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ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 External Tool Data
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Knitted Surfaces
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Common Machining
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Operation Manager
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Advanced NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
Get Part
Start with an imported CAD model or create your own model in ESPRIT. Solid models and surfaces created in popular CAD
systems can be imported and modified to make them easier to machine. ESPRIT also provides tools to help you create your own
solid models, surfaces, and geometry.
ESPRIT can machine any combination of part model geometry created directly in ESPRIT or in other CAD systems. Many
techniques are available to easily take you from design to manufacture.
 ESPRIT Files
Create and machine any combination of part model geometry - solid models, surfaces, wireframe geometry, and NURBS
curves.
 CAD Files
Part models are often provided as solid models from popular CAD systems. Easily import solid models in a variety of CAD
file formats as well as 2D drawings, 3D wireframe geometry, surfaces, and STL models.
 Work Planes
A work plane is a local coordinate system at a specified location and orientation. Work planes allow the creation of
elements on planes other than the global XYZ plane.
 Editing objects
Any number of elements can be selected, grouped, moved, copied, and deleted in ESPRIT.
 Geometry
A variety of geometric objects can be drawn in ESPRIT: simple geometry like lines and circles, multi-sided shapes like
rectangles and polygons, and freeform curves. ESPRIT also has functions to modify geometry.
 Curves (NURB Curves)
Curves are geometric elements that pass through a set of points. In ESPRIT, curves are created as non-uniform rational B-
splines (NURBS). NURBS are a mathematical model of 2D and 3D geometry that represent arbitrary shapes while
maintaining mathematical exactness. Curves can also be extracted from existing surfaces and solid models.
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 Solid Modeler
Solid models are digital representations of 3D parts. In addition to describing a 3-dimensional shape, solid models have
volume and mass. They are used as the basis for automatic feature recognition and for stock models used in machining and
simulation.
 Surfaces
Surfaces can be created in ESPRIT from geometry, features, NURB curves, surface curves, and surface edges. Surfaces as
well as solid models can be used to create freeform machining operations.
 Surface Curves
Surfaces curves are created on existing surfaces to either modify the surface or to create new surfaces. When a surface
curve is created, it belongs to the selected surface.
 Backplot
Backplot generates geometry, chain features, or both from NC code.

 Form Tool Program
ESPRIT's form tool program greatly simplifies the otherwise difficult task of creating true form tools. You simply apply
the form tool program to geometry for the top view profile. ESPRIT creates chain features of the XY and UV contours.
You can then apply ESPRIT's 4-Axis Contour operation to these features.
ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
ESPRIT Files
Create and machine any combination of part model geometry - solid models, surfaces, wireframe geometry, and NURBS curves.
When a new file is created in ESPRIT and saved, it is given a file extension of *.esp. This is the native file format for ESPRIT
documents.
 Opening and Saving Files

 ESPRIT Template Files
If you repeat the same work over and over, consider using template files. You can create templates containing regularly
used tools, machine setup configurations, simulation settings, repeated geometry, and so on.
 Auto Save
To prevent the problem of losing work when a power outage or other unexpected condition causes ESPRIT to close
unexpectedly, the Auto Save function will automatically save your ESPRIT files at user-defined intervals.
Parent topic: Get Part
ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
Opening and Saving Files

Use the following commands on the Standard toolbar (located at the upper left of the screen) to open files and save your work:
Parent topic: ESPRIT Files

Related information
Opening CAD files from other systems
ESPRIT Template Files
New
Creates a new ESPRIT file. If you have a file open, it automatically closes the current file. You are prompted to save any changes
before the file is closed. Typically, the Templates dialog displays when a new file is created. To create a blank file, select the
Blank Document template. If you always want to open a blank document when the New command is selected, place a check next
to "Do not show this dialog to me again". Selecting the Blank Document template has the same effect as clicking the Cancel
button in the Template dialog.
Open
Opens or imports a previously stored file. Select the Files of Type pulldown for a list of file conversions available in ESPRIT or
to select files with a specific extension. If the extension of your file is not listed, select "All Files (*.*)". If you select Merge, the
selected file is opened on top of the current file, combining the information from both files. You cannot currently merge ESPRIT
(.esp) or ESPRIT/X (.src) files.
Save
Saves or exports the current file. Select the Save As Type pulldown for a list of file conversions available in ESPRIT.
Supported File Types

The following are the file types currently supported. Later versions may increase this list.
Open:
 ESPRIT Files (*.esp)

 ESPRIT/X Files (*.src)
 ESPRIT/W Files (*.esw)
 ESPRIT template Files (*.est)
 Tool Geometry Files (*.ect)
 DXF Files (*.dxf)
 DWG Files (*.dwg)
 Parasolid Files (*.x_t, *.x_b)
 Solid Edge Files (*.par, *.psm, *.asm)
 SolidWorks Files (*.sldprt, *.sldasm)
 CATIA V4 Files (*.model, *.exp, *.dlv, *.dlv3, *.session)
 CATIA V5 Files (*.catpart, *.catproduct)
 CATIA V6 Files (*.3DXML)
 Pro/E Files (.prt.*, .prt, .asm.*, .asm, .neu.*, .neu)
 UG Files (*.prt)
 IGES Files (*.igs)
 VDA Files (*.vda)
 STEP Files (*.stp, *.step)
 STL Files (*.stl)
 ACIS Files (*.sat)
 Inventor Files (*.ipt, *.iam)
 3DM Files (*.3dm)
 JT Files (*.jt)
 CGR Files (*.cgr)
 Kompas Files (*.a3d, *.m3d)
Save As:
 ESPRIT Files (*.esp)

 ESPRIT template Files (*.est)
 Tool Geometry Files (*.ect)
 DXF Files (*.dxf)
 DWG Files (*.dwg)
 Parasolid Files (*.x_b)
 Parasolid Files (*.x_t)
 BMP Files (*.bmp)
 IGES Files (*.igs)
 STEP (AP203) Files (*.step)
 STL Files (*.stl)
 ACIS Files (*.sat)
 3DM Files (*.3dm)
ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
ESPRIT Template Files

If you repeat the same work over and over, consider using template files. You can create templates containing regularly used
tools, machine setup configurations, simulation settings, repeated geometry, and so on.
Template Files (Method 1)

Create the template file.
1. In a new file, create only that work you find yourself repeating (for example: regularly used tools, Machine Setup page
settings, repeated geometry, simulation setup).
2. From the File menu, select Save As.
3. From the Save As Type pulldown, select "ESPRIT Template File (*.est)" and save the template file in the
directory .../ESPRIT/data/templates.
4. Enter a file name and select OK.
Open the Template File.
1. From the File menu, select New.

2. In the template dialog, select the stored template file, then select OK.
3. If the Template dialog does not display, select Options from the Tools menu. On the Input page, make sure "Show
Template Dialog" is checked.
4. If you didn't store the template file in the ../ESPRIT/data/templates directory, you can "Browse" for it.
Template Files (Method 2)

Save the Template File.
1. From the File menu, select Save As.

2. From the Save As Type pulldown, select "ESPRIT Template File (*.est)" and save the file in any directory.
Open the Template File.
1. From the File menu, select Open.

2. From the Files of Type pulldown, select "ESPRIT Template File (*.est)".
3. Select the Template file (.est) and select OK.
ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
Auto Save
To prevent the problem of losing work when a power outage or other unexpected condition causes ESPRIT to close
unexpectedly, the Auto Save function will automatically save your ESPRIT files at user-defined intervals.
The backup files created through the Auto Save function have the following extension: .esp_bak plus the version number. For
example: ESPRIT1.esp_bak1, ESPRIT1.esp_bak2, and so on.
You can save ESPRIT backup files automatically to the same "ESPRIT Files" folder selected in ESPRIT Options or you can
choose another folder. Auto Save Options let you limit the total number of backup files that are kept by defining the total number
of versions and the total number of days from the last time a backup file was created. The interval between backup files is
controlled by either the number of commands that have been clicked or the number of minutes that have passed since the last
backup.
Automatically save ESPRIT files

To automatically save backup versions of your ESPRIT files:
1. On the File menu, click Auto Save.

2. In the dialog, check "Enable Auto Save".
3. Optionally, change the parameters that control the file folder where backups are saved, how many versions to save, and
how often the ESPRIT file is saved.
4. Click OK.
Restore an ESPRIT file from a backup file
To open a backup version of an ESPRIT file:
1. On the Standard toolbar, click Open .

2. Set "Files of Type" to All Files (*.*).
3. Navigate to the folder where the backup file is stored and select the file.
4. Click Open.
To save the backup file as a standard ESPRIT file:
1. On the File menu, click Save As.

2. Make sure "Save As Type" is set to ESPRIT Files (*.esp).
3. If necessary, select a new folder location for the file.
4. Click Save.
Auto Save Options

Use the following parameters to enable the Auto Save function and customize the storage location for backup files, the number of
versions to save, and how often backup files are created.
Settings
Enable Auto Save
This setting enables or disables the Auto Save Function. When checked, backup versions of ESPRIT documents are saved
automatically according to the user-defined backup options. When unchecked, the user is responsible for saving ESPRIT
documents.
Save Backup on File Load
Check this option to save the document as soon as a file is opened in ESPRIT.
Save Backup to Document File Folder
Check this option to automatically save backup files to the same folder where the current ESPRIT document is located.
Backup Folder:
Type or browse for the folder location where backup versions of your ESPRIT documents will be saved. This option is disabled
when "Save Backup to Document File Folder" is checked.
Number of Versions to Save
Enter the maximum number of backup versions to keep when a file is saved automatically. When this number is reached, the
earliest version is deleted automatically.
Backup by Number of Commands
Select this option to automatically save a version of the current document based on the number of commands that you define.
Selecting this option automatically disables the Backup by Elapsed Time option.
Backup by Elapsed Time (minutes)
Select this option to automatically save a version of the current document based on the amount of time in minutes that you define.
Selecting this option automatically disables the Backup by Number of Commands option.
Before Save Delete all Backup Files Older Than (days)
Check this option to automatically delete backup files based on their age in number of days. Before another backup version of the
document is saved, ESPRIT will delete any versions that are older than the number of days you specify.
ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
CAD Files
Part models are often provided as solid models from popular CAD systems. Easily import solid models in a variety of CAD file
formats as well as 2D drawings, 3D wireframe geometry, surfaces, and STL models.
Data exchange functionality will read data from most native CAD formats, including Autodesk, Catia, SolidWorks, Solid Edge,
ACIS, Pro/ENGINEER and Unigraphics..
 Opening CAD files from other systems

When you open a CAD file, you can set the import options by clicking the 'Options' button on the Open dialog. Specific
import options are provided for each type of CAD file.
 Orient Part
When a solid model is imported into ESPRIT, it is rarely in the correct orientation for machining. The commands on the
Orient Part menu or toolbar provide an easy way to move a solid model or geometry into the position it will be mounted on
the machine.
 Move Origin
Move Origin moves the origin of the global axis to a selected point.
 CAD Feature Manager
The CAD Feature Manager is an advanced selection tool used to view the feature design tree from CAD systems that have
installed the ESPRIT FX™ add-in.
 Check Reference File Status
Check the status of files that have been imported from a CAD system to see if the file has been updated or if the original
file is missing. You also have the option to replace one imported CAD file with another.
 ESPRIT FX™
ESPRIT FX™ is a separate addition to ESPRIT that allows the exchange of design data between ESPRIT and other CAD
systems.
 Associativity
Associativity can be defined as the recognition of a part and its subsequent downstream activities. When the original CAD
model changes, ESPRIT can recognize those changes and update the downstream activities that are associated to the
original part, such as CAM features and tool path.
 Import Point Data
Use point data saved in a standard text file to create geometry points in ESPRIT and, optionally, a PTOP feature.
ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
Opening CAD files from other systems

When you open a CAD file, you can set the import options by clicking the 'Options' button on the Open dialog. Specific import
options are provided for each type of CAD file.
CAD files can be opened in a new file or merged with an existing ESPRIT file. To merge the CAD model into an ESPRIT file,
select the 'Merge' option in the dialog. When files are merged, the information from both files is combined.
Note: ESPRIT (.esp) or ESPRIT/X (.src) files cannot be merged together.
 AutoCAD files (*.dxf, *.dwg)

 Parasolid files (*.x_t, *x_b)
 SolidEdge files (*.par, *.psm, *.asm)
 SolidWorks (*.sldprt, *.sldasm)
 CATIA V4, V5, V6 files (.catpart, catproduct, .model, .exp, .dlv, .div3, .session, .3DXML)
 Pro/E files (.prt.*, .prt, asm.*, .asm, .neu.*, .neu)
 UG files (*.prt)
 IGES files (*.igs)
 STEP files (*.stp, *.step)
 STL files (*.stl)
 ACIS files (*.sat)
 Inventor files (*.ipt, *.iam)
 3DM files (*.3dm)
Parent topic: CAD Files
AutoCAD files (*.dxf, *.dwg)

ESPRIT supports Autodesk DWG and DXF file formats for both importing and exporting up to the latest version of AutoCAD.
Options let you scale the drawing automatically and set the file unit to either Inch or Metric.
Parasolid files (*.x_t, *x_b)

Parasolid is a solid modeling kernel used in many CAD and CAM systems to create and edit the mathematical definition of
engineering parts and assemblies. ESPRIT supports parasolid text files (*.x_t) and parasolid binary files (*.x_b).
The following import options are common to most of the CAD file formats that can be imported into ESPRIT. Files can be
imported as a solid or surfaces, with or without wireframe geometry.
Parasolid Import Options
 Trim Tolerance: Enter the tolerance to use for trimmed entities.

 Import as Solid: When checked, any solid model data included in the model file is imported. When this option is checked,
the Surfaces option is automatically unchecked.
 Create Wireframe: When checked, the imported model is smashed automatically to extract wireframe geometry. This
option does not import geometry created in the CAD file.
 Surfaces: When checked, any surface data included in the model file is imported. When this option is checked, the Import
as Solid option is automatically unchecked.
 Load Hidden Objects: By default, this option is checked to import blank (invisible) entities in the file as well as visible
entities. When unchecked, invisible entities are not imported.
 Import Label: When checked, any textual information associated with entities is imported.
Export Options
 Version: This option applies only when an ESPRIT file is exported to a Parasolid file format. You can choose which
version of Parasolid to use for the export.
SolidEdge files (*.par, *.psm, *.asm)

ESPRIT supports the import of SolidEdge files, but not the export.

 Import ESPRIT FX: By default, this option is checked to import any ESPRIT FX data available in the model. When
unchecked, FX data is not imported with the model.
SolidWorks (*.sldprt, *.sldasm)

ESPRIT supports the import of SolidWorks files, but not the export.

 Extract Parasolid Stream Only: By default, this option is checked. When checked, ESPRIT will import and display the
SolidWorks feature tree in the CAD Feature Manager. The user can then inspect, select, and edit items in the tree. When
unchecked, the user cannot inspect or edit the tree.
Note: SolidWorks allows the user to create configurations that define multiple variations of a part or assembly. A configuration
can be created manually or from a design table. When the configuration is created manually, the solid model is actually generated
at runtime (when the user is creating/activating it). However, when using a design table, SolidWorks allows the user to generate
multiple configurations without creating the solid model.
ESPRIT is only capable of loading a configuration if it has been activated at least once. If you try to open an inactive
configuration, ESPRIT will return an “Empty File” error message.
If you want to open an inactive configuration in ESPRIT, you need to activate it in SolidWorks first. Open the file in SolidWorks,
then select and double-click the configuration in the Configuration Manager and save the file).
CATIA V4, V5, V6 files (.catpart, catproduct, .model, .exp, .dlv, .div3, .session,
.3DXML)
CATIA V4 and CATIA V5 R7+ and CATIA V5 assembly files are supported.
Note: CATIA V5 R0–R6 files are not supported.
The following options are specific to CATIA files in addition to the options listed for SolidEdge files.
 Sew Tolerance: Enter the tolerance for the Sew option.

 Single Face Solid loaded as Surface: When checked, ESPRIT analyzes the number of faces for each solid in the file. Any
solid that has a single face is assumed to be a surface and imported as a surface instead of a solid.
 Import Geometry: When checked, any geometry created in the CAD model file is imported.
 Sew: When checked, surfaces contained in the file will be converted into a solid model or a sheet solid body. When a
closed body is imported, the orientation of the faces is set automatically by the material side. When a sheet body is
imported, all faces of the same body have the same orientation.
 Healing: This option is used to heal Parasolid models. It primarily affects the number of PK body check issues, removes
self-intersections, degeneracies, and overlapping tolerances.
 Merge Coincident Faces: When checked, surfaces and curves are merged where it is feasible to do so. For instance, it can
typically merge two half cylinders into one cylinder.
Pro/E files (.prt.*, .prt, asm.*, .asm, .neu.*, .neu)

See the description for CATIA.
UG files (*.prt)
See the description for CATIA.
IGES files (*.igs)

The "Initial Graphics Exchange Specification" (IGES) defines a neutral data format that allows the digital exchange of
information among computer-aided design (CAD) systems.

 Auto Scale: By default, this option is checked. When the unit of measure used in the imported model is different from the
system unit in ESPRIT, the imported model will be scaled automatically to the current system unit. When unchecked, the
model is imported without scaling.
 Log File Mode: When checked, a log file is generated during the import process.
 Smart Drawing: When checked, drawing elements (type 404 entities) will be imported if they exist in the file.
 Drawings Mode: When checked, only drawing elements (type 404) will be imported.
 Clip Mode: By default, this option is checked to avoid importing clipped entities. When unchecked, ESPRIT respects the
clipping mode in the IGES file.
STEP files (*.stp, *.step)

The "Standard for the Exchange of Product model data" (STEP) defines a neutral file format that can be used to exchange data
between CAD, CAM, Computer-aided engineering, Product Data Management/EDM and other CAx systems.

STL files (*.stl)

STL is a file format native to stereolithography CAD software. STL files describe only the surface geometry of a three
dimensional object with triangulated surfaces.
Import Options
 Auto Scale: When checked, the imported model will be scaled automatically to the file unit. When unchecked, the model is
imported to the current system unit without scaling.
 File Unit: When Auto Scale is checked, specify whether the unit of measure is metric or inch
Export Options
When a file is exported as an STL, only one solid model is exported. If your file contains multiple solids that you want to export
as one solid, you must group the solids before export.
 Tolerance: Enter a tolerance value to control the precision of the exported model.
 File Type: The STL format specifies both ASCII and binary representations. Binary files are more common, since they are
more compact.
 Element to Save: Choose what types of elements to export: Solid, Surface, STL Model, or a composite of surfaces.
 Sew: When checked, ESPRIT will use the specified Gap Tolerance to try to export a closed group of surfaces as a solid.
ACIS files (*.sat)

ACIS is a popular 3D modeling engine that integrates wireframe, surface, and solid modeling functionality.

 Export Version: This option applies only when an ESPRIT file is exported to an ACIS file format. You can choose which
version of ACIS to use for the export.
Inventor files (*.ipt, *.iam)

3DM files (*.3dm)

The 3DM file extension is an open source 3D model format that allows CAD, CAM, CAE, and computer graphics software to
accurately save and exchange 3D geometry using both NURBS and polygon mesh representations. 3DM is used as the native file
format for Rhinoceros.

 Healing: By default, this option is enabled to repair faulty data in the CAD file.
JT files (*.jt)
CGR files (*.cgr)

Kompas files (*.a3d, *.m3d)

ESPRIT Help
 Get Part
 ESPRIT Files
 CAD Files
 Work planes
 Editing objects
 Geometry
 Curves
 Solid Modeler
 Surfaces
 Surface curves
 Set Up
 Workspace
 Machine Setup
 Milling Tools
 Turning Tools
 Tool Manager
 Simplify
 Features
 Feature Manager
 Program
 Turning
 Milling
 Rotary milling
 3-axis milling
 5-axis milling
 Wire EDM
 Verify
 Analysis
 Dimensioning
 Simulation
 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
Orient Part
When a solid model is imported into ESPRIT, it is rarely in the correct orientation for machining. The commands on the Orient
Part menu or toolbar provide an easy way to move a solid model or geometry into the position it will be mounted on the machine.
Planar and cylindrical solid faces and planar wireframe geometry can be selected for alignment with the X, Y, or Z axis.
Four types of alignment are possible:

Related tasks
Align a single planar face with the global X, Y, or Z axis
Align two parallel planar faces with the global X, Y, or Z axis
Align a cylindrical face with the global X, Y, or Z axis
Align planar wireframe geometry with the global X, Y, or Z axis
About part orientation

The following commands are available on the Orient Part toolbar. To display the toolbar, click Orient Part on the Edit menu.
The commands on the toolbar let you align planar or cylindrical faces on a solid model or planar wireframe geometry with the
global X axis, Y axis, or Z axis.
Note: When a solid face or geometry is aligned with an axis, all visible and non-visible elements in the work area are moved as
well. This includes tool path, features, and other solid models. Draft features for EDM operations use an XY and UV profile, so
only the Z axis should be used for alignment when this type of feature exists in the document.
Planar faces are aligned perpendicular to the alignment axis. By default, the solid is aligned so that the positive direction of the
alignment axis is pointing outside the solid body. In the example below, the top face is aligned with the Z axis.
However, holding down the Shift key will reverse the direction of the alignment. In the example below, pressing the Shift key
aligned the side face with the Y axis so that the Y axis is pointing inside the solid body.
When two parallel planar faces are aligned with an axis, the part is moved so that the two faces are perpendicular to the alignment
axis.
In this example, the middle of the front and back faces are aligned with the X axis. The Shift key was used orient the positive
direction of the axis inside the solid body. The selection order affects the orientation. The orientation is taken from the first face
selected.
Cylindrical faces are aligned so that the cylinder axis is co-linear with the alignment axis. In the example below, the cylindrical
face is aligned with the X axis.
When wireframe geometry is used for the alignment, the selected geometry must define a plane, such as a circle, arc, ellipse, or
two line segments.
Circles, arcs, and ellipses are centered at P0. When two intersecting segments are selected, the intersection point is located at P0.
When two non-intersecting segments are selected, an endpoint of the second segment is located at P0.
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Move Origin
Move Origin moves the origin of the global axis to a selected point.
The ability to move the origin point is useful when an imported CAD model is not in an ideal location for machining. Instead of
moving the model, the origin can be moved instead.
Moves the origin of the XYZ coordinate system to a selected point. P0 is the label of point 0, which is the origin. To see its label,
open the Masks dialog (Ctrl+M) and place a check by Element Numbers on the Basic page.
1. On the Edit menu, select Move Origin Point.

2. Select a point (as shown).
Note: In addition to selecting a point, you can also use SNAP or INT modes to select a position on a segment or arc or the
intersection of elements.
The XYZ coordinate system moves to that point.
This is useful when you import a CAD drawing and want to change the origin.

Related information
Orient Part
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CAD Feature Manager

The CAD Feature Manager is an advanced selection tool used to view the feature design tree from CAD systems that have
installed the ESPRIT FX™ add-in.
It also contains some machining information from the CAD file that can be used later in ESPRIT.
 Using the CAD Feature Exchange Add-in in ESPRIT

 Creating reference geometry in ESPRIT
 Machining properties from the CAD file
 Creating Hole features from CAD faces
Using the CAD Feature Exchange Add-in in ESPRIT

When a CAD file is saved using the ESPRIT FX add-in, you will be able to open and view the CAD Features design tree in
ESPRIT. A new tab will display in the Project Manager for the CAD Feature Tree.
CAD features, sketches, reference geometry, and planes are imported.
Selecting faces of a solid body using the CAD Feature Tree
The CAD Feature Tree in ESPRIT has the same behavior as the feature design tree in the CAD system. When selecting a CAD
Feature in the CAD Feature Tree, the face that belongs to the selected CAD Feature will be grouped and highlighted in the work
area. When a face is selected in the work area, the CAD Feature that belongs to this face is highlighted in the CAD Feature tree.
Note: The selection of features in the CAD Feature Tree is easier if you give a specific name to each CAD Feature you may be
machining in ESPRIT. Therefore, the name of the CAD Feature will be displayed when faces are selected and the name could
also be used by the ESPRIT KnowledgeBase.
Creating reference geometry in ESPRIT

When a CAD file is opened in ESPRIT, you will notice that reference geometry, sketches, and feature profiles used in the CAD
system are available in the CAD feature tree. You can recreate all the reference geometry in ESPRIT.
Reference geometry is available for:
 UG
 Pro/E
 CATIA
 SolidWorks (with the latest SolidWorks FX Add-in)
 Inventor (with the latest Inventor FX Add-in)
To create geometry in ESPRIT from data in the CAD model:
1. Right-click on a sketch or profile in the CAD feature tree.

2. Choose Create Geometry.
3. The new geometry is highlighted in the graphic area.
Note: It is useful to use a Wireframe view to see the geometry more clearly.
To create the geometry that was used to construct the CAD geometry, such as an axis line or mirror line:
1. Right-click on a sketch.
2. Choose Create Construction Geometry.
To create all of the sketch, profile, and construction geometry:
1. Right-click anywhere on the CAD feature tree and choose Create All Geometry.
2. Click on some of the resulting geometry elements in the graphic area to show that the originating sketch is highlighted in
the CAD feature tree.
To create work planes in ESPRIT:
 Right-click on a sketch or profile and choose Activate Plane. If the plane does not exist in the ESPRIT document, you will
be prompted to create one.
 Right-click on a sketch or profile and choose Create Plane.
 Right-click anywhere on the CAD feature tree and choose Create All Planes.
Machining properties from the CAD file

The CAD Feature Tree in ESPRIT contains more than topological information between the CAD Feature and the solid. It also
retains the necessary information that ESPRIT can use for machining purposes. Every CAD Feature in ESPRIT has a CAD
Feature Property available in the property Browser (to display, use the View > Properties menu or press Alt+Enter).
In the following example, selecting the CAD Feature M10x1.5 Bottoming Tapped Hole1 displays the following properties in the
property browser:
All CAD Features have properties, although some may have more details and some less. They all have a common set of
properties plus some specific properties based on the CAD Feature Type. For example, a hole feature will contain a lot of
machining properties while a simple extrusion does not require anything more than common ones.
Common Properties
 Name
 Name of the CAD Feature.
 Type
 Type of the CAD Feature with the Feature Manager Design Tree (using the CAD system designation).
 Color
 Color of the CAD Feature. This value could be different from the face color since the face color overrides the feature
color.
 Description
 Description of the CAD Feature (as defined in the CAD system). By default this value is set to the name of the
Feature. However, you could use the description to set information that can be read in ESPRIT.
Hole Properties
 Hole Type
 An internal designation for the type of the Hole. However, hole types all derive from one of the following types
Counterbore Countersink Hole
Tap Pipe tap Legacy Hole
 Standard
 Standard type of the hole such as DIN, ANSI, HASCO Metric, etc.
 Cosmetic Thread
 For tapped holes with cosmetic threads, the hole diameter is the diameter of the tap drill. For tapped holes without
cosmetic threads, the hole diameter is the basic major diameter of the thread: the cylinder is at nominal thread
diameter. Since this value will modify the topology of the hole within the body, it is important to know how the user
created the thread hole in order to get the correct thread diameter to use in the process in ESPRIT.
 Fastener Size
 Size of the fastener.
 Fastener Type
 Type of the fastener.
 Head Clearance
 Value of the head clearance
 Thread Class
 Thread Class of the thread hole.
Limitation with hole patterns
When a hole CAD feature has been duplicated using a pattern (mirror, linear, or rotation), the machining properties are
propagated to the parent CAD feature through the pattern. However, if a hole pattern contains two CAD features that each have
machining properties, the ESPRIT's Property Browser will not be able to separate those properties. Therefore, a single group of
common properties will created from the two CAD features.
The following example illustrates what happens when one CAD feature is mirrored and then patterned.
The example below illustrates what happens when two CAD features are mirrored and then patterned.
Creating Hole features from CAD faces

Hole Feature Recognition reads the plane orientation directly from the selected face. When a hole feature is created in the CAD
system, the user must choose the direction of the hole. See the example below from a SolidWorks file:
ESPRIT will extract the direction of the hole axis and then either create a new plane or use an existing plane that lies in the
opposite direction in order to drill the hole correctly.
When a hole feature is created from a face that belongs to a CAD Feature, ESPRIT’s Hole Feature Recognition will
automatically add the CAD Feature properties to the created feature. However, Hole Feature Recognition will attach the common
properties of the selection to the created features. Therefore, if the selection has no common properties, the CAD Feature
Properties won’t be relevant for machining purposes (for example, if the selection contains a Counterbore and a Countersink).

Parent topic: Project Manager
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Check Reference File Status

Check the status of files that have been imported from a CAD system to see if the file has been updated or if the original file is
missing. You also have the option to replace one imported CAD file with another.
Check Reference File Status lets you:
 Check the status of imported CAD models to see if they have been modified or moved
 Check the status of CAD assemblies and their components imported from SolidWorks or Solid Edge
 Update the ESPRIT model when changes are made to an external file
 Re-link to files that are renamed or moved
 Delete a referenced file and its associated model from ESPRIT
Using the Check Reference File Status command

The Check Reference File Status command is located on the File menu. This command is enabled only when the ESPRIT
document contains an imported part file or assembly file.
The dialog displays the name of every imported file in the current document, the status (Current, Modified, Missing), the date of
the most recent file update, and the location where the file is stored.
File status
Current — The CAD File has the same name, is located in the same absolute path (the exact file path address) as the
originally imported file and it has the same exact time stamp.
Modified — The CAD File has the same name, is located in the same absolute path as the originally imported file and it has a
different time stamp.
Missing — The CAD File cannot be located by its name and/or its absolute path.
Modified status
The CAD files that have the same absolute path and a different time stamp are displayed as Modified. With a Modified status the
user has the option to update the reference file in ESPRIT by selecting the Update button.
If the user chooses to update the reference file the time stamp of the updated reference file is recorded in the ESPRIT file and the
solid body in the ESPRIT file is then replaced with the updated reference file.
Missing status
The CAD files that can no longer be found through the absolute path are displayed as Missing. With a Missing Status the user has
the option to reload the reference file by selecting the Restore Link button.
The absolute reference and time stamp of the new file will be recorded when it completes the load process. The solid body in the
ESPRIT file is then replaced with the new referenced file.
Updating a modified file
ESPRIT does not automatically update the part geometry when an external file has been modified.
You can choose whether or not to update the part geometry in ESPRIT. To update the ESPRIT part to match the updated CAD
file, select the file in the list that has been modified and click Update.
Note: The Update button is not available when assembly files are selected.
Re-linking to a file that has a newer revision

Quite often, designers and engineers will save revisions of the same part with a different file name.
If you need to replace an imported part file with a newer revision, just select the file in the list that needs to be replaced and then
click Restore Link.
You can then navigate to the file you want to load. After linking to the new file, the status changes to "Modified". Click Update
and the part geometry is updated in ESPRIT.
Restoring a missing file

Sometimes a referenced CAD file is moved to another folder or simply renamed. In that case, ESPRIT cannot find the file and
lists its status as "Missing".
If you know the new location or the new name of the missing file, you can restore the link to the file.
Select the line that shows the missing part file and then click Restore Link. Navigate to the file that will replace the missing file,
select it and click OK.
Deleting a referenced file

You can also delete referenced part files. When a file is selected in the list, the item is highlighted in the work area so you can
verify your selection.
When you click Delete, the link and the part geometry are immediately deleted from the current document.
You cannot undo the deletion of a referenced file.
If you delete a file by mistake, you can add it back with the Open command. Be sure to check Merge in the Open dialog to add
the CAD file back into your current document.
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ESPRIT FX™
ESPRIT FX™ is a separate addition to ESPRIT that allows the exchange of design data between ESPRIT and other CAD
systems.
ESPRIT retains the link to the CAD file, allowing the user to update the model in ESPRIT when the CAD model changes.
ESPRIT FX™ is installed in the CAD application. ESPRIT FX™ does not require any add-in in ESPRIT, although this option
does require a special license. You will be able to open any CAD file that has been saved using the add-in.
Using the ESPRIT FX add-in in the CAD system

The add-in is installed and managed by the add-in manager of the CAD system. This is typically located on the Tools > Add-in
menu. Once the add-in is installed and loaded into the CAD system, there is nothing more to do on the user side. When the CAD
file is saved, the add-in sends an “Export successful” message to the status bar to confirm the export of the data.
Using the CAD Feature Exchange Add-in in ESPRIT

When a CAD file is saved using the add-in, you can open the CAD file in ESPRIT and view the CAD design tree.
The CAD Feature Tree is displayed on a tab in the Project Manager. The CAD Feature Tree is an advanced selection tool based
on the native CAD features.

Related information
CAD Feature Manager
Associativity
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Associativity
Associativity can be defined as the recognition of a part and its subsequent downstream activities. When the original CAD model
changes, ESPRIT can recognize those changes and update the downstream activities that are associated to the original part, such
as CAM features and tool path.
In ESPRIT, associativity with the CAD model is available for the following types of features:
 Draft Feature Recognition for wire EDM

 Pocket Feature Recognition and Wall Feature Recognition for 2-1/2 axis milling
 Hole features for drilling
 FreeForm Features for 3-axis and 5-axis milling
How it works
 ESPRIT retains the link to the CAD file as well as to the faces selected when a feature is created on an imported CAD solid
in ESPRIT
 If the CAD model changes, ESPRIT recognizes when faces have been changed, added, or deleted and gives the user
control over whether to update the associated ESPRIT feature
 When a feature is updated, any tool path associated with the feature will be recalculated
Limitations
 Associativity is limited to features created from solid bodies and faces and the selected absolute reference collection
 The collection of CAD faces must never change, and can only be modified (Note: When the ESPRIT FX Add-In can be
utilized, the user has fewer restrictions.)
 Available only on files created in ESPRIT 2009 or greater. File properties were added to the ESPRIT 2009 file format that
are not available in earlier versions. When a file from a previous version is opened and the ESPRIT file contains a
reference file that has changed, the Update button in the Check Reference File dialog is disabled.
Associativity and ESPRIT FX™

The preferred way to use associativity is through ESPRIT FX because there is more control, flexibility and reliability. When
using the ESPRIT FX CAD Feature Tree, the user is still limited to solid bodies and faces, and the absolute reference collection;
however the absolute reference collection is now mapped to a specific CAD feature. This means that the absolute collection
associated to the appropriate CAD Feature can change and associativity will be maintained through the CAD Feature.
In addition, the file status can be viewed and accessed through the CAD Feature manager. The icon preceding the imported Solid
model shows the current status.
Current - A check mark is placed on the specific solid modeler icon used (in this example it is SolidWorks).
Modified
Missing
By right-clicking on the name of the imported solid model in the CAD Feature Manager, the Update, Restore and Delete
commands can be accessed.
Additionally, the user can have ESPRIT automatically check the status of the solid model by clicking Advanced > Options.
Two options let you control how often the status of the imported CAD files are verified.
 Check File Status Every: When checked, the status of each CAD file in the document will be verified automatically at
regular time intervals. The user can set the time interval to hours, minutes, and seconds.
 Check File Status on File Open: When checked, the file status of each CAD file in the document will be verified as soon
as the document is opened.
Note: In some cases, ESPRIT might take a substantial time to load a file that contains referenced CAD files. This is usually due
to a CAD file pointing to an invalid network path or other network performance issues. In this case, disable the option "Check
File Status on File Open".
Associativity and Feature Recognition

By definition associativity can recreate the feature only if the user selects the same faces as input. Therefore, as long as the "face"
stays the same, feature recognition will be able to recreate the feature when updating the model.
The following examples show the associativity between a CAD model and pocket features. The same principles apply to EDM
features and FreeForm features.
Rotating, translating, or scaling a pocket
When a shape in the CAD model is rotated, translated, or scaled, the faces remain the same since there are no major changes that
require rebuilding the model with a new set of faces. However, in ESPRIT, the feature must be recalculated since the tool path
should be updated with the new position.
Figure: Rotation example Figure: Translation
example
Figure: Scale example
Adding a pocket
If a new pocket is added to the CAD model, ESPRIT has no knowledge of this new pocket; therefore, when updating the model,
the newly created pocket will be ignored.
Removing a pocket
If a pocket is removed from the CAD model, ESPRIT will remove the feature from the document because the faces do not exist
in the new model.
Modifying the shape of a pocket
When the user makes a major change to the shape of a pocket by adding or removing faces, associativity will fail to recreate the
feature because it cannot find the previous faces. The feature will stay in the document as is.
However, ESPRIT FX provides more flexibility when CAD features are modified because associativity can use the CAD Feature
Properties attached to the selected face.
Since the feature shown below was created based on all the faces of the CAD Feature “Open Pocket”, associativity uses the CAD
Feature as the input for Feature Recognition; therefore the individual faces in the CAD feature are irrelevant.
If the user modifies the shape of the Pocket by adding or removing faces using a separate CAD Feature, even with ESPRIT FX
turned on, the associativity will not be able to recreate the pocket feature.
For example, the Pocket feature in the original file is created from the CAD Feature “Extrude2”.
In the updated CAD model, the user creates a sub-pocket using another CAD Feature. ESPRIT will try to recreate the feature
using all the faces in the original CAD Feature but the associativity will not be able to get the remaining faces to create a full
pocket.
When the added or removed faces are blend faces at corners, ESPRIT will be able to recreate the Pocket feature even though all
the required faces are not selected.
In this example, even if the corner faces are not used by the associativity because they were created outside of “Extrude2”,
Pocket Feature Recognition will be able to recreate the feature correctly.
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Import Point Data

Use point data saved in a standard text file to create geometry points in ESPRIT and, optionally, a PTOP feature.
ESPRIT will read each line in a text file or comma delimited (*.csv) file to determine the x-, y-, and z-coordinate for each point.
In the text file, the point coordinates can be separated by a comma (,), semicolon (;), or colon (:). The illustration below uses
commas.
1. On the File menu, select Import Point Data. The Import Point Data dialog displays.
2. Click the Browse button to browse for the *.txt or *.csv file you want to import. A preview of the point data displays in the
dialog.

3. Optionally, select Create Drill Feature if you also want to create a hole feature from the point data. Select Optimize Drill
Feature if you also want ESPRIT to calculate the shortest path for the feature.
4. Click Apply to create the geometry points and the optional feature. If there is an error on a line, the line number is
specified so you can correct the problem.
5. When you are done importing point data, click Exit.
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Work Planes
A work plane is a local coordinate system at a specified location and orientation. Work planes allow the creation of elements on
planes other than the global XYZ plane.
Work Planes Command. Sets the current work plane, creates, renames, and deletes work planes.
Work planes are temporary working coordinate systems shown by the location of the UVW Axis. The location and orientation of
the UVW acts as a reference for creating elements. Work planes also allow you to work in planes other than the default xy plane.
For example, if you wanted to place a circle on a face of a 3D rectangle, the UV of the UVW Axis must be repositioned parallel
to that face. Work planes are also useful with Index Milling (4/5-Axis).
Work planes are significant when you create features. ESPRIT automatically assigns one work plane to each feature. The
assigned work plane property affects the orientation of the tooling for cutting operations placed on that feature.
 Work Plane from Geometry

Work Plane from Geometry creates a new work plane from selected elements that define a plane.
 Parallel Work Plane
Parallel Work Plane moves the active work plane incrementally along the U, V and W axes.
 Translate Work Plane
Translate Work Plane moves the active work plane to a new location.
 Rotate Work Plane
Rotate Work Plane rotates the active work plane any angle about a selected line or segment.
 Rotate UVW
Rotate UVW rotates the active work plane any angle about the U, V, and W axes.
 Symmetry Work Plane
Symmetry Work Plane moves the active work plane symmetrically across the UV of a mirror plane.
 Work Plane from Active View
Work Plane from Active View creates a new work plane from the current view.

Related information
Work planes assigned to features
The UVW Axis

To display the UVW axis, select UVW Axis from the View menu.
Use the Work Planes pulldown to change the orientation of the UVW axis to any of the pre-defined work planes shown below.
In the default position, U is parallel to the X axis, V is parallel to Y, and W is parallel to Z.
XYZ ZXY YZX
To create, replace, or delete a work plane, press F10 or select Work Planes from the toolbar or from the View menu. The Work
Planes dialog displays.
To hide the display of the buttons, uncheck More. You can right-click inside the dialog to display a context-sensitive menu.
Work Planes Dialog Settings

Active Changes the orientation of the UVW to the selected work
plane. This setting is the same as selecting a work plane from
the pulldown.
New Creates a new work plane based on the current position of the
UVW. The newly created work plane is added to the
pulldown. When "Include View" is checked, the same name
and orientation is added to the View Planes pulldown so you
can change to that view at any time, such that the W of the
UVW points out towards you. An asterisk (*) displays after the
new plane name in both the Work Planes and View Planes
pulldown lists to indicate that the work planes includes a view.
Delete Deletes the selected work plane from the list.
Replace Replaces the selected work plane with the current UVW
position.
Properties Displays the Plane Properties dialog so you can change the
name or the "Include View" setting.
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Work Plane from Geometry

Work Plane from Geometry creates a new work plane from selected elements that define a plane.
Create a work plane from any of the following: a solid face, two intersecting lines, two intersecting edges of a solid, a circle, a
line and a point not on that line, three points.
Creates a work plane from selected elements that define a plane. Select any of the following:
 A solid face
 Two intersecting lines or edges of a surface or solid
 A line and a point not on that line
 Three points, not on the same line
 A circle
The first line defines the U, the second line defines the V.
If a planar face is selected, the origin is centered at the calculated "middle" of the face, the W axis is normal to the face.
If a cylindrical face is selected, the W axis is oriented along the axis of the cylinder, the origin is set at the highest center of the
cylinder in the W direction of the plane.
If a conic face is selected, the W axis is oriented along the axis of the cone, the origin is set at the highest center of the cone in the
W direction of the plane.
If any other type of face is selected, the origin is set where the user digitized the surface (selection point). The W axis is oriented
normal to the face at the origin point, the U axis is oriented along the U direction of the surface of the face.
Parent topic: Work Planes
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Parallel Work Plane

Parallel Work Plane moves the active work plane incrementally along the U, V and W axes.
Enter values for translation along U, V, and W.
Moves the UVW axis incrementally according to the U, V, and W values you enter. Follow the prompts at the lower left of the
screen. When the UVW has the same orientation as the XYZ axis, Parallel Work Plane works the same as Translate Work Plane.
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Translate Work Plane

Translate Work Plane moves the active work plane to a new location.
Enter values for translation along X, Y, and Z or select a destination point. The destination point can be a point, a vertex on a
solid model, or a virtual point (SNAP, INT, or GRID).
When a destination point is selected, the active work plane is moved from its origin to the destination point. Users can input a
point, a vertex on a solid model, or a virtual point (SNAP, INT, or GRID).
The command also supports arcs and edges as selection input.
 When an arc is selected, ESPRIT will extract automatically the center of the arc as the destination point
 When an edge in the shape of an arc is selected, the destination point will be the center of the arc geometry
 When any other type of edge is selected, the command will use the selection point on the edge as the destination point
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Rotate Work Plane

Rotate Work Plane rotates the active work plane any angle about a selected line or segment.
Select the line of rotation and then enter the rotation angle.
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Rotate UVW
Rotate UVW rotates the active work plane any angle about the U, V, and W axes.
Enter values for rotation around U, V, and W.
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Symmetry Work Plane

Symmetry Work Plane moves the active work plane symmetrically across the UV of a mirror plane.
Select elements that define the mirror plane or use an existing plane by first typing the word "name" and then entering the name
of the work plane.
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Work Plane from Active View

Work Plane from Active View creates a new work plane from the current view.
The U and V component of the new work plane will be set to the U and V vectors of the active view. Since the active view is
referenced to the “Eye View”, the W of the work plane points toward the eye of the user. The origin of the work plane will be set
to the global origin.
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Editing objects
Any number of elements can be selected, grouped, moved, copied, and deleted in ESPRIT.
 Copy/Move
Copy/Move copies or moves grouped elements using a variety of transformation types.
 Group
Group selects one or more elements based on user-defined criteria.
 Grouping Properties
Grouping Properties Command. Automatically groups elements when the Shift key is pressed during the selection
process.
 Delete Duplicate Elements
Delete Duplicate Elements Command. Deletes all geometry elements with identical geometric properties and location.
 Layers
Layers Command. Sets the current layer, shows or hides selected layers, creates, renames, and deletes layers.
 Colors and Line Types
At the lower right of the status area, you can change the current color or line type at any time.
 Selection Filter
The Selection Filter lets you force ESPRIT to recognize only the specified element type.
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Copy/Move
Copy/Move copies or moves grouped elements using a variety of transformation types.
Grouped elements can be translated, rotated, mirrored, projected, scaled, offset, smashed, or aligned with a plane. For example,
geometry can be translated a specified distance in Y to create two new copies.
What do you want to do?

 Align Plane
 Attribute
 Curve Approximation
 Extrude
 Mirror
 Offset
 Optimize
 Project
 Rest Material
 Reverse
 Rotate
 Scale
 Smooth Surface
 Smash
 Symmetry
 Translate
 Work Coordinate
Parent topic: Editing objects
Align Plane
Align Plane moves or copies elements into alignment with another work plane.
Elements are moved from the active plane orientation to another plane orientation. The alignment plane can be selected from a
list of existing planes or the alignment plane can be created by selecting geometry.
Figure: Elements are moved from the active work plane to alignment with a target plane.
Align elements with a plane
1. Position the active work plane on the face that will be aligned with the target plane.
2. Group the elements.
3. On the Edit menu, click Copy or right-click and select Copy.
4. Set Transformation Type to Align Plane.
5. Select a target plane from the list or choose to create the plane from selected geometry.
6. Click OK.
7. If an existing plane was not selected, select geometry that defines a plane. Any of the following can be selected:
 two intersecting lines
 a line and a point not on that line
 three points, not on the same line
 a circle
Attribute
Attribute moves or copies the attributes of elements.
The color, line type, or layer of elements and sub-elements can be changed.
Figure: Change the color, line type, or layer of elements.
Edit the color, line type or layer of elements

3. Set Transformation Type to Attribute.
4. Select one of the following:
 Color
 Line Type
 Layer
5. Click OK.
Curve Approximation
Converts grouped curves (NURB curves) and surface curves to segments and/or arcs according to the parameters you specify.
1. Group one or more curves and/or surface curves.

3. Set Transformation Type to Curve Approximation.
4. Specify the approximation parameters.
 Type: Can be set to Optimum, Seg & Arc, Linear, Arcs, or Bi Arcs. This setting determines whether you want the
curve converted to segments or arcs or a combination of the two. Bi Arcs creates arcs that are tangent to each other.
Optimum automatically picks the best combination.
 Max Radius: The highest radius value that will be used in the conversion.
 Min Radius: The lowest radius value that will be used.
 Min Seg Length: The smallest segment length that will be used.
 Min Arc Length: The smallest arc length that will be used.
 Tolerance: The maximum allowed error. The largest distance between the initial curve and the converted curve will
always be less than the tolerance. A lower tolerance causes the system to take longer to generate the converted curve,
but may produce a more accurate curve.
5. Click OK.
To see the labels of the new geometric elements, open the Masks dialog (Ctrl+M) and select Element Numbers.
Note: If you want to place a chain feature on the elements created with Curve Approximation, Auto Chain is recommended since
there will typically be a great number of elements.
Extrude
Copies elements from their current location to another and creates segments connecting the copy and the grouped elements.
Elements can be translated incrementally by entering X, Y, and Z coordinate values or by selecting two points.
Copy elements using incremental values

3. Set Transformation Type to Extrude.
4. Select XYZ and then enter translation values for X, Y, and Z.
5. Click OK.
Copy elements using two points

3. Set Transformation Type to Extrude.
4. Select Use Two Points.
5. Click OK.
6. In the work area, select a start point or SNAP location.
7. Select an end point or SNAP location.
Mirror
Mirror moves or copies elements across the XY plane of a 3D mirror plane.
The mirror plane can be selected from a list of existing work planes or the plane can be defined by selecting geometry.
Figure: Mirror elements across an XY plane.
Mirror elements across a plane

3. Set Transformation Type to Mirror.
4. Select Move or Copy.
 If Copy is selected, enter the number of copies to create
5. Select a plane from the list or choose to create the plane from selected geometry.
6. Choose whether to use the origin for the center of rotation.
7. Click OK.
 a circle
Offset
Offset moves or copies chain features, draft conic features, ruled features, or a single NURB surface by an offset distance.
The offset for a surface is normal to the original surface.
Figure: Offset a surface, chain feature, or EDM feature.
Offset features
1. Group one or more chains, draft conic features, or ruled features.

3. Set Transformation Type to Offset.

5. Enter the Offset Distance.
6. Choose the Offset Direction: Left or Right.
7. To offset the radius on rounded corners, select Tool Blend. Otherwise, offset corners are sharp.
8. To prevent self-intersections in the offset feature, select Look Ahead.
9. Click OK.
Offset a surface
1. Group a single surface.

3. Set Transformation Type to Offset.
5. Enter the offset Distance.
6. Enter the offset Tolerance.
7. To reverse the direction of the offset, select Reverse Direction.
8. Click OK.
Optimize
Creates a new surface or curve reduced in file size. The optimization routine reduces the number of points used to create the
surface or curve while maintaining accuracy based on the values you enter.
Note: When Optimize is used on the trimmed surface, the surfaces becomes untrimmed.
1. Group the surfaces or curves you want to optimize.

3. Set Transformation Type to Optimize.
4. Specify the optimization parameters.
 Tolerance
Sets the maximum difference between the non-optimized surface and the optimized surface. A smaller value makes a
more accurate surface, but increases the computation time and the file size.
 Degree U, V
Typically you can accept the default value of 3. A larger degree increases the file size and increases the computation
time, but makes a smoother and more precise surface. The "degree" is the power to which the variable is raised in the
polynomial equation used to create the surface or curve. For example, x3 results from a value of 3.
5. Click OK.
Project
Project moves or copies elements by projecting them onto a target plane.
The projection can be based on the direction of the W axis of the active work plane (Project Vertical) or the W axis of the target
plane (Project Normal). The target plane can be selected from a list of existing work planes or the plane can be defined by
selecting geometry.
Figure: Project elements onto the active work plane or onto a target plane.
Project elements along the W axis of the active work plane
1. Activate the plane to use for the projection.

4. Set Transformation Type to Project.
6. Select Project Vertical.
7. Click OK.
Project elements along the W axis of a target plane

3. Set Transformation Type to Project.
5. Select a target plane from the list or choose to create the plane from selected geometry.
6. Select Project Normal.
7. Click OK.
 a circle
Rest Material
Rest Material creates closed chain features in designated uncut areas inside a grouped chain feature.
Areas of rest material are calculated based on diameters for a rough cutting tool and a rest cutting tool.
1. Group a chain feature.

3. Set Transformation Type to Rest Material.
4. Enter a Rough Cutter Diameter.

5. Enter a Rest Cutter Diameter.
6. Choose the Offset Side (Left or Right).
7. Click OK.
A pocketing operation can then be placed on those features to remove the remaining material using a smaller tool. You should
also consider skipping this step and using Stock Automation or a rest machining operation to automatically calculate and cut the
material remaining after one or more operations.
Reverse
Changes the direction of grouped directional elements (such as chain features, PTOPs, or NURB curves).
Rotate
Rotate moves or copies elements by rotation around the Z axis of the active work plane.
Enter the angle between copies, total angle, and number of copies. By default, the elements are rotated around the origin point.
However, any point can be selected as the center of rotation.
Figure: Rotate elements around the Z axis of the active work plane.
Rotate elements

3. Set Transformation Type to Rotate.
4. Select Move.
5. Enter the Angle Between Copies. A positive or negative angle can be used.
6. Choose whether to use the origin for the center of rotation. If the origin is not used, you will be prompted for the center of
rotation.
7. Click OK.
8. If prompted, select a point or SNAP location for the center of rotation.
Rotate a copy of elements

3. Set Transformation Type to Rotate.
4. Select Copy.
5. Enter the Number of Copies to create.
6. Enter the Total Angle of the rotation.
7. Enter the Angle Between Copies. This angle is calculated automatically by dividing the Total Angle by the Number of
Copies, but you can change it.
8. Choose whether to use the origin for the center of rotation. If the origin is not used, you will be prompted for the center of
rotation.
9. Click OK.
10. If prompted, select a point or SNAP location for the center of rotation.
Note: When elements are copied, Total Angle and Angle Between Copies become interactive based on the value for Number of
Copies. For example, if Number of Copies is 2 and Total Angle is 360, then Angle Between Copies is automatically calculated as
120.
Scale
Scale moves or copies elements by a scale factor.
The size of elements can be changed by a uniform scale factor or by separate scale factors along the X, Y, and Z axes. By default,
the elements are scaled around the origin point. However, any point can be selected as the center for scaling.
Figure: Scale elements around a point.
Scale elements uniformly

3. Set Transformation Type to Scale.
5. Select Uniform and enter a scale factor.
6. Choose whether to use the origin for the center of scaling.
7. Click OK.
8. If the origin is not used for scaling, select a point or SNAP location for the center of scaling.
Scale elements non-uniformly

3. Set Transformation Type to Scale.
5. Select By Axis and then enter scale factors along the X axis, Y axis, and Z axis.
6. Choose whether to use the origin for the center of scaling.
7. Click OK.
8. If the origin is not used for scaling, select a point or SNAP location for the center of scaling.
Smooth Surface
Smooth Surface corrects micro-defects in a surface.
Sometimes surfaces have micro-defects that are not noticeable at a glance. Geometric micro-defects can cause defects in the
machining operations that use those surfaces. A typical example is when a surface is used as a drive surface for a Composite
cycle.
Figure: Toolpath analysis shows defects in the toolpath caused by micro-defects in a drive surface.
Smooth Surface uses a smoothing algorithm to smooth and heal defective surfaces.
Figure: Smoothing a micro-defect in a surface.
Note: Although Optimize can also be used to smooth a surface, Smooth Surface makes it even simpler to correct surface defects
(no need to set the surface u,v degrees) and is based on an enhanced smoothing algorithm.
Smooth a surface
1. Group a surface.
3. Set Transformation Type to Smooth Surface.
4. Select Move to modify the selected surface or select Copy to smooth a copy of the surface.
5. Enter a value for Tolerance.
6. Optionally, enter a value for Angle Tolerance.
7. Click OK.
Figure: The properties of a smoothed surface can be compared in the Property Manager.
Smash
Smash extracts elements from features and solid models.
Wireframe geometry is extracted from features, solid edges, solid models, and STL models. Surfaces are extracted from solid
faces. Chain features are extracted from face loops and text. An STL model is extracted from a solid model.
Figure: Extract geometry, chain features, or surfaces from solid models.
Extract geometry from the edges of a solid model or chain features
1. Group one or more solid edges or chains.

3. Set Transformation Type to Smash.
4. Enter a tolerance.
5. Click OK.
Create chain features on face loops
1. Group one or more face loops.

5. Click OK.
Create surfaces from solid faces
1. Group one or more faces.

5. Click OK.
Smash a solid model
1. Group one or more solid models.

4. Choose any of the following:
 Wireframe: wireframe geometry is extracted from all edges. The solid model is preserved.
 Surfaces: all faces of the solid model are converted to surfaces. This option destroys the solid model.
 STL: the solid model is converted to an STL model. This option destroys the solid model.
5. Enter a tolerance. This is the maximum allowable deviation between the actual part and the generated wireframe, surfaces,
or STL body.
6. Click OK.
Extract geometry from the edges of an STL model
1. Group one or more STL models.

5. Enter the Minimum Face Angle. This angle is measured in the plane specified in the Type setting. Any faces with an angle
less than this value are ignored.
6. Choose the plane used to extract wireframe elements. Only items parallel to this plane are considered.
7. Click OK.
Symmetry
Moves or copies a group about a chosen fold line. If you choose Select Axis from Geometry, you will be promped to select a line
or segment after you select OK. If Keep Same Feature Direction is checked, all Features keep their direction (CW or CCW).
 Wireframe
Extracts the edges from solid models and STL models. Tolerance is used to approximate the segments and arcs extracted
from the object. If an STL model is selected as input, the settings for Min Face Angle and Type are used to control how the
wireframe edges are generated.
 Surfaces
Extracts surfaces from solid models. All faces of the solid are converted into surfaces. The specified tolerance is used to
generate the surfaces.
 STL
Converts a solid model into a single STL body. The specified tolerance is used to generate the triangles that make up the
STL body.
 Tolerance
The maximum allowable deviation between the actual part and the generated wireframe, surfaces, or STL body.
 Min Face Angle
The minimum angle considered for wireframe extraction. This angle is measured in the plane specified in the Type setting.
Any faces with an angle less than this value are ignored.
 Type
Sets the plane used to extract wireframe elements. Only items parallel to this plane are considered.
Translate
Translate moves or copies elements from their current location to another.
Elements can be translated incrementally by entering X, Y, and Z coordinate values or by selecting two points.
Figure: Move or copy elements from one location to another.
Move or copy elements using incremental values

3. Set Transformation Type to Translate.
5. Select XYZ and then enter translation values for X, Y, and Z.
6. Click OK.
Move or copy elements using two points

3. Set Transformation Type to Translate.
5. Select Use Two Points.
6. Click OK.
7. In the work area, select a start point or SNAP location.
8. Select an end point or SNAP location.
Work Coordinate
Moves or copies grouped features or operations to destination work coordinates. Grouped operations reproduce their
corresponding features at the destination work coordinate. Grouped features are simply moved or copied.
1. Group one or more features/operations.

3. Set Transformation Type to Work Coordinate.
4. Select Move to modify the selected surface or select Copy to smooth a copy of the surface.
5. To specify a single destination work coordinate, choose Select From List and choose an existing work coordinate from the
pulldown list. To copy the group to all defined work coordinates, select Copy To All.
6. Click OK.
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Group
Group selects one or more elements based on user-defined criteria.
Elements can be grouped by type, by color, by layer, by plane, or any combination of those criteria.
Use the Group command to select one or more elements. You can then manipulate those elements as a group.
1. Group the element or elements you want to manipulate.

2. Manipulate the grouped elements.
3. Select in an open area of the work area to ungroup all elements.
Grouping Elements
Before grouping elements, press the Esc key (twice if necessary) to exit all commands.
 Select the element(s) you wish to group.

 To select multiple elements, hold down the Ctrl key and select the next element.
 To select geometry elements that connect end-to-end (a "chain"), hold down the Shift key and select one of the
connecting elements.
 To add a chain of elements to the group, hold down the Ctrl and Shift keys together, and select an element from the
chain.
 Hold down the Ctrl Key and press W (Ctrl+W) to swap the group (all ungrouped elements become grouped, and visa
versa).
 Hold down the left mouse button and drag a box touching the elements you wish to select. Ctrl and Shift keys may be used
while dragging a box.
 Repeat any of the above to reverse the effect. For example, hold down the Ctrl key and select a grouped element. This
takes the element out of the group. Or, to take a chain of elements out of a group, hold down the Ctrl and Shift keys
together, and select an element from that grouped chain.
 Ctrl+A groups all elements that are unmasked and in visible layers.
 Ctrl+G raises a dialog for grouping all elements of a type or color or all elements in specified layers or planes.
 To ungroup all elements, select in the open area away from any element.
Note: When using Ctrl and/or Shift keys while in Highlight Mode, you must also hold down the Ctrl and/or Shift keys when
answering YES or NO with the mouse.
Summary
 Select element: Groups a single element.
 Ctrl+Select element: Add/Subtract a single element to/from group.
 Shift+Select element: Group a chain of elements.
 Ctrl+Shift+Select element: Add/Subtract chain of elements.
 Ctrl+W: Swap Group.
 Drag Box: Group all elements the box touches.
 Ctrl+Drag Box: Add/Subtract elements the box touches.
 Shift+Drag Box: Group all elements in any chains the box touches.
 Ctrl+A: Group all elements (elements that are unmasked and in a visible layer).
 Ctrl+G: Open dialog to group elements of a type, color, layer, or plane.

Related information
Grouping Properties
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Grouping Properties
Grouping Properties Command. Automatically groups elements when the Shift key is pressed during the selection process.
This command offers a high level of control over the automatic selection of solid faces. The significance of this command is the
speed with which a feature and multiple features can be created from one or more solid models. You can automatically group
multiple faces to create multiple features at once. Automatic face selection works with the following feature types:
 Holes
 EDM Draft Feature Recognition
 Turning Profiles
 FreeForm Feature

Related tasks
Enable the grouping of sub-elements
Group connected geometry automatically
Group faces based on a single edge
Group faces based on a single face loop
Group faces based on a single face
Group faces based on a solid model
Introduction to the Grouping Properties command

A solid model is made up of multiple faces. The perimeter of each face is called a face loop. A loop belongs to a specific face and
is composed of edges. The Grouping Properties command lets you select multiple faces based on the selection of a single face,
loop or edge. You can also automatically group connected wireframe elements based on the selection of a single element.
When you click the Grouping Properties icon on the Edit toolbar, a dialog displays. Geometry or solid faces are automatically
grouped based on the properties defined in the dialog. These preferences stay in effect until you change them. You do not need to
open the dialog each time you want to group face elements.
To the right of each option is a properties icon . Not all options have properties you can set. In that case, the icon is grayed.
Clicking the properties icon will display a dialog where you can set properties that are only applicable for that particular option.
For example, you can set the maximum distance allowed between points for the Geometry > End Points option.
Automatic grouping is enabled by pressing the Shift key during the selection process. You must hold down the Shift key during
the entire time elements are being selected or deselected. To add or remove elements from the group, hold down the Ctrl key as
well as the Shift key. To swap groups of faces or geometry, press Ctrl+W.
Any of the following elements can be selected:
 A wireframe geometry element

 A solid model
 A solid face
 The loop around a solid face
 The edge of a solid face
In the following example, all vertical faces on a die plate have been grouped with a single mouse click.
Then EDM draft features can be created simply and easily.
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Delete Duplicate Elements

Delete Duplicate Elements Command. Deletes all geometry elements with identical geometric properties and location.
For example, if you have several line segments of the same length and at the same location, "Delete Duplicate Elements" will
remove all but one of the segments. Duplicate elements are sometimes the result of imported CAD drawings or redundant work
in ESPRIT.
Select "Delete Duplicate Elements" from the Edit menu.
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Layers
Layers Command. Sets the current layer, shows or hides selected layers, creates, renames, and deletes layers.
Use Layers to hide and show different aspects of your drawing. When elements of any type are placed on a layer, you can turn off
that layer to hide all elements on that layer. The elements are temporarily hidden, not deleted. You can turn the layer back on at
any time to show the elements.
To open the Layers window, select Layers from the View menu or the Layers and Planes toolbar.
 Create a new layer

 Set the current layer
 Show or hide layers
 Place elements on another layer
 Rename or delete a layer
Create a new layer

Select at the bottom of the Layers window, then select New. Enter a layer name and select OK to create the layer. A newly
created layer automatically becomes the current layer. All new elements will be placed on this layer.
You can also right-click inside the Layers window to display a pop-up menu of layer commends.
Set the current layer

A red rectangle indicates which layer is the current layer. Newly created items are placed on the current layer. Double-click on a
layer name to make it current or select the layer name and select Current. You can also select the layer name from the Layers
pull-down in the Layers and Planes toolbar.
Show or hide layers

The check boxes to the left of the layer names let you toggle the display of layers. To turn the display of all layers on or off,
select Select All and then click in one of the check boxes.
Place elements on another layer

1. Group one or more elements.
2. On the Edit menu, select Copy or hold down the Ctrl key and press C (Ctrl+C).
3. Select Move.
4. On the Translation Type list, select Attribute.
5. Select Layer and then select a layer name.
6. Click OK. The elements are moved to the selected layer.
You can also use the Properties window to change the layer of an element. To open the Properties window, hold down the Alt
key and press Enter (Alt+Enter). Group one or more elements in the work area and then select the layer name in the properties
window. If the selected elements are on different layers, the layer name is blank. From the pull-down list, select another layer.
Or, you can click on the arrow and then select an element to copy the layer property from that element. Press Enter to move the
elements to the selected layer.
Rename or delete a layer

Select a layer name and then select Rename or Delete. You cannot delete layer '0', the default layer, but you can rename it.
Note: When you delete a layer, you delete all elements on that layer. To prevent elements from being deleted, place them on
another layer first. To make selection easier, hide all layers except for the one you want to delete.
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Colors and Line Types

At the lower right of the status area, you can change the current color or line type at any time.
To switch back to the default colors and line types, select Default Attributes from the Create menu. To change the default colors
and line types, select Options from the Tools menu and change the settings on the Attributes page.
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Selection Filter
The Selection Filter lets you force ESPRIT to recognize only the specified element type.
Click on the selection filter from the "Select" toolbar...
Then choose the element type you want ESPRIT to recognize. For example, suppose you choose "Features." When ESPRIT
prompts you to select an element, only features will be selected.
This can be a great help when several different elements of different types crowd the element you want to select. HI Mode is
another way of handling this situation, but with HI mode you may have to press the right mouse button several times before you
get to the element you want.
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Geometry
A variety of geometric objects can be drawn in ESPRIT: simple geometry like lines and circles, multi-sided shapes like
rectangles and polygons, and freeform curves. ESPRIT also has functions to modify geometry.
From the Create menu, you can select Unbounded and Bounded Geometry. Unbounded geometry is continuous or unlimited,
such as circles, lines, and ellipses. Bounded geometry has limiting factors applied, such as segments, arcs, and partial ellipses.
When you select Unbounded Geometry or Bounded Geometry from the Create menu, you can create and edit geometry using the
following commands. Many of the commands are common to both toolbars, such as Point, Trim, and Rectangle.
Note: After selecting a geometry command, watch the prompt area at the lower left of the screen for brief instructions on what
you need to do.
 Point
Point creates a point at a specified location, or at a location measured from a selected element.
 Line 1
Line 1 creates a line from one selected element.
 Line 2
Line 2 creates a line from two selected elements.
 Segment 1
Segment 1 creates a line segment from one selected element.
 Segment 2
Segment 2 creates a line segment from two selected elements.
 Circle 1
Circle 1 creates a circle from one selected element and a radius value.
 Circle 2
Circle 2 creates a circle from two selected elements and a radius value.
 Circle 3
Circle 3 creates a circle from three selected elements.
 Arc 1
Arc 1 creates an arc from one selected element and a radius value.
 Arc 2
Arc 2 creates an arc from two selected elements and a radius value.
 Arc 3
Arc 3 creates an arc from three selected elements.
 Ellipse 1
Ellipse 1 creates an ellipse about a selected center point.
 Ellipse 3
Ellipse 3 creates an ellipse from three selected elements.
 Fillet/Chamfer
Fillet/Chamfer modifies the intersection of two elements with a radius (fillet) or an angled segment (chamfer).
 Keep
Keep retains the portion of a selected element between two elements and trims the rest.
 Trim
Trim removes the portion of a selected element between two elements and keeps the rest.
 Point Array
Point Array creates multiple points at evenly spaced intervals.
 Horizontal/Vertical Line
Horizontal/Vertical Line creates horizontal and vertical lines at a user-defined distance.
 Rectangle
Rectangle creates a closed boundary of four perpendicular segments from two reference points.
 Polygon
Polygon creates a closed boundary of three or more straight segments of equal lengths and equal interior angles.
Input Box
As you are creating geometry, you will sometimes be prompted to enter values such as a length or radius. Values are entered in
an input box. The type of value is displayed at the top of the input box.
Type the value in the entry box and then press Enter. The Enter button works the same as the Enter key on your keyboard.
Typically, the input box only displays when you need to enter a value. It may be faster for you to "thumb tack" the input box so
that it remains on the screen. To do this, select the tack button . You can move the input box to any location in the ESPRIT
window. To un-tack the input box, select the tack again .
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Point
Point creates a point at a specified location, or at a location measured from a selected element.
A point can be created at a SNAP location on existing geometry, the intersection of two elements, at a coordinate location, at a
distance measured along an element, or at a distance and angle measured from a reference location.
Use Point to create geometry points in several ways:
 At a snap location
 At the intersection of existing elements
 At XYZ coordinate locations
 At a specified distance along an element
 At a specified distance and angle from a reference location
Select Point from the Bounded Geometry or Unbounded Geometry toolbar. The Point dialog displays:
 Snap
 Creates points at the endpoints or midpoints of segments or arcs and at the center points of circles and arcs. SNAP
mode must be on. You can also select a curve, surface curve, element, axis line, or feature to snap a point on that
element where you select. Select a surface near a corner to snap a point there. SNAP mode does not have to be on to
place a point on an element.
 Intersect
 Creates a point at the intersection of two elements. You can select each element individually or select the intersection
directly. When you select two elements that do not touch, ESPRIT finds the intersection as if the element were
unbound.
 Cartesian/Center
 Creates a point based on the XYZ coordinate values you enter or at the center of a circle or arc. You can use the
global origin (P0) as a reference or use a selected location.
 Enter XYZ values and then select Apply. The point is created at the specified coordinate values. You can continue to
change the XYZ values and select Apply to create as many points as you need.
 Enter XYZ values and then select a point, SNAP location, or grid point. The point is created in relation to the
selected location. You can continue to change the XYZ values or select new reference locations to create as many
points as you need.
 Simply select a circle or arc. A point is created in the center regardless of the XYZ values.
 Distance
 Creates a point at a specified distance along a selected element. You can use a distance value or enter a percentage of
the element's length.
 Enter a distance value and then select an element near the end you want to use as the start point for the distance
measurement.
 Select Use % and enter a percentage value. Then select an element near the end you want to use as the start point for
the distance measurement. You can continue to change the percentage value and select the same or different
elements to create more points.
 Polar
 Creates a point at a specified distance and angle from a reference point. Angles start at 0 degrees (located at the 3
o'clock position) and go counter-clockwise. For example, 90 degrees is at 12 o'clock. You can use the global origin
(P0) as a reference or use a selected location.
 Enter an angle and a distance value, then select Apply. The point is created at the specified values, measured from
P0. You can continue to change the angle or distance values and select Apply to create more points.
 After entering an angle and a distance, select a point, SNAP, or GRID location. The point is created at the specified
values in relation to the selected point. You can continue to change the values and select the same or different points.
Note: To create multiple polar points at one time, use Point Array.
Parent topic: Geometry
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Line 1
Line 1 creates a line from one selected element.
Create a line at any angle through or tangent to a selected element, or parallel to an existing line, segment or axis line.
From the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Line 1 .
Create a line at any angle through a point

1. Select a point or SNAP location.
2. Enter an angle value.
Create a line tangent to a circle or arc
1. Select a circle or arc near the tangency location you want.

2. Enter an angle value or digitize a location in the work area.
Create a parallel line

1. Select an existing line, segment, or axis line.
2. Select a point or SNAP location or enter a distance and indicate a direction.
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Line 2
Line 2 creates a line from two selected elements.
Create a line through or tangent to two selected elements, or perpendicular to an existing line, segment or axis line.
Note: When "Line 2 Always Bounded" is checked in the Options dialog, Line 2 works the same as the Segment 2 command on
the Bounded Geometry toolbar.
From the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Line 2 .
Create a line between two points

2. Select another point or SNAP location.
Create a line tangent to circles or arcs

2. Select another circle or arc, a point, or a SNAP location.
Create a perpendicular line

2. Select a point, SNAP location, or tangency element.
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Segment 1
Segment 1 creates a line segment from one selected element.
Create a segment at any angle through or tangent to a selected element, or parallel to an existing line, segment or axis line.
Segment 1 is similar to the Line 1 command on the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, except that you are typically prompted for a
length value. See Line 1.
From the Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Segment 1 .
Create an angled segment

2. Enter the segment length.
3. Enter an angle value.
Create a line tangent to a circle or arc

2. Enter the segment length.
3. Enter an angle value or digitize a location in the work area.
Create a parallel segment

2. Select a point or SNAP location or enter a distance and indicate a direction.
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Segment 2
Segment 2 creates a line segment from two selected elements.
Create a segment through or tangent to two selected elements, or perpendicular to an existing line, segment or axis line.
From the Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Segment 2 .
Create a segment between two points

2. Select another point or SNAP location.
Create a segment tangent to circles or arcs

2. Select another circle or arc, a point, or a SNAP location.
Create a perpendicular segment

2. Select a point, SNAP location, or tangency element.
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Circle 1
Circle 1 creates a circle from one selected element and a radius value.
Create a circle by defining a center point and a radius value. Concentric circles can be created by selecting an existing circle or
arc and entering the difference in radius.
From the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Circle 1 .
Create a circle from a center point and radius

1. Select a point or SNAP location defining the center point of the circle.
2. Enter a radius value or select another point or SNAP location. If you select another circle or arc, its radius value is used for
the new circle.
Create a concentric circle
1. Select an existing circle or arc.

2. Enter a radius value or select a point or SNAP location. If you select another circle or arc, its radius value is used for the
new circle.
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Circle 2
Circle 2 creates a circle from two selected elements and a radius value.
Create a circle through or tangent to two elements, points, or SNAP locations at a defined radius.
Use Circle 2 to create a circle with a specified radius through or tangent to two elements or locations.
1. On the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Circle 2 .

2. Select an element, point, or SNAP location.
3. Select a second element, point, or SNAP location.
4. Enter a radius value or digitize in the work area.
5. If you entered a radius value, digitize to select the position of the circle.
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Circle 3
Circle 3 creates a circle from three selected elements.
Create a circle through or tangent to three elements, points, or SNAP locations.
Use Circle 3 to create a circle through or tangent to three elements or locations.
1. On the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Circle 3 .

2. Select an element, point, or SNAP location.
3. Select a second element, point, or SNAP location.
4. Select a third element, point, or SNAP location.
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Arc 1
Arc 1 creates an arc from one selected element and a radius value.
Create an arc by defining a center point, a radius value and start and end angles. Concentric arcs can be created by selecting an
existing circle or arc and entering the difference in radius.
Use Arc 1 to create an arc using a center point, a radius value, and specified start and end angles. Arcs are created in a counter-
clockwise direction, so the order of the angles you specify determines the arc created.
1. On the Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Arc 1 .

2. Select a point or SNAP location defining the center point of the arc. The point can be a geometry point or a grid point.
3. Enter a radius value or select a point or SNAP location. If you select a point or SNAP location, it also defines the location
of the start angle.
4. Enter the starting angle or select a start angle location. The arc will be created in a counter-clockwise direction from the
start angle.
5. Enter the ending angle or select a location.
Note: You can convert an arc to a circle using the Keep command.
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Arc 2
Arc 2 creates an arc from two selected elements and a radius value.
Create an arc through or tangent to two elements, points, or SNAP locations at a defined radius.
Use Arc 2 to create an arc with a specified radius through or tangent to two elements or locations. Arcs are created in a counter-
clockwise direction, so the order you select the elements determines the arc created.
When an arc is defined by two points and a radius, but no centerpoint, there are two possible arcs that can be created.
The illustration at right shows the two possible arcs when two
points are selected. Arcs are always created in a counter-
clockwise direction from the first selection point.
To create an arc, you must select which centerpoint to use. You

can digitize near the imaginary center when prompted or you
can specify UP or DOWN.
Create an arc through two points

2. Select a point or SNAP location defining the start location of the arc. The point can be a geometry point or a grid point.
The arc will be created in a counter-clockwise direction from the start angle.
3. Select a point or SNAP locatin defining the end location of the arc.
4. Enter a radius value.
5. Digitize near the approximate center of the arc you want to create or enter UP or DOWN.
Create an arc tangent to two elements

The order you select the tangency elements determines the arc. You cannot create an arc tangent to two parallel segments or
lines. To create an arc between parallel elements, you must select point locations on the elements.

2. Select the first element. The arc will be created in a counter-clockwise direction from a tangent location on this element.
3. Select the second element.
5. Digitize near the approximate center of the arc you want to create.
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Arc 3
Arc 3 creates an arc from three selected elements.
Create an arc through or tangent to three elements, points, or SNAP locations that define the start, midpoint, and end of the arc.
Use Arc 3 to create an arc through or tangent to three elements or locations.

2. Select a point, element, or SNAP location defining the start location of the arc. The point can be a geometry point or a grid
point.
3. Select a second point, element, or SNAP location that the arc will pass through.
4. Select a third point, element, or SNAP location defining the end location of the arc.
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Ellipse 1
Ellipse 1 creates an ellipse about a selected center point.
Create an ellipse by selecting a center point and then define the angle of the ellipse, the major radius and the minor radius.
When you create an ellipse using Ellipse 1, you are prompted for the following information:
1. Center point
2. Angle of major axis
3. Major radius
4. Minor radius
When you create a bounded ellipse, you are also prompted for the start angle and end angle:
This example (right) uses the following settings.
 Angle of major axis = 45

 Starting angle = 0
 Ending angle = 180
The start and end angles are measured from the major axis.
Create an unbounded ellipse

1. On the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Ellipse 1 .
2. Select a point or SNAP location defining the center point.
3. Enter the angle of the major axis.
4. Enter the major radius.
5. Enter the minor radius.
Create a bounded ellipse

1. On the Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Ellipse 1 .
3. Enter the angle of the major axis.
6. Enter the starting angle. A bounded ellipse is created in a counter-clockwise direction from the major axis, so the order of
the angles you specify determines the ellipse created.
7. Enter the ending angle.
Note: You can convert a bounded ellipse to an unbounded ellipse using the Keep command.
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Ellipse 3
Ellipse 3 creates an ellipse from three selected elements.
Create an ellipse through locations that define the center point, the angle and length of the major radius, and the length of the
minor radius.
When you create an ellipse using Ellipse 3, you are prompted for the following:
1. Center point
2. Point that defines the angle of the major axis and the
major radius.
3. Point anywhere on the ellipse
When you create a bounded ellipse, the ellipse is created

counter-clockwise from the second point to the third point.
Create an ellipse using three reference points

1. On the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Ellipse 3 or, from the Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Ellipse 3 .
3. Select a point or SNAP location defining the angle of the major axis and the major diameter.
4. Select a point or SNAP location defining the size of the ellipse.
Note: You can convert a bounded ellipse to an unbounded ellipse using the Keep command.
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Fillet/Chamfer
Fillet/Chamfer modifies the intersection of two elements with a radius (fillet) or an angled segment (chamfer).
When geometry is modified with a fillet or chamfer, the selected elements are either trimmed or extended to the endpoints of the
fillet radius or chamfer segment.
Use Fillet/Chamfer to create a radius fillet between two elements or create a chamfer using two distance values or an angle and a
distance value. When a fillet or chamfer is created, the selected elements are either trimmed or extended to the endpoints of the
fillet or chamfer.
From the Unbounded or Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Fillet/Chamfer .
Create a fillet
1. In the Fillet/Chamfer dialog, select Fillet.
3. Select the two reference elements on the side you want to fillet.
Note: To extend or trim elements to a sharp corner, enter a radius value of zero.
Create a chamfer using two distance values

1. In the Fillet/Chamfer dialog, select Distance Chamfer.
2. Enter values for Distance 1 and Distance 2. Distance 1 applies to the first element you select, Distance 2 applies to the
second.
3. Select the two reference elements on the side you want to chamfer.
Create a chamfer using a distance and an angle

1. In the Fillet/Chamfer dialog, select Angle Chamfer.
2. Enter a distance value. The distance applies to the first element you select.
3. Enter an angle value. The angle is measured from the first element you select.
4. Select the two reference elements on the side you want to chamfer.
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Keep
Keep retains the portion of a selected element between two elements and trims the rest.
Only the selected portion between the two closest intersecting elements is retained. Keep will also convert a bounded element,
like a segment or arc, to an unbounded element, like a line or circle, when Shift+Keep is used.
Use Keep to retain a portion of an element while trimming the rest or convert a bounded element to an unbounded element. For
example, you can convert an arc to a circle.
Keep an element up to the two nearest elements it touches

1. On the Bounded or Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Keep .
2. Select an element in the area you want to keep.
Only the portion between the two nearest intersecting elements remains.
If only one intersecting element is found, the portion of the selected element between its endpoint and the bounding element is
kept.
Keep an element up to two selected elements

2. Hold down the Ctrl key and select an element in the area you want to keep. You are prompted to select bounding elements.
3. Select two elements.
Only the portion between the two selected elements remains.
Convert bounded geometry to unbounded geometry

2. Hold down the Shift key and select an arc, segment, or bounded ellipse.
The element is converted to a circle, line, or complete ellipse.
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Trim
Trim removes the portion of a selected element between two elements and keeps the rest.
Only the selected portion between two intersecting elements is trimmed. If there is only one intersecting element, the selected
element is trimmed between its endpoint and the intersecting element.
Use Trim to remove the selected portion of an element up to the nearest two touching elements or to delete the entire segment.
Trim an element up to the two nearest elements it touches

1. On the Bounded or Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Trim .
2. Select an element in the area you want to trim.
Only the portion between the two nearest intersecting elements is trimmed.
If only one intersecting element is found, the selected element is trimmed between its endpoint and the bounding element.
Trim an element up to two selected elements

2. Hold down the Ctrl key and select an element in the area you want to trim. You are prompted to select bounding elements.
3. Select two elements. Only the portion between the two selected elements is trimmed.
Delete an element
2. Hold down the Shift key and select an element.
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Point Array
Point Array creates multiple points at evenly spaced intervals.
Points can be created along a linear path, in a grid of rows and columns, or along a circular path. The user has the option of
creating a PTOP feature at the same time.
Use Point Array to create multiple points at evenly spaced intervals.
When you select Point Array from the Bounded Geometry or Unbounded Geometry toolbar, the Point Array dialog displays. You
can create three types of arrays: Line, Circle, or Grid. Each type has its own set of parameters.
Choose Line, Circle, or Grid, enter the values, then select a reference point.
To create an array and automatically generate a PTOP feature from those points, select Create PTOP Feature.
Line Array Settings

 Number
 The total number of points in the array, including the selection point.
 Distance
 The constant distance between the points.
 Angle
 The angle of the array, measured from 3 o'clock and in a counter-clockwise direction.
Circle Array Settings

 Number
 The total number of points in the array.
 Radius
 The radial distance measured from the reference point (the center point of the array).
 Angle
 The constant angle between the points.
 Start Angle
 The angle where the array begins, measured from 3 o'clock in a counter-clockwise direction.
Grid Array Settings

The settings in the first column define the initial line of the array and have the same effect as the settings for a line array. The
settings in the second column define the successive line arrays that form the grid.
First Column
 Number
 The total number of points in the initial line array.
 Distance
 The constant distance between the points.
 Angle
 The angle of the array, measured from 3 o'clock and in a counter-clockwise direction.
Second Column
 Number
 The number of successive line arrays that form the grid.
 Distance
 The constant distance between the successive grid lines.
 Angle
 The angle of the successive grid lines in relation to the initial grid line, also measured from 3 o'clock. For example, if
you want the successive grid lines to be perpendicular to the initial line array, enter 90.
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Horizontal/Vertical Line
Horizontal/Vertical Line creates horizontal and vertical lines at a user-defined distance.
Horizontal lines are created parallel to the U axis of the active work plane. Vertical lines are created parallel to the V axis. For
lathe profiles, horizontal lines can be created above or below the U axis based on a diameter. Lines are located at a user-defined
distance measured from the origin of the work plane.
Use Horizontal/Vertical Line to save time creating lines. With this command, you do not need to enter an angle or select a
reference line.
From the Unbounded or Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Horizontal/Vertical Line .
The dialog displays:
Select Vertical, Horizontal, or Diameter, enter the Distance value, and select Apply.
Horizontal/Vertical Line Settings

 Vertical
 Creates a line parallel to the V-axis of the UVW Axis, which is the vertical Y-axis by default.
 Horizontal
 Creates a line parallel to the U-axis, which is the horizontal X-axis by default.
 Diameter
 Creates a line parallel to the U-axis, but all distance values are measured diametrically (the distance is divided by
two). This setting is useful for lathe drawings.
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Rectangle
Rectangle creates a closed boundary of four perpendicular segments from two reference points.
The reference points define opposite corners of the rectangle. When the points lie on different planes, a cube is created consisting
of twelve separate segments.
When the two reference points lie on the same plane, a rectangle is created consisting of four perpendicular segments. When the
reference points lie on different planes, a cube is created consisting of twelve separate segments.
1. On the Unbounded Geometry toolbar, click Rectangle .

2. Select two points or SNAP locations.
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Polygon
Polygon creates a closed boundary of three or more straight segments of equal lengths and equal interior angles.
Create a polygon inside or outside a user-defined diameter with any number of sides and oriented at a user-defined angle.
From the Unbounded Geometry or Bounded Geometry toolbar, click Polygon .
The Polygon dialog displays:
Define the polygon settings and then select a point or SNAP location used as the center of the new polygon.
You can continue to select center locations to create polygons with the same properties or change the settings and select another
location.
Polygon Settings
 OD
 The polygon is created inside the defined diameter. The dynamic drawing to the right updates with your selection.
 ID
 The polygon is created outside the defined diameter.
 Diameter
 Enter the diameter of the imaginary circle used to create the polygon.
 Base Angle
 Enter the angle of the segment located at the bottom of the polygon. Angle are measured counter-clockwise from the
3 o'clock position.
 Sides
 Enter the number of sides for the polygon.
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Curves (NURB Curves)

Curves are geometric elements that pass through a set of points. In ESPRIT, curves are created as non-uniform rational B-splines
(NURBS). NURBS are a mathematical model of 2D and 3D geometry that represent arbitrary shapes while maintaining
mathematical exactness. Curves can also be extracted from existing surfaces and solid models.
When you select Curves from the Create menu, you can create and modify NURB curves using the following commands:
Note: You can convert a NURB curve to arcs and/or segments using Curve Approximation.
After curves are created, you can display direction arrows indicating the start location of each curve. Use the Masks dialog to turn
the display of curve direction on or off. From the View menu, select Masks to display the Masks dialog. On the Details page, set
Curve Direction ON to display curve direction arrows.
 Manual Selection
Manual Selection creates a NURB curve from manually selected points.
 Auto Search
Auto Search creates a NURB curve by searching for and selecting all points found between two selected points.
 Add Box
Add Box creates a NURB curve by connecting all points within a selection box.
 Curve Composition
Curve Composition creates a single NURB curve from any number of selected elements.
 Element to Curve
Element to Curve creates a NURB curve from any acceptable element.
 Helix Curve
Helix Curve creates a NURB curve in the shape of a helix.
 Frenet Frame
Frenet Frame creates three perpendicular segments (normal, tangent, and bi-normal) at a selected position on a NURB
curve.
 Curve Extension
Curve Extension extends an existing curve or, optionally, creates the extension as a new NURB curve.
 Projected Curve
Projected Curve creates a NURB curve at the intersection of two profiles that are projected along their respective
directions of projection.
 Curve From Surface
Curve From Surface creates a NURB curve based on the parametric flow lines of a surface or the face of a solid model.
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Manual Selection
Manual Selection creates a NURB curve from manually selected points.
The curve is created in the order the points are selected. Points can also be added using the Auto Search and Add Box commands.
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Manual Selection .

2. Select points or SNAP locations. You can also select points to add to the curve using Auto Search and Add Box.
3. Click Cycle Stop to create the curve.
Parent topic: Curves (NURB Curves)
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Auto Search
Auto Search creates a NURB curve by searching for and selecting all points found between two selected points.
After selecting a first and last point in a group of points, the points are connected in the same order in which they were created.
To display the number order of the points, open the Masks dialog (Ctrl+M) and select "Element Numbers".
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Auto Search .

2. Select the first point for the curve.
3. Select the last point for the curve.
4. All points found between the first and last point are used to create the curve. You can continue to add points to the curve
using Manual Selection and Add Box.
5. Click Cycle Stop to create the curve .
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Add Box
Add Box creates a NURB curve by connecting all points within a selection box.
After dragging a selection box around a group of points, the points are connected in the same order in which they were created.
To display the number order of the points, open the Masks dialog (Ctrl+M) and select "Element Numbers".
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Add Box .

2. Use your mouse to drag a box over a group of points.
3. You can continue to add points to the curve using Auto Search and Manual Selection.
4. Click Cycle Stop to create the curve .
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Curve Composition
Curve Composition creates a single NURB curve from any number of selected elements.
The selected elements do not have to be connected. If there is a gap between elements, the new curve uses the element end points.
The new curve is created on top of the selected elements.
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Curve Composition .

2. Select elements.
3. Click Cycle Stop to create the curve. The new curve is created on top of the original elements.
Note: The side on which you select each element can affect the outcome. For example, a curve might be different if you select a
segment on one side instead of the other.
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Element to Curve
Element to Curve creates a NURB curve from any acceptable element.
Any of the following are acceptable elements: segments, arcs, circles, surface edges, surface curves, features, PTOPs. The new
curve is created on top of the selected element.
You can select any of the following to create a NURB curve: segments, arcs, circles, surface edges, surface curves, features,
PTOPs. When a PTOP is selected, the new curve is created through the PTOP points. This command is useful for creating NURB
curves from several surface edges. You can then use Curve Composition to create a single NURB curve from those curves and
use it to create another surface.
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Element to Curve .

2. Select an element. The new curve is created on top of the existing element.
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Helix Curve
Helix Curve creates a NURB curve in the shape of a helix.
The helix is based on an axis of rotation, the total length of the helix, a point that establishes the start point, the distance between
each full helical revolution, and any taper angle for the helix.
Before creating a helix, you must have elements defining the axis of rotation and a point that establishes the start point for the
helix. The axis can be defined by two points, a segment, a line or an x-, y- or z-axis line. When points or a segment are used, they
also define the total depth of the helix.
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Helix . You are prompted "Enter Helix Axis".
2. Select two points, a segment, or a line. If you select a line or an axis, you are prompted to enter the helix depth. Otherwise,
the depth is calculated from the length of the segment or the distance between the two points. You are prompted "Enter
Helix start point out of axis".
3. Select a point that establishes the initial radius and angle of the helix. The helix starts at this point. You are prompted
"Enter Helix Lead Value (+CCW, -CW)".
4. Enter the distance between each full helical revolution. A positive value creates the helix in a counter-clockwise direction;
a negative value produces a clockwise helix. You are prompted "Enter Helix Taper Angle".
5. Enter a taper angle for the helix. You can enter a positive or negative value. Enter 0 (zero) for no taper.
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Frenet Frame
Frenet Frame creates three perpendicular segments (normal, tangent, and bi-normal) at a selected position on a NURB curve.
The first segment is created tangent to the curve at the selected position. The second segment is created normal to the curve and
the third is created normal to the first two segments.
1. On the Curves toolbar, click Frenet Frame .

2. Select a position on a NURB curve.
Three segments are created.
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Curve Extension
Curve Extension extends an existing curve or, optionally, creates the extension as a new NURB curve.
A curve can be extended three ways: along a relatively straight path, equal to its original shape, or using a parabolic bend factor.
The original curve can be extended or a new separate curve can be created that extends from the first.
Extend a curve using a linear extension

1. On the Curves toolbar, click Curve Extension .
2. Select the NURB curve near the end you want to extend.

3. In the Extend dialog, select Linear and enter a length for the extension. To create the extension as a separate curve, select
Create New.

4. Select Apply. The curve is extended.
Extend a curve using a full extension


3. In the Extend dialog, select Full. To create the extension as a separate curve, select Create New.
4. Select Apply. The curve is extended equal to the original curve.
Extend a curve using a parabolic extension


3. In the Extend dialog, select Parabolic and enter a Bend Factor between 0 and 1. The bend factor controls how far the
extension will bend. Entering 0 creates the least amount of bend, entering 1 creates the most. To create the extension as a
separate curve, select Create New.
4. Select Apply.
This illustration shows three different extensions using bend factors of 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0.
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Projected Curve
Projected Curve creates a NURB curve at the intersection of two profiles that are projected along their respective directions
of projection.
Two selected chain features are projected along the W axis of the work plane associated with each feature. The new curve is
created at the intersection of the projected profiles.
Projected Curve
To create a projected curve:
1. On the 'Curves' toolbar, click 'Projected Curve' .

2. Select two chain features.
3. Click OK.
The direction of projection is taken from the work plane associated with each feature.
A new curve is created at the intersection of the projected profiles.
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Curve From Surface

Curve From Surface creates a NURB curve based on the parametric flow lines of a surface or the face of a solid model.
A curve can be created in the center along the spine (Spine Curve) or created on the surface along the 'U' or the 'V' direction of
the parametric flow lines (Parametric Curve). A parametric curve can lie directly on the surface or be offset by a user-defined
distance.
Curve From Surface
To create a curve from a surface or face:
1. On the 'Curves' toolbar, click 'Curve From Surface' .

2. Click the selection arrow and digitize a surface or face.
3. Choose the type of curve to create: Parametric Curve, Spine Curve, or Average Curve.
4. For a parametric curve:
a. Choose the parametric direction for the new curve along either the U or V flow lines (the 'U' direction is represented
by a green arrow on the surface; the 'V' direction is represented by a red arrow on the surface).
b. Specify the position of the curve on the surface as a percentage of the surface length (a value of 50% creates a curve
in the middle of the surface).
c. Optionally, choose to offset the curve from the selected surface or face.
5. Enter a tolerance for the calculation of the curve.
6. Click OK to create the curve.
After a face or surface is selected, it is highlighted in the work area and a preview of the curve is displayed.
A parametric curve can be created along the 'U' or the 'V' direction of the parametric flow lines. The 'U' direction is represented
by a red arrow on the surface (as shown in the illustration).
The 'V' direction is represented by a green arrow.
A parametric curve can be positioned anywhere along the surface. The position of the curve is controlled by a percentage value.
Enter a value in 'Curve Position Percent' and press the Tab key to see a preview of the curve location. In this example, the
percentage is set to 20.
A parametric curve can also be offset from the surface in the 'W' direction. A white arrow represents the normal, or 'W', direction
of the surface.
Note: The curve can also be offset in the opposite direction.
The direction of the offset can also be modified along the parametric curve and across the parametric curve.
When a cross angle in entered, the curve is shifted across the source parametric curve. In this case, the parametric curve is in the
V direction so the curve is shifted in the U direction.
When an in-line angle is entered, the curve is shifted along the source parametric curve. In this case, the curve is shifted along the
V direction.
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Solid Modeler
Solid models are digital representations of 3D parts. In addition to describing a 3-dimensional shape, solid models have volume
and mass. They are used as the basis for automatic feature recognition and for stock models used in machining and simulation.
Simple solid models can be created in ESPRIT by extruding and revolving profiles. The edges of existing solid models can also
be modified by applying fillets and chamfers.
When you select Solid Modeler from the Create menu, you can use the following commands to create and modify solid models:
 Extrude Boss/Cut Solid

Extrude Boss/Cut Solid creates a solid model by projecting a planar profile along a normal vector.
 Revolve Boss/Cut Solid
Revolve Boss/Cut Solid creates or modifies a solid model by rotating a profile around an axis at any angle from 0 to
360 degrees.
 Constant Fillet
Constant Fillet puts a fillet on the edges of a solid model.
 Edit Fillet
Edit Fillet modifies fillets on the edges of solid models or generates a spine curve.
 Chamfer
Chamfer puts a chamfer on the edges of a solid model.
 Split Face
Split Face splits one or more faces of a solid model along a system-generated path.
 Merge Faces
Merge Faces merges a group of tangent faces into a single face or a single surface.
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Extrude Boss/Cut Solid

Extrude Boss/Cut Solid creates a solid model by projecting a planar profile along a normal vector.
The profile can be extruded by a specified distance, projected to the face of another solid, or projected through another solid. The
extruded profile can be used to create a new solid model, add material to an existing solid or remove material from a solid.
The geometry used for the profile must be continuous, with no gaps or overlaps. The profile can be an open or closed shape. It is
recommended you place a chain feature on the geometry to make sure there are no gaps or overlaps. You can set the Gap
Tolerance for the chain feature in the Options dialog.
You can extrude a profile to create a solid or remove a portion from an existing solid in four ways:
Blind Mid Plane Up To Face Through All
Extrudes a selected profile by Extrudes a selected profile in Extrudes the selected profile Extrudes a selected profile
a specified distance value. both directions by a specified up to a selected face. through the entire selected
distance. solid.
Extrude Boss/Cut dialog settings

After you group a profile and then select Extrude Boss/Cut Solid from the Solid Modeler toolbar, the Extrude Boss/Cut dialog
displays. As you set the dialog, the solid previews in the work area so you can see the results of your settings. The new solid is
created only after you select OK.
 End Type
 Refer to the above graphic examples. The selected profile is always extruded along the z-axis of the current work
plane. If the selected profile is not parallel to the XY plane, an error message displays. See Work Planes.
 Blind
 An extruded solid is created based on a selected profile and the value entered in Distance.
 Mid Plane
 An extruded solid is created with the selected profile resting in the middle. The selected profile is projected in both
directions by the Distance value.
 Up To Face
 An extruded solid is created extending from the selected profile to the selected face of a solid. You cannot select a
surface face.
 Through All
 An extruded solid is created extending from the selected profile through the entire selected solid.
 Distance
 Applies only when End Type is set to Blind or Mid Plane. Enter the distance to extrude the profile.
 Select Item
 Used only when End Type is set to Up To Face or Through All. You do not enter a value here. This setting is
automatically updated after you follow the prompt to select a face or a solid.
 Reverse Direction
 Applies only when End Type is set to Blind or Mid Plane. When checked, the profile is extruded in the opposite
direction.
 Cut
 Applies only when a solid is selected in Active Solid. When checked, the extruded profile removes a portion of the
selected solid in the shape of the profile.
 Remove Outside
 Applies only when Cut is checked. When checked, solids are created only where the profile intersects the selected
solid. The rest of the solid is trimmed away
Off On
 Draft
 When checked, applies a draft angle to the extrusion. Enter a positive or negative draft angle
Off Positive Draft Angle Negative Draft Angle
 Active Solid
 Applies only when End Type is set to Blind or Mid Plane. When you choose a solid from the pulldown, it is
highlighted in the work area. The extruded profile will be joined with the selected solid or, if Cut is checked, used to
trim the selected solid. When set to None, the extruded profile is created as an independent solid.
 Modify Target
 This setting displays only when End Type is set to Up to Face or Through All. When checked, the extruded profile
will be joined with the selected solid. Otherwise, the extruded profile is created as an independent solid.
 Extrude As
 Choose whether to extrude the profile as a solid or a shell. When an open profile is selected, the only option is Thin
Wall.
 Solid
 The profile must be closed. The profile is extruded as a solid shape.
 Thin Wall
 The profile can be open or closed. The profile is offset by the Thickness value.

 Thickness
 Applies only when Extrude As is set to Thin Wall. Enter the wall thickness of the extruded profile.
 Reverse Side
 Applies only when Extrude As is set to Thin Wall. Changes the side from which the Thickness is measured.
Extrude a profile by a distance value

1. Group the profile you want to extrude (HI mode is recommended). For a chain feature, simply select it. For a continuous
chain of elements, hold down the Shift key and select any element in the loop. If needed, see Group. >
2. On the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Extrude Boss/Cut Solid .

3. In the dialog, set End Type to Blind and enter a Distance value. You cannot enter a negative distance.
4. If the preview in the work area shows the extrusion in the wrong direction, select Reverse Direction.
5. To use the new extrusion to add or remove material from an existing solid, select an Active Solid.
6. If needed, specify a draft angle and whether the new extrusion will be used to cut the active solid.
7. Specify whether to extrude the profile as a solid or as a thin-wall extrusion. Note: If an open profile was selected, you can
only create a thin-wall extrusion.
8. When you are finished defining settings, select OK. The new solid is created.
Extrude a profile in both directions

1. Group the profile you want to extrude (HI mode is recommended). For a chain feature, simply select it. For a continuous
chain of elements, hold down the Shift key and select any element in the loop. If needed, see Group.

3. In the dialog, set End Type to Mid Plane and enter a Distance value. You cannot enter a negative distance.
5. If needed, specify a draft angle and whether the new extrusion will be used to cut the active solid.
6. Specify whether to extrude the profile as a solid or as a thin-wall extrusion.
 Note: If an open profile was selected, you can only create a thin-wall extrusion.
Extrude a profile to a selected face
1. Group the profile you want to extrude. In this example, a circle is used.

3. In the dialog, set End Type to Up To Face. You are prompted to select the face of a solid body.
4. Select a solid face (HI mode is recommended). A border displays around the face to indicate it is selected.

5. If needed, specify a draft angle and whether the new extrusion will be used to cut the selected solid.
6. Indicate whether the extruded profile will modify the target solid.
7. Specify whether to extrude the profile as a solid or as a thin-wall extrusion. Note: If an open profile was selected, you can
only create a thin-wall extrusion.
8. When you are finished defining settings, select OK. In this case, the extrusion is added to the existing solid.
Multiple faces
The face can be multi-faceted, such as the following example. If the projection of the profile falls along more than one face,
select the face nearest the point of contact.
Multiple intersections
You can select any face that falls in the projection range of the selected profile.
The extrusion passes through any other intersecting faces.
Extrude a profile through a solid

1. Group the profile you want to extrude. In this example, a circle is used.

3. In the dialog, set End Type to Through All. You are prompted to select the reference solid.
4. Select a solid.
5. If needed, specify a draft angle and whether the new extrusion will be used to cut the selected solid.
6. Indicate whether the extruded profile will modify the target solid.
7. Specify whether to extrude the profile as a solid or as a thin-wall extrusion. If an open profile was selected, you can only
create a thin-wall extrusion.
8. When you are finished defining settings, select OK. In this case, the extrusion trims completely through the existing solid.
Multiple intersections
The extrusion passes through the entire selected solid, regardless of the number of intersecting faces.
Extrude multiple profiles

Multiple profiles can be simultaneously extruded to create solids or cut existing solids.
1. Group the profiles you want to extrude.

3. Define the dialog settings. In this example, the five profiles will be used to cut the existing solid at once. The same settings
are used for all five profiles.
4. Click OK.
Parent topic: Solid Modeler
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Revolve Boss/Cut Solid

Revolve Boss/Cut Solid creates or modifies a solid model by rotating a profile around an axis at any angle from 0 to 360
degrees.
The revolved profile can be used to create a new solid model, add material to an existing solid or remove material from a solid.
The geometry used for the profile must be continuous, with no gaps or overlaps. The profile can be an open or closed shape. It is
recommended you place a chain feature on the geometry to make sure there are no gaps or overlaps. You can set the Gap
Tolerance for the chain feature in the Options dialog.
You can revolve a profile to create a solid, add material to an existing solid or remove a portion of a solid.
Revolve dialog settings

After you group a profile and then select Revolve Boss/Cut Solid from the Solid Modeler toolbar, the Revolve dialog displays.
As you set the dialog, the solid previews in the work area so you can see the results of your settings. The new solid is created
only after you select OK.
 Angle
 Enter the angle for the rotation.
 Select Axis
 You do not enter a value here. This setting is automatically updated after you follow the prompt to select a rotation
axis. You can select the following elements to define an axis:
 Two points
 A line or a segment
 An axis line
 Reverse Direction
 When checked, the profile is rotated in the opposite direction.
 Cut
 Applies only when a solid is selected in Active Solid. When checked, the revolved profile removes a portion of the
selected solid in the shape of the profile.
 Active Solid
 When you choose a solid from the pulldown, it is highlighted in the work area. The revolved profile will be joined
with the selected solid or, if Cut is checked, used to trim the selected solid. When set to None, the revolved profile is
created as an independent solid.
 Revolve As
 Choose whether to revolve the profile as a solid or a shell. When an open profile is selected, the only option is Thin
Wall.
 Solid
 The profile must be closed. The profile is revolved as a solid shape.
 Thin Wall
 The profile can be open or closed. The profile is offset by the Thickness value.
 Thickness
 Applies only when Revolve As is set to Thin Wall. Enter the wall thickness of the revolved profile.
 Reverse Side
 Applies only when Revolve As is set to Thin Wall. Changes the side from which the Thickness is measured.
Revolve a profile to create a solid

1. Group the profile you want to revolve (HI mode is recommended). For a chain feature, simply select it. For a continuous
chain of elements, hold down the Shift key and select any element in the loop. If needed, see Group.
2. On the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Revolve Boss/Cut Solid .

3. In the dialog, enter an angle value and select the axis of rotation.
4. If the preview in the work area shows the solid revolved in the wrong direction, select Reverse Direction.
6. If needed, specify whether the new solid will be used to cut the active solid.
7. Specify whether to revolve the profile as a solid or as a thin-wall extrusion. If an open profile was selected, you can only
create a thin-wall revolved solid.
In this example, the profile was revolved around the x-axis by 180 degrees.
Note: You can also group more than one profile, as shown below.
A separate solid is created for each profile.
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Constant Fillet
Constant Fillet puts a fillet on the edges of a solid model.
A fillet can be applied to one or more faces, face loops or edges. The fillet can also be propagated along the edges of any tangent
faces.
Use Constant Fillet to place a radius fillet along all the edges of a selected face or along selected edges of a solid. The solid may
be created in ESPRIT or imported.
You can select more than one face or edge, or any combination of faces and edges, and the fillet will be applied to all selected
faces or edges. If you accidentally select a face or edge you don't want, select it again to de-select or select the item in the Fillet
dialog and press the Delete key on your keyboard.
Fillet dialog settings

From the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Constant Fillet . The Fillet dialog displays. The radius fillet is created only after you
select OK.
 Radius
 Enter the fillet radius value.
 Selected Fillet Items
 You do not enter a value here. When you follow the prompt to select items to fillet, this setting automatically updates
with the name of the selected solid face or edge. You can remove an item from the list by selecting it and pressing
the Delete key.
 Propagate to Tangent Faces
 When checked, the new fillet is propagated along the edges of any tangent faces. Otherwise, the new fillet is only
applied to the selected edge or face.
Fillet Edge Off On
Fillet the edges of a solid

1. On the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Constant Fillet .
2. In the dialog, enter a radius value.
3. Select the faces or edges you want to fillet. In this example, a face and individual edges are selected.

4. If necessary, check Propagate to Tangent Faces.
5. Click OK. For this example, the fillet is created as shown.
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Edit Fillet
Edit Fillet modifies fillets on the edges of solid models or generates a spine curve.
Remove selected fillet faces on a solid model, change the radius, or generate a spine curve along the center of the fillet radius.
What do you want to do?

 Change the radius of a fillet
 Remove a fillet from a solid model
 Create a spine curve from a solid fillet
Change the radius of a fillet

1. Optionally, group one or more fillet faces on a solid model. Solid faces can be selected before or after the Edit Fillet
command is clicked.
2. Click Edit Fillet .

3. Set Edit Fillet to Change Fillet Radius.
4. Enter the New Fillet Radius.
5. Select one or more faces to modify. The current radius is displayed on each selected face for easy evaluation.
6. Click OK to modify the solid.
Note: If you make a mistake, you can click Undo to restore the solid model.
Figure: Change a fillet radius in ESPRIT instead of sending the CAD file for revisions.
Remove a fillet from a solid model

1. Optionally, group one or more fillet faces on a solid model..
3. Set Edit Fillet to Remove Fillet.
4. Select one or more faces to remove.
5. Click OK to modify the solid.
Figure: Remove fillets from the model to allow the tool radius to form the fillet during machining.
Create a spine curve from a solid fillet

A spine curve is created along the intersection of the projected normal vectors of a solid face.
1. Optionally, group one or more fillet faces on a solid model..

3. Set Edit Fillet to Create Spine Curve.
4. Enter a tolerance for the calculation of the curve.
5. Choose whether to Smooth Curve. When this option is set to Yes, a smoothing procedure is applied to the curve to reduce
the number of control points, making the curve smoother within the limits of the tolerance.
6. Choose whether to create a Single Curve along all connected faces. When this option is set to No, an individual curve is
created for each face.
7. Select one or more fillet faces.
8. Click OK to create the curve.
Figure: Extract a spine curve to use as a drive curve in a machining operation.
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Chamfer
Chamfer puts a chamfer on the edges of a solid model.
A chamfer can be applied to one or more faces, face loops or edges. The chamfer can be defined by two distance values or an
angle and a distance.
Use Chamfer to place a chamfer along all the edges of a selected face or along selected edges of a solid. The solid may be created
in ESPRIT or imported. You can define the chamfer using two distance values or using an angle and a distance.
You can select more than one face or edge, or any combination of faces and edges, and the chamfer will be applied to all selected
faces or edges. If you accidentally select a face or edge you don't want, select it again to de-select or select the item in the
Chamfer dialog and press the Delete key on your keyboard.
Chamfer dialog settings

From the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Chamfer . The Chamfer dialog displays. The chamfer is created only after you select
OK.
 Type
 Choose how the chamfer will be defined.
 Distance
 The chamfer is defined by two distance values.
 Angle
 The chamfer is defined by a distance and an angle value.
 Distance 1
 Enter the first distance value.
 Distance 2/Angle
 If Type is set to Distance, enter the second distance value. If Type is set to Angle, enter an angle value.
 Selected Chamfer Items
 You do not enter a value here. When you follow the prompt to select items to chamfer, this setting automatically
updates with the name of the selected solid face or edge. You can remove an item from the list by selecting it and
pressing the Delete key.
 Reverse chamfer direction
 Reverses the measurement side for the distance or angle values.
Create a chamfer using two distance values

1. On the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Chamfer .
2. In the dialog, set Type to Distance.
3. Enter two distance values.

4. Select the faces or edges you want to chamfer.

5. If necessary, check Reverse Chamfer Direction.
6. Click OK.
For this example, the chamfer is created as shown.
If Reverse Chamfer Direction was checked, the chamfer would be created as follows:
Create a chamfer using an angle and a distance value

1. On the Solid Modeler toolbar, click Chamfer .
2. In the dialog, set Type to Angle.
3. Enter a distance and an angle value.

4. Select the faces or edges you want to chamfer.

5. If necessary, check Reverse Chamfer Direction.
6. Click OK.
For this example, the chamfer is created as shown.
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Split Face
Split Face splits one or more faces of a solid model along a system-generated path.
The user has the option to split the selected face, create a curve, or both. Splitting a face allows the selection of a portion of a face
as input to another command.
Split Face
A face can be split using one of four methods:
Shortest Path
A single face is split along the shortest path between 2 selected points. Each point can be defined by a vertex or a point on the
border of the selected face.
Set 'Split Type' to 'Shortest Path' and then use the selection arrow to digitize the face to split.
Use the selection arrows to digitize the first and second points of the path. Each point must be on an edge or vertex of the face.
Choose whether to split the face, create a curve between the 2 points, or both, and click OK.
Plane Intersection
A face or group of faces is split at the intersection of the face(s) and the active work plane.
Set 'Split Type' to 'Plane Intersection' and then click inside the frame 'Face to Split' and digitize the face(s) to split.
Choose whether to split the face, create a curve, or both, and click OK.
Draft Line
A face or group of faces is split along a user-defined slope angle. The W direction of the active work plane defines the vertical
direction.
Set 'Split Type' to 'Draft Line' and then click inside the frame 'Face to Split' and digitize the face(s) to split.
Enter a draft angle and then choose whether to split the face, create a curve, or both. Click OK.
In this example, the faces are split along areas where the slope of the face is equal to 10 degrees.
Parametric Curve
A single face is split along a parametric flow line that belongs to the same face.
Set 'Split Type' to 'Parametric Curve' and then use the selection arrow to digitize the face to split.
Choose whether to split the face in the 'U' direction (represented by a green arrow on the surface) or the 'V' direction (represented
by a red arrow). Then enter a value that controls the position of the split line as a percentage of the selected face.
Choose whether to split the face, create a curve, or both, and click OK.
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Merge Faces
Merge Faces merges a group of tangent faces into a single face or a single surface.
When an imported solid model has multiple tiny faces, the model can be simplified by merging those faces into a single face or a
single surface. The underlying parametric data from the solid model is preserved. Faces should be merged prior to applying
machining technology.
Tolerance
The tolerance controls the precision of the merged face. Tolerance affects calculation time. A small tolerance can result in a very
long calculation.
Create Surface
Choose whether to create a single surface instead of modifying the solid model by merging the faces.
Face selection
Faces are added to the selection by first clicking inside the 'Faces' frame and then selecting connected faces on the solid model.
The connected faces must be tangent.
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Surfaces
Surfaces can be created in ESPRIT from geometry, features, NURB curves, surface curves, and surface edges. Surfaces as well as
solid models can be used to create freeform machining operations.
Surfaces have length and breadth, but no thickness. You can analyze surface area and volume, but not weight. Create surfaces
from geometry, features, NURB curves, surface curves, and surface edges, then use them to create freeform machining
operations.
When you select Surfaces from the Create menu, you can use the following commands to create and modify surfaces:
 Sphere
Sphere creates a spherical surface from a center point and a radius.
 Cone
Cone creates a conic surface from two reference points that define the axis of the cone and a radius value.
 Cylinder
Cylinder creates a cylindrical surface from two reference points that define the axis of the cylinder and a radius value.
 Torus
Torus creates a surface in the shape of a torus from two reference points that define the axis of the torus and two radius
values that define the major and minor radius.
 Helix Surface
Helix creates a helical surface from a profile and an axis of rotation.
 Extrude/Draft Surface
Extrude/Draft Surface creates a surface by driving an element along a straight path, with or without draft.
 Rotated Surface
Rotated Surface creates a surface by revolving an element around an axis.
 Normal Surface
Normal Surface creates a surface by sweeping one or two elements along another element.
 Lofted Surface
Lofted Surface creates a surface across two or more elements.
 Curve Mesh Surface
Curve Mesh creates a surface from a mesh of elements.
 Skin
Skin creates a surface using a "spine" element and cross-section elements.
 Coons Patch
Coons Patch creates a surface from three or four elements connected end-to-end to form a closed boundary.
 Poly Blend/Patch
Poly Blend/Patch creates a surface to cover a gap between existing surfaces.
 Fill Area
Fill Area creates a surface inside a boundary.
 Blend
Blend creates a surface between two elements either directly from or normal to the selected elements.
 Constant Fillet
Constant Fillet creates a surface fillet between two existing surfaces.
 Extension
Extension extends an existing surface from a surface edge.
Changing the Display of Surfaces

Select Options from the Tools menu to display the Options dialog, then select the Advanced tab.
The settings for First Direction and Second Direction determine how many wireframe grid lines are used to display surfaces. The
default value for both settings is 3, but you can change it. The display setting has no effect on the actual surface, just the display.
Keep in mind that the more grid lines displayed, the longer it will take your computer to redraw the screen.
First Direction = 3 First Direction = 8 First Direction = 8
Second Direction = 3 Second Direction = 8 Second Direction = 3
When you enter a value for First Direction, Second Direction is automatically updated with the same value. You can select and
change the Second Direction value. When you are finished, select OK. The display of surfaces is updated.
Analyzing Surfaces
You can use the Property Browser to analyze surface properties, such as volume and area. To open the Property Browser, press
Alt+Enter. Select a surface to display its properties, then select a property to have ESPRIT calculate it and display its value.
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Sphere
Sphere creates a spherical surface from a center point and a radius.
The radius can be entered as a numerical value or drag the cursor on the screen to see a preview.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Sphere .

2. Select a point that defines the center of the sphere. You can select a geometry point or a SNAP location.
3. Enter a radius value or select a location defining the radius.
Parent topic: Surfaces
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Cone
Cone creates a conic surface from two reference points that define the axis of the cone and a radius value.
The first point defines the center of the base, the second point defines the top. The radius can be entered as a numerical value or
drag the cursor on the screen to see a preview.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Cone .

2. Select a point that defines the base center point of the cone. You can select a geometry point or a SNAP location.
3. Select a point that defines the top of the cone. You can drag the mouse to see a dynamic preview of the cone.
4. Enter the radius of the base or select a location defining the radius.
Note: To create a truncated cone, create circles defining the top and bottom of the cone, then use the Lofted command on the
Surfaces toolbar.
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Cylinder
Cylinder creates a cylindrical surface from two reference points that define the axis of the cylinder and a radius value.
The first point defines the center of the base, the second point defines the top. The radius can be entered as a numerical value or
drag the cursor on the screen to see a preview.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Cylinder .

2. Select a point that defines the base center point of the cylinder. You can select a geometry point or a SNAP location.
3. Select a point that defines the top of the cylinder. You can drag the mouse to see a dynamic preview of the cylinder.
4. Enter the radius of the base or select a location defining the radius.
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Torus
Torus creates a surface in the shape of a torus from two reference points that define the axis of the torus and two radius
values that define the major and minor radius.
The first point defines the center of the torus, the second point defines the direction of the axis. The major radius and minor
radius can be entered as numerical values or drag the cursor on the screen to see a preview.
Create a torus
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Torus .
2. Select a point that defines the center of the torus. You can select a geometry point or a SNAP location.
3. Select a point that defines the axis of the torus.
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Helix Surface
Helix creates a helical surface from a profile and an axis of rotation.
Select the drive profile and then define the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation can be defined by points, a segment, or an axis
line. The drive profile is rotated around the axis by a user-defined height and rotation angle.
When you create a helix, you must have a drive element defining the helix profile and points or a segment that defines the axis of
rotation. The order you select the points or the location you select on the segment determines the direction of the helix.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Helix .

2. Select the drive element. You can select any acceptable element.
3. Select points or a segment defining the axis of rotation.
4. Enter the rotation angle of the helix. The drive element is be rotated around the axis to form a new surface.
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Extrude/Draft Surface
Extrude/Draft Surface creates a surface by driving an element along a straight path, with or without draft.
The first element defines the shape of the surface, the second element (a line or segment) defines the direction and length. The
user has the option to reverse the direction of the extrusion and apply a positive or negative draft angle.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Extrude/Draft Surface .

2. Select the element you want to extrude. You can select any acceptable element.
3. Select a line, segment, or axis representing the direction of the new surface.
4. Enter the length for the new surface. You can enter a positive or negative value. A red arrow displays on the direction line,
near the level of the reference element. You are prompted "Is this correct direction?".
5. Answer YES/NO to the direction prompt. Press the left mouse button to answer YES, the right mouse button to answer
NO. If you answer NO, the direction arrow if flipped in the opposite direction. Note: If you entered a negative length
value, the extrusion is created in the opposite direction of the arrow.
6. Enter a draft angle. You can enter a positive or negative value. Enter 0 (zero) for no draft. The draft angle is calculated
from the direction line.
Note: It is recommended you set Highlight Mode ON in order to avoid selecting the wrong element. With Highlight Mode OFF,
you could accidentally select a geometry element used to create a curve or chain feature.
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Rotated Surface
Rotated Surface creates a surface by revolving an element around an axis.
The rotated element can be geometry, a curve, a chain feature, or a surface curve. The angle of rotation can be entered as a
numerical value or the rotation can conform to the shape of an optional base element.
When you create a rotated surface, you must have an element you want to rotate (drive element), an axis of rotation, and,
optionally, a base element. A base element is used to control the final shape of the surface. For the axis of rotation, you can select
a line, segment, or an x, y, or z-axis line.
The direction in which the surface is rotated depends on the direction of the axis. In the examples below, the selection order of
the points defining the axis determines the direction of the rotation. Both examples were rotated a positive 180 degrees. You can
also enter a negative rotation angle.
Example 1 Example 2
Create a rotated surface using an angle value

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Rotated Surface .
3. Select a line, segment, or axis defining the axis of rotation. You can also select points or SNAP locations to define the axis.
4. Enter an angle of rotation. You can enter a positive or negative value. When a positive value is entered, the element is
rotated in a counter-clockwise direction to the axis of rotation. A negative value rotates clockwise.
Note: It is recommended you set HI mode ON in order to avoid selecting the wrong element. With Highlight mode OFF, you
could accidentally select a geometry element used to create a curve or chain feature.
Create a rotated surface using a base element
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Rotated Surface .

3. Select a line, segment, or axis defining the axis of rotation.
4. Select the base element.
Example: Focus rotation

A focus rotation distorts the rotation of the drive element toward the axis of rotation, while conforming to the shape of the base
element. The drive element and base element must start at the same point. It is recommended that the drive element lie on the
same plane as the axis of rotation.
In the following illustration, "1" is the drive element, "2" is the axis of rotation, and "3" is the base element. Notice how the top
of the surface conforms to the shape of the base element.
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Normal Surface
Normal Surface creates a surface by sweeping one or two elements along another element.
The first element (base element) defines the path of the surface, the second element (drive element) defines the shape of the
surface. A scale factor controls the size of the drive element at the end of the path. When a second drive element is selected, the
two shapes are blended along the base element
The drive element must be planar and perpendicular to the base element at the base element start point. It is recommended that
the drive element start at the same location as the base element. If you select a second drive element, it must be perpendicular to
the base element at the base element end point.
Create a normal surface

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Normal Surface .
2. Select the base element. You can select any acceptable element.
3. Select the drive element.
4. Enter a scale factor or select a second drive element.
Note: It is recommended you set HI Mode ON in order to avoid selecting the wrong element. With Highlight Mode OFF, you
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Lofted Surface
Lofted Surface creates a surface across two or more elements.
Any number of elements can be selected in the order the surface will be created. Click Cycle Stop to end the selection and create
the surface.
Before creating a lofted surface, you need at least two elements. Typically, the elements should run in the same direction and, if
possible, the element start locations should line up. Otherwise, you may get unpredictable results.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Lofted Surface .

2. Select each element for the surface. You can select any acceptable element.
3. Click Cycle Stop to create the surface.
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Curve Mesh Surface

Curve Mesh creates a surface from a mesh of elements.
All elements in one direction are selected, then all elements in the opposite direction are selected. All elements must intersect.
Before you create a curve mesh surface, you must have a group of elements that form a grid. See acceptable elements. All of the
elements must intersect.
Mesh of Elements Curve Mesh Surface
Create a curve mesh surface

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Curve Mesh Surface .
2. Select the elements in one direction, then click Cycle Stop . If you accidentally select the wrong element, hold down the
Shift key and select it again. The element is deselected.
3. Select the elements in the other direction, then select Cycle Stop . The surface is created.
Create a curve mesh surface with a closed shape

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Curve Mesh Surface .
2. Select the elements in one direction, then click Cycle Stop . If you accidentally select the wrong element, hold down the
Shift key and select it again. The element is deselected.
3. Select the elements in the other direction.
4. Hold down the Ctrl key and select the first element from step 3. This element if the final closing element.
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Skin
Skin creates a surface using a "spine" element and cross-section elements.
The surface follows the shape of the spine element without departing from the cross-sections. If a cross-section element does not
intersect the spine element, the new surface stretches toward the spine element.
A skin surface is like skin stretched over a rib cage of cross-sections. When you create a skin surface, you must have a "spine"
element and cross-section elements defining the shape of the surface. ESPRIT creates a surface that follows the shape of the
spine element without departing from the cross-sections. If a cross-section element does not intersect the spine element, the new
surface stretches toward the spine element.
Spine Element Cross-sections Skin Surface
Skin is similar to Curve Mesh Surface. However, when you create a Skin you need only one "spine" element.
Create a skin surface

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Skin .
2. Select the spine element.
3. Select the cross-section elements.
4. click Cycle Stop from the Edit toolbar to create the surface.
Note: It is recommended you set HI mode ON in order to avoid selecting the wrong element. With Highlight Mode OFF, you
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Coons Patch
Coons Patch creates a surface from three or four elements connected end-to-end to form a closed boundary.
Three types of coons patches can be created: Linear, Cubic, and Blend.
When you create a patch surface, the selected elements can be in different planes and each element does not need to be planar to
itself.
Create a linear coons patch surface

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Linear Coons Patch .
2. In the status area, select Linear .
3. Select three or four elements that connect end-to-end. You can select any acceptable elements.
Create a cubic coons patch surface

A cubic coons patch is similar to a linear coons patch, but is designed to create many coons patches side by side. Cubic Coons
Patch ensures that if connecting sides are tangent, then the connecting edge will also be tangent. This makes a smooth transition
between the adjacent coons patches you create.

2. In the status area, select Cubic .
Create a patch surface

2. In the status area, select Blend .
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Poly Blend/Patch
Poly Blend/Patch creates a surface to cover a gap between existing surfaces.
Two types of patch surfaces can be created. A Poly Blend surface is defined by two surface edges. A Poly Patch surface is
similar, but can be defined by three or four surface edges.
Create a poly blend surface

The surface edges you select on either side should not connect, unless at a single point. See Example 1 and Example 2 below.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Poly Blend/Patch . The Poly Blend/Patch dialog displays.
2. In the dialog, select Poly Blend and select Tangent or Normal. Tangent creates the new surface tangent to the adjacent
surfaces. Normal creates the new surface normal to the adjacent surfaces.
3. Click OK.
4. Select the edge of each surface on the first side you want to blend.
5. When finished, click Cycle Stop from the Edit toolbar.
6. Select the edge of each surface on the second side you want to blend.
7. Click Cycle Stop to create the new surface.
Create a poly patch surface

The surface edges you select must be connected end to end. See Example 3 below.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Poly Blend/Patch . The Poly Blend/Patch dialog displays.
2. In the dialog, select Poly Patch and select Tangent or Coons. Tangent creates the new surface tangent to the adjacent
surfaces. Coons will not necessarily create the new surface tangent to adjacent surfaces.
3. Click OK.
4. Select the edge of each surface on the first side you want to blend.
5. When finished, click Cycle Stop from the Edit toolbar.
6. Select the edge of each surface on the second side you want to blend, then click Cycle Stop.
7. Select the edge of each surface on the third side you want to blend, then click Cycle Stop.
8. Optionally, select the edge of each surface on the fourth side you want to blend.
9. Click Cycle Stop to create the new surface.
Example 1: Poly Blend
1. Select Poly Blend/Patch from the Surfaces toolbar.
2. Set the dialog as follows, then select OK. In this case, either
Tangent or Normal is acceptable.
3. Select the edge of each surface on one side (as shown, right).
4. Click Cycle Stop from the Edit toolbar.

5. Select the edge of each surface on the other side (as shown,
right).
6. Click Cycle Stop from the Edit toolbar.
The new surface is created.
Example 2: Poly Blend

You can also create a poly blend surface between edges that come to a point as follows.
Example 3: Poly Patch

Poly Patch works similarly to Poly Blend (above). Poly Blend lets you select only 2 sides. Poly Patch, however, allows you to
select 3 or 4 sides. The dialog option "Tangent" creates the new surface tangent to the adjacent surfaces. "Coons" does not
necessarily create the surface tangent.
The selected sides must connect end to end. Each side may have multiple elements that connect end to end, as shown in the
following example.
1. Select Poly Blend/Patch from the Surfaces toolbar.
2. Set the dialog as follows, then select OK.
3. Select the edge of the first side (as shown, right), then click
Cycle Stop on the Edit toolbar.
4. Select the edges of the second side (as shown, right), then
click Cycle Stop from the Edit toolbar.
5. Select the edges of the third side (as shown, right), then click
Cycle Stop on the Edit toolbar.
6. Select the edges of the fourth side (as shown, right), then
Click Cycle Stop on the Edit toolbar.
The new surface appears as shown.
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Fill Area
Fill Area creates a surface inside a boundary.
The surface can be created inside a closed or open boundary. When the boundary is open, the surface is created as if an imaginary
segment bridges the start and end of the gap.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Fill Area .

2. Select the border of an open or closed shape. You can select any acceptable element.
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Blend
Blend creates a surface between two elements either directly from or normal to the selected elements.
The Direct option creates the parametric lines for the new surface directly between the selected elements. The Normal option
creates the parametric lines perpendicular to the selected elements.
You also have the option to create a contour blend surface that uses selected alignment points. This is useful when the start points
on the reference elements do not line up and create a misaligned surface. There are two options for surface alignment: As Is and
Specified. As Is creates the blend surface using the existing start points of the reference elements. Specified lets you select an
alignment point on each reference element.
Before you create a blend surface, you must have two existing elements. See acceptable elements.
Create a direct blend surface

1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Blend .
2. Select Direct in the status area.
3. Select the first element for the blend surface.
4. Select the second element for the blend surface.
Example:
This example uses the Direct option to create a surface between the point and surface edge shown below.
When you are prompted to select reference elements, select as follows:
The new surface is created.
Direct is a good choice for the example above, because the parametric lines run straight from the edge to the point.
If Normal is selected in the status area, the program forces the parametric lines to be perpendicular to the edge and the following
blend results, which is probably less desirable:
Create a normal blend surface

2. Select Normal in the status area.
Example:
This example uses the Normal option to create a blend surface between the two surfaces shown below.
When prompted to select reference elements, the two surface edges are selected as follows:
The blend surface is created between them.
If the Direct option had been chosen, the surface would appear as follows:
Create a contour blend surface

2. Select Specified in the status area.
4. Select a point on the first element.
6. Select a point on the second element.
Example:
This example uses the Specified option to create a blend surface between the two surfaces, using alignment points, shown below.
When prompted to select the first reference element, the surface edge and then the point on the edge are selected as follows:
The second surface edge and point are selected in the same way. The contour blend surface is created between them.
If the As Is option had been chosen, the new surface would have been twisted as shown below.
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Constant Fillet
Constant Fillet creates a surface fillet between two existing surfaces.
A different radius value can be defined for each surface, allowing for an elliptical blend. One or both surfaces can be trimmed
automatically to the fillet surface.
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Constant Fillet . The Constant Fillet dialog displays. The dialog settings are discussed in
detail below.
2. Enter radius values and choose settings in the dialog, then select OK.
3. Select each surface near the edge where you want to place the fillet. A direction arrow displays on the first selected surface,
pointing in the direction of the proposed fillet. You are prompted "Is this direction correct for Normal Line?".
4. Answer YES/NO to the direction prompt. Press the left mouse button to answer YES, the right mouse button to answer
NO. If you answer NO, the direction arrow is flipped in the opposite direction. After answering YES, a direction arrow
displays on the second selected surface. You are prompted "Is this direction correct for Normal Line?".
5. Answer YES/NO to the direction prompt.
Constant Fillet Dialog Settings
 First Surface Offset

 Controls the radius of the fillet over the first surface selected.
 Second Surface Offset
 Controls the radius of the fillet over the second surface selected.
 If these values are different, as in the following example, the blend will be elliptical.

 Auto Trim
 Controls which surfaces are automatically trimmed to the fillet surface. Can be set to Off, First, Second, or Both. If
you set this to Off, First, or Second, surface curves are created that allow you to trim the surface at a later time.
 Blend Cut
 Determines how trimmed surfaces are filleted to trim edges. Can be set to Off, First, Second, or Both. Blend Cut
 Tolerance
 The maximum error allowed when creating the blend. A higher tolerance results in a more accurate blend, but will
take longer to compute.
 Sharp Angle Blend
 Creates the fillet surface around sharp corners without stopping. Sharp Angle Blend
 Fill Concave Angle
 Extends a fillet surface on an inside corner all the way to the corner. Fill Concave Angle
 Look Ahead
 Prevents self-intersecting blends on inside corners. Look Ahead
 Surface Filtering
 Reduces the amount of time required to calculate the fillet by using fewer points for the calculation. This may
produce a smoother surface fillet, but could result in less accuracy.
 Relax Curves
 Ensures that the surface curves created with the fillet blend go all the way to the surface edge. Sometimes, the
Tolerance value causes a surface curve to fall short of the edge of the surface, preventing the Auto Trim (or manual
trimming) from taking place.
 Center Line
 Creates a feature marking the center of the fillet. You can use this feature to machine the fillet with a tool of the same
radius. Tip: You may have to repaint the screen to see the new feature after the fillet is created.
Blend Cut
Determines how trimmed surfaces are filleted to trim edges. Blend Cut can be set to Both, Off, First, or Second.
 Off
 Ignores trimmed edges when filleting.
 First
 Trims the fillet to the trim edge of the first surface selected.
 Second
 Trims the fillet to the trim edge of the second surface selected.
 Both
 Trims the fillet to the trim edges of both surfaces.
The way surfaces are trimmed affects the results of the Blend Cut setting. The following illustration shows the trimming of two
ruled surfaces. For more information about trimming and surfaces curves, see Surface Curves.
The following illustrations show the results when the lower ruled surface is selected first when creating the Constant Fillet:
BOTH OFF
FIRST SECOND
Sharp Angle Blend

When checked, processes the fillet blend around sharp corners without stopping. Otherwise, the blend stops at any sharp corner.
Example: ON
Example: OFF
Fill Concave Angle

When checked, causes the blend on inside corners to extend all the way to the corner (to tolerance). When off, the blend will not
reach all the way into the inside corner.
Example: ON
Example: OFF (closeup view)
Look Ahead
Prevents self-intersecting blends on inside corners. Can be checked on or off.
Example: OFF
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Extension
Extension extends an existing surface from a surface edge.
Three types of surface extension are available. Linear extends the surface along a straight path. Parabolic extends the surface
using a bend factor. Full extends the surface equal to its original shape. This command cannot be undone.
Extend a surface
1. On the Surfaces toolbar, click Linear Extension , Parabolic Extension , or Full Extension .
2. Select the surface near the edge you want to extend. The Extend dialog displays.
3. Choose Linear, Parabolic, or Full.
4. Complete the dialog settings and select Apply to extend the surface.
Note: If Create New Surface is checked in the Extend dialog, a new and separate surface is created, extending from the first. If
not checked, the original surface is modified to include the extension.
Example 1: Linear Extension

Select near the surface edge you want to extend.
In the dialog, choose Linear and enter a length value, then select Apply to extend the surface.
The surface is extended.
Example 2: Parabolic Extension

Select near the surface edge you want to extend.
In the dialog, choose Parabolic. Enter a length value and a bend factor between 0 (zero) and 1. The bend factor controls how far
the extension will bend. Entering 0 creates the least amount of bend, entering 1 creates the most.
In this example, a bend factor of 0.5 is used. Select Apply to extend the surface.
The following illustration shows the results when various Bend Factor values are entered.
Example 3: Full Extension

Select the surface near the edge you want to extend. In the dialog, choose Full and select Apply.
Full restores a surface to its complete original shape.
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Surface Curves
Surfaces curves are created on existing surfaces to either modify the surface or to create new surfaces. When a surface curve is
created, it belongs to the selected surface.
When you select Surface Curves from the Create menu, you can create surface curves and use them to modify surfaces using the
following commands:
 Intersect Surfaces
Intersect Surfaces creates two surface curves at the intersection of two surfaces.
 Project Element
Project Element creates a surface curve from the projection of an element onto a surface.
 Curve Composition
Curve Composition connects two surface curves into one and automatically connects any gaps.
 Portion
Portion creates a surface curve by extracting a portion of an existing surface curve.
 2 Points Curve
2 Points Curve creates a surface curve between two geometry points or surface points, placing it on a selected surface.
 Chain Feature
Chain Feature creates a chain feature matching the shape of a selected surface curve or surface edge.
 Trim
Trim splits an existing surface along a surface curve belonging to that surface or by view projection of other elements
onto the surface.
 Untrim
Untrim restores a surface to its previous state before trimming.
 Relax Curve
Relax Curve extends a surface curve to the edge of a surface.
 Close Curve
Close Curve bridges a gap between the start and end of a surface curve.
 Normal
Normal creates a segment perpendicular to a selected location on a surface, a surface point, or a surface curve.
 Tangent
Tangent creates a segment that is tangent (or at any angle to the tangency) to a location selected on a surface, surface
point, or surface curve.
 Curvature
Curvature calculates the minimal curvature radius at a surface location, surface point, or surface curve.
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 Output
 NC Code
 Create Report
 Automate
Intersect Surfaces
Intersect Surfaces creates two surface curves at the intersection of two surfaces.
A new surface curve is created on each surface along the intersection. To trim each surface, the surface curve that belongs to that
surface must be selected.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Intersect Surfaces .

2. Select two surfaces near the intersection you want to use (HI mode is recommended).
Note: When you use a surface curve to trim a surface, you must choose the surface curve that belongs to that surface.
Parent topic: Surface Curves
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Project Element
Project Element creates a surface curve from the projection of an element onto a surface.
The element can be projected along a selected axis or normal to the current view.
Project an element along an axis

1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Project Element .
2. In the status area at the bottom of the screen, select Along.

3. Select the element to project.
4. Select the surface.
5. Select the axis of projection. You can define the axis by selecting two points, a segment, a line, or an axis line.
Project an element in the current view

1. Choose the standard view you want to use for the projection or set the view any way you choose. Any view is acceptable.
2. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Project Element .

3. In the status area at the bottom of the screen, select View.

4. Select the element to project.
5. Select the surface.
The created surface curve can then be used to trim the surface. See Trim Surface. You can also use the Trim command to project
an element and trim the surface at the same time.
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Curve Composition
Curve Composition connects two surface curves into one and automatically connects any gaps.
The two surface curves must belong to the same surface. If a gap exists between the two curves, a segment is created between
them before they are connected.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Curve Composition .

2. Select two surface curves that belong to the same surface (HI mode is recommended). The surface curves are connected.
If you wanted to trim the following surface you could not, because the surface curves do not connect.
To connect the two surface curves that belong to the surface (a plane in this case):
1. Select Curve Composition from the Surface Curves toolbar.

2. Select the surface curves that belong to the surface (the plane in this case)
Note: Change to the ISO View and use HI mode so that you can select the right surface curves.
After you select the surface curves, the program connects them, as shown in the following illustration.
Now that these curves are connected, you can trim the surface:
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Portion
Portion creates a surface curve by extracting a portion of an existing surface curve.
The new surface curve is created on top of the existing surface curve between two selected surface points or geometry points.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Portion .

2. Select near the portion of surface curve you want to extract.

3. Select two points or surface points on the surface curve. The new surface curve is created between the two points.
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2 Points Curve
2 Points Curve creates a surface curve between two geometry points or surface points, placing it on a selected surface.
Two points are selected and then a reference surface. Points located above or below the surface are projected in Z onto the
surface.
Create a surface curve using two points

1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click 2 Points Curve .
2. Select two points (surface points or regular points).
3. Select a reference surface. The new surface curve is placed on this surface, connecting the points.
Create a 2 point curve tangent to existing surface curves

1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click 2 Points Curve .
2. Select the first point.
3. Select a surface curve.
4. Select the second point.
5. Select a second surface curve.
6. Select a reference surface. The new surface curve is placed on this surface, connecting the points and tangent to the
selected surface curves.
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Chain Feature
Chain Feature creates a chain feature matching the shape of a selected surface curve or surface edge.
Only one surface curve or edge can be selected. To create a chain on multiple curves or edges, use the Auto Chain command.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Chain Feature .

2. Select a surface curve or surface edge (HI mode is recommended).
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Trim
Trim splits an existing surface along a surface curve belonging to that surface or by view projection of other elements onto
the surface.
The trim curve can be selected manually or automatically. Geometry or chain features will be projected onto the surface using the
current view to trim the surface.
Trim a surface using a selected surface curve

1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Trim .
2. In the status area at the bottom of the screen, select Manual.

3. Select the surface in the area you want to trim (HI mode is recommended).
4. Select a surface curve that belongs to that surface.
Sometimes, a surface curve may appear to extend to the edge of the surface but cannot be used to trim. In that case, use Relax
Curve to make sure the surface curve extends all the way to the edge.
Trim a surface using an automatically selected surface curve

2. In the status area at the bottom of the screen, select Auto.

3. Select the surface in the area you want to trim (HI mode is recommended).
ESPRIT automatically finds the surface curve nearest to the selection point and uses it to trim the surface.
Trim a surface using a view projection

1. Choose the standard view you want to use for the projection or set the view any way you choose. Any view is acceptable.

3. In the status area at the bottom of the screen, select Manual.

4. Select the surface in the area you want to trim (HI mode is recommended). This example uses the Isometric view and a
chain feature:

5. Select the element you want to project.

 The selected element is projected in the current view onto the selected surface.
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Untrim
Untrim restores a surface to its previous state before trimming.
Any or all trims can be removed. Deleting a surface curve used to trim a surface will also untrim a surface.
Perform a multiple untrim on a surface

1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click UnTrim .
2. Select the surface you want to untrim. If the surface contains more than one trim, a box with a sliding pointer displays. By
default, the pointer is set to remove only the most recent trim.
3. Hold down the left mouse button on the pointer and slide left or right. Sliding to the right by one notch removes the last
two trims and so on. Slide to the far right to remove all trims.
Remove a single trim on a surface

The Untrim command does not need to be used to remove individual trims on a surface. Simply select a surface curve on the
surface and delete it (right-click and select Delete or press the Delete key).
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Relax Curve
Relax Curve extends a surface curve to the edge of a surface.
The selected surface curve is automatically extended to the edge of the surface. The extended curve can then be used to trim the
surface.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Relax Curve .

2. Select the surface curve you want to extend (HI mode is recommended).
The following surface curve was created from the intersection of an extruded arc and a plane (See Intersect Surfaces). Notice that
the surface curve (SC) does not reach the edge. Therefore, it cannot be used for trimming.
1. Select Relax Curve from the Surface Curves toolbar.

2. Select the surface curve.
The surface curve now reaches the edge.
That surface curve can then be used to trim the surface. See Trim Surface.
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Close Curve
Close Curve bridges a gap between the start and end of a surface curve.
Easily close a small gap in a surface curve and then use that curve to trim a surface.
If a surface curve has a gap (even a very small one) it cannot be used to trim that surface.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Close Curve .

2. Select the surface curve you want to close (HI mode is recommended).

 The surface curve is closed. You can then use the surface curve to trim the surface.
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Normal
Normal creates a segment perpendicular to a selected location on a surface, a surface point, or a surface curve.
A preview displays the direction of the segment and a length can be entered.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Normal .

2. Select a location on a surface or surface curve or select a surface point.

 A preview segment displays and you are prompted "Is this direction correct for Normal line?".

3. Press the left mouse button to answer Yes or the right mouse button the answer No. When the preview is pointing in the
correct direction, press the left mouse button. You are prompted to enter a length.
4. Enter a length for the segment. The normal segment is created.
Note: When you select a surface point, you know precisely what location you are selecting. Use the Property Browser
(Alt+Enter) to view the properties of a selected point. For information about creating a surface point, see Points from Surfaces
and Curves.
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Tangent
Tangent creates a segment that is tangent (or at any angle to the tangency) to a location selected on a surface, surface point,
or surface curve.
The system prompts for a tangency angle and length for the new segment. The tangency angle is measured from the surface
normal.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Tangent .

2. Select a location on a surface or surface curve or select a surface point.

 You are prompted to enter an angle. The angle is measured from the tangency to the normal vector, as shown below.

3. Enter a tangency angle value. You are prompted to enter a length.
4. Enter a length for the segment. The tangent segment is created. This example shows a 0 degree angle value.
and Curves.
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Curvature
Curvature calculates the minimal curvature radius at a surface location, surface point, or surface curve.
A circle with a radius dimension is created at the selected location. Curvature is useful for determining the proper diameter for a
cutting tool to machine the surface.
1. On the Surface Curves toolbar, click Curvature .

2. Select a location or surface point on a surface or surface curve (HI mode is recommended).

 A circle and radius dimension is created.
and Curves.
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Backplot
Backplot generates geometry, chain features, or both from NC code.
Backplot is useful for recreating the original geometry of a part file and for comparing the NC code output with the original part
model.
Backplot lets you create ESPRIT geometry from NC code. This is useful for two main reasons:
1. When you need to modify a part and don't have the original source file, converting the NC code to geometry speeds the
drawing of parts that you need to modify or reprogram.
2. You can compare the NC code output to your original model for verification purposes.
For more information, refer to the separate online help for Backplot.
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Form Tool Program

ESPRIT's form tool program greatly simplifies the otherwise difficult task of creating true form tools. You simply apply the form
tool program to geometry for the top view profile. ESPRIT creates chain features of the XY and UV contours. You can then
apply ESPRIT's 4-Axis Contour operation to these features.
From the Create menu, select Form Tool. To display the toolbar, select Form Tool from the Form Tool menu.
Set Origin: Select the reference position from which the values defined in the Form Tool Properties dialog are measured.
This point positions the plane for the rotation of the top and side rake.
Profile: Group the geometry of the top view cutting edge profile (hold down the Shift key and select any element in the
profile). Then select the Profile icon. You are prompted to select the profile start point. To change the profile, simply repeat this
process.
Taper Change: Lets you define the side taper for selected elements in the profile.
Arc Mode Change: You can optionally change an arc from the default value set in the Form Tool Properties dialog.
Generate Paths: Creates one chain feature for the XY profile and one chain for the UV profile. The height of these chains is
set by "XY Profile" and "UV Profile" settings in the Form Tool Properties dialog.
Profile Properties: Lets you move forward and backward from element to element to define the start and end taper values for
each element in the profile.
Form Tool Properties: Define the settings used to create the chain features for the XY and UV profiles when the form tool is
created.
Example: Create a form tool

This example will show you how to create the following form tool:
This example uses the following geometry for the top view profile of the cutting edge.
Set Origin
1. On the Create menu, select Form Tool > Form Tool. The Form Tool toolbar displays.
2. On the toolbar, click Set Origin .
3. Select an origin point. For this example, choose the ESPRIT origin (P0) as shown.
This point positions the plane for the rotation of the top and side rake.
Form Tool Properties
1. On the toolbar, click Form Tool Properties .

2. Set the dialog as shown below. These values are measured from the origin point you selected in step 3. For more
information on each setting, see Form Tool Properties.
3. Click OK.
Profile
1. Group the profile geometry (hold down the Shift key and select any element in the profile).
2. On the toolbar, click Profile . You are prompted to select a "Start Point".
3. Using SNAP mode, select the start point shown.
Taper Change
1. On the toolbar, click Taper Change . The Taper Change dialog displays. These taper values apply only to the "Side
Clearance" set in the Form Tool Properties dialog and, therefore, affect only the side taper. The settings in this dialog have
no effect on the taper for "Front Clearance".
In the Form Tool taper dialog, "Pivot" lets you enter only one value and applies that value to the start and end of the
selected element. "Gradual" lets you enter two values, and applies the first value to the start of the selected element, and
applies the second value to the end of the selected element.
2. Select the arc shown below.
3. Set the taper values as shown and select Apply.
To help remember positive and negative angles: Use the "right hand rule". Aim your right thumb in the positive direction
of an axis. Your fingers curl in the positive rotation for that axis.
4. Select the segment shown and then set the dialog as follows.
5. Select Apply.
6. Select the segment shown and set the taper values to 2.5.
7. Click Apply.
Notice the above taper value is positive. This is because we use the "right hand rule" as shown below. Pointing the right
thumb in the positive axis direction (the Y-Axis in this case), the fingers curl in the direction of the positive angle.
Part drawings often don't say whether the angle is negative or positive, so be sure the check all angle values in this way.
8. Select the small segment shown and set the dialog as follows. Then click Apply.
9. Exit the Change Taper dialog and then select Generate Paths .
Two chain features are created, one for the UV profile and one for the XY profile. Remember, earlier you set UV Profile to 21
and XY profile to 0 in the Form Tool Properties dialog.
Below is an isometric view of the XY and UV profiles, along with the original profile geometry.

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Get Part Page 1 of 187

Backplot generates geometry, chain features, or both from NC code.

 Opening and Saving Files

Parent topic: Get Part

Opening and Saving Files

Parent topic: ESPRIT Files

Supported File Types

 ESPRIT Files (*.esp)

 ESPRIT Files (*.esp)

ESPRIT Template Files

Parent topic: ESPRIT Files

Template Files (Method 1)

Open the Template File.

1. From the File menu, select New.

Template Files (Method 2)

1. From the File menu, select Save As.

Open the Template File.

1. From the File menu, select Open.

Automatically save ESPRIT files

1. On the File menu, click Auto Save.

Restore an ESPRIT file from a backup file

To open a backup version of an ESPRIT file:

1. On the Standard toolbar, click Open .

To save the backup file as a standard ESPRIT file:

1. On the File menu, click Save As.

Auto Save Options

Enable Auto Save

Save Backup on File Load

Save Backup to Document File Folder

Number of Versions to Save

Backup by Number of Commands

Backup by Elapsed Time (minutes)

Before Save Delete all Backup Files Older Than (days)

Parent topic: ESPRIT Files

 Opening CAD files from other systems

Parent topic: Get Part

Opening CAD files from other systems

Note: ESPRIT (.esp) or ESPRIT/X (.src) files cannot be merged together.

 AutoCAD files (*.dxf, *.dwg)

Parent topic: CAD Files

AutoCAD files (*.dxf, *.dwg)

Parasolid files (*.x_t, *x_b)

Parasolid Import Options

 Trim Tolerance: Enter the tolerance to use for trimmed entities.

SolidEdge files (*.par, *.psm, *.asm)

 Trim Tolerance: Enter the tolerance to use for trimmed entities.

SolidWorks (*.sldprt, *.sldasm)

 Trim Tolerance: Enter the tolerance to use for trimmed entities.

Note: CATIA V5 R0–R6 files are not supported.

 Sew Tolerance: Enter the tolerance for the Sew option.

Pro/E files (.prt.*, .prt, asm.*, .asm, .neu.*, .neu)

IGES files (*.igs)

 Sew Tolerance: Enter the tolerance for the Sew option.

STEP files (*.stp, *.step)

 Sew Tolerance: Enter the tolerance for the Sew option.

STL files (*.stl)

ACIS files (*.sat)

 Trim Tolerance: Enter the tolerance to use for trimmed entities.

Inventor files (*.ipt, *.iam)

 Trim Tolerance: Enter the tolerance to use for trimmed entities.

3DM files (*.3dm)

 Sew Tolerance: Enter the tolerance for the Sew option.

CGR files (*.cgr)

Kompas files (*.a3d, *.m3d)

 AutoCAD files (.dxf, .dwg)

AutoCAD files (.dxf, .dwg)

Parasolid files (.x_t, x_b)

SolidEdge files (.par, .psm, *.asm)

SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm)

Pro/E files (.prt., .prt, asm., .asm, .neu.*, .neu)

STEP files (.stp, .step)

Inventor files (.ipt, .iam)

Kompas files (.a3d, .m3d)