Sketching

Generally pretty similar tools and process, the main thing you’ll notice is you do not get automatic dimensions.  Create your geometry then create your dimensions.  Slightly different method but a bit clunky is to activate Tools > Options > Sketch > Enable on screen numeric input

 

 

Again, no MMB to return to the Select tool so either RMB menu or hit Enter. Hit Enter again to reactivate previous tool.

To create relations (constraints) between entities, Ctrl select the elements and valid relations will be displayed.

Line – double click to finish current line and start new one. Hold LMB and drag to start the line release LMB to place endpoint will also finish the line but keep the line tool active.

Attach to existing curve which intersect sketch plane – create sketch point, or create Pierce relation

Hover over circular edge to activate centre point as snap for subsequent geometry

To switch from line to arc, return to the start point of the current line and hover, the tool will switch to an arc, how you exit the start point will decide on a tangent or perpendicular relation.

 

Fully Constrained?

Sketch curves will show as blue if they are not constrained by relations or dimensions. As the sketch becomes constrained the curves turn black.  This is quite a different philosophy to Creo which applies minimum system generated constraints and dimensions to fully resolve a sketch.

It also means you have to relieve relations or use numerical inputs alter geometry – you cannot drag a constrained element.

 

Fully Define Sketch

RMB > Fully Define Sketch

Consider the Dimension options, probably go for Chain dimensions

 

3D Sketches

The 3D sketch tools are a good option for general 3D geometry, dimensioning and constraining may take some practise. Watch the red coordinate system which indicate which plane your cursor is moving in, use tab to toggle between the 3 dominant planes.

The 3D sketch also means you can group a set of construction geometry for a 3D form under one feature, nice for editing.

The 2D and 3D sketches use different back ground algorithms for solving the relationships etc. so you may notice them behaving slightly differently.

To eliminate visualisation issues with depth when manipulating in 3D use 4 viewports as you do in the Creo style tool or Rhino

 

RMB on the circle on the end of the spline vector and you are offered ‘normal to’ relations