CAD user manual - Finn-Power International, Inc.

Finn-Power International 

710 Remington Road 

Schaumburg, IL 60173 

USA 

Tel. +1 800 344 7143 

Fax +1 847 885 3200 

www.finnpower.com 

Finn-Power Oy 

P.O. Box 38 

FIN-62201 Kauhava 

Finland 

Tel. + 358 6 428 2111 

Fax + 358 6 428 2244 

www.finn-power.com 

Edition 19.10.04/GB

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fully without prior written authorization by Lillbacka Corporation. 

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documentation are sole property of their respective owners. 

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exclusive information that are proprietary information and/or intellectual property of Finn-Power 

Group, protected under international copyright or similar laws and/or by patents or patents 

pending. Listed items are defined herein to include, but not limited to: components, features, 

modules, methods, software, systems, technology, options and the like. Further information of 

said patents and patents pending can be requested in writing from: 

Director of Engineering, Lillbacka Corporation, P.O. Box 38, 62201 Kauhava, Finland. 

2

INTRODUCTION _________________________________________________ 4 

1 GETTING AROUND ___________________________________________ 5 

1.1 Allow Selection _______________________________________________________________ 5 

1.1.1 Selecting Elements for Using Copy/Move Functions_________________________________ 5 

1.2 Lock Geometry _______________________________________________________________ 6 

1.3 Use ESC Key to Exit ___________________________________________________________ 6 

1.4 Selecting a CAD Function (Toolbars) _____________________________________________ 6 

1.5 Additional Features____________________________________________________________ 7 

1.6 Evaluator ____________________________________________________________________ 7 

2 CAD FUNCTIONS ____________________________________________ 9 

2.1 Lines ________________________________________________________________________ 9 

2.2 Arcs________________________________________________________________________ 10 

2.3 Circles______________________________________________________________________ 11 

2.4 Rectangles __________________________________________________________________ 12 

2.5 Notches _____________________________________________________________________ 12 

2.6 Trims ______________________________________________________________________ 13 

2.7 Move_______________________________________________________________________ 14 

2.8 Copy _______________________________________________________________________ 15 

2.9 Measurement ________________________________________________________________ 16 

2.10 Modify Commands ___________________________________________________________ 17 

3 SNAP MODES ______________________________________________ 18 

3.1 Snap Modes Described ________________________________________________________ 18 

3.2 Using Construction Lines (Construct)____________________________________________ 24 

3.3 Close CAD Functions (Hide) ___________________________________________________ 25 

4 CAD EXERCISES____________________________________________ 26 

4.1 Exercise 1 ___________________________________________________________________ 26 

4.2 Exercise 2 ___________________________________________________________________ 31 

4.3 Exercise 3 ___________________________________________________________________ 41 

5 APPENDIX- SHORTCUT KEY/PART PRINTOUTS__________________ 49 

3

INTRODUCTION 

W 

elcome to NC Express CAD Tutorial. Within this document you will learn 

the functions of the CAD package within NC Express. NC Express’ CAD 

package is a powerful tool designed to unify part development and the CAM 

software. Many features within allow for a flexible and efficient working 

environment. 

Through this tutorial you will find many useful exercises that will teach the many 

functions of NC Express CAD… 

4

1 GETTING AROUND 

It is obvious the reason NC Express is being used is for the CAM to create NC 

programs for the CNC equipment, although, in many cases there may be a need for 

a CAD package. NC Express’ integrated CAD system will allow the ability to draft 

any given part. During the process of drafting and programming there are a few 

connectivity items that need to be explained to help better the drafting process. 

Allow Selection 

Lock Geometry 

Escape key to Exit a Function 

Selecting a CAD Function 

Section 1 covers items relating to getting around the CAD system within NC 

Express. This section will explain where to find functions and how to make 

selections. 

1.1 Allow Selection 

Allow Selection does what it says, it allows the ability to select geometry and 

tooling. This is the main connection between the CAD and CAM of NC 

Express. In order to start using the CAD the Allow Selection will be de- 

activated . When geometry, tooling, or CAM is needed to be selected the 

Allow Selection is to be set active . 

NOTE- once the CAD toolbars are hidden the Allow Selection will be 

automatically activated. 

1.1.1 Selecting Elements for Using Copy/Move Functions 

Once the Allow Selection icon is set active you can now select geometry or 

tooling for editing. Geometry can be selected in various ways for copying, 

moving, mirroring or deleting. There are four ways that elements can be 

selected when Allow Selection is active: 

Single Element- Click on an element. To de-select an element click 

on something other than the element. 

Multiple Elements- To select multiple elements hold down the shift 

key and select each desired element. 

Rectangular Selection- Use the mouse to draw a box around the 

elements. The elements must be wholly within the box if drawing box 

from left to right. If drawing box from right to left any element 

touching inside the box will be selected. 

Polygon Selection- Draw a polygon around elements. 

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1.2 Lock Geometry 

Lock Geometry is used in the same fashion within the CAD as it is within the 

CAM side. When there is a need to delete tooling and leave the geometry 

within the part then this is when the Lock Geometry is used. The only time this 

icon should need to be used is when tooling needs to be removed from a certain 

area of the part. 

Geometry is locked 

Geometry is unlocked 

1.3 Use ESC Key to Exit 

When a function has been selected within NC Express it may remain active. To 

de-activate this function the quickest way, hit the ESC key on the keyboard to 

de-activate it. ESC key is used to de-activate or cancel a function. 

1.4 Selecting a CAD Function (Toolbars) 

CAD functions can either be activated from the drop down menus or by 

activating the CAD toolbar. When you select a function from the drop down 

menu the CAD toolbar will be activated along with the selected function’s icon 

activated. If the drop down menu is not used and you would like to select the 

CAD function from the toolbar you can click on the main 

toolbar to open the CAD toolbars. 

The CAD toolbars will appear on the left side of the NC Express 

drawing window. There are two different toolbars that are used for 

CAD. When the CAD toolbars are first opened using the CAD icon 

you will see only one toolbar. This will be the far left toolbar. 

Within this initial toolbar are the main functions of the CAD system: 

Line* 

Arc* 

Circle* 

Rectangle* 

Notch* 

Trim* 

Copy* 

Move (Manipulate)* 

Measure* 

Undo 

Redo 

Delete 

Delete Selected 

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Delete Construction Lines 

Construction to Real Lines 

When any function listed above with an asterisk (*) next to it is selected an 

additional toolbar will be displayed showing all options for that function type. 

Each option will be explained later within this document. 

1.5 Additional Features 

There are a few items that are not displayed within the CAD toolbars that can be 

useful features. These items include- Bolt Hole creation, Grid, and Grid of 

Parts. To find these three additional features go to Drawing menu | Features. 

Selecting any one of these features will bring up a dialog asking for pertinent 

information. Each of these will be explained later in this document. 

NOTE- Snap Modes can be sued with the Additional Features. 

1.6 Evaluator 

A keypad is provided to allow numerical input using the mouse and/or the 

keyboard. 

The Evaluator is used for either entering values for a certain CAD function or 

can simply be used to calculate an equation. The Evaluator has all amenities of 

a typical calculator (square root, sine, cosine, etc…). 

dialog will appear with two fields. Next to each field is a button for the 

Evaluator. Clicking the Evaluator button will bring up the Evaluator to 

calculate an equation. If no calculation is needed the values can be entered 

directly within the dialog with the two fields. 

The Evaluator can also be found under the Drawing menu | Measure – 

Evaluator. 

8

2 CAD FUNCTIONS 

As described earlier, CAD functions can be accessed either from the menu or via 

Toolbar buttons. The Toolbar operates on a two level system – Column 1 is the 

main function (Lines, Arcs, etc.), Column 2 is the sub function of the selected main 

function. The majority of functions remain activated until you choose another 

function. The current function and the prompts are shown in the status bar 

Whenever a point is asked for it is displayed in the bottom right corner of the status 

bar. Points can be defined by clicking in the drawing area or by choosing a Snap 

Mode function. 

On the following pages each of the CAD functions along with the icons are 

described. 

2.1 Lines 

Line 2 Points- Prompts for Point 1 and Point 2. If the layer is 

construction the line will be projected to the bounds. 

Line to Point- Set first snap point and second line will automatically ask 

for only the end point of the line. 

Parallel Element- Distance- Line parallel to a line at a given distance. 

Touch the line on the required side and then give the distance. 

Parallel Element – Point- Line parallel to a line through a point. Select 

the line segment and then define distance via snap function and exact line will 

be duplicated parallel from the distance entered. 

Double Parallel Lines- Two lines parallel to a given line. Touch the line 

and input the distance 

Common Tangents- Common tangent to two circles. There are 4 possible 

tangents. Depending on where the circles are touched determines which tangent 

is drawn. To create an Obround draw two circles and 2 Common tangents and 

then use the Cut 2 points function to remove parts of the circles. 

9

Extend Line to Limits- Extend a line to the set boundary. 

Angle to line- Draw a construction line at an angle at a given point on the 

selected element. 

Bisector of 2 lines- Draw a construction bisector at an angle. 

2.2 Arcs 

Note that the radius is positive in all cases. Where there is ambiguity the system 

will display all the possible solutions one at a time 

You can cycle through the solutions. Click OK when you have the one you 

want. Cancel rejects all solutions 

3 Point Arc- Arc defined by 3 points. 

Semicircle- Semicircle defined by 2 points. NOTE-there are 2 possible 

solutions. 

Arc Centre 2 Points- Arc specified by centre and then 2 points. NOTE- 

there are 2 possible solutions. 

Arc 2 Point Radius- Arc specified by 2 points and radius. NOTE- there 

are 4 possible solutions. 

Arc Centre Radius 2 Angles- Arc specified centre radius and 2 angles. 

NOTE- there are 2 possible solutions. 

Arc Centre Start Point Subangle- Arc specified by centre, Start Point 

and then Subtended angle. NOTE- clockwise angles are negative, counter 

clockwise are positive. 

10

Arc Point Radius Subangle- Arc Specified by Start Point, Start Angle, 

Radius and then Subtended angle. 

Parallel Element – Distance- Parallel arc at a given distance. Touch the 

required side and input the distance. If on the inside the distance must be less 

than the radius. 

Parallel Element – Point- Parallel arc through a given point. 

2.3 Circles 

Circle Centre Diameter- Circle specified by defining the centre point and 

then diameter. 

Circle 2 Points- Circle specified by two points on the diameter. 

Circle 3 Points- Circle specified by three points. 

Circle Centre Point- Circle specified by centre point and point on 

circumference (diameter). 

Circle 2 Points and Radius- Circle specified by two points on the 

circumference and radius. NOTE- there are two possible solutions. 

Tangent to 1 Element (2 Points)- Circle through two points tangential to 

a line. 

Tangent to 1 Element, Point and Radius- Circle specified through a 

point with a given radius, and tangential to a line or arc. NOTE- there may be 

two solutions. 

Tangent to 1 Element Centre- Circle with a given centre tangential to an 

arc or a line. 

Circle Tangent 2 Elements- Circle tangential to two elements with given 

radius. NOTE- there may be two solutions. (same as ) 

11

Circle Tangent 3 Elements- Circle tangential to three lines. 

Circle Tangent 2 Elements- Circle tangential to two elements with given 

radius. NOTE- there may be up to eight solutions. (same as ) 

Parallel Element – Distance- Concentric circle. Touch the correct side of 

designated circle and enter offset distance. 

Ellipse- Ellipse defined by centre, Major Axis, Minor axis and angle of 

major axis to the horizontal. The ellipse is immediately replaced by 12 arcs. 

2.4 Rectangles 

2 Point Rectangle- Rectangle specified by 2 points. 

Rectangle Point Width Height- Rectangle specified by one point, and 

then Length and Width. 

Rectangle 2 Point Rounded- Rectangle with radius corners specified by 

2 points and radius. 

Rectangle Point Width Height Radius- Rectangle with radius corners 

specified by one point, length height and radius. 

Centre, W, H- Rectangle specified by centre point, and then length and 

width. 

Rounded Rectangle, Centre Point- Rectangle with radius corners 

specified by centre point; and length, width and radius. 

2.5 Notches 

For each of the first four notch functions the side of the element will need to be 

specified along with the point at which the notch will be placed. First, the 

correct side of the element will be required. Then the point at which the notch 

will be placed will be needed. 

12

Rectangular Notch- Input width and height. 

V Notch- Input Width and height. 

Angular V notch- Input Width and angle. 

U notch- Input Width and Height. 

The next two notches require two elements to be chosen to locate where the 

notch will be located. 

Corner Notch- Touch two lines and specify the distance along each line. 

First click represents Distance 1 and second represents Distance 2. 

Corner Loop- Touch two lines and then specify the radius. 

2.6 Trims 

Trim 2 lines- Select two elements to be trimmed. Both elements will be 

trimmed at the intersection point. 

Trim Element Against Element- Trim one element against another. 

Click on the part of the element to keep. There are two possible cases 

-If the second element intersects (or would intersect) the first, the first element 

will be shortened. 

-If the second element does (or would) not intersect the first, the first element 

will be lengthened. 

Extend- Extend an element to a point. The point must lie on the extension 

of the element. This can be used to close gaps where appropriate but if this 

condition is not met then either use (Trim Element Against Element) or 

insert a line or replace the element. 

Cut 2 Points- Cut an element between two points, both of which must lie 

on the element. Click on the part of the element to delete. 

Split Element- Split an element at a point. The point must lie on the 

element. 

13

The next two trims require two elements to be chosen to locate where the notch 

will be located. 

Fillet- Touch the two elements and then specify the radius. Element lines 

do not have to intersect. 

Chamfer- Specify two lines and then enter both distances from the 

intersection point. Distance 1 equals the distance on the first element selected 

and Distance 2 equals the distance on the second element. The two lines do not 

have to intersect. 

2.7 Move 

When using the Move functions the elements to be moved must be selected 

first. To select an element before choosing the Move function, you must first 

activate the Allow Selection icon on the toolbar. 

Move- Move items from one point to another. CAD will ask for ‘From 

Point’ and ‘Second Point’ (To Point). 

Mirror in Y- Mirror element(s) in Y direction. Select element(s) and 

then specify a point to indicate where the mirror axis will be. 

Mirror in X- Mirror element(s) in X direction. Select element(s) and 

specify a point to indicate where the mirror axis will be. 

Mirror in Axis- Mirror element(s) defined by two points creating the axis. 

Rotate- Rotate selected items from defined snap point. Select point and 

then enter the rotation angle. 

Move Origin- Ability to move the 0, 0 origin point anywhere within the 

set boundaries. 

Scale- Scale selected elements in X and/or Y with a given value for each. 

14

2.8 Copy 

When using the Copy functions the elements to be copied must be selected first. 

To select an element before choosing a Copy function, you must first activate 

the Allow Selection icon on the toolbar. 

Copy- Copy selected item to defined location. CAD will ask for ‘From 

Point’ and ‘To Point’. 

Mirror Copy in Y- Copy element(s) and then mirror in the Y axis. Select 

element(s) and then specify a point to indicate where the mirror axis will be. 

Mirror Copy in X- Copy element(s) and then mirror in the X direction. 

Select element(s) and then specify a point to indicate where the mirror axis will 

be. 

Mirror Copy in Axis- Copy and Mirror element(s) defined by two points 

creating the axis. 

Grid Copy- Grid selected element(s) throughout a part by defining the 

amount in X and Y and then spacing between. 

Polar Copy- Polar copy selected element(s) around a point by defining 

the amount of times the element(s) will be copied and the angle between each 

copy point. The initial point will be the centre point of the polar grid whereas 

the angle [spacing] between the element(s) will be dependant on the centre point 

(radius). 

Linear Copy- Linear Copy element(s) along a line. Using Snap Modes, 

‘From Point’ and ‘To Point’ must be defined. Evaluator will ask for number of 

element(s) to be copied. 

15

2.9 Measurement 

When using Measure functions snap points can be used for points that are not 

the end of an element. If the end point is the chosen point End Point Snap 

Mode does not have to be selected. 

Measure Angle- Measure the angle between two intersecting points. 

Measure Distance- Measure the distance between two points. Dialog 

box displays angular distance (D), X-axis, and Y-axis distance. 

Measure Element- Verify properties of a selected element. 

After activating Measure Element select a line and the properties for the line 

will appear displaying the length and angle along with start and finish 

coordinates. 

When an arc is selected the radius is shown and when a circle is selected the 

diameter. For arcs and circles the radius or diameter can be modified within the 

properties dialog for quick modifications to the geometry. 

Evaluator- Activates Evaluator (Calculator). 

16

2.10 Modify Commands 

Undo- Undo the last element created. There may not be a one to one 

correspondence between a function and an element, e.g. Double parallel lines. 

Each undo will step back another element. 

Redo- Redo last undo function. 

Delete- Activate this button and delete items by clicking on them. 

Delete Selection- Delete selected element(s). 

Delete Construction Lines- Delete all construction lines. 

Construction -> Real- Turn construction lines to real geometry. Activate 

this button and click on each construction line to be converted to real geometry. 

17

3 SNAP MODES 

When using the CAD functions within NC Express the majority of functions require 

that a Snap Mode be utilized in order to carry out the function and be precise with 

the placement of the point. For every function that is selected there is a ‘point’ that 

is needed to be selected. On the bottom coordinate section of NC Express (shown 

below) you will see on the left side which function is currently active, then X and Y 

coordinates, and towards the right side you will find what type of selection the CAD 

is looking for (ex. First Point, Element, Centre, etc…). 

For example, when a two point line is selected as the function CAD will ask for the 

‘First Point’ and once clicked it will then ask for the ‘Second Point’ to finish the 

line. During this process a Snap Mode (Point) will be needed in order to make the 

‘First Point’ and ‘Second Point’. 

On the right side of the drawing window you will find all of the Snap Modes listed. 

Each Snap Mode can be selected by clicking the Mode within the toolbar or by 

using the keyboard shortcut keys. Each shortcut key is listed along with a 

description of the Snap Mode within the next few pages. 

3.1 Snap Modes Described 

Below are descriptions along with an example of how to use each 

of the Snap Modes. 

CURRENT- The last point drawn (current point), typically 

the end point of a line or an arc. Can be used when 

connecting a line and a line or arc and a line. 

HOW TO USE- If a Line 2 Points has been drawn, 

for example, and an Arc will be needed at the end of 

the line, after selecting the Arc type select Current as 

the Snap Mode and the last point of the line segment 

will be the ‘First Point’ of the Arc. 

SHORTCUT KEY: U 

FREE POINT- Allows for a selection anywhere within the 

drawing area. Automatic snap to end of a segment is deactivated 

with this Snap Mode active. This Snap Mode 

would typically be used in conjunction with placement of a construction 

line or if precision placement is not needed. 

18

HOW TO USE- Select Line 2 Point, for example, then select Free 

Point and click anywhere within the drawing area. Select Free 

Point again and click anywhere within the drawing area. The line 

will be placed between the two selected points. 

SHORTCUT KEY: F 

END POINT- On the given line segment, End Point uses the closest end 

point from the point of where the cursor was clicked. NOTE- This Snap 

Mode is primarily always activated even if it is not selected. 

HOW TO USE- To create an arc on a line segment, select Arc- 

Semicircle, choose End Point Snap Mode and then select the ‘First 

Point’ at the end of the line and then choose End Point and select 

the ‘Second Point’ at the other end of the line segment. NOTE- if 

you were to choose the ‘First Point’ and ‘Second Point’ without 

selecting End Point you would have been able to accomplish the 

same thing- End Point is always activated unless another Snap 

Mode is in use. 

SHORTCUT KEY: E 

INTERSECTION- Use the intersection of two segments (arc or line) as 

the snap point. If an intersection does not exist then the intersection will 

be determined automatically after the two clicks have been made. 

HOW TO USE- Two clicks are required for this Snap Mode. 

Example- if two line segments, horizontal and vertical, intersect 

creating a cross and the intersection is needed as the starting or 

ending point, select Intersection and then choose the vertical 

segment and then the horizontal segment (or vice versa). The snap 

point will be set as this point where the segments intersect. 

SHORTCUT KEY: I 

CENTER- Ability to choose the center of a arc or circle. Can be useful 

with any function of the CAD to place geometry or select any type of 

starting or ending point. 

HOW TO USE- For example if a construction line is needed that 

will run through the middle of the a circle select the line function 

and then activate ‘Construct’, select Center Snap Mode and then 

choose Relative Snap Mode and then enter a value of 1 for DX and 

click OK. The line will start at the center of the circle allowing it 

to be drawn in the X axis directly in the middle of the circle. 

19

SHORTCUT KEY: C 

ABSOLUTE- Allows the ability to choose the exact X and Y coordinate 

with reference to the 0, 0 origin. NOTE- If entering coordinates using 

Absolute value make sure that the part is referenced at 0, 0 first so that 

the placement of the contour is precise. 

HOW TO USE- Select Rectangles – Rectangle Point Width 

Height and then choose Absolute Snap Mode. CAD will now ask 

for X and Y coordinates. Enter 0, 0 for X and Y and then enter the 

size (height and width) of the rectangle desired. This will use the 

0, 0 origin point as the starting point of the rectangle. 

SHORTCUT KEY: A 

RELATIVE- Works similar to Absolute using X and Y coordinates, but 

uses the values “relative” to the last point chosen (current point). Can be 

used to repeat the use of a function. 

HOW TO USE- After placing a circle (Centre Diameter) within a 

part, directly after choose Relative Snap Mode, then enter an X and 

Y distance away from the circle centre and click OK. This will 

bring up the circle dialog asking for the size of the circle, click OK 

to add the circle again. Relative can be used to grid out a row of 

circles if necessary. 

SHORTCUT KEY: R 

INDIRECT- Works similar to Relative but instead allows the user to 

actually choose the “Relative” point. When this Snap Mode is selected a 

dialog will ask for the X and Y coordinate that will be used as the offset 

from a ‘selected point’. Polar values are used which means that negative 

values can be used to offset to the left (-X) or below (-Y) the ‘selected 

point’. NOTE- Additional Snap Modes cannot be used after entering the 

X and Y offset values. Indirect can only be used by selecting the end 

point of a segment. 

HOW TO USE- Draw a rectangle 500m x 500mm (20”x 20”). 

Select Circle – Circle Centre Diameter and then choose Indirect 

as the Snap Mode. Enter the relative offset values (ex. -50, -35) 

and click OK. Select the top right corner of the part for the 

‘selected point’ and then enter the diameter of the circle, click 

OK. 

SHORTCUT KEY: D 

20

TANGENT- Used to draw geometry tangent to an arc or circle from the 

starting point. NOTE- cannot be used as the starting point of a CAD 

function. 

HOW TO USE- Start by drawing a circle anywhere within the 

drawing window. Draw a line segment select the ‘First Point’ 

using any type of Snap Mode (not Tangent) and then select 

Tangent as the ‘Second Point’ and then click on which side of 

the circle or arc the line will be attached to. 

SHORTCUT KEY: T 

MIDDLE- Uses the middle of a segment as the snap point if selected. 

Determines the length or diameter of the selected line segment and finds 

the exact middle to be used as ‘Point’. 

HOW TO USE- Draw a line and select Middle as the Snap 

Mode, use with either ‘First Point’ or ‘Second Point’, and select 

anywhere on the desired segment to apply to the middle point. 

SHORTCUT KEY: M 

HORIZONTAL- ‘Second Point’ of a line being drawn. Allows a line 

to be drawn horizontal to attach to a chosen segment (arc or line). When 

Horizontal is chosen as the ‘Second Point’ Snap Mode all that is needed 

is to click on the chosen segment (arc or line), no need to choose an 

additional Snap Mode. 

HOW TO USE- when applying a line (either Line 2 Points or 

Line to Point) where the starting point is somewhere where it 

will intersect through another segment. After choosing the ‘First 

Point’ select Horizontal and then click on the intersecting 

segment. Line will be drawn ending at that point at 0/180°. 

SHORTCUT KEY: H 

VERTICAL- ‘Second Point’ of a line being drawn. Allows a line to be 

drawn vertical to attach to a chosen segment (arc or line). When 

Vertical is chosen as the ‘Second Point’ Snap Mode all that is needed is 

to click on the chosen segment (arc or line), no need to choose an 

additional Snap Mode. 

HOW TO USE- when applying a line (either Line 2 Points or 

Line to Point) where the starting point is somewhere where it 

will intersect through another segment. After choosing the ‘First 

21

Point’ select Vertical and then click on the intersecting segment. 

Line will be drawn ending at that point at 90/270°. 

SHORTCUT KEY: V 

PERP. (Perpendicular)- Draw a line perpendicular to a segment (arc or 

line). Perp. can be used as both ‘First Point’ and/or ‘Second Point’ 

when drawing a line. An element must be chosen to apply this Snap 

Point, when chosen the position of the snap point will be determined by 

the last point drawn (current point). 

HOW TO USE- For example, draw two parallel horizontal lines. 

The upper line should be longer than the lower. Draw a vertical 

line (either Line 2 Points or Line to Point) at then end point of 

the lower line where it is shorter than the upper. Choose Perp. 

and click the upper element. 

SHORTCUT KEY: P 

ANGLE- Draw a line at a given angle from the current point to a 

selected element. 

HOW TO USE- Draw a line (either Line 2 Points or Line to 

Point) after choosing the ‘First Point’ select Angle and enter the 

angle at which the line will be at, click OK. Move the cursor to 

an arc or line that will be intersected by the current line and click 

on that element. 

SHORTCUT KEY: G 

X(P1)Y(P2)- The X value from the first mouse click (P1) is used along 

with the Y value from the second mouse click (P2) to determine the snap 

point. P1 and P2 are only used in conjunction with End Point Snap 

Mode. No other Snap Modes work while this Snap Mode is active. 

HOW TO USE- Draw a line (either Line 2 Points or Line to 

Point) and for the ‘First Point’ select X(P1)Y(P2) Snap Mode 

find two different end points to click on (either arc or line 

segment). Once clicked the snap point will set the ‘First Point’. 

SHORTCUT KEY: Y 

CIRCLE AXIS- Finds a quadrant point of an arc or circle nearest to the 

cursor click. Similar to Middle and End Point Snap Modes whereas the 

click made on the arc or circle will automatically find the nearest 

quadrant. Arcs and circles have up to four quadrants (0, 90, 180 and 

22

270°) throughout the circular shape. Depending on where the click is 

made the closest quadrant point will be chosen as the snap point. 

HOW TO USE- Draw a circle within a part. Then draw a line 

selecting Circle Axis as the ‘First Point’. Click anywhere on the 

diameter of the circles geometry. Starting point of line will be at 

the nearest quadrant. 

SHORTCUT KEY: X 

POLAR- Snap point applied by using a distance value (R) and an angle 

value (Theta). This Snap Mode is also applied relative to the last drawn 

point (current point). 

HOW TO USE- Draw a circle at any point within a part 

(r=25mm [1”). Then, draw a line selecting Polar for ‘First 

Point’, enter R=12.5mm (0.5”) and Theta=0 and click OK. Then 

finish line with any Snap Mode. 

SHORTCUT KEY: O 

NEAREST- Used to connect an arc or line to the closest point of where 

the cursor is clicked on a given segment (arc or line). 

HOW TO USE- Within a part, draw a line starting at any point 

and then intersect through an arc or line by using Nearest. When 

Nearest is selected click on the designated segments chosen 

intersection point and the line will be placed at the closest point 

near the click. 

SHORTCUT KEY: S 

FRACTION- Derives a point as being a certain fraction between two 

points. Evaluator asks for a value that will work as the fraction. Two 

click points are asked for to determine where the point will be in direct 

relation to the fraction value. NOTE- No additional Snap Modes can be 

used when Fraction is chosen, only geometry end points can be chosen. 

The value entered explained below: 

• < 1- any fraction value less than 1 will apply the snap point 

between the two click points chosen. (ex. 0.5 fraction 

value will place the snap point directly in the middle of the 

two clicks.) 

• ≥ 1- any fraction value greater or equal to 1 will be placed 

outside the click points based upon the distance between 

clicks. (ex. A value of 2 will place the snap point twice the 

distance away from the first click point.) 

23

o Positive Fraction value- If a positive value is 

entered the placement of the snap point will be in 

the same direction as the second click point away 

from the first. (i.e. going forward) 

o Negative Fraction value- If a negative value is 

entered the placement of the snap point will be in 

the opposite direction of the second click from the 

first click. (i.e. going backwards) 

HOW TO USE- Draw a square 100mm x 100mm (4” x 4”). 

Next, select a Circle Centre Diameter and choose Fraction as the 

Snap Mode. Enter 0.5 as the fraction value and click OK. You 

will then have to click two times to determine the distance to 

calculate, click the top left and bottom right of the square and 

then enter the diameter of the circle. The circle will be entered 

directly in the middle of the square. 

SHORTCUT KEY: N 

ALONG- Obtains a point at a specified distance from the end of a line 

nearest to the cursor click. When this Snap Mode is selected the 

Evaluator will appear asking for a distance. Entering a negative value 

will create the snap point off of the selected line. 

HOW TO USE- Draw a line 100mm (4”) long. Draw a line 

again selecting Along as the Snap Mode for the ‘First Point’, 

enter 25mm (1”) as the Distance and click OK. Next, select a 

point on either side of the first line that was drawn. You will 

now see that the ‘First Point’ of the line is starting at 25mm (1”) 

from the nearest edge where you clicked with the cursor. 

SHORTCUT KEY: L 

CAD AREA- Not an actual Snap Mode. When this is selected this 

means that no Snap Modes have been selected. 

3.2 Using Construction Lines (Construct) 

Construction lines can be created using any CAD drawing function. When 

creating Construction lines the lines are created within a different layer 

specified for construction layer. The CAD construction layer can be hidden, 

locked or deleted like any other. 

To activate the ability to add a Construction line you must check the ‘Construct’ 

box under the snap modes menu. Once activated the Construction lines can 

then be drawn. Construction lines are primarily used to define a point within a 

24

part. Although there are many different types of snap modes Construction lines 

can still be useful. 

3.3 Close CAD Functions (Hide) 

By clicking on the Hide button underneath the snap modes menu the CAD 

toolbars will be closed/hidden. 

25

4 CAD EXERCISES 

The last few sections explain all of the features within NC Express’ CAD system. 

Within the following section you will be able to put the features to use by 

following through three different exercises. The parts within these exercises range 

from easy to difficult when it comes to drawing capabilities. Following the steps 

will help you get comfortable with the functions, snap points and drawing 

capabilities within NC Express CAD system. 

4.1 Exercise 1 

The first exercise will primarily show the application of simple geometry. The 

majority of the exercise will be based upon copying, moving and applying 

equations within the Evaluator. 

Start by setting the origin at Absolute 0, 0 for this part. 

STEP 1: Choose Circles 

STEP 2: Choose Circle Centre Diameter 

STEP 3: Choose Absolute from the Snap Menu (or type A on the keyboard). 

This will bring up the Absolute Coordinates dialog. 

STEP 4: Enter X-0, Y-0 and click OK. This will bring up the Evaluator asking 

for the diameter. 

STEP 5: Enter 400 and then click OK. 

26

STEP 6: Chose Absolute again from the Snap Menu (or click A on the 

keyboard) and set X-0, Y-0 for the coordinates, then click OK. 

STEP 7: Set the diameter to 8.5. 

Zoom all to show the circles. 

The next steps will add a rectangle within the circle geometry that will be used 

to copy around the inside of the round part. 

STEP 8: Choose Rectangles 

STEP 9: Choose Rectangle Centre Height Width 

STEP 10: Choose Absolute from the Snap menu (or click A on keyboard). 

Leave X = 0 

Click on the Evaluator for Y. 

(The Evaluator will be used to calculate the centre for the Y value) 

Enter the equation: 103 + 54 / 2 

Click “=” to find the value for the equation. 

Click OK and then OK for the Absolute Coordinates dialog. 

This brings up the Height and Width dialog, enter width 25.2 and height 54 and 

then click OK. 

27

Your drawing should now look the same as below: 

(Click the Escape key (Esc) to exit from the CAD function.) 

The next steps will cover rotating elements. 

STEP 11: Click to Allow Selection of geometry. Then, select the 

rectangle you have just drawn by drawing a rectangle around it using the mouse 

selecting only the rectangle geometry. 

STEP 12: Choose Move 

STEP 13: Choose Rotate 

STEP 14: Choose Centre from Snap Menu (or type C on the keyboard). Then, 

click on the outer circle geometry. 

STEP 15: Enter 22.5 as the angle and click OK. 

28

Now create a second rectangle in the same way as the first (steps 8-10). The 

Only differences are that the Height and Centre Y (for absolute) will change. 

For Absolute Y use the equation: 53 + 104/2. 

For the Height of the rectangle use 104. 

Your drawing should now look the same as below: 

(Press Escape) 

For the final steps of the exercise the rectangles will be copied around the inside 

of the circle using the Polar Copy function. 

STEP 16: Set Allow Selection on by clicking the button on the toolbar. 

STEP 17: Select both of the rectangles within the part, only the rectangle 

geometry. 

STEP 18: Choose Copy 

STEP 19: Choose Polar Copy 

STEP 20: Chose Centre from Snap Menu (or type C on the keyboard) and then 

click on the circle. 

29

Set Number to Copy = 7 

Angle = 45 

Click OK 

The part is now finished and should look the same as above. Save the Part as 

CAD_Drawing1.cp. Save the part by either clicking Save on the toolbar or 

by going to File menu | Save (or Save as…). 

30


We will start with the origin at Absolute 0,0 for this particular part. 


STEP 2: Choose Rectangle Point Width Height 


This will bring up the Absolute Coordinates dialog. 

STEP 4: Enter 0, 0 and click OK. This will bring up a dialog asking for Width 

and Height, enter: 

STEP 5: Click OK and the rectangle will be created. Zoom to view the 

entire rectangle. 

Next steps will add 6.5mm circles to the part to create holes throughout the 

border of the part. The Indirect snap point will be used to apply the holes. 

Indirect is used to assign a new point relative to a chosen point. 


STEP 7: Choose Circle Centre Diameter 

STEP 8: Select Indirect Snap point (or type D on the keyboard). Enter: 

DX: 63.5 

DY: 6.5 

Click OK. 

STEP 9: CAD is now asking for ‘Point’ shown below. 

31

Using the cursor click on the bottom left corner (vertex) of the rectangle. Once 

clicked the Evaluator will appear asking for the diameter of the circle. Enter 6.5 

and click OK. 

NOTE- Once the first circle is applied the circle function is still active (unless 

Esc or starting another function). You now have the option to continue using 

the same function, continue below… 

STEP 10: Use the following points in conjunction with the Indirect Snap point. 

For the following holes use the bottom left corner of the rectangle as the ‘Point’: 

Hole #2- DX: 184, DY: 6.5 

Hole #3- DX: 6.5, DY: 44.5 

Hole #4- DX: 6.5, DY: 130 

For the following holes use the top left corner of the rectangle as the ‘Point’: 

Hole #5- DX: 63.5, DY: -6.5 

Hole #6- DX: 184, DY: -6.5 

For the following holes use the bottom right corner of the rectangle as the 

‘Point’: 

Hole #7- DX: -6.5, DY: 44.5 

Hole #8- DX: -6.5, DY: 130 

32

The next steps will add two rectangles to the internal contour of the part. 


STEP 12: Choose Rectangle Point Width Height 

STEP 13: Choose Absolute Snap point (or type A on the keyboard) to activate 

the Absolute Coordinates dialog. 

Select next to the X field to bring up the Evaluator. 

Enter the equation above (32+6.5)-25.5 within the X field of the Evaluator. 

Click ‘=’ to calculate the Value. Once there is a Value calculated click OK. 

Select next to the Y field to bring up the Evaluator. 

33

Enter the equation 32+32 within the Y field of the Evaluator. Click ‘=’ to 

calculate the Value. Once there is a Value calculated click OK. 

You should now have the values entered within the Absolute Coordinates 

displayed below: 

Click OK and then Enter the values below: 

Click OK to add the Rectangle 


STEP 15: Choose 2 Point Rectangle 

STEP 16: Choose Indirect Snap point 

Within the Evaluator enter the following equation for X: -38-19 

Enter the following value for Y: 57 

Click OK 

Click the bottom right corner of the rectangle as the ‘Point’ 

STEP 17: Choose Relative Snap point (or type R on keyboard) 

Enter X: 38 

Enter Y: 63.5 

Click OK to add the rectangle. 

Within the part you should now have two rectangles and eight (8) 6.5mm holes. 

A picture of the part is shown on the next page. 

34

The next steps will add obround slots within the internal contour of the part. 

Obrounds will be added utilizing both the rectangle and arc functions. NOTE- 

After the first obround is added four (4) circles will be added outside each 

corner of the obround (rectangle). [Obround size is X: 50mm by Y: 20mm] 


STEP 19: Choose Centre, W, H 

STEP 20: Choose Indirect Snap point 

Within the Evaluator enter the following equation for X: 108+32 

Enter the following value for Y: 47.5 

Click OK 

Click the bottom left corner of the part as the ‘Point’ 

STEP 21: Once the Indirect point has been chosen a dialog will appear asking 

for Width and Height, enter the values shown below: 

Click OK 

The next step is to add arcs on each end of the rectangle to create the obround. 

35

STEP 22: Choose Arcs 

STEP 23: Choose Semicircle 

1 

2 

2 

1 

Once the Semicircle function is active you are able to click on the corner points 

of the rectangle. The Semicircle function requires two points to be clicked in 

order to apply the arc. Above represents the first and second click points of the 

rectangle defined as 1 and 2 respectively. Click around the rectangle in the 

order specified above. 

After the second click the arc will be 

placed within the rectangle as solution 1 

of 2. Clicking either one of the arrow 

the better solution. 

buttons to find 

In order to apply the arc on the outside of the rectangle first you must click in a 

clockwise motion around the outside of the rectangle (displayed below). 

2 

1 

1 

2 

Once the correct solution is found click OK to apply the arc. When both arcs 

are placed on each side of the rectangle there will still be two vertical lines of 

the rectangle that will need to be deleted. Click the Allow Selection icon 

36

on the toolbar to allow selection of these two lines and then delete them. 

(NOTE- there is an easier way to add an obround, Rounded Rectangle – Centre 

Point, but the above way shows the use of adding a rectangle and arcs) 

The next step will be to apply the 3mm circles to the outside of the obround. 

STEP 24: Draw Construction lines. Choose Lines 

STEP 25: Activate Contruct on Snap menu (or type Z on keyboard) 

STEP 26: Choose Line 2 Points 

Vertical Construction Lines 

Choose Middle (M) Snap point and starting with the left side of the 

obround click in the middle of the arc. 

Choose Relative (R) Snap point and within the dialog enter the value 1 for 

DY and click OK (leaving DX as 0). 

Repeat for the right side of the obround. 

Horizontal Construction Lines 

Choose End Point (E) Snap point and click on any end point of the 

horizontal lines of the obround. 

Choose Relative (R) Snap point and within the dialog enter the value 1 for 

DX and click OK (leaving DY as 0). 

Repeat for the opposite horizontal line. 

STEP 27: Apply Circles. Choose Circles 

STEP 28: Choose Circle Centre Diameter (Uncheck Construct on Snap 

menu) 

STEP 29: Choose Intersection (I) Snap point. 

Starting in the top left corner of the obround click on the horizontal and vertical 

construction lines. 

The Evaluator will now appear asking for the Diameter, enter 3 and click OK. 

Repeat step 29 for all four corners of the obround. 

37

Zoom to view the entire part and then click on left side toolbar to 

delete the construction lines. 

The newly created obround is within this drawing a total of six times which 

means that it will need to be copied instead of redrawn. The next step is to copy 

the obround. 

STEP 30: Highlight the obround along with the four circles (make sure Allow 

Selection is activated) 

STEP 31: Choose Copy 

STEP 32: Choose Single Copy 

STEP 33: Choose Current (U) Snap point 

STEP 34: Choose Relative (R) Snap point 

Enter the following values: 

Click OK 

Select the copied obround and circles and repeat steps 30-34 to add the third 

obround. 

Once you have three obrounds on the part these three obrounds will need to be 

copied again. Select all three obrounds and circles and repeat steps 30-34, but 

instead of using the Relative Coordinates above use the value displayed below: 

Click OK 

The part should now look similar as the picture on the next page. 

38

There are two operations left to apply a corner notch and trim to apply a 

chamfer to a vertex. 

Corner Notch 

STEP 35: Choose Notches 

STEP 36: Choose Corner Notch 

STEP 37: Starting with the external top left corner of the part click on the 

vertical line (left side) and then horizontal line (top side). 

A dialog will now ask for Distance 1 and Distance 2, enter the values from 

below: 

Click OK 

Repeat for all four corner of the part external shape. 

Chamfer Trim 

STEP 38: Choose Trims 

STEP 39: Choose Chamfer 

STEP 40: Starting with the top left corner of the part select vertical line and 

horizontal line that create the vertex and enter the values displayed on the next 

page. 

39

Click OK 

Repeat steps 38-40 for all external vertices of the part. Also, repeat these steps 

on the internal rectangle on the right side of the part. 

Final part should look similar to the picture below: 

Save this part as CAD_Drawing2.cp. 

40


For this part the 0, 0 origin will be used for the left side of the part. 

STEP 1: Choose Lines 



STEP 4: Enter 0, 0 for X and Y value and click OK 

Now we can see that the ‘First Point’ from our line has snapped to 0, 0 

Now NC Express asks for the second point. We can see this in the right corner 

of our screen: 

STEP 5: Choose Absolute from the Snap Menu and enter the distance for the 

line in direction X (59.6). This can be done with the keyboard and then Click 

OK. 

Or by pressing on the evaluator button : 

(How to work with the Evaluator: see CAD 

manual) 

Next steps will create construction lines on two 

end points of the drawn line. Therefore we will 

first draw a construction line that is parallel with 

the horizontal line we have on our screen. 

STEP 6: Activate the option construct underneath the snap menu. 

41

STEP 7: Choose Line 

STEP 8: Choose Parallel Element - Distance 

STEP 9: NC Express asks to touch the element on correct side. (See bottom 

right corner of NC Express screen, shown below) 

This means that if we want to create a parallel line on the upside of the line we 

need to click above the line. If we want to create a parallel line underneath the 

line we need to click under the line. 

STEP 10: Click on the upside of the line and the evaluator will appear asking 

for a distance. Enter a distance of 5mm. 

The next steps we will create the construction line using two points, keep the 

option construct active. 



42

STEP 13: Choose End Point from the Snap Menu (or type E on the keyboard) 

and then click on one of the end points of the line. 

STEP 14: Choose Perp (Perpendicular) from the Snap Menu (or type P on the 

keyboard) and click on the parallel construct line. 

Now we have a construction line in one end point of the line: 

Repeat step 10 until step 13 for the opposite end point of the line. 

Now we will create a construct line that is the width of our part. 


STEP 16: Choose Parallel Element - Distance 

STEP 17: NC Express asks to touch the element on correct side, click on the 

lower side of the horizontal line this time. The evaluator will appear on the 

screen asking for a distance, enter the value 19.45 (width of the part). 

Created construct 

line at 19.45 

43

Now we need to create two construction circles at the end points of the line with 

a radius of 0.5. Leave Construct activated. 


STEP 19: Choose Circle Tangent 2 Elements 

STEP 20: NC Express asks to choose First Element, choose the construction 

line on the left side of the part, and then choose the Second Element, the 

horizontal line. The evaluator appears on the screen asking for the radius; enter 

the value for the radius 0.5. 

Repeat step 18 until 20 on the right side of the line. 

When we look at the right side of the part we can see that we have line under an 

angle of 20°. To make this line we will first draw the intersection point with the 

circle on the right side of the part. 



STEP 23: Choose Centre from the Snap Menu (or type C on the keyboard) and 

then click on the circle that is on the right side of the line. 

STEP 24: Choose Angle from the Snap Menu (or type G on the keyboard) and 

enter the value -20 within the Evaluator. 

44

STEP 25: NC Express will now ask for the Second Element, select the 

construction line that is drawn vertical at the right end point of the horizontal 

line. 

Now we need to create a line from out of this intersection 

point. 



STEP 28: Choose the First Element- the intersection point shown to the right. 

Click directly on the intersection or use Intersection Snap Mode. 

STEP 29: Choose Angle from the Snap Menu (or 

type G on the keyboard) and enter the value 70 within 

the Evaluator. 

STEP 30: Choose the Second Element- the lower 

horizontal construction line. 

Intersection point for the line at 20° 

45

Now we are able to start constructing the third corner of the part. 



STEP 33: NC Express asks to choose First Element- choose the last drawn 

angled construction line on right side that is at 20°. Then, choose the second 

element- the lower horizontal construct line. The Evaluator will appear on the 

screen asking for the radius, enter the value 0.5. 

Now that we have our three corners we can complete the two other lines. The 

line on the bottom of the part and the line on the right side of the part. 



STEP 36: Choose the First Element- circle on the left upper side of the part 

and the Second Element- circle on the bottom of the part. The Evaluator will 

appear on the screen asking for a radius, enter the value 170mm. 

The circle that is added to the part is not a fit for what we are looking for, but on 

top of our screen we can find additional solutions by clicking on the arrows 

listed in the Multiple Solutions dialog. 

46

This means that we can draw more then one solution. Press on the arrow to get 

the correct solution. Click OK when the correct solution is found. The correct 

solution is when the arc of the circle is touching the outside (lower left) of the 

construction circles. 

Now we need to complete the drawing using real lines instead of the 

construction lines. 



STEP 39: Choose the First Element- intersection on 

the circle on the right side of the part and then choose 

the Second element- intersection on the bottom circle 

of the part. NOTE- Select Intersection as the Snap 

Mode and then click on the circle and then line, you 

should not have to zoom in on each end point of the 

line. 

To create the bottom line of the part the intersection of the arc with the circles 

will be chosen: 

STEP 40: Choose Arc 

STEP 41: Choose Arc 2 Points and Radius 

STEP 42: Choose the First Element- construction circle in the left corner of the 

part and then choose the Second Element- construction circle on the bottom 

corner of the part. Enter 170 as the radius and click OK. 

Again we don’t get the required arc but on top of the screen we have the 

window that implicates that we have more then one solution. Just click on the 

arrow until we have the right arc. 

Now we can delete all construction lines. 

47

STEP 43: Choose Delete Construction Lines 

We only need to create the corners on the three sides of the part: 

STEP 44: Choose Trims 

STEP 45: Choose Fillet 

STEP 46: Start trim in the far left corner. Choose the First Element (arc) and 

then the Second Element (top horizontal line). The Evaluator will appear asking 

for the radius; enter the value 0.5mm for the radius. 

Repeat step 44 until 46 for the two other corners. 

Part should look similar to above, save as CAD_Drawing3.cp. 

48

5 Appendix 

Below is a shortcut key quick reference that can be printed out and placed on the 

top edge of the keyboard. Print this page and cutout. The next three pages display 

a printout of the parts from the three exercises. 

49

CAD user manual - Finn-Power International, Inc.

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