Start parts / templates
Start parts work in much the same way as word processor templates - they give you something to work from when you create a new object, rather than going from scratch every time.
For example, a basic start part could contain:
- Default datums & axes
- Default co-ordinate system
- Standard views (front, top, side, etc)
- Layers (for datums, axes, curves, surfaces, etc)
- Parameters (eg: Intralink attributes)
- Standard materials, units, relations, etc
- Maybe even some basic common geometry (eg: extruded or revolved protrusion...)
- If you do include geometry, it's useful to have a default cross-section
eg: for cylindrical parts, use a half section to show the inner workings
Notes for creating defining and using start parts...
- Open or create a part which has all the standard features, views, etc that you require (remove any specific parameter values)
- Use File > Backup to save the part to disk - store it in the Templates subfolder at the Pro/E loadpoint.
- To set this part as your default start part, use this config.pro option:
template_solidpart $proe_loadpoint\templates\start.prt
Where $proe_loadpoint and start.prt are filled appropriately.
Note: Assembly and drawing templates may also be defined:
template_designasm $proe_loadpoint\templates\start.asm
template_drawing $proe_loadpoint\templates\start.drw
- If you work with a variety of start parts, you can stop Pro/E using the default with this config.pro option:
force_new_file_options_dialog yes
Then Pro/E would list the start parts available in the Templates folder allowing you to pick one.
- You could also create mapkeys and toolbar icons for specific start parts - then add them to a custom flyout! the possibilities are endless...
