Mastering Geometry Editing & Modification in Ansys SpaceClaim

Welcome to the Additive Manufacturing & 3D Printing with Ansys SpaceClaim blog series! In this section, we will explore how to efficiently modify, edit, and control geometry within Ansys SpaceClaim for additive manufacturing. Understanding how to refine designs is crucial in 3D modeling for additive manufacturing and 3D printing with Ansys SpaceClaim, as it helps prevent unnecessary rework and enhances the overall design process. 

Exiting Tools & Selecting Geometry in Ansys SpaceClaim 

When working in Ansys SpaceClaim for 3D printing, it’s common to adjust sketches and modify elements rather than starting from scratch. If you are using a tool such as the Line Tool and need to exit it, simply press the Escape key. In some cases, pressing Escape multiple times may be necessary due to active features within the tool. Alternatively, clicking the Select Tool from the toolbar will also exit the current tool. 

Once in Select Mode, you can hover over different parts of your geometry and click to select them. Selected geometry displays editable dimensions, allowing real-time modifications by dragging or inputting new values. 

Navigating the Design Tree for Efficient Editing 

On the left-hand side of the interface, the Design Tree provides a structured view of all created elements. Under the Structure label, your project (e.g., “Design1”) is listed along with Curves, which contain all lines and shapes drawn in the workspace. Clicking on any entity in this list highlights the corresponding geometry in the workspace, making it easier to select and edit specific elements. 

For instance, if you wish to modify a circle, you can either click it directly in the workspace or select it from the Design Tree. Editing its dimensions is straightforward—click inside the dimension box, type a new value (e.g., changing the diameter from 20 mm to 30 mm), and press Enter to update the model instantly. 

Using the Trim and Corner Tools for Sketch Refinement 

Beyond basic editing, Ansys SpaceClaim for CAD users provides advanced sketching tools like Trim Away and Create Corner, which help refine models efficiently: 

• Trim Away Tool: Removes unwanted line segments from intersecting geometries. When hovering over a line, the section to be removed is highlighted in red. Clicking it deletes the segment between the two nearest intersection points. 
• Create Corner Tool: Connects two non-intersecting lines by extending them until they meet at a corner. Selecting two disconnected segments prompts Ansys SpaceClaim to autocomplete the connection, providing a preview before finalizing the modification. 

Enhancing Workflow Efficiency in Ansys SpaceClaim 

As with any design software, improving efficiency in Ansys SpaceClaim for engineers comes with experience. Utilizing common shortcuts like Ctrl + Z (Undo) and Ctrl + Y (Redo) ensures a smooth workflow when making changes. Experimenting with different tools and refining navigation skills will significantly boost your 3D modeling for 3D printing capabilities. 

Conclusion 

Mastering geometry selection, modification, and navigation in Ansys SpaceClaim for mechanical engineers, designers, and CAD users is essential for creating precise 3D printable models. By learning how to use the Design Tree, Trim Away, and Create Corner tools effectively, you can ensure a more streamlined approach to additive manufacturing with Ansys SpaceClaim. Stay tuned for the next installment of our Ansys SpaceClaim tutorial series, where we’ll explore additional advanced tools and techniques for refining models! 

This blog is part of our ongoing Additive Manufacturing & 3D Printing with Ansys SpaceClaim blog series. If you missed the previous posts, check them out here.   

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