Entering and exiting the Sketch module

You can enter the Sketch module at any time during an Abaqus/CAE session by clicking Sketch in the Module list located in the context bar. The Sketch module tools appear in the module toolbox, and the Sketch menu appears on the main menu bar.

To exit the Sketch module, first exit the current drawing tool by clicking mouse button 2. Then click the Done button that appears in the prompt area, and select any other module from the Module list. You need not take any specific action to save your sketches before exiting the module; they are saved automatically when you save the entire model by selecting FileSave or FileSave As from the main menu bar.

You should recognize the difference between the Sketch module and the Sketcher. When you create or edit a stand-alone sketch, the Sketch module starts the Sketcher and displays the Sketcher tools in the module toolbox. In addition, Abaqus/CAE starts the Sketcher whenever you do one of the following:

  • Create or edit a feature while defining a part in the Part module.

  • Sketch a partition on a face or cell while working in the Part module.

  • Sketch a partition on a face or cell in the assembly while working in the Assembly module or the Mesh module.

To exit the Sketcher and incorporate your sketch into the part or assembly, first exit the current drawing tool by clicking mouse button 2. Then, click the Done button that appears in the prompt area. Where applicable, follow any additional prompts to extrude, revolve, or sweep the feature. Abaqus/CAE exits the Sketcher and returns to the module that invoked it. In addition, Abaqus/CAE restores the original view of the part or assembly.