What is the 3D Compass and how is it used?

The 3D Compass is a graphical manipulator in CATIA V5 used for moving, rotating, and positioning components within assemblies or standalone parts. It provides a quick and intuitive way to manipulate objects without requiring constraints, making it ideal for preliminary positioning or visual adjustments.

1. To modify or disable increments
   • Open the parameters for Compass manipulation dialog.
   • Check the increment values for translation or rotation.
   • Set the values to 0 to disable increments, or adjust them to your desired step size.
   • Apply the changes and test the compass movement.
2. To move or rotate a part with the compass
   • Drag the compass from its default position (top-right corner) onto the part you want to manipulate.
   • The compass will turn green, indicating it is attached to the part.
   • Use the red square on the compass to drag and reposition the part.
   • To rotate, click and drag one of the circular edges of the compass.
3. To snap the compass to features such as faces or edges
   • Drag and drop the compass onto a feature (e.g., a face).
   • The Z-axis of the compass will align normal to that feature.
   • You can further adjust its orientation manually if needed.