Holes in a part

[CC_9824097]

So, I've just got a couple of questions which can probably be answered quite quickly.

The first is, in my parts ive used the extrude tool to cut out a hole in my part rather than use the 'hole' feature. Does this mean im going to have some trouble when im trying to add nuts/thread to the holes ect. If so ill just have to go back and change the circle sketch extrudes to holes.

My second question following on from this would be is there a simple way to just place a hole using the hole feature exactly where ive created an extrude hole, as some of my holes arent perpendicular to their surfaces so im unsure how i use the hole feature for problems like this.

Any help is appreciated, thank you       

[StephenW · Accepted solution]

Using the hole feature is typically easier but there are a LOT of instances where using extruded cuts is easier or better based on your design or needs.

You can add cosmetic threads to your extruded hole, it'll just be another feature in the model tree.

You may want to add an axis point to your sketch to get an axis (or you may already have an option set to automatically add the axis)

I don't know of a good way to easily add holes to a non-perpendicular surface except by creating an axis (and maybe other datums based on your specific geometry) prior to creating the hole...there may be other issues, not sure since I don't do it much at all. It's probably a good example of a reason to use extrude instead. 

[CC_9824097]

Hi Stephen thanks for clearing that up!

[StephenW]

There are some Creo users and/or Admins who DEMAND the hole feature be used for all "holes".  There are benefits like threading and counterbores/countersinks that can be added without additional features.

I prefer to use the hole feature (due to simplicity of use and options) but I thoroughly dislike when strict rules are made that limit the tools I can use to get the job done in the "best" way!

[tbraxton]

Q1:

An extruded cut in lieu of a hole feature is not necessarily going to cause issues with adding fastener hardware. If your design intent is to use "standard" holes then using the hole feature supports the appropriate dimensions for clearance, class of fit etc. and will generate a note for the hole that can be shown in a drawing. The standard hole features will save a a lot of repeated effort, you should consider this in the context of your workflow.

Q2:

You can place a hole using axis and placement surface.  Assuming you want the hole normal to the placement surface do the following.

Create a point to locate the center of the hole

Create a datum axis through the point and normal to the placement surface

Create a datum plane through the point and normal to the axis (this is only needed if the placement surface is not planar)

This should give you the datum references needed to place a hole feature. If you want to change the orientation of the hole, change the axis constraints to alter the angle the hole cuts the part.

[CC_9824097]

Okay, so I've created two holes coincident which have axis A4 and A8 as shown below. I want to add a flat end screw which will stop at the bottom, with the bottom of the screw being flush with the bottom of the hole A8, however when I go to 'Tools' > 'Screw' and add the constraints, it places a screw which goes past my hole A8 until it reaches the other side of my surface. How do I constraint it so the screw stops when it reaches the bottom of the hole?

I'm guessing Its me that's selecting the wrong things in the 'screw' placement settings