Help With Subordinate UDF

[78finn]

I need some help with being able to setup & edit a Subordinate UDF.

The aim:

1. Create a part containing a master sketch / extrusion profile.
2. Reference the master sketch / profile using a subordinate UDF.
3. Use the UDF in other parts.
4. Update the original master sketch / UDF and have all other parts update automatically.

I am really struggling to get this to work.

Currently I am creating a new part (Part A), with a 2D sketch of an extrusion profile. I then create a Subordinate UDF, selecting the sketch as the feature and a coordinate system / number of planes as my ref points.

I then create a new part (Part B) and import the UDF into the part. I select "Make features dependent on dimensions of UDF" and place the UDF into the new part.

I now go back to the original Part A (with part B still open) and adjust the extrusion profile (changing a few dimensions).

I go back to Part B, regenerate and nothing happens? The UDF in Part B does not update and reflect the change made to the master sketch profile in Part B?

Can anyone tell me what I am doing wrong? Your help would be very much appreciated!

 

[78finn]

OK, I sort of have it working now.

The trouble I am having is actually getting Part B (the slave) to update properly.

If I change a dimension in the Part A / UDF and then regen Part B, nothing happens.

Instead I have to change the dimension in the Part A / UDF, save & close. Then reopen Part A & B, regenerate the CAD and Part B updates to reflect the change in Part A / UDF.

Is everyone having this experience? It seems very clunky?

I'm running Creo 2.0

 

[srieger]

Sounds to me like something that would be better off with a Layout.

 

[78finn]

Sounds to me like something that would be better off with a Layout.

Hi Scott,

Thanks for the reply!

I haven't worked with layout before. Can you quickly give me a run down on how I might go about doing what I have outlined using layout? It would be really helpful!

Thanks!

 

[srieger]

Well, it has been a while. The basics are that you create common geometry, parameters, dimension information, etc. in a layout. You designate the layout for a model and create references to the layout parameters and dimensions. You may be able to find some printed data online with more specifics. I think it's a great way to do what it sounds like you are trying to do. Family tables could be an option but sounds like parts may be too dis-similar. Another option may be Inheritance features. UDFs are best for creating similar features like center-drilled holes, common shapes like louvers, common feature groups that are used across parts, etc.

I could be not fully understanding what you are doing as well. But it sounds to me like you may be using the wrong tool for what you want to accomplish.