Relating ECAD Components to a Skeleton Model

[TS_9603242]

Hello,

I am looking to ensure a connector is related correctly to another subassembly. I would like to relate this connector to a skeleton model, but am having trouble doing so. This connector was originally brought in through ECAD/MCAD collaborator with an IDX export from my ECAD tool. If I delete all the instances from the ECAD import and manually place these related to the skeleton model I am unable to push their locations back to ECAD. I am using version 10.0.4.0.

Thanks in advance for your help,

Tanner

[tbraxton]

Have you tried moving the components to the locations needed rather than deleting them? Use the skeleton to get the references needed into the PCB model (datums) and move the connectors using the datums in the PCB model.

[TS_9603242]

These parts are put into the model under an "Assemble relative to board" constraint so I am unable to relate them to the skeleton like would in a normal assembly.

Thanks,

Tanner

[tbraxton]

I am suggesting using the skeleton to add references in the board model for the desired locations and then move the components in the ECAD assembly to the desired locations using the PCB origin and constraints recognized by the IDX interface so there is no direct dependency to the skeleton.

[TS_9603242]

I have hundreds of parts to move, I was hoping to use patterns if possible. Is there a way to relate them all using a pattern?

Thanks,

Tanner

[tbraxton]

Probably. I am not an expert on the IDX interface (never used it) but have extensive experience with the IDF interface. I am assuming that the IDX protocol supports the designation of ownership of components (mechanical or electrical) if so, designate the connectors as owned by MCAD and place them such that the IDX protocol will recognize them when exported from Creo. In the IDF scheme this requires that the part is placed on one side (top/bottom) of the PCB and the Z axis for the ecad component csys is normal to the placement side of the PCB. You can generate a pattern of csys in the PCB part model that you can then use to place one connector and then reference pattern to the csys pattern. If you do this in the PCB part model, then I think it should work assuming your placement constraints comply with IDX requirements.

Keep in mind there are config options and possible start part templates that could come into play here, without knowing your ECAD/MCAD exchange standards I am guessing but if you have a SOP for data exchange make sure to comply with those requirements.

[anursingh]

Hi @TS_9603242,

I wanted to see if you got the help you needed.

If so, please mark the appropriate reply as the Accepted Solution. It will help other members who may have the same question.
Of course, if you have more to share on your issue, please pursue the conversation. 

Thanks,
Anurag