CATIA V5 Fundamentals - Lesson 2: Profile Creation

CATIA V5 Fundamentals - Lesson 2: Profile Creation
Student Notes:
Lesson 2: Profile Creation

In this lesson, you will learn how to create a simple part.
Lesson content:
Copyright DASSAULT SYSTEMES
Case Study: Profile Creation

Design Intent
Stages in the Process
Create a New Part
Select Appropriate Sketch Support
Create Sketched Geometry
Constrain the Sketch
Create Pad Feature
Saving and Closing Documents
Duration: Approximately 0.33 day
Lesson Content
2-1

Student Notes:
The case study for this lesson is the support plaque used in the drill support assembly
shown below. The support plaque is part of the Drill Support sub-assembly. The focus of
this case study is the creation of a profile that incorporates the design intent for the part.
2-2

Student Notes:
Design Intent
The support plaque must meet the following design intent
requirements:
The model must be created in one feature.
While this is not typical practice, in this case it
is a requirement.
The smaller holes must be 30mm away from

the center hole.
Constraining the three small holes on a
construction circle that is 60mm in diameter will
ensure this requirement is met.
The center hole must remain in the center of

the support.
This requirement can be met by creating a
rectangular profile symmetric about part origin
and locating the center of the circle
(representing the hole) at the origin.
The model must be saved with the name

Support_Plaque.
2-3

Student Notes:
Stages in the Process

The following steps will be used to create the Support Plaque:
Create a new part.
Select an appropriate sketch support.
Create sketched geometry.
Constrain the sketch.
Create the pad feature.
Save and close the document.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
2-4

Student Notes:
Step 1: Create a New Part

In this section, you will learn about
part design and how to create a new
part file.
Use the following steps to
create the Support Plaque:
1. Create a new part.
2. Select an appropriate sketch

support.
3. Create sketched geometry.
4. Constrain the sketch.
5. Create the pad feature.
6. Save and close the document.
2-5

Student Notes:
Creating a New Part

1a
When creating a new model, the Part Design

workbench is automatically activated. When a
part is saved, it is saved with a .CATPart
extension to distinguish it from other CATIA
documents.
Use the following method to create a new part
file:
1. Use any of the following:
a.
b.
c.
Click Start > Mechanical Design > Part

design.
Click File > New and select Part from the
New dialog box.
Select the New icon from the Standard
toolbar and select Part from the New
dialog box.
1b
2. Enter a name for the part.

3. Select OK.
1c
3
2-6

Student Notes:
Part Design Workbench
A new part contains only three default reference planes. These default reference planes are
always the first elements in the specification tree and are used as a basis for feature creation.
Many of the tools are

grayed out. Only
features that build
material are available to
create the first feature
with (i.e., the Pocket
option is not available
because there is no
solid material in the
model to remove yet).
2-7
Step 2: Select an Appropriate Sketch Support
Student Notes:
In this section, you will learn what a

sketch support is and how to select
an appropriate sketch support.
2. Select an appropriate
sketch support.
3.
4.
5.
6.

2-8

Student Notes:
Reference Planes
The default reference planes are the first three
features in any part file. Their names are derived
from the plane they are parallel to, relative to the
part coordinate system:
C
A
A. XY plane
B. YZ plane
C. ZX plane
The reference planes provide a planar reference

on which to create the first sketch.
Profile is sketched on the ZX plane.
2-9

Student Notes:
What is a Sketch?
The Sketcher
workbench is not a
standalone workbench.
It is accessed from
within other
workbenches such as
the Part Design
workbench.
Every new part begins with a 2D profile. This

profile can be created using the Sketcher
workbench.
The Sketcher workbench is a 2D workspace.

The elements created within Sketcher are
exclusively 2D WIREFRAME elements.
In the Part Design workbench, the geometry

created in Sketcher is seen as a single
sketch. This sketch is used to create 3D
features inside the Part Design workbench.
Sketches are constrained so that they can be

quickly modified by simply altering
dimensions.
2-10

Student Notes:
Sketch Support (1/2)
The sketch support for

your first feature can
also be a user defined
reference plane
(discussed in a later
lesson).
Sketch support
A sketch support is the plane on which the

sketch is created.
The sketch support must be planar.
You can create a sketch on a reference plane
or on a planar face of any existing geometry.
Sketch
The profile for the first feature of a model

must be created on a reference plane.
Typically, the first feature in the model is
created on one of the default reference
planes.
Sketches can be
extruded to created
solid geometry.
2-11

Student Notes:
Sketch Support (2/2)

The default orientation of the model depends
on which reference plane is selected for the
sketch support.
Profile sketched
on the XY plane
The YZ plane is considered the front view of

the part, as defined by the quick views
discussed in Lesson 1.
When selecting the sketch support, consider
the orientation of the profile that you are
creating.
Profile sketched
on the YZ plane
For example, you have to select a different

sketch plane if you are creating a side profile,
as opposed to a front profile for the 3D
geometry.
Profile sketched
on the ZX plane
2-12

Student Notes:
Step 3: Create Sketched Geometry

In this section, you will learn how to
access the Sketcher workbench and
how to create sketched geometry.
support.

6. Save and close the document.
2-13

Student Notes:
Basic Sketching
Sketched profiles are created inside the Sketcher

workbench. Use the following steps to access the
Sketcher workbench within another workbench:
1. Select a planar sketch support.
2. Select the Sketcher icon from any workbench
where it is possible to create a sketch (such as
the Part Design workbench), or click Start >
Mechanical Design > Sketcher.
3. CATIA launches the Sketcher workbench.
2-14

Student Notes:
Sketcher Workbench
The Sketcher workbench is an environment
built to facilitate the creation of the 2D Profiles.
The workbench includes the following key
features:
A. The Grid, which guides you while you create

the profiles.
B. The Profile toolbar, which is used to create
geometry.
C. The Constraint toolbar, which is used to
dimension and constrain your sketch.
D. The Sketch Tools toolbar, which is a floating
toolbar (default) that displays options
available during geometry creation. The
options within this toolbar vary depending on
the geometry being created.
D
C
2-15

Student Notes:
Grid
By default, a grid is applied to the background
of the Sketcher workbench. This grid helps
define the scale of sketched entities.
When sketching, the mouse cursor snaps to the
points of the grid. This functionality can be
disabled temporarily by deactivating the Snap
to Point icon.
Snap to Point
Inactive
Snap to Point
Active
Options for the grid can be controlled in Tools >

Options > Mechanical Design > Sketcher.
You can:
A. Toggle the display of the grid.
B. Permanently activate/deactivate the Snap to
Point option.
C. Change the values for both the Primary
spacing and Graduations.
Graduations
Primary Spacing
2-16

Student Notes:
Geometry Creation
Sketched geometry is created using the tools
available in the Profile toolbar:
A
B
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
User-Defined Profile
Pre-defined Profiles
Circles
Splines
Ellipses and Parabolas
Lines
Axes
Points
C
D
E
F
G
H
The Operation toolbar can be used to modify

existing sketched geometry. In this lesson, you
will learn how to use the following relimitation
tools:
I. Corners
J. Chamfers
I
J
2-17

Student Notes:
Points
Points are used when

creating User Patterns
and can be helpful as a
bases for surface and
wireframe geometry.
Description
Point by
Clicking
Create a point by clicking locations on the sketch.
Point by
Coordinates
Create a point by defining its coordinates in the 2D space

of the sketch.
Equidistant
Points
Create as many points as required, which are distributed

equidistantly on an existing curve. Once created, the
points are considered separate entities.
Intersection
Point
Create the intersection point between two existing

curves.
Projection
Point
Project an existing point onto an existing curve. The

projection can be normal to the curve or along a
direction.
Icon
2-18

Student Notes:
Lines
Icon
Geometry
Typically, infinite lines

are used as construction
elements to aid in
constraining the sketch.
Description
Line
Create a line by clicking two points to define its

extremities.
Infinite line
Create an infinite line by clicking two points to

define its direction.
Bi-tangent
line
Create a line tangent to two existing curves.
Bisecting
Line
Create a line bisecting two existing lines.
Line Normal
to Curve
Create a line normal to an existing curve. Create

the line by selecting an end point and the curve
the line is to be normal to.
Lines normal to a curve

are created as close as
possible to where you
clicked on the curve.
Before clicking the
curve, position the line
as perpendicular to the
curve as possible.
A Sketcher element is based on points. As a

result, each time you create geometry in the
Sketcher workbench, points are implicitly created.
Sketched geometry is added to the specification
tree under the Geometry branch of the sketch.
2-19

Student Notes:
Circles
Icon
Geometry
Description
Circle
Create a circle by defining its center and

its radius.
Three Point
Circle
Create a circle passing through three

points.
Circle
by Coordinates
Create a circle by giving the coordinates

of its center relative to the sketch origin
and its radius.
Tri tangent
Circle
Create a circle tangent to three existing

curves.
Three Point Arc
Create an arc passing through three

points, relimited by the first and the last
selected points.
Three point arc

starting with
limits
Create an arc passing through three

points, relimited by the first and the
second selected points.
Arc
Create an arc by defining its center and

the two limit points.
2-20

Student Notes:
Ellipse, Parabola, Hyperbola, and Spline

Icon
Geometry
Description
Ellipse
1
Create an ellipse by selecting its

center point, then defining its
major and minor diameter by
clicking two points.
Parabola
by Focus
1
Hyperbola
by focus
1
Spline
Create a Parabola by selecting:

Focus point
Summit
Relimiting points (end points)
Create an Hyperbola by selecting:
Focus and center points
Summit
Relimiting points (end points)
Create a spline curve passing

through as many points as
required.
End the spline by double-clicking.
2-21

Student Notes:
Conics
After the Conic icon is selected, several tools appear in the
Sketch Tools toolbar that contol its creation.
Icon
Geometry
Two point
conic with end
tangents
Description
4
2
5
1
Two point
conic with
tangent
intersection
Four point
conic with one
tangent
3
4
5
1
4
3
Create by selecting:
Two end points
A point which defines the tangent
intersection
A mid-point
Two end points
Two mid points and define one
tangency at the first or last point
3
Five point
conic
A first end point and define its
tangency
A second end point and its tangency
A mid-point
Two end points
Three mid-points
2-22

Student Notes:
Pre-defined Profiles (1/2)

Icon
Geometry
Rectangle
Oriented
Rectangle
Parallelogram
Elongated
Hole
Cylindrical
Elongated
Hole
Description
Create a rectangle by clicking its two

opposite corners.
Create a rectangle by defining two

consecutive corners to define its
orientation, and a third corner to give it
a thickness.
Create a parallelogram by defining
two consecutive corners, and a third
corner to give it thickness and angle.
Create an elongated hole by defining
a segment as its axis, and defining its
thickness.
4
Create a cylindrical elongated hole by

defining an arc as its axis, and
defining its thickness.
2-23

Student Notes:
Pre-defined Profiles (2/2)

Icon
Geometry
Keyhole
Hexagon
3
2
1
Create a keyhole by defining the

center of the large circle, the radius of
the large circle, the center of the small
circle, and the radius of the small
circle.
Create a hexagon by defining its
center and a point on the hexagon.
Create a centered rectangle by
defining its center and two points to
define its height and width.
Centered
Parallelogram
Centered
Rectangle
Description
Create a centered parallelogram

select the first line, select the second
line and click to define its dimensions.
The parallelogram is centered on the
intersection of the two lines. Its edges
are parallel to the selected lines.
Once created, pre-defined profiles

are divided into elements. For
example, a rectangle is divided into
four lines and four points (located at
the corners).
2-24

Student Notes:
User-defined Profiles
Use the following steps to create a profile:
Step
Geometry
Description
1. Start the
profile.
Line
Three Point Arc
2. Create the
profile.
Line
3. End the
profile.
Tangent Arc
Three Point Arc
The profile can start with a

segment using the Line
option, or with an arc using
the Three points arc option.
You can go on with the profile
using segments (Line option),
tangent arcs (Tangent arc), or
non-tangent arcs (Three
points arc).
End a closed profile by
selecting the first point.
End an open profile by
double-clicking.
2-25

Student Notes:
Introduction to Re-limitations
Icon
Geometry
You will learn the other

re-limitation elements in
a later lesson.
Description
Create a corner shape between the
two selected lines.
Chamfer
Create a chamfer between the two

selected lines.
Corner
2-26

Student Notes:
Construction Geometry
An element can be
toggled between a
construction element
and a normal element at
any time by highlighting
the element(s) and
selecting the
Construction/Standard
icon.
Construction geometry is created within a

sketch to aid in profile creation. Unlike
standard sketched geometry, construction
geometry does not appear outside the
Sketcher workbench.
A sketched element is created as a
construction element when the
Construction/Standard Element icon
(located in the Sketch Tools toolbar) is
highlighted. Construction geometry is created
using the same techniques as standard
sketched geometry, and is distinguished from
standard elements by its dashed format.
Construction
geometry
In this example, the construction

of a symmetrical shapes was
aided by the use of construction
geometry.
2-27

Student Notes:
Recommendations for Sketching
In this section, you will be given some recommendations that may help when
creating sketches.
2-28

Student Notes:
Creating a Profile: Which are the Best Tools to Use?

When creating a sketched profile, many tools can be
used.
Two frequently asked questions are:
Which are the best tools to use?

How complex should sketches be?
1
You could create
individual lines,
then use the trim
tool to create the
final shape desired.
It is often more efficient to create the shape using the

Profile tool (or the Predefined Profile tools).
Consider using individual points or only lines when
you need to complete or modify a shape.
2
Click
Click
Click
Click
Click
Click
2-29

Student Notes:
How Complex Should Sketches Be? (1/2)
You can create rounded or chamfered edges on

features in one of the following two ways:
A. Create a complex sketch including the corners

and chamfers this kind of feature updates
faster; however, complex sketches are harder
to edit and modify.
B. Create simple sketches and add the corners

and chamfers afterward it takes more time to
update this kind of feature; however, corners
and chamfers can be easily reordered,
deactivated, or suppressed if necessary.
Including the corners and chamfers in the sketch or

adding them afterwards depends on the design
intent of the model. Downstream applications and
company standards must also be considered.
2-30

Student Notes:
How Complex Should Sketches Be? (2/2)

Sketches can contain multiple domains. Inside
closed profiles represent pockets in the material.
Although this is a valid method of constructing the

geometry, it is often good design practice to create
the pocket as a separate feature. This allows for
greater flexibility in the model and makes
modification simpler.
Multi domain Sketch
Design intent and company standards will dictate

which practice you will choose.
Two single domain sketches
2-31
Exercise 2A
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
15 min
In this exercise, you will construct various geometric elements in the Sketcher
workbench. This exercise will help you understand the sketcher tools and get a better
feel for the Sketcher workbench. Sketches will be created without any consideration
to constraints. Detailed instruction for this exercise is provided.
By the end of this exercise you will be able to:
Open a new part
Access the Sketcher workbench
Create lines, pre-defined profiles, user-defined profiles, and chamfers.
Close a file without saving.
Exercise 2A
2-32

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (1/9)
1. Create new part.
Select Part from the New dialog box to
create a new part file.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Click File > New.

Choose Part from the New dialog box.
Select OK.
Leave the default name and select OK.
1b
2. Launch the Sketcher workbench.

Sketches are created in the Sketcher
workbench. It is accessed by choosing
a sketch support and selecting the
Sketcher icon.
a. Select plane XY as the sketch

support.
b. Select the Sketcher icon.
3. Turn off Automatic constraints.

Constraints will be taught in the next section;
disable them for now.
a. Ensure the Geometrical constraint icon is not
highlighted. If it is, select it again to disable it.
b. Ensure the Dimensional constraint icon is not
highlighted. If it is, select it again to disable it.
1d
1c
2b
2a
3a
3b
Ensure Geometrical and

Dimensional constraints are
not highlighted, as shown.
Exercise 2A
2-33

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (2/9)
4. Create a rectangle.
The first shape is a rectangle. Create the
sketch using the pre-defined profile tool for
rectangles.
a. Select the Rectangle icon from the Profile

toolbar.
b. Click anywhere on the screen to locate the top
left corner of the rectangle.
c. Drag the cursor down and to the right to locate
the bottom right corner of the rectangle.
4a
4b
4c
Exercise 2A
2-34

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (3/9)
5a
5. Create a chamfer.
A chamfer is added to the profile using a
relimitation tool.
a. Select the Chamfer icon from the Operation
toolbar. Notice the Sketch Tools toolbar
expands to display the options available for
chamfer creation.
b. Select the left edge of the rectangle.
c. Select the top edge of the rectangle.
d. Place the chamfer by dragging the curser to
the desired location and clicking the left
mouse to place it.
5b
5c
5d
Exercise 2A
2-35

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (4/9)
6. Create a circle.
Sketch the next shape using the circle
icon.
6a
a. Select the Circle icon from the Profile

toolbar.
b. Click a point on the screen that defines
the center of the circle.
c. Drag the cursor outwards to define the
radius of the circle.
7. Create a line profile.

A horizontal line is sketched using the Line
icon.
a. Select the Line icon from the Profile
toolbar.
b. Click on the screen to define the starting
point of the line and drag the cursor.
c. Select another point on the screen to
define the end of the line.
6b
6c
7a
7b
7c
Exercise 2A
2-36

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (5/9)
8. Create a keyhole profile.
1. A pre-defined keyhole profile is added using
the Keyhole Profile icon.
a. Select the Keyhole Profile icon from the

Profile toolbar. Review the message bar
and notice that it prompts you for the
required inputs to create the feature.
b. Click anywhere on the screen to define
the center of the larger circle and drag
the cursor downwards.
c. Click on the screen to define the center of
the small radius.
d. Drag the cursor horizontally outwards to
define the radius of the small circle, then
click the left mouse button to accept the
size.
e. Drag the cursor horizontally again to
define the radius of the large circle, then
click the left mouse button to accept the
size.
8a
8b
8c
8e
8d
Exercise 2A
2-37

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (6/9)
9. Create a user-defined profile.
1. Create a user-defined profile using the
Profile tool.
a. Select the Profile icon from the Profile

toolbar.
b. Notice that the default icon selected in
the Sketch Tools toolbar is Line. Click
anywhere on the screen to define the
starting point of the line and drag the
cursor.
c. Pick another point on the screen that
defines the end of the line.
d. Create an arc that is tangent to the line
by selecting the Tangent Arc icon.
e. Drag the cursor out to define the radius
of the arc and click the left mouse
button to complete the arc. Notice that
the profile toolbar defaults back to the
Line tool.
9a
9b
9c
9e
9d
Exercise 2A
2-38

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (7/9)
9.
Create a user-defined profile (continued).

f.
g.
h.
i.
9f
Create another line, as shown.

Close the profile by selecting the Three
Point Arc icon.
Click the left mouse button to define a
point on the arc.
Click on the start of the profile to act as
the end point of the arc. Notice that the
Profile tool automatically completes.
9h
9i
9g
Exercise 2A
2-39

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (8/9)
10. Create a construction line.
Convert existing geometry into
construction elements using the
Construction/Standard Element icon.
a.
b.
c.
d.
10a
Highlight on the four segments of the

profile (press and hold the <Ctrl> key to
select multiple items).
Select the Construction/Standard
Element icon from the Sketcher Tools
toolbar.
Click anywhere on the screen to deselect
the geometry.
Select the Construction/Standard
Element icon again to disable to the tool.
10b
10c
10d
Exercise 2A
2-40

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A (9/9)
11. Create additional geometry.
Try creating the geometry shown using

the appropriate tools.
12. Close the sketch.
a.
b.
Click File > Close.

Select No to the Close warning dialog
box.
11
12b
Exercise 2A
2-41

Student Notes:
Exercise 2A: Recap

Create a new part file
Select the XY plane as sketch support
Create sketch geometry
Close the document without saving
Exercise 2A
2-42
Exercise 2B
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
15 min
In this exercise, you will create a sketched profile. High-level

instruction for this exercise is provided.

Create a new part
Access the sketcher workbench
Create geometry using the profile tool
Create a corner
Exercise 2B
2-43

Student Notes:
Exercise 2B (1/2)
1. Create new part.
2. Use the YZ reference plane as the sketch
support and access the Sketcher workbench.
3. Ensure the automatic constraints (located on
the Sketcher Tools toolbar) are not
highlighted.
4. Create Profile shown using the Profile icon.
Exercise 2B
2-44

Student Notes:
Exercise 2B (2/2)
5. Create the corner.
6. Close the document without saving.
Exercise 2B
2-45

Student Notes:
Exercise 2B: Recap

Select the YZ plane as sketch support
Create sketched geometry
The sketch created in this exercise could

be used to create a revolved feature, as
shown below. You will learn how to create
revolved features in Lesson 4.
Exercise 2B
2-46
Exercise 2C
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
10 min
In this exercise, you will create a profile consisting of several shapes. You
will use the tools from previous exercises to complete the exercise.

Create a new part
Access the sketcher workbench
Create geometry

CAUTION: To simplify the exercise, the sketch will contain several closed contours which represent both the
external shape of the 3D part including fillets, and the internal forms - the holes and pockets. In a general, for
complex parts, it may be recommended to simplify the sketches and use more dedicated 3D features like
fillets, chamfers, holes, drafts (etc.) in order to fit better with the design and manufacturing intents.
Exercise 2C
2-47

Student Notes:
Exercise 2C
1. Create the profile shown, using the ZX

plane as the sketch support.
Exercise 2C
2-48

Student Notes:
Exercise 2C: Recap

Select the ZX plane as sketch support
You can create the outside profile using a

number of ways:
Create the profile using a series of lines

and arcs.
Create the basic shape using the Profile
tool, then add corners and chamfers as
separate operations.
Create the whole profile using the profile
tool.
Exercise 2C
2-49

Student Notes:
Step 4: Constrain the Sketch

constrain the sketch using
geometrical and dimensional
constraints.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Create a new part.

Select an appropriate sketch
support.

Save and close the
document.
2-50

Student Notes:
Constraining the Sketch

Once the sketched geometry is created, dimensions
and geometric constraints can be added.
Constraints serve to mathematically fix geometry in
space. Without constraints, geometry can be moved
using the mouse. If the sketched profile is moved,
the solids that are supported by them are also
moved. In the context of an assembly, if one part
moves, another part that is related to it may also
move.
Without constraints, feature creation becomes

unpredictable and modifications to a model may
adversely affect form, fit, and function of entire
assemblies. Constraints are used to specifically
relate one element to another, and to itself, in a
logical way.
Movement of four
Unconstrained Lines
After Constraints are created, they can be modified

by changing their values or placement. From the
ease at which constraints may be modified and from
the inherent downstream associativity of CATIA V5,
the user can quickly explore alternative designs
while still maintaining design intent.
2-51

Student Notes:
Geometric and Dimensional Constraints

Constraints are added to sketched geometry in the
Sketcher workbench. Two types of constraints can
be added to sketched geometry:
A
A. Geometric constraints, which specify how

sketched elements are positioned with respect
to each other and existing 3D geometry.
B. Dimensional constraints, which specify the
distance between two elements. This distance
can be linear, angular, or radial, depending on
the type of geometric elements involved.
Geometric constraint
(here concentricity)
These constraints can be set using the icons on the

Constraint toolbar:
C. Constraint Defined in Dialog Box
Dimensional constraint
(here distance)
D. Constraint
2-52

Student Notes:
Fully Constrained Sketches

The constrained status of a sketch is indicated
by its color:
Green indicates that the sketch is fully
White indicates that the sketch is under
Purple indicates that the sketch is over
Red indicates that the constraints of the sketch
constrained. The geometry is fixed and cannot be

moved without changing dimensional values.
constrained. Some degrees of freedom still
remain.
constrained. There are too many constraints.
are inconsistent. The sketch cannot be updated

using the current constraints.
Ideally, a completed sketch should be fully

constrained. The size and location of the
sketch should be clearly defined. An under
constrained sketch may not maintain design
intent when modifications are made to the
model.
The sketch for the cut is

not constrained. When
modifications are made to
the solid, the cut does not
stay in the correct location.
Constrained sketches allow you to fully utilize

the associative and parametric capabilities of
CATIA.
The sketch for the cut is

fully constrained. When
modifications are made
to the solid, the cut stays
in the correct location.
2-53

Student Notes:
Geometric Constraints (1/2)
To create a geometric
constraint, select the
geometric elements to
be constrained first and
then the Constraint
Define in Dialog box
icon.
Description
Fix
A fix element cannot be modified.
Coincidence
Makes a point of an element coincident with another

element.
Concentricity
Makes two arcs concentric.
Tangency
Set tangency continuity between two elements.
Parallelism
Makes two lines parallel. Select the line to remain fixed first
and then select the line to be made parallel to the first.
Representation
To select multiple
elements use the <Ctrl>
key.
2-54

Student Notes:
Geometric Constraints (2/2)
Consider using an
infinite line or an axis as
the element to create
symetric lines about.
Description
Perpendicularity
Makes two lines perpendicular.
Horizontal
Makes a line horizontal (parallel to the H axis of the sketch).
Vertical
Makes a line vertical (parallel to the V axis of the sketch).
Symmetry
Makes two lines symmetric about a selected element.

Select the two outer lines first and then the element they are
to be symmetric about.
Representation
2-55

Student Notes:
Dimensional Constraints
Description
Distance
The distance between two elements is calculated.
Length
The length of the constrained element is calculated.
Angle
Calculates the angle between two non parallel lines.
Radius/Diameter
Gives the radius or the diameter of a circle or an arc.
Representation
A sketch with many

constraints can quickly
become unreadable. Try
to position the
constraints correctly to
make the sketch
ledgible.
2-56

Student Notes:
Recommendations for Constraining
In this section, you will give you some recommendations that may help when
constraining sketches.
2-57

Student Notes:
Sketch in Context
To sketch in context means to use existing

geometry to create new geometry. When
sketching, always keep in mind your
design intent and dimension and constrain
your sketch accordingly. Use existing
model elements to constrain your current
sketch. For instance, the pocket shown
below needs to stay 15 mm away from the
right side of the base feature. By
dimensioning the sketch to the right side
of the base feature this design intent can
be maintained even when the base
features dimensions are changed.
3D geometry used to
sketch and constrain
profiles
2-58

Student Notes:
Sketcher Orientation (1/2)
The Normal View icon

can also be used to
invert the orientation
(i.e., look at the
sketching plane for the
other side).
It is recommended that the screen be oriented

parallel to the sketching plane you are in while
creating sketched geometry. By default, this
will happen automatically. When you exit the
Sketcher workbench, the screen will
immediately return to the previous 3D
orientation.
All geometry in 3D space is available while

you are in the Sketcher workbench. This
means it is possible to constrain 2D sketcher
geometry to features not in the same sketch
or even the same sketch plane.
When constraining sketched geometry to
existing 3D elements it is a good idea to
rotate the model into a 3D view. By rotating
the model you can ensure the correct 3D
element is selected. Once the 3D element is
highlighted select the Normal View icon to
return the orientation parallel to the sketching
plane.
2-59

Student Notes:
Sketcher Orientation (2/2)
When constraining to the edge of the part,

while viewing the sketch in a normal view,
CATIA creates the constraint to the first
edge. This could be the edge of a fillet or
chamfer as shown below. A better alternative
is to rotate the sketch and select a more
stable feature (such as the face of the part),
and not the edge.
Once you have finished selecting

references, use the Normal View
icon to orient the screen parallel to
the sketch support again.
Original Part
Constraint created in
Normal view uses the
edge and not the face
as intended.
Rotate the model to

ensure the top surface
is selected and not the
edge of the fillet.
2-60

Student Notes:
Tips on Initial Sketch Geometry (1/2)

Initial Size of Sketch:
As you begin to create geometry, try to

create it reasonably close in shape and
size to the final constrained sketch. A
sketch that greatly differs from the desired
profile will become distorted when the final
dimensional constraints are applied. This
will make it difficult to fully constrain the
sketch.
Initial Sketch
Consider using the grid to help maintain

proper scale for sketched elements.
Observing the values in the Sketch Tools

toolbar will help you understand the real
size of the elements being sketched.
Final Sketch
2-61

Student Notes:
Tips on Initial Sketch Geometry (2/2)

The Geometrical Constraints icon (located
in the Sketch Tools toolbar) controls whether
or not geometric constraints are automatically
created during the development of the initial
sketch.
This tool is useful to use with simple

geometry, because it helps speed up the
finalization of the shape. With more complex
geometry, however, using this tool selected
may lead to the creation of unwanted
constraints.
2-62

Student Notes:
Tips on Constraint Creation

You can use two tools to define the
constraints on a sketch, as shown on the
right. Both create geometric and dimensional
types of constraints.
Geometric Constraints
Dimensional Constraints
As you become more skilled, it is more

efficient to use the process below to create
constraints:
Double click on
this ICON.
Selecting geometry creates dimensional

constraints.
Selecting geometry, then right-clicking

creates geometric constraints.
2-63

Student Notes:
Controlling the Constraint Dimension Direction

When creating a dimensional constraint on a
profile, the dimension direction is determined
by the type of element selected. If the elements
are points or circles, the default dimension
direction is parallel to the line between the
points or circle centers.
When creating a dimension constraint between

two circles or points, you can force a horizontal
or vertical dimension orientation by right mouse
clicking and choosing the desired orientation.
2-64

Student Notes:
Step 5: Create the Pad Feature

create a simple base feature. You
will gain more feature creation skills
in the upcoming lessons.
Use the following steps to create
the Support Plaque:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Create a new part.

Select an appropriate sketch
support.
6.
2-65

Student Notes:
Completing the Feature

Once the sketched profile has been created,
solid 3D geometry can be generated from it.
2D profile (sketch)
Extruded pad
2-66

Student Notes:
Using a Pad to Create the First Feature

Use the following steps to create a pad that
will be used as the first feature in a model:
The Pad definition can

be modified after
creation by double
clicking on the Pad from
the model or the
specification tree.
1. Select the profile sketch to be used for the Pad.

2. Select the Pad icon.
3. Enter length.
4. Complete the feature.
2-67
Step 6: Save and Close the Document
Student Notes:

save and close the model.
Use the following steps to create

the Support Plaque:
support.
6. Save and close the

document.
2-68

Student Notes:
Saving Documents
Documents need to be saved so that work is not lost.
There are different ways to save CATIA documents:
Save
Save As
Save All
Save Management
Documents are saved:

After modifying them.
To create new ones.
Documents can be saved:
With the same name (to replace the initial document).

Under a new name (to create a new document).
2-69

Student Notes:
Saving a Document with the Same Name

Use one of the following methods to save a part with the same name in the same folder:
A. Click File > Save.
B. Select the Save icon from the Standard toolbar.
C. Press the <Ctrl> and <s> keys simultaneously.
2-70

Student Notes:
Saving a Document with a New Name

The Save As command is used to save an
existing document under a new name. The
Save As command creates copy of the
existing document with a new name; it does
not remove the original document.
The first time a document is saved, CATIA will
open the Save As dialog box regardless of
which tool is used to save the document.
To save a part with a new name:

1. Click File > Save As.
2. From the Save As dialog box, browse to
the directory where the file is to be saved.
3. Enter a name for the documents.
4. Select Save.
Here, the document is stored

in the same folder as the
original with a new name.
4
3
2-71

Student Notes:
Closing a Document
When you are finished with the document,
you can close it. Use the following steps to
close a document:
1. Click File > Close or select the Close icon.
2. If changes have been made but not saved,
a pop-up window asks you if you want to
save changes.
3. Your options are:
A. Select Yes to save the changes.
B. Select No to close the document
without saving the changes.
C.Select Cancel to keep the document
open.
C
2-72

Student Notes:
To Sum Up
Using the knowledge learned in this lesson, you
should be able to create the support plaque.
The support plaque will require the following:
The creation of a new part

Proper sketch support selection
Proper choices for the profile
Proper constraint selection to meet design
requirements
The creation of a pad feature
Saving the model with the correct name and
closing the document
2-73
Exercise 2D
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
15 min
In this exercise, you will construct various geometric elements in the Sketcher
workbench. This exercise will help you to understand how to constrain and
dimension these sketched entities. Detailed instruction for this exercise is provided.
Constrain a sketch
Dimension a sketch
Save and close a model
Exercise 2D
2-74

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (1/10)
To begin modeling, create a new part and save
it using the Save option.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Click File > New.

Choose Part from the New dialog box.
Select OK.
Change the filename to [Exercise_2d].
Select OK.
2. Launch the Sketcher workbench.

To create a sketch, choose the sketch support
and access the Sketcher workbench.
a. Select plane XY as the sketch support.
b. Select the Sketcher icon.
1d
1b
1e
1c
2a
2b
3. Turn on Automatic constraints.

Constraints were turned off in an earlier
exercise to concentrate on using the sketching
tools. By default, the Geometric and
Dimensional constraint icons are active.
a. Ensure both Geometrical Constraints and
Dimensional Constraints are highlighted. If
they are not, left mouse click on the icons to
activate the options.
3a
Ensure Geometrical and Dimensional

constraints are highlighted, as shown.
Exercise 2D
2-75

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (2/10)
4. Sketch a profile.
To begin the sketch, create a profile using
the profile tool that is the general shape
and size the final sketch will be.
Select the Profile icon.
Click a point to define the starting point.
Draw a horizontal line.
Select the Tangent Arc icon.
Create the arc shown.
The profile tool will default back to Line.
Create another horizontal line.
g. Create the vertical line.
h. Create the third horizontal line.
i. Complete the profile by adding a line
that connects back to the beginning of
the profile.
4a
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
4h
4f
4g
4i
4e
4c
4b
4d
Exercise 2D
2-76

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (3/10)
5. Create the overall horizontal dimension.
Create the overall horizontal dimension
for the created profile using the
Constraint tool.
5a
a. Select the Constraint icon.

b. Select the line segment
c. Drag the mouse to place the
dimension. Left mouse click to
complete the dimension.
d. Double-click the dimension.
e. Modify the value to [340].
f. Select OK to close the dialog box and
update the dimension.
5e
5b
5d
5f
Exercise 2D
2-77

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (4/10)
6. Create a diameter dimension.
Dimension the arc using the constraint tool
and change the dimension type to Diameter.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Select the Constraint icon.

Select the arc.
Drag the mouse to place the dimension.
Left mouse click to complete the
dimension.
Double-click the value and change its
value to [25].
Select the Dimension pull-down menu
and change the option from Radius to
Diameter.
Select OK to update the dimension.
6a
6b
6c
6d
6e
6f
Exercise 2D
2-78

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (5/10)
7. Create a vertical dimension.
Create the overall vertical length of the
profile using the constraint tool.
7a
a.
b.
c.
d.

Select the top horizontal line.
Select the bottom horizontal line.
Drag the mouse to place the
dimension and left mouse click to
complete it.
e. Double-click the dimension and enter
[85].
7b
7c
7e
7d
Exercise 2D
2-79

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (6/10)
8. Create a horizontal dimension.
Create the top horizontal dimension
using the Constraint tool.
a.
b.
c.
d.

Select the top horizontal line.
Drag the mouse to the place the
dimension and left mouse click to
complete its placement.
Double-click the dimension and
change its value to [100].
8a
8b
8c
Exercise 2D
2-80

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (7/10)
9. Create an angular dimension.
Create an angular dimension
between the bottom horizontal line
and the adjacent line using the
constraint tool.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
9a

Select the angled line
Select the bottom horizontal
line.
Place the dimension.
Edit the angular value to [30]
degrees.
9b
9c
9e
Exercise 2D
2-81

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (8/10)
10. Create a horizontal constraint.
Constrain a line horizontally using the
Constraints Defined in Dialog Box
tool.
a. Select the horizontal line.
b. Select the Constraints Defined in
Dialog box icon.
c. Select the Horizontal option in the
Constraint Definition dialog box.
d. Select OK to apply the constraint to
the sketch.
10a
10b
10c
10d
Exercise 2D
2-82

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (9/10)
11. Create a circle and constrain it.
Create a circle using the Circle tool.
Constrain Its center to the center of the
arc using the Constraints Defined in
Dialog Box tool.
a. Sketch a circle.
b. Select center point of the arc. Press
and hold the <Ctrl> key and select the
center of the circle.
c. Select the Constraints Defined in
Dialog Box icon.
d. Select the Coincidence option.
e. Select OK to apply the constraint.
11a
11d
11b
Highlight both the center point

of the arc and the circle.
11e
11c
Exercise 2D
2-83

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D (10/10)
To fully constrain this

sketch additional
constraints to existing
features (such as the
default reference
planes) would need to
be created.
12. Verify the coincidence constraint.

Move the center of the circle and ensure
it cannot move on its own. If the circle
can move without moving the entire
sketch, this indicates that the sketch is
not constrained properly.
a. Select the center of the point of the

arc and circle.
b. Press and hold the left mouse button,
and try moving the point to the left or
right. The entire sketch should move.
c. Select the Coincidence constraint
and press the <Delete> key.
d. Select the center of the circle and now
try to move it. Only the circle should
move.
e. Delete the sketched circle.
12a
12c
Exercise 2D
2-84

Student Notes:
Exercise 2D: Recap

Constrain a sketch
Dimension a sketch
Exercise 2D
2-85
Exercise 2E
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
15 min
In this exercise, you will fully constrain an existing sketch using the tools from
previous exercise. This exercise will help you understand how to constrain and
dimension sketched entities. High-level instruction for this exercise is provided.
Open an existing sketch
Constrain a sketch
Dimension a sketch
Utilize problem solving skills
Save and close a model

Exercise 2E
2-86

Student Notes:
Exercise 2E (1/4)
1.
2.
3.
Open Ex2E_1.CATPart.
Open an existing part file using the Open
tool. Once opened, notice that a sketch has
already been created for you.
Edit the sketch.

Modify the sketch in the Sketcher workbench
by double-clicking on the sketch directly in the
model or on the specification tree.
Add Horizontal constraints
3
Exercise 2E
2-87

Student Notes:
Exercise 2E (2/4)
4.
Add a Concentricity constraint.

Make the circles concentric.
5.
Add Tangency constraint.

Apply a tangency constraint between
the bottom horizontal line and the arc.
Remove useless coincidence constraint.
6.
6
5
Exercise 2E
2-88

Student Notes:
Exercise 2E (3/4)
7.
Exit the Sketcher workbench and save the

file.
Return to the Part Design workbench and
use the Save tool to save your changes to
the sketch.
8.
Add dimensional constraints.

Using proper techniques, add dimensional
constraints to the sketch. Once all
dimensional constraints have been applied,
the sketch will turn green, indicating that
the sketch is fully constrained.
Exercise 2E
2-89

Student Notes:
Exercise 2E (4/4)
9.
Open Ex2E_2.CATPart.
Open an existing part file using the
Open tool. Once opened, notice that a
sketch has already been created for
you.
10
10. Edit the sketch.

Modify the sketch in the Sketcher
workbench by double-clicking on the
sketch directly in the model or on the
specification tree.
11. Geometrically and dimensionally

constrain the sketch.
Fully constrain this sketch using the
same process as use for the last sketch.
11
12. Compare sketches.

Was this sketch as easy to constrain as
the last sketch? Why?
13. Save and close both documents.
Exercise 2E
2-90

Student Notes:
Exercise 2E: Recap
When sketching
remember to create the
sketch in the
approximate shape and
size to the final
outcome. Taking the
time to create the sketch
properly will help save
time when constraining.
Constrain a sketch
Dimension a sketch
Understand proper sketching

techniques
Exercise 2E
2-91
Exercise 2F
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
15 min
In this exercise, you will fully constrain an existing sketch. You will use the tools
learned in this lesson to complete the exercise with no detailed instruction.
By the end of the exercise you will be able to:
Open an existing model
Edit a sketch
Constrain existing sketched geometry
Save and close the document
Exercise 2F
2-92

Student Notes:
Exercise 2F
Open Ex_2F.CATPart and fully constrain the sketch.
1.
Exercise 2F
2-93

Student Notes:
Exercise 2F: Recap
Consider creating
sketches away from the
origin and then
constraining them to the
origin after. This avoids
the automatic origin
constraint that cannot
be deleted.
Constrain a sketch
Dimension a sketch
Exercise 2F
2-94
Student Notes:
Recap Exercise
10 min
You will practice what you learned by completing the case study model using
only a detailed drawing as guidance.
In this exercise, you will create the case study model. Recall the design intent
of this model:
The model must be created in one feature.
The model must be centered along the YZ and ZX planes.
The smaller holes must be 30mm away from the center hole.
The center hole must remain in the center of the support.
The model must be saved with the name Support_Plaque.
Using the techniques you have learned in this

and previous lessons, create the model without
detailed instruction.
2-95

Student Notes:
Do It Yourself: Drawing of the Support Plaque
Design Intent:
The model must be
created in one feature.
The model must be
centered along the YZ
and ZX planes.
The smaller holes must
be 30mm away from the
center hole.
The center hole must
remain in the center of
the support.
The model must be

saved with the name
Support_Plaque.
2-96

Student Notes:
Case Study: Support Plaque Recap

Select the YZ plane as sketch support
Constrain sketch according to design intent
Create pad feature
Save and close document
2-97

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