ironcad 9 textbook

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SDC PublicationsMission Kansas

IronCAD and Inovateversion 9

by

Jerry Craig

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Fair Use Statement

2

IronCAD version 9

Series 9

Copryright 2007 All rights reserved.

Fair Use Statement

This Textbook in Adobe PDF fomat may be freely distributed for use in IronCAD training.

This textbook may not be sold in any form. Printed copies are available from:

Schroff Publications5424 Martway DriveMission, Kansas 66205

(913) 262-2664

www.schroff.com

Table of Contents

1 Introduction 5

2 TriBall 35

3 2D Drawing 59

4 Geometry 79

5 Animation 95

6 Normal Surfaces 109

7 Inclined Surfaces 125

8 Oblique Surfaces 137

9 Curved Surfaces 149

10 Tools Catalog 171

10 Assemblies 176

11 Detail Drawings 195

11 2D Drawings 196

11 Auxiliary Views 199

11 Sectional Views 201

11 Dimensioning 206

12 Sheet Metal 217

13 Mechanism Mode 233

14 Importing / Exporting 245

Index 249

Table of Contents IronCAD v9 and Inovate

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Table of Contents

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Updates, Corrections and additional files

http://engr-tech.com for timely updates and downloads. Corrections will be posted as soon as

possible. Downloads for problem files will be posted.

Please let us know if you find errors. We appreciate suggestions on textbook content and style.

[email protected]

Additional Textbooks

Freehand sketching skills are important for engineering and technical students. In our Engineering

Graphics courses we introduce new CADD topics using freehand sketching. This allows students to see

the relationships between visualizing with a sketch and modeling the objects on the computer.

Typical class schedules are posted on http://engr-tech.com

Textbooks with formatted sketching problems are availble from http://www.schroff.com"Engineering Graphics Technical Sketching"by Jerry Craig"Engineering Graphics Text and Workbook" by Jerry Craig

Introduction IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

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Introduction

IronCad is used to create computer models of objects for all types of engineering designs. Early CADD(Computer Aided Drawing/Design) software was programmed to emulate the way drawings were madeas two-dimensional shapes on paper. As computer power and speed increased, the ability to representthree-dimensional objects became possible. 3D features were added to existing software resulting inunnecessarily complex commands to create simple shapes. IronCad was written to create 3D solidmodels using clear, concise commands. Much less time is needed to learn to use IronCad. Workingdrawings for production may be created in the IronCAD Drawing Environment.

INOVATE is a modeling-only software. Nearly all the modeling features of IronCAD have beenincorporated into this software. It is intended for use by designers who need to create 2D layouts, 3Dsolid models and assemblies. Producting 2D working drawings is done by opening the INOVATE model files in IronCAD. Many companies and schools provide INOVATE so people can work at home.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Introduction

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From the time of the Industrial Revolution to 1984 drawings were made using drawing boards,T-squares, triangles, protractors, compasses andother mechanical tools. Manual drawing wasexacting and time-consuming. Changing drawingsand keeping drawings up to date was a major task.

Early drawings were created on starched linencloth. Lines were drawn in ink. Plastic coatedpaper and Mylar plastic film are currently used for both manual and computer drawing plots.

In 1984 the first IBM-PC computers madedrawing on a computer screen possible atreasonable cost. With a 4.77 mhz processor andtwo 360k floppy disks it was possible to doprofessional drafting. Early software emulated the drawing methods used on paper - line by line,circle by circle. Drawings were still twodimensional. Screens were black and white andthe mouse was not available.

Rapid computer advancements and softwareimprovements changed engineering andarchitecture. The switch from manual to computer drawing took only five years, far faster than thechange from typewriters to word processors!

Drafting machines were an improvement overdrawing boards and T-squares. The 90 degreescales and a built in protractor increasedproductivity by 30 %.


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Units of Measure

Metric

In the United States there are a number ofmeasurement systems in use. While the restof the world has standardized on the MetricSystem, U.S. Industries have clung to theold English measurements. The oldermeasurements are often much harder to read and calculate with. Slowly, the U.S. ischanging to the world standard.

Millimeters are the preferred unit for mostmetric measurements. At times, centimetersmay be specified. The conversion can beseen, 10 millimeters = 1 centimeter.

Fractional Inch

A carryover from the English system whichis still used by some industries. Reading thescale takes practice. Calculating usingfractional measurements is awful.

Decimal Inch

By dividing an inch into 10 parts (0.10 in.)and 100 parts (0.01 in.) the advantages andease of decimal calculations may be appliedto English measurement. This scale is/waswidely used in the automotive, aircraft andelectronics industries.

Architectural

Still in almost universal use in building andconstruction work. Measuring and calculatingarchitectural units is confusing because of theconversions needed: Feet to inches. Inches to Fractions ..... And back.This is the most difficult system ofmeasurement in use today.


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Drawing Sheets

Manual and computer drawings are placed on standard sheet sizes. Early manualdrawings were created on starched linencloth. Later, plasticised paper and Mylarplastic film were used. Some projects nowuse only computer images or “paperless”drawings.

Title Blocks

Drawings are placed on title blocks toprovide standard information about eachsheet. Items like company name, date,drafter, engineer, tolerances, part name,project name, etc are shown.

Companies will provide standard titleblocks for each project or job.

Inch Size Drawing Sheets

A = 8 ½ x 11B = 11 x 17C = 17 x 22D = 22 x 34E = 34 x 4’, 5’, 6’

Metric Size Drawing Sheets

A4 = 210mm x 297mmA3 = 297mm x 420mmA2 = 420mm x 594mmA1 = 594mm x 841mmA0 = 841mm x 1189mm

Drawing Plotting

Creating drawings from computer designsrequires some type of mechanical printeror X-Y plotter as shown. Older plottersused pens to draw lines on one of the paper sizes listed above.

Ink pens were slow, messy and oftenskipped in the middle of a plot. Plottershad multiple pen carousels which allowedplotting different line thicknesses. Colorpens could also be used.

Laser and Ink Jet plotters have replacedpen plotters. These are faster, much morereliable and allow variable line widths aswell as many thousands of colors.

Drawing Copying

Drawings are plotted on transparent paperor film. Copies are made for use in thefield or the shop. Diazo copies are quickand inexpensive for large sheet sizes.

Diazo process.Hot ammonia gasdevelops the copy image.


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Drawing vs Modeling

Drawing

Early computer software created drawings very much like using a drawing board and t-square. Lines and circles andshapes were drawn to represent the shape of an object.Several views might be needed to represent athree-dimensional object. Changes to the drawing weredone by erasing and re-drawing lines much the same aswould be necessary for a pencil and paper drawing.

Drafters required a number of skills including the abilityto visualize the correct view lines for each directionshown, scale reading and measuring, pencil and inkdrawing and manipulation of the t-square and triangles.

A multiple view drawing ofthe part is shown. Note thelocation and alignment of theviews. This follows the ANSI(American Standard).

Also, notice the use of dashedlines to denote hiddenfeatures.

The drawing has been placedon a title block.

Modeling - IronCAD & Inovate

With the availability of inexpensive, powerful, fastcomputers, companies like IronCAD have re-designedthe process of designing parts and the software interfacehas become much more efficient. Now, parts are createdas mathematical, three-dimensional, solid models. Partsare sculpted on the computer much like creating a claymodel by adding protrusions or cutting holes.

During the design process, changes are constantly beingmade. Using solid models makes updates very fast.

A pictorial view of a part is shown. Thearrows show the view directions.


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Third Angle Projection

The United States and a few other countries prefer to show theviews of a part as shown to theright.

The FRONT view is the keyview.The TOP view is above the frontview.The RIGHT view is to the rightof the front view.The LEFT view is to the left ofthe front view.The BOTTOM view is below the

First Angle Projection

In Europe and most countries ofthe world, the views of the partare shown as seen to the right.

The FRONT view is the keyview.The TOP view is below the frontview.The RIGHT view is to the left ofthe front view.The LEFT view is to the right ofthe front view.The BOTTOM view is above thefront view.

3RD Angle Views 1st Angle Views

Starting a drawing on a standardA, B, C, D, E size sheet willdisplay a 3rd angle viewarrangement.

Starting a drawing on a metricA0, A1, A2, A3, A4 size sheet will display a 1st angle viewarrangement.

Drawing - IronCAD only


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IronCad Features

• Two Environments:Scene (Modeling) - part creationDrawing - detail views of models.

• English or Metric Units• Create parts by re-shaping library

objects.Or, draw special 2D contours andextrude to 3D part.

• Design quickly using approximatesizes then set exact size later.Parametrically design parts.

• View and rotate 3D shaded objects in real time.

• Quickly create sheet metal parts,gears, fasteners, springs, etc.

• Assemble parts.Create new parts in the context of the assembly using features ofexisting parts.

• Animate machines and assemblyprocesses. Make movies.

• Export models and drawings to otherCADD software. Import models and drawings.

• Create models using both PARASOLIDS and ACIS “core” modeling systems.

• Easily create catalogs of commonly usedshapes for greater efficiency.

• Use Layers in drawings for compatibility with older CAD software.

IronCad orInovatePARTMODEL

IronCad Detail (Production) Drawing


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Starting IronCad or Inovate

From the START menu select IronCad or Inovate

The Welcome Screen has options to:

• Start a new Scene (Model).• Create a Drawing from a model.

(IronCAD only).• Open an existing scene

( or drawing - IronCAD only).

Select Create a New Scene.


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Inovate - Startup

Inovate does not prompt for startup screen options. The initial startup screen is a blue gradientbackground. This may be changed for future startups.

Turn Datum Planes On/Off

Click the box shown on theStandard Toolbar.

Change Background Color

__ Right-click the background.

__ Select Backgrounnd fromthe dialog box.

__ Change the backgroundcolor as needed. White is bestfor exporting models forprinting.

Icon to turndatum planes On/Off


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IronCad prompts for the type ofbackground to use to start the newmodel. Selecting New in Inovatebrings up the same screen.

Use White.ics.

Notice that Workspace Englishis the default. You can selectWorkspace Metric if that isneeded.

__ Click Set Selection as DefaultTemplate

The Studio option is used to create room layouts or stage settings.

Main Modeling Screen

Major Features:

ViewIcons

DimensionIcons

Prompt Area below.

Catalogs

Of

Shapes

Pop Down Menus and Standard Tool Bar

Command specific icons.

The major areas of the IronCad screen are shown. Icons may be “greyed out” if the command is notappropriate at a certain time.

Left-click the mouse to select an icon or command. Right-click for more options.


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IronCAD and Inovate screen with white background and Datum Planes turned on.

Coordinate System Display. Pop down the View Menu. Select Coordinate system and other displayoptions.

Right-click on a blank area of the screen for additional settings.


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SAVE, LOAD, HELPPop down menus at the top of the screen provide access to commands which may not have icons.

File commands are used to save currentmodels, load existing models, etc.

It is a good idea to save every 15 - 20 minutes.

Commands with ( … ) after the word will bring up additional dialog boxes.Open... Is shown below


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HELP

IronCad has an extremely useful and thorough HELP menu. Click Help at the top of the screen or typealt H to access by Contents, Index or word Search.

Each Book hassub-references tospecific tasks.

Clicking theIndex tab willallow searchingon a specificword or task.

Search will findwords of phrasesin the help files.


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The Show-Me animation tutorials are very useful in learning a sequence of steps. There are many moreavailable beyond what is shown in this picture.


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Catalogs are located at the right of the screen. They provide a number of common shapes which can beused to create models. Once a shape is selected is dragged using the left mouse key to the scene. Thesize and shape of the object may be changed using the mouse or by keying in exact sizes.

View commands are located atthe upper left side of the screen.

Place the mouse over an iconand a description window (tool tip) will appear.

The lower left corner of the standardtoolbar is a dialog box whichprovides information or next steps.

Catalogs

ViewCommands

Prompt Area


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Placing Objects.

• Select an object from a Catalog. • Hold down the left mouse button and drag the object to the working screen. • Release the mouse button.

Dragging the object to the center of the Datum Planes will place the object at 0,0,0 in space.This is done for compatibility with other CADD software.

IronCAD version 9 now supports incar coordinates for compatability with the automotive industry.


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The handles that appear inIntellishape mode may be used todrag the faces to visually re-shape theobject

• Blue (cyan) Outline entire object = Part Mode.• Yellow Outline = Intellishape Editing Mode.• Green Outline = Surface, Edge or Vertex Editing

Mode.

Click the left mouse button on the background tode-select all modes.

• Click once on the object to select Part Mode.• Click a second time on the object to select

Intellishape Edit Mode.• Click a third time on the object to select

Surface-Edge-Vertex Edit Mode.

Intellishape (yellow) edit mode is shown at the right.This mode is used to change the shape of the object.

Part Modes - editing levels

Moving near a handle will display the spacedirection for the handle:

L = Length = X-axisW = Width = Y-axisH = Height = Z-axis

Right-click in any mode for a specific menu ofcommands that apply to that mode or activity.

Left-click and hold the mouse key todrag to a new size. The distance fromthe opposite face is shown.

Right-click a handle for a list of options and settings. Snap settings allow dragging in increments.


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Using the Mouse - Left and Right Keys - Center Key = Cancel

IronCad accesses manycommands using mouse-keycombinations.

• Left-click to select items.• Right click for menus or

options.

Right-click on the screen andoptions appear to split the screenplus other functions.

Right-click at Part Level andpart related options appear.

Right-click at Intellishape level and editing options appear.

Roll wheelto Zoom.

Press downon wheelto click.

Right-click atFace level and face commandsare available.

Right-click at Edge or Cornerlevel and special commandsappear.


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View (Camera) Commands

IronCad uses the analogy of a camera for many of the view commands. This is very useful for creatingalternate views of objects and for animation. Click to select - Click to de-select

PAN - move the view on the screen without changing magnification. F2 key.

Orbit - hold down the left mouse button to drag the object to a new view. F3 key

Dolly camera forward/back. F4 key.

Walk camera forward/back and side to side. Ctrl+F2 keys.

Zoom In/Out. F5 key.

Zoom Window. Ctrl+F5 keys.

Look At. F7 key.

Camera Target. (Resets the center of the camera view). Ctrl+F7 keys.

Fit Scene. (Zooms all objects to fit the screen). F8 key.

Save Camera.

Restore Camera.

Restore Last.

Perspective view On/Off. F9 key.

The most used commands are:

• Zoom WindowClick above left corner.Click lower right corner.

• Fit Scene. Zooms allobjects to fit the screen.

• Orbit. Rotates objects toallow designer to see otherfeatures.

Orbit Icon and results from orbiting a view.


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Creating Models using Intellishapes.

Using catalog shapes is the most basic way to create a unique object. By adding or subtracting shapesthe general form can be designed. Pulling or pushing on the shape handles gives an idea of the generalproportions needed. Later, accurate sizes and locations may be set.

These shapes will be sizedand combined to create afinished product.

When objects are dragged tothe scene so they do not touch,they will maintain their ownshape and identity.

When objects are draggedinto a sceneso they touch, they are automaticallycombined into a singleidentity. Their shapes maystill be changed.

• Shapes sized.• Shapes positioned.• Shapes combined.• Hollow from top

to create a non-spillcoffee mug.


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Accurate Sizes

Early in the design process accurate sizes may not be known. As the design progresses, sizes may bechanged many times.

After dragging an object onto thescene, three or more selectionmodes are used:

• Click on the scenebackground to de-selecteverything.

• Click once on an object toselect Part Mode. (Blue)

• Click a second time to select Intellishape Mode.(Yellow)

• Click a third time to selectFEV Face, Edge, VertexMode. (Green)

Right-Click For a menu to key in accurate sizes.

Intellishape Mode:As the cursor moves near thehandles, the cursor shapechanges. Left-Click and pull or push to change size visually.

• Right-Click on a handle.• Select Edit Size box.• Key in sizes.

Either 4.75 or4+3/4 depending on the useof decimal-inch orfractional-inchmeasurements.

• The handle you select will behighlighted in the Edit Size box dialog.That way you know whichmeasurement you arechanging.

Remember to start using the correct Units for thedrawing. You can change Units at any time using:Format .... Units as shown.


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Tutorial - Modeling with Intellishapes

More ways of locating objects will be shown later. In this example a 3” wide by 4” long by 1” thickblock is modeled. A .75 diameter hole is drilled 1.5” each direction from the lower right corner.

Block:

• Drag a block from the ShapesCatalog.

• Click on the scenebackground to de-select allobjects.

• Click once on the block(Part Mode - Blue highlight)

• Click one more time on theblock. (Intellishape - ModeYellow highlight).

• Right click on a handle.Set the size box towidth = 3.00length = 4.00height = 1.00

Hole:

• Drag the H-Cylinder(Hole Cylinder) from theShapes Catalog to the upperface of the block.

• Right click on one of thehandles and set length andwidth to .75.Make sure the height is large enough for the hole to gothrough the block.

Position:

• Pick Linear Smart Dimension(This menu is usually foundon the lower left side ofscreen).


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• Be sure the H-Cylinder is inIntellishape Mode.

• Left click on the green dot atthe center of the H-Cylinder.Drag the dimension to the edgeof the block and down alongthe face as shown.

• Do this again for the seconddimension.

• Right click each dimensionvalue and re-set to 1.50.

• Right-click each dimension and set Transfer to Drawing

Note:

Dimensions must beplaced from thecenter of theIntellishape to theface of the block.Not just to the edge of the block.

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Add another hole:.50” diameter.1.00” each direction fromthe upper right corner.

• Use the Orbit View commandto see the upper back face.

• Right-click each dimensionand set Transfer to Drawing.

• Save the model as EX-1.

Drawing Creation - IronCAD Only - (Inovate does not provide drawing creation).

Drawings are used to produce parts. Many companies prefer that only one part be shown on eachdrawing. Each drawing is presented on a Title Block. Standard sheet (paper) sizes have been set.

• Be sure the model has beensaved to a file. IronCad uses thefile extension .ics for savingscenes.(.ics = IronCad Scene)and.icd for IronCad Drawings.

The model we just created should beseen as EX-1.ics in a file listing.

A model must be saved before adrawing can be created.

Drawing sizes are designated byletters:

A-size forms may be either horizontalformat or vertical format.

Notice that A4 is the smallest metricsize and A0 is the largest. Readingacross, A (USA) and A4 (metric) areabout the same size. This is true as you go down the charts.

USA Drawing Sizes

A = 8 ½” x 11”

B = 11” x 17”

C = 17” x 22”

D = 22” x 34”

E = 34” x 60”(or more)

Metric Drawing Sizes

A4 = 210mm x 297mm

A3 = 297mm x 420mm

A2 = 420mm x 594mm

A1 = 594mm x 841mm

A0 = 841mm x 1189mm

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• Select B Size.icdas the form.(This will printOK on a 8 ½ x11 office printerbut it will not beto scale).

Notice the tab forMetric forms.

Drawings may be created on any of the forms shown. Office type laser printers usually print 8 ½ x 11or 8 ½ x 14 paper sizes. Special ink-jet, laser or pen plotters are used for larger sheet sizes. For much of the work in this book, 8 ½ x 11 prints are acceptable. IronCAD will automatically scale a large sheet tofit the printer. Text on large sheets then becomes very small but the prints serve well for “checkdrawings”. Sheet metal flat-pattern drawings should be scaled full size or 1 = 1 in order to create theparts directly from the print.

This is a standard title block form.

Note the placement of information in the various boxes.

Be sure to fill in the data as shown. Many companies set uppre-formatted title blocks to save time.

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Drawings - Placing Views

Click the Standard Viewicon as shown.

Select:

• Front• Top• TFR

And OK.

The views will be placed onthe drawing sheet.

Placing Center Lines

Zoom in.Look for the green outlinethen click the circle.

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Drawings - Placing Text

Click the Text icon.

• Draw a box to enclosethe text. The box maybe re-sized or moved as needed.

• Double-click on thetext box to edit existing text.

Text size and centering maybe changed using the textdialog box which appears inthe standard toolbar.End of IronCAD tutorialSave the drawing as DP-1

Finish Dimensioning.Zoom in. Click each dimension and move to a better location. Right-click to move dimension to another view. Use SmartDimension to place overall length and width.

Note: Double-clicking on the textbox to edit text may not work if the Template layer is locked. Click Styles and Layers icon and unlock Template layer.

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Inovate - Printing Models

Adding text - Scene View

Text may be added to the model of a part. This is useful when only the model is needed for preliminaryevaluation. A bitmap image maybe printed or attached to an email.

This feature is especially usefulfor INOVATE users.

Scene View.

• Click the Add TextAnnotation icon.

• Click a point on the part.

• Click a point for textlocation.

• Edit the text.


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Exporting a Model Bitmap

Printing from the Model Screen

__ Set the background to White.

__ Rotate the model to thedesired view. Zoom to fill thescreen

__ Put your name on the screen.

__ Click Print

This will print the model,dimensions and text in pictorialform. (No Title Block.)

Be sure to use a white background.

__ Save the model.__ Create a folder for saving images.__ Rotate the model to the desiredposition on the screen.__ Click File … Export ...ImageSet the file type to .jpgSet the filename to EX-1__Export the picture to the image folder.

You can save the image to the Clipboard.__ Select the object at Part Level.__ Click Edit … Copy

Open the image file in Paint, Word, etc.__ Click Start … Accessories...Paint.__ Paste directly or open the .jpg image file in the Paint Program, Word or othergraphics program.__ Print the image to a printer.

Note: This only prints the image but doesnot provide a title block, multiple views ordimensions.

Graphic images - .jpg, .bmp - may be inserted into worprocessor documents for illustrations.


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Problem 1. Model the part shown. Create a drawing. Save the model and the drawing as EX-2.

TriBall IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

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TriBall

Tri-Ball

Introduction Purpose Activation

Moving

Rotating

& Aligning

Outer

Handles

Inner Handles

(Orientation

Handles)

ApplicationsPositioning

Objects

Building

Assemblies

Linear

Translation

Axis of

Rotation

Temporary

Axis

Constraint

Orientation of

Tri-Ball or

Object

Center

Point

Point to

Point

Translation

Dragging

Use with

Axis

Constraint

Incremental

Snapping

Right-Click

Menus

Surface

ModificationAligning

Surfaces

Editing

Surfaces

Creating

Drafts

Edge

Modification

Blending

Edges

Chamfering

Edges

Align To

New Point

CTRL

Key

Intellishape

Sizeing and

Centering

Additional modeling techniques are shown which allow changes to surfaces on an object. Surfaces must be aligned to mating surfaces, surfaces must be angled and moved in the process of creating the finaldesign. Finally, modifications to edges are shown. Blends (Rounds and Fillets) are needed so thecomputer model can exactly describe the finished product.

The TriBall tool has been acclaimed as the most useful aid found in any modeling software. Precisepositioning, moving, copying, rotating, aligning, assembling, are just some of the uses of the TriBall.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE TriBall

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Select an object. Activate the TriBall

• Press Function Key 10 (F10)• Pop down Tools, select TriBall• Select the TriBall icon from the Standard Menu

Rotate about selected axis.(Interior pick)

Move along selected axis.(Exterior pick).

Move in 2D Plane

Move Center Point.(Interior pick)

Rotate about center point.(Pick Circle)

1. Pick interior axis. 2. Place mouse pointerinside circle. Holddown left key andmove mouse to rotateabout selected axis.

Linear movements maybe approximate or exact.

Setting exact distances:

• Left click and drag.• Place mouse cursor

over value shown.• Click to Edit Value.• Key in new value.• Apply to see

change.• OK to accept.

Left Clickoperationsshown here

Note: An option to freely rotatein all directions is available.


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Right click operations:

• Right click and drag.• Dialog box appears

automatically.• Select option.• Key in distance.

Interior Axis -Left Key Rotation:

• Click on interior axis.• Place mouse inside

TriBall circle.• Hold down left key

and push or pullabout the axis.

• Edit value if needed.

Interior Axis - Right Click Options

• Right Click on interior axis.• Select from options.

An extensive number of options areshown. Descriptions of the options aregiven on the next page. The listing isexcerpted from one of the Help screensfor the TriBall.

Re-Orient to Global

At times, the objects on the screen mayget turned slightly from the starting orglobal location. If this happens:

• Right click the screen background(not on an object).

• Click Orient TriBall to Global.

This will restore and object to a knownorientation. Very usefull tool!


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TriBall Commands


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TriBall Translation Controls

Additional commands have beenadded to the 2D Plane option. Selectthe plane to work from then select theoperation.

Objects may be moved or copied andthe selection point will stay in thesame plane. Three bolts were copiedfrom one using the 2D plane so theywere all positioned the same distancefrom the plate.

TriBall Orientation Controls


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TriBall Tutorial 1.

• Create a block 4” x 3” x 1”• Insert a H-Cylinder at the

corner.• Size the H-Cylinder to ¾”

diameter.

If needed, rotate the H-Cylinderto the vertical direction.

• Turn on the TriBall(Select Icon or press F10)

• Select the inner lower leftaxis.

• Push the cursor inside theTriBall circle.Rotate near 90 degrees.

• Right click to edit thevalue. Set to 90.

Move the H-Cylinder back andupward to the right 1”

• Pick the lower right outsidehandle. Push back and editdistance to 1”

• Pick the lower left outsidehandle and push upward.Edit distance = 1”

Copy the H-Cylinder upward to the right 2”.

• Right click on the lowerleft outer handle and push it upward.

• Select Copy Here.• Set the distance = 2”

Finished Part

Rotate aboutthis axis 90 degrees.


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TriBall Tutorial 2.Relocating the TriBall. When theTriBall is invoked, it may attach to apoint on an object which isinconvenient to use. The TriBall maybe moved to another point.

These operations reference the center dot (red). Left-click to select the dotthen right-click to get the menu.

• Press the spacebar. TheTriBall will change color. Thismeans it has been detached.

• Use any of the TriBallmovement tools. Mostrealignments use the centerpoint and a right click menu.

• Move the TriBall to the desired point. Right-click. Use the ToPoint option.

• Press spacebar again tore-attach the TriBall to thedesired point.

• With the TriBall attached to the corner of the small block, move the small block’s corner to thecorner of the large block.

Right-click. Use the To Pointoption.


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TriBall Menu.

• Select an object.

• Turn on the TriBall.(Press F10 or select iconfrom standard toolbar).

• Right click the scenebackground.

• A menu showing basicTriBall settings appears.

• Orient TriBall to Globalis very useful if the TriBallhas been moved to anunknown angle in space.(This happens frequentlywhen trying to re-set theTriBall).

• Change Snap Increments.This allows precise angularand linear positioning.

• Activate Snap by holdingdown the Ctrl key whilemoving the TriBall. Ctrl + TriBall action

For more information use HelpIndex: TriBall


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TriBall Tutorial 3.Coffee Cup.

• Start a new Scene(Model)

• Drag a Cone fromthe Shapes Catalog.

• Set sizes:Length = 5Width = 5Height = 4

• Rotate the view tosee the bottom ofthe cone.

• Drag a cylindernext to but nottouching the cone.

• Set the sizes:Length = 2+5/8Width = 2+5/8Height = 4


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Select the cylinder at Partlevel.

• Turn on the TriBall(F10 key)

• Attach the center of the TriBall to thebottom center of the cylinder. (It mayalready be attachedthere).

• Left click theScene background.This clears anyprevious TriBallpicks.

• Right click theTriBall center.Use:To Center Pointto move thecylinder to thecenter of the baseof the cone.Select the bottomedge circle and theTriBall will jump to the center of thebase.

Save your work.“Cup”

• Insert the Torusfrom the Shapes Catalog.

• Rotate the viewtoward the top ofthe cup.

• Set the size of theTorus as shown.

Select Circularedge


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Select the Torus at Part level.

• Turn on the TriBall.

• Rotate the Torus 90degrees about the lowerright TriBall Axis.

• Move the center of theTriBall to the center of theupper cylinder circle.Right Click on the TriBallcenter and use theTo Center Point option.

This positions the Torus at thecenter of the cup.

Next, visually move the torus tothe right side of the cup.

• Drag the lower right andupper TriBall handles tolocate the Torus.

• Turn off TriBall.

The cone, cylinder and torus areseparate objects because theywere inserted into the scenewithout touching each other.These objects must be joined(technical term: Boolean - Union) in order to create the hollow cup.

• Click on the scenebackground to de-selectother picks. Then, click onthe cone to select Partlevel.

• Hold down the Shift Keyand select the cylinder. This combines those two partsinto a single temporarygroup.

• Pop down the Shapes menu at the top of the screen.Click Boolean.

Boolean only two objects at a time.Cylinder <---> Cone = ObjectObject <---> Torus = Cup

Boolean Toolbar


47

The final step is to hollow the cup.

• Select the cup at Part level.• Click the Shell Part icon on

the Standard menu.

• Pick the top surface of thecylinder as the surface toleave open.

• A dialog box appears:Set the Thickness to .1

• Click the Green Dot to accept the settings and Shell the part.

Rotate the cup to verify the shellingoperation. Notice that even the torushas been hollowed out.

This tutorial has demonstrated somecommon TriBall operations:

Rotating objects.Moving objects.Assembling objects.

Save your work.

End of Tutorial.

Click green dot toaccept settings.

Create a drawing of the cup.Right click each view.

• Click Properties• Select “Show Hidden lines”

Fill in Your Name, School Name,Part Name. End of Tutorial.Save and Print the drawing.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Modifying Surfaces - TriBall

48

TriBall - Assembling parts.

In the previous tutorial, individual shapes were combined to form one shape. This is the process used to model complex parts which are composed of many types of basic catalog shapes. The result was asingle part.

An “assembly” (i.e. assembly of parts) is a group of parts which are related to each other in a fixedlocation to build a structure or a machine. The parts must keep their individual identity and must bealigned precisely with other parts. The TriBall is an excellent tool to use for precise alignments..

Original part with mating part Bolt, nut and washer added to complete assembly.

Modifying Surfaces - TriBall

Slanted (Inclined) surfaces onobjects may be created bymodifying an existing face.

Face/Edge Edit Toolbar(Standard Toolbar)

Edge Edit Face Edit

Click the Move Face icon.The menu bar shown aboveappears. TriBall is one optionavailable for modifying the face.

In this example the face is beingrotated 15 degrees about it’scenter.

Arrays and Patterns - TriBall IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

49

Version 5 of IronCAD provides theTriBall with new tools to createpatterns (arrays) of objects.

• Linear Pattern• Rectangular Pattern• Circular (Radial) Pattern

Items that are copied are related.

• Changing the size of oneitem will change the size ofall items.

• Changing the spacing of oneitem will change the spacing of all items.

Arrays of arrays may be created withall items asociated as above.

Arrays and Patterns - TriBall

Linear Patterns may be created byright clicking one external axis.Select Create Linear Pattern.

Rectangular Patterns may becreated:

• Left click one exterernal axis.• Right click the other external

axis.• Select Create Rectangular

Pattern.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Arrays and Patterns - TriBall

50

Creating linear and rectangularpatterns is dependent on the end of the axis selected and on the orderof selection.

• Selecting the end of an axisdetermines the direction thepattern will be created.

• The first axis selected is thefirst series of inputs in thedialog box.

Right-clickinside theTriBall todisplay this dialog.

Select:Show AllHandles

1st AxisSelected2nd Axis

Selected

Notice that the 2nd row is offset adistance of .50 by using the Stagger Offset setting.

Radial Pattern

• Position the object (hole)• Re-set the Triball center to

the center of the pattern.• Click the Rotation Axis• Right click and drag inside

the TriBall to show rotation.• Fill in dialog.

Click Axis ofRotation

Arrays and Patterns - TriBall IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

51

At times a Notification dialogbox will appear. Click Yes tocontinue. From this point,individual surfaces may bemodified but the Intellishapedialog will no longer be active.

Tapering a group of faces.

Click on the Taper Face Icon.Select the first face then hold down the Shift key and select additionalfaces.

A dialog box appears.

Click on Create Draft Plane

Select the top of the object as theDraft Plane.

Click Preview to see the result and the Green Dot to complete theTaper.

The darker surfaces are tapered 15degrees to the top surface. This isoften done for parts that are cast toshape. Draft angles might be from2 degrees to 7 or 8 degreesdepending on the casting process.

Draft Plane

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Modifying Surfaces - Intellishapes

52

Modifying Surfaces - Intellishapes

Aligning Surfaces.

Often, a surface on one objectmust align to a surface on anotherobject. In the example, the smallobject was dropped onto the largeobject. The side and back surfaces must align.

• Click the top block toIntellishape mode.

• Hold down the Shift keyand with the left mousekey, pull the surface intoalignment.

• Move the mouse onto thelower surface. When thelower surface highlights ingreen, release the leftmouse key. The surfaceswill be co-planar.

• Use the same technique forthe back surfaces.

Once the surfaces are aligned then the size of the top block may beset.

• Right click on the handle ofthe opposite face.

• Edit the sizebox. Thedistance set will bemeasured from the face aligned in the previoussteps.

Modifying Surfaces - Intellishapes IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

53

Centering alignment.

• Create a block 4” x 3” x 1”.

• Drop a second block on the middle of the firstblock. (As you drag the newblock in, watch for a greendot at the center of the firstblock).

• Hold down the Shift key and using the left mouse key,drag the upper left surfaceback to the right.Move the mouse pointeralong the lower right edgeuntil the green center dotappears. This places thesurface exactly on center.

• Right click the same handleand set the distance to:

Current distance + 1.5

• Right click the oppositehandle and set the distance to 3.00

• The top block may becentered front - to- backin the same manner.

The surfaces were centeredwith a front to backthickness of 2.00

GreenDotat center

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Modifying Surfaces - Intellishapes

54

Composite Shapes

Many objects are composed of basicshapes like rectangular solids, cylindricalsolids and hole shapes.

• Size the rectangular solid• Drag in and attach a cylindrical

solid to the mid point of the topedge of the rectangular solid.

• Hold down Shift and drag the backface of the cylinder into the planeof the back face of the rectangularsolid.

• Hold down Shift and drag the frontface of the cylinder into the plane ofthe front face of the rectangularsolid.

• Hold down Shift and drag thediameter of the cylinder into the side face of the rectangular solid.

• Place the hole.

Tip:Best modeling practice is to generate solids first --- holes nextfillets and chamfers --- last.

Modifying Edges IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

55

Modifying Edges

Sharp edges are dangerous so, for most products, edges must be filleted (rounded, blended) orchamfered (tapered). These modifications should be left to last as they often increase the file size, partcomplexity and the time it takes to regenerate the image. Modeling fillets and chamfers is a verydifficult process for the software and often will not complete as the designer might wish.

Fillet Chamfer

Four vertical edgesChamfered .25 x .25

Faces Filleted.12. By selecting thetop face, the tops ofeach hole were alsofilleted.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Modifying Edges

56

Scene Browser

IronCAD tracks the entities ineach part and on the entirescene. The scene browsergives a picture of the structureof all the entities on the screen.It is located on the upper leftside of the standard toolbar.

• Entities may be selectedfor editing.

• Entities may be deleted.

• Entities may bere-ordered. This changes the manner in which thepart was created

• Entities may berenamed.

As entities are selected in thescene browser, they willhighlight on the screen. Thishelps when a small or faraway item must be selected for editing.

Right click an item to displaythe edit menu. SelectEdit CrossSection to changea 2D outline.

Suppressing Shapes

Clicking Suppress willtemporarily remove the itemfrom view. Often, this willhelp when working on a shapewhich is covered by anothershape.

Parts may be renamed by clicking on the current part name slowly twice. Type in a meaningful part name. This is the name which will appear in the parts list later.

Entities within the part may be named. This helps when the part is being designed by a team and people must interact over networks or the internet

Click the “+” to seea complete structure

Modifying Edges IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

57

Exercise 1.A. Model the Yoke.B. Create a drawing.

Exercise 2.A. Model the Stop Block.B. Create a drawing.

If you wish to placedimensions - See Chapter 11.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Modifying Edges

58

Exercise 3. Model the part shown. The counterbored hole is: ” .75 DRILL 1.50 C”BORE .75 DEEP”

Problem 4. Model thepart shown. Create adrawing.

Create a drawing.Show Front, Top,Right and Isometricviews.

If you wish to placedimensions - See Chapter 11.

2D Drawing IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

59

2D Drawing

2D

Drawing

2D

Cross sections

Need for

2D

Layouts

2D

Toolbars

2D

Constraints

2D

Technical

Drawing Tools

2 point

LinePolyline Rectangle Circles

Arcs Tangents

Units

Grids

Snaps

Bezier B-Spline

Fillet

Construction

Tools

Creating

Construction

Entities

Changing

Construction

Entities

Offset

2D

ConstraintsLocking Perpendicular Parallel Tangent

Horizontal

and

Vertical

DimensionEqual Length

Equal AngleMirror

2D

EditingMove Scale Rotate

Multiple

Selection

Mirror OffsetProject

Edge/FaceSplit

Extend Trim

Show

Dimensions

Show

Curve

Dimensions

Show

Endpoint

Dimensions

Construction

Tools

Menu

Intellishape

Modes

Edit

Intellishape

2D Outline

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE 2D Drawing

60

While the Catalogs in IronCAD provide many shapes to aid in part creation, there are times when aunique outline is needed. All objects start as a 2D outline which is then extruded to a 3D shape. Objectswhich are not shown in the catalogs may be created in two ways:

• Modify the 2D outline of an existing catalog shape.• Create a unique 2D outline using the 2D drawing tools and extrude it to a 3D shape.

Intellishape Modes.

• Sizebox Handles (Default)Affects surfaces.

• Shape Handles -toggleAffects 2D outline. The 2Doutline is shown in cyan color.Move the mouse pointer neareach edge and a square shapehandle appears.

Sizebox Handle Editing.

• Left click on a handle tovisually set the size.

• Right click on a handle to key in exact size or select otheroptions.

Shape Handle Editing.

• Left click on a handle tovisually set the size.

• Right click on a handle to key in exact size or select otheroptions.

Note the differences. Go to:Help Shape Handles for moreinformation.

Click iconto togglemodes

Sizebox Handles Shape Handles.(Point mouse at edge).

Right ClickSizebox options


61

Edit 2D Cross Section.

• Right click on the object but not on a handle.

A third menu pops up. One option is to edit the cross section whichcreated the catalog object.

(Complete explanations of otheroptions are available by usingHelp).

The 2D cross section is displayedon a 2D drawing plane and the 2Ddrawing tools menus becomeactive. When the changes arecomplete, click Finish Shape todisplay the new object.

In this example the lower left linewas replaced with an arc. A circlewas drawn at the mid-point.

A closed outline inside a closedoutline is considered to be a hole.

Finished part.

Reshaping Catalog Items.Right click in Intellishapemode.

• Click Surface ReshapingProperties.

• Click Variables.• Change a variable.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE 2D Drawing

62

Creating 2D outlines.

• Select one of the Intellishape Menu items.• Click on the Scene background or on an existing object..• This invokes a “Wizard” or series of dialog boxes used to set up the new object.

IronCAD does not make the 2Ddrawing tools available in the SceneEnvironment unless a special typeof Intellishape must be created. The items shown are:

• Extrude Shape• Spin Shape• Sweep Shape• Loft Shape

IntellishapeCreation Menu.(Standard menu bar).

Clicking on the Scene background creates a Stand Alone object. Clicking on an existing object will provide the option to Add Material or Remove Material.


63

A 2D drawing plane appears. As part of the setup or, afterthe setup is completed, a grid may be turned on/off ifneeded.:

• Tools MenuPop Down

• Click GridSet the grid spacing.Use the check boxes to show/not show thegrid and drawingsurfaces.

Snap is a special drawingtool which forces the lines,arcs, circles to start or end on grid lines, existing geometryor specified points. Thesefeatures are selected bycheck boxes.

Lines and arcs were used to drawthe outline. Snap = Grid was set so allendpoints are locked to the grid.

The 2D drawing plane expands with mouse movements and geometry.

Entities may be selected and erasedif needed.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE 2D Drawing Tools.

64

2D Drawing Tools.

These icons appear at the lower side of the Scene. They may be moved anywhere on the screen.

2 point line. Pick start, pick end or right click to set length and angle.

Start a line tangent to a circle. Line remains tangent as other end is moved.

Start a line perpendicular to a circle. Line remains perpendicular as other end is moved.

Polyline. Draw multiple connected line segments.

Draw a rectangle. Pick diagonal endpoints.

Circle. 1. Pick center. 2. Pick radius or right click to set radius.

Circle by diameter. Pick start, pick end or right click to set radius.

Circle through three points.

Circle tangent to an entity and through 2 points. Right click to set radius.

Circle tangent to two entities and through a point. Right click to set radius.

Circle tangent to three entities.

Arc through two points. Right click to set radius.

Arc- center + 2 points. 1. Pick center. 2 Pick start point. 3. Pick end point.

Arc though 3 points. 1. Pick start. 2. Pick end. 3. Pick middle.

B-Spline. Pick a series of points to define an irregular curve.

Fillet a corner between two lines. Right click to set radius.

Click to turn on/off. All geometry drawn will be construction

2D Drawing Tools. IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

65

Construction Geometry.

The construction geometry icontoggles between “real” geometry and“construction geometry”.

Construction Geometry is used tolocate or aid in creating realgeometry.

The final real shape must be aclosed figure with endpointsconnected and no other entitiescrossing.

Construction geometry used to locatecircle centers.

2D Construction Toolbar.This toolbar must be turned on.

• View Pop Down menu• Pick Toolbars ... Toolbars• Click to turn on the

2D Construction Toolbar.

These constructions are similar to some of the regular 2D constructioncommands. The main difference is that they areinfinite in length. This makesconstructing regular geometry easier.

Show Curve Dimensions.

Feedback on the location of endpoints, radius, angle, etc. of entities isimportant. Two icons provide thistype of information. Show

Length andAngle

ShowEndpoints


66

Show Length and AngleShow EndpointsClick near the end of the lineto select display.

Right click on any value to edit the value. There is also an option to lock the point so other editing does not change an important setting.

2D Editing Toolbar.These commands are used to changeentities drawn on the 2D plane. TheToolbar is located on the lower leftside of the Scene screen.

Move selected entities. Right click to input vectors.

Scale selected entities. Right click to input scale factor.

Rotate selected entities. Right click to input angle.

Mirror selected entities. (First draw a construction line to mirror about).

Offset. Copy selected entities parallel.

Project 3D edges. Used to copy existing part shape to build a new part.

Split an entity at selected point.

Extend an entity to another entity.

Trim. Delete a section of an entity bounded by existing entities.

Note: To select multiple items, select the first itemthen hold down the Shift key and select more items.


67

2D Sketch Techniques Tutorial. Start a Extrude Shape.Use the settings shown.Place constraints to lock geometry to "Engineering Intent."

Draw a rectangle.(Bottom screen toolbar)Place the lower leftcorner at the X - Y axis0,0 point

Using the major andminor grid lines, makethe rectangle roughly1.5 x 2.5 in size.

Right-click on theupper end of thevertical line as shown.Change the length to2.00 The rectangular shapeis lost.

0,0


68

Undo the previouschange.Place a dimensionconstraint on the lineas shown.(Bottom screentoolbar)

Right-click on thedimension value andchange to 2.00.The line could extendeither direction!

Undo the 2.00.Right-click on thelower line end andlock the point.

Place a dimensionconstraint on the lowerline and set the lengthto 3.00

Reactangle shape is still lost.

Additionalperpendicular orparallel constraintsproduce unexpectedresults.

Using Horizontal andVertical constraintsfinally produces thedesired shape.

Because so many design changes take place, it is essential to logically and fully constrain shapes.Lock key points. Locate objects in relation to the X - Y axis.When a dimension is changed, the shape should behave as expected. End of tutorial.

On many screens, constraints will show in Red.


69

Tutorial - Creating a 2D Layout.

Early in the design process the shape of a part may be known but, the exact size may not be known.Parts may be created using a 2D (two dimensional) sketch. Part geomery and sizes can be updatedquickly by editing the 2D sketch.

This is the part to layout.Part thickness is .25”

Click Extrude Shape.Click the middle of thescreen. Refer back to this sketch.


70

• Click on the Rectangleicon.

• Using the major griddivisions click to theleft and below the X - Y axis at -3, -2.

• Click above and to theright of the X - Y axisat 3, 2.(You can drag a cornerto the correct location if needed).

• Indicators are placed on the sketch based on2D Drawing Optionssettings.Tools ... Snap ...Show

• Right-click a indicatorto Lock or Unlock as aConstraint.

Part of creating 2D sketches isthe ability to control the sketch shape as changes are made. Constraints allow the designerto maintain Engineering Intent.

Inovate users will need to turn on the Constraints Toolbar:View ... Toolbars Toolbars Tab2D Constraints

X

Y


71

• Draw .75 diameter circles at themid-point of each side of therectangle.

• Click on the Trim Curveicon.

• Trim out the excess arcs and edgesas shown on all four circles.

• Finish the Shape.• Edit the thickness to .25” if needed.

The completed shape is shown. Later, any size maybe changed to define the final part.Save the Scene as 2DTutor1.Make a drawing.

• Place a Dimension Constrainton the left and right circle centers. Click the X-Y axis origin point -Hold down shift and click the circle(not the center) -Move the mouse and set thedimension.

• Right click the dimensions andchange each to 2.00.The circles should move to the newlocation.

• Draw horizontal lines at the top andbotton of the circles as shown.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Constraints

72

Constraints

Placing constraints on a 2D layout provides “design intent”. The outline created in the previous tutorialis exactly what we want at this time. Any design will change several times before the final form is set.Changing a feature at this point may or may not result in the shape needed. Actually, changing a featurenow may result in a very unexpected result. Try it.

• Click the object justcreated to Intellishapemode.

• Right click the object andselect Edit Cross-Section.

• Place a.50 radius Dimension Constraint on each circle as shown.Change the .75 radius to.50 as shown. (Resultsmay vary).

How can the sketch bestabilized so changes becomepredictable?

Constraints Toolbar. (Lower right corner ofIronCAD Scene).

Perpendicular

Tangent

Parallel

Horizontal (L)

Vertical (W)

Concentric

Dimension

Equal Length

Angle

Co-Linear

Constraints may beapplied, deleted,Locked orUn-Locked

Placing a vertical dimension constraint to eachcenter and setting the distance to 0.00 will lockthe arc centers to the correct location. (click the X-Y center dot, hold down shift and click thearc). Use a Horizontal constraint on thetop/bottom tangent lines

Constraints IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

73

Tutorial - 2DDrawing Tools

Create a model of the part shown.Thickness = .375

Set Grid1.00 major.125 Minor

Turn off grid snap

• Change the radius of eacharc. The shape shouldchange in a predictablemanner.

• Finish the shape• Make a drawing.

End of Tutorial.


74

__ Place 4 circles approximately asshown.

Center circle radius = .625

Other circles are .50 radius.

__ Constrain dimension the centers of the circles.

• Dimesnion from the X - Y axispoint.

• Hold down Shift Key and click thecircle.

• Move the mouse to select thedimension direction.

• Click to set.• Dimension each circle radius.

__ Pop down Tools... Snap

• Set the tabs as shown. Snap to Grid may interfere with the tangentgeometry to be drawn next.


75

__ Draw tangent lines on the left and right asshown.

__ Draw the tangent circle at the top.

• Use Tangent-Tangent-Radius from thecircle construction menu.

• Click the two top circles.• Move the mouse to select the correct

connection direction.• Click to set the circle.• Dimension the radius to set the size.

__ Trim the circles. The outline must be a closed loop. The inner circle will create a hole.

__ Finish the construction.

• Make a drawing. • Dimension the part.

End of Tutorial.


76

Problem 1.Model the part.Create Drawing.

Problem 2.Model thepart.Create adrawing.


77

Problem 3. Model the part. Usethe METRIC Workspace. Create a drawing - use the A-size Metricdrawing sheet. Part is 10mm thick.

Thickness = 10MM.


78

Problem 4.

Metric

Thickness = 20MM

Make a drawing.Place dimensions.

Geometry IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

79

Geometry

Geometry

Construction

Lines

Tangent

Constructions

Other

Curves

2D Shapes

Converting

Real to

Construction

Locking

Geometry

Applications CatalogsParametric

Shapes

Constraints:

Length, Radius

& Dimension

Tangent

Constraints

Circles.

Constraints.

Layout

Techniques

Ellipses B-Splines

Dimension

Constraints

Converting

Construction

to Real

Shape

Handles

Editing

Using

Handles

Many parts require specialized geometry to create the shapes needed. All parts start out as a single 2Doutline (Extrusions, Spin Shapes, etc) or as a series of 2D outlines (Loft Shapes). Drawing in 2Dbecomes an important skill.

There is always the need to change the current design so the approach to 2D drawing must take intoaccount the possible unexpected result of modifying a radius or other item of geometry. Constraints on geometry (horizontal, vertical, parallel, concentric, tangent, etc.) are essential in maintaining designintent. Placing constraints will assure that changes will occur in a predictable manner.

IronCAD provides an extensive set of 2D drawing tools. Problems may occur when changes to theinitial layout are made. Keep backups of parts and quickly use the undo command if geometry behaves erratically.

Cursor Location Reading

An X - Y position indicator appears at the lower right side of the Scene when creating 2D outlines. Itgives location information as points are set and the drawing is created. Current units and time are alsoshown.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Geometry

80

Editing Using Handles

Geometry may be adjusted usinghandles or key points on drawingentities. Each entity may have two or more handles which are denoted bylarger dots that show as the cursormoves close to the handle location.

Each end of a line, the center andradius of a circle, etc. Serve ashandles. These entities may bemoved or re-sized manually bymoving the handle.

Entity Handles

Construction Line Toggle

Regular lines may be converted toconstruction lines or construction linesmay be converted to regular lines.Right click on an entity and eitherselect or deselect:Use Outline for Construction Only.

Right Click on an entity handle to change location by editing the distance or to lock the location.

Construction Lines are a quickand accurate method of locatingkey points on a sketch.

Offset may be used to addconstruction lines byoffsetting the L , W axis or

other lines.

LW

Offset ConstructionLines


81

2D Shapes

2D Shapes are a special form of objectin IronCAD. They have the attributes of a regular 3D solid except they have nothickness.

2D Shapes are created by clicking theicon and clicking a spot on the Scene.The regular 2D drawing and editingtoolbars become active.

2D Shapes are created and finished thesame as 3D solids. They may be storedin Catalogs and used as a template tocreate Extrude, Spin, Sweep or Loftsolids.

2D Shapes are an excellent way todefine interface control drawings. These drawings are used to define themating surfaces between parts in anassembly.

In the example to the right, the 2DShape was used several times togenerate the parts to the assembly.

If the all parts are Linked to the 2DShape then a single change to the 2DShape will update all the parts. (More on linking later).

Shape Catalogs

Shapes may be stored in customcatalogs.

• Click Catalogs .... New.• Drag the 2D Shape to the

new Catalog• Save the new Catalog with

a unique name.• Special Catalogs may be

accessed with theCatalog … Open command

The 2D Shape icon is located on the maintoolbar.

2D Shape

Top Part

Gasket

BottomPart


82

Length and Radius Constraints

Insuring design intent on 2D layouts isdone by setting the proper constraints.These constraints may be added at thetime the drawing is created by selecting the Automatic Constraints from thechart. Adding some constraints mayresult in over constraining the drawingand a warning dialog box may appear.

These same constraints may be addedlater by using the constraints icons.

Right click on the2D drawing grid toaccess this dialog.

Dimension Constraint adds either Radius, Lengthor Location.

Length and Radiusconstraints havebeen added to this2D drawing.

Changes in theradius of any of thearcs will maintainthe correctgeometry but willnot change thelocation of thecenters of the topand bottom arcs.

Adding the Length and Radius and Location constraints has another use: Parametric Design.By defining these dimensions, IronCAD can compile the uniquely specified lengths and radii into aspecial table which is accessed by the Show Parameters command. These unique dimensions mayeven be accessed by other software such as Microsoft Excel.

Note: To lookstraight at the griduse the Look At Icon (F7)


83

Parametric Design

This is a powerful tool used to drive design changes using spreadsheet type charts. Older CADDsoftware required erasing and re-drawing (just like on paper) when design changes were needed. NewerCADD software like IronCAD provides parametric access to defined lengths and radii. Changing avalue in the table will change the drawing/model automatically.

Right Click on the 2D drawing grid to access theParameter Table.

The actual dimensions on the drawing are replaced by variables from the parameter table to aid in editingthe intended sizes.

Parameters may be actual values or may be driven by formulas (expressions).


84

Tangent Constructions

Much special geometry involvestangencies.

• Line tangent to circle.• Circle tangent to circle.• Circle tangent to line and

circle.• Circle tangent to two circles.• Circle tangent to three

circles

and many variations.....

Circle Tangent Construction icons.

1 Tangent and pick 2 points/radius.

2 Tangents and pick 1 point/radius.

3 Tangents.

Note: At times you may right click and input aradius rather than selecting a point.

2D Construction Lines are infintelength construction lines which area great aid to laying out complexgeometry.

• Click View ... Toolbars.• Select the Toolbars Tab.• Check 2D Construction.

Angular Vertical Horiz Tangent Perp Bisector

Infinite length construction line


85

2D Layout Techniques

IronCAD provides two types ofconstruction lines:

• Regular 2D lines which may be changed to construction status.

• Infinite length constructionlines from the 2D Constructions toolbar.

Bisect an angle:

Use the 2DConstruction tooldirectly

Divide a line

• Dimension the line length.• Draw a line perpendicular at the

end point.• Offset the line.

Draw triangle - 3 sides given.AB= 2.873, BC= 1.42, AC= 2.77

• Draw AB=2.873• Draw circle BC=1.42• Draw circle AC=2.77• Locate intersection "C"• Draw triangle

A

B

C


86

Euclidian Geometry - Locating Centers

IronCAD provides many construction options which make creating geometry very fast and accurate. Itwould be impossible to provide every option. At times it is necessary to “set up” the location of a keypoint using traditional 2D Plane Geometry techniques.

Arc Through a Point andTangent to a Circle.

A 2” radius arc (circle) must passthrough A and be tangent to circleC at B.

There is no direct construction forthis.

Solution: (Think)“All points 2in from point A would be on a circle with A as the centerand a 2in radius.”“All points 2in from circle Cwould be on a concentric circle 2in larger than C.”

Construction:

1. Using A as a center, draw a 2”radius construction circle.

2. Using C as a center draw a2” + .500” = 2.500” constructioncircle.

3. Where the construction circlesintersect at D is the center for thecircle/arc passing through A andtangent to circle C.

4. Draw the circle and trim back toan arc.

5. Set the Tangent constraint.

B ???

A

C

D

2” Radius

A

C


87

Constructions like the one on the previous page are often needed. It is a good intellectual challenge to“reason out” the steps needed in a particular situation. Older textbooks on Engineering Drawing,Engineering Graphics or Architectural Drawing often show many examples. Classic texts on PlaneGeometry may be of help.

CADD software varies greatly from company to company on the 2D constructions that arepre-programmed. All software vendors listen to requests from customers regarding needed capabilities.If enough people ask, a new construction will be added to the next software release. Almost all thenewer CADD softwares including IronCAD include a programming language such as Visual Basicwhich allows users to add their own constructions to those already available.

Polygons

2D drawing commands are also located on the Create pop-down menu.More constructions areshown here than are availableon the bottom screen menu.

Polygon constructs inscribedor curcumscribed regularpolygons with 3 to manycorners.

Click the center point thenright-click to display theEdit Polygon dialog box.

Inscribed circle optioncontrolsdistance across flats

This is the most commonconstruction for bolts and other hardware items.

Curcumscribe circle optioncontrolsdistance across points


88

Ellipse

Create using Ellipse or Ellipse Arc.

Modify Circle

• Select the circle.(Left Click).

• Right click thecircle and pick:Curve Propertiesfrom the dialogbox.

• De-select circle.Input the ellipsesizes.Handles onthe ellipse may bemoved forapproximateorientations andsizes.

Polygons

Use the Polylineicon to drawconnected lines.

Right-click to setlength and angle.The Tab key willtoggle betweeninput boxes.

Angles aremeasured fromZero degress along the "L" axis.


89

B Spline Curve

A B-SPLINE curve is a mathematically shapedsmooth curve that is defined by a series of points.When drawing the points it is best to set up a grid.Set Snap to a logical value in relation to Grid andcarefully digitize the points.

Curve shape may be edited by moving the handlesthat appear along the curve. IronCAD does notprovide X - Y readings for the intermediate pointsalong the curve.

A Spin Shape was created from the B-SPLINEcurve.

Exact B-SPLINE contours may be imported. Using a text-onlyeditor such as Notepad, the X - Y values for each point onthe curve are listed on eachline. The X - Y values may beseparated by a comma, tab orspace.

Below, the points on a curvewere typed into Notepad. Acomma was used to separate X and Y values. List one pointper line.

This technique for drawingB-Spline provides greataccuracy and makes editingcurve shapes more accurate.

IronCAD will import a widevariety of shapes and objects created in other CADDsoftware, spreadsheets,editors, and vector baseddrawing programs.


90

Center Lines

Centerlines are a veryimportant part ofgeometry display anddimensioning. Centerlines should be placedat the centers of allholes, cylinders, arccenters etc.

Automatic centerlinesmay be placed bysetting automatic mode on the Tools ... Options...Annotationdialog box.

Individual centerlinesmay be placed usingthe drawing tools onthe main menu.

Box Select used for linearview

Select end of centerline and drag to adjacent view.


91

Problem 2.A. Model the WING NUT.Add a 1.5 diameter cylinder tothe mid-point of the bottomsurface. Finish the model asshown below.

B. Create a drawing of the part.

A

2.00 radius passes through point A

Problem 1.A. Model theSHAFTSUPPORT

B. Create adrawing of thepart.

? Center ?

Locate using

Euclidian

Geometry


92

Problem 3.A. Model theFIVE LOBE KNOB.Fillet the edges as shownbelow. Use .125 radius.

B. Create a drawing of thepart.

Problem 4. A. Model the GEAR QUADRANT.

B. Create a drawing of thepart.


93

Hint: Create a new Extrude Shape from the top surface of the previous part. Set thickness = .25Use Copy 3D Curve to copy sections of the existing outline to create the bosses.

Problem 5. A. Modify the previous outline to the final part shape as shown. The bosses are .25 thickabove the top surface. Fillet the top and bottom surfaces with a .06 radius as shown.B. Create a drawing of the part.


94

Problem 6. Model the Elliptical Cam.

Make a drawing. Dimension. Show Centerlines.

Animation IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

95

Animation

Animation

Surface

PropertiesColor Transparency

Object

Rotation

Defining

SmartMotionsKeyframes

SmartMotion

Editor

Orthographic

Projection

View

Rotation

Views

of

Objects

Normal

View

Pre-

Defined

Views

Orthographic

Projection

Studies

Manual

Rotations

Designing machines, structures, consumer goods, architectural construction, etc. Involves not onlycreating parts and assemblies but visualizing the final form. Static views provide much informationabout shape and assembly. Both customers and designers need to see the operation of a product.Computer animation can be used to put a machine into motion or create a movie-like “walk through” ofa proposed structure. Design faults or enhancements may be seen through motion studies that might notbe apparent from static images.

IronCAD provides an extensive set of animation tools. One catalog contains standard rotations andpaths. Special motions may be created using animation dialogs. Animation timing and sequencing isdone using a clear, graphical animation editor.

This chapter provides an introduction to IronCAD’s animation capabilities.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Animation

96

Demonstration PartTutorial.

Create the part shown.It will be used anumber of times in this chapter.

Save the part asAnim1.

Note: In the tutorialbelow, existing edgesof the block will becopied to the 2Ddrawing plane. Thisassures the new partaligns accurately.

Drag a block onto theScene.Edit Sizebox:

Length = 1.5Width = .75Height = 2.25

• Add an ExtrudeShape to the right face as shown.Use .25 gridand .125 snap.

• Project 3DEdges the farright andbottom edges of the 3D block tothe 2D sketch.Draw the lines for the “L” shape.Trim the bottomline.

• Dimension theedges to set thesize.

• Finish the objectas shown.

Trim

Note: Project 3D Edges is used to assure that the new shape aligns exactly to the existing part.


97

Views of Objects

Perspective vs. Axonometric

Perspective view is the defaulttype of view. It shows objectsas the eye sees the shape. Edges which are really parallel areshown as if they would intersect at a far distant point.

Axonometric views show theedges truly parallel. AnIsometric view is shown.

Standard Views

Chapter 1 presented a quickintroduction to orthographicprojection. Objects are definedby a series of 2-dimensionalviews. These same views maybe obtained using severalcommands in IronCAD:

• Look At Icon. Pick thesurface to look 90degrees to.

• View ... ToolbarsToolbars TabSelect Camera Picker.Select desired face orpictorial view.

Restoring Orientation

At times objects get rotated out of position when using theTriBall. To restore orientation:

• Select Part mode.• Right click, select

Part Properties.• Select the Position Tab.• Set the angle to zero.

Perspective ViewAxonometric View

Perspectiveicontoggles

Front View Right View

Look Aticon


98

Object Color and Transparency

Setting parts to different colors helpswhen working with assemblies andanimations.

• Click to Part mode

Right click and select SmartPaint.Change the surface color for the entireobject.

Changing the transparency is done using the same dialog box.

• Select the Transparency tab.• Making the object more

transparent is a good way tovisualize hidden features that arenot seen in a particular view.

Wireframe Mode

Click FormatRendering

Set the dialog box as shown.

This will display the objectin wireframe mode withdashed lines for hidden lines.


99

Manual Rotations

Rotating an object from front-to-top andfront-to-right views is shownto the right.

The front view is the key view.Each rotation is exactly 90degrees from the front view.

Use Anim1 to obtain the viewsshown below.

Similar views may be obtainedusing the Orbit Camera icon.

Place the icon on the front view.Click the left mouse button and pull down to go from frontto top.

Place the icon on the front view.Click the left mouse button and pull to the left to go fromfront to right side.

Format … Rendering

__ Set transparencey to 60.Animate the rotations.

__ Set Wireframe mode.Show Part EdgesShow Hidden EdgesDashed.

Animate the views. Observe thehidden lines on the object.

Left-backedge

Set transparency = 60

Try rotation to:bottom viewleft viewback view


100

Surface Colors

Click the object to FEV mode.

• Select a surface.• Right click and pick

p.• Select the color for an

individual surface.

Load Anim1 again and set thesurface colors as shown.

Save As Anim2.

Magenta

Red

Gray

Blue

Green

Yellow

Orange

Animating Object Rotation

Be sure to check the object anchoricon for height, length, widthdefinitions.

Use the Look At icon to set thefront view of Anim2.

• Pop down the View menu• Select Toolbars

• Turn On the SmartMotions tool.

Object Anchor

Rotation of the part depends on theorientation of the object anchor. Weneed to know how Height, Lengthand Width are defined. This iconappears in the middle of the partwhen Part mode is selected.Length = short lineHeight = long lineWidth = (not shown)

ObjectAnchor

LengthHeight


101

Left click the Scene backgroundto de-select everything.

Left click the object to activate the Animation tool.

Click Add New Path(looks like a piece of film).

The first rotation will be to thetop view and back to front.

The Smart Motion Wizardappears:

• Select Spin• Select About Width Axis

(or other as needed).• Set the rotation to

90 degrees.

Page 2 of the Wizard sets theamount of time for the action.

2 seconds is OK.

The angular rotation and timefor the event may be changedlater.


102

Test the animation.

• Click the Animation ONicon.

• Click the AnimationPlay icon.

Did the object rotate the correct direction?

In our example it did not.(Bottom view showing - not top view).

Editing SmartMotions

• Click the View menu• Select

SmartMotion Editor

The editor is a graphical chartwhich shows the motionsassociated to a part.

In order to change the WidthSpin motion, the bar for thepart (Part8 in this example)must be expanded. Once thebar has been expanded themotion we wish to change willbe visible.

Right-click Width Spin andselect Properties.

• Select the Path tab

• Set Current Keyto 2.

ON

Play

Double-clickor Right-clickand selectExpand

Expanded form


103

Key Frames

This term has been used since the beginning of animation technology. In any sequence of motionscertain transitions must be made in order to get from the start point to the end point. Key frames wereused to show the major steps along the way. They defined a logical breakdown of simple steps toaccomplish a complex action. CADD software creates a series of small transition images based on keyframes which the designer defines.

• Click Key Setup• On the scroll down menu

select Roll.• Change the 90

to -90.This will reverse therotation.

Try the animation again. Make sure the object rotates from afront view to a top view.

Paramemters:Length = TiltHeight = PanWidth = Roll

Add another Width Spin.

Set the rotation to 90 degrees.

If you run the animation now,nothing will happen becausethe two spins oppose eachother.


104

Visually edit theanimation:

• Pull the right edge of the top bar over to60.Point at the rightedge of the bar andwatch for an arrow.Click and pull.

• Adjust the twoWidth Spin motionsas shown.

• Right click each bar. Select Propertiesand edit the namesas shown.

Replay the animation. Thepart should rotate to a topview, pause, rotate back toa front view. Watch themotion slider as theanimation plays.

Move the animation slidermanually with your mouseand watch the rotation..

Add two Height Spins:One +90 the other -90.Edit playback as shown.

Slider

HeightSpins


105

Orthographic View Studies

Use the preceding animationsequence to become familiar withthe rotations used for orthographicviews.

Because of the cuts on the bottomand back of the part, hiddenfeatures are difficult to visualize.

Animation sequence to see:

• Bottom View• Left Side View• Back (Rear) View

Front View

Bottom View

Left sideview

BackView

Rotation 90Rotation 90

Rotation 90

The rotations shown on the previous page and on this page are very important in understanding thetheory of orthographic projection. These rotations are the most difficult to visualize for persons justlearning to create or to understand (”read”) technical drawings. IronCAD provides excellent tools which allow us to demonstrate and become very familiar with this theory and process.

New orthographic views are rotated 90 degrees from the previous view.

• Creating the views of an object from a pictorial is relatively easy. • The most difficult process to master is the ability to visualize every feature and

create the pictorial from the multiple views.

Work with the animation techniques shown until you are confident that you can “see” objects in threedimensions.


106

A. Modelthe partshown.

B. Create aFront - topandfront-leftanimation.

C. Add aleft-backanimation

A. Model the part shown.

B. Create aFront - topandfront-rightanimation.

C. Add aright-backanimation(Continuespinning thepart from the right view).


107



C. Create adrawing ofthe part asshown.



C. Create adrawing ofthe part asshown.


108

Problem 5.

A. Model the part shown.

B. Apply blends as shown.

C. Animate front-to-top andfront-to-right orthographicrotations.

D. Create a drawing as shown above.

NOTE:ALL ROUNDS AND FILLETS R .06UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.

R .254 PLACES

Normal Surfaces IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

109

Normal Surfaces

Normal surfaces are the most common surfaces found on machine parts, architectural construction andobjects of all kinds. Modeling normal surfaces is relatively easy with IronCAD. And, so is creating 2Dorthographic drawings.

Reading orthographic (2D) drawings of objects with normal surfaces is not easy. In fact, it takes a verygood ability at three dimensional perception to mentally picture the shapes shown. The purpose of thischapter is not only to model shapes with normal surfaces but to use IronCAD as a tool to help illustrateand develop visualization processes.

Developing three dimensional perception is one of the highest mental challenges. IronCAD’s shadedsolid models, ability to rotate objects in real time and easy animation gives us powerful tools to see thistheory in action.

Normal

Surfaces

Definition

and

Theory

Normal

Surfaces

in Space

Standard

Views

Normal

Surface

Charts

Objects with

Normal

Surfaces

Modeling

Sketches

to

Extrusions

DrawingsMultiple

ViewsDimensioning

Animation

Proving

Surface

Charts

Verifying

& Analyzing

Views

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Normal Surfaces

110

In the next chapters, the primarytypes of surfaces will be analyzed and modeled.Plane surfaces:

• Normal surfaces• Inclined surfaces• Oblique surfaces

Curved surfaces:

• Cylindrical surfaces• Spin shapes• Lofted curves• More …

Normal surfaces are always 90degrees to adjacent surfaces.

A requirement of OrthographicProjection is that each view of an object is rotated exactly 90degrees from the previous view.

In the picture to the right, theobject is rotated 90 degrees fromthe front to the top view.

The object is rotated 90 degreesfrom the front to the right view.

Three primary picture planes areused in orthographic projectionto obtain the views of an object.

• Front (Frontal) plane• Top (Horizontal) plane• Right (Profile) plane

These planes are respectively 90degrees to the other two planes.In the example the normalsurfaces on the object arerespectively parallel to onepicture plane and perpendicularto the other two picture planes.


111

Six regular views may be shown byunfolding the six planes of the boxonto a flat plane.

This is the process IronCAD uses forthe drawing enviornment. (The backview may be to the right of the rightview or to the left of the left view).

Normal surfaces behave in aparticular way when an object isshow as a series of 2D views.

Surface in the front view:

• The surface in the front viewappears as only a horizontal edgeof the surface when seen in the top view.

• The surfacein the front viewappears as only avertical edgeof the surface when seenin the right view.

Realizing that this is always true ispart of developing the ability tomentally picture complex objectswhen only a series of 2D views areshown.


112

Surface in the Top view:

• A surface in the top view willappear as ahorizontal edge(full width left-to-right)of the surface in the front view.

• A surface in the top view willappear as ahorizontal edge (full depth front-to-back)of the surface in the side view.

Surface in the Side view:

• A surface in the side view willappear as avertical edge(full height top-to-bottom)of the surface in the front view.

• A surface in the side view willappear as avertical edge (full depth front-to-back)of the surface in the top view.

This is true for normal surfaces in theright or left side views.

Read the Normal Surface Chart from leftto right. This is the total set of rules thattell how normal surfaces appear in each of the views.

Engineers, Architects, all people whowork from drawings visualize complexshapes by analyzing surfaces. Part ofunderstanding the process is to apply thisvery limited set of rules. Every line on adrawing has a reason for being there.

Seeing vertical and horizontal lines ona drawing probably means that normal surfaces are present.


113

Tutorial - ModelingNormal Surfaces

Many Catalog items containnormal surfaces. Model the partusing Catalog shapes.

Note: Same part used earlier -different modeling process.

Aligning surfaces using theshift-key is used to assure thatsurfaces are co-planar.

Drag a block onto theScene.

Edit Sizebox:Length = 1.5Width = .75Height = 2.25

Drag a block to theupper right corner.

Click the top handle of the new block and hold down the shift key. Drag the top surface down until itis the plane of the top surface of the original block (green highlight). Do the same for the back andbottom surfaces.


114

Set the size of the new block.

Note: this must be done in two steps to avoid dis-jointedobjects.

Right click the front handle.Edit Sizebox.Set the length to .50.

Right click the right handle.Edit Sizebox.Set the height to .75.

• Add another block to the inner, lower corner.

• Shift + Drag the backand bottom surfaces toalign with existingsurfaces.

• Again, in two separate steps:Set the width to 1.38

• Set the length to .50

Save the part as Normal-1.


115

Tutorial - When tosketch?

The prevouis model was created by adding blocks, aligningsurfaces and setting sizes. Theexample at the right wouldrequire a number of additionsand subtractions to createblock-by-block.

Much of the shape can bedefined in a sketch then a fewsubtractions will finish the part.

Create an Extruded Shape.

• Set the extrusion depth to 6.

• Set the grid to .25

The shape to be drawn is seenin the right view. The gridappears in a top view direction.Modeling parts when the grid is turned out of position isdifficult and often results inmentally getting “lost in space”.

• With only the gridshowing, turn on theTriBall (F10) and rotatethe grid 90 degrees to theright as shown.

• Draw the outline as seenfrom the right view. Set snap to grid to makedrawing easier.


116

Much of the shape of the part has been created.Removing material in a few places will finish the part.

Select Extrude Shape again. Set to Remove material

Using the TriBall, move the grid to a known point on the object. The grid was rotated 90 degrees so the “L” axiswas horizontal and the “W” axis was vertical.

Drag the resultingcutouts through theobject.

Hollow out thegroove in the topsurface.

Save the part asNormal-2

Draw closed curves to define theshape of the material to beremoved.


117

Dimensioning

Much must be known about a part in order to dimension it properly.

• How does the part fit with other parts?• How does the part function?• What accuracy is needed on each part feature? Greater accuracy = greater cost.• How is the part manufactured?• What materials? Etc.

IronCAD allows parts to be designed in close relation to existing parts. This helps greatly in avoidingerrors in hole locations and mating surfaces that would be hard to know if each part was drawnseparately. Modern production techniques use the same data to manufacture the part that was used tomodel the part. This eliminates many errors and provides very accurate numerical data to the machinetools. (CAD/CAM = Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Machining).

The following examples are limited to single parts. General dimensioning practices will be shown.

Create a drawing from Normal-2:

Dimensions should be placed “where the shape shows best”. Notice that the top view has many lines but no easily recognized shape! Dimensions should not be placed to hidden lines.


118

TOLERANCES

.X = +/- .10 IN.

.XX = +/- .03 IN.

.XXX = +/- .010 IN.

+/- .03 equates to a tolerancezone the thickness of a penney.

+/- .010 equates to a tolerancezone the thickness of 5 pieces of20# notebook paper.

Left side of screen

Named Styles

Default Properties

To turn on hidden lines,

• Right Click each view• Select Properties• Select Hidden Edges

Required Accuracy

Many companies use the numberof decimal places in a dimensionto tell the shop workers whataccuracy is expected. See chart atright.

IronCAD is pre-set to show 3decimal places in decimal inchdimensions. Most generaldimensions should be 2 decimalplaces. It would be an expensivemistake to show more decimalplaces than were actually needed!

Changing DimensionSettings

Dimension styles are associated tothe title block. Permanent changesrequire editing and re-saving thetemplates that appear on theDrawing Menu startup screen.

Local changes on a drawing - by -drawing basis are done by :

• Changing or addingNamed Styles and,

• Selecting Default Properties.

Click Create New Style


119

Type a name for the newstyle - Decimal

Specify Dimension Style

Use ANSI as the seed file.

Click Modify Properties.

Click the Measure Tab

Set Precision to 2.

Explore the other tabs onthis screen. See how to settext height, tolerancedisplay, etc.

This same screen may beseen by right clicking adimension and selectingProperties. This allowsone-at-a-time setting of asingle dimension.

Click OK to close eachdialog box.

Now, set Decimal as thedimension style to be used.

Click the Default Properties icon.

Select Dimensions andDecimal. OK.


120

Placing Dimensions

The icons on the dimension toolbar indicate thepurpose of each pick.Information onSmartDimensions isavailable on the Helpmenu.

SmartDimensions may beused to place nearly anytype of dimension.

Options are toggeled usingthe Tab Key.

• Pick near the end of a line to dimension the line length. (Avoid endpoints or the mid-point).The line will highlight in green. Click and move the dimension to the desired location.

• To dimension a gap, click the endpoints of the bounding lines.• If an endpoint-to-endpoint dimension goes on an angle, press Tab to change to horiz/vert.


121

Editing Dimensions

Move.To move a dimension, place thepointer over the dimension untilthe “hand” appears. Left click anddrag the dimension to a newlocation.

Change Value

• Right click the dimension.• Click Properties.• Select the Tab for the item

to be changed.

Dimension Notes

Icons are available to add notesand symbols to the drawing.

The General Note creates a leaderline, arrowhead and text box.

Double-click the text to makechanges, correct spelling, etc.

General Surface WeldNote Finish Symbol


122

Problem 1-A

Open Normal-2

Carefully examine the bottomsurfaces and features. Sincethis area of the part is hidden in the top view, it is very difficultto visualize.

Create a drawing as shown inthis chapter. Show hiddenlines.Dimension the drawing asshown using 2 and 3 decimalplace dimensions.

Problem 1-B

Animate the rotations for thisobject: Front-top-front-bottom-front-right-front.

Problem 2-A

Model the part shown

Problem 2-B

Create a drawing of the part.Show hidden lines.Dimension the orthographicviews.

Problem 2-C

Animate the front-to-top andfront-to-right orthographicviews.

Click Format .... RenderingWireframeShow Hidden Edges .... Dashed

Run the animation and study the hidden lines.


123

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esU

ci rteM eca

pskro

W. sl edo

m eseht gnitrat s nehw

Hint:

Splitting the screen and displaying different views of the same item is helpful during modeling.

• Right click the screen.• Select the type of split.


124

Inclined Surfaces IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

125

Inclined Surfaces

Inclined

Surfaces

Definition

and

Theory

Inclined

Surfaces

in Space

Standard

Views

Inclined

Surface

Charts

Inclined

Surface

Modeling

Sketches

to

Extrusions

Moving

Surfaces

TriBall

Rotations

Drawing

Structure

Editing

2D Layouts

Animation

Proving

Surface

Charts

Verifying &

Analyzing

Views

Dimensioning

Methods

Transfering

Dimensions

to Drawings

Normal surfaces are either horizontal orvertical in space. (See previous chapter).

Inclined surfaces have a single slant inspace. These surfaces are very commonin construction (roofs) and on machineparts.

Oblique surfaces have a double slant inspace. They are often calledcompound-angle surfaces. (See nextchapter).

Inclined -Single Slant

Oblique -Double Slant

Normal -Horizontal or Vertical

Plane Surfaces - Inclined

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Inclined Surfaces

126

Inclined Surfaces in Space

An inclined surface appears as anedge-of-surface in one view and asforeshortened surface in the other twoviews. Notice that the “T” shaped surfaceon the object is perpendicular to the frontview picture plane. The surface is at anangle to the top view picture plane.

Because the T-shaped surface is at anangle to the top picture plane, it’sprojection to the top view creates animage shorter than the actual extent of the surface (foreshortened view).

The same is true for the projection to theright picture plane. The resulting viewshows the surface shorter than it’s actualextent.

Notice that the shape of the surface is thesame in the top and right views.

An inclined surface appearing as aninclined line in the front view will appearas a foreshortened surface in the top orbottom view and as a foreshortenedsurface in the right or left view.

The surface will always have the samegeneral shape in each of the views.


127

An inclined surface might appear as aninclined edge-of-surface in the top view.The surface will appear as aforeshortened surface in the front viewand as a foreshortened surface in the sideviews. The surface must always have thesame number of corners and edges.

An inclined surface might appear as aninclined edge-of-surface in the side view. The surface will appear as aforeshortened surface in the front viewand as a foreshortened surface in the topviews. The surface must always have thesame parallel and non-parallel edges.

The inclined surface chart is shownbelow. Read across. This is the completeset of rules for inclined surfaces.Knowing this is true helps to visualizeinclined surfaces on drawings.

Modeling Inclined Surfaces

Specifying Inclined Surfaces

Inclined surfaces may be dimensioned inone of two ways.

• Angle of inclined edge.• Offset dimensions for inclined

edge.

Angle Dimension Method Offset Dimensions Method


128

Inclined Surface - AngleSpecified.

Method #1.

• Select theMove Surface Icon.

• Pick the surface torotate.

• Attach the TriBall to the surface.

• Move the TriBall to thelower corner.

• Rotate about an axis.In this example thecomplement of the angle was used.

Method # 2.

• Create the base object asan extrusion.Note: Be sure the X - Yaxis is set properly.Use the TriBall to rotatethe grid if necessary.

• Draw the 2D outlineusing the sizes andangles specified.

• Extrude to a 3D object.

X

Y


129

Inclined Surface -Offset Dimension Specified

Method #1.

• Create the rectangular base shape.• Add a Tooling Block to the top of the

base part.Make the front and right surfacesco-planar with the base part. Make the block 1.25 long. The otherdimensions do not matter.

• Start the Move Surface command.Select the right surface to move.

• Attach the TriBall to the lower leftcorner.

• Right-click the inner handle and selectTo Point. Point at the lower left cornerof the tooling block.

• Finish the construction.Delete remaining portions of thetooling block.

Note: the Tooling Block concept is awork-around used to locate a measured pointalong the top edge of the base part. At times it is necessary to delete unused portions of thetooling block.

Aim the innerhandle at the end ofthe tooling bolck.

Method # 2.

• Create the base part.• Invoke Extrude Shape to

Remove Material.• Use the TriBall to move the grid to the

upper corner of the base part.• Draw the outline for the material to be

removed.• Finish the object.


130

Tutorial - Inclined Surfaces

• Create an extruded shape.• Use the TriBall to rotate the grid to the

Right View. (Might be … 90 degrees upand 180 degrees to the right).

• Draw the outline. Input angles anddistances longer than needed.

• Trim to define the shape.

“X”“Y”

Note: Special pictorial view shown - not isometric


131

• Finish the shape.

• Rotate the view to see theBack View of the object.

• Create an Extruded Shapeto Remove Material.

• Trim the excess line lengths to forma single closed shape.

• Each cutout shape must be createdand finished separately


Note: Eachcutout shapemust be createdand finishedseparately.

Making Changes - Part Structure

Making changes on the part involves going back to the 2D drawings that were used tocreate the body shape and the angular cuts.

• Select the Scene Browser icon onthe standard menu.

• Click the “+” next to the Partlisting. This will show the structurefor the part.

• Right-click one of the Shapes. Adialog box appears with the option to edit the shape.

45-45-90Triangle


132

Transfering Dimensions toDrawings.

Dimensions used to create 2D shapesmay be transfered to drawing sheets. This is the only way to place dimensions on isometric views.

• Both linear and angulardimensions may be transfered toorthographic views.

• Only linear dimensions may betransfered to isometric views.

Dimension the shape using the linear and angular dimension constraint icons.Right-click each dimension and toggle Transfer to Drawing. A “>” symbol appears.

Dimensions automatically transfer toorthographic views of new drawings.

• Right-click linear dimensions andtoggle Move to Another View.

• Click the isometric view to place the dimension.

• Pull the extension lines to partcorners.

Create a drawing from the tutorial modelas shown. Dimension as shown.End of Tutorial.


133

Tutorial - Inclined SurfacesAnimation

Animate the last part. Showfront-to-top and front-to-left siderotations. Prove the Inclined Surfacecharts.

Obtain the front view of the object.

• Pop down View .. Toolbars• Select Camera Picker.• Pick the Front view.

If another view is shown, use theTriBall to rotate the part to get the"front" view.

• Re-select Front view. Place aletter on the inclined surface asshown.

Because of theway the part wasmodeled,selecting thefront view mayactually show adifferent view

Select the Insert Text Shape icon.

• Pick the face shown.• Page 1:

Set the text height to 1.00and the thickness to .06.

• Page 2: No bevel.• Page 3: Back.

• Type “A” in the edit box.• Click on a blank screen area

to set the text.• Use the Triball to rotate the

letter if needed.

"Front" Viewfor rotations.


134

Use the Orbit Camera icon to position the front view as shown. Slowlyrotate the object to the top view, back to front and to the left side view,back to front. Place the cursor icon in the middle of the view so the rotation will be astraight as possible.

Verify the rule:

“An Inclined surface appearing as an inclined line (edge-of-surface) in theside view will appear as a foreshortened surface in the front view and as aforeshortened surface in the top view.”

• Delete the letter and setcolors for each surfaceas shown.

• Click each surface toFEV mode.

• Use SmartPaint to coloreach surface.

• Create front-to-top,top to front andFront -to-left,left-to-front animations.

Note: In setting up therotations an error was made. (Front-to-right andright-to-front angles werespecified).

The error was “fixed” bysetting the time frame for the4th rotation to run before the3rd rotation.

Carefully observe theappearance of each surface as the animation runs. This is a very good study ofhow Inclined surfaces appearin each of the views.

Yellow

Orange

GreenBrown

Cyan


135

1 2


136

This is a very

challengingproblem

. F

or advanced students only.

Oblique Surfaces IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

137

Oblique Surfaces

Oblique

Surfaces

Definition

and

Theory

Oblique

Surfaces

in Space

Standard

Views

Oblique

Surface

Charts

Dimensioning

Methods

Oblique

Surface

Modeling

Animation

Proving

Surface

Charts

Verifying &

Analyzing

Views

Modifying

3D Solids

Tooling

Block

Setups

TriBall

Orientations

Plane Surfaces - Oblique

Oblique surfaces have a double slant inspace. They are often termedcompound-angle surfaces.

Oblique surfaces are found on roofconstruction, machine parts and consumeritems. These surfaces appear asforeshortened surfaces in all the regularviews.

Sketching or drawing oblique surfacesrequires special care since the surfacesnever appear as an edge in any of the views. Warped or non-planar surfaces may result.

Modeling oblique surfaces on the computerwill result in true plane surfaces.

A compound-angle sine plate is shown with the top plate rotated to an oblique angle.This is used to measure oblique surfaces.Some machine tool tables have similaradjustments for cutting or drilling.

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138

This oblique surface is cut down-to-the-front anddown-to-the-right. It appears as aforeshortened surface in all theregular views.

The simplest oblique surface iscreated by passing a plane throughthree points :“1” on the front-top edge“2” on the top-side edge and“3” on the front-side edge.

This is a true plane surface.

Oblique surfaces:

• Must have the same generalshape in all views.

• Must have the same numberof corners and edges in allviews.

• Must have the same paralleland non-parallel edges in allviews.


139

Oblique Surfaces - DimensioningMethods.

An oblique surface is determined by threepoints not in the same straight line.Specifying more than three points on asurface may create a warped surface andwould be incorrect. Three points may bespecified in several ways:

• Dimension a point and two angles.

• Dimensions to two points and anangle.

• Dimensions to three points.

Point 1

Point 2

Point 3

Tooling Blocks - Oblique Surfaces

Since IronCAD does not provide a directmethod to define points on objects, atemporary construction may be needed. At times angles may be used as given. Greatcare is needed to be sure that if an angle is used it is the true angle needed.Regardless of the dimension method usedabove, at least one tooling block must becreated unless some other features of thepart provide the points needed.

Set X - Y axis as shown with TriBall.

Temporary Tooling Block

LW


140

Tutorial - Oblique Surface - Point and Two Angles Given

• Create a block W=4, L=3, H=2.5• Use the dimensions shown on the

previous page for point andtwo-angle dimensioning method.

• Orient the block toward the left side face as shown.

• Use Extrude Shape to create aprotrusion on the left face.Thickness = .25

• Block in the 45 degree line - anylength accross face.

• Set the distance upto the lower end =.500.

• Use the Project 3D Edges iconto copy the top and left lines to thesketch.

• Draw a horizontal line to completea closed surface -any length.

• Trim the excesslines.

• Finish the extrusion. Thistemporary object will be removedlater

Longer Than Needed

Temporary Tooling Block


141

• Use the Extrude Shape icon toremove material.

• Place the 2D drawing grid on thetop face of the block.

• Turn on the TriBall and move thegrid to the lower corner of theblock.

• Using the TriBall, move the grid up .500.


142

• Click on the background tode-select any commands.

• Click on the lower right axisof the TriBall.Rotate the grid 32 degreesupward to the right as shown.

Note: Push inside the upperhalf of the TriBall to get theangle from horizontal.

• Click on the background tode-select any picks orcommands.

• Right click inside the TriBallbut not on any entity. Fromthe large dialog box, clickShow All Handles.

• Rotate the view so you arelooking more at the leftsurface.

• 1. Click the interior handlethat is oriented upward to theright at 32 degrees.2. Right click the handlepointing upward to the leftand select To Point.

• Orient the handle toward theinside corner of the toolingblock.

This last sequence is critical. Thegrid plane has been orientedtoward the tooling block at “X”. Picking the 32 degree axis firstsays “ rotate about this axis” andselecting the 2nd handle directionallows the 2D grid plane to passthrough “X”.

Pick this Handle First

Right Click This Handle

Point Here

X


143

• Draw a rectangle on the 2D gridlarger than needed.


OOPS! Shape removal went the wrong direction!

Click theScene Browser icon

Right click the shape which just removed the material.

From the large dialog box select Flip Extrude Direction.If this option is not available, Set Forward End Condition to 0.00Ignore the warning.Set Backward End Condition to a large number (maybe 4.00).This should correct the problem.

Right click the Tooling Block Shape and selectSuppress.

Suppress thetooling blockshape. This willremove it fromview but save it for reference in casethe part changeslater.

The grid direction arrowshould point upward


144

Save the model.

Create a drawing.

• Dimension theangles and lengths.

• Verify the angles are correct.

End of tutorial.

Tutorial - Oblique SurfacesThree Points Given.

Create a model of the part shown.Three points on the oblique planeare defined by:

• The upper left corner.• .50 height.• .75 width.

1. Create the block:Width = 4.00Length = 3.00Height = 2.50

2. Place the groove down themiddle.

1.50 wide1.00 deep

Centered on the left face.


145

Create two .25” height tooling blocks on the faces of theobject as shown.

• Copy 3D Object Lines• Offset parallel lines.

(.50 or .75 ).• Trim excess lines.• Finish.

• Create an ExtrudeShape to RemoveMaterial.

• Pick the upper leftcorner of the block forthe 2D grid center point.

• Turn on the TriBall.Select an axis.Use the To Point option to aim the axis throughthe inner top righttooling block corner asshown.

• Click the background tode-select anycommands.Click the same axis just set as the axis to rotateabout.

• Right click the otheraxis on the 2D planeand using the To Pointoption select the cornerof the lower left tooling block as shown.

• Finish the shape.Turn on theScene Browser.Reverse the extrudedirection if needed.

Be sure the directionarrow on the grid facesthe correct direction.Reverse the ExtrudeDirection if needed.

• Suppress thetooling blocks

• Create a drawing and dimensionthe drawing.

• Verify thedimensions.

End of Tutorial.

.75

.50


146


147


148

Oblique surfaces - OrthographicView Animation

Problem 5.

A. Model problem 1 page 138.

B. Create a detail drawing with dimensions.

C. Animate the orthographic views:Front-to-top.Top-to-Front.Front-to-Right.Right-to-Front.

Problem 6. A. Model the part shown. B. Create primary and secondary auxiliary views. Do not dimension.Note: See information on “Auxiliary Views” in this textbook.

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Curved Surfaces

Cylinders are very common shapeson objects of all types. Storage tanksfor fuel and gas can be very large and many such shapes may be seen in astorage field. Cylinders are primaryshapes which are combined withother shapes to define many objects.

Cylinders are bounded by circlularedges and by contour lines. Unlikeconventional part-edges, contourlines define the boundary of thecylinder but no sharp corner exists.Contour lines appear at the extremesides (points of maximum width) ofthe cylinder on both positive andnegative cylinders..

Contourline

Circularedge

Contourline

Positive Cylinder

Negative Cylinder

Contour line

Cylindrical

and Curved

Surfaces

Definition

and

Theory

Cylinders

in Space

Standard

Views

Dimensioning

Methods

Curved

Surface

Modeling

Spin

Shapes

Extruded

Shapes

Intersection

of

Surfaces

Swept

and Lofted

Shapes

Swept

Shapes

Lofted

Shapes

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150

Standard Views

The left, right, top and bottom quadrantpoints in the top view define the contour lines in the other views.

The centerline location in the front view is the contour line location in the rightview.

The centerline location in the rightview is the contour line location inthe front view.

Point “B”

Point“L”

Point“R”Point

“F”

Contourline “L”

Contourline “R”

Contourline “F”

Contourline “B”

Dimensioning Cylinders

If the full cylinder is shown, specify thediameter.

If less than the full cylinder is shown,specify the radius.

Dimension to the center of holes. Twodimensions required:

• Horizontal location• Vertical location

IronCad sketches require radius input for circles. If the diameter is known, type inthe diameter/2 and let the computer dothe math.

Intellishape dimensions for cylinders arespecified as diameters.

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Modeling Sequence

Cylindrical shapes may be createdusing the extrusion command. Thehollow section shown at the right wascreated using concentric circles. This is a quick way to generate the shape butit can lead to problems withintersecting shapes.

If cylindrical holes are needed, it isoften best to model all the positivecylinders first then model the holes.This assures that extra solid shapes donot get left in the model.

Genral rule: Model solid shapes first.Model holes last.

If the hole was created by anH-cylinder intellishape then theproblem can be corrected byre-ordering the sequence in the Scene Browser.

Intersecting the 1stcylinder leaves aportion of the 2ndcylinder inside thehole.

Hole created byH-Cylinder

Drag with left mouse button.

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152

Spin Shapes

Complex surfaces ofrevolution may bemodeled by creating a2D outline thenrevolving it about anaxis. This is often farquicker than assemblingthe model using catalogshapes. Regular 2Ddrawing tools are used to create the cross-section.Be sure to assignconstraints.

The Spin Shape Wizard sets theconditions for generating theshape.

Step 2 designates the angle ofsweep and direction.

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153

Step 3 invokes a grid if needed.

Before drawing, set Snap options:

Tools (pop down menu)Snap

In this example a distance snap hasbeen set = ½ of the grid size.

In the example below a closedoutline was drawn offset from the“W” axis. This created a center holein the part.

Note; If the 2D outline intersects the“W” axis, it is not necessary to closethe shape.

Tutorial - Spin Shape

Create the part shown. Grid = .25

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154

Swept Shapes

A single 2Dcross-section is sweptalong a path. The pathmay be composed oflines, arcs, or Bspline curves. The starting path type is selected then additional segments may beadded.

In the example a concentric circle was swept along a path startingwith a Bspline curve, then astraight line and an arc wereadded. This creates a section ofbent tubing.

Two steps are involved:

• Draw the 2D cross-section.• Draw the 2D path.

A 4-step wizard is used to set upthe model.

The third step defines thestarting segment for the curve.

Edit the starting segment to addadditional segments.

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155

Step 4 sets up a drawing grid if needed.

The sweep axis is displayed at the center ofthe X - Y grid and an arrow shows the sweepdirection.

Tutorial - Swept Shape

Frame for a personal vehicle.2” x 2” x .125” Hydro-FormedSteel Tubing.

Note: Use centerline radius for sweeppath. (R=3.00 and R= 6.00).See drawing at right.

• Start the Sweep Shapeconstruction. Set a straight line asthe path curve.

• Use 1.00 major and .25 minor gridlines

Path Curve• Click the left origin line and offset it right 18”. (Construction lines). • Offset the same line right 66”• Right click the end of the path curve and set the distance = 84”. Zoom the view.

Draw 6” radius circles at 18” and 66” locations.• Trim out the line segments inside the circles. Trim out the lower circle segments.• Fillet the line/arc intersections using a 3” radius.• Finish the path curve shape

Origin

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Lofted Shapes

156

Lofted Shapes

Very complex shapes may be createdusing lofting. The term loftingoriginated in the boat building and(later) the aircraft industry. It isrelated to the generation of boathulls, sail shapes, aircraft wings andother sculpted shapes.

A series of cross-sections are drawnand the outer shape is blendedbetween the cross-sections by thecomputer.

• Select Lofted Shape

• Set the number ofCross-sections

Cross-section view

• Draw a 2.00 x 2.00 square centered on the path curveendpoint as shown.

• Offset the 2 x 2 square inward.125.

• Finish the cross section.• Finish the part.

Create a drawing, dimension and print.

End of tutorial.

Lofted Shapes IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

157

Select the basic setup just to getstarted.

Cross-sections and guide curvesmay be modified once the basicshape is created.

Below: Three section, rectangle,straight line was selected.

Set up the drawing grid.

Pop down Tools.Set Snap requirements

Final shape after editingcross-sections to:

1= circle2= parallelogram3= ellipse

Basic Shape

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Lofted Shapes

158

Tutorial - Lofted Shape

Elliptical Candy Bowl

• Start a lofted shape.

• Use 3 circular sectionsStraight line axis.Set Grid = .25

• Right click the end of the axis and set the length to 2.5

• Finish the curve.

• Right click section #1.Edit the cross-section.Right click the circle.Edit Curve Properties.

• De-select circle.Set Major Axis = 2.5Set Minor Axis = 1.5

• Finish the cross-section.Go to next section (2).

• Click the cross-section grid.Turn on the TriBall.Drag the cross-section up = .800.Turn off the TriBall.

• Right click circle #2.Edit Curve Properties.De-select circle.Set Major Axis = 3.5Set Minor Axis = 2.5

Click Next Section.

Sectioning Parts IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

159

• Set the dimensions for section#3 the same as section #2.


• Click the bowl.Click theShell Part icon.

• Select the top surface.Set the thickness =.15

Sectioning Parts

Section views of parts may be created in the Sceneenviornment and in the Drawingenviornment. This example was done inthe Scene view. Parts appear to becut-away but actually remain as modeled.

The Section Tool is located on the upperright side of the Standard Toolbar.

• Click the part.• Click the Section Tool• Select the cutting plane direction.• Select the cutting plane location.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Sectioning Parts

160

Tutorial - Section View (Scene) &INOVATE

• Create a Spin Shape• Use .250 grids.

Set Snap = GridDraw the outline shown on the X - Y axis.

• Place the Axis of Revolution on the W-axis.

• Finish the shape

• Click the Section Tool• Set the L - H plane as the

cutting plane.

Cutting plane directionChange to L - H Cutting plane location Points at solid to keep.

Finish orCancel

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161

• Click the center of the hole as the cutting plane location.

• Reverse the direction arrow topoint to the lower half(half to keep) if needed.

• Finish the view.

• Right-click the cutting plane.

• Click Hide to show the part.

• Pop down the Scene Browser.Notice that the Section Toolshows as an entity in the list.

• The Section Tool may be Suppressed to return the fullview. The section tool may bedeleted.

Note:Section views in the Scene View are not transfered to the Draft View. The Draft View has a section view tool for use in that enviornment.

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162

Helical Extrusions and Cutouts

Helical shapes are located on theTools Menu.

• Drag the icon from the menuand drop it as a separate item ifa stand-alone model is neededor, drop it on an existing shapeif material is to be added orsubtracted.

• Desigining the helical shaperequires access to the dialogbox. The dialog does not display immediately.

1. Click the helix objectto Intellishape mode.

2. Right click on the helix object and clickAdd on Properties.

3. Edit the dialog box.

Changes for cross-section, helixdirection, add or subtract material andcoil design are available from the dialogbox.

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163

In this example a stand-alone squarespring was designed. Coils, Pitch,square cross section size, base radiuswere set.

A 2D Shape was created to act as aCustom cross-section for the helix shownbelow. Click CrossSection and selectCustom profile. This could also be used to cut away material as shown below. Note X - Y axis directions.

LW

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164

Complex Curved Surfaces

Zero thickness surfaces may becreated in a number of ways. Thesesurfaces may be used for:

• Tool path analysis• Geometric analysis• Create cutting surfaces for

separating objects or creatingsculpted surfaces by removingmaterial.

The special surface creation tools allallow Solid or Surface options. Thesurface option creates azero-thickness entity that has thesame attributes as a solid. Surfacesmay be extruded to become solids.

The thin surface shown was createdusing the sweep function. It was then subtracted from a block to create thecomplex surface shown.

Creating Surface entity from part.

• Click the part to Face Mode(Green outline).

• Right-click and selectCreate Surface Shape.

• Click the background tode-select. Click the newsurface.

• Attach the TriBall to move the new surface.

The new surface entity may beextruded, saved as a part or saved ina catalog.

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165

3D curves are key elements in many of the advanced surface shapeconstructions.

A 3D curve may be extracted fromexisting surface geometry.

• Click the part to surface mode.(Green outline).

• Right-click and selectCreate 3D curve.A heavy black outline appears denoting the 3D curve.

This 3D curve will be used to createa cut along the top edge of the partto create a lip.

• Select the Sweep icon.

• (Step 1) Select the top surfacefor the sweep location.

• (Step 3) select 3D curve.

• Finish the wizard.

• Click on one section of thecurve. The drawing grid willappear. Use the TriBall toorient the grid if needed.

• Draw the outline of the cut orprotrusion.

• Finish the sequence.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Complex Curved Surfaces

166

3D curves are the elements used for creating complex curved surfaces. 3D curves are created usingstraight lines, arcs or splines. 3D curves may be modified using fillets or connectors. A connector willjoin two 3D curves.

Connector

Smooth shape

3D curves wereused in thepreliminary designof this fender shell.Each line is shownas a part. Lines may be supressed toremove them fromthe view. The partwas created as aLOFT surface.

The inside of the thin shell is shown. Theshell may be used to create plastic or thinmetal parts. Or, it may be used to create theforming dies needed to produce the parts.

SurfaceToolbar

Click ViewToolbars

SelectSurface

This will displaythe SurfaceToolbar. Loft was used inthis example.

Follow the sequence ofprompts to set the basepoint and select theshape curves.

X Y Z point input

Complex Curved Surfaces IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

167

Each point on the shape curve may be editedto correct or refine the curve.

U - V Mesh Surface

The U - V Mesh surface is defined by 2D or3D lines. Lines in each direction must beroughly parallel and intersection lines must be approximately 90 degrees at the corners.

Other types of surfaces may be defined:U-V Mesh surfaceRuled SurfaceSpin Surface3 or 4 Edge Surface

Ruled Surface

The surface was created by drawing a 2D shapeof two angled lines and a fillet. Right-click the2D shape and convert it to a 3D line. Using theTriBall copy the 3D line back to the other side of the part.

Use the Ruled Surface to cut the part leaving thelower half. 3D curves from the lower part wereused to create the upper body.

Other surfaces were used to create the upperbody shape.

Ruled Surface

SpinSurface

Ruled Surface

EdgeSurface

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168

Problem 1.

Trolley Wheel.For an overheadcrane.

Create as a SpinPart. Material:Malleable Iron.

Problem 2. Use a sweep shape to model the Safety Handle.

AXIS OF ROTATION

Problems

Problems IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

169

Problem 3. Lofted Shape. Design a lid for the Elliptical Bowl Tutorial. (Example uses 5 cross-sections).

Problem 4. Lofted Shape. Design a container for a consumer product.

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170

Problem 4. Lofted Shape.Design a Carry Handle for a case.(Example uses a Bezier guide curve andrectangular/circular cross-sections.

Problem 5. Custom Helix.

Create the helical shape using thesettings shown in the dialog box.

Create the 2D shape first.The cross-section of the 2D Shapeis .50 wide by .25 height.

Tools Catalog IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

171

Tools Catalog

Tools Catalog.

Tools

CatalogBearings Gears Springs

Hot Formed

Shapes

Cold Formed

Shapes

FastenersSpecial

Holes

Assembly

Drawings

Creating

Parts in

Place

Extrusion

Menu

Options

Exporting

Single Parts

& Assemblies

Many standard shapes and machine elements may be created quickly using objects from the ToolsCatalog. Some of these objects are very complex shapes and would normally require considerable timeto model. Combining tables of values from standards manuals with BASIC program routines allowsIronCAD to quickly create models for many standard drawing shapes. Most models require some userinput to create the exact item needed.

Many of the objects from the Tools Catalog are used with unique parts which designers create.Whenever two or more parts are designed to connect to or interface with other parts, an assembly isformed. IronCAD allows parts to be imported into a scene or, new parts may be designed using shapesfrom existing parts - all in the same scene.

If multiple parts are designed in the same scene, each part may be saved as a separate object for use inother assemblies or for 2D drawing purposes.

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172

Tools Catalog

Bearings are specified in Metric units. Several types ofbearings are available in the dialog box.

Input either the Bore (inside) diameter or the outsidediameter. Clicking the other boxes shows the corresponding dimensions.

Set the Bore Diameter. Click each box and read thecorresponding values.


173

GearsDialog Box.

Five typesof gears arelisted.

ThicknessBore Dia.Pitch RadiusandNumber ofTeeth arebasic inputs

Helix:

• Drag the helix catalog item onto thescene.

• If the Add-on Properties dialog box does not show, click the helix objectto Intellishape Mode.

• Right-click and select Add-on Properties

• Input the helix cross-section, number of turns, etc

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174

Hot FormedSteel Shapes.

A number ofstandard shapes areshown.

Input the length ininches. (Inches arealso used in Metricenviornments).

Cold Formed Steel Shapesshapes are shown.


175

Special hole shapes areneeded for bolt heads andthreaded holes.

More information onfasteners and special holesin shown in the Fastenersand Assemblies chapter inthis book.

Fasteners

A number of bolts,nuts, washers, pinsand rings areavailable.

Select Englishor Metric fasteners atthe bottom of thedialog box.

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176

Assemblies

The flange, pulley and center shaftwere designed in a single drawing.

The gear, bearings and jam nuts were desiged using objects from theTOOLS Catalog. Once inserted, they were aligned using the Tri-Ball.

Each part should be designed as aStand Alone object.

Be sure that objects inserted fromCatalogs do not touch existingobjects on the Scene.

An exploded ASSEMBLY DRAWING is shown. Parts are identified by Bubble Callouts. Part numbers are listed in the Bill of Materials. The TriBALL was used to position the parts.

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177

Save as Part/Assembly

Individual parts are designed asstand-alone objects. Each objectmay be saved as a separate part file. The saved file is liked to theoriginal model so changes to eitherfile are updated automatically.

Detail Drawing of Flange. The flange was saved as a separate part then a drawing was created.

Notice the use of a sectional view to allow dimensioning to hidden features and to clarify internalshapes.

The Tolerance Block relates the number of decimal places in each dimension to required tolerances.Precision tolerances are specified by limit dimensions.


178

Tutorial - Table Assembly

Build a Steel Table using 1.5 X 1.5 X .25 hot formed angleiron.

Overall dimensions:Height = 30 IN.Length = 60 IN.Depth = 28 IN.Weld all joints.

Assemble to maintain outside dimensions. Account for .25” metalthickness.

Side Rail 27”

Front/Back Rail 59.5”

Leg 30”


179

Step 1. Place the legs.

• Create one 1.5 x 1.5 x.25 x 30” angle iron.

• Move the TriBall to theoutside corner as shown.

• Copy and rotate eachpiece to the correctlocation and position.

Be sure to check the outside dimensions to be sure the legsare in the correct location. Length = 60”, Depth = 28”.

Step 2. Place the front and back rails.

• Create one 1.5 x 1.5 x .25 x 59.5”angle iron.

• Move the TriBall to the outside corner.

• Rotate the rail and move it tothe upper outside corner of theleft - back leg.

• Move the rail right .25”.Move the rail forward .25”.

• Copy, rotate and place the other 3 front/back rails.

Step 3. Place the side rails.

• Create one 1.5 x 1.5 x.25 x 27” angle.

• Move the TriBall to theoutside corner.

• Rotate the angle and place it at the outside corner of the left -back leg.

• Move the side railforward .50”.Move right .25”Move down .25”.

• Copy, rotate and placethe other 3 side rails.

Check to see that all partsare in correct position.


180

Part Properties

Step 4. Set the Properties for eachpart. This information is transferred to the Bill of Materials.

• Right click each item.• Select Part Properties.• Fill in the information for

each item as shown.(12 items total).

Hint: You can highlight the User Name box (it may be highlighted already),Press CTRL-C to copy the data to the clip-board.Click in the Description box.Press CTRL-V to paste the data to the description box.Add the length.Then, fill in the Part Number box.

Save the model.


181

Save as Part/Assembly

Step 5. Save one of each part asa single part file. This part filewill be used to create a detailpart drawing.

• Click on a LEG.• Pop down the File Menu• Select:

Save as Part/Assembly• Input the Part Name and

the save path, etc.• Do the same for a

front/back rail and aside rail.(3 part files total).

Detail Drawings

Step 6. Create adrawing for eachunique part. (3 total).

• Open a newdrawing.A-SizeHorizontal.

• Set the path toone of the partsjust saved.

• Set the viewsneeded.

• Dimension thepart.

• Fill in the titleblockinformation andtolerances block


182

Assembly Drawing - Creating

Step 7. Create a new drawing. Use a B-Size format.

• Import a single view (or more views if needed).• Format the Bill of Material.• Format the Bubble Callouts• Format the Weld Symbols.

Bill of MaterialIcon(Upper right screen area).

• Click the icon• O.K. To accept the

default formats.• Move the Bill of

Materials block to the location shown.


183

Since a number of partswere identical, IronCADhas combined like parts into a single entry with correctquantities.

IronCAD has assigned Part Numbers to each entry.

Bill of Material -Bottom Up display

Many companies prefer abottom-up display. Rightclick the BOM and selectBottom Up Display.

Note: The list may re-appear incorrectly with lines missing and extra spaces.

Bill of Material -Editing

From the right click dialogbox above, select Edit.

__ Use the “-” button tozoom back the view.

__ Drag the vertical columnlines to re-size the columnwidths if needed. O.K. Tore-insert the BOM.

This should correct anycolumn width problems.


184

Bubble Callouts - Placing

Item numbers are automaticallyassigned by IronCAD. BubbleCallouts are shown on the assemblydrawing to cross-reference parts in the drawing to items in the parts list.

• Click the Bubble Callout Icon.• Click an item on the drawing

and position the callout.Numbers are automaticallyassigned and keyed to the PartsList.

Weld Symbols

• Click the Weld Symbol Icon• Click a joint location.• Select a Fillet Weld

Click this box(ARROW SIDE)

OTHER SIDE

ARROW SIDE

End of tutorial


185

Tutorial - Table AssemblyPart 2.

__ Open the Steel Table model.

__ Create an assembly.

Pop down theScene Browser

Highlight thesteel items. UseShift-Click.

Click theAssembly Icon to Create anAssembly .

Rename theassembly:

Table Assembly

Add a top and bolts to the steel table. Bolt holes must bedrilled in the top and the steelframe.

Putting a hole through twoparts usually causes the partsto be unioned into one whichis not what is needed here.

A special Assembly Featureis used to create a commonhole through multiple parts.

__ Drag a block into the scene. Do Not Drop on an existing part.

__ Set size: 60 wide, 28 deep, 2 thick.

__ Use the Triball to move the Top into position.


186

__ Add the Top to the assembly

• Rename the block "Top"• Left-click the Top and drag it into the

Table Assembly in the Scene Browser.

__ Rotate the Table Assembly to the bottomview as shown.

__ Right-Click, drag anddrop a H-Cylinder onto the corner of a cross piece.(See next page)

Right-Click and dragfrom a catalog to createa Assembly Feature.

A special dialog boxappears to set the waythe object will interactwith the parts of theassembly

__ Set the H-Cylinderdiameter.

We will use a 1/4 diameterbolt so the hole size withclearance must be 1/4 +1/32 or .281 diameter.


187

Set the H-Cylinder to a corner of a crosspiece.

Since the bottomflat surface of thecross piece is about1.00 wide, the holelocation will be setat the mid point.__ Move over andup .50 using theTriBall.

__ Create a 1/4-20UNC x 2.75 HEX SOC HD bolt.Use: Screws ... Socket andselect hexagon socket.

The head diameter =.414head height = .237.

__ Create a counterbore inthe table top:15/32 diameter9/32 deep (for clearance).__ Insert the bolt using theTriBall.


188

Turn the table over and add:__ 1/4 standard washer__ 1/4 standard nutUse the TriBall to assemble as shown.

__ Create holes and add 3 more bolts,washers and nuts at the other 3corners.

__ Create a new Assembly Drawing

__ Create a Detail Drawing for theTop.

End of Tutorial.


189

Mitering Corners.

Use the Move SurfaceIcon and select the endsurface.

• Turn on the TriBall.Move the TriBall to theupper corner as shown.

• Rotate the surfaceabout the vertical axis45 degrees.

Beveling Edges

A corner relief of sometype must be provided atinternal corners due to therounded shape of the steel.This is done by the shop inorder to fit the endsproperly.

Corner reliefs may becreated by grinding a filletor by chamfering the edgewith a cutting torch.

A drawing note may beused:FIT CORNERS ASNEEDED.

Interference

CornerRelief


190

Problem 1. A. Model the cutting table. B. Create an Assembly Drawing with Parts List, Symbols. C. Create dimensioned Detail Drawings of unique parts.

Step 2. Create a 35.5 x 3 x.25steel grate piece. Notchthe upper corners asshown.

Use the TriBall to copythe grate. Spacing = 3”

Create a 47.5 x 35.5 x 4slag pan.

• Start with a Block.• Use the Shell Part

command.Set thickness =.125

• Fillet Weld thenew parts.


191

Problem 2. A. Model the parts for the assembly. B. Input Properties for each part. C. Create detaildrawings for each part*. D. Create the Assembly drawing and Bill of Material.

WASHER

This item is easiest to modelas a Spin Part. Dimension asshown.

Main Assembly


192

Sub-Assembly

Bearing (Item 2) is a force-fit with Pillow Block (Item 1). Since two partsessentially become one part, thissub-assembly is considered one item on themain assembly. This same sub-assemblycould be used on other products thecompany manufacturers.

• Use the ANSI Limits and Fits tablesFN-1 tables to determine thedimensions for the hole and shaft.

The hole in the bearing must be a running-fit with the shaft. Use the RC series ANSI Limits and Fitstables to determine the actual dimensions for the hole and shaft.

SHAFT - Nominal diameter = .625


193

Purchased Items

Specification Control drawingsare used to assure purchaseditems meet the needs of theproduct.

For standard items, specificationcontrol drawings are supplied bya manufacturer.

When special parts must bepurchased, a “Spec” drawing may be created by the person needingthe part. Spec drawings are sentto vendors for bids.

Note: Use these drawings tomodel the parts for theassembly.

*Hardware items - nuts, bolts,pins, etc. do not need specialdrawings.


194

Notes

Detail Drawings IronCAD V9

195

Detail Drawings

Drawing Enviornment - Views

Insert Regular Views

Sectional View

Detail (Enlarged) View

Auxiliary View

General View (Custom View)

Broken View

Update single viewUpdate All Views

Drawing Sheet Sizes

USA (Inches) Metric (Millimeters)

A-Size 8.5 x 11 A4 210 x 297B-Size 11 x 17 A3 297 x 420C-Size 17 x 22 A2 420 x 594D-Size 22 x 34 A1 594 x 841E-Size 34 x 44 A0 841 x 1189

Note:Some printers will not print if set to a metric size andUSA size paper is in the hopper.

Drawing

Creation

Auxiliary

Views

Sectional

Views

Drawing

Enviornment

Dimensioning

Title

Blocks

Scene

Enviornment

Drawing

Enviornment

Scene

Enviornment

Drawing

Enviornment

Custom

Section

Lines

Center LinesDimensioning

Standards

Placing

Dimensions

Standard

Sizes

Custom

Title

Blocks

Text

Font & Height

Decimal

Places

Isometric

Dimensioning

Tolerances &

Special

Symbols

Scene

Enviornment

Drawing

Enviornment

2D

Drawings

English Units

Metric Units

Formatting

Views

Adding

Special

Views

View

Plane

View

Creation

Cutting

Plane

View

Creation

Leader Lines

and Notes.

Offset

Section

Editing

Dimensions

Moving

Dimensions

IronCAD V9 2D Drawings

196

Modelsmust be saved before creatingdrawings.

From the File pop-down menu select Drawing.

Drawing formatting for USAstandard inch drawings wasdiscussed in Chapter 1 usingWorkspaces (English).

Workspaces (Metric) provides twodisplay options:

• Metric Dimensions withEuropean view locations.A-1 (largest-horizontal) to A-4 (smallest-vertical).

• Metric Dimensions withUSA view locations.A Size to D Size.

A4 to A0 Drawings

Selecting one of the Europeanstandard forms presents adifferent format for viewlocations.

• Front View is the keyview.

• Top View is below theFront.

• Right View is to the leftof the Front.

2D Drawings

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197

An A-4 Metric layoutis shown. Notice theview locations.

This is the standard formost of the world. TheUSA and a few othercountries use the viewlocations shownpreviously.

Note:Even if a part ismodeled using English units, it may bedimensioned usingMetric units by usingone of the Metricdrawing templates.Units conversion isautomatic.

An A Size Metric titleblock was used tocreate this drawing.Notice the views are inthe USA standardlocations. Thedimensions are Metric.

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198

Inserting Special Views

Isometric views are rather rigid asfar as the way the pictorial vieworientation is presented. Additionalpictorial views may be inserted into a drawing to provide betterinformation about a part.

Notice the “Optimized” view to the right shows more shape about theV-Pulley.

General View Icon (Special View)

General View Dialog Box

• Go back to the Scene for thepart or assembly.

• Rotate the view there to thedesired picture.

• Go to the Drawing View.• Select the General View icon.• Fine tune the picture using the

controls at the right.• OK to insert the picture.

Detail View(Enlarged View)

• Click center point.• Set circle size.• Finish• Position new view.

• Right click.Select Properties

• Set Scale andother properties.

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199

Auxiliary Views

Auxiliary Views are used to showthe true shape or size of features.Dimensions must be placed on thetrue view - never on a foreshortened element. Auxiliary views will be at an angle to the regular front, top,side view arrangement.

Auxiliary Views - SceneEnviornment

• In the scene view select the Look At Face icon.

• Turn off Perspective.

Look At Faceicon

Perspectiveicon

Auxiliary Views - DrawingEnviornment

• Place the regular views.• Select the Auxiliary View

icon.

• Select the angled line in theside view to define the viewdirection.

• Move theAuxiliary Projection Lineaway from the side view.

• Click the Finnish View icon.• Flip Direction if necessary.

FlipDirection

FinishView

Pick line to set auxiliaryview direction

AuxiliaryProjectionLine

IronCAD V9 Auxiliary Views

200

The finished auxiliary view isshown. On a detail drawing, move the views further apart to applydimensions.

• Right click the auxiliaryview and turn on hiddenlines.

A few dimensions have been placed. In the auxiliary view, truedimensions have been placed on theangled features.

Dimensions must be placed wherethe true shape shows. Do Notdimension foreshortened views.

Rotating Center Lines

• Right click the center line.• Select Properties.• Set the rotation angle.

Secondary Auxiliary Views

A second auxiliary view maybe projected from a firstauxiliary.__Auxilairy C-C was createdto see the edge of the obliquesurface.__ Auxiliary D-D was createdlooking perpendicular to theedge of the oblique surface tosee the true size of the surface.

Dimensions are placed to show the true location of the hole.

Sectional Views IronCAD V9

201

Sectional Views

Sectional Views - SceneEnviornment

• Select the object• Pick Section View from the

top menu.• Pick a point on the object for

the cut.• From the menu bar select the

cutting plane direction.• Click the Define Section tool.

This will place the cuttingplane on the model.

• Adjust the view direction ifneeded.

• Click the Finish icon

• Right click the cutting planeand select Hide.

Dialog Box:

DefineSectionTool

Cutting PlaneDirection

Hide, hides the cuttingplane.

Suppress, suppressesthe section view andreturns the view tonormal.

Reverse directionchanges the half of theobject that remains.

Create Section Profile or Geometry definesthe cut area for use inmodeling.

Section views created in the Sceneenviornment cannot be transferred to thedrawing enviornment.

IronCAD V9 Sectional Views

202

Sectional Views - DrawingEnviornment

• Start a drawing.• Set the basic views.• Pick the Section View icon.

• On the session bar select avertical cutting plane.

• Place the cutting plane at thecenter of the part.

• Finish the session.• Reverse the view direction if

needed.• Place the section view.• Place center lines.

Hatch Styles Template

Note: A Hatch Styles Template isavailable with additional styles loaded.This template does not have border lines drawn.

Hatch styles may be created and saved with a standardtemplate.


203

Offset Section View

• Set the cutting plane line as wasdone in the previous example.

• Pick the Stagger Section Cuticon.

• Select the small hole on the front face.

• Drag the offset line down asneeded.

Crosshatch Lines

The angle of the crosshatch lines andthe line pattern may be changed.

• To change the angle of thecrosshatch lines, right click onthe lines and set the angle in theHatched Region Properties box.

Note:On most drawing templates only the Standard Style forcrosshatch patterns is available. Special styles must becreated on each drawing.

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204

Crosshatch Styles

New styles may becreated by selectingthe Named Stylesicon and creating anew Hatch Pattern.

• Pop downNamed Styleand selectHatch.

• Click CreateNew Style

• Input a name for the newstyle.

• Click Modify Properties.

This new pattern will require two overlays.

• Set the first overlay asshown

• Click New Overlay


205

• Set Overlay 2 as shown.

• Save the new hatch style.

• Right click on the crosshatch lines on the drawing and setthe pattern to Steel.

Aluminum Crosshatch Lines

• Set Overlay 1 as above.

• Set Overlay 2 to a 135degree angle.

• Pick Hatch LinestyleOverlay Properties and setto dashed.

Note:Drawing templates may have Hatch styles stored.

IronCAD V9 Dimensioning

206

Dimensioning

Dimensioning standards exist for:

• USA - ANSI -Inch and Metric

• Europe - ISO - Metric• Japan - JIS

These standards are associated tothe drawing sheets. IronCADprovides the basic setup for eachtype of dimensioning.

Before dimensioning a part it isbest to change the default settingsto meet the needs of each drawing.

Pick the Styles iconor pop down EditSt

• Select Dimensioning Styles• Select the standard to

Modify.

Tolerances on Dimensions - General

Every dimension has a tolerance. (Unless marked max, min, ref,etc). Because no size can be perfect,the designer must indicate howmuch variation is acceptable. Forgeneral - non critical- dimensionsthe tolerances may be designatedby the number of decimal placesin the dimension. A ToleranceBlock is shown on each detaildrawing.

Typical tolerances for ANSI inch measurements

Dimensioning IronCAD V9

207

Showing too many decimal places ona non critical dimension wouldincrease the cost of producing the partunnecessarily.

IronCAD dimensions may default totoo many decimal places. Setting thenumber of places before starting todimension avoids having to changeeach dimension one at a time.

Center-to-center dimensions arecritical. Other dimensions are shownrequiring less accuracy. This wouldreduce the cost but not effect the useof the part.

Tip:Dimensions will align if you click on a previous dimension as you place anew dimension.

Setting Decimal PlacesFor Dimensions

• Select the Measuretab.

• Set Precision to the preferred number of decimal places:Inches = 2Metric = 0for non-criticalsizes.

Note:To change a singledimension:Right click a dimension.Pick Properties.Select Measure.

(Continued from previous page)


208

Text Font and Height

The Font tab allowssetting of text properties.

Explore the other tabs tobecome familiar with theother settings that effectdimension placement and appearance.

Placing Centerlines

IronCAD will draw crossedcenterlines on circles and linearcenterlines at the axis of acylinder. Dimensions may beplaced from the centerlineendpoints.

Zoom in close to placecenterlines on small circles.

Centerlines - Linear

• Pick the Centerline icon• Move the cursor into the

center area of the cylinder.A centerline will appear.

• Click to set.• Pull the ends to set the

length.

Centerlines - Window Select

• Use for non-circular view.

Centerlines - Circular HolePattern(Bolt Circle)

• Zoom in.• Click each of the outer

6 circles in the pattern.• Finish the pattern.

Choose LinearCenterline.Move pointer to center area

Hole PatternCenterline.Click all 6 smallcircles.

LinearCenterline

Window SelectCenterline


209

SmartDimension. Use this icon whenever possible. It combines many dimension placements.Use with the Tab key to select from many directional options.

Linear Horizontal.

Linear Vertical.

Radius. Click arc. Move cursor to see placement options.

Diameter. Click circle. Move cursor to see placement options.

Angular dimensions. Click two lines. Move cursor to see placement options.

Ordinate dimensions. 1. Click Origin. 2. Click dimension locations.

Baseline dimensions. 1. Click Origin. 2. Click dimension locations.

Ordinate Dimensions

Many times these dimensionsare used on sheet metal partswhich have many holespunched. Avoiding dimensionlines and arrows makes adrawing less cluttered.

Baseline Dimensions

Parts made by NumericalControl may be dimensionedfrom a Baseline. All featuresare related back to one axis.

Baseline


210

Feature Control Frame. Use for Geometric Dimensioning.

Datum Feature. Use for Geometric Dimensioning.

Datum Target. Use for Geometric Dimensioning.

Bill of Material.

Bubble Callout.

Leader Line and Text.

Surface Texture Symbol.

Weld Symbol.

Dimension Reference Line.

Leader Lines and Symbols

Leader Line and Text

Selecting this icon displays amenu of special symbols.

These symbols may be addedto notes and specialdimensions.

Surface Roughness Symbol

IronCAD provides dialogboxes for populating specialsymbols.

In the last chapter weldingsymbols were formatted.


211

Editing DimensionText

• Right click adimension

• PickProperties

• Select the tabyou wish toedit.

Note:To change text height highlight the textthen set new height,font, etc.

DimensionTolerance

Click the Tolerancetab. Set form andvalues.

Reference Dimension

(Value is enclosed inparenthesis).


212

Edit Dimension Location

Click a dimension. Holddown the left mouse buttonand drag the dimension ortext to the new location.

SmartDimension

SmartDimension will place mostof the dimensions on a drawing.This option will automaticallyrecognize most types ofgeometry.

Dimension from a circle center:

• Hold down the shift key.Click the circle.This will place thedimension to the center.

• Press the Tab key to selectthe dimension direction.

Angle Dimension

• Hold down the shift key.Select each line.

• Click to set the dimensionlocation.

Silhouette Edge Dimension

The contour line (silhouette edge) may be dimensioned by holdingdown the shift key wile selectingthe diameter (1.575) distance.

• Line lengths• Distance between points• Diameter• Radius• Angles

On some constructions, pressthe Tab key to cycle betweenplacement options.

Isometric Dimensioning IronCAD V9

213

Isometric Dimensioning

Isometric dimensions are rarely usedfor production drawings. They may beused for illustrations and simpleconsumer instruction manuals.

Dimensions for isometric drawingsmust start from the SceneEnviornment.

• Place SmartDimensions andConstraint dimensions on themodel.

• Right click and mark eachdimension:Transfer to Drawing.

• Marked dimensions will have“>” appended.

• Create a drawing. The markeddimensions will transfer to thedrawing.

• Right click each dimension andselect:Move to Another View.

• Click the pictorial view.

If the dimension orientation needsto be changed, move the dimensionto one of the regular views thenback to the pictorial.

New Feature in Vesion 7 IronCAD

Dimensions may also be placed directly on a true isometric view using theregular dimensioning tools. Views thatare not true isometric views will notshow correct values.

Angular dimensions display as the truespace dimension (not the apparentangle dimension) in the Isometricview.

IronCAD V9 2D Shape/Symbol Catalogs

214

2D Shape/Symbol Catalogs

Catalogs of 2D shapes and symbols may be created inthe Drawing enviornment. Much like catalogs for 3Dobjects the shape is drawn using the 2D drawingtools. Individual lines and arcs are grouped. Thegroup is then dragged into a catalog.

Sample catalogs are provided. A listing is shown.

Catalogs are created using the Catalog pop-down.Catalogs are saved and loaded using the Catalogmenu.

Many hunderds of shapes and symbols are in use forArchitectural and Engineering drawings.

Shapes and symbols for paper drawings were often placed using plastic templates. The templates hadcutouts for the symbols wide enough for a pencil point. Drafters could quickly draw multiple symbolsusing the templates without taking time to draw each line or arc using tools.

A good way to create shapes for CADD 2D symbols is to use the same physical size from thosetemplates. Some symbols like piping, electrical, logic do not need to be drawn to a specific scale.These symbols are usually drawn on a 1/10 inch grid so each symbol is about .7 inch in size.

Architectural symbols for furniture, fixtures and construction items are commonly drawn using a scaleof 1/4" = 1' - 0" or 1/8" = 1' - 0".

2D Shape/Symbol Catalogs IronCAD V9

215

Grids for Symbols

Whether drawing symbols or placingsymbols, grids are needed to controlplacement, end connections and size.

Pop down Tools ... GridTurn on the GridSet the Grid Spacing

Pop down Tools ... SnapSet Snap to Grid

Placing symbols from a catalog.Drag the symbol to the grid. Add linesto complete the diagram. In this example a 1/10 " grid was used.

Rotate symbols: Select the symbol

• Right Click select Properties• Click Position Tab• Set Orientation as shown.

Use 90, 180, 270 as needed.

X

Y

Z

Axis

Symbol Catalogs - Creating __ Set the Grid and Snap __ Draw the shape. __ Window Select the lines and arcs__ Pop down Shape Menu__ Select Group__ Drag and drop the Group to acatalog

IronCAD V9 2D Shape/Symbol Catalogs

216

Problem 1.

A. Model the part.

B. Create a detail dimensioneddrawing with auxiliary view.Dimension the “T” slot in theauxiliary view. Include atolerance block.

T-slot is perpendicular tosurface “A”.

A

IronCAD Isometric Dimensions

Problem 2.

A. Model the part as a solid asshown in Fig 1.

Shell the part from the bottomsurfaceto a thickness of .125 asshown in Fig 2.

B. Create a detail drawing with top view offset section M-N.Dimension the part. Include a tolerance block.

Problem 3.

Recall assigned problems fromthe Inclined and Obliquechapters.

A. Fully dimension the objectsusing correct form. Print.B. Create Isometric Drawingsand dimension. Print.

Fig 1. Fig 2.

Sheet Metal IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

217

Sheet Metal

Sheet

Metal

Sheet Metal

Settings

Sheet Metal

Catalog

Editing

Handles

Creating

Parts

Reliefs

Drawings

Corner

Tools

...Options

Menu

Stock

ShapesFlanges Deforms Cutouts

Shape View

Sizebox ViewStock Shape Bend Shape

Corner

Relief

Stock Flange

Deforms

and

Cutouts

Tooling

Properties

Bend

UnfoldingFlat

Pattern

Set

Material

Most work with sheet metal shapes must use items from theSheet Metal Catalog. Selections in the catalog are colorcoded to designate the use of the item

All models start from the Stock object. Other catalog itemsadd to or modify the stock shape.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Sheet Metal

218

Sheet metal parts are modeled in their formed shape. From the flat Stock, flanges may be added andother shaping done. When the model is complete a flat pattern is created. The flat pattern size iscomputed along the neutral axis of the part. If corners at bends were sharp, the metal would tear orbreak so a bend radius must be incorporated into the shape.

On flat sections the neutral axis is at 50% of the metal thickness. Because most metals stretch more than they compress, the neutral axis in the bend area is less than 50%. Creating the flat pattern involvescomplex calculations that draw the correct lengths.

Sheet Metal Settings

Standard bend radius formany materials andthicknesses is stored underthe Stock tab.

• Pick the Tools popdown menu.

• Select Options.• Click the Stock tab.

• The Sheet Metal tabalso has settings.

New materials and customsettings may be added to thechart.

Before modeling a part,pick the correct materialand thickness from thechart.

Metric Sheet MetalSettings

For Metric parts, the metalgages stay the same.Material thickness and bendradius are given in

Not all items are shown


219

Sheet Metal Catalog

Sheet metal parts must start withStock.

1. Drag the Stock icon to the Scene.

• Edit base stock size. (See nextsection).

2. Add Bends (Flanges)

• Bends are set to 90 degrees butthe actual angle may bechanged as needed.

• Select the type of bend neededfor the design.

• Select the upper or lowermid-point of the stock edge.This determines the benddirection.

3. Add Deforms

• Place using the TriBALL orSmartDimensions.

• Re-size as needed.

4. Add Cutouts.

• Place using the TriBALL orSmartDimensions.

• Re-size as needed.

Sheet Metal Filletand Chamfer tools.Standard tools do not work. (Cyan)

Standard bends.(Flanges). (Yellow).

Three types areneeded to meetdifferent designrequirements.

The Hem is a 180degree sharp bend.(Metal may crack orbreak).A Seam has a smallinside radius.

Bend WithoutAutosize is a specialcase of the Out Bend.


220

Deforms and Cutouts may besized once the default shape isinserted and located on the sheet metal part. A Pop-out is shown.

Not all items are shown

Deforms are shown ingreen. They stretch themetal. Some options cutas well as stretch.

Deforms will show onflat pattern views butcannot be flattened.

Cutouts are shown incyan color. They arespecial punch shapeswhich create holes insheet metal parts.

TopView

BottomView

Tooling Properties dialogs - Right click object


221

Editing Sheet Metal StockShape

After the material and thicknessare set, drag the stock shape intothe scene.

• Click the stock shape to theIntellishape level.By default, Shape editing is selected.Click the Shape Icon toselect Sizebox.

• Set new length and widthvalues for the stock shape.Notice that the height isfixed and cannot bechanged.

Adding Bends to a Sheet Metal Shape

• Select the type of bend to add.

• Select the edge to add the bend to.

Sheet Metal Bend Types

• Bend. Adds bend radius + metal thicknessto length of stock part.

In Bend. Addsmetal thicknessto length of stock part.(Length of stock is shortened toaccommodate bend radius).

• Out Bend.Basic part stays the same length.(Length of stock is shortened toaccommodate bend radius + metal thickness).

Bend added toupper edge.Flange goes up.

Bend added tolower edge.Flange goesdown.

Length ofStock


222

Flange StructureFlanges consist of two separateparts. Each part has specialediting tools. Shape is default.

• Bend. The curved portion.Edit Shape.Edit Relief.

• Additional stock.Edit Shape.Edit Sizebox.

Bend EditingThere are many options. Handlesmay change depending onprevious edits.

• Click the bend until the 4edit selections show.Move with mouse orright click for dialog box.

Shape edit mode

• Click one more time.Shape edit mode isinvoked.

Bend angle, bend radiusand bend length edithandles appear.

Relief edit mode

• Click the shape icon.Relief edit mode isinvoked.

Bend length and bendrelief edit handles appear.

Bend

Additional Stock

Change lengthhorizontally.

Change angle offlange

Base Stock

Change angle of base stock

Move base stock +bend up or down.

Radiusedithandle

BendLength

CornerRelief

BendLength


223

Click once on the inner bend reliefhandle to create the standard bendrelief. This notch is needed in orderto form the flange without distortingthe base shape.

Click innerbend reliefhandle

Roundedrelief

Corner Relief

Two outbend flanges were added toa base shape. This was done topreserve the base outside dimension.

The corners do not meet properly.Two edits are needed.

1. Edit the Add Stock Corners.

2. Edit the Bend faces.

Click each flange to IntelliShapemode.

• Drag the Add Stock facesuntil the inner edges touch.

Click the Bend to Shape Mode.

• Click the Shape icon to Relief mode.

• Drag the bend faces as shown.

Drag faces to makeinner edges touch.

Drag bend faces totangent line corner.

A toolbar is available for sheet metal work including a close corner option.


224

Setting Bend Height

It is often necessary to maintain anoverall (outside to outside) flangedistance.

• Click the Add Stock flangeto Shape mode.

• Right click the shape handle.• Select

Edit Distance From Point.Select Point.

• Place the point to measurefrom at the lower tangentpoint of the base stock asshown.

• An Edit Distance dialog boxsets the height from thebottom of the stock to the topof the flange.

Edit Distance From Pointgreatly simplifies setting the correctAdd Stock height.

Otherwise, a calculation would beneeded:

(From Tools ...Options … Stock setting)Stock thickness = .050Bend radius = .050

Add Stock Height = 1.00 -(base stock thickness + bend radius)

= 1.00 - (.050 + .050) = .90

Place referencepoint on loweredge

Add StockHeight


225

Tutorial - Sheet Metal Box

Create the box and lid shown.Box outside dimensions =

4.00 x 3.00 x 1.00Lid must fit over box. Lid height = .50Use 5052-16 Aluminum

1. Pick Tools ...Options ....StockSelect 5052-16

Box:2. Drag Stock shape into scene.Click to IntelliShape mode.Set Size = 4.00 x 3.00

To preserve the outside dimensionsuse OutBends on the top midpoints of the base stock.

3. Place 4 OutBends With Stock onthe top edges of the stock.

• Set the flange height to 1.00.

• Move each face of the basestock back to the tangent line.

• Edit the corner reliefs asshown earlier.

To avoid problems unfolding:Leave a slight gap between the lines.002 to .008 works O.K..

Move edge of base stock back to tangent line. 4 sides.

Totalheight offlange =1.00

Move edge of basestock back to tangentline


226

4. Model the lid.Start with 4.00 x 3.00 stock.

• Add a InBend flange at eachedge.(InBend is used so the top will fit over the bottom section.Inside to inside must be4.00 x 3.00).

• Set the total flange height to.50.

• Resize each edge of the basestock back to the tangent linefor each bend.

• Edit the corner reliefs.Set the inside edge to insideedge alignment for each face.Leave a slight gap betweenthe inner face lines.

Move edge of base stockback to bend tangent line.

5. Assemble theparts. Use theTriBALL to moveparts into place.

Be sure the lidexactly fits over thebottom.

Save.


227

Flat PatternCreate drawings for the bottom and lid.

• Select the lid at Part Level.• Click Tools...

Unfold SheetmetalPart

Note: If the parts will not unfold, be sureto leave a slight gap at each cornerwhere the flanges meet.

• Start a Drawing.• Place the flat pattern on an “A”

size sheet and scale the view 1=1.Show flat view and pictorial.

• Refold the part and saveeverything.


228

Conical Steetmetal Parts

Operations on Conical Stock arevery limited at present. Cuts may be created and flat pattern views maybe placed on drawings.

Conical Sheetmetal Sizing]

Click to Intellishape Mode. RightClick and select IntellishapeProperties.

Upper and lower radius are set tothe middle of the metal thickness in this example.

Upper and lower extents aremeasured from the middle of thepart. Total height is 8.

A full 360 degree cone is created.


229

Conical Sheetmetal Cutting

Regular Intellishapes from thecatalogs may be used to cut ConicalSheetmetal.

• Drag a shape from acatalogdo not touch theconical shape.

• Use the TriBall to move itinto position.

• Click on the Conical part,hold down shift and click onthe cylinder. (Sequence isimportant.)

• Pop down Tools and select Cut Sheetmetal Part.

• Delete the cylinder. This willleave a cutout hole.

• Select the Conical Part.Pop down ToolsClickUnfold Sheetmetal Part

The unfolded view may be used tocreate a Flat pattern drawing.


230

Problem 1.A. Model the part.B. Create a FlatPattern drawing 1=1 on an “A” size title


231

Problem 2. Create the parts shown.Bolt together with #6-32UNC x .375bolt, lock washer and jam nut. (4 reqd.)5052-16 Aluminum.Create flat pattern drawings for parts.

Width = 2.00

Step 1. Model this part as shown.

Step 2. Add .50 Flangesas shown. Include corner reliefs.


232

Step 3. Putholes in flanges as shown.

Step 4. Model the 2”wide piece to the samesize as the 1st part asshown.

Step 5. Place holes inpart 2 using holes inpart1 as a guide.

Place the hole at random in part 2. Use the TriBall to move the hole to the bottom center of theexisting hole. Set the correct hole size.

Step 6. Place bolts, lock washers andnuts to boltassembly together.

Mechanism Mode IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

233

Many designs include parts that must assemble, link together and provide motion from one part toanother. IronCAD 9 includes some of the tools needed to apply motion to one part and observe thereactions on other parts.

IronCAD 9 includes a new Tool: Mechanism Mode.

Moving parts in unison requires that parts be constrained to each other. 2D drawings need constraintsso changes in the layout result in a predictable change behavior. The same is true for mechanisms. A"smart" set of constraints will cause parts to move in a real world manner.

Assembly constraints need to be applied in a logical sequence much like assembling the actual parts.While some parts must move, other parts must remain fixed so additional constraints will ground partsto prevent motion.

A Catalog of parts for the tutorials is available for download from www.engr-tech.comLook for IronCAD version 9 textbook.

Mechanism Mode

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Mechanism Mode

234

Positioning Parts -Tools menu

Previous chapters used the Tri-Ballto move parts in relation to otherparts. A second tool is available for quick positioning.

Mate and Align Positioning Tool

Located on the Tools Menu. This isquick positioning method using themouse to point locations. Largearrows show locations as the mousemoves over key points.

These commands align parts but donot "lock" locations. Parts may stillmove in un-predictable ways due tolater changes.

Positioning Constraints These do more to lock parts intolocation.


235

Mate. This will brig flat surfaces face to face.

Align. This will bring surfacesedge to edge.

Three constraints were needed tofully position the two parts.

The scene browser shows theconstraints that have beenapplied. Three constraints areneeded in this example to fullyconstrain the blocks.

Additional constraints wouldover constrain the blocks.

Constraints may be deleted andre-applied to meet otherconditions.

Concentric constraint.

Pin is co-linear with hole.

Align is used to fully position theparts.

Scene browser shows pin alignedto block.

First pickMoves object toSecond pick.

Constraints havebeen applied onPart 7in relation toPart 8


236

Right-click on the Alignconstraint and a option to edit the offset diatance is available.

In this example the pin align face has been offset fromthe block face by .500

The faces also could havebeen positioned using theDistance constrain option.

Perpendicular constraint

The two surfaces areperpendicular in space.Additional constraints areneeded to fully position theblocks.

Parallel constraint

Distance constraint

Angle constraint. Parts need not intersect.

Tanget constraint.


237

Cam-FollowerConstraint.

The end of the pushrod is constrained to the cam surface. As the camrotates, the pushrod will oscillateback and forth (with additionalconstraints).

Tutorial - Animating Assemblies

The crank,wheel and drive pin areposititioned but free to rotate.Turning the crank rotates these parts.

The link is positioned to the wheelface and constrained concentric to the drive pin on one end and constrainedconcentric to the rod-pin on the otherend.

The rod is constrained concentric tothe two supports.

Turning the crank causes themechanism to operate in a "realworld" manner.

The operation can be captured as amovie.

These demonstration modules will be modeled:

Camfollower

ToggleMechanism

Link and rod


238

Build ordownload thefollowing parts:

Base part.Build the frameshown. All partsare Unioned toform one part.

Save as Base

Crank Assembly

Model thesections shown.Union into onepart.

Save asCrankPart


239

DriveWheel

DrivePlate

Push Rod

Push Rod with Pin

Link

Pin

These parts will be used in several assembliesto constrain parts and demonstrate linkedmotions.

Next, we will be working with assemblies. Besure to save all models to the same folder.Tutorial Continues next page....


240

Assembly 1. Cam Follower

__ Open the Base model.__ Save As CamFollower

Create an Assembly.__ Click Base and click theassembly icon.__ Rename the assembly

CamFollower.__ Ground the Base.Right-click on the base and select

Fixed in Parent.

Fixed in Parent icon

Parent is the CamFollowerAssembly so the Base will befixed in that assembly.

__ Insert the CrankPart into thescreen. File ... InsertPart/Assembly

__ Click Constrain.First step.__ Select Concentric constraint. __ Pick the round shaft on thecrank.__ Zoom in if needed and pick the hole surface on the shaft support.

Second step.__ Select Mating.__ Rotate the view if needed andzoom in. Pick the inboard face ofthe square shaft.__ Rotate and zoom again ifneeded and pick the inboard faceof the shaft support. SAVE.

The crank part should constrainedto rotate freely without movingfrom side to side.

Next: Check crank rotation....

The crank must be constrained concentric to the hole in the shaftsupport (X and Z directions) and aligned to the flat face of theshaft support (Y).The crank should turn freely.

Note:You can select a viewcommand while in themiddle of another command.Select the view command,change the view andde-select the view command.

Shaft Support


241

__ Select Tools...Mechanism Mode

This will turn on Mechanism Mode. Itwill be invoked until the green O.K. dot or the "X" is selected.

__ Click the crank handle.

__ Pull the handle around to verify itworks correctly.

If everything moves then you need toGround the base.

SAVE.

__ Insert the Cam. Add to Assembly.We used a square shaft and hole toassure a driving force between thecrank and Cam. A round hole and shaft would not allow constraints to transferforce. See Note at right....

__ Turn on Mechanism Mode. Partlinking constraints should be appliedwith Mechanism Mode turned on.

__ Constrain two flats on the cam hole to two flats on the shaft.__ Constrain the outer face of the camto the outer end of the shaft.

__ Insert the Pushrod__ Concentric Constrain the rod toone of the rod support holes.

__ Cam Follower constrain the end of the rod to the cam surface.

__ Turn the handle. Pushrod shouldfollow cam surface. SAVE.

Note: The surface of the cam was created as a sweptsurface. If the cam is unioned to the shaft the "sweptsurface" definition may be lost and the cam-followerconstraint will not work.


242

Make a Movie.__ Once the mechanism is workingcorrectly, select the crank part at partlevel. Check the part anchor to verifythe height-length-depth orientation.__ drop a motion on the crank from the Animation Catalog. In this example,Height Spin is selected.

__Turn on Mechanism Mode and the SmartMotions toolbar.

__ Check to see that the motion iscorrect under SmartMotion control.

__ Click File ... Export ....Animation__ Select different Frame width,height etc. if needed.__ Click Options

__ Set options as needed.Video 1 format works well with manyviewers.

SAVE

End of Tutorial.


243

Problem 1.Create a link assembly containing:

BaseCrankPartDriveWheelPushRodWithPinLinkPin(s) as needed.

__ Be sure to apply link constraints withMechanism Mode turned on.__ Verify correct motion.__ Make a movie.__ Retract the rod all the way back. Selectthe rod and wheel at Part level.Click Tools ... Check Interference.

Problem 2. Toggle Mechanism

This example has a limited range of motion. Toggle mechanisms are often used toprovide positive clamping forces. Thepopular Vise Grip tm pliar is an example.

Just as the center pin goes "overcenter" alarge force on the pushrod is generated. If astop is placed under the link, a large reverse force on the pushrod cannot unlock theclamp.

__ Assemble using:Base, CrankPart, Link, Pin(s)PushRodWithPin, DrivePlate.

__ Verify motion. SAVE.

STOP

Commercial Toggle Clampwww.carrlane.com


244

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Importing / Exporting IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

245

Importing / Exporting

Importing

and

Exporting

Drawing Files

Solid

Models

.DWG

Format

.DXF

Format

Bitmap

Formats

Bitmap

Formats

ACIS

Formats

Parasolid

Formats

Other

Formats

The ability to interchange models anddrawings with other CADD software isextremely important in industry. Manycompanies use several CADD systemsbecause:

• They may be making the transistion from one CADD system to another.

• Customers may need to send orreceive drawings in another CADDformat.

IronCAD has the most extensive set oftools available for translating to andfrom other file formats.

Most CADD software is written around a“core” modeler which is purchased from a vendor. Two popular “core” modelers are:

Parasolids: SolidWorks, Solid Edge,Unigraphics, IronCAD .....

ACIS: AutoCAD, Microstation, CATIA,IronCAD ....

Notice that IronCAD uses both coremodelers!

Individual parts or single parts in an assembly maybe exported.

• Select the part at part level. Part must beselected or the dialog below will not appear.

• Click File ..... Export• Click Part• Select the export format.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Importing / Exporting

246

Importing and Exporting 2D Drawing Files

.dxf and .dwg format - AutoCAD

2D files are usually easier to move from one CADD software to another. Almost all CADD systemsrecognize the AutoCAD “drawing exchange format” file system. (.dxf) file extension. DXF files arealso used as a way to send geometric data to machine tools for sheet metal layout and 2D drillingoperations. AutoCAD saves work as a native .dwg file. Some CADD software will also read and writethese files.

These file types save the start, end, center, etc. data for the lines and circles on a drawingin at text orscipt format. This means that other programs can use the same data in an intelligent, editable format.

This drawing was exported to AutoCAD using the .dwg file format. Some problems with text are seenbecause the text font used by IronCAD was not configured for AutoCAD. (This is an easy problem tofix).

As a test, the same drawing was exported from IronCAD and imported into AutoCAD and the resultswere nearly identical.

Importing / Exporting IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

247

Import / Export Bitmap Files

These files are used forpublication and static typedisplay. The file only transmits apicture (bit by bit) of thedrawing. There is no intelligenceor editable content. There aremany bitmap file types in use soit is necessary to check thereceiving program to find anacceptable format.

IronCAD will export bitmap files from both the modelingenviornment and the drawingenviornment.

.Avi Export Animation

Animation files are exported as a series of 2D bitmap frames. The.avi file type is very commonand is used for Windows MediaPlayer, other animation playersand for internet animation.

Animation may be saved as other bitmap filetypes from the popdown menu.

Solids Import /Export formats

An industry (also international)standard for file translation isbeing attempted - IGES (InterimGraphics Exchange Standard).This format should be acceptablebetween all major CADDsoftwares.

Stereolithography files are usedto create plastic, wax orplaster-type models directly from CADD objects.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE Importing / Exporting

248

3D Solids - Import and Export

Moving solid objects designed onone CADD software to anotherCADD software is difficult and mayresult in lost features and parthistory.

Since IronCAD used both the ACISand the Parasolids core modelers,there is a greater probability ofsuccess in file translation. It ispossible to load an ACIS (AutoCAD) model into IronCAD and export it toa Parasolids (Unigraphics,SolidWorks, Solid Edge) programwith good results!

The part shown below started as an AutoCAD model. Itwas imported into IronCAD (ACIS 4.0) and used in thisbook then exported to Solid Edge (Parasolid 10 format).

Solid Edge Partenviornment.

IronCAD V9 & INOVATE

Index603

!1st angle 102D Construction Lines 842D Construction Toolbar. 652D Drawing Tools 64 - 712D Drawings 196 - 1982D Editing Toolbar 662D Layout Techniques 852D Shape 1632D Shape/Symbol Catalogs 214 - 2162D Shapes 813D curves 1653rd angle 10AA Size Metric title block 197A-4 Metric 197A4 to A0 Drawings 196A-4 to A-1 Drawings 196Accurate Sizes25Add Material 62Add New Path101Adding Bends - Sheet Metal Shape 221Adding text - Scene View 32Align 235Aligning Surfaces 52Aligning surfaces using the shift-key 113Angle constraint. 236Angle Dimension 212Animating Object Rotation 100Animation 95 - 108Arc Through a Point and Tangent to a Circle. 86Architectural 7Arrays and Patterns - TriBall 49 - 51Assemblies 176 - 194ASSEMBLY DRAWING 176Assembly Drawing - Creating 182Assembly Feature 186Assembly Feature 185Auxiliary Views - Drawing Enviornment 199Auxiliary Views - SceneEnviornment 199Axonometric view 97BB Spline Curve 89Baseline Dimensions 209Bearings 172Beveling Edges 189

249

Bill of Material - Bottom Up display 183Bill of Material - Editing 183Bill of Material Icon 182Bisect an angle 85Bubble Callouts - Placing 184CCamera Picker97Cam-FollowerConstraint 237Catalog … Open 81Catalogs 19Catalogs .... New 81Center Lines 90Centering alignment 53Centerlines - Circular Hole Pattern 208Centerlines - Linear 208Centerlines - Window Select 208chamfered 55Changing Dimension Settings 118Circle Tangent Construction icons 84Circular (Radial) Pattern 49Cold Formed Steel Shapes 174Complex Curved Surfaces 164 - 167Concentric constraint 235Conical Sheetmetal Cutting 229Conical Sheetmetal Sizing 228Conical Steetmetal Parts 228Constraints 72 - 78Constraints Toolbar 72Construction Geometry 65Construction Line Toggle 80Construction Lines 80Creating 2D outlines 62Creating Surface entity from part. 164Crosshatch Lines 203Crosshatch Styles 204curcumscribed polygon 87Cursor Location Reading 79DDatum Planes 15Decimal Inch 7Detail Drawing 177Detail Drawings 195Detail Drawings - Creating 181Detail View (Enlarged View) 198Dimension from a circle center 212Dimension Notes 121Dimension Style 119Dimension Tolerance 211


250


Dimensioning 117, 206 - 212Dimensioning Cylinders 150Distance constraint 236Divide a line 85Drafting machines 6Draw triangle - 3 sided given 85Drawing Copying 8Drawing Creation 28Drawing Enviornment - Views 195Drawing Enviornment - Views Icons 195Drawing Plotting 8Drawing Sheet Sizes 195Drawing Sheets - sizes 8Drawing vs Modeling 9Drawings - Placing Text 31Drawings - Placing Views 30EEdit 2D Cross Section61Edit Cross-Section 72Edit Dimension Location 212Editing SmartMotions 102Editing Dimensions 121Editing DimensionText 211Editing Using Handles 80Ellipse 88Ellipse Arc 88Euclidian Geometry - Locating Centers 86Exporting a Model Bitmap 33FFasteners 175filleted 55First Angle Projection10Flip Extrude Direction. 143Format Menu 63Fractional Inch 7Function Key 10 36GGears 173General View Icon 198Grids for Symbols 215HHatch Styles Template 202Helical Extrusions and Cutouts 162 - 163Helix: 173HELP 16 - 17Hole Shapes - Special 175Hot Formed Steel Shapes. 174I

251

Inclined Surface - Angle Specified. 128Inclined Surface -Offset Dimension Specified 129Inclined Surfaces 125 - 136Inovate - Printing Models 32inscribed polygon 87Inserting Special Views 198Intellishape Edit Mode 21Intellishape Modes 60IronCAD Features 11Isometric Dimensioning 213KKey Frames 103LLeader Lines and Symbols 210Length and Radius Constraints 82Linear Pattern 49LOAD 16Lofted Shapes 156 - 158Look At Icon (F7) 82MMain Screen 14Making Changes - Part Structure 131Mate 235Mate and Align Positioning Tool 234Mechanism Mode 233 - 244Metric 7Metric Sheet Metal Settings 218Mitering Corners. 189Modeling 9Modeling Sequence 151Modifying Edges 55 - 58Modifying Surfaces - TriBall 48NNamed Styles 118Normal Surfaces 109 - 124OObject Anchor100Object Color and Transparency 98Oblique Surfaces 137 - 148Oblique Surfaces - DimensioningMethods. 139Offset 80Offset Section View 203Orbit Camera 99Ordinate Dimensions 209Orthographic View Studies 105PParallel constraint 236Parameter Table 83


252


Parametric Design 83Part Mode 21Part Modes - editing levels 21Part Properties180Perpendicular constraint 236Perspective view 97Placing Center Lines 30Placing Centerlines 208Placing Dimensions 120Placing Objects 20Polygons 87Positioning Constraints 234Positioning Parts 234Printing from the Model Screen 33Project 3D Edges 96RRadial Pattern 50Rectangular Pattern 49Reference Dimension 211Remove Material 62Re-Orient to Global 37Reshaping Catalog Items 61Restoring Orientation 97Rotate symbols 215Rotating Center Lines 200Ruled Surface 167SSAVE 16Save as Part/Assembly 177, 181Scene Browser 56Secondary Auxiliary Views 200Sectional Views - Drawing Enviornment 202Sectional Views - Scene Enviornment 201Sectioning Parts 159 - 161Setting Decimal Places For Dimensions 207Shape Catalogs 81Shape Handle Editing 60Shape removal went the wrong direction 143Sheet Metal 217 - 232Sheet Metal - Flat Pattern 227Sheet Metal - Setting Bend Height 224Sheet Metal Stock Shape- Editing 221Sheet Metal Bend Editing 222Sheet Metal Bend Types 221Sheet Metal Catalog 219Sheet Metal Corner Relief 223Sheet Metal Flange Structure 222Sheet Metal Settings 218

253

Sheet Metal Tooling Properties 220Show Curve Dimensions 65Show Endpoints 66Show Length and Angle 66Show-Me animation 18Silhouette Edge Dimension 212Sizebox Handle Editing 60Smart Motion Wizard 101SmartDimension 212SmartPaint 98Snap 63Snap = Grid 63Spin Shapes 152 - 153Splitting the screen 124Stand Alone object 62Standard Views 97Starting IronCAD 12Suppress the tooling block 143Suppressing Shapes 56Surface Colors100Surface Roughness Symbol 210Surface-Edge-Vertex Edit Mode 21SurfaceToolbar 166Swept Shapes 154 - 155Symbol Catalogs - Creating 215TTangent Constructions 84Tanget constraint 236Tapering 51Text Font and Height 208Third Angle Projection 10Title Blocks 8Toggle Mechanism 243Tolerances on Dimensions - General 206Tooling Block 129Tooling Blocks - Oblique Surfaces 139Tools ... Check Interference 243Tools Catalog 171 - 175Transfering Dimensions to Drawings. 132Transparency 98TriBall36TriBall - Assembling parts 48Tri-Ball Commands 38TriBall Menu 43Tri-Ball Orientation Controls 40Tri-Ball Translation Controls 39TriBall Tutorial 1 41TriBall Tutorial 2 42


254


TriBall Tutorial 3 44Trim Curve 71Turn Datum Planes On/Off 13Tutorial - 2D Drawing Tools 73Tutorial - Animating Assemblies 237Tutorial - Creating a 2D Layout. 69Tutorial - Inclined Surfaces 130Tutorial - Inclined Surfaces Animation 133Tutorial - Lofted Shape 158Tutorial - Modeling Normal Surfaces113Tutorial - Modeling with Intellishapes 26Tutorial - Oblique Surface - Point and Two Angles Given 140Tutorial - Oblique SurfacesThree Points Given. 144Tutorial - Section View (Scene) 160Tutorial - Sheet Metal Box 225Tutorial - Spin Shape 153Tutorial - Swept Shape 155Tutorial - Table Assembly 178Tutorial - Table Assembly Part 2. 185Tutorial - When to sketch? 115UU - V Mesh Surface 167Units of Measure 7Using the Mouse - Left and Right Buttons 22VView (Camera) Commands 23Views of Objects 97WWeld Symbols184Wireframe Mode 98Workspace English 14Workspace Metric 14Workspaces (English) 196Workspaces (Metric) 196Workspaces (Metric) 196

255

ironcad 9 textbook

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ironcad v9

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secondary auxiliary views