Changing mesh density along edges

When defining the edge length of your mesh, make sure you know your model file format, as different model types allow the use of different functionality in the Define Mesh Density dialog.

For example (*.stp) 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 how to change the mesh size. A similar process can be applied to any other type of model.

1. Open or import an (*.iges) model.
2. Click (Mesh tab > Mesh panel > Density).
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. Click the arrow next to the entity to reveal an expanded view of sub-entities relative to it, then click an entry in the Explorer view. The surface or curve is highlighted on your model.
5. Click Add>> to add the highlighted element to a new mesh control group. Repeat Step 4 and 5 until you have added all the relevant entities to the mesh control group. The selected elements now appear in the right side panel and are part of a new mesh control group. You can change the mesh parameter of all these elements by changing the mesh parameters of the mesh control group.
6. Change the Edge length, or switch to Target number of divisions, and enter an appropriate value. These changes only affect the elements listed in the Mesh control group.
7. Click Apply.

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