Newsletter Summer 2008

Have you used a Space Ball?

Many of our engineers have turned to using a "Space Ball" or "Space Mouse" when operating CATIA. These devices, usually operated with the left hand, are used to orient the model on the screen, leaving the right hand free to operate the mouse for selecting geometry or commands. Once mastered, engineers are converted for life and CATIA just isn't the same without one!

Superior Navigation: Pan, zoom, and rotate all at once in one fluid motion. A mouse-only solution allows just one motion at a time, with many stops and starts to position and edit your model.

One-touch access to CATIA V5 functions and macros: Store CATIA V5 function or macro, including keyboard modifiers, in SpacePilot’s programmable buttons. Multiple sets of configurations keep a wealth of essential commands right at your fingertips reducing the tedium of completing repetitive selections

Streamline all modes from Sketcher to Drawing:

Sketcher Mode: Use the mouse to sketch while simultaneously using SpacePilot to optimally position the work plane. Inspect your sketch from multiple positions. Initiate commands such as Normal View, Hide/Show, Swap Visible Space and Exit Workbench with programmable keys. Toggle rotation on and off with the 3D lock button.

Part Modelling Mode: View a model from different view angles with SpacePilot while simultaneously adjusting the size of a feature with the mouse. Drag and copy or drag and move features using the mouse while positioning the part with the 3D controller. Access functions like Shift, Ctrl, Enter, ESC, Fit all In, Top/Front/Left/ Right View, Chamfer, Fillet, Hole and others by pressing SpacePilot’s speed keys.

Assembly Mode: Building assemblies with SpacePilot is simple; position the complete assembly as you insert, or remove components. When using CATIA V5’s Snap function, SpacePilot helps you find the optimum view angle for selecting mating faces of components. Easily access all functions like Snap, Insert Component, Reset Compass, Ctrl, Esc and many others with SpacePilot keys.

Drawing Mode: Position the drawing sheet while creating and placing drawing views, dimensions and annotations. Rapidly access all Drawing mode functions, like Fit all In, New View, Dimensions, Balloon, Geometrical Tolerance and more.

Unleash hidden power functions: Activate the Zoom-to-Cursor command by pressing a power key; then use the navigation cap for fast and accurate zoom. In Fly Mode, SpacePilot lets you steer through your model with full control of direction, speed and acceleration.

Ease of Configuration – may be something about how easy it is to tailor to suit your requirements

User Quotations

“Initially I found the space ball quirky and unfamiliar with the model flying around the screen uncontrollably, but now I wouldn’t be without it, my hand reaching for it without a second thought. I’ve found that using machines without the space mouse to be frustrating, cumbersome and ultimately less productive”

“My 3D Connexion Space Navigator makes light work of manipulating large assemblies in CATIA V5, increasing my efficiency and reducing the risk of repetitive strain. Modelling without it seems like hard work”

Craig Herdman (NPL Technologies)

For more information, visit www.3dconnexion.com/solutions/cad/catia.php

www.intrinsys.co.uk

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