constraint question

[dtharrett]

When I add a component to an assembly via the "add component" command by constrains, I often insert the new component in the incorrect orientation the first time. An example would be with adding a cap screw via the concentric constraint.

Part way though the process I see the little concentric constraint symbol and if I click the reverse constraint button, the concentric symbol changes slightly. See attached screen shots.

So I have two questions:
1) By selecting the reverse constraint button the concentric symbol changes. How does the look of the little symbol correlate to the direction of the item to be constrained?
2) In addition to the little concentric symbol, is there a way to get an image of the new component to show up (in the proposed orientation) prior to exiting the constraint dialog box? Basically a little preview of the new part in the assembly..

 

[cowski]

What version of NX are you using? My answers reflect what I'm seeing in NX6.

1) I've experimented a bit with the concentric constraint. When I flip the orientation of the constraint, the icon may move position slightly, but I see no difference in the symbol itself.

2) Have you turned on the preview option (see screenshot)?

 

[dtharrett]

Sorry, I'm running 7.5 with TC integration.

Just toggled on the "preview component in main window". That is exactly what I was looking for. Seems so obvious now. Thanks for for the good tip!

 

[dtharrett]

One other question related to this...
If I wanted the "preview component in main window" to default to the toggled on state, can this be done? I looked in the customer defaults area but did not see anything...

 

[cowski]

If you turn it on, add your component and press OK; it should be added to the 'dialog memory' and remain activated the next time you use it.

 

[dtharrett]

Once again, I was making things too difficult...Been searching the customer defaults & preferences for a setting. Thanks again, this is one of those tips that will save key strokes daily...