Design in 2D
While building parts and products in 2D views is sufficient for some, many users need a 3D model for mass properties, interference-checking and visualization, for example. Current 3D tools (parametric and explicit) require a huge investment in learning to model, however, which can make even simple tasks hopelessly complex.
With SpaceClaim Professional 2008’s conceptual simplicity, people who are comfortable using 2D can now make an easy transition to 3D. They continue to work in 2D views while the system automatically provides the benefits of 3D modeling. The software lets engineers create and edit in “live” cross sections (both in a solid model and in the drawing space), taking advantage of SpaceClaim’s major modeling tools:
Work in 3D as easily as in 2D
SpaceClaim makes 3D accessible by letting you focus on your design, rather than on mastering the design software. You can create and modify the initial concept without knowing the final detailed design. This unprecedented level of design freedom makes it easy for anyone to work with a model, even one that was created by someone else. You change designs by directly selecting the shape and pulling it to a new location. The design adapts to the change in real time, based on what shape is selected and what operation is performed. This results in fast and flexible design changes, fewer and better design iterations and more productive work time.
Intuitive editing tools
Pull, Move, Fill, and Combine are intuitive editing tools that scale surfaces and solids to an exact value. You can replace and simplify the faces of designs. Blend points to 3D curves, guide curves, and take-off vector control. Fill edges, surfaces, faces, solids and sketch curves.
Sketch environment lets you create sketches and try new ideas quickly. You can sketch to exact dimensions or create a rough layout to modify later. Sketching entities include lines, arcs, and splines. Sketching tools include trim, offset, and project-to-sketch. Sketches remain free of constraints, making the resulting 3D geometry completely flexible. You can create and edit 3D while in a cross section in familiar 2D drawings.
Pull Tool creates and modifies geometry with a simple action. You can pull a surface to create an extrusion, pocket, or hole. You can also pull a surface to rotate it around an axis or to create sophisticated geometry by blending through different sections. Pulling a profile along a path creates a sweep, and pulling an edge creates a round or chamfer.
Move Tool provides a 3D handle to reference how geometry should be located along a specified direction or rotated about an anchor point.
Section Tool modifies a 3D model by directly changing section geometry
located at any cross section through the design. This intuitive
operation is familiar to people accustomed to working in 2D.
Associative Drawing environment
SpaceClaim's Associative Drawing environment lets you change designs, as well as create and modify geometry, from within drawing views. The drawing environment provides a familiar work space for those accustomed to working in 2D. Drawings support annotations, including geometric dimensioning and tolerances, notes and leaders, to JIS, ISO, and ANSI® standards. The Associative Drawing environment lets you change designs, as well as create and modify geometry, from within drawing views. Drawings support annotations, including geometric dimensioning and tolerances, notes and leaders, to JIS, ISO, and ANSI® standards.