- Tolerance information belongs in the 3D model
Why Model-Based Definition is replacing 2D drawings
Fully automatic tolerance specification – without a 2D drawing
SF COLORCODING assigns tolerance and surface information fully automatically via colour coding directly within the 3D model. There is no longer any need for manual entry in a separate 2D drawing, resulting in significant time savings in the design and manufacturing processes. Colour palettes and tolerance values can be customised for each company – ensuring seamless integration into existing NC and CMM workflows.
In traditional design processes, tolerances and surface finishes are documented in 2D drawings that are time-consuming to produce. This step is time-consuming, prone to errors and creates a disconnect between the CAD model and downstream processes such as NC programming or coordinate measuring machines (CMM).
Model-Based Definition (MBD) solves this problem: tolerance and quality information is stored directly within the 3D CAD model and transferred from there to all downstream processes. SF COLORCODING makes this approach practical in PTC Creo with fully automated colour assignment – quickly, accurately and without manual duplication of effort.
- Benefits of SF COLORCODING
Time saved
There is no longer any need to enter tolerances manually in 2D drawings – tolerance information is stored directly in the 3D model.
End-to-end process chain
Colour codes can be imported directly into NC and CMM programming tools such as Hypermill – without any disruption to the workflow.
Custom configuration
Colour and tolerance ranges are defined individually by each company and can be flexibly adjusted or analysed.
Creo integration
The add-on is integrated directly into the Creo user interface – allowing you to assign, save, remove and restore colours all within a single interface.
- Fully automated colour assignment for Model-Based Definition in PTC Creo
Model-Based Definition: SF COLORCODING in detail
How SF COLORCODING works
SF COLORCODING is an add-on for PTC Creo that enables the fully automated assignment of colours to specify tolerances and define surface qualities directly within the 3D model. Design engineers select from customisable colour palettes that code tolerance values and surface qualities in accordance with company standards – the assignment is carried out at the touch of a button.
If a colour-coded Creo model is already available – for example, from a supplier or another team – SF COLORCODING also allows the underlying colour palette to be analysed. This enables tolerance information associated with existing colour codes to be quickly understood and processed further.
Allocation according to various criteria
SF COLORCODING offers flexible options for applying colours to specific model elements. Colours can be assigned based on:
- Individual surfaces and structural elements
- Groups of areas or features
- Layers
- Feature parameters
- Feature type and feature name
This flexibility makes it possible to code even complex component structures completely and consistently – regardless of whether they are simple individual parts or multi-level assemblies.
Integration into NC and CMM processes
The model-based definition strategy using SF COLORCODING delivers its greatest benefits when integrated with downstream manufacturing processes. Colour codes can be imported directly into NC programming tools such as Hypermill, as well as into CMM programming tools. The tolerance information from the 3D model is thus immediately available for production planning and quality inspection without the need for manual transfer.
Model-Based Definition as a Strategy for Industry 4.0
Model-Based Definition is a key component of modern digital engineering strategies: embedding tolerance information within the 3D model lays the foundation for end-to-end digital manufacturing processes – from design through NC programming to automated quality inspection. SF COLORCODING makes this approach immediately implementable for PTC Creo users.
Component after machining with SF COLORCODING
- Functions at a glance
Analysis
We record your tolerance standards and existing colour palettes to ensure a perfectly tailored configuration.
Furnishings
You will receive SF COLORCODING set up with your company’s own colour and tolerance palettes.
Integration
Our experts integrate the collision check as a fixed step into your design process.
- Personalised advice on SF COLORCODING
Enquiry & advice
Our experts will show you how SF COLORCODING digitises your tolerance processes in PTC Creo and how you can replace 2D drawings with end-to-end MBD workflows.
- Questions / Answers
General enquiries about SF COLORCODING
What is Model-Based Definition (MBD)?
Model-Based Definition (MBD) refers to the approach of storing all product-related information – in particular dimensional and geometric tolerances as well as surface qualities – directly within the 3D CAD model, rather than documenting it in separate 2D drawings. The model thus becomes the sole authoritative data source for design, manufacturing and quality inspection.
What does SF COLORCODING do in PTC Creo?
SF COLORCODING is an add-on for PTC Creo that automatically assigns colours to specify tolerance and surface information directly within the 3D model. The colour and tolerance palettes used are configured individually for each company, and the assignment can be applied to individual surfaces, design elements, groups or according to feature parameters.
How does SF COLORCODING save time compared to 2D drawings?
There is no longer any need to enter tolerance values manually in a separate 2D drawing. Instead, tolerance information is stored directly in the 3D model and transferred automatically from there to downstream processes such as NC programming and CMM – without any duplication of effort or loss of data integrity.
Can SF COLORCODING analyse existing colour codes in Creo models?
Yes, SF COLORCODING not only allows you to assign your own colour palettes, but also to analyse existing colour codes in a Creo model. This enables you to quickly understand and process the underlying colour palette and the stored tolerance information.
Which NC and CMM tools is SF COLORCODING compatible with?
SF COLORCODING supports the direct use of colour coding in NC programming tools such as Hypermill, as well as in CMM programming tools. Thanks to this integration, tolerance information from the 3D model flows directly into production planning and quality inspection without the need for manual transfer.
Can colour and tolerance ranges be customised?
Yes, each company can define its own colour and tolerance palettes within SF COLORCODING. This allows the add-on to be tailored precisely to the company’s own specifications, quality standards and existing processes.
Is Model-Based Definition a requirement or a recommendation for manufacturing companies?
MBD is not currently a legal requirement, but is increasingly becoming the industry standard – particularly in sectors with high quality standards such as the automotive, aerospace and mechanical engineering industries. Companies that adopt MBD at an early stage benefit from shorter lead times, fewer errors and a better foundation for automated manufacturing.
How is SF COLORCODING integrated into the Creo user interface?
SF COLORCODING is integrated directly into the native Creo user interface. Via a clear and intuitive interface, designers can access tolerance information for colour codes, save and remove colour assignments, and restore them if necessary – without having to switch between different programmes.