Issue link: https://resources.rand3d.com/i/1175402
Assembly Operations © 2019, ASCENT - Center for Technical Knowledge® 1–3 1.2 Terms and Definitions Skeleton A skeleton is a CATIA part model that is used to aid the construction of a complex assembly model. The part is used as a storage location for any critical design information, such as industrial design surfaces (e.g., A-side or masterline surfaces), and location and sizing information. The skeleton information is shared with the other components in the assembly to drive the design. The skeleton model is always the first component in an assembly and should only contain wireframe and surface geometry so that assembly mass properties are not affected. Contextual Design Contextual design involves the creation of part-level geometry in the context of an assembly. By visualizing all of the components of an assembly while building a part, it is possible to share critical design information between components and ensure that components do not interfere with each other. The contextual design approach is driven by the creation of external references between assembly components. These links add an extra level of complexity to the assembly and must be maintained throughout the design process to obtain maximum benefits. Building an assembly contextually requires good communication in the design team and a clear reference structure in the assembly. Bottom-Up Design In a traditional bottom-up design approach, part geometry is created independent of the assembly or any other component. Any design criteria established before the part is modeled are not shared between models. Once all of the part models are completed, they are brought together for the first time in the assembly. At this point in the design, problems often result with the assembly because engineering information is not correctly shared or communicated. Problems can include interference between components, misalignment between components, or incomplete design. In addition, any modifications to components must be manually propagated throughout the assembly. Sample provided by ASCENT for review only All copying and reuse strictly forbidden.