Sketcher

®
Pro/ENGINEER
Wildfire™ 2.0
Sketcher
Help Topic Collection
Parametric Technology Corporation

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Patents of Parametric Technology Corporation or a Subsidiary
Registration numbers and issue dates follow. Additionally, equivalent patents may be issued or pending
outside of the United States. Contact PTC for further information.
6,665,569 B1 16-December-2003 6,608,623 B1 19 August 2003 4,310,615 21-December-1998
6,625,607 B1 23-September-2003 6,473,673 B1 29-October-2002 4,310,614 30-April-1996
6,580,428 B1 17-June-2003 GB2354683B 04-June-2003 4,310,614 22-April-1999
GB2354684B 02-July-2003 6,447,223 B1 10-Sept-2002 5,297,053 22-March-1994
GB2384125 15-October-2003 6,308,144 23-October-2001 5,513,316 30-April-1996
GB2354096 12-November-2003 5,680,523 21-October-1997 5,689,711 18-November-1997
6,608,623 B1 19 August 2003 5,838,331 17-November-1998 5,506,950 09-April-1996
GB2353376 05-November-2003 4,956,771 11-September-1990 5,428,772 27-June-1995
GB2354686 15-October-2003 5,058,000 15-October-1991 5,850,535 15-December-1998
6,545,671 B1 08-April-2003 5,140,321 18-August-1992 5,557,176 09-November-1996
GB2354685B 18-June-2003 5,423,023 05-June-1990 5,561,747 01-October-1996
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Parametric Technology Corporation, 140 Kendrick Street, Needham, MA 02494 USA
Table Of Contents
Sketcher ....................................................................................................... 7
Using Sketcher with Intent Manager ............................................................... 7
About Sketcher Mode with the Intent Manager .............................................. 7
Functionality Map .....................................................................................10
To Create a Section in 2-D Sketcher ...........................................................15
To Access the Right Mouse Button Shortcut Menu .........................................15
Configuring for Sketcher ..............................................................................16
About Sketcher Configuration Options.........................................................16
To Set Sketcher Configuration Options ........................................................16
grid_snap................................................................................................17
section_color ...........................................................................................17
sketcher_blended_background ...................................................................17
sketcher_collinear_skamps........................................................................18
sketcher_dec_places ................................................................................18
sketcher_disp_constraints .........................................................................18
sketcher_disp_dimensions.........................................................................18
sketcher_disp_grid ...................................................................................18
sketcher_disp_vertices .............................................................................19
sketcher_disp_weak_dimensions................................................................19
sketcher_equal_length_skamps .................................................................19
sketcher_equal_radii_skamps ....................................................................19
sketcher_grid_angle .................................................................................19
sketcher_grid_method ..............................................................................19
sketcher_set_grid_x_spacing .....................................................................19
sketcher_set_grid_y_spacing .....................................................................20
sketcher_import_exact_geom ....................................................................20
sketcher_intent_manager..........................................................................20
sketcher_lineup_hor_skamps.....................................................................20
i
Table Of Contents
sketcher_lineup_ver_skamps .....................................................................20
sketcher_lock_modified_dims ....................................................................20
sketcher_midpoint_skamps .......................................................................20
sketcher_num_digits ................................................................................21
sketcher_parallel_skamps .........................................................................21
sketcher_perpendicular_skamps ................................................................21
sketcher_point_on_entity_skamps..............................................................21
sketcher_rel_accuracy ..............................................................................21
sketcher_same_point_skamps ...................................................................21
sketcher_save_preview_image...................................................................21
sketcher_starts_in_2d ..............................................................................21
sketcher_symmetric_skamps .....................................................................22
sketcher_tangent_skamps.........................................................................22
sketcher_undo_stack_limit ........................................................................22
sketcher_refit_after_dim_modify................................................................22
Setting Sketcher Environment ......................................................................22
About Sketcher Preferences.......................................................................22
To Set Constraint Preferences ....................................................................23
To Set Display Preferences ........................................................................23
To Set Sketcher Parameters ......................................................................24
Working with the Sketcher Grid..................................................................24
To Set Sketcher Color ...............................................................................26
To Change Sketcher Accuracy ....................................................................26
To Change Sketcher Accuracy (OFF) ...........................................................26
To Change the Anchor Point (OFF)..............................................................26
References.................................................................................................27
About References .....................................................................................27
To Create References................................................................................27
To Create References with the X sec Option .................................................28
To Create References for a Section .............................................................28
Creating Sketcher Geometry ........................................................................28
ii
Table Of Contents
About Creating Geometry in Sketcher .........................................................28
To Create a Line ......................................................................................29
To Create a Centerline ..............................................................................29
To Create a Line Tangent to Two Entities.....................................................29
To Create a Centerline Tangent to Two Entities ............................................30
To Create a Rectangle...............................................................................30
To Create a Circle ....................................................................................30
To Create a Circle Tangent to Three Entities ................................................31
To Create a Circle Through Three Points ......................................................31
To Create an Ellipse..................................................................................31
Rules for Creating an Ellipse ......................................................................32
To Create a Conic.....................................................................................32
To Create an Arc ......................................................................................33
Example: Creating an Arc using a Target.....................................................33
To Create a Fillet Arc ................................................................................34
Sketching a Fillet Arc ................................................................................34
Example: Fillet Arcs..................................................................................34
To Create an Arc Tangent to Three Entities ..................................................35
To Create an Elliptical Fillet .......................................................................35
To Create a Spline....................................................................................35
Using a Coordinate System........................................................................35
To Create a Coordinate System ..................................................................36
To Interpret a Coordinate System as Cartesian or Polar.................................36
Creating an Axis Point...............................................................................36
To Create an Axis Point .............................................................................36
To Create Text in Sketcher ........................................................................37
Creating Geometry from Model Edges .........................................................38
Creating Geometry with the Offset Edge Option ...........................................40
Manipulating Sketcher Geometry ..................................................................42
About Dividing and Trimming Entities .........................................................42
To Trim and Extend Entities.......................................................................42
iii
Table Of Contents
To Trim Entities to Each Other ...................................................................42
To Trim Entities by an Incremental Length (OFF)..........................................42
To Trim Entities to a Bounding Entity (OFF) .................................................42
To Trim Entities to a Specific Length (OFF) ..................................................43
To Intersect Entities (OFF) ........................................................................43
To Use the Delete Segment Command ........................................................43
To Divide Entities .....................................................................................44
Mirroring Geometry ..................................................................................44
To Mirror Geometry ..................................................................................44
Sketcher Selection Filter ..............................................................................44
About the Sketcher Selection Filter .............................................................44
To Use the Sketcher Selection Filter............................................................45
Example: Using the Sketcher Selection Filter ...............................................45
Working with Sections .................................................................................49
About Importing Files into Sketcher ............................................................49
To Retrieve an Existing Section or Drawing ..................................................49
To Import Files into Sketcher .....................................................................49
To Dimension a Section.............................................................................50
Tip: Dimensioning a Section to Part Edges...................................................50
To Exit Sketcher with an Incomplete Section................................................50
Dimensioning Sketcher Geometry .................................................................51
Dimensioning Basics .................................................................................51
To Create Dimensions (basic) ....................................................................51
To Use Known Dimensions (OFF)................................................................51
To Strengthen Weak Dimensions ................................................................52
To Control the Display of Dimensions ..........................................................52
Replacing a Dimension..............................................................................52
To Replace a Dimension ............................................................................53
To Add Relations to a Section ....................................................................53
To Modify Dimension Values ......................................................................53
Entering Negative Dimensions ...................................................................54
iv
Table Of Contents
To Modify the Number of Decimal Places in Dimensions .................................54
To Lock or Unlock Section Dimensions ........................................................54
To Use the Drag Dim Val Option (OFF) ........................................................54
Creating Major Dimension Types ................................................................55
Dimensioning a Spline ..............................................................................59
Dimensioning a Conic ...............................................................................61
Creating Other Dimension Types ................................................................63
Moving or Replacing Entities .........................................................................66
To Move Entities ......................................................................................66
To Scale and Rotate a Section....................................................................66
To Replace an Entity.................................................................................67
To Move Dimensions (OFF) ........................................................................68
To Drag a Single Entity (OFF) ....................................................................68
To Drag Multiple Entities (OFF) ..................................................................69
To Use the Drag Entity Option (OFF)...........................................................69
To Use the Drag Vertex Option (OFF)..........................................................69
Constraining Geometry ................................................................................70
About Using Sketcher Constraints...............................................................70
Graphic Display of Constraints ...................................................................70
To Control the Display of Constraints ..........................................................71
Supported Constraints ..............................................................................71
To Create Constraints ...............................................................................72
To Delete a Constraint ..............................................................................72
To Strengthen Constraints.........................................................................72
To Obtain Information about a Constraint....................................................73
To Make Circular or Elliptic Entities of Equal Radius.......................................73
To Control the Display of Constraints (OFF) .................................................73
Modifying a Section .....................................................................................73
To Delete Entities.....................................................................................73
To Create Construction Entities ..................................................................74
To Thicken a Wall Section In Sheetmetal Mode.............................................74
v
Table Of Contents
Modifying Sketcher Text............................................................................74
Modifying a Spline ....................................................................................74
Section Geometry Information ......................................................................83
To Obtain Information About Section Geometry............................................83
Using a Coordinate System to Obtain Section Information (OFF) ....................83
Creating a Feature Section ...........................................................................84
About Using Sketcher to Create a Feature Section ........................................84
To Create a Feature Section (basic) ............................................................84
To Enter Sketcher Environment (basic) .......................................................85
To Specify and Orient the Sketching Plane...................................................85
Tip: Orienting the Sketching Plane..............................................................85
Defining References for a Section ...............................................................86
Sketcher Hints............................................................................................86
Sketcher Hints .........................................................................................86
To Resolve a Conflict ................................................................................87
Index ...........................................................................................................89
vi
Sketcher
Using Sketcher with Intent Manager
About Sketcher Mode with the Intent Manager

The Intent Manager enables you to dynamically dimension and constrain geometry
as you sketch. Before you enable Intent Manager for an existing section, make sure
the section is successfully regenerated. Any extra dimensions found by Sketcher will
be converted into reference dimensions.
To set Sketcher to use Intent Manager by default, set the configuration option
sketcher_intent_manager to yes.
To Disable Intent Manager

You can disable Intent Manager by clicking Sketch > Intent Manager.
Note: Topics that have the term "OFF" in their titles, exclusively discuss the Intent
Manager OFF behaviour for that functionality.
Terminology in Sketcher
The following glossary lists terminology used in Sketcher.
Term Definition
Entity Any element of the section geometry (such as

line, arc, circle, spline, conic, point, or
coordinate system).
You create entities when you sketch, divide, or

intersect the section geometry, or when you
reference geometry outside the section.
Reference entity An entity of the section that is created in 3-D

Sketcher when you reference geometry outside
the section. The referenced geometry (for
example, part edge) is "known" to Sketcher.
For example, creating a dimension to a part

edge creates a reference entity in the section
which is the projection of that part edge onto
the sketching plane.
Dimension A measurement of an entity or a relationship

among entities.
7
Sketcher – Help Topic Collection
Constraint A condition defining the geometry of the entity

or a relationship among entities. A constraint
symbol appears next to the entity to which the
constraint is applied.
For example, you can constrain two lines to be

parallel. A parallel constraint symbol appears
to indicate this.
Parameter An auxiliary numerical value in Sketcher.
Relation An equation relating dimensions and/or

parameters.
For example, a relation can be used to set the

length of one line to be half the length of some
other line.
Weak dimension or A dimension or constraint is called "weak" if

constraint Sketcher can remove it when appropriate
without any confirmation from the user.
Dimensions created by Sketcher are weak.
When you add a dimension, Sketcher can
remove an extra weak dimension or constraint
without any confirmation. Weak dimensions
and constraints appear in gray.
Strong dimension or A dimension or constraint is called "strong" if

constraint Sketcher cannot delete it automatically.
Dimensions and constraints created by the
user are always strong. If several strong
dimensions or constraints are in conflict,
Sketcher asks you to remove one. Strong
dimensions and constraints appear in yellow.
Conflict Contradicting or redundant conditions of two or

more strong dimensions or constraints. When
this occurs, the conflict must be resolved
immediately by removing an undesired
constraint or dimension.
Using Shortcuts with the Right Mouse Button

You can access the most frequently used drafting operations by pressing the right
mouse button. Additionally the right mouse button shortcut menu is context
sensitive.
8
Sketcher
The right mouse button shortcut menu is divided into three areas. The top of the
menu contains editing, manipulation and selection commands. The middle portion of
the menu contains creation commands and the bottom portion of the menu always
contains the Undo command.
Note: You cannot access this menu when you are in rubberband mode.
Using the Toolbar Icons

After you enter Sketcher, the toolbar displays the icons for the following options:
o Select
o Create Line
Create Centerline
o Create Rectangle
o Create Circle, Concentric Circle, Ellipse
Create Concentric Circle
Create Ellipse
o Create Arc
Create Concentric Arc
Create Center/Endpoints Arc
Create Conic Arc
o Create Circular Fillet
Create Elliptical Fillet
o Create Spline
o Create Points
Create Coordinate System
o Create entity from edge
Offset Edge
o Dimension
o Modify
o Constrain
o Create Text
o Trim/Divide Entity
o Mirror
Rotate
9
Copy
o Continue/Quit Section
Saving a Section
To save the section before exiting Sketcher, click File > Save or click the Save icon
on the toolbar. The system creates a file with extension ".sec".
Exiting Sketcher Mode

To exit Sketcher after you are finished creating a section, click Sketch > Done.
To exit Sketcher and discard any sketched geometry, click Sketch > Quit.
Functionality Map
Sketch Menu
Point— Sketch > Point
Line
Geometry
2 Points—Sketch > Line
2 Tangent—Sketch > Line, snap, modify
Centerline
2 Points—Sketch > Centerline
2 Tangent—Sketch > Centerline, snap, modify
Rectangle—Sketch > Rectangle
Arc
Tangent End—Sketch > Arc, snap, modify
Concentric—Sketch > Arc > Concentric
3 Tangent—Sketch > Arc, snap, modify
Fillet—Sketch > Fillet > Circular
Center\Ends—Sketch > Arc > Center and Ends
3 Point—Sketch > Arc
Circle
Geometry
Center/Point—Sketch > Circle
Concentric—Sketch > Circle > Concentric
3 Tangent—Sketch > Circle, snap, modify
10
Sketcher
Fillet—Sketch > Circle, snap, modify

3 Point—Sketch > Circle, drag
Construction
Center/Point—Sketch > Circle, Edit > Toggle Construction (Select items first)
Concentric—Sketch > Circle > Concentric, Edit > Toggle Construction (Select
items first)
3 Tangent—Sketch > Circle, snap, modify, Edit > Toggle Construction (Select
items first)
Fillet—Sketch > Circle, snap, modify, Edit > Toggle Construction (Select items
first)
3 Point—Sketch > Circle, drag, Edit > Toggle Construction (Select items first)
Adv Geometry
Conic—Sketch > Arc > Conic
Coord Sys—Sketch > Coordinate System
Elliptic Fillet—Sketch > Fillet > Elliptical
Ellipse—Sketch > Circle > Ellipse
Spline
Sketch Points—Sketch > Spline
None—Sketch > Spline, don't snap
Start—Sketch > Spline, snap
End—Sketch > Spline, snap
Both—Sketch > Spline, snap
Control Poly—Sketch > Spline, modify
Approx Chain select entities—Edit > Convert to > Spline
Text—Sketch > Text
Axis Point—Sketch > Feature Tools > Axis Point
Blend Vertex—Sketch > Feature Tools > Blend Vertex (Select item first)
Dimension Menu
Strengthen—Edit > Convert to > Strong (Select items first)
Normal—Sketch > Dimension > Normal
Perimeter—Edit > Convert to > Perimeter (Select items first)
Baseline—Sketch > Dimension > Baseline
Replace—Edit > Replace
11
Constrain Menu
Create
Same Points—Sketch > Constrain
Horizontal—Sketch > Constrain
Vertical—Sketch > Constrain
Point on Entity—Sketch > Constrain
Tangent—Sketch > Constrain
Perpendicular—Sketch > Constrain
Parallel—Sketch > Constrain
Equal Radii—Sketch > Constrain
Equal Lengths—Sketch > Constrain
Symmetric—Sketch > Constrain
Line Up Horizontal—Sketch > Constrain
Line Up Vertical—Sketch > Constrain
Collinear—Sketch > Constrain
Alignment—Sketch > Constrain
Explain—Sketch > Constrain
Strengthen—Edit > Convert to > Strong (Select items first)
Modify Menu
Mod Entity—Edit > Modify
Drag Dim Val—Edit > Modify, select dim, click Regenerate
Set Anchor—Edit > Toggle Lock (Select items first)
Scale—Edit > Modify, select dim(s), click Lock Scale
Lock Menu
Lock>Unlock—Edit > Toggle Lock (Select items first)
Lock All Dims—Edit > Toggle Lock (Select items first)
Delete Menu
Delete Item—Edit > Delete (Select items first)
Delete Many—Edit > Delete (Select items first)
Delete All—Edit > Delete (Select items first)
12
Sketcher
Geom Tools Menu

Intersect—Edit > Trim > Divide
Trim—Edit > Trim > Corner
Bound—Edit > Trim > Delete Segment
Corner—Edit > Trim > Corner
Divide—Edit > Trim > Divide
Use Edge
Sel Edge—Sketch > Edge > Use
Sel Loop—Sketch > Edge > Use
Sel Chain—Sketch > Edge > Use
Offset Edge
Sel Edge—Sketch > Edge > Offset
Sel Loop—Sketch > Edge > Offset
Sel Chain—Sketch > Edge > Offset
Tapered—Edit > Convert to > Tapered (Select items first)
Mirror—Edit > Mirror (Select items first)
Replace—Edit > Replace
Rotate—Edit > Scale & Rotate (Select items first)
Sec Tools Menu

Copy Layout—File > Import > Layout, retrieve layout
Copy Draw—File > Import> Append to Model..., retrieve Drawing
Place Section—Sketch > Data from File..., retrieve Sketch
Sec Environ
Disp Verts—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Display, Vertices
Disp Constr—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Display, Constraints
Disp Dim—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Display, Dimensions
Grid
Grid—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Display, Grid
Type—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Parameters, Cartesian or
Polar
Origin—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Parameters
Params—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Parameters
Num Digits—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Parameters
13
Accuracy—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Parameters

Declaration—Sketch > Feature Tools > Declaration
Sec Info
Entity—Analysis > Entity
Intersect Pt—Analysis > Intersection Point
Tangent Pt—Analysis > Tangency Point
References—Sketch > References
Angle—Analysis > Angle
Distance—Analysis > Distance
CrvtureDisp—Analysis > Curvature
Grid Info—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Parameters
Start Point—Sketch > Feature Tools > Start Point
Toggle—Sketch > Feature Tools > Toggle Section
Relation Menu
Add— Tools > Options > Relations
Edit Rel— Tools > Options > Relations
Show Rel— Tools > Options > Relations
Evaluate— Tools > Options > Relations
Sort Rel— Tools > Options > Relations
Show Dim— Tools > Options > Relations
Switch Dim— Tools > Options > Relations
Add Param— Tools > Options > Relations
Del Param— Tools > Options > Relations
Session ID— Tools > Options > Relations
User Prog— Tools > Options > Relations
Where Used— Tools > Options > Relations
Undo—Edit > Undo
Redo—Edit > Redo
Sketch View—View > Sketch View
Done—Sketch > Done
Quit—Sketch > Quit
Use 2D Sketcher—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Display, Use 2D
Sketcher
14
Sketcher
Snap to Grid—Sketch > Options > Sketcher Preferences, Display, Snap to

Grid
[for swept blend feature with selected sections]
Sel—Curve>Edge
To Create a Section in 2-D Sketcher

1. Sketch the section geometry.
The system adds dimensions and constraints automatically as you create the
section.
2. Redefine the dimensioning scheme, as needed.
You can modify the dimensioning scheme created by Sketcher by adding your
own dimensions and constraints. You cannot explicitly delete any system
dimensions. As you add dimensions and constraints, the system automatically
deletes system (weak) dimensions and constraints that are no longer necessary.
If you want to keep the system dimensions and constraints, strengthen them
before exiting Sketcher.
3. Add section relations, if desired.
4. Add relations to control the behavior of your section.
5. Save the section before exiting.
To Access the Right Mouse Button Shortcut Menu

The right mouse button shortcut menu is context sensitive. Sketcher dynamically
assembles the shortcut menu taking the following factors into consideration:
• What command is currently invoked
• What kind of entity is selected
• What is currently pre-highlighted
The top portion of the menu contains editing, manipulation and selection commands.
Some of the commands that the top portion may include are:
• Accept
• Delete
• Enable/Disable
• Modify
• Next
• Pick
• Previous
• Query Sel
15
• Strong
• Unlock
• Unselect last
The middle portion of the menu contains creation commands. Generally the following
commands are available:
• Line
• Rectangle
• Circle
• 3 Point/Tangent Arc
• Centerline
• Fillet
• Dimension
The menu, in its lower portion, lists only the following command:
• Undo—Undo the most recent operation.
Note: You cannot access the shortcut menu when you are in rubberband mode.
Configuring for Sketcher
About Sketcher Configuration Options

You can preset environment options and other global settings by entering the
settings you want in a configuration file. To set configuration file options click Tools
> Options.
This help module contains a list of configuration options, in alphabetical order,
showing for each option or group of related options:
• Configuration option name.
• Associated variables or values. The default values for the options are shown in
italics.
• Brief description.
To Set Sketcher Configuration Options

1. Click Tools > Options. The Options dialog box opens.
2. Click the Show only options loaded from file check box to see currently
loaded configuration options or clear this check box to see all configuration
options.
3. Select the configuration option from the list or type the configuration option
name in the Option box.
16
Sketcher
4. In the Value box type or select a value.
Note: The default value is followed by an asterisk (*).
5. Click Add/Change. The configuration option and its value appear in the list. A
green status icon confirms the change.
6. When you finish configuring, click Apply or OK.
grid_snap
yes, no
yes—Pick points snap to a grid

no—Turns the grid snap off so that any location can be picked.
section_color
default, drawing_color
Specifies the color of sketched sections.
default—Color is cyan.
drawing_color—Color is white.
After you set this option, it takes effect immediately in the current session of
Pro/ENGINEER.
sketcher_blended_background
yes, no
yes—Use blended background in 3D Sketcher.
The option has no effect if blended background is turned off generally. After you set
this option, it takes effect immediately in the current session of Pro/ENGINEER.
17
sketcher_collinear_skamps
yes, no
yes—Collinear constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Collinear constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_dec_places
value (default=2)
Sets the default number of decimal places displayed for dimensions in Sketcher. The
extrusion depth or any other dimension you enter to create 3D geometry is
controlled by the default_dec_places option.
Pro/ENGINEER and affects the subsequent settings of decimal places displayed for
dimensions in Sketcher.
sketcher_disp_constraints
yes, no
Shows the constraints when sketching in Sketcher Mode; for example, H for
horizontal, V for vertical, and so on.
Pro/ENGINEER.
sketcher_disp_dimensions
yes, no
This configuration option when set to no, suppresses all dimensions displayed in a
sketcher session.
Pro/ENGINEER.
sketcher_disp_grid
yes, no
yes—Display the sketcher grid.
Pro/ENGINEER and affects the subsequent display.
18
Sketcher
sketcher_disp_vertices
yes, no
Places yellow points on vertices in sketcher.
Pro/ENGINEER.
sketcher_disp_weak_dimensions
yes, no
yes—weak dimensions are displayed.

no—weak dimensions are not displayed.
sketcher_equal_length_skamps
yes, no
yes—Equal length constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Equal length constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_equal_radii_skamps
yes, no
yes—Equal radii constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Equal radii constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_grid_angle
<value>
Enter a grid angle value to overide the default grid angle value.
sketcher_grid_method
number
Enter an x grid spacing value to override the default x grid spacing value.
sketcher_set_grid_x_spacing
number
Enter a x grid spacing value to override the default x grid spacing value.
19
sketcher_set_grid_y_spacing
number
Enter a y grid spacing value to override the default y grid spacing value.
sketcher_import_exact_geom
yes,no
Improves the performance while importing geometry.
sketcher_intent_manager
yes, no
yes—The Intent Manager the default
no—The old sketcher is the default.
Pro/ENGINEER, the next time you access Sketcher.
sketcher_lineup_hor_skamps
yes, no
yes—Line up horizontal constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Line up horizontal constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_lineup_ver_skamps
yes, no
yes—Line up vertical constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Line up vertical constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_lock_modified_dims
yes, no
yes—Modified dimensions are locked.

no—Modified dimensions are not locked.
sketcher_midpoint_skamps
yes—Midpoint constraints are used by the Intent Manager.
no—Midpoint constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
20
Sketcher
sketcher_num_digits
Enter a number of digits for sketcher accuracy.
sketcher_parallel_skamps
yes, no
yes—Parallel constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Parallel constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_perpendicular_skamps
yes, no
yes—Perpendicular constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Perpendicular constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_point_on_entity_skamps
yes, no
yes—Point on entity constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Point on entity constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_rel_accuracy
<value>
Enter a sketcher relative accuracy.
sketcher_same_point_skamps
yes, no
yes—Same point constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Same point constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_save_preview_image
yes, no
Controls whether selection files should be saved with embedded image information
used to preview sections in the File and Open dialog boxes.
sketcher_starts_in_2d
yes, no
Defines initial model orientation in Sketcher mode.
21
yes—2D orientation, looking directly at section (sketching) plane.

no—Orientation unchanged. Sketch directly on the 3D part.
Pro/ENGINEER and affects the subsequent orientation of models in Sketcher.
sketcher_symmetric_skamps
yes, no
yes—Symmetric constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Symmetric constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_tangent_skamps
yes, no
yes—Tangent constraints are used by the Intent Manager.

no—Tangent constraints are not used by the Intent Manager.
sketcher_undo_stack_limit
Sketcher saves a copy of each function performed. The number of possible saved
functions depends on the number specified in the option. The undo menu can be
used to remove the stored functions. After you set this option, it takes effect
immediately in the current session of Pro/ENGINEER.
sketcher_refit_after_dim_modify
yes, no
Controls the behavior of altering the view after a modification has been made to refit
the entire sketch on screen.
Setting Sketcher Environment
About Sketcher Preferences

You can customize the Sketcher environment by clicking Sketch > Options. The
Sketcher Preferences dialog box that appears allows you to do the following:
• Show/hide the screen grid, vertices, constraints, dimensions, and weak
dimensions.
• Set Sketcher constraint preferences.
• Change the grid parameters.
• Change Sketcher accuracy and the number of decimal places in dimensions.
22
Sketcher
To Set Constraint Preferences

1. In Sketcher mode, click Sketch > Options . Pro/ENGINEER displays the
Sketcher Preferences dialog box.
2. Click the Constraints tab.
3. The Constraints tabbed page lists the following constraints. You can control the
constraints that Sketcher assumes by placing or removing a check mark:
o Line Up Horizontal
o Line Up Vertical
o Parallel
o Perpendicular
o Equal Length
o Equal Radii
o Collinear
o Symmetric
o Midpoint
o Tangent
4. Click to apply the changes and close the dialog box.
Note: To reset default constraints, click the Default button. To ignore the changes
and close the dialog box click .
To Set Display Preferences

1. In Sketcher mode, click Sketch > Options. Pro/ENGINEER displays the
Sketcher Preferences dialog box.
2. The Display tabbed page lists the following options that you can switch on and
off by placing or removing a check mark:
o Grid—display of the screen grid.
o Vertices— display of vertices. You can control the display of vertices by

setting the configuration option sketcher_disp_vertices.
o Constraints—display of constraints. You can control the display of

constraints by setting the configuration option
sketcher_disp_constraints.
o Dimensions—display of all section dimensions.
o Weak Dimensions—display of weak dimensions.
o Snap To Grid—Engage or disengage the snap to grid option.
23
o Lock Modified Dimensions—Lock or unlock modified dimensions.
o Start in Sketch View—Orient model so that the sketching plane is parallel

to the screen.
3. Click the button to apply the changes and close the dialog box.
Note: To reset default display preferences, click the Default button. To ignore the
changes and close the dialog box click .
To Set Sketcher Parameters

1. In Sketcher mode, click Sketch > Options. The Sketcher Preferences dialog
box opens.
2. Click the Parameters tab.
3. The Parameters tabbed page lists the following options:
o Grid—You can modify the grid Origin, Angle and Type.
o Grid Spacing—You can change the spacing of both the Cartesian and Polar
grids. Select Automatic or Manual from the drop-down list box to achieve
the following:
Automatic—Grid scales adjust depending on the zoom factor.
Manual—x and y remain constant at the specified values.
o Accuracy—You can modify the number of decimal places that the system
displays for dimensions. In addition you can change the relative accuracy
for Sketcher solving.
4. Click the button to apply the changes and close the dialog box.
Note: To reset default parameters, click the Default button. To ignore the
changes and close the dialog box click .
Working with the Sketcher Grid

Sketcher mode supports both Cartesian and polar grids. When you first enter
Sketcher mode, the system displays a Cartesian grid. Before beginning the sketch,
the grid can be one of two sizes:
• For the first feature section of a part and for auxiliary sketches such as blind
holes, the grid has a spacing equal to one model unit. For example, sketching a
box 4x6 grid spaces creates a box measuring 4x6 units.
• Additional section sketches for a model use a grid for reference only. You can
modify this grid spacing, but the first grid displayed is scaled for the current part
size and does not have a value of one unit between grid lines.
You can set the grid intersection at the following locations:
24
Sketcher
• Sketched entity endpoint and center of arc/circle
• Sketched point and coordinate system
• Datum point and coordinate system
• Edge or curve vertex
To do so, open the Sketcher Preferences dialog box and click the Parameters
tab. Click the mouse pointer button and then appropriate geometry to locate the
origin.
Modifying the Grid Spacing

You can use the Manual or Automatic options located in the drop-down list in the
Sketcher Preferences dialog box to control grid spacing. Automatic adjusts grid
spacing depending on the zoom factor. Use Manual to modify the grid spacing and
angle. Use this option when you first start a sketch (before any geometry has been
created) to control the approximate size of the section. To modify the grid spacing or
angle, open the Sketcher Preferences dialog box and click the Parameters tab.
Next, select Manual from the drop-down list. The options available depend on the
grid type.
For a Cartesian grid, the available options are as follows:
• X&Y Spacing—Set the spacing in both the x- and y- directions to the same
value.
• X Spacing—Set the x-direction spacing only.
• Y Spacing—Set the y-direction spacing only.
• Angle—Set the angle of the grid lines relative to the x-axis.
For a polar grid, the options are as follows:

• Ang Spacing—Set the angular spacing between radial lines. The specified value
must divide evenly into 360.
• Num Lines—Set the number of radial lines. The angular spacing is 360 divided
by the number of lines.
• Rad Spacing—Modify the spacing of the circular grid.
• Angle—Modify the angle between the horizontal and the 0 degree radial line.
Note: Click to control the display of sketcher grids.
25
To Set Sketcher Color

The default color for section geometry is cyan. You can change this color by using
the configuration file option section_color. You can also change the color by
selecting View > Display Settings > System Colors. The new color applies to
both new and modified geometry.
To Change Sketcher Accuracy

Modifying the Sketcher accuracy helps solve certain section regeneration problems.
For example, if a problem occurs because the length of a segment is less than
Sketcher accuracy, you can increase the accuracy by entering a smaller number.
1. Click Sketch > Options. The Sketcher Preferences dialog box appears.
2. Click Parameters.
3. In the Relative box, enter a value between 1.0E-9 (0.000000001) and 1.0.
To Change Sketcher Accuracy (OFF)

1. Ensure that the Intent Manager is OFF on the Sketch menu.
2. Click Sec Environ on the SEC TOOLS menu. The SEC ENVIRON menu appears.
3. Click Accuracy.
4. At the prompt for the new accuracy, enter a value between 1.0E-9
(0.000000001) and 1.0.
5. If the section still fails to regenerate successfully, try increasing the accuracy
again (entering a smaller number), or evaluate the section for other problems.
Pro/ENGINEER remembers the relative accuracy of each section when you
redefine a feature that contains the section.
To Change the Anchor Point (OFF)

2. Click SKETCHER > Modify. The MOD SKETCH menu appears.
3. Select Set Anchor from the MOD SKETCH menu. This option is available only
when no three-dimensional geometry exists for locating the section.
4. Select the point that you want to use as the anchor for the sketch.
26
Sketcher
References
About References
To dimension and constrain geometry, Pro/ENGINEER requires you to create
references. References can be created through the References dialog box. To open
the References dialog box, click Sketch > References.
Pro/ENGINEER prompts you to create references in the following situations:
• When you create a new feature, the References dialog box opens.
Pro/ENGINEER prompts you to select a perpendicular surface, edge, or vertex
relative to which the section will be dimensioned and constrained.
• When you redefine a feature that is missing references.
• When you do not have enough references to place a section.
Note: When you create a new feature, the system automatically selects default
Sketcher references. You can change these references or create new ones in the
References dialog box.
To Create References
1. Click Sketch > References. Pro/ENGINEER displays the References dialog box.
2. Select from the following options:
o Select—Use this tool to create references for dimensioning and

constraining. Click on model geometry to create a reference. Pro/ENGINEER
displays each new reference in the References list.
o X Sec—Use this tool to create references at the intersection of a sketching

plane and a surface. To create a reference, click the left mouse button at
the intersection of a sketching plane and a surface. Pro/ENGINEER displays
each new reference in the References list.
o Delete—Use this option to delete references. Select the reference you wish
to delete from the references list. Click Delete. Pro/ENGINEER deletes the
selected reference.
o Chain—Use this list filter to select all edge references in the References
dialog box.
Notes:
o To delete all edge references, click Chain and then click Delete.
o When selecting from the reference list you can highlight multiple references
by holding down the CONTROL key as you select.
3. Click Close. Pro/ENGINEER accepts the references and closes the dialog box.
Note: You can sketch without creating sufficient references as long as you create the
required references later.
27
To Create References with the X sec Option

You can use the X sec option to create reference entities by intersecting the
sketching plane with surfaces. All other reference entities in Sketcher are created by
projecting the referenced geometry onto the sketching plane. In contrast, the X sec
option projects the referenced geometry onto the sketching plane to create true
intersections. This command is especially useful for variable section sweeps.
1. Click Sketch > References. The References dialog box opens.
2. Click the X sec button.
3. Select a surface. Sketcher creates a reference entity at the intersection of the

sketching plane with the surface.
4. Click Close. Pro/ENGINEER closes the dialog box.
To Create References for a Section

1. Click Sketch > References. The References dialog box appears.
2. Select a perpendicular surface, an edge, or a vertex relative to which the section

will be dimensioned or constrained.
3. The system shows reference entities as orange phantom lines.
Creating Sketcher Geometry
About Creating Geometry in Sketcher

To start sketching, select an option from the Sketcher toolbar or the Sketch menu.
Create entities by clicking points inside the Sketcher window.
As you move the mouse pointer, Sketcher determines applicable constraints and
displays them; Pro/ENGINEER displays the active constraint in red. As you create
geometry it snaps to satisfy these constraints (for example, horizontal or vertical line
constraint).
After the entities are sketched, you can apply additional constraints by selecting the
Constrain option in the Sketch menu.
You use the mouse in Sketcher in different ways:
• Use the left mouse button to pick points on the screen and the middle mouse
button to abort the current action.
• Press SHIFT and click the left mouse button to switch between circle and ellipse
creation. You can use the same mouse operation to switch between circular fillet
and elliptical fillet creation.
• While you are sketching, you can disable the current constraint (shown in red) by
pressing the right mouse button and lock the constraint by pressing SHIFT and
the right mouse button.
• Press CONTROL and click the left mouse button to gather selected items.
28
Sketcher
• You can click the right mouse button menu for a shortcut menu with frequently
used sketching commands (while you are not in the rubberband mode).
The system automatically dimensions geometry as you sketch entities by adding only
those dimensions that are necessary to solve the section. The system dimensions are
called "weak" dimensions (they appear in gray), because the system can remove or
change them without your input. Use the Dimension option in the Sketch menu to
add "strong" dimensions (they appear in yellow).
To Create a Line
1. Click Sketch > Line.
Note: You can also access the line command by clicking the Line button in the
Sketcher toolbar. Additionally, you can right-click in the Sketcher window and
select Line from the shortcut menu.
2. Click at the location at which you want to start the line. A "rubberband" line
appears attached to the cursor.
3. Click at the location at which you want the line to end. Pro/ENGINEER creates a
line between the two points and starts another rubberband line.
4. Repeat Step 3 to create additional lines.
5. Click the middle mouse button to end line creation. The rubberband line
disappears.
To Create a Centerline
Centerlines are used to define the axis of revolution of a revolved feature, to define a
line of symmetry within a section or to create construction lines. Centerlines have
infinite length and are not used to create feature geometry.
1. Click Sketch > Line> Centerline.
Note: You can also use the Centerline command by clicking the Centerline icon
in the Sketcher toolbar. Additionally, you can right-click in the Sketcher window
and select Centerline from the shortcut menu.
2. Click to select a location at which to intersect the centerline. A centerline appears

attached to the cursor.
3. Click a second location at which to intersect the centerline. Pro/ENGINEER

creates a Centerline between the two points.
To Create a Line Tangent to Two Entities
1. Click and then click located in the Line creation fly-out or Sketch >
Line > Line Tangent.
2. Select a start location on an arc, circle. Use middle mouse button to end the
command.
29
Note: Line is previewed after two points are defined.
3. Select an end location on an arc, circle. Use middle mouse button to end the
command.
To Create a Centerline Tangent to Two Entities
1. Click and then click located in the Line creation fly-out or Sketch > Line
> Centerline Tangent.
2. Select a start location on an arc, circle. Use middle mouse button to end the
command.
3. Select an end location on an arc, circle. Use middle mouse button to end the
command.
To Create a Rectangle
1. Click Sketch > Rectangle.
Note: You can also access the Rectangle command by selecting Rectangle from
the Sketcher toolbar. Additionally, you can right-click in the Sketcher window
and select Rectangle from the shortcut menu.
2. Place one vertex with the left mouse button and drag the rectangle to the desired
size.
3. To place the other vertex, click the left mouse button.
The four lines of the rectangle are independent. You can handle them (trim, align,
and so forth) individually.
To Create a Circle
1. Click Sketch > Circle. The default circle type is Center/Point.
Note: You can also use the Circle command by selecting Circle from the
select circle from the shortcut menu.
2. Click on the arrow to the right of the Circle button to select the creation method.
o Center/Point—Create a circle by picking the center point and a point that

lies on the circle.
o Concentric—Create a concentric circle. Select a reference circle or an arc

to define the center point. As you move the cursor, the circle rubberbands
until you press the left mouse to finish. The selected referenced circle can
be a sketched entity or a model edge. If the selected circle reference is a
model entity that is "unknown" to Sketcher, it automatically becomes a
reference entity.
30
Sketcher
To Create a Circle Tangent to Three Entities
1. Click and then click located in the Circle creation fly-out or Sketch >
Circle > 3 Tangent.
2. Select a start location on an arc, circle, or line. Use middle mouse button to end
the command.
3. Select an end location on an arc, circle, or line. Use middle mouse button to end
the command.
Note: Circle is previewed after two points are defined.
4. Select a third location on an arc, circle, or line. Use middle mouse button to end
the command.
To Create a Circle Through Three Points
1. Click and then click located in the Circle creation fly-out or Sketch >
Circle > 3 Point.
2. Select a start location on an arc. Use middle mouse button to end the command.
3. Select the first point on the circle.
4. Select the second point on the circle.
Note: Circle is previewed after two points are defined.
5. Select the third point on the circle.
To Create an Ellipse
1. Click Sketch > Circle > Ellipse.
Note: You can also use this command by clicking the Ellipse button in the
Sketcher toolbar.
2. Click the center of the ellipse.
3. Drag the ellipse to the desired shape and click the left mouse button to finish.
4. Once the center and the corner of the defining rectangle of the ellipse are
selected, the sketch is created and two dimensions, Rx and Ry are placed in the
sketch. The dimensions Rx and Ry define the length of the X and Y axis of the
ellipse. The following figure is an example of an ellipse.
31
Rules for Creating an Ellipse

An ellipse has the following properties:
• The center point of an ellipse behaves the same as the center of a circle, and can
be referred to by dimensions and constraints.
• The axes of an ellipse are parallel to the horizontal and vertical axes of the
sketch. An ellipse cannot be slanted.
• Ellipse is defined by two radii: x-radius and y-radius. The length of the horizontal
axis from the center of the ellipse to the ellipse itself is called the x-radius in
Sketcher. The vertical half-axis is called the y-Radius. These radii can be
dimensioned and can be referred to by Equal Radius constraints.
• The center of the ellipse and the ellipse itself will snap to constraints while the
ellipse is being sketched. Some of the constraints that can be applied to an
ellipse are Tangency, Point on Entity, and Equal Radii.
To Create a Conic
1. Click Sketch > Arc > Conic.
2. Pick the first endpoint for the conic using the left mouse button.
3. Pick the second endpoint for the conic using the left mouse button.
4. Pick the location for the shoulder using the left mouse button. The conic
rubberbands as you move the cursor.
32
Sketcher
To Create an Arc
1. Click Sketch > Arc.
Note: You can also use this command by clicking Arc in the Sketcher toolbar.
Additionally, you can right-click in the Sketcher window and select either 3-Point
or Tangent arc from the shortcut menu.
2. Select one of the following creation methods from the ARC menu:
o 3 Point/Tangent End— Create a 3-point arc by picking its endpoints and

an additional point on the arc. To create a tangent arc, pick an endpoint of
an existing entity to determine tangency, then pick a location for the other
endpoint of the arc.
o Concentric—Create a concentric arc. Select an arc to use its center,

rubberband to the desired radius, and sketch the arc.
o Center/Ends—Create an arc by picking the center point of the arc and the
endpoints of the arc.
Example: Creating an Arc using a Target

When you create a 3 Point/Tangent End Arc on an existing endpoint, Sketcher
displays a target symbol attached to the endpoint. To create a 3 point arc, drag the
cursor out of a quadrant perpendicular to the end of the entity. To create a tangent
end arc, drag the cursor out of a quadrant tangent to the end of the entity.
1. Endpoint
2. Existing Geometry
3. Quadrants for 3 Point Arc creation
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4. Quadrants for tangent end are creation
To Create a Fillet Arc

The Fillet option creates a rounded intersection between any two entities. The size
and location of the fillet depends on the pick locations.
1. Click Sketch > Fillet > Circular.
Note:You can also use this command by clicking the Arc button in the Sketcher
toolbar. Additionally, you can right-click in the Sketcher window and select Fillet
from the shortcut menu.
2. Click the first line using the left mouse button.
3. Click the second line using the left mouse button. Pro/ENGINEER creates a fillet
from the selected point that is closest to the intersection point of the two lines
and trims the lines to the intersection point.
Sketching a Fillet Arc

The Fillet option creates a rounded intersection between any two entities. The size
and location of the fillet depends on the pick locations.
You cannot create a fillet between the following entities:
• Parallel lines
• A centerline and another entity
When a fillet is inserted between two entities, the system automatically divides two
entities at the fillet tangency points. If you add the fillet between two non-parallel
lines, the lines are automatically trimmed to the fillet. If you add the fillet between
any other entities, you must delete leftover segments manually.
Example: Fillet Arcs

Fillets Between Different Entities
1. Fillets between lines, splines and circles
2. Division points
3. Resulting geometry after deleting entities between division points
34
Sketcher
To Create an Arc Tangent to Three Entities
1. Click and then click located in the Arc creation fly-out or Sketch > Arc
> 3 Tangent.
2. Select a start location on an arc, circle, or line. Use middle mouse button to end
the command.
3. Select an end location on an arc, circle, or line. Use middle mouse button to end
the command.
Note: Arc is previewed after two points are defined.
4. Select a third location on an arc, circle, or line. Use middle mouse button to end
the command.
To Create an Elliptical Fillet

The axes of the elliptical fillet are horizontal and vertical. The elliptical fillet is
tangent at its endpoints to the entities selected for its creation. For this operation,
you can select the same entities as for Arc, Fillet.
1. Click Sketch > Fillet > Elliptical.
Note: You can also access the elliptical fillet command by clicking the Elliptical
Fillet button in the Sketcher toolbar.
2. Click the entities between which you want to create an elliptical fillet.
To Create a Spline
Splines are curves that pass smoothly through any number of intermediate points.
1. Click or Sketch > Spline.
2. Click in the Sketcher window to add points to the spline. A "rubberband" spline
appears attached to the cursor.
3. Repeat Step 2 to add additional spline points. Click the middle mouse button to
end spline creation.
Using a Coordinate System

You can add a coordinate system to a section to be used with the following:
• Spline—You can dimension a spline to a coordinate system. This allows you to
modify the spline points by specifying the x-, y-, and z-axis coordinates with
respect to the coordinate system.
• Reference—You can add coordinate systems to any section to aid dimensioning.
• Blend feature section—You can use the coordinate system to establish the
relative origin for each of the sections used for blends.
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To Create a Coordinate System

1. Click Sketch > Coord Sys.
Note: You can also use this command by clicking the Coordinate System
button in the Sketcher toolbar.
2. Click a location to locate the coordinate system.
To Interpret a Coordinate System as Cartesian or Polar

You can choose between two types of draft grids: Cartesian and Polar. The system
creates a Cartesian grid by locating points on a plane, measuring their distance from
either of two intersecting straight-line axes along a line parallel to the other axis.
It creates a Polar grid by locating points in a plane, measuring their distance from a
fixed point on a line and the angle this line makes with a fixed line. To change from
one type to another, click Sketch > Options.
When using a two-dimensional draft grid in a drawing, keep in mind the following:
The grid snap falls on the grid lines when grid snap is on (set in the Environment
dialog box).
The grid origin and angle affect the coordinate values specified for geometry points.
The x-axis is always along one direction of the grid, while the y-axis is along the
other.
The grid origin affects the coordinate values appearing in the message area when
sketching.
Creating an Axis Point

Use the Axis Point option from the Sketch menu to create an axis that is normal to
the sketching plane. The depth of the axis is determined by the geometry of the
feature and is similar to an axis of a cylindrical hole.
You can use the axis created with the Axis Point option for referencing and
dimensioning both in Sketcher and throughout Pro/ENGINEER. The axis point
behaves as an axis created with Datum > Axis in Part mode. You can include the
Sketcher axis in a punch UDF and slot.
To Create an Axis Point

1. Click Sketch > Axis Point.
2. Click a point.
3. The system creates an axis through the point.
36
Sketcher
To Create Text in Sketcher

1. Click Sketch > Text and select a start point on the sketching plane to set text
height and orientation.
2. Click an end point. Sketcher creates a construction line between the start point
and the end point. The length of the construction line determines the height of
the text, while the angle of the line determines the text orientation. The Text
dialog box opens.
3. Under Text line, select Enter text manually or Use parameter.
Note: Use parameter is available only in the 3D mode.
• Enter text manually—Type a single line of up to 79 characters of text.
If required, click Text Symbol to insert special text symbols. The Text Symbol
dialog box opens. Select the symbol that you want to insert. The symbol appears
in the Text line box and in the graphics area. Click Close to close the Text
Symbol dialog box.
• Use Parameter—Allows you to select a parameter that you have defined. The
value of the parameter is displayed on the screen.
a. Click Use Parameter. The Select Parameter dialog box opens.

b. Under Look In, select Part, Feature, Annotation Element, Surface, or
Edge to determine the object type. The name of the object type you select,
appears in the Look In box.
c. Select a parameter from the Parameters Table and click OK. The name of
the selected parameter appears in the Text line box and cannot be
modified. The value of the parameter is displayed on the screen.
4. You can specify any of the following under Font in the Text dialog box.
o Font—Select a type face from a list of PTC-supplied fonts and TrueType

fonts.
o Aspect ratio—Use the slide bar to increase or decrease the aspect ratio of
your text.
o Slant angle—Use the slide bar to increase or decrease the slant angle of
your text.
o Place along curve—Click this box to place your text along a curve and
select the curve on which you want to place the text. Pro/ENGINEER
prompts you to select the direction in which you want the text to flow. Click
Flip to change the direction.
5. Click OK to create the text. If you have selected Enter text manually, then the
text is created on the sketching plane and if you have selected Use parameter,
then the value of the parameter is displayed in the current sketcher window.
Note: If you select a parameter that does not have a value, then the graphics
area displays *** (three asterisks) as the value of the parameter.
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Creating Geometry from Model Edges
About the Use Edge Option

The Use Edge option in the Sketch menu creates Sketcher geometry by projecting
selected model edges onto the sketching plane. The system aligns endpoints of the
entity to the endpoints of the edge. The entity created with Use Edge has the "~"
constraint symbol.
After you create geometry with the Use Edge option, you can use Trim, Divide,
and Fillet on it.
In Sketcher mode, the Use Edge option allows you to pick an existing part axis to
create a centerline that is automatically aligned to the axis. The Use Edge option is
especially useful for duplicating splines in non-parallel planes.
Note the following restrictions:
• A circle is broken into two arcs. You must select each segment separately.
• You cannot select a composite datum curve for Use Edge. Instead, use Query
Sel to select the underlying segments.
• A spline silhouette edge is not selectable for the Use Edge operation.
For the Use Edge option, you can orient the model any way that is convenient.
To Create Geometry with the Use Edge Option

1. Click Sketch > Edge > Use. Pro/ENGINEER opens the Edge Type dialog box.
Note: You can also access the Use Edge command by clicking the Use Edge
2. Select an edge type by clicking the radio button next to the option. Choose:
o Single—to create sketched entities offset from a single edge.
o Chain—To create sketched entities from a chain of edges or entities. If you

select curves, they must both belong to the same datum curve. If you
select edges, they must belong to the same surface or face. You can pick
two edges on a part’s geometry or two one-sided edges of a quilt.
Additionally, if you pick two entities that belong to an IGES wireframe or a

datum curve in a uniquely defined plane, the Sketcher tries to choose a
chain that connects the entities and lies in that plane.
o Loop—to create sketched entities from a loop of edges or entities.
3. Click the Close button in the Edge Type dialog box. Pro/ENGINEER closes the
dialog box and applies the changes.
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Sketcher
Example: Creating Geometry with the Use Edge Option
1. The completed section
2. The completed feature
To Create Reference Entities by Intersection

You can create reference entities from the intersection of a surface with the
sketching plane. For example, when the sketching plane intersects a cylinder
lengthwise, you can use the curves created from this intersection as model
references.
1. Click Sketch > References. The References dialog box opens.
2. Click X sec.
3. Click a part surface that intersects the sketching plane.
4. The system creates a reference entity and shows entities as orange phantom
lines.
To Create a Single Trimmed Edge (OFF)

To use a portion of the edge to create an offset entity, you must create a trimmed
offset edge from a single edge.
2. Click SKETCHER > Point and place points on the edge at the locations to which
you will trim before you create entities offset from the edge.
3. Click Geom Tools on the SKETCHER menu. The GEOM TOOLS menu appears.
4. Click Offset Edge. The OFFSET SEL menu appears.
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5. Select Sel Edge, Sel Loop, or Sel Chain. The OFFSET TYPE menu appears.
6. From the OFFSET TYPE menu select Trimmed. This option requires that you
have first placed points on the edge at the locations to which you will trim the
edge.
7. Click Done/Return.
8. Pro/ENGINEER prompts you to select a point to trim the edge. Click one of the
points.
9. Enter the offset value in the indicated direction.
10. Select the second point. If you select Tapered, enter the offset value for the
second endpoint.
Tip: Determining the End of a Trimmed Spline

Sketcher can determine the end of a trimmed Use Edge spline by using the end
tangency angle as a dimension. Sketcher looks for lines and centerlines that are
tangent to the trimmed ends of the spline created by the Use Edge option. If the
angle of the line can be determined without determining where the point is, Sketcher
determines the point location by finding where the tangent to the spline has the
specified angle.
Creating Geometry with the Offset Edge Option
About the Offset Edge Option

The Offset Edge option in the Sketch menu creates Sketcher geometry by
offsetting.
You can create offset entities from edges that are lines, arcs, or splines. When you
create an offset entity, each point of the original lines, arcs, or splines is first
projected onto the sketching plane. Each point is then offset normal to the projected
entities by the specified distance. For example, creating an offset arc results in a
concentric arc of a different diameter, rather than in a translated copy of the same
arc.
Offset entities can be created from a single entire edge (untrimmed), a portion of a
single edge (trimmed), a chain of edges or entities, or a loop of edges or entities.
Consider the following information about the Offset Edge command:
• A circle is broken into two arcs. You must select each segment separately.
• You cannot offset edges that have tangency that meets in a sharpened point.
• When you select tangent edges to offset, select them all at the same time using
the Chain option. Otherwise, the section will fail regeneration because the
individual offsets of the tangent entities will not be connected.
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Sketcher
• When you delete an offset edge, Pro/ENGINEER retains the corresponding

reference entities. If you do not use these references in the section, the system
deletes them when you exit Sketcher.
To Create Geometry with the Offset Edge Option

To use the whole edge to create an offset entity, you must create an untrimmed
offset edge from a single edge.
1. Click Sketch > Edge > Offset. Pro/ENGINEER opens the Edge Type dialog box.
Note: You can also access the Offset Edge command by clicking the Offset
Edge button in the Sketcher toolbar.
2. Select an edge type by clicking the radio button next to the option. Choose:
o Single—to create sketched entities offset from a single edge.
o Chain—To create sketched entities offset from a chain of edges or entities.

If you select curves, they must both belong to the same datum curve. If
you select edges, they must belong to the same surface or face. You can
pick two edges on a part’s geometry or two one-sided edges of a quilt.
Additionally, if you pick two entities that belong to an IGES wireframe or a

datum curve in a uniquely defined plane, the Sketcher tries to choose a
chain that connects the entities and lies in that plane.
o Loop—to create sketched entities offset from a loop of edges or entities.
3. Click the Close button in the Edge Type dialog box. Pro/ENGINEER closes the
dialog box and applies the changes.
Using Offset Edge, Select Chain Options

When you offset a chain of entities by a large distance, the system creates offset
geometry according to the following guidelines:
• If the offset is inward along an arc and the offset value exceeds the radius of the
arc, the system removes the arc from the offset chain. Similarly, the system
might remove other entities because of excessive offset value. If you lower the
offset value later, the entities reappear.
• If the offset value is more than the local minimum radius of curvature for entities
that compose the offset chain, the system creates an offset chain that might
have a different number of entities. For example, offsetting a spline by a large
value causes the resulting spline to be broken into several pieces. If the offset
value is changed, the system can "piece" together the broken spline so it
becomes a single entity again.
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Manipulating Sketcher Geometry
About Dividing and Trimming Entities

You can divide and trim entities by using Trim in the Edit menu or by holding down
the CONTROL key and dragging the endpoint of the entity to the desired location.
To Trim and Extend Entities

1. Bring the pointer over the entity that you want to trim. The entity is highlighted.
2. Holding down the CONTROL key, drag the endpoint of the entity that you want to
trim. The entity is trimmed or extended in the direction in which you drag it. At
every intersection, the constraint that it created is displayed.
To Trim Entities to Each Other

1. Click Edit > Trim > Corner. Pro/ENGINEER prompts you select two entities to
trim.
Note: You can also access the Trim command by clicking Trim on the Sketcher
toolbar.
2. Click any two entities (they do not have to intersect) on the portion of the entity
that you want to keep. Pro/ENGINEER trims the two entities together.
To Trim Entities by an Incremental Length (OFF)

3. Click Trim. The DRAFT TRIM menu appears.
4. Click Increm and type the incremental length by which you want to modify the
entity. A positive value lengthens the entity, while a negative value shortens it.
5. Select the entity that you want to trim. The entity is trimmed according to the
incremental length that you have specified.
To Trim Entities to a Bounding Entity (OFF)

2. Click Geom Tools from the SKETCHER menu. The GEOM TOOLS menu
appears.
4. Click Bound and select a bounding entity.
Note: Consider the following when using Bound:
42
Sketcher
• You can use a centerline, datum plane, datum axis, or tangent edges as bounding
entities.
• You cannot use a feature axis or cosmetic feature entities as bounding entities.
5. Select the entity that you want to trim. Pro/ENGINEER shortens or extends this
entity up to the point where it intersects the bounding entity or its extension. If
the trimmed entity is to be shortened, select the part of the entity that you want
to keep.
To extend two entities so that they intersect, first select one of them as the
bounding entity and trim the other; then reverse the process.
To Trim Entities to a Specific Length (OFF)

4. Click Length and type the required length for the entity that you want to modify.
5. Select the entity that you want to trim. The entity is trimmed according to the
length that you have specified.
To Intersect Entities (OFF)

The Intersect option determines the intersection point of two entities that cross,
and divides both of them at the point of intersection.
Note: Centerlines, edges, axes, and planes can be used for intersections; however,
they cannot be split.
3. Click Intersect.
4. Click on the first entity near the intersection point.
5. Click on the second entity near the intersection point.
6. Pro/ENGINEER splits the entities at their point of intersection.
To Use the Delete Segment Command

1. Click Edit > Trim >Delete Segment.
Note: You can also access this command by clicking the Delete Segment button
in the Sketcher toolbar.
2. Click on the segment that you want to delete. The segment is deleted.
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To Divide Entities
You can divide a section entity into two or more new entities. If the entity is
dimensioned, delete the dimension before using the Divide command.
1. Click Edit > Trim > Divide.
Note: You can also access the Divide command by clicking the Divide button in
the Sketcher toolbar.
2. Click the entity at the locations where you want to divide. The divide points
appear as yellow points on the entity. Pro/ENGINEER divides the entity at the
specified locations.
Note: To create a divide at an intersection, click near the intersection and

Pro/ENGINEER automatically snaps to the intersection and creates the divide.
Mirroring Geometry
Use the Mirror command from the Edit menu to mirror Sketcher geometry about a
sketched centerline. For example, you can create half of the section and then mirror
it.
Pro/ENGINEER uses the dimensions of one side to solve the other. This reduces the
number of dimensions necessary to solve the section. When you mirror geometry,
Sketcher mirrors constraints too.
Note: You can mirror only geometric entities. You cannot mirror dimensions, text
entities, centerlines, and reference entities.
To Mirror Geometry
1. Make sure the sketch contains a centerline.
2. Select an entity or multiple entities to mirror.
3. Click Edit > Mirror.
Note: You can also access the Mirror command by clicking the Mirror button in
the Sketcher toolbar.
4. Click a centerline. The system mirrors all selected geometry about the selected
centerline.
Sketcher Selection Filter
About the Sketcher Selection Filter

Selection filters enable you to filter the type of entities that you want to select. The
sketcher selection filter, located on the status bar of the Sketcher window, enables
you to select only the geometry, dimensions, or constraints of the sketch. When you
select a filter, objects of only that filter type are selected or highlighted. You can
select all objects of that filter type at the same time by enclosing your sketch in a
selection box or select entities of that filter type by clicking on them one by one.
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Sketcher
For example, if you select Geometry, only those sketcher geometric entities (lines,
arcs, circles, etc) that exist in the current sketching environment are selected or
highlighted and the other entities are not available for selection. By default, the
sketcher selection filter is set to All.
To Use the Sketcher Selection Filter

1. Create a new sketch or open an existing one.
2. To select specific object types, select the required filter from the selection filter
on the status bar. By default, the selection filter is set to All.
• All—All the sketcher objects including dimensions, references, constraints and

geometric entities are selected.
• Geometry—Only those sketcher geometric entities that exist in the current

sketching environment are selected.
• Dimension—Weak or strong dimensions or reference dimensions are selected.
• Constraint—Constraints existing in the current sketching environment are

selected.
3. For multiple selection, draw a selection box to specify the area on the sketch that
is to be filtered for specific object types or click on the objects to select them
individually. Only those entities that are available for selection are highlighted
when you pass the mouse pointer over them. Objects of the selected filter type
are highlighted in red.
Note: The options available under the selection filter change with the operation that
you perform on the sketch. For example, if you modify your sketch by clicking Edit >
Modify, the selection filter has only three options: All, Geometry and Dimension.
Constraint is not available as you cannot modify the constraints that have been set
on the sketch.
Example: Using the Sketcher Selection Filter

The following figure has been used to show the results of using the different types of
filters. The figure illustrates a sketch before using a selection filter.
45
The following figure illustrates how you draw a selection box to enclose an area of
the sketch.
The following figure illustrates the results of using the All filter. The objects that are
selected are highlighted in red.
46
Sketcher
The following figure illustrates the results of using the Geometry filter. The objects
that are selected are highlighted in red.
The following figure illustrates the results of using the Dimension filter. The objects
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The following figure illustrates the results of using the Constraint filter. The objects
48
Sketcher
Working with Sections
About Importing Files into Sketcher

You can use Sketch > Data from File to retrieve a section from disk or from
memory and place it on the current sketch as an independent copy of the original
section. The target section can be empty or can contain existing entities (and
dimensions). Placing a section does not alter other sketched geometry.
In a parallel blend, the retrieved section is added to the current subsection.
This method copies the entities and relations (if any) of the original section without
reference to the original context in which they were created. Thus, the accuracy, grid
parameters, and units of measure are those of the current model.
The placed section behaves as a regular sketched section. After you place the
section, it is no longer associated with the source section.
You can easily replace the retrieved section with another one. For parallel blends,
you can place the retrieved section into different subsections with variations in
rotation angle and size.
To Retrieve an Existing Section or Drawing

1. Click Sketch > Data from File. The Open dialog box opens.
2. Select the file type to append in the Type box. You can append drawing, IGES,
sketch and DXF files.
3. Select the file to append and click OK. The system retrieves the section and
displays it in the Sketcher window. Pro/ENGINEER opens the Scale Rotate dialog
box. Additionally, the Scale, Rotate and Move handles appear on your selection.
4. In the Scale Rotate dialog box, enter a scale value and a rotation value. You can
also:
o Drag the Scale handle to modify the scale of the section.
o Drag the Rotate handle to rotate the section.
o Drag the Move handle to move the section or center the selection.
5. Click in the Scale Rotate dialog box. Pro/ENGINEER closes the dialog box
and appends the new geometry.
To Import Files into Sketcher

You can copy an imported drawing into either an empty section in Sketcher mode or
an empty section for the first feature in the model.
1. Click Sketch> Data from file.
49
2. Select a drawing file that you want to copy into a sketch by choosing its name
from the Open dialog box. The system displays the drawing in a subwindow and
the Scale Rotate dialog box appears.
3. Use the Scale Rotate dialog box to scale or rotate the drawing you have
imported.
To Dimension a Section
Sections sketched on a part must be dimensioned for size and relative placement on
the part. For dimensioning, the sketching plane does not have to be parallel to the
screen—the part can be in any orientation. In fact, sometimes dimensioning the
section with the model in a 3-D view helps avoid invalid dimensioning.
When sketching on a part, you can create two dimension types by Sketch
>Dimension.
• Normal—Create a dimension that references sketched entities only, or between
a sketched entity and part geometry. These dimensions are used to solve the
section and eventually become regular part dimensions.
• Baseline—Establish a baseline for ordinate dimensioning.
• Reference—Appear on a sketch for information only. Therefore, they are read-

only and cannot be used to modify the model; however, they are automatically
updated during regeneration if changes are made to the model.
Tip: Dimensioning a Section to Part Edges

When dimensioning to a part edge, you must consider what type of entity the part
edge is. Splines and arcs may appear in the sketching plane as straight lines to
which you can dimension. But, if the plane that was used as the sketching plane is
modified (for example, if the angle of a datum plane changed), the spline or arc no
longer appears as a straight line. Thus, the dimensioning scheme becomes invalid,
Pro/ENGINEER will not be able to place the feature, and the feature creation or
regeneration will fail.
One way to avoid this situation is to not dimension to splines or arcs that project
onto the sketching plane as straight lines. However, if the situation does occur,
modify the dimensioning scheme to dimension section geometry to linear geometry.
You can orient the part in an iso-type view to help you select proper geometry on the
part.
To Exit Sketcher with an Incomplete Section

You can exit Sketcher with unfinished sections by selecting Done from the Sketch
menu. This creates an incomplete section, which you can finish later. A feature that
has an incomplete section becomes an incomplete feature.
1. When you want to exit Sketcher with an unfinished section, click Done from the
Sketch menu.
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Sketcher
2. Pro/ENGINEER informs you that the section is unresolved and asks you for
confirmation to exit.
Dimensioning Sketcher Geometry
Dimensioning Basics
Sketcher makes sure that the section is adequately constrained and dimensioned at
any stage of the section creation. As you sketch a section, the system automatically
dimensions the geometry. These dimensions are called "weak" dimensions, because
the system creates and removes them without warning. Weak dimensions appear in
gray.
You can also add your own dimensions to create the desired dimensioning scheme.
User dimensions are considered "strong" dimensions by the system. As you add
strong dimensions, the system automatically removes unnecessary weak dimensions
and constraints. It is good practice to strengthen weak dimensions that you intend to
keep in a section before you exit Sketcher. This ensures that the system does not
delete these dimensions without your input.
If adding a dimension leads to a conflict or redundancy in the dimensioning scheme
and constraints, Sketcher issues a warning and lets you resolve the conflict.
Deleting Weak Dimensions

Weak dimensions cannot be deleted. They are automatically removed when you
create strong dimensions that make the weak dimensions unnecessary.
To Create Dimensions (basic)

Use the Dimension command in the Sketch menu to add "strong" dimensions or to
replace existing dimensions.
1. Select the entity that you want to dimension.
2. Place the dimension at the desired position using the middle mouse button.
The Dimension command works in "continue" mode: you continue creating

dimensions of one type until you select another option.
Note: You can also access the Dimension command by clicking the Dimension
To Use Known Dimensions (OFF)

Known dimensions allow you to establish meaningful parametric dependencies when
creating a section of a feature.
2. Sketch and dimension as usual.
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3. Create Known dimensions on part geometry that will be used to drive the
feature section.
4. From the Sketch menu, select Relation.
5. Add relations connecting Normal section dimensions with the Known ones.
6. When the system updates the section, values of normal dimensions change
according to the relations.
Dimensions driven by Sketcher relations cannot be modified directly. To access

Sketcher relations, choose Redefine and Section. You can also do it in Part mode
by choosing Relations, Feat Rel, selecting the feature, and choosing Section.
To Strengthen Weak Dimensions

You can selectively turn weak dimensions into strong dimensions by using the
Strong command in the Convert To menu.
1. Click a dimension to strengthen.
2. Click Edit > Convert to > Strong. The dimension changes from gray to yellow.
Notes:
• Throughout Pro/ENGINEER, whenever you modify a value of a weak dimension or
use it in a relation, that dimension becomes strong.
• When you strengthen a dimension, the system rounds its value.
To Control the Display of Dimensions

You can turn the display of dimensions on or off in any of the following ways:
• Click Sketch > Options. The Sketcher Preferences dialog box appears. Add or
remove a check mark in front of the Dimensions and Weak Dimensions
options to turn display on or off.
• To disable the default dimensions display, set the configuration option

"sketcher_disp_dimensions" to "no."
• Click the Dimension icon in the toolbar.
Replacing a Dimension
You can replace an existing Sketcher dimension with an equivalent one so that the
new dimension retains the symbolic dimension (sd#) of the original. Replacing a
dimension is useful when you want to preserve additional data associated with the
original dimension (for example, geometric tolerance symbol or extra text added in
Drawing mode).
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Sketcher
To Replace a Dimension
1. Click Edit > Replace.
2. Click a dimension to replace. The selected dimension is deleted.
3. Create a new equivalent dimension.
To Add Relations to a Section

You can add relations to sections while you are in Sketcher mode. Relations in
Sketcher mode follow the same rules as in Part mode, except the parameters must
belong to a model and cannot be created in Sketcher mode. The relations apply to
the section, but you can modify and use them in part or assembly relations.
You can also enter a section relation when you modify the driven dimension. Enter
the relation (for example, sd4=sd2+sd3/2) when you are modifying dimension
values. Pro/ENGINEER displays the new relation and prompts you to accept it.
When you add the relation, use dimension symbols as follows: sd# for normal
Sketcher dimensions, rsd# for reference Sketcher dimensions, and kd# for known
dimensions.
Note: Only Sketcher, reference, and known dimensions are allowed in relations
created within Sketcher mode.
To Modify Dimension Values

Use the Modify Dimensions dialog box to change dimension values of entities.
1. Click the Select button in the Sketcher toolbar.
2. Select the dimensions or entities that you wish to modify.
3. Click Edit > Modify. The Modify Dimensions dialog box opens. Each of the
entities and the dimension values you selected appear in the Dimensions list.
Note: You can also access the Modify Dimensions dialog box by clicking the
Modify button in the Sketcher toolbar.
4. In the Dimensions list, click the value of the dimension you want and enter a
new value
Note: You can also click and drag the rotation wheel next to the dimension you
want to modify. To increase the dimension value, drag the rotation wheel to the
right. To decrease the dimension value, drag the rotation wheel to the left. As
you drag the wheel, Pro/ENGINEER dynamically updates your geometry.
5. Repeat Step 4 to modify other dimensions in the list.
6. Click . Pro/ENGINEER regenerates the section and closes the dialog box.
Note: You can modify a single dimension value by double-clicking on the dimension
in the Sketcher window.
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Entering Negative Dimensions

For linear dimensions, you can enter a negative dimension value. This causes the
geometry to reverse direction. In Sketcher, the negative sign always appears next to
the dimension. In Part mode, dimension values always appear as positive.
To Modify the Number of Decimal Places in Dimensions

You can use the Sketcher Preferences dialog box to specify the default number of
decimal places in dimensions.
1. Click Sketch > Options. The Sketcher Preferences dialog box opens.
2. Click the Parameters tab. The Parameters tabbed page appears.
3. Enter a new value in the Num Digits box or use the up and down arrows in the
Num Digits box to increase or decrease the number of decimal places.
4. Click . Pro/ENGINEER applies the changes and closes the dialog box.
Note: When you add dimensions, Pro/ENGINEER rounds values to the specified
number of decimal places.
To Lock or Unlock Section Dimensions

1. Select the dimension that you want to lock.
2. Click Edit > Toggle Lock. Pro/ENGINEER locks the selected dimension. You can
also lock or unlock the selected dimension by using Lock on the shortcut menu.
To unlock the selected dimension click Edit > Toggle Lock.
To Use the Drag Dim Val Option (OFF)

2. Click Modify on the SKETCHER menu. The MOD SKETCH menu appears.
3. Click Drag Dim Val and select up to five dimensions
4. Click Done Sel.
5. The system displays a thermotool with the Modify Dims sliders and the Scale
slider. Use the appropriate Move Dims sliders to vary corresponding dimensions.
Use the Scale slider to vary all the selected dimensions at once. When you use
the Scale slider, the system multiplies all dimensions in other sliders by the
scale, except for dimensions that do not control length directly, for example,
angular dimensions and conic rho dimensions.
6. By moving the mouse, slide the red arrows to point to new values. Sketcher
automatically changes the sketch to reflect your changes. The system displays
only the dimensions that you are changing. If you are satisfied with the change,
click the left mouse button in the top bar of the thermotool. To reset the tool,
click the right mouse button. Use the middle mouse button to abort the process.
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Sketcher
Note:You can change the Sensitivity value, which in effect changes the range of
the slider control.
Creating Major Dimension Types
To Create Linear Dimensions

You can use the dimension command to create linear dimensions.
1. Click Sketch > Dimension > Normal.
Note: You can also use this command by clicking the Dimension button on the
select Dimension from the shortcut menu.
2. To dimension the:
o Length of a line—Click the line, and then click the middle mouse button to
place the dimension.
o Distance between two parallel lines—Click the two lines, and then click the
middle mouse button to place the dimension.
o Distance between a point and a line—Click the line, click the point, and then
click the middle mouse button to place the dimension.
o Distance between two points—Click the points, and then click the middle
mouse button to place the dimension.
Notes:
o You cannot dimension the length of a centerline because it is infinite.
o When you are creating a dimension between two arc or circle extents
(tangency points), only horizontal and vertical dimensions are allowed.
Pro/ENGINEER creates the dimension to the tangency point closest to the
pick point.
To Create Diameter Dimensions
To Create a Diameter Dimension for an Arc or a Circle

2. Double-click on the arc or circle.
3. Click the middle mouse button to place the dimension.
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To Create a Diameter Dimension for a Revolved Section

2. Click the entity to be dimensioned.
3. Click the centerline that will be the axis of revolution.
4. Click the entity again.
Note: The diameter dimension for a revolved feature extends beyond the
centerline, indicating that it is a diameter dimension, not a radius dimension.
Example: Creating Diameter Dimensions

The following figure shows how to create a diameter dimension for a revolved feature
section.
1. Section
2. Click 1
3. Click 2 - on centerline
4. Click 3
5. Click 4 - places dimension
6. Resulting dimension
To Create Radial Dimensions

Radial dimensions measure the radii of circles or arcs and circles and arcs created by
revolving a section about an axis.
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Sketcher
To Create a Radial Dimension for an Arc or Circle

2. Click on the circle or arc.
To Create a Radial Dimension for a Revolved Section

2. Click the entity.
3. Click the centerline axis.
To Create Angular Dimensions

Angular dimensions measure the angle between two lines or the angle of an arc
between its endpoints.
2. Click the first line.
3. Click the second line.
Note: Where you place the dimension determines how the angle is measured (either
acute or obtuse).
To Create an Angle Dimension for an Arc

2. Click one endpoint of the arc.
3. Click the other endpoint of the arc.
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4. Click the arc.
Example: Creating Angular Arc Dimensions
1. Click 1 - on endpoint
2. Click 2 - on endpoint
3. Click 3 - on arc
4. Click 4 - places dimension
5. Resulting dimension
To Create an Angle Dimension between Lines

2. Click the first line.
3. Click the second line.
Note: Where you place the dimension determines how the angle is measured (either
acute or obtuse).
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Sketcher
Example: Creating an Angle Dimension Between Lines
1. Click edges, then place a dimension
Dimensioning a Spline
About Dimensioning a Spline

You can add dimensions to a spline by using its endpoints or interpolation points. To
dimension a spline, you must dimension its endpoints. You need not add spline
dimensions if the spline is attached to other geometry and the endpoints are
dimensioned.
You can dimension spline endpoints using linear dimensions, tangency (angular)
dimensions, and radius-of-curvature dimensions.
To Create Spline Linear Dimensions

2. Click the spline endpoint.
3. Click the geometry to which you want to dimension.
To Create Spline Tangency Dimensions

You can create tangency dimensions for endpoints and intermediate control points of
the spline. Note that the spline must have tangency defined before you can use a
tangency dimension at the ends. You can modify the spline to add tangency and then
create angle dimensions.
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2. Click the spline.
3. Click the geometry to which the spline tangency is defined.
4. Click the endpoint where the tangency is defined or any spline interpolation point.
Note: When you create a tangency dimension on the spline, Sketcher removes the
tangency assumption.
To Create a Radius-of-Curvature Dimension

The spline must have tangency defined before you can use a radius-of-curvature
dimension.
2. Click the spline endpoint.
3. Place the dimension with the middle mouse button.
Note: If no tangency exists and the endpoint is dimensioned with a radius-of-

curvature dimension, you must modify the spline to add tangency, or Pro/ENGINEER
will report the dimension as extra.
To Dimension Spline Interpolation Points

2. Click the spline. The system displays the interpolation points.
3. Click the interpolation point to dimension.
4. Click the geometry to which you want to dimension.
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Sketcher
Dimensioning a Conic
About Conic Dimensions

There are two dimensioning schemes to dimension a conic. One uses a rho value to
define the shape of the conic. The other requires you to add a distinct Sketcher point
to anchor the conic at the selected location. The resulting conic is defined by the two
endpoints and the distinct third point.
To Dimension a Conic by Its Endpoints (OFF)

2. Dimension the endpoints to locate the conic spline.
3. Create angular dimensions to define the endpoint tangency.
Tips: Creating a Conic Tangency Dimension

For two conics that are tangent to each other at a common point, you need to create
only one tangency dimension.
For some end tangency angles, a conic cannot be created. For example, it is not
possible to make a single conic that represents one half or more of an ellipse. If a
conic fails, modify the tangency angles. If no tangency angles are present, add them,
because the problematic tangents must then be determined by adjacent entities.
To Create a Conic Tangency Dimension

2. Click a conic.
3. Click the endpoint where the tangency is to be defined.
4. Click the geometry to which the spline tangency is defined (such as a centerline
or straight edge).
Example: Conic rho Dimension

The rho dimension of a conic segment PQ defines the shape of the conic. The rho
dimension specifies a ratio along a vector from the chord (PQ) through a point C to
the vertex (R). Point C is at the maximum distance (CD), measured by a normal
from the chord PQ to the conic segment PQ.
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1. rho = a/(a+b)
To Dimension a Conic Using rho

2. Click the conic with the left button.
3. Click the middle mouse button to place the dimension. The default rho value is
0.5.
4. You can modify rho to be one of the following values:
o For an ellipse: 0.05 < parameter < 0.5
o When you are creating a closed ellipse section from four conic segments,
the only value for rho that gives a true ellipse is (sqrt (2)–1). Enter this
value exactly as shown (not as the approximation .4142).
o For a parabola: parameter = 0.5
o For a hyperbola: 0.5 < parameter < 0.95
The Three Point Dimension

For conics that are defined by three distinct points, the system determines the
shoulder point from the user-defined point through which it passes. If this is a model
point (vertex or datum), you need not add another dimension—you can align the
conic to this model point. However, if it is a Sketcher point or vertex, you must
dimension the point to regenerate the sketch.
To Dimension a Conic Defined by Three Points

1. Perform the two rho dimensioning steps to define the conic endpoint and
tangency dimensions.
2. Create a Sketcher point on the conic where the conic is to remain anchored.
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Sketcher
Note: If you place the conic close enough to the Sketcher point on a curve (such as
during creation of a swept feature), the conic passes through that point, behaving
the same as a conic for which you define a third point.
Creating Other Dimension Types
About a Perimeter Dimension

A perimeter dimension is used to dimension the total length of a chain or loop of
entities. You must select a dimension that the system can adjust to obtain the
desired perimeter. This dimension is called the varying dimension. When you modify
the perimeter dimension, the system modifies the varying dimension accordingly.
Note:
• You cannot modify varying dimensions, because they are driven dimensions.
• If you delete the varying dimension, the system deletes the perimeter dimension.
Example: Perimeter Dimension
To Create a Perimeter Dimension

1. Select an entity.
2. Click Edit > Convert to> Perimeter. The system prompts you to select a
dimension to be driven by the perimeter dimension.
3. Click a dimension on the selected entity. The dimension you select becomes the
varying dimension and is governed by the perimeter dimension. It cannot be
modified directly.
The system displays the perimeter dimension along with the varying dimension.
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Note: Perimeter dimensions are not supported for parallel blends and variable
section sweeps.
To Create a Perimeter Dimension (OFF)

2. Click Sketch > Dimension. The DIMENSION menu appears.
3. Select Perimeter and click one end of the chain or loop for which you need to
create the perimeter dimension.
4. Click the endpoint of the same chain or loop or click OK in the Select dialog box
to select the entire chain.
5. Select a dimension on the loop to be driven by the perimeter dimension. The

dimension you select becomes the varying dimension and is governed by the
perimeter dimension. It cannot be modified directly.
6. Click Regenerate. The perimeter dimension is created.
To Create Reference Dimensions

Use the Reference option in the Edit > Convert to menu to create reference
dimensions in Sketcher. The symbolic name for the reference dimensions is rsd#
REF. You can include reference dimensions in Sketcher as sd# or rsd#.
Note: Reference dimension names rsd# and sd# cannot be used as parameter
names.
To Create Reference Dimensions (OFF)

2. Click Sketch > Dimension. The DIMENSION menu appears.
3. Click Reference and create the dimension that you want as a reference
dimension. The dimension that is created, is a reference dimension. The symbolic
name for the reference dimensions is rsd# REF.
Creating Ordinate Dimensions

You can create linear dimensions in ordinate format. Creating ordinate dimensions
involves two basic steps: designating the baseline and dimensioning geometry to the
baseline.
You can create the baseline dimension on lines, arc and circle centers, and geometry
endpoints (lines, arcs, conics, and splines), or you can select model geometry to
dimension as a baseline.
Note that if the baseline resides in the model, the ordinate dimension to that
baseline also resides in the model.
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Sketcher
To Create Ordinate Dimensions

1. Establish the baseline by clicking Sketch > Dimension > Baseline.
2. Select the geometry to dimension as a baseline. Locate the dimension text by

pressing the middle mouse button. For lines, the baseline is oriented the same
way. For arc and circle centers, and for geometry endpoints, choose one of the
following options from the DIM ORIENTATION menu:
o Vert—Orient the baseline vertically.
o Horiz—Orient the baseline horizontally.
3. To create ordinate dimensions to the specified baseline, click Sketch >

Dimension > Normal.
4. To add a dimension, select the baseline dimension and then select the entity to
dimension using the left mouse button. Place the ordinate dimension by pressing
the middle mouse button.
5. To add other ordinate dimensions, repeat Step 4.
Example: Creating Ordinate Dimensions

The following figure illustrates how to create an ordinate baseline.
The following figure illustrates how to create an ordinate dimension.
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To Dimension an Elliptic Fillet or Ellipse

The horizontal and vertical endpoints of the ellipse and its center point can be
dimensioned as regular Sketcher points. You can also dimension the x- and y-radii of
the elliptical fillet.
2. Click the fillet or ellipse (do not pick endpoints).
4. Select one of the following from the ELLIPSE RAD dialog box:
o X Radius—Dimension the horizontal half-axis.
o Y Radius—Dimension the vertical half-axis.
Moving or Replacing Entities
To Move Entities
Select the entity that you want to move and drag it to its new location.
Note: To define new constraints and retain the existing ones while moving an entity,
hold down the SHIFT key and drag the entity to its new location.
To Scale and Rotate a Section

Use the Scale and Rotate command in the Edit menu to shrink or expand the
entire section.
1. Click Edit > Select > All. Pro/ENGINEER selects the entire section.
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Sketcher
Note: You can use the Select command in the Sketcher toolbar to select
individual entities. Additionally you keep the CONTROL key pressed to select
multiple entities.
2. Click Edit > Scale and Rotate. Pro/ENGINEER opens the Scale Rotate dialog
box. Additionally, the Scale, Rotate and Translate handles appear on your
selection.
3. In the Scale Rotate dialog box, enter a scale value and a rotation value. Or you
can:
o Drag the Scale handle to modify the scale of the section.
o Drag the Rotate handle to rotate the section.
o Drag the Translate handle to move the section to move or center the
selection.
Note: To move a handle, click on the handle and drag it to a new location.
4. Click in the Scale Rotate dialog box. Pro/ENGINEER applies the changes
and closes the dialog box.
Notes:
o You can scale a feature section only if there is no existing geometry in the
model.
o You cannot pick angular dimensions for this command.
To Replace an Entity
You can replace an entity and redefine a section after several features are created.
The children of the replaced entity are automatically rerouted to the new entity. In
the following figure, the thin protrusion uses the top edge of the block as a
reference. The thin protrusion was created using Sketch > Edge > Use. You can
replace the referenced edge with a newly sketched spline.
1. Sketch the desired entity (spline).
2. Click Edit > Replace.
3. Select the newly sketched spline and then the entity to be replaced.
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1 Select the new entity.

2 Select the entity to replace.
Note: Pro/ENGINEER may indicate that it cannot replace an aligned or dimensioned

entity and if the dimensions should be deleted. Click Yes.
4. Regenerate the sketch
To Move Dimensions (OFF)

3. Click Move Entity. The MOVE ENTITY menu appears.
4. Click Dimension and select the dimension that you want to move. The
dimension is highlighted. You can select multiple dimensions by holding down the
CONTROL key as you select.
5. Drag the dimension to a new location. Pro/ENGINEER regenerates the sketch.
To Drag a Single Entity (OFF)

4. Click Drag Item and select the entity that you want to move. The entity is
highlighted. If you select an entity that has an endpoint that is common to other
entities, all such entities move together when you drag them.
5. Drag the entity to its new location. Pro/ENGINEER regenerates the sketch.
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Sketcher
To Drag Multiple Entities (OFF)

4. Click Drag Many and select the entities that you want to move. You can select
multiple entities by holding down the CONTROL key and selecting the entities.
The selected entities are highlighted.
5. Click OK to confirm the selection.
6. Select the point from where you want to start dragging the selected entities and
drag them to the new location.
To Use the Drag Entity Option (OFF)

2. Click Modify on the SKETCHER menu. The MOD SKETCH menu appears.
3. Click Drag Entity on the MOD SKETCH menu.
4. Click on a dimension that you want to vary and then select an entity. When you
move the mouse, the Sketcher modifies the dimension to make the entity follow
the cursor. Note that only the selected dimension changes; all the other
dimensions remain fixed.
5. To accept the new value of the dimension, click the left mouse button. To abort
the changes and restore the original value , click the middle mouse button.
6. To continue the process, select another entity for dragging or pick a new
dimension.
To Use the Drag Vertex Option (OFF)

Use the Drag Vertex option to drag vertices.
2. Click SKETCHER >Modify. The MOD SKETCH menu appears.
3. Click Drag Vertex and select two dimensions to vary and then select a vertex.
The sketch adjusts so the vertex always stays on top of the cursor.
4. To accept the new value of the dimension, click the left mouse button. To abort
the changes and restore the original value, click the middle mouse button.
5. To continue the process, select another vertex for dragging or select new
dimensions.
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Constraining Geometry
About Using Sketcher Constraints

When you sketch geometry, the system uses certain assumptions to help you locate
geometry. When the cursor comes within the tolerance of some constraints, the
system snaps to that constraint and shows its graphical symbol next to that entity.
Before you pick the location with the left mouse button, you can:
• Disable a constraint by pressing the right mouse button. To enable it again, press
the right mouse button again.
• Lock in a constraint by holding the Shift key and pressing the right mouse button.
To unlock the constraint, repeat your actions.
• When more than one constraint is active, you can change the active constraint by
using the Tab key.
Constraints that appear in gray are called "weak" constraints. They can be removed
by the system without warning. You can add your own constraints with the
Constrain option in the Sketch menu.
Constraints for the Entities Created with Use Edge or Offset Edge
An entity or a chain of entities created with Use Edge or Offset Edge has the "~"
symbol on the entity. If the endpoints of the new entity are fixed, the Same Points
constraint symbol appears next to the endpoints.
Graphic Display of Constraints

The system shows constraints as follows:
• Current constraint—red
• Weak constraint —gray
• Strong constraint—yellow
• Locked constraint—enclosed in a circle
• Disabled constraint—with a line crossing the constraint symbol
The following table lists constraints with the corresponding graphical symbols.
Constraint Symbol
Midpoint M
Same points
Horizontal entities H
Vertical entities V
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Sketcher
Point on entity
Tangent entities T
Perpendicular entities
Parallel lines
Equal radii R with an index in subscript
Line segments with equal L with an index in subscript (for example, L1)
lengths
Symmetry
Entities are lined up

horizontally or vertically
Collinear
Alignment Symbol for the appropriate alignment type.
Use Edge/Offset Edge
To Control the Display of Constraints

1. Click Sketch > Options. The Sketcher Preferences dialog box appears.
2. Under Display, clear the Constraints check box. The constraints are not
displayed on the sketch.
Note: You can also use the Constraint icon in the toolbar to toggle the display
of constraints on the sketch.
Supported Constraints
The Constraints toolbox lists the following constraints:
Button Constraint
Make a line or two vertices vertical.
Make a line or two vertices horizontal.
Make two entities perpendicular.
Make two entities tangent.
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Place a point on the middle of a line.
Make points coincident.
Make two points or vertices symmetric about a centerline.
Create equal lengths, equal radii, or equal curvature.
Make two lines parallel.
Note: Interior spline points become visible and available for selection when you
select a constraint option that allows point selection, for example, Alignment.
To Create Constraints
Use the Constrain command in the Sketch menu to open the Constraints toolbox.
The constraints you add are strong constraints.
1. Click Sketch > Constrain. The Constraints toolbox opens.
Note: You can also access the Constraints toolbox by clicking the Constraints
2. Select a constraint from the Constraints toolbox.
3. Select entities as prompted by the system.
4. Repeat Step 2 to create additional constraints.
5. Click Close. Pro/ENGINEER updates the section to the new conditions.
To Delete a Constraint
1. Select the constraint that you wish to delete.
2. Click Edit > Delete. Pro/ENGINEER deletes the selected constraint.
Note: You can also delete a selected constraint by pressing the DELETE key.
3. When you delete a constraint, the system automatically adds a dimension to

keep the section solved.
To Strengthen Constraints
You can turn weak constraints into strong constraints by selecting Strong from the
Edit > Convert To menu. Strengthen those system constraints that you do not want
the system to delete.
1. Click a constraint to strengthen.
2. Click Edit > Convert To > Strong. The constraint is strengthened.
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Sketcher
Note: When you strengthen a constraint from a group (for example, Equal Lengths),
the whole group will be strengthened.
To Obtain Information about a Constraint

2. Click Explain.
3. Click on a constraint symbol in the Sketcher window. An explanation of the

constraint appears in the message area.
To Make Circular or Elliptic Entities of Equal Radius

You can define the Equal Radii constraint between any two circles or elliptic entities.
Note: You can also click the Constraint button in the Sketcher toolbar to
display the Constraints toolbox.
2. Click the Equal Radii button in the Constraints toolbox.
3. Select an elliptic or circular entity. If you select an elliptic entity, click X Radius
or Y Radius from the ELLIPSE RAD dialog box.
4. Select another elliptic or circular entity. If you select an elliptic entity, click X
Radius or Y Radius from the ELLIPSE RAD dialog box. The entities are of equal
radii.
To Control the Display of Constraints (OFF)

2. Click Sec Tools on the SKETCHER menu. The SEC TOOLS menu appears.
3. Click Sec Environ and on the SEC ENVIRON menu, click the Disp Constr check
box to display the constraints.
Note: If you clear the Disp Constr check box, the constraints are not displayed.
Modifying a Section
To Delete Entities
1. Select the entities you want to delete.
Note: You can select multiple entities by holding down the CONTROL key while
selecting.
2. Click Edit > Delete. Pro/ENGINEER deletes the selected entities.
Note: You can also use the delete command by pressing DELETE.
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To Create Construction Entities

Use the Toggle Construction command in the Edit menu to create construction
entities. Construction entities are used for reference and are not used to create
feature geometry.
1. Select an entity.
2. Click Edit > Toggle Construction. Pro/ENGINEER converts the solid geometry
into construction geometry.
Note: To convert construction geometry into solid geometry follow Steps 1 and 2.
To Thicken a Wall Section In Sheetmetal Mode

1. Create the section sketch.
2. Click Sketch > Feature Tools > Thicken. Offset edges are automatically
created.
Note: At this point, you may consider converting system dimensions to strong
dimensions to insure that you have the correct dimensioning scheme.
3. Regenerate the sketch.
Modifying Sketcher Text
To Modify Sketcher Text

1. Click Edit > Modify.
2. Select the text that you want to modify. The Text dialog box opens.
3. Use the Text dialog box to modify text.
To Modify the Height and Orientation of Text

1. Click the start point or the end point of the construction line at the beginning of
the text flow.
2. Drag the start point or the end point to change the height and orientation of the
text.
Modifying a Spline
About Modifying a Spline

You can modify a spline by using the spline modification dashboard, right-mouse
click the spline for the shortcut menu, or moving interpolation points by holding
down the mouse button and moving them to desired locations. You can perform the
following modifications to splines:
• Move interpolation points.
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Sketcher
• Add points or vertices.
• Delete points or vertices.
• Manipulate a spline using control points.
• Create a control polygon.
• Delete a control polygon.
• Sparse a spline.
• Smooth a spline.
• Modify the coordinates of spline points.
• Read spline coordinates to a file.
• Get information about spline points.
• Interpret coordinate system as Cartesian.
• Interpret coordinate system as polar.
About the Spline Modification User Interface

To modify a spline:
• Double-click the spline.
• Select the spline and click Edit > Modify
• Select the spline, right-click in the sketcher window and click Modify.
Dashboard Slide-up Panel

The Spline modification tool displays the following dashboard slide-up panels:
• Point—Change the x and y coordinates for interpolation. Also, move points to an
absolute value or relative to the current value.
• Fit—Remove redundant data by the following methods:
o Sparse—remove within a deviation tolerance.
o Smooth—remove by averaging.
• File—From the File slide-up panel you can:
• Associate spline points with a coordinate system
• Read point coordinates from a file
• Save point coordinates
• Display coordinate information
• Change the coordinate system to Cartesian or Polar.
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Dashboard Dialog Bar

The dialog bar allows you to specify interpolation or control points when changing x
or y coordinates. In addition, you can perform the following functions:
• Click to create a control polygon.
• Click to modify spline using interpolation points.
• Click to modify spline using control points.
• Click to show a curvature analysis.
Shortcut Menu
In the Sketcher Window, you can select a point or curve and use the shortcut (right-
click) menu to access the following options:
• Add Point—Add a point.
• Delete Point—Delete a point (includes end points).
• Activate Query List—Open the Pick From List dialog box.
To Set the Curvature Display for a Spline

You can display the spline curvature and see how it dynamically updates as you
modify the spline.
1. Select the spline.
3. In the dialog bar, click .
4. Enter values or use the thumb wheels to adjust the Scale and Density.
5. Click OK to exit.
To Move Interpolation points

1. Click the interpolation point in the Sketcher window and drag it to a new location.
2. Repeat Step 1 to move other interpolation points.
To Add Points or Vertices

1. Select the spline you want to modify.
3. Right-click on a location on the spline. A shortcut menu appears.
4. Click Add Point.
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Sketcher
Note: You can extend a spline by clicking on an endpoint.
To Add an Endpoint
3. Press Ctrl + Alt and then click on a location in the Sketcher window. An end point
is added to the nearest endpoint.
To Delete Points or Vertices

3. Right-click the on point you want to delete. A shortcut menu appears.
4. Click Delete Point. The point is deleted.
To Use the Control Polygon Option

3. In the dialog bar, click . Pro/ENGINEER creates a control polygon around the
selected spline.
To Add a Point to a Control Polygon

1. Create a control polygon for the spline that you want to modify.
2. Right-click anywhere on the control polygon. A shortcut menu appears.
3. Click Add Point. A new point is added to the control polygon.
To Delete a Point From a Control Polygon

1. Create a control polygon for the spline that you want to modify.
2. Right-click on the point that you want to delete from the control polygon. A
shortcut menu appears.
3. Click Delete Point. The point is deleted from the control polygon.
To Move a Spline Along With the Control Polygon

Select any point on the spline, control polygon or an endpoint, and drag it to a new
location.
• If you select any point on the spline other than an endpoint, and drag, the spline
comes back to its original position.
77
• If you select an endpoint on the spline and drag,the spline and all the control
polygon entities scale and rotate as a single unit.
• If you select a vertex on the control polygon and drag, only the two adjacent
control polygon lines move.
To rotate a spline along with its control polygon, use Scale and Rotate from the
Edit menu.
To Sparse a Spline
3. Click Fit > Sparse.
4. Type the sparsity deviation value and click Apply.
To Smooth a Spline
3. Click Fit > Smooth.
4. Enter the number of points to use in averaging.
5. Click Apply.
To Modify the Coordinates of Spline Points

3. Click Point. The Coordinate values reference panel appears.
4. Select a point on the spline.
5. Enter new coordinates in the x and y boxes.
To Save Spline Coordinates to a File

You can save spline points to a file with values in cartesian or polar coordinate
systems.
2. Click Edit > Modify. The spline modification dashboard appears.
3. Click File. A dialog box appears.
4. Associate the spline to a local coordinate system.
78
Sketcher
5. Click . The Save A Copy dialog box opens.
6. Enter a file name.
7. Click OK. Pro/ENGINEER creates a spline point definition file with the coordinate
system type printed in the file. The spline point definition file is a standard text
file that you can edit using the operating system editor.
To Read in Spline Coordinates From a File

You can modify the coordinates of points on a spline by reading spline coordinates
from a file.
3. Click File. The dialog box appears.
5. Click . The Open dialog box appears.
6. Select a CAV Pts file and click Open. Pro/ENGINEER reads the data file and
modifies the spline coordinates of the selected spline to match.
Note: If the number of points in the file is not equal to the number of points in the
spline, Pro/ENGINEER asks if you want to continue. Respond "yes" to adjust the
number of spline points to correspond to the number of points in the file. Respond
"no" to abort the reading of the point file.
Tip: Reading in Spline Coordinates

If the spline does not appear as expected, you probably specified the wrong type of
coordinate system. Try reading in the file again and specifying a different type of
coordinate system.
If the spline endpoints are dimensioned, the system ignores the modifications to the
endpoint coordinates.
To Obtain Information about Spline Coordinates

1. Select the spline.
3. In the slide-up panel, click File.
5. Click . Pro/ENGINEER displays the current values for spline coordinates in the
Information Window.
79
To Manipulate a Spline by Its Coordinates (OFF)

When a spline has been associated to a local coordinate system, you can move the
spline points by entering values relative to the coordinate system. You can change
the type of coordinate system between Cartesian (X, Y, and Z), cylindrical (radius,
theta, and Z), and spherical (radius, theta, and phi) when you read or save points to
a file. However, when you enter new values from the keyboard, you can enter
Cartesian values only.
3. Click on the spline. The MOD SPLINE menu appears and the Pro/ENGINEER
displays the spline points. The following are available:
• Coords—Modify the x- and y- coordinates of the points by entering values.
• Read Pnts—Read in coordinates from a specified text file.
• Save Pnts—Write the current coordinates into a specified text file. You can then
edit and read this file using the option Read Pnts.
• Info Pnts—Display the coordinates of a spline in an Information window. You

must select the coordinate type you want used in the value display.
You can modify coordinates of endpoints and intermediate spline points as follows:
1. Modify the x,y, z coordinates and the tangency of the spline endpoints. Modifying
the endpoints alters the location of other spline points.
2. Modify the x, y, z coordinates of the intermediate spline points. You need to do

this only if the Pro/ENGINEER adjustments to the spline are not satisfactory, or if
the spline needs to be explicitly defined with specified input values.
To Specify New Values for Spline Coordinates (OFF)

You can modify the coordinates of points on a spline by entering their values from
the keyboard in two different ways.
3. Click Modify and then click on the spline. The MOD SPLINE menu appears and
the system displays the spline points.
4. Click Coords and select a point for which you want to enter new coordinates.
5. Type values for the x- and y- coordinates. You can enter a new value, or accept
the default one.
6. Click Done Modify to save the changes.
Note: For certain features, for example sweeps, you can also modify the z-
coordinates of a spline.
80
Sketcher
To Modify the Number of Spline Points (OFF)

3. Click on the spline. The MOD SPLINE menu appears and the system displays the
spline points.
To modify the number of spline points, use the following options in the MOD SPLINE
menu:
• Add Pnts — Add spline points. Select one of following from the NEW POINTS
menu:
o Interior—Add points to the interior of the spline. Select any location on the
spline between any two existing points.
o Exterior—Extend the spline by adding points beyond its current endpoints.

Select the spline endpoint that you want to extend, then click on a new
location for adding points.
Note: If you try to add a new spline point very close to an existing point,
Sketcher may tell you that the new point is too close to the existing point. In this
case, add the new point further away, then move it to the desired location.
• Delete Pnts— Delete interior spline points.
• Sparse—Decrease the number of points on a spline.
• Smooth—Make the spline smoother.
To Move a Point on a Spline Based on a Local Coordinate System

1. Select the spline that contains the point that you want to move.
4. Under Local coordinate system, click
5. Select a local coordinate system in the Sketcher window. The spline is associated
with the coordinate system that you have selected.
6. Select a point on the spline that you want to move. The coordinates of the point,
based on the local coordinate system, appear in the relevant boxes on the
Coordinate values reference panel.
7. Type new coordinates for the point that you want to move. The point moves to
the new location with respect to the local coordinate system.
Note: You can move points on the spline to another location with respect to a local
coordinate system only if Local coordinate system is selected on the Coordinate
values reference panel.
81
To Associate a Spline to a Coordinate System

1. Select the spline that you want to associate with a coordinate system.
4. Click .
5. Select a local coordinate system in the Sketcher window. The spline is associated
with the coordinate system that you have selected.
To Move a Range of Points on a Spline

1. Select the spline containing the point that you want to move.
3. Select a point on the spline and holding down the SHIFT key, select another point
on the spline. The two points define the limits for the range of points.
4. Within the defined range, select the point that you want to move and drag it to
the new location. The selected point moves to the new location. The part of the
spline that is enclosed within the range moves accordingly.
To Move a Spline Along With the Control Polygon (OFF)

1. To move a spline created with a control polygon, select Geom Tools from the
SKETCHER menu. The Geom Tools menu appears.
2. Click Move Entity and select from the following:
• Rotate90 or Drag Many—Moves the spline and the control polygon as a single
unit.
• Drag Item—Moves the spline in one of the following ways, depending on the
entities you select:
o If you select any point on the spline or the control polygon, except an
endpoint,and drag, the spline and all the entities belonging to its control
polygon move as a single unit.
o If you select an endpoint on the spline and drag,the spline and all the
control polygon entities scale and rotate as a single unit.
o If you select a vertex on the control polygon and drag, only the two
adjacent control polygon lines move.
82
Sketcher
Section Geometry Information
To Obtain Information About Section Geometry

Click Analysis and select from the following:
• Distance—Measure the distance between any two parallel lines, two points, or a
point and a line. The distance is displayed in the message window.
• Angle—Measure the angle between any two lines. Select the two lines. The angle
between the selected lines is displayed in the message window.
• Entity—Select the single entity about which to you want to obtain information.
The type of geometry and the endpoint tangencies are displayed.
• Intersection Point—Select two entities to determine their intersection points. If

the selected entities do not physically intersect, Sketcher extrapolates the entities
to find an intersection. If the extrapolated entities do not intersect (for example,
parallel lines), Pro/ Engineer displays a message. The angle of slope at the
intersection point for both entities is displayed in the message window.
• Tangency Point—Select two entities to determine where their slopes are equal.
The selected entities do not have to touch each other. Pro/ENGINEER displays the
angle of slope at the point of tangency and the distance between the two
tangency points.
• Curvature—Displays the curvature of splines in the section using the CRV

DISPLAY menu. The following are available:
o Select Curve—Select a curve for curvature analysis display.
o Scale—Change the scale of the curvature display.
o Density—Change the density of the curvature display.
Using a Coordinate System to Obtain Section Information (OFF)

For the options Entity, Intersection Point, and Tangency Point, you can select a
coordinate system to identify pertinent coordinate values for the Sketcher entities, as
follows:
2. Click Sec Tools on the SKETCHER menu. The SEC TOOLS menu appears.
3. Click Sec Info. The SEC INFO menu appears.
4. Select Entity, Intersection Point, or Tangency Point. The following are also
available:
• Use Csys—Select a coordinate system that you want to use to obtain coordinate
values of the entity. You can select only those Sketcher coordinate systems that
are created in the current sketch. When you select the coordinate system, it is
highlighted in magenta.
83
The coordinates of the Entity, Intersection Point and the Tangency Point are
displayed along with the information on section geometry.
Note: The coordinate system that you are using to obtain section information is
unselected if you do one of the following:
o Exit the SEC INFO menu.
o Click No Csys.
o Click Use Csys again and select another coordinate system.
o Select an option from the SEC INFO menu that does not require a
coordinate system.
• No Csys—The system does not give any coordinate values in the section
information. Pro/ENGINEER determines other information, such as length or
angles, relative to the sketch coordinate system. The sketch coordinate system
has the x-axis along the horizontal and the y-axis along the vertical.
Creating a Feature Section
About Using Sketcher to Create a Feature Section

When you create features, often you must create sections to define the feature
geometry. When you sketch sections on a part, sketch only what is necessary to do
the job. If you do not want to create a new surface, do not sketch a line in the
section, and leave the section open. If Pro/ENGINEER has problems intersecting the
feature with the part, you must close the section.
When sketching on the model, you use the same tools as standalone Sketcher, plus
additional techniques.
Note:
• In Pro/PIPING, you can use the centerlines of pipe segments as references in the
3-D Sketcher just as you use curves in the following descriptions.
• You cannot import any IGES features into Sketcher environment.
To Create a Feature Section (basic)

The following basic procedure outlines how to create a feature section when working
with the part.
1. Select and orient the sketching plane.
Note: When you create a new feature, the system automatically selects default
Sketcher references. You can change these references or create new ones in the
References dialog box.
2. Sketch the section geometry. If you have specified appropriate references, the
section is complete after sketching.
84
Sketcher
3. Refine the section. You may wish to change the dimensioning scheme or to apply
additional constraints.
4. Optionally, you may want to save the section.
Note:
• It is important to specify the right references before sketching so that Sketcher
can create appropriate dimensions and constraints to position the section with
respect to the part or assembly geometry.
• If you select Sketch before selecting sufficient references, Sketcher issues a

warning.
To Enter Sketcher Environment (basic)

Before you start creating a feature section, the system prompts you to do the
following:
• Select a sketching plane.
• Specify the direction of feature creation.
• Orient the sketching plane.
After the sketching plane is defined, the system automatically places you in Sketcher
so you can start creating the section.
To Specify and Orient the Sketching Plane

1. Click Insert > Model Datum > Sketch. The Sketch dialog box opens.
2. Specify the following:
o Sketch Plane—Contains the Plane field. Select a planar surface or a

datum plane to be used as the sketching plane.
o Sketch Orientation—You can orient the sketching plane to make it normal

to the sketching window.
Click Flip to switch the sketch orientation between two sides of the
sketching plane.
Click the Reference box to select or redefine the sketching plane.
Select a direction from the Orientation box for referencing the sketching
plane.
Tip: Orienting the Sketching Plane

If you are creating a feature that is not aligned with the existing edges of the part,
you may want to create a datum plane as a horizontal or vertical reference that will
be added. This is especially useful when you create radial feature patterns. When
you create a datum plane as a reference, first select the direction you want the plane
85
to represent (Top, Bottom, and so on) and then create it. The yellow side of the
datum plane will face towards the specified side of the screen.
Defining References for a Section

When you sketch a 3-D section, Sketcher must position the section with respect to
part geometry by using dimensions and constraints to reference entities. To establish
a reference entity, you must select model geometry (for example, part edge).
Sketcher then projects the selected reference onto the sketching plane and makes its
position "known."
It is recommended that you create reference entities immediately upon entering
Sketcher. Then, when you sketch geometry, it will snap to the "known" model
references.
The model references that you select determine the dimensioning scheme for
locating the section.
Additionally, you can make an entity "known" to Sketcher by:
• Selecting an entity as a reference for dimensioning
• Selecting an entity as a reference for an operation (trimming, filleting, and so on)
• Creating entities with the Use Edge or Offset Edge commands
• Creating reference entities with the X Sec option
If you add known entities after you create some geometry, the system may add
some weak constraints to resolve the section.
You can delete known entities with the Delete command. When you exit Sketcher,
unused model references are deleted.
Sketcher Hints
Sketcher Hints
Consider the following hints for using Sketcher.
• When you create fillets between non-horizontal and non vertical lines, create a
point at the intersection of the lines to dimension to theoretical sharps.
• You can tell Sketcher specifically which dimensions to lock or unlock by using the
Toggle Lock command in the Edit menu. Notice that as you pick a dimension to
lock, the letter "L" is added in front of the dimension value.
• You may also lock all dimensions with the Toggle Lock command and then click
Edit > Toggle Lock to selectively unlock dimensions that you allow to change
during dragging. Notice that when you select a locked dimension and click Edit >
Toggle Lock, it becomes unlocked and the letter "L" is removed from the
dimension value.
• When you lock all dimensions in Sketcher mode, you cannot change the
section,you can only drag the section around.
86
Sketcher
To Resolve a Conflict
When you add a dimension or constraint that conflicts or is redundant with existing
strong dimensions or constraints, Sketcher highlights dimensions and constraints in
conflict and asks you to remove one of the highlighted constraints or dimensions.
Use the following options from the Resolve Sketch dialog box when you resolve the
conflict:
• Undo—Undo changes to bring the section to the state it was in just before the
action that lead to the conflict. The Redo command is not available after you
choose Undo, because the last operation was not finished.
• Delete—Select a constraint or dimension to remove.
• Dim > Ref—Select a dimension to convert to a reference.
Note: The Dim > Ref command is only available if there are dimensions in
conflict.
• Explain—Select a constraint to get a description of the constraint. Sketcher

highlights entities associated with this constraint.
87
Index
A associate...................................82
Accuracy ..................................... 26 creating ....................................36
Arc Coordinate System ........................36
creating.................................... 33 Creating Geometry
Arc ............................................. 33 arc ...........................................33
Axis Point axis point ..................................36
creating.................................... 36 centerline ..................................29
Axis Point .................................... 36 circle ........................................30
C conic ........................................32
Centerline coordinate system ......................36
creating.................................... 29 ellipse .......................................31
Centerline.................................... 29 Elliptical Fillet.............................35
Circle fillet arc ....................................34
creating.................................... 30 line...........................................29
Circle .......................................... 30 rectangle...................................30
Conic spline .......................................35
creating.................................... 32 text ..........................................37
Conic .......................................... 32 Creating Geometry .28, 29, 30, 31, 32,

33, 34, 35, 36, 37
Constraing Geometry .................... 70
D
Constraints
Dimensioning
display of....................... 70, 71, 73
display of ..................................52
supported ................................. 71
negative dimensions ...................54
to create................................... 72
number of decimal places displayed
to delete................................... 72
.............................................54
to obtain information about ......... 73
to create dimensions...................51
to strengthen ............................ 72
to modify ..................................53
Constraints .................. 70, 71, 72, 73
to replace..................................53
Control Polygon .......................77, 82
to strengthen.............................52
Coordinate System
89
Dimensioning ............... 51, 52, 53, 54 Ellipse .........................................31
Dimensioning a Conic F
dimension by endpoints .............. 61 Feature Section
tangency dimension ................... 61 datum planes.............................85
three point dimension................. 62 references .................................86
using rho .................................. 62 sketching plane ..........................85
Dimensioning a Conic ...............61, 62 to create ...................................84
Dimensioning a Spline to enter sketcher........................85
dimension interpolation points ..... 60 Feature Section..................84, 85, 86
linear dimensions....................... 59 Fillet Arc
radius of curvature dimension...... 60 creating ....................................34
tangency dimensions.................. 59 elliptical fillet .............................35
Dimensioning a Spline ..............59, 60 Fillet Arc ......................................34
Dimensions I
angle dimension between lines .... 58 Import.........................................49
angle dimension for an arc .......... 57 Intent Manager
angular..................................... 57 conflict resolution .......................87
conic ........................................ 61 right mouse button shortcut menu 15
diameter................................... 55 specifying model ........................86
elliptical fillet............................. 66 terminology ................................ 7
linear ....................................... 55 Intent Manager .............................. 7
ordinate.................................... 65 L
perimeter ................................. 63 Line
radial ....................................... 55 creating ....................................29
reference .................................. 64 Line.............................................29
Dimensions............ 55, 63, 64, 65, 66 Locking Dimensions .......................54
Divide ......................................... 44 M
E Mirror
Ellipse to mirror geometry .....................44
creating.................................... 31 Mirror ..........................................44
rules for creating ..................31, 32 Modifying a Section
90
Index
construction entities ................... 74 Spline
to delete................................... 73 add points .................................76
Modifying a Section....... 54, 66, 73, 74 control polygon ..........................77
Moving creating ....................................35
moving an entity ..................66, 68 curvature display........................76
moving dimensions .................... 68 delete points..............................77
to scale and rotate ..................... 66 manipulate ................................80
Moving ...................................66, 68 modifying .......................74, 75, 81
O move interpolation points .76, 81, 82
Offset Edge obtain info.................................79
to create geometry with.............. 41 read coordinates ........................79
using select chain options ........... 41 save coordinates ........................78
Offset Edge.............................40, 41 smooth .....................................78
R sparse ......................................78
Rectangle Spline.............. 35, 74, 76, 77, 78, 79
creating.................................... 30 T
Rectangle .................................... 30 Text
S height .......................................74
Section modify ......................................74
incomplete section ..................... 50 Text ...................................... 37, 74
obtain info ................................ 83 Trim ............................................42
to dimension ............................. 50 U
to retrieve a section ................... 49 Use Edge
Section ............................ 49, 50, 83 creating reference entities ...........39
Sketcher Selection Filter to create geometry with ..............38
example ................................... 45 Use Edge .....................................38
Sketcher Selection Filter ................ 44
91

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Parametric Technology Corporation

Using Sketcher with Intent Manager ............................................................... 7

About Sketcher Mode with the Intent Manager .............................................. 7

Functionality Map .....................................................................................10

To Create a Section in 2-D Sketcher ...........................................................15

To Access the Right Mouse Button Shortcut Menu .........................................15

Configuring for Sketcher ..............................................................................16

About Sketcher Configuration Options.........................................................16

To Set Sketcher Configuration Options ........................................................16

Setting Sketcher Environment ......................................................................22

About Sketcher Preferences.......................................................................22

To Set Constraint Preferences ....................................................................23

To Set Display Preferences ........................................................................23

To Set Sketcher Parameters ......................................................................24

Working with the Sketcher Grid..................................................................24

To Set Sketcher Color ...............................................................................26

To Change Sketcher Accuracy ....................................................................26

To Change Sketcher Accuracy (OFF) ...........................................................26

To Change the Anchor Point (OFF)..............................................................26

About References .....................................................................................27

To Create References with the X sec Option .................................................28

To Create References for a Section .............................................................28

Creating Sketcher Geometry ........................................................................28

About Creating Geometry in Sketcher .........................................................28

To Create a Line ......................................................................................29

To Create a Centerline ..............................................................................29

To Create a Line Tangent to Two Entities.....................................................29

To Create a Centerline Tangent to Two Entities ............................................30

To Create a Circle ....................................................................................30

To Create a Circle Tangent to Three Entities ................................................31

To Create a Circle Through Three Points ......................................................31

Rules for Creating an Ellipse ......................................................................32

To Create an Arc ......................................................................................33

Example: Creating an Arc using a Target.....................................................33

To Create a Fillet Arc ................................................................................34

Sketching a Fillet Arc ................................................................................34

Example: Fillet Arcs..................................................................................34

To Create an Arc Tangent to Three Entities ..................................................35

To Create an Elliptical Fillet .......................................................................35

Using a Coordinate System........................................................................35

To Create a Coordinate System ..................................................................36

To Interpret a Coordinate System as Cartesian or Polar.................................36

Creating an Axis Point...............................................................................36

To Create an Axis Point .............................................................................36

To Create Text in Sketcher ........................................................................37

Creating Geometry from Model Edges .........................................................38

Creating Geometry with the Offset Edge Option ...........................................40

Manipulating Sketcher Geometry ..................................................................42

About Dividing and Trimming Entities .........................................................42

To Trim and Extend Entities.......................................................................42

To Trim Entities to Each Other ...................................................................42

To Trim Entities by an Incremental Length (OFF)..........................................42

To Trim Entities to a Bounding Entity (OFF) .................................................42

To Trim Entities to a Specific Length (OFF) ..................................................43

To Intersect Entities (OFF) ........................................................................43

To Use the Delete Segment Command ........................................................43

To Divide Entities .....................................................................................44

Mirroring Geometry ..................................................................................44

To Mirror Geometry ..................................................................................44

Sketcher Selection Filter ..............................................................................44

About the Sketcher Selection Filter .............................................................44

To Use the Sketcher Selection Filter............................................................45