T-FLEX Parametric CAD. Fundamentals. 2D Design

Fundamentals. Two-Dimensional Design
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The graphic entities will subsequently adjust with the construction ones they reference. Thus, a family of
variations of the original drawing can be created. All the rest of the drawing layout will also adjust
accordingly, all done in an instant.
Note that the above scenario for creating a parametric drawing in T-FLEX CAD is just one
recommended technique. One can create construction entities and graphic entities in an arbitrary
sequence. What is important is that the graphic entities are constrained to the construction ones.
The following chapters will tell how to use variables as drawing parameters, how to create an assembly from
fragments, and much more.
Creating Non-Parametric Drawing (Sketch) in T-FLEX CAD
This technique implies quick sketching of the drawing graphics, completely avoiding preliminary creation of
the construction entities.
Sketching supports object snapping and provides dynamic hints that
make the drawing process simple and slick. However, thus created
drawings do not share the advantage of parametric drawings in the
capability of parameter (dimension) modifications. Creating nonparametric
drawings may be somewhat preferable in the cases when no
significant modifications are expected.
Fast Drawing Creation. Automatic Parametrics
Another method of drawing creation combines the previously described methods – it is used for creating
construction-based parametric drawings using commands of non-parametric sketch. The user creates only
image lines, using object snapping. T-FLEX CAD automatically “puts” necessary geometrically related
construction lines under these image lines. The program defines construction types from the snapping used
on creation. For example, for a straight image line parallel to another line the program creates construction
line parallel to the construction line of the original image line. The resulting image line will lie on the new
construction with parametric relation to the original image line.
Quick Reference on User Interface
This section provides quick reference to T-FLEX CAD while assuming user familiarity with PC operation in
general, and some CAD experience as well.
Getting Help
The answers to the questions arising during operation can be got by the following means:
• The current command help can be invoked by pressing key, or by selecting menu
“Help|Current”. Pressing key when no command is active, or selecting “Help|Contents”
invokes the help contents.
• While within a command, the status bar displays hints and prompts.
• Pop-up help appears when the mouse is placed over an icon, a toolbar or other control element for a
brief time. This help message tells the name of the element pointed at, or other related information.
Mouse Interface. Context Menu
T-FLEX CAD operation is mainly performed by mouse. The keyboard is used for inputting numerical
values, names, and, in certain situations, for keyboard command accelerators (see below).