Network Rib Feature
Shape Tool Tab
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Use this command to create a network of interconnected
ribs. The
command supports multiple profiles to define the rib paths. Each
profile can define rib sections of varying widths or you can use a single
profile for constant rib widths. For
example all horizontal ribs can be 1.5 mm wide (profile 1) while all vertical
ribs are 1.0 mm wide (profile 2). All
profiles must lie on the same plane. The
profiles are allowed to self intersect but careful attention should be
given to areas where offsetting can cause loop in/out conditions. Such
conditions may cause the command to fail. Note
that this command can automatically "thicken" one-dimensional
profiles.
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Profile - Select the first profile for the rib feature. If you plan to use multiple profiles, enter the thickness (see below) for this profile. You can continue selecting profiles (and entering thicknesses). Middle-click when you’re done.
Thickness – This input is used to thicken one-dimensional profiles. Each profile should represent a set of ribs that do not self-intersect. Use this input to specify the rib thickness for the selected profile. Thickness is used to "flesh out" simple a line work into loops as in an extrude. If the profile or sketch is already a closed loop as desired, thickness can be 0. Each sketch or profile can have a different thickness.
Boundary – Select all boundary faces where the ribs will intersect the part.
Draft angle – Specify the draft angle for the side of the rib walls. Pay attention to the preview echo on the display. It will show you which way the draft will go depending on the +/- value of this draft angle input.