Tips & Tricks: Stand-Alone Datum Feature Symbols in Creo 4.0

In Creo 4.0, we introduced a number of features to make using model-based definition more seamless. Among the changes: datum feature symbols can now be used as stand-alone annotations. You can even assign parameters, control characteristics, and more. Here’s how it works.

Create a Stand-Alone Datum Feature Symbol

To create a stand-along symbol, follow these steps:

1. Click Annotate > Datum Feature Symbol.
2. In the graphics area, select a reference, such as a surface, edge, or diameter.
3. Drag the pointer to change the length of the symbol’s leader.
4. Middle-click to place the symbol.

The symbol is added to the annotations group at the top of the model tree.

A newly created symbol shown in the model tree and the graphics area.

Assign Parameters to a Datum Feature Symbol

Symbols can have parameters, which help provide additional information about an object. To add a parameter, follow these steps:

1. In the graphics area, right-click the symbol.
2. Select Parameters. The Parameters dialog opens.
3. Add, remove, or edit parameters.

Use a Datum Feature Symbol as a Control Characteristic

Symbols can be designated as a control characteristic to help in planning downstream manufacturing processes. To designate a control characteristic, follow these steps:

1. In the graphics area, select the symbol.
2. In the ribbon, click Options.
3. Select Designate > Control Characteristics.

Semantic References

Symbols can have multiple semantic references. Just follow these steps:

1. In the graphics area, select the symbol.
2. In the ribbon, click References.
3. In the graphics area, select the reference geometry.

Adding a semantic reference to a symbol.

View Notifications

If a problem arises, the Notification Center will pop up in the lower right corner of the graphics area. Just click Open Notification Center to view a detailed list of issues.

Find Missing References

You can find missing references in the References dialog. Here’s how:

1. In the graphics area, select the symbol.
2. In the ribbon, click References.
3. Browse the References dialog to find missing references, which the system indicates with a yellow dot icon and highlights in red in the graphics area when they are selected.

A missing reference is found in the References dialog.

Watch the Demo

You can see a brief demo of these tips in the video below.

To learn more, read the PTC Creo Help Center page, Datum Feature Symbols as Standalone Annotations in Model-Based Definition. 

You'll find Creo 4.0 packed with breakthrough capabilities—on top of hundreds of core enhancements. Download The Best of Creo 4 today to make sure you discover “best of the best,” then link to some quick “how-to” articles and videos, so you can make the most of Creo 4.0 and start designing smarter.