Model-Based Definition (MBD) documents the information needed to build and verify a component or assembly in a 3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) model instead of a 2D production drawing. Product manufacturing information (PMI) such as dimensions, tolerances, notes, symbols, and surface finishes are recorded as 3D annotations. Model geometry and surfaces related to annotations are kept as semantic references, so production and inspection equipment can read them.

Every edition of Creo adds additional capability to simplify MBD and comply with ASME and ISO requirements. Let’s compare MBD in Creo’s latest six editions.

Creo 4 (2016)

Definition Semantic. Surfaces, planes, and axes can be semantic references for dimensions, Datum Feature Symbols, Geometric Tolerances, and Datum Targets.

Workflow Streamlining. Dimension, Datum Feature Symbol, and Geometric Tolerance procedures were simplified. Datum Feature Symbols and Geometric Tolerances can be produced as Annotation Elements.

Semantic PMI with AP 242. STEP is a neutral standard for sharing CAD data. Creo 4 can export and import 3D STEP annotations.

Advisor GD&T.Sigmetrix’s GD&T Advisor helps define Geometric Tolerances. It verifies your model’s ASME and ISO compliance and ultimately constrained geometry.

Creo 5 (2018)

Semantic Query. Selecting an Annotation Element reveals its semantic references.

Annotation conversion. This utility converts previous set datums into GD&T Datum Feature Symbols while keeping geometric tolerances.

Improved Annotation UX. Creo 5 included Mini Toolbars for annotations, Undo/Redo, and clearer error messages.

Creo 6 (2019)

Modernized Annotation. Notes’ creation and editing operations were improved. Semantic references are stored.

Annotation improvements. Annotation Elements can be transferred across features without editing.

Improved annotations. Copy Geometry can propagate stacked Annotation Elements during generation. Annotations, references, and merged states are now checked.

Creo 7 (2020)

ISO and ASME compliance updated. You can syntax verify model or drawing tolerances using 2 ISO or 2 ASME standards.

Modernized TOA. Creo EZ Tolerance Analysis superseded the 1D Tolerance Analysis Extension.

Creo 8 (2021)

Symbol modernization. Custom symbol insertion and editing now use more intuitive ribbon tabs. The new gallery layout displays the symbols. One removable panel customizes symbols.

Advanced semantic surface collection. 3D Annotations can cover many model surfaces. Previously, they were chosen individually. Advanced surface collection techniques, including loop surfaces, seed and boundary, and intent surfaces, can be used in Creo 8 to define semantic surface sets.

Advisor GD&T. This programmer now works with assemblies. GD&T Advisor’s Matched Annotations tool lets you examine, implement, or skip modifications.

Creo 9 (2022)

Resurfacing. Surface finishes feature new tabs for positioning and editing, a gallery for selection, and a detachable panel for customizing options and changeable text.

Surface finish standard symbols. ASME Y14.36-2018, ISO 1302:2002, and ISO 25178:2016 feature new surface finish symbols.

Parameters. Symbol definitions can include parameter names. When a symbol is instantiated, its arguments are produced. These settings may be supplied to Windchill at check-in. Weld symbols use this feature so that Windchill MPMLink may access parameters.

For more details about MBD in Creo, visit CreoTek India.