Vanishing constraints

[trainguy]

Hi all.

We are having some problems with assemblies, where constraints are being "lost" when we open up assemblies, at various times.

I'm beginning to wonder if we should just "ground" all parts to avoid this.

Have any of you had a similar problem?

We are using Inventor 9, and Vault 4.0.

Thanks in advance,
tg

 

[Foxtrap]

Sorry tg,

We are using Inventor 9, Vault 3.0. That hasn't happened yet. The only time I get something like that is when I replace a component that isn't exactually the same as the one I'm replacing.

Does Inventor give any error message?

Fox

 

[trainguy]

Foxtrap:

We don't seem to be getting an error message.

Just unexpected results.

With all the possible parameters that may contribute to modeling problems. i.e. file versions, users unaccustomed to using Vault, Vault itself including all its "quirks", possibly inexperienced users, etc, it's really hard to determine what's really happening here.

This will be the subject of my next post, read on...

tg

 

[gib2j]

if you are saving sub assemblys within a main assembly you may not be saving constraints in the main assembly although part updates will be saved

 

[trainguy]

gib2j:

If we first save sub-assy's, then save the main assy, we are effectively saving the constraints as well.

Is this correct?

tg

 

[gib2j]

when you save the main assembly everything should be saved. we introduced vault and seemed to be losing constraints but it appears to be resolved now. our standard practice is to save the main assembly and make sure the files are checked in using inventor rather than vault explorer

 

[trainguy]

Is there a way to position parts relative to some immovable origin or object, temporarily constrain them to the proper location, them ground them once and for all and deleting the (un-necessary) constraints?

I'm willing to forego adaptativity to gain in stability, like a good old fashioned AutoCAD 2D layout.

Thanks again,
tg

 

[SeanDotson]

You need to take the time to learn how to use constraints. You do yourself a disservice is you do not. Part of the beauty of 3D modelers is that changes to the size of one part makes other parts move. You don't get this benefit by not using constraints.

That being said there is another more advanced technique called skeletal modeling. I have some tutorials on this subject at my sites.

Sean Dotson, PE

http://www.sdotson.com

http://www.mCADForums.com

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