Understanding 2D Sketch Mechanism in 3D Creator (3DEXPERIENCE)

February 4, 2026
Understanding 2D Sketch Mechanism in 3D Creator (3DEXPERIENCE)

In modern product design, sketching is not just about drawing shapes—it is about controlling design intent.

The 3D Creator role in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers a powerful and intuitive 2D Sketch Mechanism that helps designers create fully constrained, parametric sketches that behave predictably during modeling.

Step-by-Step Guide: Creating a Controlled 2D Sketch Mechanism in 3D Creator

Step 1: Create a New Sketch

  1. Open 3D Creator from the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
  2. Create a new Physical Product.
  3. Select a plane (XY, YZ, or ZX).
  4. Click Sketch.

Step 2: Draw Basic Sketch Geometry

  1. Use tools like:
  • Line
  • Rectangle
  • Circle
  • Arc
  1. Create the rough shape without worrying about exact size.

Step 3: Observe Degrees of Freedom (Sketch Behavior)

  1. Drag sketch entities using the mouse.
  2. Notice how:
  • Lines rotate
  • Corners move
  • Shapes distort

This movement indicates missing constraints.

Step 4: Apply Geometric Constraints

Now control the sketch mechanism using constraints:

Common constraints used in the video:

  1. Horizontal / Vertical – fixes orientation
  1. Coincident – joins points
  2. Parallel / Perpendicular – controls alignment
  3. Tangent – smooth contact between entities
  4. Equal – same size or length

After each constraint, test movement again.

Step 5: Add Dimensions (Driving the Mechanism)

  1. Use Dimension tool
  2. Define:
  • Lengths
  • Widths
  • Diameters
  • Angles
  1. Modify dimension values and observe how the sketch updates.

 This is the core of the sketch mechanism—dimensions drive geometry behavior.

Step 6: Achieve a Fully Defined Sketch

  1. Check sketch status:
    • Under-defined → Blue
    • Fully defined → Black
  2. Ensure no unwanted movement remains.

Step 7: Use the Sketch for 3D Features

Once the sketch is controlled:

  1. Exit Sketch
  2. Use features like:
    • Extrude
    • Extrude cut
    • Revolve

Because the sketch is well-defined, 3D changes become safe and fast.

Conclusion

The 2D Sketch Mechanism in 3D Creator is a powerful concept that transforms simple drawings into intelligent, parametric designs. By understanding how constraints and dimensions control sketch behavior, you can:

  • Reduce modeling errors
  • Improve design stability
  • Make faster design changes
  • Build professional-grade 3D models

If you master sketch mechanisms, your 3D models will automatically become stronger and smarter.