Structure Design (Ship)

Structure Design
Version 5 Release 8
Site Map
Preface
Structure Design
Using This Guide
Site Map
More Information
Preface
What's New?
What's New?
Getting Started
Basic Tasks
Getting Started
Advanced Tasks
Workbench
Setting Up Your Session
Description
Creating Columns
Customizing
Creating a Plate
Glossary
Index
Bracing Your Structure
Creating a Walkway
Creating Infills
Making Changes
Basic Tasks
Creating Structures
Dassault Systmes
1994-2002. All rights Make Up a List of Sections
reserved.
Creating Linear Members
Creating Infills
Creating Members on Support
Creating Plates
Creating End Plates
Modifying, Joining & Moving
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Structure Design
Modifying Members
Modifying Plates
Joining Structures
Translating Structures
Rotating Structures
Manipulating Structures
Creating a Grid
Advanced Tasks
Interoperability with V5
Sketching Profiles for User Sections

Creating Cutouts
Creating Flanges
Creating Assembly Constraints
Generating Drawings
Working with User Sections

Defining Anchor Points for User Sections
Creating Parametric Section Catalogs
Generating BOMs
Workbench Description
Design Toolbar
Assembly Toolbar
Specification Tree
Customizing
Glossary
Index
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Preface
Preface
Version 5 Structure Design allows you to quickly model linear and curved structures, and
plates using standard or user-defined sections. It offers an easy-to-use and easy-to-learn
graphic interface that lets you design in context and take advantage of full associativity when
creating and modifying structures. This product addresses preliminary and detailed design
requirements for products such as heavy machinery and equipment, tooling jigs, shipbuilding
and manufacturing plant foundations.
As a scalable product, Structure Design can be used with other Version 5 products such as
Part Design, Assembly Design, Sheetmetal Design, and Generative Drafting.
Using This Guide

More Information
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Using This Guide
Using This Guide

This book is intended to help you become quickly familiar with Structure Design. You should
already be accustomed with basic Version 5 concepts such as document windows, standard
and view toolbars.
To get the most out of this guide, we suggest you start reading and performing the step-by-
step Getting Started tutorial.
Basic Task and Advanced Task sections present the main capabilities in the form of user
tasks. It may be a good idea to take a look at the section describing the workbench menus and
toolbars.
More Information
More Information
Prior to reading this book, we recommend that you read the Version 5 Infrastructure User's
Guide.
The Part Design, Assembly Design, Sheetmetal Design and Generative Drafting User's Guides
may also prove useful.
For information on VB macro capabilities, refer to Structure on the Automation Documentation

Home Page.
Click to find out more about Conventions used in this guide.
What's New?
What's New?
No Change in V5R8
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Getting Started
Getting Started
This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through your first Structure Design session,
allowing you to get acquainted with the product.
You will need a Version 5 session and should be familiar with basic concepts such as
document windows, standard and view toolbars.
You should be able to complete this tutorial in about 15 minutes.

Creating Columns
Creating a Plate
Creating a Walkway
Creating Infills
Making Changes
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This first task shows you how to enter the Structure Design workbench and set up your
Version 5 session.
1. Select File -> Open then select the GettingStarted.CATProduct document
from the samples directory.
2. Select Mechanical Design ->Structure Design from the Start menu.
The Structure Design workbench is displayed.

3. Switch to Design Mode (Edit -> Representations ).
The document contains wireframe construction elements that will help you build
the following foundation:
4. To ensure associativity between the structures you are going to create and the
grid used as a construction aid, set the following options:
Select Tools -> Options from the menu bar
Click Mechanical Design -> Part Design in the left-hand box of the
Options dialog box
Click the General tab
Check Keep link with selected object and Synchronize all external
references.
5. Click Mechanical Design -> Structure Design in the left-hand box of
the Options dialog box and select the Structure Design tab, then set member and
plate material to Steel.
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6. For access to available sections:

Create a user folder which will contain available sections, naming it
Section for example.
In the Structure Design tab, identify the path to this folder in the Directory
field under Section storage, for example e:\Section
and ensure that the path to the folder containing sample standard catalog
sections in the Directory field under Catalog storage is correctly set. The correct
setting is:
installation_folder/startup/components/
structuralcatalogs
For more information on the installation folder, see the Infrastructure
User's Guide.
7. Click OK in the Options dialog box when done.

Creating Support Columns
This task shows you how to create the four support columns of your structure. Columns use
standard section IPE200 with a gravity anchor point.
1. Double-click the Member icon.
The Member Definition and Point Definition dialog boxes appear.
Double-clicking keeps the dialog box open letting you can create several columns.
2. Close the Point Definition dialog box.

3. Load the standard section, IPE200, that you will need:
In the Section list, select Other section...
The Catalog Browser dialog box opens letting you browse and preview the
content of the current catalog.
The section of interest is not in this catalog.

Click the Browse another catalog icon to open the File Selection dialog box.
Select the OTUA catalog and click Open to open your catalog.
Browse the list of families and double-click IPE.

Browse the list of shapes, then select section IPE200.

Click OK.
The Section list in the Member Definition dialog box is updated.

4. Keep default options defining member type, anchor point and orientation.
5. In the Direction box list, select Parallel to the Z axis.
6. Select the start point of your column.
7. Select the end point of your column.
The column is created in the geometry area and identified in the specification tree.
In this case where a support (grid line) coincides with the start and end points used to
create the column, you can also use the Member on Support command.

8. Repeat to create the other three columns.

Your structure now looks like this:

Creating a Plate
Creating a Plate
This task shows you how to create a plate on top of the support columns.
1. Click the Plate icon.
The Plate Definition dialog box

appears.
2. Enter the plate thickness, for example 100mm.

3. Select the grid plane as
support plane.
4. Select the ends of linear members to define the contour of the plate:
Note: The system shows you a preview to guide you when creating the plate.
You need only select the ends of three members, the system closes the contour
for you.

Creating a Plate
5. Select the arrow to invert the orientation of the thickness.

6. Click OK to create the plate.

This task shows you how to brace both ends of your structure.
1. Double-click the Member icon.
The Member Definition dialog box appears. Double-clicking keeps the dialog box
open letting you can create several braces.
2. In the Type list, select V-Brace.
3. In the Section list, select IPE200.
4. In the Anchor point list, select Gravity.
5. In the Direction box list, select Unspecified.
6. Select the top end of the first column.
7. Select the bottom end of the opposite column.
The first part of the brace is created.
8. Select the bottom end of first column.
9. Select the top end of opposite column.
The brace at this end of the structure is finished.
10. Repeat for the other end of the structure.


Creating a Walkway
Creating a Walkway
This task shows you how to create the linear members making up a walkway.
The Linear Member Definition dialog box is still displayed.
1. In the Type list, select Beam.
3. In the Anchor point list, select Gravity top.
4. In the Direction list, select Parallel to the X-axis.

5. Click the Length checkbox and enter 2000 in the Length box.
6. Select column 1 and indicate to identify the
positive direction:
The first support beam is created.
7. Select column 4 and indicate to identify the

positive direction:
The second support beam is created.
8. In the Linear Member Definition dialog box, change the direction to Parallel to the xy plane.
9. Uncheck the Length checkbox.
10. Select the two support beams you just created.
Be careful where you select the two beams. The system determines the end nearest the selection point to define
the start and end points of the beam you want to create.
The first connecting beam is created.

Creating a Walkway
11. Select the two support beams again, this time at the other end:
The second connecting beam is created.
Note: This second beam is needed to create the infills and complete the walkway.
You are now ready to brace your walkway.

12. In the Type list, select V-Brace.
13. Keep the same section, IPE200.
14. In the Anchor point list, select Gravity.
15. In the Orientation box, use to arrows to change

the angle to 90 degrees.
16. In the Direction list, select Parallel to XZ plane.

17. Select the bottom end of column 1.
18. Select the far end of the first beam created.
19. Repeat for the other end of the walkway.
20. Click the Member icon to exit the command.

Creating a Walkway

Creating Infills
Creating Infills
This task shows how to create infills to complete the walkway and your structure.
1. Click the Infill icon.
The Infill Definition dialog box

appears.
2. In the Type list, select Beam.
4. In the Anchor point list, select Top

center.
5. Set the Orientation back to 0deg.
6. In the Number box, use the arrows

to change the number of infills to 4.
7. Keep the default options in the

Spacing boxes.
8. Select the two connecting beams.

Important: Make sure you select the entire definition of the beam.
9. Click OK to create the infills.
Infills are created and have the characteristics defined in the Infill Definition dialog box.
Infills are added to the specification tree.

Creating Infills

Making Changes
Making Design Changes

You discover that your structure interferes with the dismantling and maintenance of neighbouring
parts. It needs to be shortened slightly and this can be done without adversely affecting your design.
This task shows you how to use the associativity between the members and plate created and the
construction grid to adjust the length of your structure.
1. Double-click the plane (highlighted below) at the end of the structure twice to edit it:
Note: On the first double-click, you enter the Part Design workbench.
On the second double-click, the Plane Definition dialog box appears.
2. Drag the plane to the new position or enter a shorter offset distance in the dialog box, for
example 2500mm.
3. Click OK when done.
The grid is updated. Now you can update the structure.

Making Changes
4. Double-click the root product in the specification tree.

5. If the Update icon is active, click to update.
The structure is updated.

To ensure associativity between the structures you create and the grid used as a construction
aid, you must check the following options (Tools -> Options...) before creating your
structures:
Keep link with selected object and Synchronize all external references for update in the
General tab under Mechanical Design -> Part Design in the Options dialog box.

Making Changes
This concludes the getting started step-by-step scenario.
You should now go to the basic task section of this guide. This steps you through basic
procedures, letting you get the most out of this product.

Basic Tasks
Basic Tasks
The basic tasks you will perform in the Structure Design workbench involve creating linear and
curved structures, and plates using standard or user-defined sections, modifying structures,
specifying structure joints, translating and rotating structures, as well as creating construction
grids to assist you create structures.
Creating Structures
Creating a Grid
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Creating Structures
Creating Structures
Structure Design allows you to create linear and curved structures, and plates using standard or user-defined sections.
Associativity: To ensure associativity between the structures you create and any underlying wireframe
geometry used as construction geometry, you must check the following options before creating your
structures:
1. Keep link with selected object

2. Synchronize all external references for update
These options are to be found in the General tab of the Options dialog box (Tools ->
Options..., Mechanical Design -> Part Design).
Do not forget to define settings for access to standard catalog sections and available sections (Tools -
> Options..., Mechanical Design -> Structure Design).
Do not forget to switch to Design Mode (Edit -> Representations ) to create structures.
Double-clicking commands keeps dialog boxes open and lets you create more than one structure at any
one time.
Make up a list of sections: Double-click the Section icon and select sections you need from the Catalog
browser.
Create linear members: Set parameters in the Member Definition dialog box then define where the member
starts and ends
Create infills: Set parameters in the Infill dialog box then select the two structures between which you want to
create infills
Create members on supports: Set parameters in the Member on Support dialog box then select the support
Create plates: Set parameters in the Plate Definition dialog box, select a support then define the contour of
the plate
Create end plates: Set parameters in the End Plate Definition dialog box, select the end of the structure at
which you want to place the end plate

Modify members: Right-click the member in the specification tree and select the
desired type of modification, then make appropriate changes.
Modify plates: Right-click the plate in the specification tree and select Definition
from the contextual menu, then make appropriate changes.
Join structures: Select the cut in the Joint Definition dialog box, specify an offset,
then select members
Translate structures: Select a structure and enter offset values in the Move dialog
box
Rotate structures: Select a structure, choose the axis of rotation and enter an angle
in the Move dialog box
Manipulate structures: Define the move in the Manipulation Parameters dialog box,
select a structure and drag
Important: Translation or Rotation and Manipulation commands are for
unconstrained structures, i.e. structures to which no geometric nor assembly
constraints have been set.
Creating a Grid
Creating a Grid
Using grids lets you position structures more easily as well as design in context. You can create structures
referencing geometrical grid elements. Design changes can then be introduced by modifying the grid and
updating the structure in consequence.
Note: You can also design in context using assembly constraints.

This task shows how to create a new grid that you can then use as a construction aid to create members.
A grid is made of wireframe elements (lines, points and planes) and is identified in the specification tree. It can
be created using either the Cartesian or Polar coordinate system.
Start the Structure Design workbench (Mechanical Design ->Structure Design from the Start
menu).
1. Click the Grid icon.
The Grid Definition dialog box appears.
2. Enter a name for the grid you want to create in the Name box:
The grid will be identified by this name in the specification tree.

3. Select Relative or Absolute in the Mode list to define the grid construction mode.
In the absolute mode, grid planes are positioned with respect to the grid origin. Planes can be
repositioned independently of one another.
In the relative mode, grid planes are positioned with respect to each other. Moving a plane impacts
other planes offset from that plane. This is the default mode.
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Creating a Grid
4. Enter absolute coordinates in the Origin box or select a point in the geometry area to define the grid origin.
If you select a point, the point is identified in the dialog box. The grid origin is now linked to this point.
5. In the First direction in XY plane box:
In the Cartesian tab, enter H and V coordinates to define the local x-axis.
Or,
Click the Polar tab and enter an angle to define the polar axis.
Or,
Select a line in the geometry area.
Note: By default, the local x-axis is positioned along the absolute x-axis.
If you select a line, the line is identified in the dialog box. The first direction is now linked to this line.
6. Specify grid coordinates:
In the Cartesian tab, specify the distance between grid points and number of points along x, y and
z axes.
Or,
In the Polar tab, specify the radius, amplitude and spacing along the z-axis as well as the number
of grid points in each case.

Creating a Grid
Note: Clicking More expands the dialog box and lets you enter up to three more different combinations to
define your grid.
7. Click OK to create the grid.
The grid is created and is identified in the specification tree.
Grid planes are associative: moving a plane will update the grid.
This is useful when modifying a structure: move a plane (double-click to edit) and see the structure
defined using the grid updated when you double-click the root product in the specification tree if the
following options were set in the General tab in the Options dialog box (Tools -> Options,
Mechanical Design):
Keep link with selected object
Synchronize all external references for update.

Creating a Grid

Making Up a List of Sections

Sections used to create structures can be:
Standard catalog sections
Samples of standard catalogs are supplied with the product. Sections in these
catalogs are parametric sketches associated with design tables (CSV-type Excel
files).
User-defined sections.
Before you start working, make up a list of the catalog and/or user sections you will
need. This list is saved locally in the folder defined in your settings (see the Customizing
section of this guide).
Catalog and user sections in this folder are then accessed directly via the Section list of
the appropriate dialog box.
This task shows how to make up a list of standard catalog and user sections suited to
your needs.
No sample document is provided.
Standard Catalog Sections
1. Double-click
the Section
icon.
The
Catalogs
Browser
dialog box
opens letting
you browse
and preview
the contents
of the current
catalog.
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2. Click the
Browse
another
catalog
icon to open
the File
Selection
dialog box
and choose
another
catalog.
3. Select the OTUA catalog for example and click Open.

4. Browse the
list of
families in
the Catalog
Browser
dialog box
and double-
click the
family of
interest, for
example IPE.

5. Browse the
list of
shapes and
select the
section of
interest, for
example
IPE200,
then click
OK in the
dialog box.
For
information
on options
in the
Catalog
Browser,
see Using
Catalogs in
the
Infrastructure
User's
Guide.
6. Repeat until you have selected all catalog sections you are likely to need.
The Other Section... option in the Section list of the appropriate dialog box also
gives you access to the catalog browser.
User-defined Sections
User-defined sections are of two types:
Parametric sections stored in a user catalog and accessed in the same way as
standard catalog sections.
Resolved sections saved directly in the local folder containing the list of sections.
Both types of section can be created using the Sketcher.

For more information on sketcher capabilities, see the Sketcher User's Guide. A simple
task illustrating the use of the sketcher is included in this guide; see Sketching.
For more information on creating parametric section catalogs, see the advanced tasks
section in this guide.

1. To make up a list of user sections:
Double-click the Section icon and proceed as above for standard catalog
sections.
Or,
Save resolved sections directly in the local folder defined in your settings (see the
Customizing section of this guide).

This task shows how to create linear members.
1. Click the Member icon.
The Linear Member Definition and Point Definition dialog boxes appear.
Note: Double-click the icon to keep the dialog box and create more than one member.
2. In the Type list, select the type of member you want to create:
Column
Beam
H-Brace
V-Brace.
You can define custom member types using the Tools -> Option command.
3. In the Section list, select the shape you want to use. Click:
One of the available section names, or
Other section... to access catalog sections not already listed.
The first time you enter the workbench, you must initialize the section list with catalog and/or user
sections.
Right-click in the dialog box box and select Section properties from the contextual menu to view
geometrical and mechanical properties of the selected section.
The Section Properties dialog box appears:

Select the Mechanical Properties tab:
4. In the preview or in the Anchor point list, select the desired point at which to anchor the section along the
support axis.
Note: Since the section
selected is symmetrical,
gravity anchor points
coincide with standard
anchor points.
The illustration to the right

shows standard and gravity
anchor points for a channel
shape section.

5. In the Orientation box, use the arrows to change the angular dimension value and orient the section
around its anchor point:
The Orientation field is updated in 90 degree increments by default. Right-click in this field to
change the step.
In the illustrations below, the anchor point is top left.
Right-click in the Orientation field to change the orientation step or range:
6. In the Direction list, select how you want to place the member.
You can place members using points, a plane or an axis.
Unspecified Planes and Lines
When placing parallel to or on an unspecified plane, click the Direction box and select a plane
before defining the member limits.
The member is placed parallel to or projected onto the plane.
When placing parallel to an unspecified line, click the Direction box and select a line before defining
the member limits.

Specifying an Offset to XY, YZ or XZ Plane
Specifying an offset is particularly useful when creating members between two existing structures. The
offset is computed along the normal to the defined plane.
Click the Offset checkbox and enter a value or use the arrows to change the value in the Offset
field. You can enter a positive or a negative value.
Select wireframe elements or two existing structures.
This option is only available when the selected direction is parallel to the XY, YZ or XZ plane.
7. Define the limits of the member you want to create:
You can define the start and end limits of a member in a variety of different ways, by
Entering coordinates
Selecting wireframe elements
Selecting the end of an existing structure:
The member starts or ends at the end point of the support axis of the selected structure.
Selecting one of the vertices of a section
Creating a point on an existing structure using the Point on member option in the Point Definition
dialog box
Specifying a length

Entering Coordinates
Enter point coordinates in the Point Definition dialog box or in the power input field in the status bar.
You can combine coordinates and selection of wireframe elements when defining start and end
points for members.
Selecting Wireframe Elements
Wireframe elements are useful construction aids. To create a construction grid, see Creating a Grid.
Select a wireframe element in the geometry area.

You can combine coordinates and selection of wireframe elements when defining start and end
points for members.
Creating a Point on an Existing Structure
Click Point on member in the Point Definition dialog box.

Select the end of an existing structure: the offset is defined from the selected end.
Enter an offset in the dialog box or slide the offset handler.
Click OK.
Specifying a Length
Enter point coordinates or select a wireframe element to define the start point.
Click the Length checkbox and enter a value or use the arrows to change the value in the Length
field.
Indicate in the geometry area to identify the direction.
A preview of the member guides you as you create. Any changes in the member definition are immediately
reflected in the preview.
Parallel to the z-axis; moving cursor

in negative direction
Anchor point: Bottom left
Default orientation.

Parallel to the z-axis; moving cursor

in positive direction
Anchor point: Center
Orientation: 90 degrees
The member is created and has the characteristics defined in the Member Definition dialog box.
The linear member is added to the specification tree.

To modify a member, right-click it in the specification tree and select the appropriate command from
the contextual menu.
You can translate, rotate and manipulate members.

Creating Infills
Creating Infills
This task shows how to create infills between two members.
1. Click the Infill icon.
The Infill Definition dialog box appears.
2. In the Type list, select the type of infill you want to create:
Column
Beam
H-Brace
V-Brace
The first time you enter the workbench, you must initialize the section list with catalog and/or user sections.
Right-click in the dialog box and select Section properties from the contextual menu to view geometrical and mechanical properties of the selected section.

Creating Infills
The Section Properties dialog box appears:
4. In the preview or in the Anchor point list, select the desired point to anchor the section along the support axis.
Creating Infills
Note: Since the section selected is

symmetrical, gravity anchor points coincide
with standard anchor points.
The illustration to the right shows standard

and gravity anchor points for a channel
shape section.
5. In the Orientation box, use the arrows to change the angular dimension value and orient the section around its anchor point:
The Orientation field is updated in 90 degree increments by default. Right-click in this field to change the step.
6. Specify the number of infills you want to place in the Number box by scrolling to a new value with the up and down arrows.
7. (Optional) Define a support plane:

Click the Support box and select a wireframe plane or a planar face of an existing element.
If no support is defined, infills are created in the plane defined by the selected structures.
8. In the Position box, select
Relative to position infill sections with respect to the plane defined by the selected structures
Or,
Absolute to take infill section orientation into account.

Creating Infills
Relative Absolute
9. (Optional) In the Offset box, set an offset with respect to the plane in which the infills will be created.
10. Select the first structure (reference 1).
11. Select the second structure (reference 2).
The point at which you select structures is important. The system determines the end nearest this point and computes infill spacing along the selected structure
from this end.
A preview guides you as you create. Any changes in the infill
definition are immediately reflected in the preview.
Options in the Spacing boxes let you define the distances between infills as well as between infills and the ends of selected structures.

Creating Infills
12. Specify infill spacing:
To have infills placed at equal distances along structure 1:
In the Mode box, select Equal.
To specify infill position and spacing with respect to the first structure (reference 1):
In the Mode box, select Defined

In the D1 box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to specify the distance from the end of the structure to the first infill
In the D2 box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to specify the distance between infills
In the D3 box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to specify the distance from the last infill to the other end of the structure.
Note: In the Defined mode, you must enter distances D1 and D2. Distance D3 is generally deduced by the system.
To define infill position and spacing with respect to the second structure (reference 2): In the Mode box, select the appropriate option:
Equal: infills are placed at equal distances along structure 2

Perpendicular to 1: infills are placed perpendicular to structure 1
Perpendicular to 2: infills are placed perpendicular to structure 2
Same as 1: D1 and D3 distances are applied when placing infills along structure 2.
Use the Same as 1 option when structures are not parallel to keep the same distances between infills and the ends of structures.

Creating Infills
13. When satisfied, click OK to create the infills.
Infills are created and have the characteristics defined in the

Infill Definition dialog box.
Infills are added to the specification tree.
To modify infills, right-click in the specification tree and select the appropriate command from the contextual menu.
You can translate, rotate and manipulate infills.

Creating Members on Supports

This task shows how to route straight and curved members along an existing support. The member can be trimmed
to planes, intersection elements or faces of existing structures selected as limits.
This command is particularly useful when creating curved members.

Open the MemberOnSupport.CATProduct document.
1. Click the Member on Support icon.
The Member on Support dialog box appears.
2. In the Type list, select the type of member you want to create:
Column
Beam
H-Brace
V-Brace.
The first time you enter the workbench, you must initialize the section list with catalog and/or user sections.
Right-click in the dialog box and select Section properties from the contextual menu to view geometrical and
mechanical properties of the selected section.
The Section properties dialog box appears:

4. In the preview or in the Anchor point list, select the desired point to anchor the section
along the support axis.
Note: Since the section
selected is symmetrical,
gravity anchor points
coincide with standard
anchor points.
The illustration to the right

shows standard and gravity
anchor points for a channel
shape section.

5. In the Orientation box, use the arrows to change the angular dimension value and
orient the section around its anchor point:
The Orientation field is updated in 90 degree increments by default. Right-click in this

field to change the step.
6. Select the support curve or line:
Select wireframe elements created using the Grid command or the V5 Wireframe
and Surface Design product. You cannot select elements of a sketch.
The member will be routed along the selected support.

A preview guides you as you create. Any changes in member definition are
immediately reflected in the preview.
Arrows identify the direction along which a positive offset is calculated.
Right-click in the geometry area to access the contextual menu allowing you to
specify the number of sections previewed.
7. To orient the section with respect to a reference curve or surface, click the Reference
box and select the desired curve or surface.
Specifying a reference lets you create twisted members.
8. Select the first limit to which you want to trim the member
9. Select the second limit.

10. (Optional) In the Offset box, enter a value or use the arrows to change the value to
offset limit 1 or limit 2 by the specified distance.
Limits can be planes, intersection elements or the faces of existing structures.
11. Click OK to create the curved member.
The member is created and has the characteristics defined in the Member on Support
dialog box.
The curved member is added to the specification tree.
To modify a member, right-click it in the specification tree and select the

appropriate command from the contextual menu.
You can translate, rotate and manipulate members.

Creating Plates
Creating Plates
This task shows how to create different types of plate, except end plates.
Open the CreatingPlates.CATProduct document.
The sample documents looks like this:
1. Click the Plate icon.
The Plate Definition dialog box appears.
2. In the Type list, select the desired type of plate.

You can define custom plate types using the Tools -> Option command.
3. In the Thickness box, use the arrows to change the thickness value or enter a value
directly in the box.

Creating Plates
Equipment Support Structures Workbench
In the Equipment Support Structures workbench, plate thickness can be managed via
design tables. A sample table in text format is supplied with the product. If the user defines
the path to the sample table, only pre-defined thicknesses from the table can be selected.
To gain access to the sample table, define the path in your settings (Tools-> Options,
Equipment & Systems, Equipment Support Structures tab).
Click the Design table icon in the
Plate Definition dialog box.
The Design Table dialog box

appears.
Select the desired thickness, then click OK.

If you change the thickness in the design table, all plates of this thickness linked to the
design table will be updated to the new value.
You can modify or add to the sample table, or, if needed, create a new table. The
thickness table is a simple text file.
4. Select a support:
The support can be a plane or the face of an existing structure.

5. In the Offset box, use the arrows to change the distance value or enter a value directly in
the box to create the plate parallel to the support, offset by the specified distance.

Creating Plates
6. Define the contour of your plate:

Click the Sketcher icon to open the Sketcher workbench
Sketch the plate contour in the support plane
Exit the sketcher.
For more information on the Sketcher, see the Sketcher User's Guide.
The plate is created. You can now make any
on-the-fly modifications and see them
reflected in the preview.
Or,
Select points, lines or edges in the
document to define the plate contour.
An arrow normal to the support

and identifying the direction of
extrusion is displayed. As you
select elements, a preview
appears to guide you. Elements
you select are projected onto the
support plane.
Click Apply or double-click to create

the plate.
7. Select the arrow or click the Reverse direction option in the dialog box to extend the plate
in the opposite direction from that shown.
8. Adjust the plate thickness.
9. Click Apply when satisfied.

Creating Plates
You can also modify the shape of your plate and for example create a corner using the
Sketcher.
10. Click OK when done.
The plate is created and has the

characteristics defined in the Plate Definition
dialog box.
The plate is added to the specification tree.
11. Create another structure between the two

plates using a plate face as support.

Creating Plates
To redefine a plate, right-click it in the specification tree and select Definition from
You can translate, rotate and manipulate plates.

Creating End Plates
Creating End Plates

This task shows how to create a special type of plate called an end plate.
Click here to find out how to create other types of plate.
1. Click the End-Plate icon.
The End Plate Definition dialog box appears.
2. In the Type list, select the desired type of plate.

3. Define the length, width and thickness of the plate using arrows to change the values or entering
values directly in boxes.
The length and width are defined with respect to the
local axis system of the structure, for example, in the
case of an I shape, the width is defined along the x-
axis parallel to the flange and the length along the y-
axis parallel to the web.
4. Select the end of the structure at which you

want to place the end plate:
A preview appears. An arrow identifies the

direction of extrusion.
To reverse the direction of extrusion, click the arrow or click Reverse direction in the dialog
box.
You can adjust all plate characteristics in the dialog box, then click Apply to preview the
results.

Creating End Plates
5. Click OK when satisfied.
The end plate is created as defined and is

added to the specification tree.
Creating Several End Plates by Multiple Selection
Simply Cntrl-click to select more than one structure end and have several end plates created in one
go.
Changing the direction of extrusion or other plate characteristics applies to all end plates.

Modifying Members
Modifying Members
You can:
Modify the type, section, anchor point and orientation of members (Definition).
Add a positive or negative offset at member ends (Extend).
Stretch unconstrained linear members (Stretch).
Flip the section (Flip).
All modifications are done via the contextual menu on structures selected in the
specification tree.
Note: You cannot select structures you want to modify in the geometry area.
This task shows how to modify members.
1. Right-click the member you want to modify and select the type of modification you
want to make from the contextual menu.
If you have created a large number of structures, right-click the structure of interest
in the geometry area then select the Center Graph command to find your structure
in the specification tree.
Modifying Member Definition using Multiple Selection
You can modify the definition of several members in one go by Cntrl-clicking

members in the specification tree.
Note: Extend, Stretch and Flip commands are not available if a multiple selection is
made.
2. Make the required modification.

Modifying Members
Definition: make your selection(s) in the Definition dialog box that appears
and click OK when done.
Extend: the Limits Definition dialog appears. Set new values in offset boxes
and/or select a new limit where appropriate then click OK when done.
For structures created by specifying a length, you can also modify the
length value.

Modifying Members
Stretch: a graphic manipulator is displayed letting you stretch the

unconstrained linear member along the main axes of the section. Stretch
your structure and click OK in the Point Definition dialog box when done.
Important: This command is only available for unconstrained linear

members, i.e. those created by entering coordinates or with the Keep
link with selected object option de-activated).

Modifying Members
Flip: select this command to flip an asymmetric section.

Modifying Plates
Modifying Plates
You can modify the definition of both plates and end plates.
All modifications are done via the contextual menu on structures selected in the
specification tree.
Note: You cannot select structures you want to modify in the geometry area.
This task shows how to change plate characteristics.
1. Right-click the plate you want to

modify and select Definition from
If you have created a large number of structures, right-click the structure of

interest in the geometry area then select the Center Graph command to find your
structure in the specification tree.
Modifying Plate Definition using Multiple Selection
You can modify the definition of several plates in one go by Cntrl-clicking plates in
the specification tree. This capability is not available for end plates.
Note: Plate contours can only modified one by one.

2. Make the required modification in the Definition dialog box that appears and click
OK when done.
If you selected a plate:
If you selected an end plate:

Modifying Plates
The table below summarizes what you can modify:
Plates End plates

Multiple selection Yes, but plate No
contours can
only be
modified singly
Type Yes Yes
Thickness Yes Yes
Offset Yes No
Contour Yes Length & width
Direction of Yes Yes
extrusion

Joining Structures
Joining Structures
Joints define how member ends are cut and are associative. If you modify the member,
the joint is automatically recomputed.
This task shows how to specify the type of joint between members.
1. Click the Joint icon.
The Joint Definition dialog box appears.
2. In the Type list, select the

desired type, for example
Normal cut.
Types available are:

None: no cut.
This option lets you remove a previously applied cut.
Weld cut: a cutting plane is used to cut the member you want to trim.
Miter cut: members are perpendicular with ends cut at an angle.
Normal cut: ends of members are cut perpendicular to the support axis.

Joining Structures
Equipment Support Structures

Workbench
Another type is available in the

Equipment Support Structures
workbench only:
Remove: material is removed

from the member you want to
trim to accommodate the other
member.
The result
differs
depending
on the first
member
selected.
3. In the Offset box, use the arrows to change the offset value or enter a value
directly in the box to offset the member you want to trim from the trimming
member.
4. Select the member serving as limit (trimming member).
5. Select the member you want to trim.
It is important to select members in the correct order.
6. Click Apply to create the cut.
Members are cut back as specified in the dialog box and the joint is identified in
the specification tree.
Curved members cannot be trimmed because the cutting plane may intersect the
curve at more than one location.

Points
Translating Components
This task will show you two ways to translate a component:
by entering translation values
by selecting geometrical elements to define a translation direction.
The component to be translated must belong to the active component.

The option "Automatic switch to Design mode" is available for this command. For more about
this option, refer to Access to geometry in the Infrastructure User's Guide.
If you are working in Assembly Design workshop, this task can be accomplished if you use CATIA P1
configuration only.
Open the MovingComponents01.CATProduct document.
1. Click the Translate or Rotation icon .
The Move dialog box is displayed.
Either you specify an offset value between the element and x, y or z axis, or you select a
geometric element to define the direction you need.
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Points
2. Select the component to be translated, i.e.

CRIC_BRANCH_3.
By entering values
3. Enter 50 mm as the offset value, in the Offset X field. The component will be translated
along x axis.
4. Click Apply.
The selected component is translated accordingly.
5. Click the Invert button to reverse the previous operation and translate the component in the
opposite direction.
The component is translated in the opposite direction.
You can click Apply as many times as you wish to translate the component to the desired
position.

Points
6. Click OK to close the dialog box.
7. Repeat steps 1 and 2.
By selecting geometric elements
8. Click the Selection button to define a new translation with respect to a geometric element.
The Translation tab contents is grayed out.
If you select a line or a plane you need to enter a distance value. The translation is then
done along the selected line or normal to the selected plane. Selecting two faces or planes
assumes these elements are parallel.
9. Select the red and blue faces as shown.
These faces are parallel.
CATIA computes the distance between these faces. The Offset field then displays this
distance value:
Offset X: 20mm
Offset Y: 0mm
Offset Z: 0mm
10. Click Apply to translate the blue component.
You can apply this translation to any other

components. You just need to select it and
click the Apply button.
11. Click OK to exit.

Points
Using CATIA P2 configuration, you can translate constrained components using the Shift key
and the compass.

Points
Rotating Components
This task will show you the two ways of rotating a component:
by entering the rotation angle and specifying the rotation axis
by selecting a geometric element as the rotation axis and entering the angle value.
The component to be rotated must belong to the active component.

The option "Automatic switch to Design mode" is available for this command. For more about
this option, refer to Access to geometry in the Infrastructure User's Guide.
If you are working in Assembly Design workshop, this task can be accomplished if you use CATIA P1
configuration only.
1. Click the Translate or Rotation icon .
The Move dialog box is displayed.
The Move dialog box is displayed. Translation options are available. To find out how to
translate components, refer to Translating a Component.
2. Click the Rotation tab.
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Points
3. Select the component you wish to rotate, that

is CRIC_BRANCH_1.
Entering a rotation angle
4. For example, check the Axis Y option to specify the axis of rotation.
5. Enter 90 as the angle value in the Angle field.
6. Click Apply.
The selected component is rotated

accordingly.
7. Click OK to close the dialog box.
8. Repeat steps 1, 2 and 3.
Selecting geometry to define the axis of rotation

9. Click the Selection button to define a new rotation with respect to a geometrical element.
10. Select the edge as shown to specify the new

rotation axis.
11. Enter 90deg in the Angle field.

Points
12. Click Apply to rotate the red component.
You can apply this rotation to any other

components. You just need to select it and
click the Apply button.
Using CATIA P2 configuration, you can rotate constrained components by means of the
Shift key and the compass.

Points
Manipulating Components
The Manipulate command lets you move a component freehand with the mouse. It is less
constraining than the Translate and Rotate commands.
This task will show you how to manipulate a component.
The component you wish to manipulate must belong to the active component.

1. Click the Manipulate icon .
The Manipulation Parameters dialog box appears. You can translate or rotate components
using one of the following options:
The first and second horizontal rows are reserved for translations. You can move your
component along the x, y or z-axis as well as in the xy, yz and xz planes
The third row is reserved for rotations. You can rotate your component around the x, y
or z-axis
The fourth column lets you specify the direction of your choice by selecting a
geometric element. This element defines the direction of the move or the axis of
rotation.
2. Click the Drag along Y axis icon .
3. Select Set1 as the component to be translated.
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Points
4. Drag Set1.
The component is translated in the Y axis direction.
5. Now select CRIC_FRAME and click Drag around Y axis icon .
6. Drag the component. You are rotating it around the Y axis.

Points
7. Check the option With respect to constraints. If you repeat the previous operation, you will
notice that you are not allowed to do it. The existing parallelism constraint prevents you from
moving the component.
Use the Shift key and the compass to manipulate constrained components.

Advanced Tasks
Advanced Tasks
The advanced tasks you will perform in the Structure Design workbench illustrate
interoperability with other V5 products.
Generating BOMs
VB macros can be used to simplify and automate the repetitive tasks in your design as
well as generate BOMs.
For more information, see Structure on the Automation Documentation Home Pae.
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Sketch profiles for user sections: Sketch your profile in the Sketcher workbench
then save the sketch as a CATPart document in the directory defined in the
Structure Design tab of the Options dialog box
Create cutouts: Edit a plate, then switch to the Part Design workbench. Sketch the
contour of the cutout then create it using the Pocket icon.
Create flanges: Edit a plate, then switch to the Sheet Metal Design workbench. Use
Walls Recognition and Flange Definition icons.
Creating assembly constraints: Switch to the Assembly Design workbench and
place desired constraints on structures.
Generate drawings: Switch to the Generative Drafting workbench and set drawing
options in the New Drawing Creation dialog box.
Sketch profiles for user sections: Sketch your profile in the Sketcher workbench
then save the sketch as a CATPart document in the directory defined in the
Structure Design tab of the Options dialog box
Define anchor points for user sections: Edit the sketch, create a construction point
renaming it with the prefix catStr. Exit the sketcher then save the document.
Create & complete parametric section catalogs: Make your file tree, create design
tables and CSV files then run your macro to generate the catalog.
Generating BOMs
Generating BOMs
You can generate Bills of Materials (BOMs) in the form of Excel reports or CSV files.
This task shows how to use a sample macro to generate a BOM in the form of an Excel report. You can in
this way obtain critical design information.
The sample macro SectionQuantityList.CATScript is available in the /install_folder/code/command
folder. For more information on the installation folder, see the Infrastructure User's Guide.
1. Select the structures for which you want to generate the BOM.
Use the Edit ->Search command to assist you identify structures of interest.
2. Run the macro:

Select Tools ->Macro ->Macros...
Select the macro in the Macro dialog box and click Run to run the macro.
You can also drag and drop the macro onto your toolbar using Tools ->Customize -
>Commands ->Macros. Then simply click the icon to run the macro.
The BOM is generated in the form of an Excel report. Product Structure and Structure Design
attributes are listed.
SectionQuantityList.CATScript
For more information on the CATScript itself, see Structure on the Automation Documentation Home Page.
'// COPYRIGHT DASSAULT SYSTEMES 1999

'//============================================================================
'//
'// Language="VBSCRIPT"
'// Sample of macro to extract the Bill Of Material for Structure Design
'//
'//============================================================================
'// This CATScript assumes that the user has selected Structural objects
'// from the Specification Viewer or the 3D Window.
'//
'// It is advised that the user understand the VBScript and VBA concepts before
'// attempting to modify the code to suit their needs. Microsoft Excel 97
'// provides excellent documentation on the use of VBScript and VBA.
'//============================================================================
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Generating BOMs
dim excel as AnyObject

dim workbooks as AnyObject
dim workbook as AnyObject
dim sheets as AnyObject
dim sheet as AnyObject
dim excelTemplate as String
dim excelTemplatePath as String
dim strWB as Workbench
dim strServ as AnyObject
dim currentRow as integer
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// Default path of the excel file template
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
strCATCommandPath = CATIA.SystemService.Environ("CATCommandPath")
excelTemplate = "SectionQuantityListTemplate.xls"
excelTemplatePath = strCATCommandPath + "\" + excelTemplate
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// User customization of the attributes which will be extracted
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
dim nbColumns as integer
nbColumns = 12
dim column(12)
column(1) = "MemberType"
column(2) = "SectionName"
column(3) = "FamilyName"
column(4) = "CatalogName"
column(5) = "Length"
column(6) = "PlateType"
column(7) = "Thickness"
column(8) = "Surface"
column(9) = "Wet area"
column(10) = "Volume"
column(11) = "Material"
column(12) = "Mass"
dim posPartNumber as integer
posPartNumber = 1
dim posName as integer
posName = 2
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// Start Excel
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub StartEXCEL()
Err.Clear
On Error Resume Next
Set excel = GetObject (,"EXCEL.Application")
If Err.Number <> 0 Then
Err.Clear

Generating BOMs
Set excel = CreateObject ("EXCEL.Application")
End If
excel.Application.Visible = TRUE
set workbooks = excel.Application.WorkBooks
set workbook = workbooks.Add(excelTemplatePath)
If Err.Number <> 0 Then
Dim strMessage
strMessage = "Error Loading Template File:" +

excelTemplatePath + Chr(13)
strMessage = strMessage + Chr(13) + "Check the
following...." + Chr(13)
strMessage = strMessage + "(1)Template File has
read-write capability" + Chr(13)
strMessage = strMessage + "(2)Template File path
is valid"
msgbox (strMessage)
End If
set sheets = workbook.Worksheets
set sheet = sheets("Parameters list")
End Sub
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// Exit Excel
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub EndEXCEL()
workbook.Close
excel.Quit
End Sub
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// Write in Excel
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub WriteInExcel(iRow, iColumn, iString)
if (Len(iString) > 0) then
dim whichColumn as integer

whichColumn = 0
Select Case iColumn
Case "PartNumber"

Generating BOMs
whichColumn = 1
Case "Name"
whichColumn = 2
End Select
if (whichColumn = 0) then
dim NotTheSame as Integer

dim i as Integer
NotTheSame = 0
for i = 1 to nbColumns
NotTheSame = StrComp(column(i), iColumn, 0)
if (NotTheSame = 0) then
whichColumn = 2 + i
Exit for
end if
Next
end if
sheet.Cells(iRow, whichColumn) = iString

sheet.Cells(iRow, whichColumn).Select
end if
End Sub
Sub PrintParameters(iProduct)
dim parameters as Parameters

dim param as Parameter
dim nbParam as integer

WriteInExcel currentRow, "PartNumber", iProduct.PartNumber
WriteInExcel currentRow, "Name", iProduct.Name
dim RefProduct as Product

set RefProduct = iProduct.ReferenceProduct

Generating BOMs
set parameters = iProduct.ReferenceProduct.Parameters
nbParameters = parameters.Count
dim i as Integer
dim parm as Parameter
if (nbParameters > 0) then
if (column(i) = "Length") then
dim length as double
length = strWB.StrComputeServices.
GetLength(iProduct)
if (length > 0) then

WriteInExcel currentRow, column(i),
length
end if
Elseif (column(i) = "Thickness") then
dim thickness as double
thickness = strWB.StrComputeServices.
GetThickness(iProduct)
if (thickness > 0) then

thickness
end if
Elseif (column(i) = "Surface") then
dim surface as double
surface = strWB.StrComputeServices.
GetSurface(iProduct)
if (surface > 0) then

surface
end if
Elseif (column(i) = "Wet area") then
dim wetarea as double

wetarea = strWB.StrComputeServices.

Generating BOMs
GetWetArea(iProduct)
wetarea
Elseif (column(i) = "Volume") then
dim volume as double

volume = strWB.StrComputeServices.
GetVolume(iProduct)
volume
Elseif (column(i) = "Mass") then
dim mass as double

mass = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetMass
(iProduct)
mass
Elseif ( column(i) = "Material") then
set param = parameters.GetItem(RefProduct.Name &

"\" & column(i))
if (Err.Number <> 0) then set param = Nothing
if (Not(param Is Nothing)) then

WriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), param.
ValueasString
end if
Else
set param = parameters.GetItem(column(i))
if (Err.Number <> 0) then set param = Nothing

WriteInExcel currentRow, column(i), param.
ValueasString
end if
end if
Next
end if
End Sub
Sub CATMain()

Generating BOMs
StartExcel
dim product as Product

dim nbProduct as integer
nbProduct = 0
currentRow = 2
dim doc as Document

dim sel as Selection
set doc = CATIA.ActiveDocument

set strWB = doc.GetWorkbench("StrWorkbench")
set strServ = strWB.StrComputeServices
set sel = doc.Selection

set product = sel.FindObject("CATIAProduct")
Do Until(product Is Nothing)
nbProduct = nbProduct + 1
PrintParameters(product)
if (Err.Number <> 0) then set product = Nothing
currentRow = currentRow + 1
Loop
' EndExcel
End Sub
Generating BOMS in the form of CSV Files
Bills of Materials can also be generated in the form of CSV files. This is particularly useful when
working on UNIX.
A sample macro QuantityListCSV.CATScript has likewise been delivered in the /install_folder/

code/command folder.
Run this macro as described above.
QuantityListCSV.CATScript

Generating BOMs

'//============================================================================
'//
'// Sample of macro to extract the Bill Of Material for Structure Design
'//
'//============================================================================
'// This CATScript assumes that the user has selected Structural objects
'// from the Specification Viewer or the 3D Window.
'//
'// It is advised that the user understand the VBScript and VBA concepts before
'// attempting to modify the code to suit their needs. Microsoft Excel 97
'// provides excellent documentation on the use of VBScript and VBA.
'//============================================================================
dim excel as AnyObject

dim workbooks as AnyObject
dim workbook as AnyObject
dim sheets as AnyObject
dim sheet as AnyObject
dim excelTemplate as String
dim excelTemplatePath as String
dim strWB as Workbench
dim strServ as AnyObject
dim currentRow as integer
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// User customization of the attributes which will be extracted
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
dim nbColumns as integer

nbColumns = 12
dim column(12)
column(1) = "MemberType"
column(2) = "SectionName"
column(3) = "FamilyName"
column(4) = "CatalogName"
column(5) = "Length"
column(6) = "PlateType"
column(7) = "Thickness"
column(8) = "Surface"
column(9) = "Wet area"
column(10) = "Volume"
column(11) = "Material"
column(12) = "Mass"
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// Find parameters value
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub PrintParameters(iText as TextStream, iProduct as Product)
dim parameters as Parameters

dim userParameters as Parameters

Generating BOMs
dim param as Parameter

dim nbParam as integer
dim textLine as string

textLine = Cstr(iProduct.PartNumber) & ";"
textLine = textLine & Cstr(iProduct.Name) & ";"
dim RefProduct as Product

set RefProduct = iProduct.ReferenceProduct
set parameters = iProduct.ReferenceProduct.Parameters
set userParameters = iProduct.ReferenceProduct.UserRefProperties
Dim plate As StrPlate

nameProd = iProduct.Name
Dim plates as StrPlates
Set plates = iProduct.Parent.Parent.GetTechnologicalObject

("StructurePlates")
if (not(plates is nothing)) then

set plate = plates.Item(nameProd)
end if
nbParameters = parameters.Count
dim i as Integer
dim parm as Parameter
if (nbParameters > 0) then
Err.Clear
' length to cut for a member

if (column(i) = "Length") then
dim length as double
length = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetLength(iProduct)
if (length > 0) then

textLine = textLine & Cstr(length)
end if
' thickness for a plate

Elseif (column(i) = "Thickness") then
dim thickness as double
if (Not(plate Is Nothing)) then

thickness = plate.StandardThickness
textLine = textLine & Cstr(thickness)
end if

Generating BOMs
' surface for a plate

Elseif (column(i) = "Surface") then
dim surface as double
surface = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetSurface(iProduct)
if (surface > 0) then

textLine = textLine & Cstr(surface)
end if
' wet area for structure objects

Elseif (column(i) = "Wet area") then
dim wetarea as double
wetarea = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetWetArea(iProduct)
if (wetarea > 0) then

textLine = textLine & Cstr(wetarea)
end if
' volume for structure object

Elseif (column(i) = "Volume") then
dim volume as double
volume = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetVolume(iProduct)
if (volume > 0) then

textLine = textLine & Cstr(volume)
end if
' mass for structure object

Elseif (column(i) = "Mass") then
dim mass as double
mass = strWB.StrComputeServices.GetMass(iProduct)
if (mass > 0) then

textLine = textLine & Cstr(mass)
end if
' material
Elseif (column(i) = "Material") then
set param = parameters.GetItem(RefProduct.Name & "\" &
column(i))
if (Err.Number <> 0) Then Set param = Nothing

textLine = textLine & Cstr(param.ValueAsString)
end if
' user attribute

Else
set param = parameters.Item(column(i))
if (Err.Number <> 0) Then Set param = Nothing
' f(x) attribute

Generating BOMs

' user propertie on product
else
Err.Clean
set param = userParameters.Item(column(i))

end if
end if
end if
textLine = textLine & ";"
Next
end if
' write the line

iText.Write(textLine)
iText.Write(Chr(10))
End Sub
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
'// Main
'//---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub CATMain()
dim fileSystem as FileSystem

set fileSystem = CATIA.FileSystem
dim bomFile as File

set bomFile = fileSystem.CreateFile("e:\tmp\bom.txt", true)
dim text as TextStream

set text = bomFile.OpenAsTextStream("ForWriting")
dim product as Product

dim nbProduct as integer
nbProduct = 0
dim doc as Document

dim sel as Selection
set doc = CATIA.ActiveDocument

set strWB = doc.GetWorkbench("StrWorkbench")
set strServ = strWB.StrComputeServices
set sel = doc.Selection

Generating BOMs
Do Until(product Is Nothing)
nbProduct = nbProduct + 1
PrintParameters text, product
if (Err.Number <> 0) then

set product = Nothing
Err.clean
end if
Loop
text.Close
End Sub

This task shows how to sketch profiles for user sections using Sketcher capabilities.
1. Start the Sketcher workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Sketcher).
2. Select the xy working plane in the geometry area or specification tree.
The Sketcher workbench is displayed.

User sections created using Sketcher capabilities must be created in the xy plane.
3. Sketch your profile, for example use the Circle

icon to sketch a simple circle that will give a round bar
or circular tubing section:
Point where you want to place the center of the
circle.
Drag to set the radius.
Click when satisfied.
Note: It is recommended that profile dimensions match actual section dimensions.

4. If desired, set constraints.
5. Exit the sketcher.
6. Using File -> Save, save the sketch as a CATPart document in the folder
dedicated to storing available sections defined in your settings (see the
Customizing section of this guide).
Your sketch now appears as a resolved section in the Section list of the
appropriate dialog box. You are now ready to use it to create a structure.
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/cfyug_C2/cfyugsectionprofile.htm (1 of 2)5/22/2007 11:09:24 PM

For more information on sketching profiles and setting constraints, see the
Sketcher User's Guide.
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/cfyug_C2/cfyugsectionprofile.htm (2 of 2)5/22/2007 11:09:24 PM

Creating Cutouts
Creating Cutouts
This task shows how to use Part Design capabilities to create cutouts. Cutouts are sketch-
based features.
It is strongly recommended that you use only standard Part Design commands, such as
Pocket, Hole, Edge Fillet, Chamfer and Split. Using other commands may corrupt your
document.
For more information on Part Design capabilities, see the Part Design User's Guide.
1. Create a simple plate structure in

the Structure Design workbench.
2. Right-click the plate you just

created and select Edit from the
contextual menu.
3. Switch to the Part Design workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Part

Design).
4. Select one of the plate faces to define the working plane.
5. Click the Sketcher icon to enter the Sketcher workbench.
6. Click the Elongated Hole icon to sketch your contour.
7. Click where you want to start the
major axis, then drag.
8. Click when satisfied to create the

major axis.

Creating Cutouts
9. Drag and click again to define the

minor axis.
The cutout contour has been

defined.
10. Exit the Sketcher.

11. Click the Pocket icon in the Part Design workbench.
The Pocket Definition dialog box appears and your cutout is previewed.
12. Select Up to last in the Type box to define the limit of your cutout.
The cutout feature will be extended from the sketch plane to the last face
encountered.

Creating Cutouts
13. Click OK to create the cutout.

Creating Flanges
Creating Flanges
This task shows how to use Sheetmetal Design capabilities to create flanges.
Sheetmetal capabilities are only available for plates.
1. Create a simple plate structure in the

Structure Design workbench.
2. Right-click the plate you just created and

select Edit from the contextual menu.
3. Switch to the Sheet Metal Design workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design

->Sheet Metal Design).
4. Click the Walls Recognition icon to have the plate recognized and access
Sheet Metal Design commands.
5. Click the Flange Definition icon.
The Flange Definition dialog box appears.
6. Select the edge on which you want to

create a flange
7. Specify the flange radius, length and
angle. In our example, we entered 2mm,
50mm and 120degrees respectively.
8. Click OK to create the flange.

Creating Flanges
All Sheetmetal Design commands are available for plates. For more information
on Sheetmetal Design capabilities, see the Sheetmetal Design User's Guide.


Creating assembly constraints between structures lets you design in context and, in the case of
changes, lets you control the propagation of modifications. Constraints can be placed as you
work.
Note: You can also design in context using a grid.
Associativity: To ensure associativity, you must check the following options in the General tab
of the Options dialog box (Tools -> Options..., Mechanical Design -> Part
Design):
Keep link with selected object

Synchronize all external references for update.
This task shows how to place an offset constraint between two structures using the Assembly
Design workbench.
Open the CreatingAssemblyConstraints.CATProduct document.
1. Select the Assembly Design workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design ->Assembly

Design).
2. Click the Offset Constraint icon
3. Select the inside face of one of the two columns.
4. Select the corresponding face on the other column.
The Constraint Properties dialog box appears.

5. Enter an offset of 1000mm in the dialog box, then click OK.
The two structures are now constrained by an offset distance of 1000mm. If you move one
of the structures, the distance between the structures will remain 1000mm.

6. Click the Manipulation icon, then the Drag along Y axis

icon in the dialog box that appears.
7. Select one of the structures and drag to a new position, then click OK in the dialog box.
8. Select the structure you moved, then click the Fix Component icon to fix it in space.
9. If necessary, click the Update icon to update your structure and take changes into
account.
The entire structure is updated to respect the offset constraint.

For more information on creating constraints, see the Assembly Design User's Guide.

Generating Drawings
Generating Drawings
This task shows how to generate drawings from your structures using the Generative
Drafting workbench.
1. Create a column or
beam structure in the
Structure Design
workbench.
2. Switch to the Drafting workbench (Start ->Mechanical Design -

>Drafting).
The New Drawing
Creation dialog box
appears.
The default drawing

standard, format and
scale is indicated.
3. Select the drawing

layout you want.
4. Click Modify... to change the scale of the drawing.

Generating Drawings
5. Change the scale to

0.1 in the New
Drawing dialog box
that appears, then
click OK.
6. Click OK in the New

Drawing Creation
dialog box to create
the drawing.
The Drafting workbench is opened and your drawing displayed.
You can use Generative Drafting and Interactive Drafting to annotate and
dimension your drawings. For more information, see the appropriate User's Guide.

Generating Drawings


Anchor points can be defined on user-defined parametric sections.
Note: All resolved sections automatically inherit the defined anchor point.
This task shows how to define an anchor point.
1. Edit the sketched section.
2. If the anchor point you want to define does not correspond to an existing
point of the sketch, create an appropriate construction point.
3. Rename the point:
Right-click the point and select Properties
from the contextual menu.
Select the Feature Properties tab in the
Properties dialog box.
Rename the point using the prefix catStr, for
example catStrUserAnchorPoint.
4. Exit the sketcher, then save the sketch as a CATPart document (File -
>Save).
5. Return to the Structure Design workbench:
The new anchor point is automatically displayed.
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/cfyug_C2/cfyugsectionanchor.htm5/22/2007 11:38:09 PM
Creating & Completing Parametric Section Catalogs

This task shows how to create a user catalog for parametric sections.
You can create user catalogs in three different ways:
Using the Catalog Editor with one sketch corresponding to one family and linked to one design
table.
With a Part Family in Batch Mode with one sketch corresponding to one family and linked to one
design table.
In Batch Mode where one sketch is used for several families and design tables are not linked to
the sketch. These catalogs are built in the same way as the sample catalogs supplied with the
product.
Sample CatScript documents are provided to illustrate the batch mode and will be mentioned below at
the appropriate step in the task. They are to be found in the online documentation folder, under cfyug/
samples.
Creating a Catalog using the Catalog Editor
This first task introduces the Catalog Editor workbench which provides interactive commands to create
your own catalogs.
1. Make a USER directory with the same name as your catalog and sub-directories for sketches and
design tables:
USER/Sketches
USER/DesignTables.
2. Sketch the profiles for your user sections and store in the USER/Sketches directory.
Standard sketches of parametric sections (I, U, L, T, double U, double L, bulb and tube shapes)
supplied with the product are located in the directory install_folder/startup/components/
StructuralCatalogs/Sketchs.
3. Create design tables, naming the header in the first column PartNumber.
Note: You can create design tables in two ways:
Independently of sketches, in which case you must link tables to sketches (ensuring that
design table column headers correspond to sketch parameters).
Based on the sketches, in which case no linking is necessary.
Design tables contain the geometric parameters used to generate the section.
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/cfyug_C2/cfyugsectionparametric.htm (1 of 11)5/22/2007 11:41:29 PM

4. Use the Catalog Editor to create your catalog:

From the Start menu, select Infrastructure ->Catalog Editor to open the Catalog
Editor workbench.
Use the Add Part Family icon for Structure Design catalogs.
For more information, see Creating a Catalog using the Catalog Editor in the Infrastructure User's
Guide.
Creating a Catalog with a Part Family in Batch Mode
1. Make a USER directory with the same name as your catalog and sub-directories for sketches,
design tables and CSV files:
USER/Sketches
USER/DesignTables
USER/CSVFiles
USER/VBScript.
3. Create design tables, naming the header in the first column PartNumber.
Note: You can create design tables in two ways:
Independently of sketches, in which case you must link tables to sketches (ensuring that
design table column headers correspond to sketch parameters).
Based on the sketches, in which case no linking is necessary.

4. Create a CSV-type file for Chapters.
CSV files map family names to appropriate family catalogs.
Chapters correspond to the first level in a catalog and provide a way of classifying other chapters
or families.
Typical CSV file:
CHAPTER;DIN;I_SectionCatalogDIN;
Keywords;Family;
Types;String;
;Quadrat_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Quadrat_Hohlprofile.catalog
;Rechteck_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Rechteck_Hohlprofile.catalog
5. Create ENDCHAPTER and CHAPTER CATScripts.
Sample CATScripts are given below. They are to be found in the online documentation folder,
under cfyug/samples.
ENDCHAPTER
Open the file USER_EndChapterswithPartFamily.CATScript. In our example, the content

looks like this:
'//============================================================================
'//
'// To build catalog from a parametric part
'//
'//============================================================================
'// Major interface used:
'//
'// interface VB Name Remarks
'// ----------- ------------ --------------
'// CATIACatalogDocument CatalogDocument create catalog
'//
'//============================================================================
Option Explicit

'******************************************************************************
' GLOBAL variable declarations section
'******************************************************************************
Dim strGInputPath
Dim strGOutputPath
'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
'// User customizable sections
'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Const NBEndChapter = 2
Dim strArrayEndChapter (2)
Dim strArrayModelFile (2)
Dim strArrayCatalogFile (2)
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub InitEndChapterArray ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
' Name of the description displayed in the catalog browser
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strArrayEndChapter(1) = "Tees"
strArrayEndChapter(2) = "Equal Angles"
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
' Name of the .CATPart defining the sketches
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strArrayModelFile(1) = "TShape"
strArrayModelFile(2) = "LShape"
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
' Name of the generated files .catalog used in the USER.CATScript
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strArrayCatalogFile(1) = "USER_Tees"
strArrayCatalogFile(2) = "USER_Equal_Angles"
End Sub
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub GetPath ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strGInputPath = InputBox("Path of the models directory:", _
"Input path for model files", _

"e:\users\jcm\USER\Sketches\")
strGOutputPath = InputBox("Path of the catalog output directory:", _
"Output path for Catalogs", _

"e:\users\jcm\USER\")
End Sub '

'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sub CATMain()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dim objCatalogDoc As Document

Dim intK As Integer
Dim strChapterName As String
Dim strModelName As String
Dim strCatalogName As String
'
InitEndChapterArray
'
GetPath
'
For intK = 1 to NBEndChapter
strModelName = strGInputPath & strArrayModelFile (intK) &

".CATPart"
strChapterName = strArrayEndChapter (intK)
strCatalogName = strGOutputPath & strArrayCatalogFile
(intK) & ".catalog"
Set objCatalogDoc = CATIA.Documents.Add("CatalogDocument")
' Calls the method on Catalog to create inside the
catalog document
' a chapter from the Design Table
objCatalogDoc.CreateChapterFromDesignTable
strChapterName , strModelName
' Saves the catalog document
objCatalogDoc.SaveAs strCatalogName
' Closes the catalog document
objCatalogDoc.Close
Next 'For intK

MsgBox "Press OK to quit", 0, "CATALOG CREATION COMPLETED"
End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// CATMain

If you want to use it, copy it and change the User customizable sections to adapt them to
your environment, or copy a sample CATScript from the one of the standard catalogs
supplied with the product and change it.
CHAPTER
Open the file USER_Chapter.CATScript. In our example, the content looks like this:


'//============================================================================
'//
'// To build catalog
'//
'//============================================================================
'//
'// ----------- ------------ --------------
'//
'//============================================================================
Option Explicit
'******************************************************************************
'******************************************************************************
Dim strGInputPath
Dim strGOutputPath
'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Const NBGCSVFile = 1
Dim strArrayGCSVFile (1)
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub InitCSVFileArray ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strArrayGCSVFile(1) = "USER"
End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// InitCSVFileArray
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub GetPath ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strGInputPath = InputBox("Path of the catalog input directory:", _
"Input path for CSV files", _

"e:\users\jcm\USER\CsvFiles\")
"Output path for Catalogs", _

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// GetPath

'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub CATMain ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dim intK As Integer
Dim strCSVFile
Dim strCatalogFile

InitCSVFileArray
GetPath
For intK = 1 to NBGCSVFile
strCSVFile = strGInputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK) & ".

csv"
strCatalogFile = strGOutputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK)
& ".catalog"
'---------- Generate catalog
objCatalogDoc.CreateCatalogFromcsv strCSVFile,
strCatalogFile
Next 'For intK

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// CATMain

6. You are now ready to run the batch operation:
Start a Version 5 session

In the Macro dialog box, set Macro in to External File
Select the appropriate CATScript, then click Run.
It is important to run the CATScript generating the families (END CHAPTERS) before the one
generating the chapter (CHAPTER) since the chapter references the families.
Creating a Catalog in Batch Mode
1. Make a USER directory with the same name as your catalog and sub-directories for sketches,
design tables and CSV files:
USER/Sketches
USER/DesignTables (this sub-directory must be named DesignTables)
USER/CSVFiles
USER/VBScript.

3. Create design tables.
Note: Do not link design tables to sketches.
4. Create CSV-type files for End Chapters and Chapters.
CSV files map section names to appropriate parametric sketches.
END CHAPTER Conventions
End chapters correspond to catalog families. A family is a set of components.
For example, ENDCHAPTER: Name;Icon;DesignTable;

If the design table is not linked to a sketch, the name of the design table must be the last
parameter in the first line starting ENDCHAPTER.
The first keyword must be Section
The full path name of documents must be given.
Typical CSV file:
ENDCHAPTER;HEA;I_SectionStructureI;OTUA_HEA;
Keywords;Section;
Types;String;
HEA100;HEA100;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\Sketches\IShape.CATPart
CHAPTER Conventions
Chapters correspond to the first level in a catalog and provide a way of classifying other chapters
or families.
Typical CSV file:
CHAPTER;DIN;I_SectionCatalogDIN;
Keywords;Family;
Types;String;
;Quadrat_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Quadrat_Hohlprofile.catalog
;Rechteck_Hohlprofile;e:\users\jcm\StructuralCatalogs\USER\Rechteck_Hohlprofile.catalog
5. Create ENDCHAPTER and CHAPTER CATScripts.
Sample CATScripts are given below. They are to be found in the online documentation folder,
under cfyug/samples.
ENDCHAPTER
Open the file USER_EndChaptersStandard.CATScript. In our example, the content looks

like this:


'//============================================================================
'//
'// To build catalog
'//
'//============================================================================
'//
'// ----------- ------------ --------------
'//
'//============================================================================
Option Explicit
'******************************************************************************
'******************************************************************************
Dim strGInputPath
Dim strGOutputPath
'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
'@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Const NBGCSVFile = 2
Dim strArrayGCSVFile (2)
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub InitCSVFileArray ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strArrayGCSVFile(1) = "Equal_Angles"
strArrayGCSVFile(2) = "Tees"
End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// InitCSVFileArray
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub GetPath ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
strGInputPath = InputBox("Path of the catalog input directory:", _
"Input path for CSV", _

"e:\users\jcm\USER\CsvFiles\")
"Output path for CSV", _

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// GetPath

'------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub CATMain ()
'------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dim intK As Integer
Dim strCSVFile

Dim strCatalogFile
InitCSVFileArray
GetPath
For intK = 1 to NBGCSVFile
strCSVFile = strGInputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK) & ".

csv"
strCatalogFile = strGOutputPath & strArrayGCSVFile (intK)
& ".catalog"
'---------- Generate catalog
objCatalogDoc.CreateCatalogFromcsv strCSVFile,
strCatalogFile
Next 'For intK

End Sub '/////////////////////////////////////////////// CATMain

CHAPTER
Open the file USER_Chapter.CATScript. In our example, the content is as illustrated

above.
f you want to use it, copy it and change the User customizable sections to adapt them to
6. You are now ready to run the batch operation:
Start a Version 5 session

In the Macro dialog box, set Macro in to External File
Select the appropriate CATScript, then click Run.
It is important to run the CATScript generating the families (END CHAPTERS) before the one
generating the chapter (CHAPTER) since the chapter references the families.
Completing Parametric Section Catalogs
This task shows how to add sections to existing catalogs.
To add sections to existing catalogs, you must rename the path of linked documents in CSV files
because these files contain the full path name. To do so, one Excel file per sample catalog containing an
appropriate macro is provided. For example, the Excel file for the OTUA catalog is OTUA_hierarchy.xls.
Excel files are located in the CsvFiles directory.

1 Edit the Commands sheet of the appropriate Excel file, entering the necessary information.
Note: The first sheet named Data contains all CSV files in the catalog.
2. Click Modify absolute path of pointed CATPart in CSV files to rename the path.
3. Add new sections.
4. Generate the catalog as above.

The Structure Design Version 5 application window looks like this.
Click the hotspots to see related documentation.
Design Toolbar
Assembly Toolbar
Specification Tree
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugwd0000.htm5/22/2007 11:58:52 PM
Design Toolbar
Design Toolbar
See Creating a Grid

See Making Up a List of Sections
See Creating Linear Members
See Creating Infills
See Creating Members on Supports
See Creating Plates
See Creating End Plates
See Joining Structures
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugwd0200.htm5/23/2007 12:26:15 AM
Assembly Toolbar
Assembly Toolbar
See Translating Structures and Rotating Structures

See Manipulating Structures
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugwd0201.htm5/23/2007 12:26:28 AM
Specification Tree
Specification Tree
Icons displayed in the specification tree and specific to the Structure Design workbench are as
follows:
A flat structure.
A linear or curved structure.
Support axis along which the section is anchored.
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugwd0300.htm (1 of 2)5/23/2007 12:26:51 AM

Specification Tree
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugwd0300.htm (2 of 2)5/23/2007 12:26:51 AM

Customizing
Customizing
Structure Design Settings: Before you start you first working session, you can
customize the way you work to suit your habits.
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugcu0000.htm5/23/2007 12:28:15 AM
Glossary
Glossary
A
anchor point Corresponds to the point at which a section is

anchored along the support axis
assembly constraint A geometric or dimension relation between two components in an assembly, for example a
surface contact or parallelism constraint
C
constraint In the Structure Design workshop, there are two types of constaint:
Construction constraint
Assembly constraint
construction constraint A relation between the structure you create and the underlying wireframe geometry used as
construction geometry
curved member A structure having initial curvature
E
endplate Special type of plate. The length and width are defined with respect to the local axis system
of the structure, for example, in the case of an I shape, the width is defined along the x-axis
parallel to the flange and the length along the y-axis parallel to the web
infill One or more linear members created in one go between two structures.
J
joint The way members are fastened together. Several cuts are proposed:
Weld cut: a cutting plane is used to cut the member you want to trim
Miter cut: members are perpendicular with ends cut at an angle
Normal cut: ends of members are cut perpendicular to the support axis
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stduggl.htm (1 of 2)5/23/2007 12:29:13 AM

Glossary
linear member A straight structure, for example a column or beam

M
member A linear or curved structure

O
orientation Defines how the section is oriented around its anchor point
plate A flat structure

S
section Profile defining the shape of a member

support axis The line in a member along which the selected section is anchored
W
wireframe element Elements such as points, lines or curves used as construction aids to help you create your
structures
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stduggl.htm (2 of 2)5/23/2007 12:29:13 AM

Index
Index
A
accessing
standard section catalogs
user sections
adding to
user section catalogs
anchor point(s)
creating
defined
selecting
user sections
assembly constraint(s)
creating
defined
interoperability with V5
C
catalog
standard
user
catalog browser
changing
orientation
command
End-Plate
Grid
http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/soap.mit.edu/arch/Documentation/Catia-v5r8-Docs/online/stdug_C2/stdugix.htm (1 of 8)5/23/2007 12:30:29 AM

Index
Infill
Joint
Member
Member on Support
Plate
Section
constraint
construction constraint
creating
anchor point(s)
endplates
grids
infill(s)
linear member(s)
members on support
plate(s)
structures
twisted members
curved member
D
defined
anchor point(s)
endplates
infill(s)
linear member(s)
orientation
plate(s)

Index
End-Plate command
endplates
creating
defined
modifying
structures
generating drawings
Grid command
grids
creating
Infill command
infill(s)
creating
defined
modifying
placing
spacing
structures
interoperability with V5
generating drawings

Index
sketching profiles for user sections

using Part Design for cutouts
using Sheetmetal Design for flanges
J
joining
structures
joint
Joint command
L
linear member(s)
creating
defined
modifying
placing
structures
list of sections
making
M
making
list of sections
manipulating
structures
member
Member command

Index
Member on Support command

members on support
creating
modifying
offset
structures
modifying
endplates
infill(s)
linear member(s)
members on support
plate(s)
structures
O
offset
members on support
plate(s)
orientation
changing
defined
parametric section catalogs

placing
infill(s)
linear member(s)
Plate command
plate(s)

Index
creating
defined
modifying
offset
sketching
structures
R
rotating
structures
section
Section command
sections
making list of
sketching profiles
selecting
anchor point(s)
sketching
plate(s)
user sections
spacing
infill(s)
standard section catalogs
accessing
structures
creating
endplates
infill(s)

Index
joining
linear member(s)
manipulating
members on support
modifying
plate(s)
rotating
translating
support axis
tools
translating
structures
twisted members
creating
U
adding to
creating
user sections
accessing
anchor point(s)
sketching
working with
using Part Design for cutouts
using Sheetmetal Design for flanges

Index
wireframe element
working with
user sections

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Structure Design

Modifying, Joining & Moving

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Sketching Profiles for User Sections

Working with User Sections

Sketching Profiles for User Sections

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Using This Guide

Using This Guide

For information on VB macro capabilities, refer to Structure on the Automation Documentation

Click to find out more about Conventions used in this guide.

You should be able to complete this tutorial in about 15 minutes.

Setting Up Your Session

Setting Up Your Session

The Structure Design workbench is displayed.

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6. For access to available sections:

7. Click OK in the Options dialog box when done.

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Creating Support Columns

The Member Definition and Point Definition dialog boxes appear.

2. Close the Point Definition dialog box.

The section of interest is not in this catalog.

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Browse the list of shapes, then select section IPE200.

The Section list in the Member Definition dialog box is updated.

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8. Repeat to create the other three columns.

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1. Click the Plate icon.

The Plate Definition dialog box

2. Enter the plate thickness, for example 100mm.

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5. Select the arrow to invert the orientation of the thickness.

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Bracing Your Structure

1. Double-click the Member icon.

The first part of the brace is created.

8. Select the bottom end of first column.

9. Select the top end of opposite column.

The brace at this end of the structure is finished.

10. Repeat for the other end of the structure.

Your structure now looks like this:

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The Linear Member Definition dialog box is still displayed.

1. In the Type list, select Beam.

2. In the Section list, select IPE200.

3. In the Anchor point list, select Gravity top.

4. In the Direction list, select Parallel to the X-axis.

The first support beam is created.

7. Select column 4 and indicate to identify the

The second support beam is created.

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The second connecting beam is created.

You are now ready to brace your walkway.

13. Keep the same section, IPE200.

14. In the Anchor point list, select Gravity.

15. In the Orientation box, use to arrows to change

16. In the Direction list, select Parallel to XZ plane.

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