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Inventor 2015
14 New Freeform Tools The 14 new Freeform tools provide an alternate modeling approach to explore and create freeform shaped models using direct manipulation. Basic freeform shapes start the process and are available on the ribbon (Box, Sphere, Cylinder, Torus, or Quad ball). Further refinement can be performed by using the Freeform edit tools.
Figure 10: New Direct Edit interface
There is also a very handy snap parallel option included. Once in Direct Edit Mode, you can move and select features to edit without having to leave the mode. This is quite convenient while performing numerous edits.
Figure 9: Freeform Editor is awesome!
Freeform includes powerful refinement tools to use while the model is being built. The multi-functional triad tool allows scaling, rotation, and translation of any surface or edge selected. The surfaces can also be subdivided as desired. The pinewood derby car example above was made with x-axis symmetry activated, allowing one to concentrate edits to one side, but visualize the results on the entire model. Notice the light grey centerline indicating the plane of symmetry. The form populated the model browser’s history and can be used in conjunction with parametric modeling. Freeform includes a Match Edge Command that allows users to form the freeform body to existing features and sketch geometries as well. Better Direct Edit Functionality Direct Edit Mode is well put together and makes fast changes to parts easily. This can be performed on Inventor models as well as any shape that has been imported with or without history definitions. The tools available include: • Move • Rotate • Size • Delete 34
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These operations are stored in the model browser history as ‘Direct Edit’. Picking these highlights respective edits in the graphics window; double-clicking them activates the Direct Edit Mode again and shows each feature edit type delineated as a sub-member. See Enhanced Highlighting of Selections in iPart Table Selections in an iPart table highlight in other reference fields, as well in the graphics window. The object (such as feature, parameter, and property) that you select in the iPart editor highlights within associated table fields and in the graphics window (when applicable). Highlighting works for: • Parts and assembly features (including sheet metal), suppressed or unsuppressed. • Work features, visible and invisible. • iMates and iFeatures. • Column or cell, including columns that can be mapped back to a feature, work feature, or iMate. • The source pane and destination pane in the iPart and iAssembly Author dialog boxes. • Edit in place (not for Edit in Place Create iPart). SHEET METAL • Window selection of multiple points to place a punch. • Flat Pattern conversion prompts are more accurate. • Folded parts in the browser show EOF (End of Flat) instead of EOP. April 2014