Inventor Introduction CHAPTER · Inventor is a powerful computer-aided design and drafting (CADD)...

C H A P T E R

1

Introduction to Autodesk

Inventor

Learning ObjectivesAfter completing this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

Describe the primary Autodesk Inventor file types. ✓Explain the concept of parametric modeling. ✓Define the elements of a part model. ✓Perform basic file activities, such as creating, opening, saving, and ✓closing files.Describe the Autodesk Inventor user interface. ✓Control the multiple document interface. ✓Access application options. ✓Locate and use help resources. ✓

Autodesk Inventor, referred to as Inventor throughout this textbook, combines three-dimensional (3D) solid modeling with two-dimensional (2D) drawing capa-bilities. See Figure 1-1. Inventor is a powerful computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) system that allows you to start with very basic product design ideas and end with a virtual prototype and a complete set of working drawings.

Inventor can be adapted to use and conform to a variety of mechanical drafting standards. This textbook focuses on using Inventor according to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) design and drafting standards. Other common standards, such as the American Welding Society (AWS) standards, are also presented when appropriate.

Inventor Files

Inventor uses different files to prepare 3D part, assembly, and presentation models, as well as 2D drawings. Each file serves a specific design and documentation purpose. A basic design may require only a single part file or a part file and drawing file. Complex projects that include multiple items may require hundreds of part, assembly, presentation, and drawing files.

2 Inventor and Its Applications 2009

Part FilesPart files are used to create single parts and sheet metal parts. Figure 1-2 shows

an example of a part. You can create a part in a part file or build it in place while you are working in an assembly file. When created in place, each part is saved as a unique part file. Part files are referenced into assembly files as parts for assemblies and weldments, and into drawing files to create 2D part drawings. Part files have the file extension .ipt.

part: An item or product or an element of an assembly.

Figure 1-1.Inventor provides tools to create three-dimensional solid models and two-dimensional drawings.

.886 4X .541(=2.165)

5X 5.000 THRU 10.000 5.000

.005 A B C

.492

.984

C

.394

.886 .394

1.772 .394

2.657 .394

3.543

3.937

2X R.394

.984

B

8X R.394

8X R.197

1.969 8X Ø.394

.005 M A B

.005 M

NOTES:1. INTERPRET DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES PER ASME Y14.5M-1994.2. REMOVE ALL BURRS AND SHARP EDGES.

(.541)

.394A

OFDO NOT SCALE DRAWING

.XXX ± .005

62μIN.

THIRD ANGLE PROJECTION

FINISH:ANGULAR:

FINISH

APPROVED

MATERIAL

± .01± .1

UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

TOLERANCES:

.XX

.X

APPROVALS

DRAWN

CHECKED

TITLE

CAGE CODE

SCALE

SIZE DWG NO.

SHEET

DATE

REV

± 10'

DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES (IN.)

SAE 51410

ALL OVER

DPM

SLIDE BAR HINGE

DPM

MADSEN DESIGNS INC.

B1:1

09-00125 011

6/20/2008

ØØ

M MØ

ØØ

This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Chapter 1 Introduction to Autodesk Inventor 3

Assembly FilesAssembly files are used to create assemblies, subassemblies, and weldments.

Parts and subassemblies used to build an assembly are known as components. An example of an assembly is shown in Figure 1-3. You can develop an assembly in a separate assembly file or create it in place as a subassembly while you are working in an assembly file. When created in place, each assembly is saved as a unique assembly file. Assembly files are referenced into other assembly files as subassemblies, into presentation files for creation of exploded and animated assemblies, and into drawing files to create assembly drawings. Assembly files have the extension .iam.

Presentation FilesPresentation files are used to create exploded, animated, and stylized assembly

models that show how separate parts and subassemblies interact within the full assembly. See Figure 1-4. Presentation files have an .ipn extension and reference existing assembly files. They are also referenced into drawing files to create exploded assembly drawings.

weldment: An assembly in which parts are fixed together with welds.

components: The individual parts and subassemblies used to create an assembly.

Figure 1-2.An example of a C-clamp body created in a part file.

Figure 1-3.An example of a C-clamp developed in an assembly file.


Drawing FilesDrawing files are used to create 2D drawings. See Figure 1-5. Drawings reference

existing part, assembly, and presentation files. Drawing files can have the extension .idw or .dwg.

drawings: 2D representations of models containing views, dimensions, and annotations.

Figure 1-4.This presentation of a C-clamp contains trails, or connection graphics between components that show their relative positions in the assembly.

Trail

Trail

Figure 1-5.A drawing file should contain enough information to describe the part or assembly completely. This drawing is used to document the design of a C-clamp body.

19

9.5

9.5

M10x1.5 - 6H

14

19

50.8

14

101.6

1414

20.6525.45

2X R6.35

14

14

NOTES:1. INTERPRET DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES PER ASME Y14.5M-1994.2. REMOVE ALL BURRS AND SHARP EDGES.

DO NOT SCALE DRAWING

DATE

SIZE

TITLEAPPROVED

FINISH

CHECKED

DRAWN

APPROVALS

MATERIAL

ANGULAR:.XXX

FINISH:

THIRD ANGLE PROJECTION

UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

DWG NO.CAGE CODE

SCALE

± 10'± 0.005

3.2μm

± 0.05

DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS (mm)

± 0.5.X.XX

TOLERANCES:

SHEET OF

REV

ALL OVER

SAE 4140

6/20/2008DPM

A31

GOODHEART-WILLCOX

1

C-CLAMP BODY

009-980891:1


Exercise 1-1Access the Student Web site (www.g-wlearning.com/CAD/InventorApps2009), select Chapter 1 from the Chapter Materials drop-down list, and select and complete Exercise 1-1.

Parametric Solid Modeling

Inventor works on the concept of parametric solid modeling. Parameters can be adjusted to make changes to the model, but if the modifications conflict with other geometry, the model cannot be built without errors. The parametric concept is also referred to as intelligence because of the way model information is stored and managed in a database.

Parametric AssociationThe easiest way to understand the basic principle of parametric association is

to study the size of a parametrically created geometric shape. For example, the first circle shown in Figure 1-6 was drawn with a 1″ diameter. Adding a dimension to the circle that defines the circle diameter as 2″ changes the size of the circle according to the 2″ diameter dimension. When a new diameter of 3″ is applied to the circle, the size of the circle changes from two to three inches in diameter. This example shows how the size of the circle is associated with the circle dimension. The size of the circle changes only when the parametric value of the dimension is edited.

Parametric modeling allows you to control every aspect of a model and drawing during and after the design and documentation process. In the parametric modeling world of Inventor, you begin a design with a basic 2D shape and develop it into a complex 3D model. As you learn to use Inventor, you will recognize and work with the parametric relationships between model and drawing elements throughout the entire design process. Planning how to build a model and thinking about how it relates to future parts, assemblies, and drawings is an important step in beginning a design. Throughout this book, you will explore many examples of parametric relationships and learn how to work within the parametric Inventor environment.

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parametric solid modeling: A form of modeling in which parameters and constraints drive the model form and function to produce models that contain object volume and mass data that can be used to analyze internal and external object characteristics.

parameters: Characteristics that control the size, shape, and position of model geometry.

Figure 1-6.After creating the circle, you can control its size by assigning a dimension.

Drawn at1″ diameter

Added a 2″ diameterdimension

Changed the dimension to 3″


Understanding ConstraintsConstraints are added in the form of dimensions and geometric associations. The use

of well-defined constraints preserves specific design intentions, even as revisions are made. For example, if the center of a ∅10 mm hole in a square plate must be 12 mm away from a specific edge, a constraint in the form of a dimension identifying the 12 mm distance is added. If the edge is moved, the hole moves also, maintaining the 12 mm distance.

Constraints define model elements and protect your model and design ideas. An under-constrained model is shown in Figure 1-7. As you progress through the design process, you will often fully constrain the model to ensure that your design is accu-rate. However, an over-constrained model—one that contains too many constraints—generates a modeling failure and a warning. See Figure 1-8. Over-constrained and modeling failure situations must be resolved before you can create a model.

Part Model Elements

Part models are the primary solid models. They are used to form subassemblies, assemblies, and 2D part drawings. A part model begins as a sketch or group of sketches that are then used to construct a feature. Additional features are added to the initial feature to create a part model.

Sketches and Sketched FeaturesA sketch is typically the first item you create when developing a model. See

Figure 1-9. Sketches are used to create sketched features. Typically, every part model contains at least one sketch and at least one sketched feature. Most of the time, the

constraints: Parameters that control the size, location, and position of model elements, including sketches and features.

fully constrained model: A model that has no freedom of movement.

sketch: A 2D drawing that provides the profile or guide for developing a sketched feature.

sketched features: Features such as extrusions, revolutions, sweeps, lofts, and coils that are built from a sketch.

Figure 1-7.The hole can be moved horizontally because it is not fully constrained.

This hole is not fixed in the horizontal direction


base feature is produced as a sketched feature. Ribs, embossments, and some holes are also sketched features. See Figure 1-10.

Placed FeaturesPlaced features include shells, fillets, chamfers, threads, and face drafts. See

Figure 1-11. Generating placed features requires adding size dimensions and selecting a location, such as a point or edge.

base feature: The initial model feature, on which all others are based.

placed features: Features added to an existing feature without using a sketch.

Figure 1-8.This warning appears when you try to add a dimension that causes an over-constrained situation.

This dimensionis not needed

Figure 1-9. This simple sketch has two dimensions that control the object’s size.


Work FeaturesWork features are used for construction and reference purposes. They serve as a

basis for creating part geometry and features in areas where no other geometry is avail-able. Work features include work planes, work axes, and work points. See Figure 1-12. Work features may be placed anywhere on a feature or in 3D space. Like other features, work features are parametrically associated with a model.

work features: Reference or construction features that direct the location and arrangement of other features.

Figure 1-10. These sketched features are added to the base feature.

Embossment created from text on a sketch

Extruded sketched features

Rib

Base feature

Figure 1-11. Threads, fillets, and chamfers are a few of the placed features available in Inventor.

Threads

ChamferFillet


Figure 1-12. Work features are used to build and control other features. Work

point

Workplane

Workaxis

Figure 1-13. An example of a catalog feature. This feature contains three holes and a round.

Catalog feature

Catalog FeaturesCatalog features are similar to placed features, because you can place a catalog

feature onto an existing feature. However, catalog features are often far more complex than a standard shell, fillet, chamfer, or face draft. See Figure 1-13. Catalog features include design elements such as iFeatures and derived components.

Feature PatternsOnce you create a feature, such as a hole, you may copy it into an arrangement

called a feature pattern. Inventor feature patterns include rectangular patterns, circular patterns, and mirrored features. Examples of feature patterns are shown in Figure 1-14.

iFeature: An existing feature or set of features you create and then save and store in a catalog to be used in other models.

derived components: Features that can contain a complete model consisting of several features, or even multiple parts; often used as a base feature.

feature pattern: An arrangement of copied existing features, generating occurrences of the features.



Getting Started

When Inventor is first installed, Windows creates an Inventor icon, which is displayed on the Windows desktop and in the list of programs available from the Start menu. One of the quickest methods to start Inventor is to double-click on the Inventor desktop icon. Another option is to pick the Start button in the lower-left corner of the Windows desktop, move the cursor to Programs and hold it there or pick, and then select Autodesk, Autodesk Inventor 2009, and finally Autodesk Inventor

Professional 2009.The Open dialog box appears by default when you start Inventor. See Figure 1-15.

The Open dialog box is used to locate and open existing files. Options are also avail-able for accessing the New File dialog box and for activating and managing projects.

Beginning a New FilePick the New File button in the Quick Start area of the Open dialog box to begin a

new file using the New File dialog box. See Figure 1-16. This dialog box is the primary tool used to access templates for creating new Inventor parts, assemblies, presenta-tions, and drawings. The New File dialog box can also be accessed by selecting the New… option on the File pull-down menu, typing [Ctrl]+[N], or picking the New button on the Inventor Standard toolbar.

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icon: A small graphic representing an application, file, or tool.

templates: Files with predefined settings that are used to begin new documents.

Figure 1-14. Use patterns to create multiple copies of a feature or group of features.

Rectangular Pattern Circular Pattern Mirrored Feature


Figure 1-15. The default display shown when you first launch Inventor includes the Open dialog box.

New and Open options are availablefrom the File pull-down menu

Pick to access the New Filedialog box

This button becomesavailable after certainfiles are selected

Pick to begin a new file

Pick to accessthe Opendialog box

Figure 1-16. Templates for creating new files are located in tabs along the top of the New File dialog box.

Contains templates based on choosing English or metric during program installation

Contains templates based on U.S. Customary units

Contains templates based on metric units

Sheet metalpart

Standard assembly

Standarddrawing

Standard drawing

Standard presentation

Standard part

Weldment (welded

assembly)


The New button on the Inventor Standard toolbar, shown in Figure 1-15, is a fl yout that contains Assembly, Drawing, Part, and Presentation options. These selections are used to quickly access a new standard part, assembly, drawing, or presentation template fi le. The templates located in the New fl yout button are those found in the Templates folder and listed in the Default tab of the New Filedialog box.

By default, the New File dialog box contains Default, English, and Metric tabs. On each tabbed page are Inventor template files, represented by unique icons. You can specify the Default tab as English or Metric when you install the program, based on the units you typically use. The English and Metric tabs hold templates with specific units for each Inventor file type, including ANSI in the English tab, and ANSI, BSI, DIN, GB, ISO, and JIS in the Metric tab.

Sheet metal and weldment templates are also available in the New File dialog box. These templates are not actually separate file types, as indicated by the .ipt and .iam file extensions. They are template files that are preset for specific model applications. A sheet metal template automatically provides the tools used to create a sheet metal part. A weldment template offers the welding tools necessary to create a weldment.

To begin a new file, double-click on the template icon. You can also pick the icon and then pick the OK button in the lower-right portion of the New File dialog box to start a new file.

The tabs and template fi les displayed in the New File dialog box are fully customizable. To specify the tabs and templates shown in the New File dialog box, use projects or create new tabs in the default template folder. Projects and templates are introduced in Chapter 2.


Opening an Existing FileUse the Open dialog box, shown in Figure 1-15, to access existing Inventor files

and to import non-native CADD files into Inventor. Access the Open dialog box from the New File dialog box by picking the Open button in the Quick Start area. The Opendialog box can also be accessed by selecting the Open… option from the File pull-down menu, typing [Ctrl]+[O]; or picking the Open button on the Inventor Standard toolbar.

NOTEWhen AutoCAD is configured to display a screen menu, the commands appear in a separate screen.


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You can open existing fi les directly from Microsoft Windows Explorer, or you may be able to fi nd fi les using the quick document access area located near the bottom of the File pull-down menu. This area lists the path and fi le name of several previously used docu-ments. The fi les are listed in the order they were opened, and each path is associated with a number. Number 1 is the most recently opened fi le.

When you access the Open dialog box, the folder assigned to the active project is displayed, allowing you to quickly access files associated with the active project. However, you can navigate to any file on your computer or the network. Files do not have to be in the active project to be opened. The Open dialog box functions much like similar dialog boxes found in other Windows applications.

Use the Files of type drop-down list to specify the type of files to display in the Open dialog box. Then use the Look in drop-down list, the Go To Last Folder Visited, Up One Level, Create New Folder, and View Menu buttons along the top of the dialog box, and the Preview area as needed to locate the desired file. Once you select a file, the Options... button may become available. Picking this button opens the File Open Options dialog box. The choices available in this dialog box vary depending on the selected file type. To open a file, double-click on the file icon, or pick the icon and then pick the Open button in the lower-right portion of the New File dialog box.

If you forget where an Inventor fi le has been placed, you can use the Windows search tool to fi nd it, but Inventor also has a method of fi nding fi les that may be quicker. The Inventor search tool is conve-niently located in the Open dialog box. Pick the Find... button to open the Find: Inventor Files dialog box.

Double-clicking on an Inventor fi le in Microsoft Windows Explorer causes Inventor to start, if it is not already running, and opens the selected fi le.


Saving Your WorkA model or drawing you want to keep must be saved. Typically, the first step

in creating a model or drawing is to save the file in an appropriate location using a descriptive name or code. Then, as you work, save the file frequently; at least every five to ten minutes, in case of a sudden loss of power or a computer problem that may cause the loss of your file.


PROFESSIONAL TIP


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Using the Save ToolA quick way to save your work is to pick the Save button on the Inventor Standard

toolbar. You can also select the Save option from the File pull-down menu or type [Ctrl]+[S]. The Save tool resaves the file if it has already been saved, or opens the Save As dialog box if the file has not previously been saved. See Figure 1-17. The Save As dialog box functions much like similar dialog boxes found in other Windows applications.

The file type listed in the Files of type drop-down list should be set to the current file type. Use the Look in drop-down list or the buttons along the top of the dialog box as needed to locate the file. Pick the Options... button to open the File Save Options dialog box, which controls the method of generating a preview image for the file. This image is displayed in the Preview area of the File Open dialog box. Pick the Save button to complete the save.

Using the Save As ToolThe Save As tool, which displays the Save As dialog box, is available by picking

the Save As… option from the File pull-down menu. When you use the Save As tool, the original file closes, and the newly saved file with the specified name appears. For example, if you are working on a part named LARGE PLATE and want to use the file as a basis for a small plate design, use the Save As tool to save a copy of the part titled SMALL PLATE. The LARGE PLATE file closes and the SMALL PLATE file appears, ready for modification. You will use the Save As tool throughout the exercises and problems in this textbook to save an existing file using a different name.

Using the Save Copy As ToolThe Save Copy As tool is available by picking the Save Copy As… option from

the File pull-down menu. Selecting this tool displays the Save Copy As dialog box, which is similar to the Save As... dialog box. When you use the Save Copy As tool, the original file does not close. The copy is saved to the specified location and does not open. Use the Save Copy As tool when you want to continue working on the original file, but make a copy as a design state backup or for use at a later time.

The Save Copy As tool is also used to save an Inventor file as a non-native or alter-native format, such as IGES, JPEG, or STEP. These file formats may be necessary when

Figure 1-17. The Save As dialog box appears if the current file has not been saved.

The list of file types is restrictedto match the current type

Type the new file name in this box


you are collaborating with others or when you need to create an image from what is shown on-screen. Savable file formats are available from the Save as type drop-down list in the Save Copy As dialog box.

Closing a FileOne of the quickest methods of closing a file, without ending the Inventor session,

is to pick the Close button on the right side of the file window title bar. Other options include double-clicking on the file icon on the file window title bar, and selecting the Close option from the File pull-down menu.

Many design projects require that multiple fi les be open. To save changes to all open fi les, use the Save All tool. To close all open fi les, use the Close All tool. Both tools are available from the File pull-down menu.

Exiting InventorTo exit Inventor, pick the Close button located in the upper-right corner of the

Inventor window, double-click the Inventor window title bar, select Exit from the File pull-down menu, or pick the Inventor icon located in the upper-left corner of the Inventor window and select Close. When you close a file or exit Inventor, several alert boxes may appear, depending on the situation. For example, if you have not saved your work, you are asked if you want to save the file before closing.


The Inventor Interface

Interface, or user interface, items include devices such as the keyboard and mouse to input data, and the monitor to receive information. The Inventor graphical user interface (GUI), shown in Figure 1-18, includes both standard Microsoft Windows functions and specialized Inventor items. The specialized interface tools and options are used for preparing models and drawings and are described when appropriate throughout this textbook.

The Inventor interface constantly changes as you develop a part, assembly, presen-tation, or drawing. Only the tools and options that apply to the current work environ-ment and design or drafting task are available. For example, the part file interface is displayed in Part mode and contains the tools and options required to create parts. Interface items such as the panel bar and pull-down menu options automatically change as you progress through each design phase and work with different file types.


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interface (user interface): The tools and techniques used to provide information to and receive information from a computer application.

graphical user interface (GUI): On-screen interface items.


This textbook focuses on the default Inventor interface. Only default interface items are shown throughout this textbook, except in specifi c situations that require additional information.

Interface TerminologyFigure 1-19 provides a list and description of interface terms used throughout

this textbook. Become familiar with these terms and reference Figure 1-19 as you learn Inventor.

Controlling Windows and Interface ItemsThe Inventor program and graphics windows are similar to other windows within

the Windows operating system. To minimize, maximize, or close the Inventor window or individual graphics windows, pick the small control icon in the upper-left corner, which displays a standard window control menu, or pick the appropriate icon in the upper-right corner. Window sizing operations are the same as those for any other window.

Several Inventor interface items, including the Inventor and graphics windows, can float or be docked. Different options and functions are available, depending on the particular interface item and whether the item is floating or docked. Some items,


floating: Describes interface items, displayed within a border, that can be freely resized or moved.

docked: Describes interface items that are locked into position on an edge of the Inventor window (top, bottom, left, or right).

Figure 1-18. Elements of the Inventor interface.

Panel bar Shortcut and hot keys Toolbar buttons Dialog box

Browser bar Shortcut menu Communication center button


Figure 1-19. Common interface terms and descriptions.

Alias A keyboard key or key combination used to define and access a command or tool.

Button A button on the screen or mouse.

Command An instruction issued to the computer.

Cursor The primary means of pointing to and selecting objects within the Inventor window.

Default A value maintained by the computer until you change it.

[Enter] (↵) The [Enter] key on the keyboard.

Function key One of the keys labeled [F1]–[F12] along the top of the keyboard.

Glyph A graphic representation, typically initiating an action, symbol, or function. For example, a perpendicular glyph represents a perpendicular geometric situation.

Graphics window The largest area in the Inventor window, where modeling and drawing occur.

Hover Use the mouse to move the cursor over an item and hold the cursor at the location to display additional information or options.

Icon An image identifying or depicting the function of an interface item.

Key A key on the keyboard.

Option An aspect of a command or tool that can be selected.

Pick or click Use the left mouse button to select an item on the screen.

Tool A command used to perform a specific task. For example, the Line tool is used to draw lines.

Term Description

such as the graphics window, have a title bar at the top or side. The close and minimize or maximize options are often available, and most items can be resized. Some floating items, such as toolbars and panels, include grab bars.

The graphics windows can be adjusted and positioned only within the Inventor window.

Using Shortcut MenusShortcut menus, also known as pop-up, cursor, and right-click menus, are used exten-

sively in Inventor. See Figure 1-20. The option at the top of a shortcut menu allows you to quickly access the previously selected tool or option. Some menu options have a small arrow to the right of the option name. When you pick one of these options, a cascading menu appears. See Figure 1-21.

grab bars: Two thin bars at the top or left edge of a docked or floating item; used to move the item.NOTEWhen AutoCAD is

configured to display a screen menu, the commands appear in a separate screen.

shortcut menus: Menus that allow access to tools and options by right-clicking anywhere in the graphics window or on an object or selection.

cascading menu: A secondary menu that contains options related to the chosen menu item.


You can access the tools and options available from shortcut menus using many of the other interface techniques. However, because shortcut menus are context sensitive and positioned near the cursor, you can improve the speed with which you perform tasks and access options that may otherwise be difficult to find. A shortcut menu often provides the quickest method for accessing a tool or option. Therefore, shortcut menu access is presented first in this textbook for tools and options that are best accessed from a shortcut menu.

Using Pull-Down MenusThe pull-down menu bar, shown in Figure 1-22, houses the pull-down menus that

are available for the particular work environment. Pick a pull-down menu to reveal the options for that menu. Then move the cursor down and up to highlight and select the desired menu option. Like shortcut menus, some pull-down menu options display an arrow to the right of the menu selection, indicating that a cascading menu of related options is available. To close the currently selected menu without opening another menu, press the [Esc] key, pick outside of the menu list, or pick on the menu bar. If you

context-sensitive shortcut menu: Menu in which only items associated with the current work environment and application are displayed.

pull-down menus: A text-based menu input system in which options appear when you pick the menu name.

Figure 1-21. Cascading menus are available from shortcut menus and from pull-down menu options that have a flyout arrow.

Arrow indicatesthat cascading menu

is available

Cascading menu

Figure 1-20. The shortcut menu that appears depends on the item under the cursor when you right-click.

Cursor is on the graphics window

Cursor is on a sketch in the browser

Cursor is on a featurein the browser


want to change to a different menu, move the cursor over the specified menu name or pick the menu name.

A tool or option accessible from a pull-down menu is presented as a graphic in the margin of this textbook, like the example shown in the margin. The graphic in this example represents the process of picking the File pull-down menu, then hovering over and selecting the Save option to activate the Save tool.

You can also access menus and menu options using menu accel-erator keys. One method involves holding down the [Alt] key while pressing the key that corresponds to the underlined character in the menu. Another option involves the use of control keys, which are shown to the right of the option name and allow you to access certain tools by pressing and holding the [Ctrl] key while pressing a second key. Once a menu appears, you can also use the up, down, right, and left arrow keys to move to different items in the menus. Press [Enter] to select a highlighted item. Despite the name, using accelerator keys is usually a more diffi cult means of selecting tools from the menu system.

The Inventor Standard ToolbarToolbars display tool buttons arranged into groups of similar tools that are sepa-

rated by thin lines. Many toolbars are available that apply to specific tasks, but by default, only the Inventor Standard toolbar is shown. See Figure 1-23. Toolbars have features similar to pull-down menus.

Some toolbar buttons have an arrow to the right of the button, known as a flyout. See Figure 1-24. These buttons work the same as other toolbar buttons. To use the flyout, select the arrow next to the button. This opens the other options associated with the button. In most cases, when you pick a flyout option, the selected button becomes active and is displayed on the toolbar on the top level of the flyout, hiding the rest of the buttons.

Menu BrowserFile

> Save


tool buttons: Buttons in a toolbar, each with a specific icon, that activate a tool or option.

flyout: A button that presents additional, related tool buttons, much like a cascading menu.

Figure 1-22. The View pull-down menu is an example of the many pull-down menus available in Inventor.

Pick the menu nameto display options


This textbook focuses on the default interface display, which includes only the Inventor Standard toolbar. A tool or option accessible from the Inventor Standard toolbar is presented as a graphic in the margin of this textbook, like the example shown in the margin. The graphic in this example represents the process of picking the Save button to activate the Save tool.

Supplemental MaterialAdditional ToolbarsAdditional Inventor toolbars are available and can be displayed in the Inventor window. These toolbars are usually application- or task-specific. For more information on displaying and using toolbars, go to the Student Web site (www.g-wlearning.com/CAD/InventorApps2009) and select Chapter 1 in the Chapter Materials drop-down list. In the Supplemental Material section, select Additional Toolbars.

ToolbarInventorStandard

> Save

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Figure 1-24. Pick the flyout arrow next to some buttons to see additional tool buttons.

Flyout for theNew button

Figure 1-23. These detail images of the Inventor Standard toolbar show the types of features that may be found on all toolbars.

New File button Separator bar

Material color list boxPick to close the toolbar


Using the Panel BarThe panel bar, shown in Figure 1-25, provides a list of design tools available for

creating sketches, models, and drawings, depending on the specific work environ-ment. Only the tools and options used for creating parts are available in the panel bar while you are working on a part. The specific tools displayed in the panel bar change as you move from one design stage to another. For example, only sketch tools are avail-able while you are working on a part in sketch mode. When you finish the sketch, the Part Features panel bar appears. In addition, only tools that can be used in the current design stage are available for selection; all others are shaded.

Click on the current panel bar title, such as 2D Sketch Panel, or right-click on or beside any of the panel bar tools to display a shortcut menu of options. Select a panel bar mode from the shortcut menu to change manually from one list of options to another. By default, the panel bar displays each tool with both an icon and the name of the tool, as shown in Figure 1-25A. This helps you to recognize tools when you first begin to work with Inventor. Deselect the Display Text with Icons option from the shortcut menu to display only tool buttons. This is helpful if you want a smaller panel bar display, allowing for a larger graphics window. See Figure 1-25B.

The panel bar can be moved and resized, and it can be docked or fl oat in the graphics window.

A tool or option accessible from the panel bar is presented as a graphic in the margin of this textbook, like the example shown in the margin. The graphic in this example represents the process of picking the Extrude button from the Part Features panel bar to activate the Extrude tool.

Keyboard ShortcutsAn alternative method to access some Inventor tools and options is to type a

keyboard character or combination of characters. For example, press the [Ctrl] and [S] keys, a combination identified in this textbook as [Ctrl]+[S], to activate the Save tool.

panel bar: A panel-like window that appears by default on the left side of the Inventor graphics window. Panel bars are the primary location for accessing design tools.


PanelPart Features

Extrude

Figure 1-25. A—The panel bar displayed with names to aid in identifying tools. B—The panel bar with the Display Text with Icons option deselected to conserve screen space.

A B


However, accessing tools from a shortcut or pull-down menu, toolbar, or the panel bar can offer advantages over typing at the keyboard. One benefit is that you do not need to memorize tool aliases and combinations. As an Inventor user, you decide which tool selection technique works best for you. A combination of tool selection methods often proves most effective.

Even though you may choose not to access tools by typing keyboard shortcuts, you must still enter certain values at the keyboard. For example, you may have to enter the diameter of a circle using the keyboard.

A tool or option that is accessible by typing is presented as a graphic in the margin of this textbook, like the example shown in the margin. The graphic in this example represents the process of pressing the E key on the keyboard to activate the Extrude tool.

Pressing the [Esc] key is a fast and easy way to exit a tool. The [Delete]

key is a quick way to remove an item, and may be the only way to delete certain selections or settings from a dialog box. Press the [Enter]

key or space bar to access the previously selected tool.

Supplemental MaterialCharacter Keys and Key CombinationsMany individual character key and key combination shortcuts are available for accessing Inventor tools and options. For a list of keyboard shortcuts, go to the Student Web site (www.g-wlearning.com/CAD/InventorApps2009) and select Chapter 1 in the Chapter Materials drop-down list. In the Supplemental Material section, select Character Keys and Key Combinations.

Using the Browser BarThe browser bar, or browser, provides a historical reference of model design and

drafting. See Figure 1-26. The number and type of items available in the browser varies depending on the current model type, work environment, and design stage. For example, a browser shown when a part file is open typically displays the name of the file and an icon on top, followed by the Origin folder and all of the origin options, followed by individual sketches and features. End of Part displays last, unless it has been moved. An item in the browser is active when all other items are shown with a gray background.

Items in the browser are listed in the order they were created or inserted, although it is possible in some cases to drag and drop browser items up or down in the list.


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browser bar (browser): A panel that displays all the items in the current model or drawing.



Many of the items displayed in the browser are arranged in a tree structure, which contains parent nodes and child nodes. A sketched feature is an example of a parent node. The sketch from which the feature was created is the associated child node. The Origin folder is another example of a parent node. To display child nodes, pick the Expand button (+ symbol) to the left of the object name or right-click on the object name and select Expand All Children. To hide child nodes, pick the Collapse button (– symbol) to the left of the object name or right-click on the object name and select Collapse All Children.

The browser can be moved and resized, and it can be docked or fl oat in the graphics window.

Using the Status BarThe status bar is located along the bottom of the Inventor window. See Figure 1-27.

The status bar is divided into panes that display and control a variety of drawing aids and tools. The left side of the status bar provides information about a tool option by displaying a help string. For example, if you highlight New... in the File pull-down menu, the help string in the status bar is Create a new document. When you access the Line tool to sketch a line, the help string is Select start of line, drag off endpoint for tangent arc.

parent node: An item in the tree structure, similar to a folder, that is associated with subordinate child nodes.

child node: Subordinate nodes that create, are associated with, or are consumed by a parent node item.


help string: A short text description of what happens if you select a tool or option over which the cursor is hovering; or, if a tool is selected, a prompt indicating the appropriate action.

Figure 1-26. The browser bar contains information regarding the objects in a model or drawing. The browser in this figure is associated with a part file that contains two sketched features and a placed feature.

The Origin folder containsplanes, axes, and a center

point to position andorient geometry

Parent node

Child node

Pick to collapse the branch

Pick to expand the branch

Figure 1-27. The status bar displayed when a part file is open.

Sketch resources

Number ofoccurrences

Displaysmemory

usage

Number ofopen documents

Pick to access theCommunication

Center

Help string


The items on the right side of the status bar include a coordinate display field or sketch constraint information, number of occurrences in the document, number of open documents, memory usage, and a link to the Communication Center. Status bar items appropriate to basic Inventor functions are described when applicable throughout this textbook.

Using Dialog BoxesPick any menu selection or button displaying an ellipsis (…) to activate a dialog

box. See Figure 1-28. The cursor is used to set variables and select items in a dialog box. In addition, many dialog boxes include images, previews, or other methods to help you select appropriate options. When you pick a button in a dialog box that is followed by an ellipsis, another dialog box appears. You must make a selection from the second dialog box before you can return to the original dialog box. A button with an arrow icon requires you to make a selection in the drawing area.

dialog box: A window-like part of the user interface that contains various kinds of information and settings.

Figure 1-28. Pick a menu option or tool button that includes an ellipsis (…) to display a dialog box.

Ellipsis indicates a dialogbox is available

Drop-down list

This dialog box appears when

Print... is picked

Command button

Check box

Radio button

Edit box

Command button

Tabs

Preview box


Supplemental MaterialFeatures of Dialog BoxesDialog boxes contain many of the same features found in other inter-face items, including icons, text, buttons, and flyouts. For more informa-tion about these features, go to the Student Web site (www.g-wlearning.

com/CAD/InventorApps2009) and select Chapter 1 in the Chapter Materials drop-down list. In the Supplemental Material section, select Features of Dialog Boxes.

Identifying TooltipsMany buttons found in toolbars, the panel bar, and dialog boxes provide tooltips

to help you understand and recognize the button. Figure 1-29 shows the tooltip for the Open button on the Inventor Standard toolbar. The tooltip tells you that the button you see activates the Open tool.


Supplemental MaterialUsing the Customize Dialog BoxThe Customize dialog box is a basic tool for customizing the Inventor interface. It can be used to define settings for the work environment, tool-bars, and tools. For more information on using the Customize dialog box, go to the Student Web site (www.g-wlearning.com/CAD/InventorApps2009) and select Chapter 1 in the Chapter Materials drop-down list. In the Supplemental Material section, select Using the Customize Dialog Box.

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tooltip: A small text box that displays when you hover over a button, giving information about the function of the button.

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Figure 1-29. Place the cursor over a button to reveal the button name as a tooltip.

Tooltip for theOpen button


Managing Multiple Documents

You can use individual file Window Control pull-down menus and the Windows pull-down menu to manage the multiple document interface. The Window Control pull-down menu for an Inventor file is accessed by picking the Inventor file icon. If the file window is maximized, the Window Control pull-down menu is located to the left of the pull-down menu bar. If the file window is restored or minimized, the Window Control pull-down menu is located in the graphics window to the left of the file menu bar. The menu options available when you select a file icon func-tion much like program window control menu options. However, when you restore, move, size, minimize, maximize, or close a file window, the operation affects only the file window, not the entire program. The Next option allows you to toggle among multiple open files.

The Window pull-down menu, shown in Figure 1-30, contains options for control-ling the multiple document interface. Pick the New Window option to create a new window for the active file. Additional windows enable you to have several design views open and accessible at once. The Cascade option arranges all windows in a cascading fashion. See Figure 1-31A. The Arrange All option arranges all windows in a way that shows each window in its entirety. See Figure 1-31B.

The names of all currently open documents are displayed at the bottom of the Window pull-down menu. Refer again to Figure 1-30. The file name with a check mark next to it is currently the active window. To make a different window active, pick its file name.


multiple document interface: An interface that allows you to have several documents or document views open at the same time. Also called multiple design interface.

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Figure 1-30. Use the Window pull-down menu to create a new window, position the current windows, and view the list of open files. A check appears next to the active file.

This window was created when the New Window option was selectedwhile Frame.ipt was active

Currently opendocumentsCurrently

activedocument


Figure 1-31. Positioning windows in Inventor using the Cascade option (A), and the Arrange All option (B).

A

B

Controlling Application Options

Application options are located in the Application Options dialog box. See Figure 1-32. To display this dialog box, select Application Options… from the Tools pull-down menu. Application options are general program settings and preferences and are not specific to any particular file. However, many application options do help configure specific work environments, as well as design and drafting tasks. For example, options in the Sketch tab of the Application Options dialog box control functions specific to preparing sketches.

Menu BrowserTools

> Application Options…


Application options control an extensive number of Inventor functions. For example, the User name text box on the General tab, shown in Figure 1-32, is used to redefine your username, which is used in multiple applications to indicate who has worked on a file. Another example in the General tab is the Start-up action check box. When selected, this check box allows you to choose to display the Open dialog box, display the New File dialog box, or immediately begin a new file using a selected template when you launch Inventor.

As you learn Inventor, you will become familiar with many application options, and you may need to adjust the settings to fit your needs. You should explore the Application Options dialog box and learn to recognize the purpose and usefulness of each option. This textbook focuses on the default application options. Specific options are covered only if they require adjustment in order to improve productivity, accom-plish certain tasks, accommodate design and drafting standards, or require expla-nation for basic Inventor applications. These options are described when applicable throughout this textbook.


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Figure 1-32. The General tab of the Application Options dialog box. This dialog box controls many general, file, and environment-specific program settings.

Pick a tab toaccess specificapplicationoptions

Pick to applyoptions beforeclosing


Figure 1-33. The Autodesk Inventor Help dialog box contains several tools to help you understand various areas of Inventor.

Type keywords todisplay matchinghelp topics

Search forspecificwordsand phrases

Define anddisplay helptopics asfavorites

Access helpinformationorganized ina book-likeformat withexpandable“chapters”

Getting Help

Inventor includes an extensive help file system that provides learning resources and can be used to receive answers to questions. You can select from a variety of help tools in the Help pull-down menu, including links that open the Autodesk Inventor Help dialog box, Inventor and Vault tutorials, the New Features Workshop, and other learning tools.

The Help button, next to the Help pull-down menu, opens the Autodesk Inventor Help dialog box. See Figure 1-33. The help file system is similar to other Windows-based help files. It allows you to further explore areas of Inventor and receive answers to any questions you may encounter. You can also access the Autodesk Inventor Help dialog box by selecting Help Topics from the Help pull-down menu, pressing the [F1] key; or picking the Help button on numerous dialog boxes, the panel bar, or the browser. Picking a Help button in a dialog box opens the Autodesk Inventor Help dialog box with information specific to the content of the dialog box.


Chapter TestAnswer the following questions. Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper or go to the Student Web site (www.g-wlearning.com/CAD/InventorApps2009), select the correct chapter from the Chapter Materials drop-down list, and complete the electronic chapter test.

1. Define parts in the context of the Inventor software. 2. Describe the basic use of part files and specify the part file extension. 3. What is an assembly? 4. What name is given to an assembly in which parts are fixed together with welds? 5. What are components? 6. Identify the basic use of assembly files and specify the assembly file extension. 7. Explain the relationship between assemblies and subassemblies. 8. What name is given to the connection graphics between components that show

how each component fits into an assembly? 9. What are tweaks? 10. Describe the basic use of presentation files and specify the presentation file

extension. 11. What is the purpose of a drawing in Inventor? 12. Describe the basic use of drawing files and provide two possible file extensions

for these files. 13. What is parametric solid modeling? 14. In the context of solid modeling, what is a parameter? 15. Why is the parametric concept referred to as intelligence? 16. What is the purpose of a database in Inventor? 17. What are constraints? 18. Describe the basic function of a sketch. 19. Define the term placed feature and identify at least three examples of objects that

can be placed features. 20. Describe the basic function of work features. 21. What is a feature pattern? 22. What dialog box appears by default when you start Inventor? 23. What are templates, and what are they used to create? 24. Define interface and identify at least two items that are included in a typical

computer interface. 25. What is the Inventor graphical user interface (GUI), and what does it include? 26. What does it mean when an interface item is floating? 27. Describe the appearance of a docked interface item. 28. What is the purpose of a multiple document interface? 29. Which dialog box in Inventor allows you to control general program settings and

preferences that are not specific to a particular model or file, and how can you access this dialog box?

30. How can you access the extensive Inventor help file system and learning resources?

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ProblemsLaunch Inventor and complete the activities described in each problem. When you are finished, continue working with Inventor or exit if necessary.

1. Perform the following tasks:A. Begin a new Inventor file of your choice.B. Explore the Inventor pull-down menu system by picking any of the menu

titles and moving the cursor down and up through the menu options.C. Pick the File pull-down menu and highlight the New... option. Notice the help

string displayed in the status bar.D. Pick the Open... option on the File pull-down menu to display the Open

dialog box.E. Pick the Cancel button to close the Open dialog box.F. Explore cascading submenus by highlighting the Toolbar option on the View

pull-down menu.G. Press the [Esc] key or pick outside of the menu to close the View pull-

down menu. 2. Perform the following tasks:

A. Begin a new Inventor part file and explore the default part interface.B. Close the part file without saving.C. Begin a new Inventor assembly file and explore the default assembly interface.D. Close the assembly file without saving.E. Begin a new Inventor drawing file and explore the default drawing interface.F. Close the drawing file without saving.G. Begin a new Inventor presentation file and explore the default presenta-

tion interface.H. Close the presentation file without saving.

3. Perform the following tasks:A. Open blade_main.ipt from the following folder: Autodesk/Inventor 2009/Samples/

Models/Assemblies/Scissors/ Components Locate and explore the panel bar.B. Pick the panel bar title, Part Features, and deselect the Display Text with Icons

option. Observe the changes in the panel bar. Pick the panel bar title again and select Display Text with Icons to show the text once again.

C. Locate and explore the default browser.D. Drag the End of Part indicator up and above Sketch4 and notice the changes.E. Pick the Expand [+] button to the left of the Origin folder to expand all children.F. Right-click on the Origin folder and select Collapse All Children.G. Close blade_main.ipt without saving.

4. Perform the following tasks:A. Begin a new Inventor part file.B. Locate and explore the Inventor Standard toolbar.C. Select Toolbars > Inventor Precise Input to open the Inventor Precise Input

toolbar, and dock the toolbar by double-clicking its name.D. Place the cursor over several toolbar buttons and observe the tooltip and help

strings provided.E. Pick one of the flyout buttons located in the Inventor Standard toolbar, select one

of the flyout options to initiate a tool, and modify the flyout button displayed.

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5. Write a brief description of the Inventor interface. Include answers to the following questions: What is an interface? What are the primary Inventor interface items, and how do they function? Reflect on the concept of a computer software inter-face. Are some of the Inventor interface items similar to those in other programs you have used? Submit a hard copy of your description to your drafting instructor or supervisor.

6. Write a short description of each of the four Inventor file types. Include informa-tion about file extensions and the circumstances in which each file type should be used. Reflect on the capabilities of Inventor. How is Inventor similar and different from other CADD programs you may have used? Submit a hard copy of your description to your drafting instructor or supervisor.

7. Write a brief report on each part model element and the importance of constraints and parametric associations in parametric solid modeling. Reflect on your under-standing of parametric modeling, and describe your experience with working in parametric situations. Submit a hard copy of your report to your drafting instructor or supervisor.

8. Create a new part file and draw a freehand sketch of the standard Inventor screen display. Label each of the screen areas and the interface items described in this chapter.

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Inventor Introduction CHAPTER · Inventor is a powerful computer-aided design and drafting (CADD)...

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