Quick Links for CAD/CAM/CAE

Mechanical CAD/CAM Introduction

Mechanical CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) are essential tools in modern mechanical engineering, enabling designers and engineers to create, visualize, and manufacture parts and assemblies efficiently and accurately.

CAD
CAD software is used by engineers and designers to create detailed 2D or 3D models of parts and assemblies before they are manufactured. Key aspects include:

1. Design & Modeling:

2D Drafting: Creating flat drawings that include dimensions, annotations, and layout details.
3D Modeling: Developing 3D representations of parts and assemblies to visualize shapes, geometries, and design features.
Surface & Solid Modeling: CAD tools allow for complex surface designs (e.g., car bodies) or solid models, suitable for mechanical parts.
Parametric Design: Enables designers to set constraints and relationships, making models adaptable for changes.

2. Simulation & Analysis:

CAD software often integrates tools for Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Thermal Analysis, and Fluid Dynamics, allowing engineers to predict how a design will perform under real-world conditions.
This helps in identifying and optimizing design weaknesses, reducing the need for costly prototypes.

3. Documentation:

CAD models are accompanied by technical drawings and specifications for manufacturing. These include tolerances, material specifications, and assembly instructions.

4. Common CAD Software:

AutoCAD, PTC Creo, SolidWorks, Siemens NX, CATIA, and Fusion 360 are popular choices.

CAM
CAM software uses CAD models to automate manufacturing processes, especially on CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. Key aspects include:

1. Toolpath Generation:

CAM converts CAD designs into toolpaths, the paths a machine tool will follow to create the part.
Toolpaths can include drilling, milling, turning, and grinding sequences for CNC machining.
CAM software allows engineers to define machining parameters, such as feed rates, spindle speeds, and cutting depths.

2. Simulation:

CAM software simulates the machining process, visualizing how material will be removed. This helps identify potential issues like collisions or tool wear before actual machining.

3. Post-Processing:

CAM software outputs G-code, the machine language CNC machines understand to execute tool movements.
G-code generation requires specific parameters tailored to the machine used, including offsets, axis orientation, and tool changes.

4. Common CAM Software:

Mastercam, Fusion 360, Siemens NX, and PowerMill are widely used, often with integrated CAD/CAM solutions.

Benefits of CAD/CAM

Precision: CAD/CAM offers high accuracy, especially in complex designs and tight tolerances.
Efficiency: Reduces development time by minimizing manual drafting, modeling, and trial-and-error prototyping.
Flexibility: Allows for easy design changes, quick updates, and iterations.
Cost Savings: Identifying design flaws early in CAD/CAM simulations prevents costly reworks in production.

CAD/CAM Workflow

The general CAD/CAM workflow begins with creating a model in CAD software, followed by analysis and adjustments. The final CAD model is then imported into CAM software to generate a toolpath, simulate machining, and ultimately produce the part through CNC manufacturing.
Together, CAD and CAM streamline the transition from design to manufacturing, making them fundamental tools in mechanical engineering and manufacturing.

Mechanical AutoCAD Introduction

AutoCAD Mechanical is a specialized version of Autodesk's AutoCAD software, tailored specifically for mechanical engineers and designers. It combines the core functionality of AutoCAD with additional tools and features designed to automate mechanical engineering tasks, streamline the design process, and increase productivity. AutoCAD Mechanical provides an extensive library of standard parts, supports international drafting standards, and offers powerful tools for creating detailed mechanical drawings and documentation.

What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a powerful CAD software application used for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings and models. It allows professionals to visualize, design, and document their ideas with high accuracy and efficiency. AutoCAD supports a wide range of design tasks, from drafting architectural plans and engineering schematics to creating detailed product models and intricate graphic designs.

History of AutoCAD

1982: Autodesk releases the first version of AutoCAD, initially designed for personal computers to bring CAD capabilities to a broader audience.
1985-1990s: AutoCAD rapidly evolves, adding features like 3D modeling, customization options through AutoLISP, and enhancements in user interface.
2000s: Introduction of dynamic blocks, parametric constraints, and improved collaboration tools.
2010s: Cloud integration with AutoCAD 360, enhanced 3D capabilities, and mobile app extensions.
2020s: Continued expansion with AI-driven features, improved interoperability with other Autodesk products, and support for virtual and augmented reality applications.

Key Features of AutoCAD Mechanical
1. Extensive Parts Library

Standard Components: Access to over 700,000 standard parts, including screws, nuts, bolts, washers, pins, bearings, and structural steel shapes.
International Standards: Parts libraries conform to international standards like ANSI, ISO, DIN, JIS, BSI, CSN, and GB.

2. Mechanical Design Tools

Power Dimensioning: Intelligent dimensioning tools that automatically adjust and conform to drafting standards.
Annotation and Symbols: Comprehensive libraries of mechanical symbols, including welding, surface texture, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
Mechanical Structure: Organize and manage assemblies and subassemblies within your drawings.

3. Automation of Repetitive Tasks

Hidden Lines and Detailing: Automatically generate and update hidden lines in assemblies.
Bill of Materials (BOM): Create and manage BOMs that update automatically with design changes.
Associative Balloons: Automatically label parts in assemblies with balloons linked to the BOM.

4. Standards-Based Design

Drafting Standards: Ensures designs adhere to industry standards, reducing errors and improving communication.
Layer Management: Automatic layer management system that organizes drawing components onto appropriate layers.

5. Mechanical Generators and Calculators

Component Generators: Tools for designing shafts, springs, chains, belts, and cams with built-in engineering calculations.
Calculators: Perform engineering calculations directly within the software to validate design choices.

6. Interoperability and Collaboration

DWG Compatibility: Native DWG file format ensures compatibility with other Autodesk products and ease of sharing.
Integration with Autodesk Vault: Manage design data and documentation, track revisions, and collaborate with team members.

7. Customization and Flexibility

User Interface: Customize toolbars, menus, and keyboard shortcuts to suit your workflow.
APIs and Scripting: Automate tasks and extend functionality using APIs like AutoLISP, VBA, and .NET.

Benefits of Using AutoCAD Mechanical
1. Increased Productivity

Time Savings: Automate repetitive tasks and reduce manual drafting, allowing you to focus on design innovation.
Efficiency: Standard parts and features speed up the creation of mechanical drawings.

2. Improved Accuracy

Error Reduction: Automated dimensioning and adherence to drafting standards minimize the likelihood of errors.
Consistent Documentation: Ensure all drawings and documentation are consistent and up-to-date.

3. Enhanced Collaboration

Team Coordination: Easily share and collaborate on designs with team members and stakeholders.
Data Management: Keep track of revisions and manage design data effectively.

4. Compliance with Industry Standards

Standards Adherence: Designs automatically conform to international mechanical drafting standards.
Quality Assurance: Improved compliance leads to higher quality designs and easier manufacturing processes.

Applications of AutoCAD Mechanical
1. Mechanical Part Design

Component Creation: Design individual mechanical parts with precise specifications.
Detailing: Add detailed annotations, dimensions, and tolerances to parts.

2. Assembly Design

Complex Assemblies: Create and manage large assemblies with multiple components.
Interference Checking: Identify potential issues between parts in an assembly.

3. Manufacturing Documentation

Production Drawings: Generate detailed drawings required for manufacturing processes.
BOM Generation: Automatically create bills of materials for procurement and production planning.

4. Product Development

Conceptual Design: Draft initial designs and iterate quickly with automated tools.
Design Validation: Use built-in calculators and generators to validate mechanical designs.

Getting Started with AutoCAD Mechanical
1. Installation and Setup

Subscription: Available through Autodesk's subscription plans, with options for monthly, yearly, or multi-year access.
System Requirements: Ensure your computer meets the recommended specifications for optimal performance.

2. Learning Resources

Official Tutorials: Access tutorials and documentation on the Autodesk Knowledge Network.
Online Courses: Enroll in courses on platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, or Coursera.
User Communities: Join forums and groups such as the Autodesk Community to ask questions and share knowledge.

3. Practice and Skill Development

Hands-On Projects: Start with simple projects to familiarize yourself with the interface and tools.
Templates and Sample Files: Use built-in templates and sample drawings to learn best practices.
Certification: Consider obtaining Autodesk certification to validate your skills.

Tips for Effective Use
1. Customize Your Workspace

Tool Palettes: Organize frequently used tools and commands for quick access.
Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn and customize shortcuts to speed up your workflow.

2. Utilize Standard Parts and Features

Standard Libraries: Make full use of the extensive parts library to save time.
Feature Recognition: Use feature tools for holes, fillets, and chamfers to ensure consistency.

3. Leverage Automation Tools

Automate Tasks: Use scripts and macros to automate repetitive tasks.
Parametric Design: Employ parametric constraints to maintain relationships between objects.

4. Stay Organized

Layer Management: Use layers effectively to organize different elements of your drawings.
Naming Conventions: Adopt consistent naming for files and components to improve clarity.

5. Keep Learning

Stay Updated: Keep up with software updates to benefit from new features.
Continuous Education: Regularly update your skills through advanced courses and workshops.

Conclusion

AutoCAD Mechanical enhances the capabilities of standard AutoCAD by providing specialized tools tailored for mechanical engineering. By automating routine tasks, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and offering a vast library of components, it allows engineers and designers to focus on innovation and efficiency. Whether you're working on simple parts or complex assemblies, AutoCAD Mechanical provides the functionality needed to produce high-quality mechanical designs and documentation.

Additional Resources

Autodesk Official Website: www.autodesk.com
AutoCAD YouTube Channel: Autodesk AutoCAD
AutoCAD Documentation: AutoCAD Help
Online Communities: Autodesk Community Forums, Reddit AutoCAD
Training Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Udemy AutoCAD Courses, Coursera AutoCAD.

PTC Creo and Windchill Introduction

PTC Creo and PTC Windchill are two essential software platforms developed by PTC that work together to support end-to-end product development, from design to lifecycle management, especially in mechanical and manufacturing engineering.

PTC Creo

PTC Creo is a robust CAD software suite known for its advanced parametric and 3D modeling capabilities. By offering a unified design environment, Creo enables companies to accelerate design iterations and reduce errors, supporting faster time-to-market. Creo Parametric and Creo Elements compete directly with CATIA, Siemens NX/Solid Edge, and SolidWorks. The Creo suite of apps replace and supersede PTC’s products formerly known as Pro/ENGINEER, CoCreate, and ProductView.

Creo release history
Version Release date
Creo 1.0 @01/06/2011

Creo 10.0 @04/18/2023

Creo 10.0.7.0 @12/11/2024

Creo 11.0.2.0 @10/01/2024

Creo Key features include:

Parametric Modeling:
- Allows designers to create models based on parameters and constraints, making it easy to modify designs by updating the values of these parameters.
3D Modeling & Assemblies:
- Provides tools for detailed part and assembly modeling, allowing complex structures to be built with accurate geometry and relationships.
Simulation & Analysis:
- Integrates real-time simulation features, such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to test structural and thermal behavior before physical prototyping.
Additive Manufacturing & Generative Design:
- Enables 3D printing preparations and optimizations for designs, offering tools that help in lightweighting and design-for-additive approaches.
Augmented Reality (AR):
- Supports AR experiences to visualize and interact with 3D models in a real-world context, which is valuable for design reviews and customer presentations.
CAD Data Management:
- Manages CAD data natively, making it easy to create and share technical drawings, parts lists, and other product information across teams.

PTC Windchill

PTC Windchill is a comprehensive PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) platform that centralizes data management and provides tools for collaborative product development. Windchill serves as the backbone for product lifecycle management, offering secure, role-based access to project data, making it easy for geographically dispersed teams to collaborate and stay aligned. It is Highly configurable and customizable.

Windchill release history
Version Release Date
Windchill 4.0 @November 1999

Windchill 12.0 @June 2020

Windchill 12.0.2.23 @01/15/2025

Windchill 13.1.0.0 @12/13/2024

Windchill Key Modules:

PDMLink (Product Data Management): Integrates with CAD tools and other PLM systems to manage product data and lifecycle processes. It supports bi-directional data exchange, ensuring that design and manufacturing teams work with the latest information. Here are some of its key functionalities and capabilities:
- Centralized Data Management: PDMLink consolidates product information from various sources into a single, centralized repository, making it easier to manage and access data.
- Configuration Management: It provides powerful tools for managing product configurations, ensuring that all product data is accurate and up-to-date.
- Change Management: PDMLink includes comprehensive change management capabilities, allowing users to track and manage changes throughout the product lifecycle.
- Lifecycle and Workflow Management: The tool supports lifecycle and workflow management, enabling organizations to automate and control process tasks, including reviews and approvals.
- Collaborative Design: PDMLink facilitates collaborative design by enabling teams to work together on product development, regardless of their location.
- Design Outsourcing: It supports design outsourcing by providing mechanisms to group objects and data, which can be assigned to customers or suppliers as part of any business process.
- Variant Design and Generation: The tool allows for the creation and management of product variants, helping organizations efficiently handle product diversity.
- Integration with Other Systems: PDMLink integrates with other enterprise systems, such as ERP, to ensure seamless data flow and consistency across the organization.

Common Base: It is a foundational component that includes essential elements shared across various Windchill solutions, such as Windchill PDMLink, Windchill CAPA, and Windchill Integrations for Embedded Software. It provides a foundational layer for building and managing various solutions within the PTC ecosystem. Here are some of its key functionalities and capabilities:
- Base Building Block: This serves as the core component, encapsulating all entities related to the building block in one package.
- Database Connection: It includes a building block for managing database connections, ensuring seamless data integration.
- Model Management: This feature helps in managing different models within the PTC environment.
- User Management: It provides tools for managing user roles, permissions, and access control.
- Configuration Management: The base building block includes configuration management capabilities, allowing for the definition and management of configuration tables and services.

MPMLink (Manufacturing Process Management): Integrates with ERP and MES systems to streamline manufacturing processes. It ensures that manufacturing plans are aligned with product designs and that production data is accurately captured and managed. MPMLink maintains links between engineering BOM (eBOM) and manufacturing BOM (mBOM), ensuring that manufacturing designs are always up-to-date with engineering designs.

ProjectLink (Project/Program Management): Connects with project management tools to facilitate collaborative product development. It helps track project progress, manage tasks, and ensure that all stakeholders are aligned.
- Managing Projects and Programs

PartsLink: It enhances the management and reuse of classifiable objects such as parts and documents within Windchill.

REST Services: Offers RESTful APIs for integrating Windchill with other enterprise applications. This allows for custom integrations and data exchange with third-party systems.

Info*Engine: It enables integration, automation, and data management across various systems. Here are some of its key functionalities and capabilities:
- Data Management: Info*Engine allows for the integration and management of data from various sources, enabling seamless data exchange between Windchill and other enterprise systems.
- Task Automation: It supports the creation and execution of tasks that automate repetitive processes, improving efficiency and reducing manual effort.
- Web Services: Info*Engine provides a framework for creating and consuming web services, allowing for the integration of Windchill with other web-based applications.
- Credentials Mapping: It includes capabilities for mapping user credentials to specific usernames and passwords, facilitating secure access to backend systems.
- Messaging: Info*Engine supports messaging capabilities, enabling communication between different systems and components within the enterprise.
- SOAP Services: It provides support for SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) services, allowing for standardized communication between web services.

Information Modeler: It helps engineers create and manage information models within the Windchill environment. Here are some of its key functionalities and capabilities:
- Requirements Management: PTC Modeler helps capture and manage requirements throughout the system and software development lifecycle.
- Modeling Languages: It supports various modeling languages, including UML (Unified Modeling Language) and SysML (Systems Modeling Language), allowing for detailed system and software design.
- Traceability: The tool provides end-to-end traceability from requirements to functional and logical architecture modeling, ensuring that all design elements are aligned with initial requirements.
- Simulation and Analysis: PTC Modeler enables system simulation and analysis, helping engineers evaluate design alternatives and validate system behaviors.
- Integration with Windchill: It integrates with Windchill PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) and the engineering digital thread using OSLC (Open Services for Lifecycle Collaboration) technology.

Supplier Management: It help organizations integrate and manage supply chain data within the Windchill environment.

Platform Structures: It helps organizations manage product variants efficiently by treating product designs as platforms. It enhances the ability to offer diverse product options while maintaining efficiency and quality.

Windchill PLM Functions:

CAD Data Management
Document Management
Release Management
Change Management
BOM Management
MFG Process Planning
Supplier Management
Collaboration
Visualization (Creo View Lite, Standard, MCAD, ECAD)

Windchill Key features include:

Data Management:
- Manages all product-related data, including CAD files, specifications, and BOM (Bill of Materials), in a single repository accessible to the entire team.
Change and Configuration Management:
- Facilitates formalized workflows for engineering changes, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and traceability is maintained for compliance and quality standards.
Bill of Materials (BOM) Management:
- Manages complex product structures, providing support for BOM management across different product configurations and design variants.
- eBOM = Engineering BOM: Lists all parts and subassemblies necessary to build the product, including detailed engineering information like manufacturing tolerances, standards, and specifications.
- mBOM = Manufacturing BOM: Includes all parts and components from eBOM, plus additional information needed for manufacturing, such as processing steps, required machinery, and packaging requirements.
- sBOM = Service BOM: Details the serviceable parts of the product and information needed for repairs and maintenance.
- Each type of BOM serves a specific purpose and is used by different teams to ensure the product is designed, manufactured, and maintained effectively.
- When eBOM, mBOM, and sBOM structures are synchronized in real time via the Windchill digital threads, they critically inform a single source of truth that defines the product and transforms imagination into reality.
- Methods of Creating an eBOM: PSB (Product Structure Browser), Auto Associate, Import from spreadsheet, Save as.
Collaboration Tools:
- Enables secure, real-time collaboration among distributed teams, integrating version control to ensure everyone has access to the latest design revisions.
Quality & Compliance Management:
- Integrates quality control, document management, and compliance workflows to help organizations meet regulatory requirements and maintain high-quality standards.
Supplier and Project Management:
- Supports project tracking, task assignment, and communication with external partners, suppliers, and vendors for a unified product development ecosystem.

Windchill Objects

An object is a generic name for business data that is added to and managed in Windchill. Depending on the Windchill solution or solutions that you have installed, you will be working with different business objects, such as parts, documents, CAD documents, dynamic documents, baselines, attachments, notes, packages, change objects, and managed collections.

Key differences between a Creo part and a Windchill part

A "Creo part" refers to a 3D CAD model created within the Creo software, representing the geometric design of a component with features and parameters, while a "Windchill part" is a database entry within the Windchill PLM system that stores information about a physical component, including its attributes, relationships to other parts, and lifecycle data, essentially acting as a container for all information related to a part beyond just the CAD geometry itself; meaning a Windchill part can reference a Creo part as its primary design data.

Integration of Creo and Windchill

The integration of Creo and Windchill enables seamless collaboration between design and lifecycle management, allowing teams to:

Synchronize Data: Data created in Creo can be directly managed, shared, and tracked within Windchill, ensuring consistent updates and traceability.
Version Control: Both tools work together to ensure users always access the latest versions of designs, reducing errors and improving productivity.
Collaborate Across Teams: Windchill’s PLM tools enable designers, engineers, and other stakeholders to work from a common source of data, facilitating easier communication and decision-making.

Benefits of Using Creo and Windchill Together

Improved Efficiency: With streamlined workflows and centralized data, teams can develop products faster and with fewer errors.
Enhanced Collaboration: Teams can easily share data and collaborate, even across geographic locations.
Lifecycle Management: Comprehensive management of the entire product lifecycle, from design through production and maintenance.
Cost Reduction: With fewer design errors and optimized workflows, organizations can reduce costs in both development and production stages.

Together, PTC Creo and Windchill offer an end-to-end solution for mechanical design and lifecycle management, making them powerful tools in the product development process.

PTC Windchill Administration

Windchill System Administration

Calendar Management: Provide the ability to schedule non-working days and delegate work.
Adapters Administration: Manage life cycle templates state mapping for the Requirements Management integration with Integrity.
File Server Administration: Set up file server sites, vaults, and folders, create/update replication rules, and schedule replication sessions.
Import/Export Management: Manage the exchange of file data and metadata with other systems via XML files.
Info*Engine Administration: View, create and modify Info*Engine configuration entries.
Mapping Management: Manage mappings to be used during package import.
Personal Cabinets Administration: List the set of personal cabinets whose users have been deleted and delete those personal cabinets.
Windchill Performance Adviser: Configure and review data sent by Performance Adviser for PTC Windchill.
Windchill Diagnostic Tasks Scheduler: Provides the ability to schedule Windchill Diagnostic Utility tasks and automated repairing of data.
License Management: Provides ability to manage license with feature information.
- PTC Windchill Advanced License (ptc_wnc_advanced_named): Provides visibility to the capabilities associated with a PTC Windchill Advanced License.
- PTC Creo Data Management and Visualization (ptc_creo_dm_and_vis_named): Provides visibility to the capabilities associated with a PTC Creo Data Management and Visualization License.
- Run the "ptcstatus.bat" command at "C:\Program Files\PTC\Creo 10.0.7.0\Parametric\bin" to check the status of licenses and other system information.
Purge Management: Create and manage purge jobs.
Queue Management: Manage background queues and queue entries.
Server Status: Provides an overview of the status of key server processes.
- System Health Monitoring Tools
  • Server Status Page
  • Windchill Cache Statistics
  • Performance Feedback Settings
  • Log Levels
  • Log Comment
  • Log File Viewer
  • Persisted Log Events
  • Log Event Histogram
  • Method Context and Servlet Request Samples
  • Cluster-wide Stack Traces
  • Top SQL Sample Intervals
  • Java Process Information
  • Client User-Agent Usage
  • Export System Health/Performance Tables to Client
  • Export System Health/Performance Tables to Support
System Configuration Collector: Gather existing information from your Windchill environment and optionally send the gathered information to PTC Technical Support. The information that can be gathered includes logs, property files, XCONF files, generated reports, and other site-specific files that may be requested by Technical Support.
Task Delegate Administration: Create and manage task delegates and delegate repositories.
Worker Agent Administration: Display the status of WVS (Windchill Visualization Services) workers and allow you to start, stop and configure them.

Business Administration

Business Rules: View the business rules.
Business Administrative Change: Provides the ability to create a package of business administrative changes to use for exporting changes to a production Windchill system. Allows importing of business administrative changes from a Windchill system.
Indexing Administration: View the indexing status
Introduction to Numbering Schemes: View information on how to control numbers generated for objects.
Introduction to Versioning Schemes: View information on how to control identifiers generated for object versions.
Life Cycle Template Administration: Create and manage life cycle templates used for defining the phases and transitions of various business objects.
Object Initialization Rules Administration: Create and manage XML rules for object initialization that set default values for attributes and display characteristics that constrain attribute values.
Participant Administration: Support creation and modification of Windchill business objects describing users, groups, and organizations. See examples in the bottom pictures for adding/deleting a user.
Policy Administration: Manage administrative domains and the access control, indexing, and notification policies.
Preference Management: View and set preferences.
Promotion Preference Management: View, create, and edit promotion preferences.
Publish and Thumbnail Control: Controls WVS publishing.
Report Management: Create, update, and delete reports using the QueryBuilder tool. A report is the output of a predefined search and is used for generating statistics and metrics against business information.
Team Administration: Create and manage team templates. When creating a life cycle-managed object, you can use a team template as a base for the team participants throughout its life cycle.
Type and Attribute Management: Manage type definitions, attribute definitions, measurement systems, and quantities of measure. Users with the appropriate permissions can create, modify, or remove types or attributes. Additionally, users can configure display units for attributes, associate attribute definitions with type definitions, and constrain the values of those attributes.
View Administration: Create and manage a network of available product structure views.
Visualization Configuration Administration: Manage WVS configurations including Creo View preferences, watermarks, printer configurations, dynamic groups and publish rules.
Workflow Template Administration: Create and manage workflow templates used for automating processes, in which information, tasks, and documents are passed among participants, within the context of specific business objects.
Workflow Process Administration: Search for workflow processes and view activity and task level details. Restart stalled workflows, terminate or delete workflows.
WVS Job Monitor: View the status of WVS Jobs.
WVS Job Scheduler Administration: Create and execute WVS jobs.

Auditing Administration

Audit Log Purge Management: View the audit log purge history and create a job to purge audit records.
Audit Log Purge Scheduler: View the Audit Log Purge Scheduler, to purge the audit records.
Usage and License Reporting: View usage and license reports.
Security Audit Report Queries: View security audit report queries.
Security Audit Reporting: Create and view security audit reports and save report queries.

Cloud Configuration

Office Online System Configuration: System Configuration Assistant for Office Online integration.

Windchill Extension Center

The Windchill Extensions add new functions and features to your Windchill systems, helping you maximize the value of your PLM systems. Each extension can be installed quickly and easily using PTC Windchill Extension Installer and comes with full support and upgrades.

Setting up "Windchill Workgroup Manager" (MCAD Data Manager for Creo)

PTC Creo Data Management and Visualization (ptc_creo_dm_and_vis_named).
It is a common framework that provides an integration between Windchill and a variety of CAD applications.
It enables a number of key PDM commands, such as Check In and Check Out.

Setting up "Members By Role"

Products -> Team -> Members -> Select "Members By Role"
Common Parts Library -> Team -> Members -> Select "Members By Role"
Assign the "New User" to Groups:
- CAD Author
- PTC Windchill Advanced License
- Need to allocate the license of "Windchill Creo Data Management & Visualization".

Integrating Windchill with Creo

Creo: File -> Manage Session -> Server Management -> Server -> Register New Server -> Provide the server "Name" and "Location". Server Name: "SVC-PDM1" (Example). Location: http://svc-pdm1."company domain".local/Windchill.

Windchill Options and Variants Capabilities

Utilities -> Preference Management -> Options and Variants: By default, the Configurable Modules Support preference is set to No. You need to set it to Yes to use the Options and Variants functionality.
Windchill provides the capabilities to create and update variants of the product by using the configuration process, which allows you to apply filtering criteria and selection logic to reduce an overloaded product structure to the appropriate configuration.
Options and Choices
Setting up Configurable Product Structures

Windchill Member Roles Common Library.png

PTC Tips & Tricks

Notes for PTC Tips & Tricks (BKM)

1. Creo System Information Check: File -> Help -> System Information -> System Information or Hardware Check

2. Creo Server management

Clear cache: File -> Manage Session -> Server management -> Cache -> Clear
Work offline: File -> Manage Session -> Server management -> Server -> Work Offline

3. Windchill BOM Export: In Creo/Windchill integrated environment, switch from "Navigation Trees" to "Folder Browse".

Select Active Workspace (e.g. "JackChenSpace") -> Select an "X.ASM" item -> Click "View information" -> Click Tab "Structure" -> Select "Single Level Report" or "Multilevel Report" from the "Reports" Menu -> Click "Structure views" and then "Manage Structure Views" to specify the desired output format (such as Part Number, Description, Quantity, Unit, Version, etc.) -> Select "Export List to CVS" (recommended for its simplicity) or other output file format.

4. Setting up Creo "config.pro"

C:\Program Files\PTC\Creo 10.0.7.0\Common Files\text\config.pro
Creo: File -> Options -> Options -> Configuration Editor
Example: To adopt "Glow" feature by adding/setting "enable_selection_glow"=YES.

5. Creo Merge/Inheritance: In an assembly, right-click on a part as a source, then select "Get Data > Merge/Inheritance".

In PTC Creo, the "Merge/Inheritance" function allows you to incorporate the geometry from one part into another, essentially creating a new part with features from a source part, where you can choose to either simply merge the geometry without modification ("Merge") or inherit the features and modify specific aspects of them within the new part ("Inheritance") depending on your needs; this is particularly useful for scenarios like creating a machined part based on a cast part where you want to retain the overall geometry but make specific adjustments for machining operations.

6. Edit Materials for parts

Creo: Click the part name with right mouse button and then select "Edit Materials", as shown in the bottom pictures.
OEM parts: Select the desired Material from: Commonspace -> Libraries -> Common Parts Library -> Materials.
Assign or change Materials for family table driven parts in Creo: Start with the generic part. Click the "Design Items" and expand the default list of "Materials" and then select the desired Material with right mouse button and then select "Set as Master".

7. Assign "Material" or "PTC_Master_Material" as a parameter for driving a family table in Creo

If "Material" is not a locked parameter via "Relation":
- Go to "Design" > "Parameters" and create a new parameter named "Material".
- For the "Material" parameter, choose a "Text" data type.
- Open the Family Table editor by navigating to "Design" > "Family Table".
- In the Family Table, add a new column and label it "Material".
- In each row of the Family Table, enter the desired material name within the "Material" column.
If "Material" is a locked parameter, then use "PTC_Master_Material" (an unlocked User-Defined parameter) to drive the family table.

8. Create an ECN (Engineering Change Notice) in Windchill

Navigate to the relevant product structure in Windchill, then select "New Change Notice" from the Actions menu; this will open a form where you can input details about the change, including the affected parts, description of the change, and necessary approvals, following the defined workflow within your Windchill system.

Access the product structure
Initiate a new change notice
Fill in the details
Attach relevant documents.
Submit for review and approval.

9. Update a revised drawing with a new Revision.

Life Cycle State: In Work - Prototype - Released - Obsolete - Under Review - Verification Required.
Within Windchill reviewer user account, approve the promotion that will advance the drawing State from "In Work" to "Released".
Within Windchill Admin account, search and find the new drawing number ; Select the drawing number; Click "Actions" and then choose "Revise" to put the drawing and associated Dependents ("Required" parts) back to "In Work" State. Update the Revision of all the related objects to the desired Revision, such as from "1" to "2". Click "Set in State" to advance all the related objects back to "Released" State. All the above sequential operations will result in the desired Revision on the drawing Revision Block.

10. Article - CS336999: Unresponsive time

Unresponsive time when switching between large assembly and drawing and the active window returns to the original window in Creo Parametric. Workarounds:

Set http://config.pro; Options:
- Set "auto_regen_views" to the value "no" which also fixes or improves the performance issue.
- Set "activate_window_automatically" to the value "no" which disables the "Activate on Focus" behaviour.
Switch (via the taskbar) to a non-Creo window, then switch (still via the taskbar) to the desired Creo window.

11. Setting up Mapkeys

Creating a mapkey in PTC Creo can significantly streamline your workflow by automating repetitive tasks.
Open Creo Parametric: Type "Mapkeys" in the Command Search window, or go to File > Options > Global > Environment > Mapkeys Settings... (New, Edit, Run, Delete, Save).
Example 1: "tp" that adds customised parameters onto the standard list of parameters.
Example 2: "qp" that prints out a centralized B-Size PDF drawing ( see next section).
Add Mapkeys to the "Common (Custom)" Ribbon: File > Options > Customize > Ribbon > Filter Commands "Mapkeys" > Adding "Mapkeys" under "Common (Custom)".

12. Creo drawing print-out to selected B-Size PDF format:

Select the "B Size (17" x 11")" and "Fit to Window".
Select 0.25" Offset for both X and Y origins to centralize the drawing.
Select "Adobe Print" with Color "Black & White", Page Size "11 x 17", and Orientation "Landscape".

13. Assembly

Flexible Components
Component Interface
Search for all Hidden Components

14. Creo ModelCHECK Overview

Creo: File -> Prepare -> ModelCHECK Interactive
Analyzes parts, drawings, and assemblies.
Verifies compliance with standards and proper Creo Parametric modeling techniques and immediately flags modeling violations.
Presents the results of the analysis and recommends improvements in the form of a dynamic HTML report. The Creo ModelCHECK report appears in the browser embedded in Creo Parametric.
Promotes the use of standard design practices to improve the effectiveness of downstream users and design reuse.

Each check has the following options:

Y - Runs the check
N - Does not run the check
E - Displays an error message if the check fails
W - Displays a warning if the check fails

Ensure that the modelcheck_enabled configuration option in the Creo Parametric config.pro configuration file is set to yes. This is the default. To run "ModelCHECK Rule Check", the parameter "RC_MODEL_TYPE" must be set to process rule.

15. Shortcut Keys and Mouse Functions

Keyboard shortcuts

CTRL+Left-Mouse-Button: Dynamic pan
CTRL+Middle-Mouse-Button: Dynamic rotate
CTRL+Right-Mouse-Button: Dynamic zoom

ALT Key Menu

Press ALT key once while working in any environment of Creo Parametric. The key tips will be displayed; press desired key from keyboard to activate the respective option.

Mouse functions

Click: Selects a part or geometry
Click and drag: Selects all parts or geometries within a bounding box
Right-click and drag: Flies in or out
Middle-click and drag: Rotates the structure
Press SHIFT+middle-click and drag: Pans
Press CTRL+middle-click and drag: Zooms in or out

3D mouse functions

The center of rotation is calculated automatically based on the object view
The center of rotation changes as you zoom in
You can set a new center of rotation using your 2D mouse

PTC CAD Admin To-Do List

Managing a PTC Creo and Windchill environment requires a comprehensive approach to ensure both systems operate seamlessly and efficiently. Below is a detailed PTC Creo and Windchill CAD Admin To-Do List categorized into daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual tasks. This list is designed to help you maintain, optimize, and support your CAD environment effectively. By adhering to this comprehensive to-do list, you can effectively manage your PTC Creo and Windchill environments, ensuring they remain reliable, efficient, and aligned with your organization's goals and standards.

Daily Tasks

System Health Monitoring
- Creo:
  - Ensure Creo servers and workstations are operational.
  - Monitor Creo application performance and responsiveness.
- Windchill:
  - Verify Windchill servers are up and running.
  - Check Windchill services (e.g., workflow engine, database connectivity) for any issues.
User Support and Issue Resolution
- Creo:
  - Assist users with Creo-related issues such as installation, configuration, and usage problems.
  - Address any errors or crashes reported by users.
- Windchill:
  - Resolve user access issues, data retrieval problems, and workflow interruptions.
  - Support users with check-in/check-out procedures and version control.
  - Review and process pending tasks frequently such as approving pending promotion requests.
Data Integrity and Quality Checks
- Windchill:
  - Perform routine checks to ensure data consistency and integrity within the PDM/PLM system.
  - Identify and rectify any data conflicts, duplication, or discrepancies.
Security Monitoring
- Windchill:
  - Monitor for unauthorized access attempts or security breaches.
  - Ensure that data access complies with organizational policies.

Weekly Tasks

Backup and Recovery Verification
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Confirm that automated backups for both Creo projects and Windchill databases have completed successfully.
  - Verify the integrity of backups by performing random restoration tests.
System Performance Monitoring and Optimization
- Creo:
  - Analyze system performance metrics (CPU, memory, disk usage) on Creo workstations and servers.
  - Optimize settings to enhance Creo performance based on usage patterns.
- Windchill:
  - Monitor server load, response times, and database performance.
  - Tweak configurations to maintain optimal Windchill performance.
User Access and Permission Management
- Windchill:
  - Review and update user roles, groups, and permissions to ensure appropriate access levels.
  - Onboard new users and offboard departing employees by managing their Windchill accounts.
- Creo:
  - Ensure users have the necessary licenses and access rights to use Creo features.
Maintenance of CAD Templates and Libraries
- Creo:
  - Update and manage Creo templates, styles, and libraries based on user feedback and project requirements.
  - Ensure consistency in design standards across all projects.
- Windchill:
  - Maintain and organize libraries and shared resources within Windchill to support Creo workflows.

Monthly Tasks

Software Updates and Patch Management
- Creo:
  - Check for and apply the latest Creo updates, service packs, and patches.
  - Test updates in a controlled environment before deploying to all users.
- Windchill:
  - Apply Windchill updates, patches, and hotfixes.
  - Ensure compatibility between Windchill and Creo versions.
License Management
- Creo:
  - Monitor Creo license usage to ensure compliance and availability.
  - Reallocate licenses as needed and address any licensing issues.
- Windchill:
  - Manage Windchill-related licenses, if applicable, and ensure they are up to date.
User Training and Documentation
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Conduct training sessions for new users or provide advanced training for existing users.
  - Update and maintain documentation, including user guides, best practices, and troubleshooting manuals.
Data Cleanup and Archiving
- Windchill:
  - Identify and archive obsolete or inactive data to streamline the Windchill database.
  - Clean up unused files and ensure efficient data storage practices.
- Creo:
  - Organize and archive old Creo files to maintain a clutter-free workspace.

Quarterly Tasks

Audit and Compliance Checks
- Windchill:
  - Perform compliance audits to ensure data management practices align with company policies and industry standards.
  - Verify that all design revisions, approvals, and workflows are properly documented.
- Creo:
  - Audit Creo usage to ensure adherence to licensing agreements and internal standards.
System Optimization and Upgrades Planning
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Review system performance and identify areas for improvement.
  - Plan and schedule hardware or software upgrades to enhance system capabilities.
Workflow and Process Review
- Windchill:
  - Assess current workflows for efficiency and effectiveness.
  - Collaborate with engineering teams to identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements or automation where possible.
- Creo:
  - Evaluate Creo workflows and integration points with Windchill to ensure seamless operations.
Security Reviews
- Windchill:
  - Conduct security assessments to identify vulnerabilities.
  - Update security protocols and implement necessary measures to protect sensitive data.

Annual Tasks

Long-Term Planning and Budgeting
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Assess the current and future needs of the CAD environment.
  - Develop a comprehensive budget covering software licenses, hardware upgrades, training programs, and other related expenses.
User Feedback and System Improvement
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Gather feedback from users through surveys or meetings to understand their needs and challenges.
  - Plan and implement system enhancements based on user input to improve usability and productivity.
CAD Standards and Best Practices Review
- Creo:
  - Review and update Creo standards, templates, and libraries to align with industry best practices and organizational requirements.
- Windchill:
  - Ensure that Windchill processes and data management practices support the updated CAD standards.
Disaster Recovery Plan Testing
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Test the disaster recovery plan to ensure that both Creo and Windchill environments can be restored quickly in the event of a failure.
  - Update the disaster recovery plan based on insights gained from testing and any changes in the system infrastructure.
Compliance and Licensing Audits
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Conduct comprehensive audits to ensure all software licenses are compliant with vendor agreements.
  - Address any discrepancies and ensure proper documentation is maintained.
Performance Benchmarking
- Creo & Windchill:
  - Benchmark system performance against industry standards or previous metrics.
  - Identify trends and plan for scalability to accommodate growing user bases or project sizes.

Best Practices and Tips

Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all administrative tasks, changes, and configurations to facilitate troubleshooting and onboarding of new administrators.
Automation: Where possible, automate routine tasks such as backups, monitoring, and reporting to reduce manual effort and minimize errors.
Communication: Regularly communicate with users and stakeholders to stay informed about their needs, upcoming projects, and any potential issues that may affect the CAD environment.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest features, updates, and best practices for both Creo and Windchill by participating in training sessions, webinars, and user communities.
Security: Implement robust security measures, including regular password updates, access controls, and encryption, to protect sensitive design data and intellectual property.

General CAD Admin To-Do List

Here's a general to-do list for a CAD Administrator to help manage and maintain a CAD environment effectively. This list can be customized based on your specific setup and needs.

Become the Expert
Knowing the company’s products and processes is helpful, but knowing the tools is more important. To become an internally recognized CAD Admin, start by becoming the go-to person for tech support and be ready to take on any support task, including installation, keeping track of serial numbers, copying settings, standardizing libraries and more.

The best place to start is by getting your CAD system in order. Your company’s product development starts with CAD and the product development process spends a lot of time in the CAD software. Making sure the usefulness of the CAD process output is maximized at every point downstream will go a long way to making the process work better—and may even give some unexpected results, such as happier and more productive employees.

Tech Support
Tech support can be a frustrating, time consuming, thankless and stressful job that involves as much application of psychology as it does technical knowledge. This is why one of the primary requirements for someone who wants the CAD Admin job is someone who is a natural helper and problem solver. Patience is a primary requirement because users often present a misdiagnosis. Their problems are vaguely described—something is usually happening, but often the problem is not what they think it is. You will have to start from the symptoms and work back to the causes on your own.

Tech support works best when you have some history of problems you solved, including who brought the problem to you and other details such as how the issue was resolved. You need this for several reasons. There may be a pattern with a user, a machine or a process that you need to establish in order to get intervention from another source such as the software vendor, reseller or management. Personnel issues can come into play, and your records can help a manager evaluate the performance of employees. You may at some point need to justify bringing in a consultant, or a new piece of software or hardware. Records of problems and solutions can be helpful in justifying expenses to management, or help explain why you may need to pass the job on to another person.

Libraries
One of the lowest-hanging fruit for a CAD Admin is to standardize libraries. Avoid mapped drives, and instead use UNC (Universal Naming Convention) paths direct to the central server (i.e., the \\server\library_folder). Libraries can be created for all sorts of things, from templates and hardware to common sketches, blocks, sheet metal features, special holes and many more. Every time you reuse library data and avoid redrawing something, you save time and money.

Libraries also increase accuracy and uniformity in designs. Reusing verified, accurate data means fewer mistakes down the line. It means better manufacturing results. Libraries are one of the unsung heroes of standardization and automation in design. A PDM vault can be used like a library with the added benefits of search, keywords, properties and more.

PDM
If your company does not have PDM (product data management), getting PDM in place should be a high priority. The process of implementing a PDM system will help you get several parts of your process standardized. Everything from file names, part numbers and revision schemes through to release process, change process and meta data/properties, keywords and searchability.

You may have a small department and think your Windows Explorer-based file management process works—but implement PDM, and you will see big benefits. PDM does not have to be elaborate from the start; Instead, it should be something you can grow with. You do not have to implement all the fancy features (such as ERP integration) but they should be available when you are ready for them.

One of the biggest benefits is that PDM can unify several disjointed parts of your company. PDM allows purchasing to peer at engineering information without having duplicate information created for them. Manufacturing can also use PDM to see engineering parts and processes for their purpose.

Standards
CAD standards have long been the cornerstone of the CAD Admin role. CAD standards can take on many forms and they can include much more than just drawings. Many companies implement best practice recommendations for part and assembly models, as well as for more complex CAD processes including surfacing and multibody use. Standards make sure that drawings and other documentation can be interpreted consistently. Standards for 3D parts also ensure that the parts are easy to edit by any user in your organization and that they react to change predictably.

Remember that best practices are generally thought of as suggestions, not hard rules. Standards and best practice need to go hand in hand with training and tech support. CAD standards can be like a religion to some people and making changes to the standards is not something to be taken lightly. Changes should get a blessing from the power users. Don’t stray too far away from industry standards. Highly non-standard drawings can be tough for people outside of your organization to read and interpret.

Training
CAD Admins will often write and deliver their own training based on company standards, best practices and workflow processes. But many also bring in reseller trainers or consultants. Customized training can be more expensive, but sending a group of people out of town is likely to cost even more. A highly experienced CAD consultant is often someone who worked at a reseller for several years and has broken away to work for themselves. Searching out these consultants can help you with creating training that is specific to your company. You may also want to incorporate training for GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) or MBD (Model-Based Definition), or for a specialized process-based design such as plastics or sheet metal.

Related to training is mentoring. The best CAD Admins are bringing someone up along with them. Identify people who have the interest and ability to develop into power users and employ them as assistants to extend your capacity. The best leaders are always training their replacements.

Tool Selection
If your company is growing, you may get the opportunity to evaluate, select and implement new engineering tools. Changing CAD software can be one of the most challenging tasks assigned to a CAD Admin. This is a situation where emotions can be a big obstacle.

Selecting new software can get political. Users will each have their favorite—often the software they are most used to working with. New employees may have used other CAD systems than the ones at your company. It is no longer about how fast you can draw a line, but about the relationship with the vendor or reseller. Does the software offer a path for growth? How often are we going to have to migrate our CAD files to a new system? Can we find employees that already use this software?

Partnership with Reseller or Vendor
Training and tech support often come from a reseller or vendor. These relationships are sometimes fraught with concerns, as selecting a reseller can be as important as the software you ultimately select. Does the reseller have a high turnover rate? How much experience do the trainers and support techs have? Does the company have senior, qualified experts? What happens when you have to escalate an issue? Do the salespeople shield you from the technical resources? Do they have all the communication options that you think should be available?

Partnership with IT
Much of the work that you can do as a CAD Admin involves areas under the jurisdiction of the IT department. In this case, it is vital to develop a good working relationship with IT. At the very least, you need to understand how the network is set up, the shared areas on servers, how the company keeps track of software licenses, and be able to install software and access library areas and the PDM server, if you have one. Bringing an IT person to PDM training can be a great idea. They may also include you on database or network training. The importance of this relationship and cooperation cannot be overstated.

Change Logs
If you are a CAD Admin with other responsibilities such as design or documentation, it is especially important to keep a record of changes that were done to settings, processes, servers, networks and software installations. IT may require this kind of record keeping, and when you have multiple software packages interacting on data over networks, there are many factors that can affect one another. Relying on your memory is opening the door for complex problems to creep in and be difficult to troubleshoot.

Process Workflow
If part of your task involves implementing a PDM system with a workflow component, you must ensure that you understand the existing product development, design and documentation processes at your company. A good way to do this is to interview people involved at each part of the process and develop a flow chart that shows the decision-making process of a design from the initial stages of proposing new products through the field-servicing of products. You can’t make changes until you agree on where you are in the process.

This often uncovers disagreements about how the existing process is supposed to work and gives you an opportunity to make changes and ensure everyone is on the same page with internal processes. Digitizing the process often creates opportunities to streamline the process and possibly eliminate some steps. Automating processes through PDM allows for greater efficiency, better traceability and reduces clutter.

Summary
The CAD Admin to-do list is long and requires many skills outside of the normal skill set of engineers, designers and CAD operators. The position requires the ability to prioritize and cajole, to get the attention of management and to gain the trust of users. This is the opening article in a series that will take us through the various aspects of becoming a CAD Admin and growing that position into something greater. Managing engineering technology can be a rewarding career field, but it is also a great deal of work that requires expertise (or at least good instincts) in a wide range of disciplines, some technical and some non-technical, such as finance, business and psychology.

Pro/Engineer Family Tree (Table)

To effectively use the Pro/Engineer Family Tree feature (also known as "Family Table" in Creo Parametric), create a generic model with key parameters, then use the Family Table to define variations of that model by changing parameter values across multiple instances, allowing you to generate a family of related parts or assemblies with minimal manual adjustments, ideal for creating different sizes or configurations of the same design.

Key steps for using the Family Tree effectively:

Create a generic model:
- Start by modeling the base design with all the essential features, including dimensions that will be used as parameters in the Family Table.
Identify key parameters:
- Determine which dimensions or features should be variable across different instances of your design and define them as parameters in the model.
Access the Family Table:
- Go to "Tools > Family Table" to open the Family Table editor.
Add columns to the table:
- In the Family Table, add columns for each parameter you want to vary, including names and data types (numeric, text, etc.).
Create instances:
- Add rows to the table to represent each different variation of your design, and input the specific parameter values for each instance.
Apply relations (if necessary):
- Establish relationships between parameters to ensure changes in one parameter automatically update related dimensions or features.
Verify and regenerate:
- Use the "Verify Instances" function to check for potential conflicts in your Family Table and then regenerate the model to create all the different variations.

Important considerations for efficient Family Tree usage:

Clear naming conventions:
- Use descriptive names for parameters and instances to easily understand the Family Table structure.
Organize complex designs:
- For intricate assemblies, consider creating sub-family tables to manage different levels of variation within the design.
Use design intent:
- Model with good design intent by using relations to ensure changes in parameters automatically update the geometry as intended.
Document variations:
- When creating documentation like drawings, use the Family Table to automatically generate different views based on the selected instance.

IT Admin Tools