Dave,
I did not write the list. I had received it a few years ago from another
Pro-E user as indicated by the author and company name, so that is why I
mentioned my actual practices differ somewhat from the list. If someone has
a updated list of best practices, please send it.
You are correct about the stress analysis. I do not have Pro/Mechanica, so I
do not typically worry about stress analysis with Pro-E parts. However, my
license of SolidWorks does include simulation (static FEA), so I create a
separate configuration (Pro-E family table equivalent) with the rounds /
fillets, draft, and chamfer features suppressed. I leave the round
unsuppressed if it is critical to the analysis (ex: intersection of
cantilever beam attached to wall). Use of symmetry (cutting part in half) is
also recommended for FEA.
If it is a thin part, I use shell mesh by creating a mid-surface and
removing the solid body (automatically done with sheet metal parts). This is
really outside the original scope of the discussion, but it is important to
consider with modeling for both manufacturing and FEA.
Concerning the "6) use HOLES when making holes... ", I have done it using
both methods. If I anticipate the hole may become a slot, I model the
feature as a cut as per your suggestion. If I know that only the hole size
will change, I prefer to use holes especially if the hole have receive a
c'sink or a c'bore. The same of threaded holes. I am guessing this is what
the author had in mind as well.
Anyway, If anyone has a improved list, or better a CAD neutral list (Pro-E,
SolidWorks, etc.) of best modeling practices, feel free to share it. These
practices may also differ somewhat between the person modeling for CAD / CAM
in a machine shop versus the design engineer at a company that does not
manufacture in-house.
Chris
