In this section, we will learn how to introduce a new coordinate system. To highlight this, we will create a simple triangular prism and introduce a New Coordinate System, as shown in the following diagram:

Let's start creating the model indicated by following these steps: planning, sketching, and applying features. However, note that, since we are familiar with the steps and with creating various shapes already, we will only explain this process in brief. Our plan for this model will be to start by creating the overall simple shape first and then introduce the new coordinate system. Follow these steps:

1. Sketch the isosceles triangular base using the top plane and apply extruded boss with the dimensions indicated in the preceding diagram. We should have the shape shown in the following screenshot: 

2. Under the Features tab, select Coordinate System under Reference Geometries, as shown in the following screenshot:

3. The PropertyManager will appear on the left, showing the options that we need in order to define our new Coordinate System. To define a new coordinate system, we have to specify the origin and the axes. Note that we can define the system by specifying two axes. We can set the feature as shown in the following screenshot. The first selection is to assign the origin of our new coordinate system. To assign it, select a vertex from the model. We can do the same thing with the X axis and the Y axis. Note the arrows next to each axis selection of the PropertyManager; they allow us to switch the direction of the axis. We can flip the direction of the axis until we get the right orientation, as shown in the following screenshot:

4. Click on the green checkmark to approve the new coordinate system. Once we apply the new system, it will be shown on the model as Coordinate System 1, as follows:

This concludes this exercise of creating a new coordinate system. We will use this model again in the next part of this chapter to study mass properties. Next, we will start assigning a structural material and evaluate the mass property for our model.