Increasing/decreasing mesh density on surfaces

Before you define your mesh size, it is important to understand the starting point, as different model types allow the use of different functionality in the Define Mesh Density dialog. For example, (*.stl) models are imported as a solid model, whereas (*.iges) models contain separate surfaces and entities, and make definition in localized areas more feasible.

The following instructions use an (*.iges) model to illustrate the process of increasing or decreasing mesh size. Although the same, if not similar process can be applied to any other type of model.

Tip: To make surfaces more visible once selected, click > Options. Select the Default Display tab, and then change the Surface drop-down option to Solid .

1. Open or import an (*.iges) model.
2. Click (Mesh tab > Mesh panel > Density). The Define Mesh Density dialog appears.
3. Click a section of the model. The Explorer view within the Define Mesh Density dialog updates depending on what type of feature you have selected. For example, Loop<x> Curve<x> indicates a curve.
4. You can now either enter a Global edge length so the chosen surface mesh is constrained to a global size, or deselect Use global edge length and enter a new figure in the Target edge length box.
5. Click Apply.

Tip: The Global edge length is the same size as seen in the General tab of the Generate Mesh dialog.