How to Add MV Parts to Catalogs
Adding multi-view parts to an AutoCAD catalog is useful when creating a three-dimensional database of solid objects. The purpose of using computer-assisted drafting is to accurately convey dimensions, shapes and other engineering These objects can then be inserted into technical or training manuals, or used as a guide for programming CNC machines. Adding parts and devices can prove a little time-consuming, but often is vital to the evolution of a new product or part design.
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Instructions
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Create a 3D solid model of the new part you are adding in Content Builder. This is a simple three-dimensional raw shape of the device.
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Create a unique name for the new device to prevent confusion in the catalog in the Block Definition screen. Remember that many parts in many devices have very similar parameters and base descriptions. Take a little time to identify the parts in the block, since you will need to reference them later in the process.
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Click in sequence "Menu," "CAD Manager," "Content Editing" then "Content Builder."
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Click on the "Multi-view Part Tab" option in the "Part Catalog" header. Click on "New Block Part" within the correct catalog entry point for your new device.
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Enter unique values in the "Name" and "Description" boxes to reduce part confusion. Click on "OK" when complete.
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Choose the type of part from the selections in the subsequent menu. Identify the "Layer Key" and "Subtype" for your part. Click "Next" when this is done.
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Click on the "Add Part Size" option. Select the new blocks you created earlier.
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Click on the "Generate Blocks" option. Move to the "All Directions" selection, and click "OK," then "Next."
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Find a stored isometric image from the database. Resize the image to 200 by 200 pixels if necessary.
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Right-click on "Part Name." Choose "Add (x) Connector." Enter the appropriate "Name," "Flow Direction," and other relevant values for the connection. These values are found in existing parts catalogs or from engineering datasheets. Press "OK" when complete.
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Right-click on the values you entered for "Connections" and select "Edit Placement" from the drop-down folder list.
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Make changes as needed to "Position" and "Normal" values as necessary. Click "Next" to move on.
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Enter the values for "Size" and "Connection Type" as required. Click "OK," then "Next" to exit and move forward in the process.
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Click on the "Edit Properties" option. Choose "New" from the options. Select "Custom Data 1." Enter the values tor the new MV part. Click "OK."
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Enter the appropriate values for "Description," "Data Storage," "Data Type," "Units" and "Visibility." This must be done for every unit you add to the catalog.
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Examine "Values" list. Make changes as required to the values of the part that has a "Constant," "List," or "Table" parameter. Repeat the process under the "Calculations" header.
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Double-check that everything is correct. Click "OK" after verifying all fields are correctly entered to add the new part to the catalog database.
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Tips & Warnings
Adding a part in 2-D will prevent it from allowing more than one view. The purpose of 3-D is to facilitate the multi-view feature's correct operation.
You can right-click on a block and convert it automatically to an "MV Part." However, this does not enter part into the catalog. This may prove confusing and redundant later on.
References
Resources
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