Exploding a Product

atarget.gif (1372 bytes) This task illustrates the use of the Explode capability. Exploding the view of an assembly means separating the components of this assembly to see their relationships.
At any time though, you can check the product structure via the specification tree. The explode capability allows you fully to understand the product structure in a 3D context.
aprereq.gif (1223 bytes) The CHAINSAW.CATProduct document is opened.

  1. Select Product1 in the specification tree.

  2. Click Explode .

    The Explode dialog box and the Manipulation toolbar are displayed.
    Product 1 is the assembly to be exploded. The Depth parameter lets you choose between a totally (All levels) or partially (First level) exploded view.

  3. Set the Depth field to All levels, if that is not its current value.

  4. Set the Type field to 3D, if that is not its current value.

    You can now generate a sequence from the exploded view, all you need to do is click the Generate Sequence checkbox before launching the explode operation.
    For more detailed information refer to Generating a Sequence from an Exploded View

  5. Click Apply to perform the operation.

    The Scroll Explode field gradually displays the progression of the operation. The application assigns directions and distances. Once complete, the assembly looks like this:
    The interest of this operation lies in the ability of viewing all components separately.
    You can easily move products within the exploded view using the 3D compass.
     

  6. Click Apply to confirm the operation or click Cancel to restore the initial view.