How do I create this type of constraint

[w3Leon]

Hello All,
I received a STEP file from a person that wants it cut on my laser cutter. When I opened the file in my Alibre Design v26 it is full constrained with small "line/arrow" constraints (see attached file). With luck, I will be making more parts with this type of interlocking fingers and I would like to use this same constraint on those future designs. Does anyone have any good clear instructions on how to create this type of constraint, please?
Thank,
Walt

 

[HaroldL]

Articles

help.alibre.com

Articles

help.alibre.com

 

[w3Leon]

Articles

help.alibre.com

Articles

help.alibre.com

Thanks Harold. That link has some very good information and I've bookmarked it into my notes folder. However, I don't see that "line/arrow" symbol and I don't know what it means or how to apply it to a design that I create in Alibre. Can you offer and additional advice?
Thanks Walt

 

[DavidJ]

It means that project to sketch was used with 'maintain association' checked. That doesn't quite make sense if the file truly was a STEP file ( also you image doesn't show any imported STEP file....).

Some information appears to be missing.

 

[w3Leon]

It means that project to sketch was used with 'maintain association' checked. That doesn't quite make sense if the file truly was a STEP file ( also you image doesn't show any imported STEP file....).

Some information appears to be missing.

Hi David,

Thanks for the advice about “Maintain Association” and I did not select that for this next experiment. I think I found a method that might work for future design needs. (see screen capture) FYI...the STEP file model is Suppressed. What I did was: 1-Create a sketch, 2- Project the face of the STEP model into the sketch, 3-Use Ctrl-A to capture everything, 4-Then select the LOCK icon (Fixed Constraint), 5-I removed the Locked constraint from the sides that will be manipulated for future jigs, 6-Save the file as a template. It appears this method will prevent the finger joint interfaces from being affected and they will be consistent over time.

 

[DavidJ]

STEP file should still show in explorer even if suppressed. You still appear to be omitting something. We can be more helpful if you provide full details.

 

[HaroldL]

Some information appears to be missing.

I noticed that after I posted the links.
I submitted a comment from the Help page to have an image added to illustrate the 'Maintain Association' constraint symbol.

 

[DavidJ]

Information missing from the first post..... We don't have the full story of what Walt is doing.