T-FLEX Parametric CAD. Fundamentals. 2D Design

Fundamentals. Two-Dimensional Design
NODES
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Node is a point whose coordinates are calculated depending on the node parameters or position of other
model elements. Nodes are important construction elements in T-FLEX CAD. They represent start and end
points of graphic lines. Nodes are directly involved in creation of most of the graphic elements. They also
play an important role in creation of construction entities.
Creating Nodes
T-FLEX CAD supports nodes of various types, depending on the relation with other model elements. Most
common are nodes constructed at an intersection or at a tangency point between two construction lines. Such
nodes are displayed as small x-shape crosses.
Other types of nodes are displayed differently on the screen.
There are following types of nodes:
Node at intersection of construction lines. Such nodes are used most often in creation of parametric
models. Its position is defined by the position of two construction entities and their intersection to
which the node is related. In the case of multiple intersections between the entities, the particular
intersection shall be identified.
Free node is defined by the absolute X and Y coordinates in the model coordinates. The values of a free
node coordinates can be defined by variables. Such nodes are of limited use in parametric models
being created, however, these are widely used in development of sketches, various diagrams and
technical figures. Free nodes are useful in the cases when there is no strict requirement on positioning
points of the image.
Node from fragment is defined by the position of another node located on a fragment of an assembly.
This type of node is necessary for creation of parametric assemblies. It is used for relating some
element of an assembly with a point on a fragment of this assembly.
Node created relative to another node. Its position is defined by an offset from another node. The offset
values can be defined by constants or by variables. A node of this type can be used as an auxiliary
fixing point in the cases when some element should be snapped at an offset position of the base node
rather than to that node directly.
Node lying on a construction entity, at the specified distance from another node along the entity.
Node – a characteristic point of a construction entity. Among this type are nodes lying at a circle
center, at a start or end point of a spline or other curve.
Node on a curve, dividing the curve in a specified proportion.
Nodes placed at characteristic points of elements. This type includes nodes on dimension witness lines,
on leader notes, at the ends of lines created by copying, etc.
For a point to become a node, the node needs to be created. This can be done in various ways: