a coordinate system. We need to create one now. Choose
INSERT > MODEL DATUM > COORDINATE SYSTEM. The coordinate
system dialog is displayed. This is an intelligent dialog it will try and
make sense of what you select. Click on the 3 surfaces/datums now in the
order shown in Figure 15. Notice the new yellow coordinate system icon
the X direction is at right angles to the FIRST surface you picked and this
Figure 13 : Analysis Using Shells is the direction which we will constrain. In the properties tab type the name
ANGLED. Click OK to close the dialog and ANGLED should appear in the
There is a problem with the analysis! Look carefully at the leg and you will model tree under Simulation Features.
see that as it is loaded it twists. This wouldnt happen in real life because
we would have a full leg not just half. We can correctly simulate the other
half of the leg without having to model it by correct use of constraints.
Choose INSERT > SYMETRY CONSTRAINT and the symmetry
constraint dialog will appear. Pick the edges in Figure 14 then OK to return Pick 2
to the constraint dialog and OK again to finish.
NOTE: edges are selected rather than the central surface because the
surface disappears when the model is collapsed into shells.

Pick 3

Pick 1

Figure 15 : Defining the Coordinate System

We will now add another constraint using this coordinate system. Choose
INSERT > DISPLACEMENT CONSTRAINT . The constraint dialog will
appear. Click on below Surface(s) then pick the surface highlighted in
red in Figure 16 then OK to return to the constraint dialog. To use another
Figure 14 : Edge Constraints coordinate system click on below Coordinate System then pick the
ANGLED coordinate system. This constraint needs to stop movement
There is another problem with the analysis! There is another symmetry on
across the symmetry plane (X) whilst allowing free movement in the plane
the surface in Figure 16.
(Y&Z). Set the constraints as shown in Figure 16b for both Translation and
NOTE:- Cyclic Symmetry constraints (as these are called) can be defined Rotation. (Hint For symmetry rotation and translation constraints are
using the symmetry constraint type. If we were analysing a whole leg this opposite).

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 Shell Modeling and Analysis
have drawn and adds material to the thickness typed in the box next to the
button 4. Also the second button decides which side of the sketch to
add material click it till the material is on the correct side. Finish the

feature with .

Figure 16 : Second Symmetry Constraints

Reanalyse the part and the stress and deflection patterns should
accurately mimic a real leg.

Figure 17 : The Analysis

If you look at the deflection at the end of the leg it is too high. Normally
such a structure would have strengthening ribs to improve the strength.
Here is how to add such ribs they are all added as thickened protrusions.
Create a new extrusion INSERT > EXTRUSION. From the dashboard
choose the SKETCH icon then pick the datum plane TOP by clicking on it
in the graphics window or in the browser then click on the SKETCH button.
Draw the appropriate sketch for this feature (see the comic strip in

Figure 18) and exit sketcher . On the dashboard choose the up to next
surface option and use the button to make sure the extrusion is going
the correct direction towards the inside of the leg. Now click on the
thicken sketch button . This button takes the single line sketch you

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 Shell Modeling and Analysis

Figure 18 : Thin Protrusions

Perform an analysis on the strengthened model to determine the
improvement in strength and stiffness of the leg.

Review
So what should you have learnt?
How to create variable thickness shells.
How to create thin extrusions.
How to create symmetry constraints.
How to use coordinate systems in analysis.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

By D Cheshire Page 7 of 7
 Joint Analysis
pick the back surface of the bracket then OK to return to the constraint
This tutorial looks at different ways of analysing bolted joints within Pro
Mechanica. This is an important technique as correct analysis may have dialog. You have picked one surface to constrain and the &
significant effects on the results for the whole part being analysed. The symbols show what movements are restricted they all are so this surface
tutorial uses a simple bracket which can be downloaded from is fully constrained. Click OK to finish.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/~entdgc/WildfireDocs/tutorials.htm under the
bracket link.

Bonded Analysis
As a base point for our comparison of different methods of simulating
joints we will analyse the bracket as though it was bonded (glued) to the
wall (if you did the Introduction to Mechanica tutorial you should already
have done this as a further exercise). Even this is a simplification and if
you wanted to correctly analyse a bonded joint you would approach it
differently to account for bond flexibility and other factors.
You are now ready to start the analysis process so load the part into Pro Figure 2 : Constraint Surface
Engineer.
Next define the load on the bracket. Choose INSERT > FORCE/MOMENT
LOAD or pick the icon to apply a load over a surface. Click on
below Surface(s) in the Force/Moment dialog then pick the surface
highlighted in Figure 3 then OK to return to the Force/Moment dialog. Type
a value of -10000 in the Y field below Force. Press PREVIEW the arrows
should point the same way as in Figure 3. Click OK in the Force/Moment
dialog to finish.

Figure 1 : The Bracket for Analysis

Choose APPLICATION > MECHANICA now to take your model into
analysis. Click OK on the box notifying you of the units of your model.
From the MODEL TYPE dialog choose STRUCTURE and OK.
Figure 3 : Load Surface
As always the first step for this model is to define the constraints. We are
going to roughly simulate the bracket being bonded to a wall so the back The final definition for this analysis is the material. Choose PROPERTIES
face needs to be fixed. INSERT > DISPLACEMENT (or you could just pick > MATERIALS and the MATERIALS dialog will appear. Scroll down
the icon). Click on below Surface(s) in the constraint dialog then the materials library in the Materials dialog to Find STEEL and double click

By D Cheshire Page 1 of 6
 Joint Analysis
on it to transfer it to this model. Press ASSIGN > PART and click on the should see a new toolbar appear like the one in Figure 5. This is called the
bracket and OK to assign the material. CLOSE the material dialog. dashboard and contains all of the options for the type of feature you are
creating.
Thats it you are ready to run an analysis. Choose ANALYSIS >
MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES and in the dialog that appears
choose FILE > NEW STATIC and type the name BONDED and press OK.
Choose the icon to run this analysis choosing yes for error detection.
Figure 5 : The Extrude Dashboard
Press to watch the report of the analysis as it runs. After a few
seconds (longer on a slower machine!) the report should state RUN To start creating this feature choose PLACEMENT > DEFINE in the
COMPLETED. Close the REPORT dialog and the ANALYSES dialog. dashboard and the Section dialog appears. Notice that this dialog has
many fields but the sketch plane option is highlighted in pale yellow
After the analysis completes choose ANALYSIS > RESULTS menu. awaiting your input. The sketch plane is a flat surface onto which you will
The main graphics window will go blank and the menus and icons will all draw your shape. Choose the back surface of the bracket (the one you
change. Choose INSERT > RESULT WINDOW or the icon. In the constrained in Figure 2) by clicking on it in the graphics window. The other
fields in the Shape dialog are filled in automatically so you dont need to
RESULT WINDOW DEFINITION dialog that appears press and click worry about them at the moment just click on the SKETCH button.
(not double click) on the folder which is the same name as the analysis
The graphics screen will change to a black background looking directly on
that is BONDED. Make sure all the options are the same as in Figure 4
to the sketch plane, and the drawing icons described will appear. You can
then click OK AND SHOW.
CLOSE the References dialog.
You are now ready to use sketcher. Choose SKETCH > CIRCLE >
CONCENTRIC and draw the circles with two clicks the first click on the
radius in the corner of the bracket, the second click to determine the size
as shown in Figure 6 press the middle mouse to finish drawing each
circle. You should be able to get all four circles to lock on to the same size
and showing an R1 symbol.

Figure 4 : Results Definition

Thats the first analysis complete. Just note the stress distribution in the
bracket for now and then try the next method. Choose FILE > EXIT
RESULTS before continuing.

Creating the Holes

Figure 6 : Sketch for Four Holes
Now lets try to analyse a bolted joint for which we need some holes!
Modelling is done outside of Pro Mechanica so choose APPLICATION > Your window should now look like Figure 6 but the diameter of the circle
STANDARD. Next choose INSERT > EXTRUDE from the menu. You will be different. To set the size of the circle to the correct value, choose

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 Joint Analysis
The new constraints have been defined. They are stored in a separate set
the selection tool and double click on the dimension and type in the
from the original constraint. You are ready to run an analysis. Choose
required value of 12. To end sketching choose and click OK in the
ANALYSIS > MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES and in the dialog
Section dialog. To complete this first feature at the dashboard choose the
choose EDIT > COPY and press OK. You now have two analyses which
thru all option and to remove (rather than add) material if the are currently identical except for their name. Choose EDIT >
ANALYSIS/STUDY to edit the copy. Change the name of the analysis to
extrusion is going in the wrong direction press (see Figure 6b). Click EDGES. Below CONSTRAINTS choose CONSTRAINTSET2 so that the
the green tick to finish. You should have four bolt holes. analysis will use only the edge constraints just defined then click OK.
Choose the icon to run this new analysis choosing yes for error
Edge Constraint
detection. Press to watch the report of the analysis as it runs. After a
Now we have to modify the analysis to take account of these holes. The few seconds (longer on a slower machine!) the report should state RUN
load and material will stay the same but the constraints will alter. COMPLETED. Close the REPORT dialog and the ANALYSES dialog.
Choose APPLICATION > MECHANICA now to take your model back into After the analysis completes choose ANALYSIS > RESULTS menu.
analysis. From the MODEL TYPE dialog choose STRUCTURE and OK. The main graphics window will go blank and the menus and icons will all
We are going to simulate a bolted joint by just holding the edges of the change. Choose INSERT > RESULT WINDOW or the icon. In the
holes in position. We could delete the surface constraint we applied earlier
and a new one but we can learn another technique. Choose INSERT > RESULT WINDOW DEFINITION dialog that appears press and click
(not double click) on the folder which is the same name as the analysis
DISPLACEMENT (or you could just pick the icon). On the dialog there that is BONDED. Make sure all the options are the same as in Figure 8
is a NEW button next to the MEMBER OF SET FIELD. Click on this button then click OK AND SHOW.
to create a new set of constraints by default called CONSTRAINTSET2.
Click OK to return to the CONSTRAINT dialog. Below the word
REFERENCES it will say SURFACE(S) change this to
EDGES(S)/CURVE(S) then click on below then pick the back edges of
the holes in the bracket holding the CTRL key. When you have picked all 8
edges click OK to return to the constraint dialog. Click OK to finish defining
this constraint.

Figure 8 : Results Definition

The results are very different. There are some very high stress
concentrations around the edges you constrained which are masking the
stresses elsewhere in the bracket. Stress concentrations around
constraints are common but can be ignored as they are not realistic. If you
look at the stress legend it goes from (about) 1.8e-1 to 4.3e2 whereas in
Figure 7 : Constraint Edges the BONDED analysis it went from (about) 1.07e-2 to 2.2e1. To make an

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 Joint Analysis
accurate comparison we can show the two analyses side by side with the Choose ANALYSIS > MECHANICA ANALYSES/STUDIES and EDIT
same legend values. >COPY a new analysis called SURFACES which uses
CONSTRAINTSET3. Run the analysis and show the results of the three
Choose INSERT > RESULT WINDOW or the icon. In the RESULTS analyses side by side with the same legend values.
WINDOW DEFINITION dialog that appears press and click (not
double click) on the folder for the BONDED analysis then click OK AND
SHOW. You will see the two analyses together. Click on each window in
turn then choose FORMAT > LEGEND. Type 2 as the minimum value and
20 as the maximum value so that you can get a fair comparison.

Figure 11 : Comparison 3

Accurate Analysis of Bolted Joints

In many situations where the area around the bolt is not critical the surface
Figure 9 : Comparison 2 constraint technique would be acceptable (ignoring the stress
Choose FILE > EXIT RESULTS before continuing. concentrations around the holes). For greater accuracy a more complex
technique is required.
Surface Constraint To understand the technique it first important to understand how a bolted
joint works. It may seem straight forward but it is not! A good source of
We are going to improve the simulation of a bolted joint by holding the
research for this is http://www.boltscience.com/ where there is a tutorial on
surfaces of the holes in position. Follow the procedure for defining a new
bolted joints.
constraint as you did with the edge constraints. This time create a surface
constraint (INSERT > DISPLACEMENT) and create a new constraint set We will need to define the area where the washer contacts the face of the
(this will be CONSTRAINTSET3). Pick the internal surfaces of the holes. bracket. Currently this is a single surface so we need to split it into what
are called regions. This is done in Pro Mechanica using INSERT >
VOLUME REGION > CREATE > EXTRUDE > DONE (we use volume
region rather than surface region as we can split the front and back
surfaces in one command). Pick the front face of the bracket as the sketch
plane then OKAY > DEFAULT to enter sketcher. Draw 4 equal diameter
circles concentric to the four holes. After exiting sketcher choose THRU
ALL > DONE then OK. What this has done is created an imaginary
extrusion. Where this extrusion passes through the bracket it has split the
surfaces. This will only be visible if you are in a non shaded display.

Figure 10 : Constraint Surfaces

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 Joint Analysis
STEEL. Press the MORE button next to SECTION. Choose NEW then set
the type to SOLID CIRCLE with a radius of 6 (this represents the size of
the bolt shank). Click all the OK buttons to finish defining this beam.
Repeat it for all four holes (you wont need to define material or section as
they are now the defaults).

Figure 12 : Volume Regions

We will also need to create 8 datum points 1 at each end of the four
holes. Choose INSERT > MODEL DATUM > POINT > POINT. The
DATUM POINT dialog appears. Click on the edge of one of the holes and
a datum point is created where you pick. We want the datum point to be at
the centre of the arc so in the DATUM POINT dialog click on the word ON
and change it to CENTRE then click on NEW POINT. Repeat this for the 8
points. Dont forget to click on new point after each point is defined. Close Figure 14 : Four Beams defined
the dialog with OK.
Now the bolt needs to be connected to the bracket. If the bolt is designed
and fitted correctly it should not move relative to the bracket so we will use
rigid connections. These dont allow any movement. Choose INSERT >
CONNECTION > RIGID CONNECTIONS > CREATE and in the RIGID
CONNECTION dialog click on icon then pick the edges of the volume
region and the adjacent datum point IN THAT ORDER. Click OK then
close the dialog with OK. Repeat for each end of the four holes (8 times).

Figure 13 : Datum Points

That is all of the preliminary geometry defined. Next we will simulate the
bolt with a special type of element known as a beam. This will appear like
a simple line in the analysis but will have all the same properties as the
bolt shank. Choose INSERT > BEAM. In the BEAM DEFINITION dialog
click on below Reference(s) then pick the point at either end of one
hole. Press the MORE button next to MATERIAL to set the material to Figure 15 : Rigid Connection

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 Joint Analysis
Finally, all that is needed is to correctly constrain the model. Create a new Review
DISPLACEMENT CONSTARINT in a new constraint set. Change the
reference type to POINT and pick all four datum points on the back of the So what should you have learnt?
bracket. You should now be able to analyse this model creating a new How to create various types of constraints.
analysis called SPIDER which use the correct constraint set. (It is called a How to define volume regions.
spider connection for historical reasons). How to define rigid connections.
Compare the results of all four analyses. How to compare results of an analysis.
Any problems with these? Then you should go back through the tutorial
perhaps several times until you can complete it without any help.

Figure 16 : Comparison 4

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