With the release of PTC Creo 3.0, PTC Creo Parametric users now have access to an expanded library of standard parts and fasteners as well as an intuitive user interface to speed up the process of adding hardware to your assembly design. Jim Barrett Smith, Product Manager at PTC, gives an overview of the new capabilities:
To define the position of a fastener, select the datum point, axis, or a hole. You can select two aligning surfaces to define a fastener connection with a thread. Or, you can select two opposing surfaces to define a fastener and nut connection.
Next, select a fastener from the comprehensive library of fasteners. Choose the size of the thread or measure the thread size using an existing hole.
Selecting a fastener from the standard parts library
You have the option to set the length of the fastener yourself, or to have it set automatically. You can also control the hole tolerance and choose whether to have a counterbore on the top, the bottom, or both.
Setting the length of the fastener
There is a 2D preview in the dialog which updates with as you define the fastener details. Furthermore, you can click Preview to see a 3D view of the fastener in the graphics area.
You can get a 3D view of the fastener by selecting Preview
When you are satisfied, click OK to assemble the fastener.
After a fastener is assembled, you have the ability to reassemble or redefine it. Furthermore, if you reassemble an existing fastener onto a pattern, you will have the option to pattern the fastener. This saves significant time and effort. If needed, you can choose to delete all patterned fasteners by simply selecting one and clicking Delete.
Check out our video tutorial on the PTC University Learning Exchange (“PTC Creo Intelligent Fastener (Lite)”) to learn more.
Stay tuned to our “Did You Know” blog series as we cover all of the exciting, new enhancements in PTC Creo 3.0.
For more in-depth product feature explanations, visit our Tech Tips area.
Have some ideas about what PTC Creo product features you’d like to learn more about? Send me a message or leave a comment below and we’ll write up the best ideas from the community. Thanks for reading, looking forward to all of your feedback!
In case you missed it, check out our recent Did You Know posts covering PTC Creo 3.0 enhancements:
Flexible Pattern Tool in the PTC Creo Flexible Modeling Extension
