Overview
This lecture introduces the basics of sketching curves, using the Sketch Navigator, and editing sketches within the NX Sketcher interface.
Starting a Sketch & User Interface
- Begin a sketch by selecting the Sketch button on the Home tab and choosing a plane (e.g., front plane).
- The correct orientation should show Z and X axes, looking along the Y-axis.
- If the view is rotated, right-click whitespace and select "Orient View to Sketch" to reset.
Basic Curve Commands
- Line Command: Draw by clicking or dragging; chained lines draw continuously unless you break the chain or hit escape.
- Right-click can convert the last segment between line and arc or end the chain.
- Arc Command: Start by placing a start point, end point, then set the curve; chaining determines tangency.
- Holding Alt while dragging arcs removes tangency snapping.
- Circle Command: Draw by selecting a center and radius or diameter.
- Rectangle Command: Draw by picking two or three points; three-point rectangles allow for angled shapes.
Editing & Deleting Sketch Segments
- Delete any curve or segment by right-clicking it or pressing the Delete key.
- Undo changes to return to a previous state using the undo list.
Moving and Selecting Curves
- Curves without dimensions or constraints can be moved by drag handles.
- Circles: move center or adjust size; Lines: move using midpoint or endpoints; Arcs: move endpoints, midpoint, or center.
Reference Geometry
- Convert live geometry (solid lines) to reference geometry using the "Convert to Reference" tool.
- Reference geometry (dashed line) is not used in solid features, only for positioning or sizing other geometry.
Sketch Navigator
- The Sketch Navigator lists every curve, axis, and origin in your sketch, indicating their status (movable or fixed).
- Editing sketches is done by double-clicking or right-clicking them in the navigator.
Multiple Sketches & Deleting Sketches
- The active sketch is indicated with a dash; old sketches are grayed out.
- Do not keep empty sketches; delete them after finishing the sketch.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Chaining — Drawing successive connected segments without ending the command.
- Reference Geometry — Lines or curves used only for guidance, not for solid features.
- Sketch Navigator — Panel showing a list and status of all entities in the current sketch.
- Tangency — Smooth connection between curves or arcs without sharp corners.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice creating and editing lines, arcs, circles, and rectangles in a new sketch.
- Explore the Sketch Navigator and convert segments to reference geometry.
- Avoid creating extra or empty sketches; delete them if they appear.
- Prepare for next lecture on cursor and snap selection.