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Creating Flex Cable Routes

To create flex cable routes:

  1. Insert the first flex cable connector into the assembly.
    The following occurs:
    • A 3D sketch opens in a new route subassembly.
    • The new route subassembly is created, and appears in the FeatureManager design tree as [Flex cablen-assembly_name] .
    • A stub of flex cable appears, extending from the connector you just placed.

  2. Insert the second flex cable connector.
    All sketch tools are available when you create and edit flex cable routes. To use the sketch tools, open the flex cable assembly and right-click in the graphics area. You can add or delete segments, and add or delete dimensions.
  3. Define the path of the flex cable with Auto Route:
    1. In the Auto Route PropertyManager, under Routing Mode, select Auto Route.
    2. Select the point at the end of the route stub on the first connector.
    3. Select the point at the end of the route stub on the second connector.
      The software creates a route between the two connectors.
  4. To modify the twists in the cable, under Auto Route, select Edit (drag), and then drag the construction lines on the spline.
    When Auto Route is disabled, you can modify the twists in the cable by clicking on the triad manipulators available on the route path at the base of the construction line. You can extend the route using Z axis and add twist by rotating the ring in the triad manipulator.
  5. You can optionally do one of the following:
    • Add flat bends in the routes by inserting a line at an angle, in the same plane.
    • Set the cable thickness, cable width, alignment direction, and stub length in the Connection Point PropertyManager.
  6. Click .
    The 3D sketch closes. The following appear in the FeatureManager design tree of the route subassembly:
    • Components folder. Contains the connector parts you placed in the route.
    • Route Parts folder. Contains the cable that was created as a virtual component when you exited the sketch.
    • Route feature. Contains the 3D sketch that defines the path of the cable.
    To edit an existing route, right-click it and click Edit Route.
    Flex cable curved
    Flex cable flattened


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