Using a Topology Map

Topology Map lets you generate a 2D representation of a mechanism or sub-mechanism displaying its components and their connections.

This task shows you how to:

Before you begin: Create a mechanism representation or macro-mechanism, and define it as current.
Note: You can only generate a topology map for the current mechanism.

 

See Also
More help on this topic
About Topology Maps
Creating Mechanism Representations

Display the Topology Map

Select the topology map layout.
OptionDescription
Reference Displays the components in levels and sublevels.

The product connected to the most joints appears as the root node. The other components are displayed in sublevels.

Note: The reference layout is selected by default.
Grid Displays the components according to a matrix shape.

The matrix shape is based on the square root value of the total number of nodes.

Spring Groups the components together.

Drag the components to modify the layout of the topology map.


Add Constraints

  1. Select a product or joint in the panel.
    The component is highlighted in the work area and in the tree.
  2. On the context toolbar, select the constraint to create.

    Note: The number of commands available depends on the selected component.

    The constraint appears in the topology map and in the tree.