Hi,

In V5, I always wondered if it is possible to replace old instantiated UDFs with new ones as long as their inputs remain unchanged? The idea is to have better algorithms in place and more outputs and parameters published without re-instantiating and then there is no need for manually updating of all children features in the part design. I have seen somewhat similar functionality in 3DX xGenerative Design workbench.

Usually I don't release any UDF to others unless it is fully tested. But there are times I release them within hours with bare minimum requirements so it can be used right away in the group. And then later I enhance such UDFs with new updated versions to get more output from CATIA.

For example: A few months ago, I made a UDF for external threadmilling which has two inputs. And it generated a helix, minor diameter circle and a chamfered edge for a given thread size. Then after a couple of days, I updated it with some reactions, and added some 3D Profile of thread along with thread-mill cutter's run-out radius and root-radius of thread's profile. It came out really nice with a complete definition of solid 3d profile of an external thread. Then I had to go back to replace my previously instantiated UDF with a new updated one. In this case it was not so much of extra work since there was no geometry attached to its outputs.

Thanks,
Samarinder