Within Pro/ENGINEER Detail mode you can create symbols that include pre-defined groups of text, lines, etc. These make the drafting job easier by simplifying drawing creation.

Click here to download the sample symbol for this article.

In this example I’ll explain how to create a surface finish symbol that allows you to pick from a range of metric and imperial tolerances…

The principles apply to any kind of drawing symbol – use your imagination!

• Start by creating the basic fixed geometry: in this case it’s the outline of the surface finish symbol.

• Add a typical tolerance value.

• Copy this note for each separate option you want to provide, eg:

• Next – it’s time to define the groups.
  • Groups | Create
  • Enter name, eg: METRIC
  • Add the metric notes to this group.

• Ensure the Group Attribute is set to “Exclusive”.
  (This means each option is unique.)

• Using the Change Level and Create commands, you can add layers of options to the symbol.
  In this case, we’ll make metric & imperial groups with their own selection of tolerances.

• Place every note on top of the original, so they will all be in the correct position.
  (Note – another way to do this is to Copy/Translate with an offset of zero. Then modify each note using Query Select.)

• Set the symbol attributes:
  Placement Type (Free or Normal to Entity)
  Instance height (Variable - Drawing Units)

• Add any other finishing touches before completing the symbol and writing to disk.

• When you insert the symbol, you are presented with these options:

You can use this technique to create a range of symbols for everyday use. Combine similar symbols into one file, and give users the option to switch between them. The only limit is your imagination.

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