|
Design Automation
Automation is the process of eliminating repetitive steps in the design cycle
This is accomplished in several ways, although the most common way is to automate design through the use of a Visual Basic based programming language (scripting and macros).
One of the advantages of automation is the ability to develop customized functions specific to design practices already established, or even to introduce seed models or design templates. By building upon existing resources, automation can reduce, or even eliminate, the need for extra input from the user. Where input is required, it can still be minimized, requiring designers to only provide the most essential input.
The application of automation in the design process is virtually unlimited. Some examples of automation at work:
- Batch script for the conversion of drawing files to PDF
- Export of points from Excel spreadsheet to CAD model
- Export of points from CAD model to Excel spreadsheet
- Grid of points, centered in CAD model (for element layout)
- Automatic spline creation (from selection of points)
- Create normal (perpendicular) lines to a surface
This is only just a small sample of what is possible with Catia V5 automation. The same principles can be applied to virtually any product or design process. Additionally, automation can be used to help reduce the cycle time for large quantities of objects, or it can be used to cut down on everyday repetitive tasks, allowing designers to be more focused on adding value in other areas.
Automate draw:
Drafting suite macros providing optimised functionalities in order to standardise and improve the quality and speed of companies' drawings.
- Create, modify and update frame text.
- Insert specific notes.
- Maintain correlation with PLM data.
- Manage drawing links between parts.
- Generate and update bill of materials.
Automate composite:
Composite suite delivering innovative ideas in composite part design, CATPart organisation and optimisation.
- Integration with upstream design source data from stress analysis applications.
- Organise and optimise composite part specification tree structure.
- Prepare data for downstream software (e.g. FiberSIM).
- Automatically generate blocking geometry for tooling.
|
Français
