EMN File Import .asm components (Creo 8)

[GG_9918861]

Version: Creo 8.0.6

I import EMN files using the GET_Data->Import function.  I also have the config.pro flag to use the 'alternate ECAD name' so parts are created with the actual part number instead of an ecad geometry name.  

When importing, Creo will check the current workspace for an existing part of the same name.  If found, Creo will use the existing workspace part geometry.  This is useful for certain COTS parts like commercial connectors since the vendor models are often far more detailed than the EMN/EMP's prismatic geometry. Pre-populating the vendor's CAD to the workspace results in Creo placing the vendor's CAD during the EMN import.  However, this only works when the vendor's CAD is a .prt.  If the vendor CAD is a .asm, then Creo does not find the "part" during the ECAD import.  

A workaround is to convert the vendor's .asm to a .prt file using a variety of techniques, but often there are losses in cosmetics or fidelity with these methods.  

Is there a flag or setting to permit Creo to see .asm files during the ECAD import process?

[tbraxton]

There is a config option that will allow you to import the vendor models as parts. Add this to your config and test it out for a single component to verify that it works in your environment. This might be a hidden option in which case it is not officially supported by PTC so keep that in mind if it is critical to your environment.

intf3d_in_as_part yes

As of Creo 12.4 this is still a hidden option.

[GG_9918861]

Thanks.

Importing vendors .asm as .prt has some common disadvantages.  For instance, loss of surface colors, or loss of subcomponent relative placement.  

I would prefer to maintain the vendor's .asm if possible.  Aside from the common pitfalls (which are fixable with some hassle), it's nice to have the subcomponents.  

[tbraxton]

If you want to place an assembly model from a Creo library within IDF exchange then I am pretty sure that you can use the hint map file to do this. When done correctly it will take an assembly from the library and place it in the PCB assembly using the .emn file reference data. It has been a while since I have done this, but I am pretty sure it is possible. You just need to get the entry in the hint map file right and make sure the other ECAD constraints (origin etc.) are mapped in the models.

[tbraxton]

If you need the COTS represented as both an assembly and part within Creo then you can use the ECAD hint map file to use the part model upon IDF import rather than the .asm file.

[GG_9918861]

Thanks for this suggestion.  I will look into this.