18 - Creating Datums in OpenPlant Modeler

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating datums on custom equipment using OpenPlant Modeler. Datums are essential for accurately placing components like nozzles, ensuring your designs are precise and well-structured.

Step 1: Access the Nozzle Manager

• Open OpenPlant Modeler.
• Navigate to the "Equipment" ribbon menu.
• Click on "Nozzle Manager" to open the command.

Step 2: Select Custom Equipment

• In the Nozzle Manager, choose the specific piece of custom equipment you are working on.

Step 3: Open the Datum Manager

• Click on the icon labeled “Open Datum Manager” to access the tools for creating datums.

Step 4: Add Datum Points

• Click on the “Add Datum” button.

• Follow the prompts located in the lower left-hand corner of the interface.

• Define the first datum point (origin):

  • Left-click to select the first point.
  • Toggle the axis to "T" for the top plane.

• Define subsequent datum points:

  • Click on the corner for the second point.
  • Click on the upper right-hand corner for the third point.

• Enter a name for your datum.

Tips for Datum Points

• The points you define will create a blue line representing the Z axis and a red line representing the Y axis.
• You can add as many datum points as needed for your design.

Step 5: Use Datum Points to Place Nozzles

• Select the “Block Top” type orientation in the nozzle placement settings.
• Choose the datum point you just created.
• Input the desired location for the nozzle.

Step 6: Configure Nozzle Specifications

• Change the specification and size of the nozzle as required.
• Once all parameters are set, click on the “Apply all changes” button.

Step 7: Review Nozzle Placement

• After applying changes, check the specification dialog to ensure the correct nozzle has been added.
• Note the orientation and placement of the nozzles based on your datum points:
  • For example, one nozzle may be 750 millimeters over and 1500 millimeters up.
  • Another nozzle may be oriented at 680 millimeters over and 650 millimeters up.

Conclusion

You have now successfully created datums on custom equipment and placed nozzles using OpenPlant Modeler. By following these steps, you can ensure precision in your designs. As a next step, consider experimenting with more complex configurations or integrating additional components into your model.