Working with Imported CAD Data Using the Creo Flexible Modeling Extension

 

In a previous post, we discussed the Import Data Doctor capabilities within Creo Parametric, a task-based repair tool designed to repair, modify, or featurize geometry imported into Creo Parametric from external sources. But what if you’re looking to make further changes to your imported data? Such as editing the geometry?

Working with CAD data from multiple sources can be a difficult process as many CAD formats are incompatible. According to a PTC survey of over 7,000 manufacturers, 50% of people experience challenges importing models from other CAD tools. When models can’t be imported engineers and designers are forced to recreate them from scratch, which can be a slow and tedious process. Even when they are able to import models, our survey indicated that 60% of people find modifying them to be a challenge.

This is where the Creo Flexible Modeling Extension (FMX) can help. With Creo FMX, designers and engineers can reuse existing design data, add design intelligence, and easily modify the geometry.

Edit Imported Data Regardless of Source

With Creo Parametric, you can import data from both neutral file formats (STEP or IGES) or other CAD systems. From there you can use an array of selection tools to support fast and intelligent geometry selection, including shape-based selection capabilities. Creo FMX then allows you to make direct modifications to the imported geometry.

Using an intuitive 3D dragger, you can move the selected geometry to a new location and re-attach the geometry. Creo FMX ensures that any connected geometry such as rounds are handled without any issues. A number of other geometry editing capabilities are available including offset, substitute, mirror, and remove.

By using these geometric editing tools, you can add design intent that is missing from the imported data. Creo FMX also supports recognition and editing of patterns and symmetry, allowing you to add smart, parametric features to the “dumb” geometry. You can even redefine the pattern or edit the number of instances.

As you can see, the capabilities within Creo Parametric and the Creo Flexible Modeling Extension give you two significant benefits when working in a multi-CAD environment. First, you will save significant time and effort by eliminating this need to recreate non Creo models. Secondly, you will no longer struggle to modify imported models from other CAD tools.

Expert Insights for Anybody Working in the Multi-CAD World

Working in a Multi-CAD environment presents many challenges for design engineers—challenges that can impact your bottom line. If you’re looking for more insight and solutions, we recommend Multi-CAD Data, Unified Design, an eBook written by industry analyst, Chad Jackson.  

The eBook discusses the barriers to working productively in a multi-CAD environment. It also introduces new technologies (you especially should know about Unite technology, introduced with Creo 3.0) that help you overcome the limitations of working with disparate tools. Best of all, you can download the eBook free!

Download your copy of Multi-CAD Data, Unified Design now, and never fear a non-native file format again. 

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