SOFiCAD
Copyright SOFiSTiK AG, D-90419 Nürnberg, 1990-2003 This manual is protected by copy right. No part thereof may be distributed, copied, translated, changed, or paraphrased in any way without the prior approval of the SOFiSTiK AG. SOFiSTiK AG reserves all rights to edit or to change the contents of this publication at any time. SOFiSTiK assures that the manuals and the programs are engineered to the best of our knowledge; however we do not assume liability that neither the manual nor the programs are free of errors. Errors or deficiencies are usually corrected once we got to know of them. The user remains responsible for his matter of use. He has to conduct spot checks in order to proof the correctness of the analysis. Trademark: Windows, Windows 2000 Windows XP Home and Windows XP Professional are registered trademarks of Microsoft. AutoCAD is a registered trademark of the Autodesk, Inc. SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD are registered trademarks of the SOFiSTiK AG.
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD
General information
Content SOFiSTiK ............................................................Fehler! Textmarke nicht definiert. General information......................................................................................10 SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD..........................................................................10 Hotline......................................................................................................10 SOFiSTiK in the Internet...........................................................................12 Hotline and Updates.............................................................................13 Examples.............................................................................................14 Forum ..................................................................................................15 Trainings..............................................................................................16 Installation ....................................................................................................17 Requirements...........................................................................................17 Installing SOFiCAD ..................................................................................19 Starting the Installation Routine............................................................20 License Agreement ..............................................................................23 Select AutoCAD Profile ........................................................................24 Select Working Directory......................................................................26 Authorization File .................................................................................27 Installation Type...................................................................................29 Installation User ...................................................................................30 Select Program Folder .........................................................................32 Confirming the Installation Configurations ............................................33 SETUP.TXT .........................................................................................33 InstallShield Copies the Files ...............................................................35 Installation of the Hardlock Driver.........................................................36 InstallShield completed ........................................................................36 Change/Repair/Remove Installation .....................................................37 Network Hardlock .....................................................................................39 Installation............................................................................................39
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD
General information
Unblocking Licenses............................................................................40 Checking the Hardlock .............................................................................40 NAME.NAM..............................................................................................42 ServicePacks ...........................................................................................45 Starting SOFiCAD .........................................................................................47 General Functionalities (Features) .................................................................49 AutoCAD..................................................................................................49 Layouts (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ................................49 DesignCenter (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) .......................50 Property Dialogue (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help).................54 Grips (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ....................................55 Mouse wheel (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ........................56 Purge (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ...................................59 Layer (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ....................................61 Object Snaps (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)........................63 Object Snap Tracking (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ...........64 Plotting (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) .................................66 Multiple Document (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help)................67 Saving files (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) ...........................68 Use Windows Cut, Copy, and Paste (Extract from the AutoCAD OnlineHelp)....................................................................................................69 Variables (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) ..............................71 Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)......................75 SOFiCAD .................................................................................................76 Version Number...................................................................................76 AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.3.........................................................77 AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.2.........................................................78 Recovering Plans.................................................................................79 Doubble Click ......................................................................................80 SOFiMACH..........................................................................................81
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD
General information
Diagnosis.............................................................................................82 Relative Point Entry..............................................................................85 Construction / Design ...................................................................................86 Functionality (Features)............................................................................86 Dimension............................................................................................87 Position Plans ......................................................................................87 Stairs ...................................................................................................88 Edit Functions ......................................................................................88 Catalogues...........................................................................................88 Drawing Commands.............................................................................89 Pens ....................................................................................................90 Working Method .......................................................................................90 Command Reference ...............................................................................96 Plan Management........................................................................................101 Functionality ...........................................................................................101 Work Method..........................................................................................102 Comand reference..................................................................................103 Reinforcement.............................................................................................105 Functionalities (Features) .......................................................................105 Possibilities / Options .............................................................................106 General..............................................................................................106 Steel bars...........................................................................................107 Meshes ..............................................................................................110 Working Method .....................................................................................112 Command Reference .............................................................................113 Steel List .....................................................................................................117 Functionality ...........................................................................................117 Working Method .....................................................................................117 Foundations ................................................................................................119 Functionality ...........................................................................................119
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD
General information
Working Method ..................................................................................... 119 RoSy ........................................................................................................... 121 Functionality........................................................................................... 122 Options .................................................................................................. 122 Working Method ..................................................................................... 123 BAMTEC ..................................................................................................... 125 Functionality........................................................................................... 126 WorkingMethod ...................................................................................... 129 Command Reference ............................................................................. 131 Alignment ................................................................................................... 132 Target User............................................................................................ 132 Command Reference ............................................................................. 136 Steel Design ................................................................................................ 138 Functionality........................................................................................... 138 Possibilities ............................................................................................ 138 Working Method ..................................................................................... 140 Command Reference ............................................................................. 142 Mass Determination.................................................................................... 144 Functionality........................................................................................... 144 Working Method ..................................................................................... 144 Command Reference ............................................................................. 145 VBA ............................................................................................................ 148 Index ..............................................................................................................1
General information
SOFiCAD
The program SOFiCAD is a product of SOFiSTiK AG, Burgschmietstrasse 40, D-90419 Nürnberg Tel. +49 911 399010 Tel. Hotline +49 911 399010 Email:
[email protected] Homepage: www.sofistik.com
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 9 of 157
General information
SOFiCAD
General information This manual is thought as a general overview of SOFiCAD. It contents general information, installation instructions and a brief overview of the different modules and functionalities. This manual describes the functionalities of the version SOFiCAD 16.2/16.3, but it can also be used with later releases.
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD SOFiSTiK AG develops and distributes Software for engineers, especially emphasizing on constructive engineering. The software has been developed under a unified concept which allows its user to get fast to a solution, without having to overcome unnecessary obstacles. With the different SOFiCAD modules you have a comfortable compliment to AutoCAD, in order to generate formwork drawings, reinforcement plans, steel lists, steel construction drawings, setting out plans, mass determination, and analysis of planar slabs. A distinguished feature of the software is just this modular system and the possible flexibility for your working method. When working with SOFiCAD, you also have any option you know from working with AutoCAD. This manual is though as giving you a good idea and basic instructions of how to efficiently work with SOFiCAD and AutoCAD – besides the general information such as installation routines and operations of the program.
Hotline If you have any questions you can reach the SOFiCAD hotline using different methods. For any query, please let us know your customer reference number and your SOFiCAD version number. Please check the chapter for a detailed description of how to find out your exact SOFiCAD version number Version Number on page 76.
By Phone The hotline can be reached by phone + 49 911 399010 at the following hours: : Monday through Thursday
09.00 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 17.00 hrs
Friday
09.00 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 16.00 hrs
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 10 of 157
General information
SOFiCAD
We will make a note of your problem and refer you to the corresponding specialist. Please have your customer reference as well as your SOFiCAD version number at hand.
E-Mail Please send an Email, decribing your problem to
[email protected]. Please include your name, client reference number, your SOFiCAD version number and a telephone number fort he case that we have further questions. It is also easier for us to solve your problem, if your mail includes the file in the case of drawing specific problems.
Fax Please send us a fax with a thourough description of your problem (you could also include a sketch) to the following fax number: +49 89-31 58 78-77. In this case, also do not forget to include your customer reference number and your SOFiCAD version number, as well as a Telefone number for questions.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 11 of 157
General information
SOFiCAD
SOFiSTiK in the Internet The internet pages of the SOFiTiK AG (www.sofistik.com ) offer substantial help for common questions and problems.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 12 of 157
General information
SOFiCAD
Hotline and Updates Following the link Support you can find the SOFiSTiK hotline phone- and fax numbers as well as the email addresses of the hotline. A hotline query can directly be started from the internet page via email – please check also the chapter Hotline on page 10. In the case that you choose to use the interent for to start a hotline query, please have any relevant information such as operating system, AutoCAD version etc. ready. With the information we can save time and answer quicker to your questions. Furthermore you can download the current program versions, Service Packs and Freeware .
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 13 of 157
General information
SOFiCAD
Examples Following the link Library users and interested people have the possibility to browse trough interesting examples which the SOFiSTiK product portfolio has to offer. Furthermore here you can also find manuals, Online-Helps and other information.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 14 of 157
General information
SOFiCAD
Forum Following the link Forum user and interested people have the option to exchange their experiences with other users.Here, we or other users often pubish tipps and tricks for using SOFiCAD.
Registration
•
Select the option Register
•
Enter a user name and your Email address
•
Confirm the entries with the button Register
•
Upon the registration you will receive an Email to the entered address with your access data
•
With the received user name and password you can now access the forum and publish your comments
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 15 of 157
General information
•
SOFiCAD
Via the link profil, you can change your profil at any time (i.e. the password)
Trainings Following the link Schulung you can find dates, contents and pricing for SOFiCAD trainings. We offer the trainings at either of our locations in Nuremberg or Oberschleissheim as well as at your premises. If you have further
[email protected]
questions
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
regarding
trainings,
please
contact
Page 16 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Installation In the following chapter we explain the requirements for as well as the necessary steps during installation. We also explain any relevant information in that content. Please read this chapter carefully!
Requirements In order to install SOFiCAD, you must first meet the operating system requirements described in the AutoCAD manual. Additionally you need 100MB free space in order to install SOFiCAD on your hard drive.
Tree-structure of the Program Directories SOFiCAD can be installed into any directory. Every project can receive a proper directory for the drawings. Installation and Configuration of AutoCAD The correct installation and configuration of AutoCAD are required in order to install SOFiCAD. For the proper AutoCAD installation, please check the AutoCAD installation manual. Before starting the SOFiCAD installation routine, please thouroughly check, if AutoCAD is working properly. Also display units (Tablet, Mouse), printer, plotter, monitors, etc. should already be configured. The function of printers and or plotters can be checked using the AutoCAD demo-drawings. User Name AutoCAD administeres any configuration user specific except the ones saved in the drawing and the configurations of display units. Setup might change these user specific data, so that you are able to start working with SOFiCAD inmediately after installation. The requirement for the proper functionality is that the same user is loged on the system when configuring AutoCAD, installing, and working with SOFiCAD. Hardlock Driver If you install SOFiCAD for the first time on your computer or if you install an update, you must own the Windows NT Administrator rights, as the Hardlock driver will be installed. (See Installation of the Hardlock Driver Page 36 ). If you add new modules to an existing version, or re-install a version, administrator rights are not required.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 17 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Without the Administrator rights, Setup cannot check, whether a new hardlock driver needs to be intalled . System Administrator - Version 16.2 If you are system administrator and install SOFiCAD for other uers and the system environment should be identical for any user, you have to go through the following steps:
Installation on a Desktop for various users After installing SOFiCAD, please export using Option -> Profile the AutoCAD profile selected for the use of SOFiCAD. Give the users access to the by SETUP automatically generated program directory. Before starting, every SOFiCAD user needs to import the exported profile. System Administrator version 16.3 The installation von SOFiCAD 2004 Version 16.3 is carried out just like AutoCAD 2004 in two steps:
1. The first part of the installation requires administrator rightsfiles will be installed into the program directory of the computer, entries in the registry part “Local Machine” will be written and links and shortcuts to SOFiCAD will be configured. During the SOFiCAD installation the installation of the hardlock driver will be started. If it’s already present, this installlation can be “stopped” and “end Setup” can be skipped. 2. The second part automatically follows when AutoCAD or SOFiCAD is started by the used for the first time. Now, the user specific data will be copied in the user directory and enties will be made in the registry part “CurrentUser”.The AutoCAD profile will be extended with the corresponding paths. SOFiCAD is installed for the last used Autodek product (AutoCAD or ADT).
Copy Protection The SOFiCAD copy protection contains a Hardlock and the authorizing file NAME.NAM which again contains the authorization of any acquired module. The SOFiCAD hardlock has to be connected directly to the computer at the parallel interface, which means before the printer cable is connected to the hardlock. Should this not be done as decribed, the hardlock query can create problems when starting the program.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 18 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Some printers have to be turned on, in order for the copy protection to work correctly. As alternative hardlocks we also offer PCMCIA cards for Laptops and USBinterface hardlocks .
ObjectEnabler for SOFiCAD 2004 Version 16.3 and SOFiCAD 2002 Version 16.2 Should SOFiCAD drawings (DWGs) be viewed or plotted correctly from/at work stations without SOFiCAD or in programs such as AutoCAD LT or Volo View, Object Enabler is required. These are files with the ending .CBX which have to be installed in the directoy c:\programme\comon files\AutoDesk Shared. The names of the SOFiCAD object enable contain the module name, version number and the ending .dbx. Examples: sofibase162.dbx, soficadb163.dbx, etc. The ObjectEnable for SOFiCAD 2004 version 16.3 is required for AutoCAD 2004. The ObjectEnable for SOFiCAD 2002 version 16.2 is required for AutoCAD 2002.
Server-/ Workstation-installation You can find the description for server and work station installation in the server_readme.txt. The installation are not carried out via the installation assistant InstallShield® Wizard, but through proper routines.
Installing SOFiCAD SOFiCAD will be installed with the help of the installation assistant by InstallShield® Wizard. You can leave the installation from almost any window by pressing Exit. The installation can be started at a later point of time again. Please check in the section Requirements the described prerequisites, before you start the SOFiCAD installation process and carefully read the comments in the README.TXT. The following is written correspondingly to the installation routine of the SOFiCAD version 16.3. The installation of SOFiCAD 16.2 is mostly the same.
Starting the Installation Routine Plese carry out the following steps in order to install SOFiCAD on your computer.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 19 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
•
Before starting the installation, please close any running applications.
•
Insert the CD of the new SOFiCAD version into your CD drive.
•
The following window will appear automatically:
•
Select the link ... to SOFiCAD – Continue here (eng.)
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 20 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
•
The following window opens:
•
To start the installation, select in the menue “install” SOFiCAD 16.2/16.3.
•
From the appearing dialogue window, select the language in which you would like to install SOFiCAD 16.2/16.3
Setup now prepares the InstallShield Wizard for the SOFiCAD installation. Subsequently the following dialogue window appears:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 21 of 157
Installation
•
SOFiCAD
Select Next>, in order to proceed with the installation
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 22 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
License Agreement In the following dialogue window, the license agreement will appear. It contains important information for your license agreement. You have to accept the agreement.
•
Carefully read the entire General Terms of Delivery of the SOFiSTiK AG.
•
Should you accept them, please activate the field “I accept the terms of the license agreement” and select Continue in order to proceed with the intallation routine.
If you decline the terms of the license agreement, select EXIT in order to exit the installation. You can conduct the installation at any later point.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 23 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Select AutoCAD Profile Existing profile In the following dialogue window, any user profiles defined in AutoCAD will be shown . If you would like to install more than one SOFiCAD version on your computer, you must use a proper profile for every version in a proper directory. If you install an update, where you replace an older version with the newer one, you can continue using the old profiles.
•
Select the profile, which you would like to use with the SOFiCAD version to be installed.
•
Select Continue to proceed with the installation.
New Profiles In the following dialogue window any defined AutoCAD user profiles will be shown: If you would like to install more than one SOFiCAD version on your computer, you’ll have to use for every version a proper profile and an own directory. If you install an update whereby you replace an existing version with a newer one, you can continue using the existing profile.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 24 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
•
If you would like to configure a new profile , select the option New Profile.
•
Select Next> to proceed with the installation.
•
In the now appearing window, enter the desired name for the new profile.
•
Select Next>, to proceed with the installation.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 25 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Select Working Directory In the following window, select the working directory:
•
Select the directory, which you would like to configure as working directoy. It makes sense to select the project directory.
•
Select Next>, to proceed with the installation.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 26 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Authorization File Select the path for the authorization file Sub-sequently the following dialogue window appears:
•
Select Browse... and select the folder with the authorization file NAME.NAM.
•
Select Next>, to proceed with the installation.
Usually the authorization file NAME.NAM can be found on the authorization disc (floppy disk), which you’ve received with this or a prior SOFiCADversion. In the case of an update, you might be able to continue using the authorization file in the installation directory. If you add further modules to an already installed version, you can only continue using the authorization file, if you have access to the module to be installed and if it’s written in the authorization file. If you would like to install SOFiCAD parrallel to an already installed version, you can select the folder of the already installed version, if the authorizations file grants you access to any of the modules that should be installed.
Several Authorization Files were found If you have acquired different licenses and you therefore have different hardlocks, you’ll find several authorization files on the authorization disk (or floppy) (NAME.1, NAME.2 etc.). In this case, the following dialogue window apears:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 27 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
•
Select the authorization file, matching the hardlock in this computer.
•
Choose Next> to proceed with the installation.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 28 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Installation Type If a NAME.NAM was found in the directory for the authorization file, the following dialogue window appears. Pease select the desired installation type.
•
Carefully review and select the desired installation type.
•
Choose Next>, to proceed with the installation.
Type 1 - Standard
The installation type Standard installs SOFiCAD with most current options. The modules that should be installed will automatically be determined from the NAME.NAM file and installed in the installation directory C:\PROGRAMME\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3. The installation path can be changed! The installation jumps to Configurations Seite 33 .
Typ 2 - User
Confirming the Installation
The installation type User is only recommended for advanced SOFiCAD users. With this installation type, the user can enter the installation path and thereby i.e. install or un-install single modules. Furthermore you can choose to install modules independently of the activated (unlocked) NAME.NAM.
Installation User With Authorization File If you’ve selected the installation type User the following dialogue window appears:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 29 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
List of the feature From the list, select the module you would likt to install. installation In the right column, the selected feature will be described in brief and the required disk space will be shown.
Install to:
Select Change… and select the desired forlder, if you do not wish to install SOFiCAD in the default foulder.
Disk space
With this option you’ll receive an overview of the free and required disk space.
Installation without Authorization File If an authorization file cannot be found in the selected folder the dialogue window for the “Customized installation” appears:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 30 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
•
Proceed as described in Installation User.
•
Select Next>, if you would like to proceed with the installation without an authorization file. Before you start SOFiCAD, the authorization file must be copied into the installation directory.
Select Back, if you would like to choose an other directory for the authorization file. (This is only required for the very first installation!)
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 31 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Select Program Folder Sub-sequently the following window appears:
•
If you don’t wish to install the program symbols into the default folder, enter the new folder name or select an existing folder from the list.
•
Choose Next> to proceed with the installation.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 32 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Confirming the Installation Configurations The installation has enough information to start to copy the data. Your configurations you’ve choosen are displayed in the following dialogue window:
•
Carefully review and check the configurations.
•
Select Next>, to start copying the files.
If you choose to change the configurations, select Back> until you reach the dialogue window, where you can change your configurations. Subsequentially select Next> to proceed with the installation. The selected configurations are already entered in the single dialogue windows.
SETUP.TXT In the following dialogue window, the file SET.TXT appears. The file contains important information to install SOFiCAD.
•
Carefully review and read the information.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 33 of 157
Installation
•
SOFiCAD
If you’ve met every requirement, select to proceed with the installation. If you haven’t met every requirement, please select Exit to exit the istallation. You can conduct the installation procedure at a later time.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 34 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
InstallShield Copies the Files InstallShield now copies the relevant files for the modules, inserts entries to start SOFiCAD and to call the Help files in the startup menu and it installs the hardlock driver for the copy protection. In order to install the hardlock driver, administrator rights are required for the computer. If you do not have the administrator rights, the administrator can install the hardlock driver sub-sequently.
If you should incure troubles with the drivers for third party software, which also use FAST hardlock drivers - you can also install hardlock drivers manually. If you’ve selected the module Mass Determination, Direct Access Objects (DAO) will automativally be installed. During the installation of DAO an English dialogue box appears due to technical reasons. Select Next, and don’t exit the installation – otherwise, SOFiCAD will not be installed correctly.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 35 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Installation of the Hardlock Driver Sub-sequently to the installation of the SOFiSTiK program files, the installation of the hardlock driver will be started. Administrator rights are required!
•
Select Next>, to continue the installation.
After the successful installation of the hardlock driver, return to the SOFiCAD installation.
InstallShield completed The following dialogue windo appears:
SOFiCAD has been installed on your computer. Carefully read the file README.TXT, it contains important information about SOFiCAD.
•
Select Finish (Complete), to complete the installation.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 36 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Change/Repair/Remove Installation General Start the installation routine again.
•
Select Next>, to continue the installation.
•
Select the desired option: Change program, Repair program, Remove program.
•
Select Next>, to proceed the installation.
Change program With the option change program, you can install additional features. You can change the type of feature installation in the dialogue window.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 37 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Please, do not remove the programs module by module, but uninstall the entire program completely! Repair Program With this option, you can repair damaged files, shortcuts and registry entries.
Remove Program With the option “Remove SOFiCAD 16.3 from this computer”, the de-installation procedure will start. Prior to de-installation, you will be asked to confirm the de-installation.
•
Select Remove, to proceed with uninstalling.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 38 of 157
Installation
The
following
SOFiCAD
window
appears,
once
the
procedure
is
com-
pleted:
•
Select Finish (complete), to exit the InstallShield.
Network Hardlock Additionally to the option installing the version in the network, we also offer the option to work with a network hardlock. It means that one hardlock will be mounted and installed on a server and that the single work station query licenses from there. For this procedure, a special NAME.NAM is required. Please ask our order processing department which you can reach via Email at
[email protected].
Installation The network hardlock version works in networks with IPX-Protocols (Novell), Netbios or TCP/IP. However we strongly recommend using exclusively TCP/IP. In order to install it, the HL-SERVER needs to be installed and/or mounted on a server or a not frequently used, but permanently operating PC in the network (Print- or Mail Server). On the CD you’ll find a directory \hardlock\hlserver. The current installation can be found in the README and PDF files in this same directory. Start on the computer with the hardlock server the hl-Server-Service (and only on this computer!!):
1. Install AKSMON32.EXE 2. Start the Aladdin AKS Monitor 3. Select the computer marked as "local" 4. Enter the module address 30658 and press ADD 5. Click the green traffic light to start the service
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 39 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
In order o find a HL-server via IPX from other segments, the SAP Agent must be active (control panel -> network -> Software -> SAP -> Agent).
The Windows 95 Server-application will directly be started with:
•
HLS32 -m:30658
For the clients the search order of the protocols and the IP-addresses has to be entered. Several environmet variables are available for this task:
•
set HL_SEARCH=IP,IPX,portadresse
•
set HLS_IPADDR=_
Please consider that some software vendors simply set such registries without asking back and they therefore could deactivate a locale hardlock.
Unblocking Licenses In the case of a program crash logins might remain in the network hardlock. They can either be removed with the AKS-Monitor from any work station or they can be removed from the workstation in batch operation with the following command:
hlogout 30658
It might be usefull to take the commany into a startup-skript (AUTOEXEC.BAT).
Checking the Hardlock Local Hardlock In the sub-directory of your SOFiCAD installation you can find the file HLINFO.EXE. Start it with a double click. The following dialogue window appears:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 40 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Hrer you can see the numers of any hardlock that was found . The hardlock number must match the NAME.NAM. Please read the comments in the corresponding chapter NAME.NAM . Further you can find out your client reference number here. You need it, every time you make a query to our hotline.
Network Hardlock In order to check the network hardlock you first have to open a DOS-Window. Now change into the sub-directory of your SOFiCAD installation. Start the program HLINFO with the option /N by entering HLINFO.EXE /N (the Option /N starts the search for the network hardlock). The following dialogue window appears:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 41 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
The addition remote shows, that the found hardlock is in the network – for the example hardlock four logins are registered.
NAME.NAM The NAME.NAM in SOFiCAD serves as authorization file. In this file, the authorizations zations and and the the hardlock hardlock number number are are registered. registered. NEVER change the NAME.NAM file! The stored coding will be lost and the file will be unvalid. 1. Line
NAME.NAM for local hardlock The first line contains the year in which the NAME.NAM was generated (in this case 2002), the hardlock number (here: 20m), the client reference number (here: 9998). 2002 0611 000000020m000009998 000000000 000000000 0000 0196 <
Network NAME.NAM In this case the hardlick number is encrypted: for the hardlock 100 we have the number 9932m (for Hardlock 101 it would be 9933m etc.). 2002 0611 000009932m000009998 099:01164 000000000 0000 0196 <
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 42 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Time Limited NAME.NAM The first line of the time limited NAME.NAM is not different from the general one.
Modules
NAME.NAM for Local Hardlock The following lines contain the authorizations for the modules, which you are allowed to use. Further more you can also find the year of authorization.
2002NN001 SOF+ M2D M3D SOFQ SLAB SOFX SLAX XXXX WIND WINS < 2002NN001 SOFI SOFB STLI STL1 ROSY BAMT SOFP SOFS SOFV SOFF < 2002NN001 SOFA SOFW SOFM SOFU SOU1 SOUE SOUP XXXX XXXX XXXX <
Network NAME.NAM The amount of the authorizations of single modules can be found in the number following NN. The amount does not have to be unitary..
2002NN024 SOF+ M2D M3D SOFQ SLAB SOFX SLAX XXXX WIND WINS < 2002NN024 SOFI SOFB STLI STL1 ROSY BAMT SOFP SOFS SOFV SOFF < 2002NN024 SOFA SOFW SOFM SOFU SOU1 SOUE SOUP BFES XXXX XXXX <
Time Limited NAME.NAM A time limited NAME.NAM can be recognized by the signs inbetween the different modules. They show the encrypted time frame of the authorization. 2002NN001 SOF+QM2D QM3D QSOFQQSLABQXXXX XXXX XXXX WINDQWINSQ< 2002NN001 SOFIQSOFBQSTLIQSTL1QROSYQBAMTQSOFPQSOFSQSOFVQSOFMQ< 2002NN001 SOFAQSOFWQSOFFQXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX <
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 43 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
Address Following you can find your office address in the NAME.NAM . It appears i.e. in the steel list.
SOFiSTiK AG Niederlassung Nürnberg < < SOFiSTiK AG Burgschmietstr. 40 90419 Nürnberg <<<<<<<<<<<<< 48 < SOFiSTiK AG * 90419 Nürnberg <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< 40 < SOFiSTiK AG * Burgschmietstraße 40 * 90419 Nürnberg <
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 44 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
ServicePacks Where can I find ServicePacks? Updated (actualized) versions of the current SOFiCAD can be found in the internet on an irregular basis. You can find the actualized files following the link ServicePacks for SOFiCAD .
How can I install ServiePacks? The extracting of the ZIP-files must be conducted with "Path indication” – the reason being that the language-depending files will be extracted in the subdirectories German or English. If this is not done, it might happen, that the last installed language depending files, as they have the same names, overwrite the earlier installed files.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 45 of 157
Installation
SOFiCAD
The automatical extracting with path indication will be conducted automatically, if you double click the downloaded EXE-files. Now you only have to select the directory of your SOFiCAD-installation. How do I find out about new features? Should there be new ServicePacks available, we post an entry in the Forum, Topic "CAD SOFiCAD" in the area "Neuigkeiten von SOFiSTiK, SOFiCAD und Statik". If you are registered in the Forum, you can subscribe to the article and you will then automatically be notified per Email if anything concerning this matter is posted. You can find the Forum following the link www.sofistik.de/Forum . You can find a guide of how to register in the Forum in the chapter Registrationation on page 15. If you are logged in the Forum, go to the area “Neuigkeiten von SOFiSTiK, SOFiCAD und Statik” in the article CAD SOFiCAD. At the chapter headline you can find the comment / button "Dieses Thema abonnieren" (subscribe this topic). If you chose to do that, you’ll automatically receive an Email, if a new article was posted. It always happens, if a new ServicePacks are released.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 46 of 157
Starting SOFiCAD
SOFiCAD
Starting SOFiCAD In the following chapter, you will learn how to start SOFiCAD, once the installation is completed. Furthermore we describe how you can customize the automatically generated short cuts to start SOFiCAD, i.e. using a different working directory. Starting SOFiCAD
Icon The SOFiCAD installation automatically generates a SOFiCAD shortcut on your desktop to start the program. The following picture shows what it looks like:
When you double-click the shortcut, AutoCAD will start with the installed SOFiCAD-Profile. It can happen, that the tool boxes are still not ordered after you’ve started SOFiCAD. You can sort them with the command Sort Toolboxes, via SOFiCAD -> SOFiCAD -> Settings -> sort toolboxes.
Start Menu The SOFiCAD intallation automatically generates an entry in the Windows Start Menu. With it you start SOFiCAD as well. You can find it at Start -> Programs -> SOFiCAD 2002 16.2 or SOFiCAD 2004 16.3. Select the icon with the SOFiCAD entry there. Furthermore you can start the help, subsequently install the hardlock driver and start the program help HLINFO via the path.
Editing Short Cuts You can subsequently change and edit the automatically generated short cuts – with them you can start SOFiCAD.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 47 of 157
Starting SOFiCAD
SOFiCAD
Target Here we show with which profile and which drawing template AutoCAD will start. /P "SOFiCAD 2004 163"
After the sign /P the profile is defined. Should the profile name contain spaces, like in the example, the name must be in quotation marks.
/t "sofstart.dwt"
Afer ther sign /t the AutoCAD design template is defined. Should you have an own template you can also define them. If you would like to start without a template, remove the entry.
Execute in… This describes the working directory. It’s important for the AutoCAD search paths (more information regarding this topic can be found in the chapter Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) on page 75).
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 48 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
General Functionalities (Features) In the following chapters we’ll describe general functionalities which are available when working with AutoCAD and SOFiCAD. The SOFiCAD functionalities are module spanned which means they are available in any SOFiCAD module.
AutoCAD AutoCAD is a powerful 2D- and 3D design platform for automizing design procedures. Due to its digital tools you can emphazise to on the design procedure, rather than concentrating on the software. Architects, engineers, and shop drawers use AutoCAD to design, show (display), administer, plot as well as to commonly use and re-use exact and data intensive drawings (designs).
Layouts (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) The AutoCAD window offers two parallel work environments, which are repressented by the index tabs Model and Layout (Plan). On the index tab Model, you draw a model for your intended project. On the index tab Layout you can arrange different views of the model. Every Layout represents one drawing sheet, on which one or several views of the model can be shown in different scales.
•
The index tab Model represents an unlimited drawing area (space). In the Model Area you draw (design) with a 1:1 scale and decide, whether one unit represents an inch (for a mechanism detail or a meter (for a building structure).
•
Layout index tabs access virtual drawing sheets. If you set up a Layout, enter the paper fomate that should be used by AutoCAD. The Layout represents the drawing sheet. The Layout environment is called plan area.
In a Layout you can generate and position view windows such as dimensions, a text filed or add other geometries. View windows contain the model area objects of a drawing (design), which means the objects which you have generated (entered) in the index tab Model. Each view window can represent the model area objects with a defined scaling factor. You can create several Layouts in one drawing, where every Layout can contain different plot settings or paper formats. A new drawing is opened with two Layout index tabs, Layout1 and Layout2 by default. If you use a template, the default Layout configuration could be different to your drawing.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 49 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
You can create a completely new Layout. Work with the Layout wizard or import a layout from a template. If you create a new Layout, only the first time, you are asked to enter information regarding the page set up. If you make a right-mouse click on a Layout index tab a context menu will open, it contains options for the following functions:
•
Create a new Layout
•
Import a Layout from an existing drawing
•
Delete a Layout
•
Re-Name a Layout
•
Change the order of the index tabs
•
Create a new Layout based on an existing one
•
Select all Layouts
•
Create page settings for the current Layout
•
Plott a Layout
DesignCenter (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) Re-use and common utilization of the content are indispensable for efficiently administer a drawing object. In order to re-use drawing contents create block references and assign external references (XRefs). With the AutoCAD DesignCenter you can administer Clock references and XRefs. Furthermore you can speed up the drawing process when you have several drawings open, by copying certain contents and inserting them in another drawing i.e. Layer definitions, Layouts, text stiles. With the AutoCAD DesignCenter you have access to the following functions:
•
Browse for drawing content, such as drawings or symbol libraries, on a Web page.
•
View definition tables for named objects such as blocks and layers, in any drawing file and insert, attach, or copy and paste the definitions into the current drawing
•
Create shortcuts to drawings, folders, and Internet locations that you access frequently
•
Find drawing content on your computer and on networked drives
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 50 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
•
SOFiCAD
Control the display of palette contents by switching between large and small icons, lists, and details.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 51 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
The Structure of the DesignCenter Window The first time you open DesignCenter, it is displayed in the default position, docked at the left of the drawing area. The palette displays large icons; the tree view on the left displays the Desktop tree. Use the tree view to browse sources of content and load content into the palette. Use the Symbol Library tab in AutoCAD Today to locate and load a symbol library into the palette Undocked, the DesignCenter window appears as shown.
Viewing areas in DesignCenter include the tree view and the palette. The tree view is located in the left portion of the DesignCenter window and the palette in the right portion. Below the palette, you can also display a previewor a descrip-
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 52 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
tion of a selected drawing, block, hatch pattern, or xref. A toolbar at the top of the window provides several options and operations.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 53 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Property Dialogue (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) The window Properties can be docked in the drawing area. If you would like to undock or hide the window, make a right-click with your mouse or indicator and select from the context menu the option allow or Disable docking.
While the property window is open, you can continue working with AutoCAD and enter commands. When you double-click an object, the Properties window displays the properties of that object. When multiple objects are selected, the Properties window displays the general properties and any other properties that are common to all objects in the selection set. The object properties are sorted by the alphabet or according to their category – depending on the selected index tab. To modify properties using the Properties
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 54 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
window, select the object whose properties you want to change and use one of the following methods:
•
Enter a new value.
•
Select a value from a list
•
Change the property value in a dialog box.
•
Use the Pick Point button to change a coordinate value.
The button select objects in the properties window allow access to any selection method, such as z. B. fence, CPolygon etc., via the command line. Click Select objects, select the desired object with any method and press ENTER. Then change the common properties of the selected objects in the properties window or modify the selected objects by entering the editing comman.
Grips (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) Gripsare small boxes that appear at strategic points on objects selected with a pointing device. You can drag these grips to perform stretch, move, rotate, scale, or mirror operations. With grips you can combine command and object selection and therefore edit more quickly. When grips are on, you select the objects you want before entering a command, and then you manipulate the objects with the pointing device.
To use grips, select a grip to act as the base point for the action. Then select one of the grip modes. You can cycle through these modes by pressing ENTER or SPACEBAR. You also can use keyboard shortcuts or right-click to see all of the modes and options.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 55 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
The graphics cursor snaps to any grip over which it is moved. When grips are on, objects that are removed from a grip selection set are no longer highlighted, but their grips remain active. Active grips are useful as temporary snap locations for grip editing. You can use multiple grips as the base grips to keep the shape of the object intact between the selected grips. Hold down SHIFT as you select the grips.
Strech with Grips You can stretch an object by moving selected grips to new locations. Grips on text, block references, midpoints of lines, centers of circles, and point objects move the object rather than stretching it. This is an excellent method for moving block references and adjusting dimensions.
Move with Grips You can move objects by the grip selected. Selected objects are highlighted and are moved the direction and distance of the next point location you specify.
Rotate with Grips You can rotate selected objects around a base point by dragging and specifying a point location. Alternatively, you can enter an angle value. This is an excellent method for rotating block references.
Scale with Grips You can scale selected objects relative to a base point. Increase the size of an object by dragging outward from the base grip and specifying a point location, or decrease the size by dragging inward. Alternatively, you can enter a value for relative scaling.
Mirror with Grips You can mirror selected objects across a temporary mirror line. Turning Ortho on helps you specify a vertical or horizontal mirror line.
Mouse wheel (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) The IntelliMouse is a two button mouse with a little wheel between the buttons. Left and right buttons behave the same as they do on a standard mouse. You can rotate the wheel by discrete values. You can use the wheel to zoom and pan in your drawing without using any AutoCAD commands. By default, the zoom factor is set to 10 percent; each increment in the wheel rotation changes the zoom level by 10 percent. The ZOOMFACTOR system variable controls the incremental change, whether forward or backward. The higher the number, the larger the change.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 56 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
The following table lists the IntelliMouse mouse actions supported in AutoCAD. To…
Do this…
Zoom in or out
Rotate the wheel forward to zoom in, backward to zoom out
Zoom to drawing extents
Doubble click the wheel button
Pan
Hold down the wheel button and drag the mouse
Pan (Joystick)
Hold down CTRL and drag the mouse
Display the Object Snap menu
With the MBUTTONPAN system variable set to 0, click the wheel button Fur further information see chapter MBUTTONPAN on page 74
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 57 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Purge (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) With the command PURGE you can delete unused elements from the drawing.
Command Enter PURGE in the command line.
Elements which cannot be used in the drawing Lists the named objects that are not used in the current drawing and that can be purged. You can list the items for any object type by clicking the plus sign or by double-clicking the object type. You purge items by selecting the item to purge. Purge Nested Items removes items only when you choose
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 58 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
•
All Items or Blocks in the tree view
•
The Purge All button
SOFiCAD
Confirm Each Item to Be Purged Displays the Verify Purge dialog box when you purge an item.
Purge Nested Items Removes all unused named objects from the drawing even if they are contained within or referenced by other unused named objects. The Verify Purge dialog box is displayed, and you can cancel or confirm the items to be purged.
View Items You Cannot Purge Switches the tree view to display a summary of named objects in the current drawing that you can't purge.
Items Currently Used in Drawing Lists named objects that cannot be removed from the drawing. Most of these objects are currently used in the drawing or are default items that cannot be removed. When you select individual named objects, information about why you can't purge the item is displayed below the tree view.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 59 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Layer (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) By creating layers, you can associate similar types of objects by assigning them to the same layer. For example, you can put construction lines, text, dimensions, and title blocks on separate layers. The amount of layers, which you can create in a drawing, as well as the amount of objects, which you can draw per layer is pactically unlimited. Layers are usually assigned to conceptional groups (i.e. wlla or dimensions). Layers can have alphanumerical names with up to 255 characters. In many cases the layer names are defined by the company, the industry or the client.
The layer property manager sorts the layers alphabetically according to their names. Carefully selct the layer names, if you organize your own layer scheme. For names of layers that have belonging drawing components, use consistent prefixes – then it’s easier for you to find the layers using filters or placeholders. Annotation: If you use a certain layer scheme consitently, you could create a template, which already has layer, line types and colours.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 60 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Copying layers from other drawings With the AutoCAD DesignCenter you can grad layers from one drawing to another one. Example: You are using a drawing with every standar layer, which are required for a project. To save time and to garatee the consistency of the drawings you can create a new drawing and drag the predefined layers in the new drawing using the DesignCenter. You can also drag or copy layers by double clicking on them or by choosing from the context menu the oprion insert. Annotation: You need to resolve duplicate layer names before you drag layers from DesignCenter.
Select a Layer to Draw On As you draw, AutoCAD places newly created objects on the current layer. The current layer may be the default layer (0) or a layer you create and name yourself. You switch from one layer to another by making a different layer current, and any subsequent objects you create are associated with the new current layer and use its color and linetype. You cannot make a layer the current layer if it is frozen or if it is an xref-dependent layer
Remove Layers You can remove unused layers from your drawing with PURGE or by deleting the layer from the Layer Properties Manager. Layer 0 is the default layer for all drawings and cannot be removed.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 61 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Object Snaps (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) Object snaps constrain point specification to exact locations, such as a midpoint or an intersection, on existing objects. Using object snaps is a quick way to locate an exact position on an object without having to know the coordinate or draw construction lines. For example, you can use an object snap to draw a line to the center of a circle or to the midpoint of a polyline segment. You can specify an object snap whenever AutoCAD prompts for a point. For a list of object snap modes, see OSNAP.
If AutoSnap is turned on, AutoCAD displays a marker and a tooltip whenever you move the target box over a snap point. This feature provides a visual clue that indicates which object snaps are in effect. There are a variety of ways to turn on object snaps. If you choose an individual object snap on the toolbar or enter its name on the command line, the snap stays in effect only for the next point you specify. You also can set running object snaps, that is, one or more object snaps that remain in effect as you work. Choose None to turn off both single and running object snaps
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 62 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Snap to a Single Point When you specify an object snap, the cursor changes to an object snap target box. When you select an object, AutoCAD snaps to the eligible snap point closest to the center of the target box, or aperture. The object snap buttons are located on the Object Snap flyout on the Standard toolbar
Use Running Object Snaps If you need to use the same object snap repeatedly, you can set it as a running object snap, which means it stays on until you turn it off. For example, you might set Center as a running object snap if you need to connect the centers of a series of circles with a line. As with single object snaps, the aperture, or target box, indicates that an object snap is on and identifies the selection area. You can change the size of the target box. When you turn on multiple running object snaps, AutoCAD uses the object snap most appropriate to the object you select. If two potential snap points fall within the selection area, AutoCAD snaps to the eligible point closest to the center of the target box.
Note: If several running object snaps are on, you need to check which one is in effect when you specify a point. If more than one object snap is eligible at a given location, press the TAB key to cycle through the possibilities before you specify the point.
Object Snap Restrictions Most of the object snaps that are described here affect only objects visible on the screen, including objects on locked layers, layout viewport boundaries, and polyline segments. You cannot snap to objects that are not visible, such as objects that are not displayed, objects on turned-off or frozen layers, or the blank portions of dashed lines. Object snaps work only when AutoCAD prompts for a point. If you try to use an object snap at the Command prompt, AutoCAD displays an error message.
Object Snap Tracking (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) Use object snap tracking to track along alignment paths that are based on object snap points. Acquired points display a small plus sign (+), and you can acquire up to seven tracking points at a time. After you acquire a point, horizontal, vertical, or polar alignment paths relative to the point are displayed as you move the
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 63 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
cursor over their drawing paths. For example, you can select a point along a path based on an object endpoint or midpoint or an intersection between objects.
In the following illustration, the Endpoint object snap is on. You start a line by clicking its start point (1), move the cursor over another line's endpoint (2) to acquire it, and then move the cursor along the horizontal alignment path to locate the endpoint you want for the line you are drawing (3).
Change Object Snap Tracking Settings By default, object snap tracking is set to orthogonal. Alignment paths are displayed at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees from acquired object points. However, you can use polar tracking angles instead. For object snap tracking, AutoCAD automatically acquires object points. However, you can choose to acquire points only when you press SHIFT.
Change Alignment Path Display You can change how AutoTrack displays alignment paths, and you can change how AutoCAD acquires object points for object snap tracking. By default, alignment paths stretch to the end of the drawing window. You can change their display to abbreviated lengths, or no length
Tips for Using Object Snap Tracking As you use AutoTrack (polar snap tracking and object snap tracking), you will discover techniques that make specific design tasks easier. Here are a few you might try:
•
Use Perpendicular, End, and Mid object snaps with object snap tracking to draw to points that are perpendicular to the end and midpoints of objects.
•
Use the Tangent and End object snaps with object snap tracking to draw to points that are tangent to the endpoints of arcs.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 64 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
•
Use object snap tracking with temporary tracking points. At a point prompt, enter tt, and then specify a temporary tracking point. A small + appears at the point. As you move your cursor, AutoTrack alignment paths are displayed relative to the temporary point. To remove the point, move the cursor back over the +.
•
After you acquire an object snap point, use direct distance to specify points at precise distances along alignment paths from the acquired object snap point. To specify a point prompt, select an object snap, move the cursor to display an alignment path, and then enter a distance at the Command prompt.
•
Use the Automatic and Shift to Acquire options set on the Drafting tab of the Options dialog box to manage point acquisition. Point acquisition is set to Automatic by default. When working in close quarters, press SHIFT to temporarily avoid acquiring a point.
Plotting (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) Plot-Manager The Plotter Manager is a window that lists plotter configuration (PC3 files) for every nonsystem printer that you install. Plotter configuration files can also be created for Windows system printers if you want AutoCAD to use default properties different from those used by Windows. Plotter configuration settings specify port information, raster and vector graphics quality, paper sizes, and custom properties that depend on the plotter type. The Plotter Manager contains the Add-a-Plotter wizard, which is the primary tool for creating plotter configurations. The Add-a-Plotter wizard prompts you for information about the plotter you want to set up. Layouts A layout represents a plotted page. You can create as many layouts as you need. Each layout is saved on its own layout tab and can be associated with a different page size and plotter. Elements that only appear on a plotted page, such as title blocks and notes, are drawn in paper space in a layout. The objects in the drawing are created in model space on the Model tab. To view these objects in the layout, you create layout viewports.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 65 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Page Setups When you create a layout, you specify a plotter and settings such as page size and plot orientation. You can control these settings for layouts and for the Model tab using the Page Setup dialog box. You can name and save page setups for use with other layouts. If you don't specify all the settings in the Page Setup dialog box when you create a layout, you can set up the page just before you plot. Or you can override a page setup at plot time. You can use the new page setup temporarily for the current plot, or you can save the new page setup. Plot Styles A plot style controls how an object or layer is plotted by determining plotted properties such as lineweight, color, and fill style. Plot style tables collect groups of plot styles. The Plot Style Manager is a window that shows all the plot style tables available in AutoCAD. There are two plot style types: color-dependent and named. A drawing can only use one type of plot style table. You can convert a plot style table from one type to the other. You can also change the type of plot style table a drawing uses once it has been set. For color-dependent plot style tables, an object's color determines how it is plotted. These plot style table files have .ctb extensions. You cannot assign colordependent plot styles directly to objects. Instead, to control how an object is plotted, you change its color. For example, all objects assigned the color red in a drawing plot the same way
Named plot style tables use plot styles that are assigned directly to objects and layers. These plot style table files have .stb extensions. Using them enables each object in a drawing to be plotted differently, independent of its color.
Multiple Document (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) You can open several drawings during one AutoCAD session. In order to activate a drawing in this case, click on any place in the desired drawing. With STRG + F6 or STRG + TAB key, you can switch between the open files. For certain long lasting operations such as regenerating the drawing, however this procedure is not possible. Use the Window menu to control the display of multiple drawings in an AutoCAD session. You can cascade open drawings or tile them vertically or horizontally. When you have a number of drawings minimized, you can use Arrange Icons to clean up the display of the minimized drawing icons in the AutoCAD window. You
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 66 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
can also select a drawing from the list of open drawings at the bottom of this menu You can quickly reference other drawings, copy and paste between drawings, or drag selected objects from one drawing to another with the right button on your pointing device. You can also use Match Properties (MATCHPROP) to copy properties from objects in one drawing to objects in another drawing. You can use AutoCAD object snaps, the Copy with Basepoint (COPYBASE) command, and the Paste to Original Coordinates (PASTEORIG) command to ensure accurate placement, especially when copying objects from one drawing to another.
Saving files (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) The drawings are saved just like in any other Windows applications. AutoCAD furthermore contins the functions to automatically save, generate backup copies and other saving functions. While you’re working on a drawing, you should save on a regular basis. Thereby you prevent loss of data due to electricity failures or other unexpected events. If you would like to create a new version of your drawing, without deleting the old one, go ahead and save the new drawing under a different name. The file extensions for AutoCAD drawings are .dwg.
Automatic Saves If you turn on the option for automatic saves, AutoCAD will save your drawing on a regular basis. By default, automatically saved files receive the temporary name Filename_a_b_nnnn.sv$. The file name is the name of the current drawing, a is the amount of open instances of the same drawing file in the same AutoCAD session, b is the amount of open instantces of the same drawing during different sessions on AutoCAD and nnnn is a random number generated by AutoCAD. Files that are automatically saved will be deleted, if AutoCAD closes a drawing in the normal way. Saved files will remain in the event of a sudden electricity failure or a system crash. You can determine the position of any file for automatical saving with the system vaariables using SAVEFILEPATH. SAVEFILE (write-protected) saves the name of the file for automatical saving.
•
Minutes between saving procedures: Determines how often drawings will be saved automatically. This value will be stored in the system variable SAVETIME.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 67 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Backup Copy When you save a named drawing for the first time, AutoCAD creates a backup copy of the drawing using the .bak file name extension. Each time you use SAVE or SAVEAS with the current drawing name, AutoCAD updates the backup file. If your program terminates unexpectedly, AutoCAD tries to rename the backup file to prevent the corrupted file from replacing the existing backup file. AutoCAD renames the backup file with the .bk1 file name extension if that file does not exist. If that backup file exists, AutoCAD generates new file types in the sequence .bk2 to .bk9, .bka to .bkz, .baa to .bzz until it finds a unique file name.
If your system fails and the backup file contains the previous version of the drawing file, copy the backup file to a safe place in case you need to revert to that version. To use the backup copy of the drawing, rename the file with a .dwg extension.
Backup Copy whenever you save Determines if a backup copy should be generated when you save the file. The backup copy will be created in the same directory like the drawing. The option can also be activated with the system variable ISAVEBAK
Use Windows Cut, Copy, and Paste (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) When you want to use objects from an AutoCAD drawing file in another application, cut or copy these objects to the Clipboard and then paste them from the Clipboard into your file Cut Objects Cutting deletes selected objects from the drawing and stores them on the Clipboard. The objects are now available to be pasted into other Windows documents. Copy Objects You can use the Clipboard to copy part or all of a drawing into a document created by another application. The AutoCAD objects are copied in vector format, which retains the high resolution in other applications. These objects are stored in WMF (Windows metafile) format in the Clipboard. The information stored in the Clipboard can then be embedded in the other document. Updating the original drawing does not update the copy embedded in the other application.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 68 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Paste Objects Applications use different internal formats to store Clipboard information. When you copy objects to the Clipboard, AutoCAD stores information in all available formats. When you paste the Clipboard contents into an AutoCAD drawing, AutoCAD uses the format that retains the most information. However, you can override this setting and convert pasted information to AutoCAD format. Because it is the easiest format to edit, the AutoCAD format is the preferred format for copying objects to and from AutoCAD. It retains all relevant object information, including block references and 3D aspects. The Windows metafile (picture) format contains screen vector information, and files can be scaled and printed without losing resolution. Use this format to paste objects into Windows applications that support WMF files-. Metafiles pasted into AutoCAD are of higher resolution than bitmapped images (BMP files) but are not as easily manipulated as AutoCAD objects. The color of the object doesn't change when copied to the Clipboard. For example, white objects pasted onto a white background won't be visible. Use the WMFBKGND and WMFFOREGND system variables to control whether the background or foreground is transparent for metafile objects pasted into other applications. Bitmapped images are raster images consisting of a pattern of pixels and are commonly used by paint applications. You can insert a linked or embedded object from the Clipboard into an AutoCAD drawing with PASTESPEC. If you convert pasted information to AutoCAD format, the object is inserted as a block reference. To edit the pasted information, explode the block reference into its component objects. When you convert a Windows metafile stored on the Clipboard to AutoCAD format, you may lose some scaling precision. To retain proper scaling, save objects in the original drawing as a block (WBLOCK), and then insert them into AutoCAD using INSERT.
Variables (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) System variables are configurations that control the functions of certain commands. With them you can turn on or off the modi such as Snap, Raster or Ortho. The system variable can determine the default scaling for hatching patterns. Information about the current drawing and the AutoCAD configuration can be saved. Sometimes you change a seting using system variables. In different cases the current state can be displayed using a system variable. I.e. the system variable GRIDMODE turns the display of the raster on or off if you change the value. In this case the system variable GRIDMODE functionally has the same value as the command RASTER. DATE is a write protected system
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 69 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
variable where the current date is saved. You can display the value, but you cannor change it. You can change the settings of your variables transparently, while using a differrent command. The new values may however be active only after the intereupted command has been exited. In the following we describe and explain a few variables: FILEDIA Typ: Integer Saved in: Registration Initial value: 1 Suppresses display of the file dialog boxes: 0
Does not display dialog boxes. You can still request a file dialog box to appear by entering a tilde (~) in response to the command's prompt. The same is true for AutoLISP and ADS functions.
1
Displays file dialog boxes. However, if a script or AutoLISP/ObjectARX™ program is active, AutoCAD displays an ordinary prompt.
CMDDIA In order to guarantee the display of the dialogue windows, the variable CMDDIA must be configured analogely to the variable FILEDIA . ATTDIA Typ: Integer Saved in: Registry Initial value: 0 Controls whether the INSERT command uses a dialog box for attribute value entry. 0
Issues prompts on the command line
1
Uses a dialog box
HIGHLIGHT Typ: Integer Not saved
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 70 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Initial value: 1 Controls object highlighting; does not affect objects selected with grips 0
Turns off object selection highlighting
1
Turns on object selection highlighting
UCSFOLLOW Typ: Integer Saved in: Drawing (viewport specific) Initial value: 0 Generates a plan view whenever you change from one UCS to another. Set UCSFOLLOW separately for each viewport. If UCSFOLLOW is on for a particular viewport, AutoCAD generates a plan view in that viewport whenever you change coordinate systems. Once the new UCS has been established, you can use DVIEW, PLAN, VIEW, or VPOINT to change the view of the drawing. It will change to a plan view again the next time you change coordinate systems. 0
UCS does not affect the view
1
Any UCS change causes a change to the plan view of the new UCS in the current viewport
The setting of UCSFOLLOW is maintained separately for paper space and model space and can be accessed in either, but the setting is ignored while in paper space (it is always treated as if set to 0). Although you can define a non-world UCS in paper space, the view remains in plan view to the world coordinate system. OSNAPCOORD Typ: Integer Saved in: Registry Initial value: 2 Controls whether coordinates entered on the command line override running object snaps. 0
Running object snap settings override keyboard coordinate entry
1
Keyboard entry overrides object snap settings
2
Keyboard entry overrides object snap settings except in scripts
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 71 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
ISAVEPERCENT Typ: Integer Saved in: Registry Initial value: 50 Determines the amount of wasted space tolerated in a drawing file. The value of ISAVEPERCENT is an integer between 0 and 100. The default value of 50 means that the estimate of wasted space within the file does not exceed 50 percent of the total file size. Wasted space is eliminated by periodic full saves. When the estimate exceeds 50 percent, the next save will be a full save. This resets the wasted space estimate to 0. If ISAVEPERCENT is set to 0, every save is a full save. TEXTFILL Type: Integer Saved in: Registry Initial value: 1 Controls the filling of TrueType fonts while plotting and rendering. 0
Displays text as outlines
1
Displays text as filled images
OSMODE Type: Integer Saved in: Registry Initial value: 4133 Sets running Object Snap modes using the following bitcodes: 0 NONe 1 ENDpoint 2 MIDpoint 4 CENter 8 NODe 16 QUAdrant 32 INTersection 64 INSertion 128 PERpendicular
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 72 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
256 TANgent 512 NEArest 1024 QUIck 2048 APParent Intersection 4096 EXTension 8192 PARallel To specify more than one object snap, enter the sum of their values. For example, entering 3 specifies the Endpoint (bitcode 1) and Midpoint (bitcode 2) object snaps. Entering 16383 specifies all object snaps. When object snaps are switched off using the Osnap button on the status bar, a bitcode of 16384 (0x4000) is returned, in addition to the normal value of OSMODE. With this additional value, developers can write applications for AutoCAD, and distinguish this mode from Object Snap modes that have been turned off from within the Drafting Settings dialog box. Setting this bit toggles running object snaps off. Setting OSMODE to a value with this bit off toggles running object snaps on. MBUTTONPAN Type: Integer Saved in: Registry Initial Value: 1 Controls the behavior of the third button or wheel on the pointing device. 0
Supports the action defined in the menu (.mnu) file
1
Supports panning when you hold and drag the button or wheel
MEASUREMENT Type: Integer Saved in: Drawing Initial value: 0 Sets drawing units as English or metric for the current drawing only. Specifically, MEASUREMENT controls which hatch pattern and linetype files an existing drawing uses when it is opened. 0
English; uses the hatch pattern file and linetype file designated by the ANSIHatch and ANSILinetype registry settings
1
Metric; uses the hatch pattern file and linetype file designated by the
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 73 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
ISOHatch and ISOLinetype registry settings The drawing units for new drawings are controlled by MEASUREINIT (MEASUREINIT uses the same values as MEASUREMENT). The MEASUREMENT setting of a drawing always overrides the MEASUREINIT setting.
Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) The Files tab of the Options dialog box is where you set the search path AutoCAD uses to find support files such as text fonts, drawings, linetypes, and hatch patterns. The working support file search path lists paths from the support file search paths that are valid and exist in the current system directory structure (including system network mapping). Using these options helps improve performance when AutoCAD loads these files. AutoCAD searches the support-files according to the following criteria:
•
Working directory. (This is usually determined by the configuration “Working directory” in your short cut symbol.)
•
Directory that contains the current drawing file.
•
Directories in the search path under OPTIONS. For further information concerning search paths, see "Determining search paths, file names and file paths” in the utoCAD user manual.
•
Directory that contains the AutoCAD program files.
Two or several directories can be the identically, depending on the current environment.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 74 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
SOFiCAD SOFiCAD is a modular CAD-system that runs on top of AutoCAD. This means, as base for SOFiCAD, you always need AutoCAD. Thereby you have the advantage, that while working with SOFiCAD, you have access to any of the AutoCAD functionalities. SOFiCAD should be understood and used as application on and complement for for AutoCAD. Within SOFiCAD you will find certain base functions. They are equal in any module. In the following chapter we describe the most important functionalities.
Version Number Especially for Hotline queries, it is of outmost importance that you have the exact SOFiCAD version number in front of you. You receive the version number if you enter in the SOFiCAD text line the command VER.
Command: ver ACADPREFIX=C:\Programme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\;C:\Programme \SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16. 2\Support;C:\Programme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\Catalog;C:\Pro gramme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiC AD\16.2\English;C:\Programme\Gemeinsame Dateien\Autodesk Shared\;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop 3\Support;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop 3\Fonts;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop 3\Help;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop 3\drv; C:\Programme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\NAME.NAM MENUNAME=C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop 3\Support\acad SOFiCAD-Version 16.2 (Build 6) The exact version number will be received by entering the command VERB.
Befehl: verb
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 75 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
SOFiCAD-B Version 16.3 Release Candidate 1
AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.3 You can reach the AutoCAD dialog window OPTIONS via SOFICAD -> Settings > Options. Here you can determine in which folder AutoCAD should search for support- driver- menu and other files. Further more some optional user defined settings can be configured. (For further information see Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) see Page 75 )
For SOFiCAD 16.3 the following settings have to be configured in front of the AutoCAD entries: The search paths for user defines files: C:\Dokumente und Einstellungen\[Benutzer]\Lokale Einstellungen\Anwendungsdaten\... ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\deutsch ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\catalog ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\support ...Autodesk\AutoCAD
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 76 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
2004\R16.0\deu\support C:\Dokumente und Einstellungen\gg\Anwendungsdaten\Autodesk\AutoCAD2004\R16.0\deu\support; C:\Programme\... ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\ ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\deutsch ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\catalog ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\support C:\Programme\Gemeinsame Dateien\Autodesk Shared\
C:\Programme\... ...AutoCAD 2004\support ...AutoCAD 2004\fonts ...AutoCAD 2004\help ...AutoCAD 2004\drv
(The path settings are valid for Windows 2000 and Windows XP. For Windows NT "Documents and settings” has to be replaced by "Profiles")
AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.2 You can reach the AutoCAD dialog window OPTIONS via SOFICAD -> Settings > Options. Here you can determine in which folder AutoCAD should search for support- driver- menu and other files. Further more some optional user defined settings can be configured. (For further information see Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) see page 75 )
For SOFiCAD 16.2 the following entries must be at the search path for support filaas in front of the AutoCAD entries: C:\Programme\... ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\ ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\deutsch ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\catalog ...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\support C:\Programme\Gemeinsame Dateien\Autodesk Shared\
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 77 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
C:\Programme\... ...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\ ...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\support ...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\fonts ...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\express
Recovering Plans Problem After system crashes, plans can sometimes not be re-opened. There are however a few possibilities how you can repair the files. Generally the repair function in AutoCAD 2002 has substantially been improved compared to the anticipating versions. Inserting Drawing as Block Often errors in the file are reapired by inserting the drawing as block in a new file.
Procedure: •
Start SOFiCAD with a blank drawing
•
Select the command “Insert ->Block”
•
Select the drawing file to be repaired
•
Configure the following:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 78 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
•
SOFiCAD
Confirm the configurations with OK
Subsequently we recommend purging the plan of unused blocks. For purging, see the chapter Purge (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) on page 59 . Recovering
Procedure: •
Start SOFiCAD with a blank drawing
•
Select the command "File -> Utilities -> Recover..."
•
Select the desired file
•
The drawing will be analyzed concerning errors and they will be corrected if applicable
Open and Save with pure AutoCAD Sometimes it can also be helpful to load the drawing with pure AutoCAD (without SOFiCAD) and to save it.
Doubble Click In the SOFiCAD option you can configure that if you double click on an element, a dialogue window will open. In this case the corresponding dialogue for changes is called. If it’s not a SOFiCAD element, usually the properties window will open.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 79 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
SOFiMACH This command creates an equal type of object, if you select an object. By showing any object, the command that created this object will be carried out. As many properties as possible will be taken over during this procedure. For complex objects (dimension, blocks etc.) you can decide whether the complex or the shown object should be used. SOFiMACH also processes secondary scale areas.
Examples: •
Show a line: calling the command LINE with pre-selected layer, color and linetype.
•
Show a dimensioning: Call the corresponding dimensioning command with the dimensioning style of the shown element.
•
Show a hatching; hatching command with the properties of the shown hatching.
•
Show a reinforcement object: command to create extracts or distributions (layings).
SOFiMACH can also be called with the right-click menu, once a single element has been selected.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 80 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Diagnosis The program lists any SOFiSTiK specific configurations and files from the operation system and the SOFiSTiK programs. It serves as support in the event of errors (supports error search) or problems with the operation system. Besides the DIAGNOSIS.EXE the file SOF_T99.DLL is also required. The latest current one is included in the TEDDY.ZIP. You can download it on the page Freeware. Additionally the filesMFC42.DLL and MSVCRT.DLL must be present in the System32-directory.
Call •
Start the program through the menu Help -> Diagnosis
•
The DIAGNOSIS text window opens
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 81 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
•
Now you can conduct a SOFiSTiK program start test
•
Via SOFiSTiK\Properties you can define the environment variables in the SOFiSTiK.DEF
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 82 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
•
Output of the entire data in a text file for the support:
*
Select the symbol Teddy, should TEDDY not be installed, the standard editor “Notepad” will be opened.
*
A text window will open with all the data in it.
*
Save the text file and send it to the support.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 83 of 157
General Functionalities (Features)
SOFiCAD
Relative Point Entry Unlike to AutoCAD, every point entry demanded by a SOFiCAD-command (i.e. tarting- and end point) can be done via any reference point, by pressing RETURN during the point query. For the reference point query the very often needed object snap end (END) point is the default. After entering the reference point the program expects a coordinate entry relative to the reference point. This can either be entered with the keyboard, the integer keys on the tablet or screen. The @ has to be set in front as the sign for the relative coordinate. With the AutoCAD function “direct distance entry”, which is available since version 13C4, can the reference point entry can also be conducted via Show-Direction and keyboard entry of the distance. A second RETUN means usually the command end. The reference point entry can be deactivated in the SOFiCAD options.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 84 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Construction / Design The SOFiCAD Design module facilitates to create plans of any type. The program is thought to create formwork- and shop drawings as well as design (construction) plans for bridges or creating position plans.
Functionality (Features) The SOFiCAD Design module offers any possibility to create a design (construction) specific plan under AutoCAD. Working in AutoCAD with Layout indeces and view windows can substantially be facilitated with SOFiCAD Design. The configuration of the view window is done by entering the desired scale and showing the view center in the model index tab. The font sizes, dimensions and hatching automatically adapt to the scale in the view windows. The sheet margin incl. the folding marker can individually be configured. When a new page size is selected, the page margin will automatically be changed and the plan stamp will be positioned at the right place. Those who choose to exclusively work in the model tab can define secondary scale ares in SOFiCAD Construction. SOFiCAD will consider the corresponding scale in this area. SOFiCAD Design has a powerful ACCESS project data base integrated. The data of the plan and construction stamps are stored in it, and they can be accessed at any time. Changes in the data base as well as in the plan stamp and in the drawing are administered via indices. Positions such as fitted parts can be stored without redundancy and they can be viewed by any person involved in the project. Multi-project catalogues for Built-In parts are included and they can easily be modified. Commands can be entered via tool boxes, screen menus or via tablets. SOFiCAD Design excels due to its open data structure. Therefore, any layer used in the program can be administered form externally via an interface. In it, it’s determined which layer with what properties should be used by SOFiCAD. In the options you can configure the line strength and colors that should be used by SOFiCAD Design.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 85 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Dimension SOFiCAD Design offers substantial support for construction specific dimension especially to create m/cm and superposed mm. The following dimension types are supported: Linear, anglular, inclination, arch, radius and diameter dimension, level mark and coordinate dimension. Linear Linear dimension can be generated, among others, through a base line, where any intersections of this base line can be taken up into the dimension chain to the construction. The dimension chain can be positioned exactly and an additional overall dimension can be generated. The look of the dimension can be controlled with the dimensionstyle. It can be modified at any time. Addtionally it can be determined, whether the dimensioning should be carried out in m/cm mm cm or m. Any dimension as well as level marks are associative and can be modified subsequently. Linear dimension can be divided or summarized subsequently. Level Mark Just like the normal AutoCAD dimension, the level mark dimension is not linked to objects, but it is related to the reference points which belong to the level marks. When changing dimensioned objects, the relevant reference points must be taken up into the selection, in order to update the level marks. I.e. in order to move a dimensioned formwork edge, select it and the reference points of the dimension with the help of the object selection method Cross. Simply selecting the formwork edge by clicking on it is not sufficient in order to update the linked dimension. At the reference points there are also grips. Due to this, it’s the easiest way to edit level marks with the grips. The look (display) of the level marks is configured with an AutoCAD dimensionstyle, however it consideres the general scale text properties chosen in the AutoCAD Arrchitectural Dektop under Options -> AEC->Dimensions->General.
Dimension Styles Any property of an associative dimension will be stored in the dimension style. The dimension style is then a property of the correspondding dimension. Dimension styles can be changed at any time, the current drawing will be updated automatically after the change.
Position Plans We have corresponding commands to create position plans. The positioning of single- area- and line elements is done intuitively. Each change of the dialogbox has an immediate effect on the screen.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 86 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Stairs Stairs of any type can be created very comfortably in 3D. A catalogue with standard stairs incl. spiral stairs is available. They can individually be created by entering them parametrically. Further more free stairs can be constructed very easily. Stair sections or stair development are supported by the corresponding commands. Additional functions are the stair tracing, when changing the stairs geometry, changing the constructive parameters as well as creating sections and developpment of the stairs. With the SOFiCAD-stair module it’s possible to construct timber stringers and solid stairs based on any plan situation. The created drawing data can be used either in 2D or 3D.
Edit Functions To change geometries we have additional tools to the commands delivered with AutoCAD. Via the command Heal, broken lines can be blended into one element again. With „Adapt Copy + Size to view window”, dimensions, texts and hatching can be copied from one view window into another one, including automatical size adaption. Further more we have commands such as “multiple copies”, “copy and rotate”, “copy move and rotate” where several actions have been combined into one command. This saves time and additional entry effort.
Via the Split command, elements can be splitted and moved subsequently. The command „3D->2D“ takes any Z-coordinates of the drawing to 0 and deletes any object heights.
Catalogues Symbol Catalogues SOFiCAD Design contains a large pallet of symbol catalogues. From the general plan symbol, sheet pile walls to furnishing catalogues for the living area, the sanitary rooms and kitchens up to the display of trees, figures and cars in the plan view and view. The symbols can be selected from consise catalogues and placed in the plan via Drag & Drop. You can also easily create your own catalogue using the catalogue wizzard. In the blocks you can define additional inserting points, which aliviate the exact inserting.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 87 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Built-In Catalogues Built-in(s) such as walls, windows and doors can also be selected via catalogue and inserted into the drawing using Drag & Drop. Walls with several formworks can be defined with or without hatching. For walls with the same properties, an intersection will automatically be generated. Windows with any dimension and rebates can be stored in catalogues. SOFiCAD Construction is delivered with many standard pre-defined built-in components. Additionally Built-ins (components) can be defined at any time using the catalogue wizzard. Block-Outs and breakthroughs are created including their labeling. Subsequently walls can be intersected, block outs can be deleted or moved with the corresponding commands.
Drawing Commands Rectangle With the SOFiCAD Rectangle the user has an object at his hands, which keeps the form of a rectangle when stretching or editing it with the grips. Additionally to the usual object grips such as endpoint or middle point, the object snap can be used for the center. Hatching We also have a catalogue with the usual (normal) hatchings. The hatching is associative and can easily be changed subsequently. The adaption of the scaling factors to the scale is done automatically. Islands can be inserted in the hatchings subsequently. Traffic Lane For planning of driveways and paking spaces / sites there is a command to generate the traffic curves. The desired course will be marked through a polylines. The program analyzes the traffic curve based on this polylines and a chosen vehicle and displays it as a closed polylines. A wide variety of vehicles is available, starting with a simple car, to a long bus with a joint up to a truck tractor train. Others We have the corresponding commands to create axial grids / section lines, elongation and construction joints. Further more, insulations or embankments can be drawn along existing geometries.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 88 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Pens The toolbox SOFiCAD Pens" serves for easily selecting the text size, the corresponding dimensionstyle and color. This corresponds to the choice of ink pen and the corresponding font stencil at the drawing board. The currently configured text height is shown in the mm in the status line. Should a dimensionnstyle not exist, it will automatically be created.
Working Method Setup in the Layout Tab With the Plan Setup in the layout tab, you can administer several drawings within one .DWG. Detail scales will be generated via the view windows.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 89 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Page Setup The drawings in the layout tab can be configured with the AutoCAD command “Page Setup”.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 90 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Create page margin with inner border Page (sheet) margins can also be created in the Layout tab very easily. This is also done using the SOFiCAD command SETUP.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 91 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Configuring the inner border You can define the inner border of the page with the value you desire, or you can also suppress it entirely.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 92 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
User defined page (sheet) formates The size of the border (margin) depends on the paper formate selected in the layout properties. Using user defined page formats, you can define any page formate that is not in the pull down menu.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 93 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Setup in the Model Tab You can setup a plan in the model tab. However, then you can only administer one drawing per .DWG. In order to create detail scales you have to work with the SOFiCAD secondary scales.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 94 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
User defined page formats are also possible.
Here you can configure the color and width of the inner border as well as the origin and the dimension of the outer border. If you click on the button Show< you can determine the pafe size by clicking two diagonal points.
Command Reference
Dimension Icon
Menu
Brief Description
Dimension -> Chain Dimension -> Chain Dimen- Creates a dimension chain through the ojects to be dimensioned after sion of of intersections entering a line Arc Dimension
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Creates a dimension chain at an arc, a circle, a ployline or a line
Page 95 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Diameter Dimension or Radius Dimension
Creates a diametr- or radius dimenion at a cirle or circle arc.
Level Mark
Creates a dimension at a level mark
Area, Volumes, Center Mark
Determines diameter, area, volume, weight and center mark of objects
Angular Dimension or Inclination Dimenion
Creates a angular dimension between two lines, at an arc or at three points or an inclination dimension at a line
Information Icon
Menu
Brief Description
SOFiCAD -> Info -> Distance between 2 points
Shows the distance between 2 points
Distance/Angle
Shows the distance between 2 parallel lines or the angle between 2 nonparallel lines
Element
Shows the type of object
List
Shows data base information for selected objects
Menu
Brief Description
Build
Plan Icon
SOFiCAD -> Build Walls -> Catalogue Walls 2D
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Opens wall catalogues with the DesignCenter
Page 96 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Walls -> Intersect Walls
Intersects lines to wall corners
Blockouts -> Catalogue Windows or Catalogue Doors
Opens the Window or Door Catalogue with DesignCenter
Blockouts -> Blockout Catalogue
Opens the Blockout Catalogue with the DesignCenter
Stairs Icon
Menu
Brief Description
SOFiCAD -> Build -> Stairs -> Standard stairs
Opens the stair catalogue for standard stairs with the DesignCenter
Stair Development
Creates the development of the stair stringers of a previously generated stair
Section
Creates a section of a previously created stair
Change
Allowes to edit the previously created stair , or the material thereof
Other Icon
Menu
Brief Description
SOFiCAD -> Build -> Axis
Creates an axis or an axis grid with labeling
Joint -> Working joint or expansion Draws Working- or expansion joints joint
Embankment
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Draws embankmens
Page 97 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Insulation
Draws insulations
Ground
Draws ground/soil
Menu
Brief Description
Draw
Icon
SOFiCAD -> Draw -> Construction Line
Creates construction lines at the section points of a line to be entered with other objects.
Tools -> create Traffic Lane
Creates a traffic lane along any poly line.
Tools -> 3D->2D
Sets any Z-heights within one file to 0.
Draw -> Center Line
Creates a center line between 2 parallel lines or an angle dividing line between non-parallel lines
Menu
Brief Description
Drawing
Icon
SOFiCAD -> Drawing -> Setup
Creates a drawing sheet and changes the page (sheet) size, scale, sheet margin / border etc.
Title Block -> Increase Index
Increases the drawing index
Secondary Scale Area -> define Rectangular secondary scale area or object
For a rectangular are i.e. from polylines, it defines a secondary scale area
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 98 of 157
Construction / Design
SOFiCAD
Other Icon
Menu
Brief Description
SOFiCAD -> Drawing Aids -> Snap parallel
Orientates the snap paralelly to an objects
Layer -> Delete
Deletes any objects on a layer
Layer -> Leaf (Browse)
Browses the layers one by one
Layer -> Multiple Off or One Off or On
Turn multiple layers off, or turn one layer off, where the layer is selected by pointing on an object, or turns any non-frozen layer on.
Pens
Serves to easly sect an analogue text height, the corresponding dimensionstyle and color.
Regenerate View
Regenerates the drawing and draws new the current view window.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 99 of 157
Plan Management
SOFiCAD
Plan Management The Plan Management is a program to manage plans in a project data base (MDB). The plan attributes are read in the plan management from the Title Block and they are updated. The program is a product for any user who manages plans and has to print out plan lists.
Functionality Plan stocks are listed fast and concise with the project explorer. The title block data of the single plans are displayed. You can determine the order of appearance and the headline names by yourself. You can easily change directories and it’s fast. Via the plan management the plans can directly be opened, re-named, copied, or even deleted. Due to many different filter functions you can print every plan or only marked plans with different templates in a plan list. The project data base (*.MDB) can be edited with MS Access.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 100 of 157
Plan Management
SOFiCAD
Work Method The Plan Management can be started in the AutoCAD menu ->File -> SOFiCAD Plan management or externally via START -> Programs -> SOFiCAD -> Plan Management. When saving plan with an inserted Title Block, in the project directory a project database (*.MDB) will automatically be generated. Any plans with the same number in their Title Block data will be written into the MDB. The tracing / changing of the title blocks can be done via SOFiCAD -> Drawing -> Title Block -> Planstempel .
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 101 of 157
Plan Management
SOFiCAD
Comand reference Menu
Brief Description
Datei (File) -> Drucke Journal (Print Journal)
Prints the plan list
-
Datei (File) -> Projekt Explorer
Lists any plan and plan data of a project
-
Datei (File)-> Neue Datenbank erstellen..(Generate New Database).
Generates a new project database
Datei (File)-> Beenden (Exit)
Exit SOFiCAD Plan Management
-
Changes to the next higher directory
-
Generates a new directory
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Neu (New)...
Creates a new .dwg
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Öffnen.(Open)..
Opens the selected .dwg
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> als Block einfügen.(insert as block)..
Inserts selected .dwg as block
Icon
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> als *Block Inserts selected .dwg as dissolved block einfügen.(inster as block).. Zeichnung (Drawing)-> als Xref einfügen.(insert as Xref)..
Inserts selected .dwg as external reference
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Umbenen- Renames the selected .dwg nen (Rename) Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Löschen (Delete)
Deletes the selected .dwg
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Kopieren (Copy)
Copies the selected .dwg
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Kommentar Editieren (Edit comment)
Allowes editing the comments for the selected .dwg
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 102 of 157
Plan Management
Bearbeiten (Edit)-> Suchen (Search)
SOFiCAD
Searches the journal for a term
Bearbeiten (Edit)-> sichtbare dwg`s Highlights any visile .dwg Markieren (Highlight visible .dwg’s) Bearbeiten (Edit)-> sichtbare dwg`s Removes the highlighting for any Demarkieren (Un-Highlight visible visible .dwg .wg’s) -
Ansicht (View) -> Symbolleiste (Tool Bar)
Control to show the icons
-
Ansicht (View)-> Statusleiste (Status Line)
Controls the visibility of the status line, such as time or directory of the MDB
Ansicht (View) -> Filter Bearbeiten Configures the filter properties (Edit Filter) Ansicht (View)-> Filter Anwenden Applies the filter (Apply Filter) -
Highlights any plan in the project
--
Romoves the ighlighting of the plans
-
Ansicht (View)-> Aktualisieren (Update)
Updates the view of the plan data
-
Ansicht (View)-> Optionen (Options)
Comment determines the names and the order of the comment names Installs in: directory of the Soficadp.exe Preview: determines the plan size and the background color Connection to: determines the AutoCAD-Release and the data update
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 103 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Reinforcement SOFiCAD Reinforcement allowes to draw any round steel and mesh reinforcement comfortably. The reinforcement created with SOFiCAD Reinforcement can be modifies at any time (associative reinforcement). Partial- and whole lenghts as well as numbers are determined automatically. Steel- und Bending lists as well as cutting sletches are automatically generated and can either be printed / given out or inserted into the plan. The program SOFiCAD Reinforcement is thought for any user who works in constructive or civil engineering. It’s possible to reinforce different components starting from plane slabs up to walls, supports, fundaments or even bridge abutments, tunnel slabs or other complex components.
Functionalities (Features) Any command can be reached using tool boxes, menus or the command line. An existing AutoCAD drawing or a DXF-File can serve as formwork for the construction / design. Any line can be used as formwork (edge): there are no limits regarding layer, color or line style. Walls from the Architectural Desktop can also serve as formwork edge.
Intelligent Cursor When selecting formworks, a so called intelligent cursor is available for easing the entry. The intelligent cursor serves to automatically consider a concrete cover in the correct direction, when working with fomworks. When the clicked on formwork edge lays beneath the pickbock within the border, a concrete cover will be considered for the edge – on the side of the reticle. The information, which concrete cover will be used, appears at the cursor, when briefly stopping over the line.
Editing Commands Editing Commands can be found, just like in Windows, in an object related rightclick menu. Therefore it is guaranteed, that any editing options can directly be started from the object. Several objects can be changed at once, with the AutoCAD Property Dialogue. A brief description concerning this matter can be found in the chapter Property Dialogue (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) on Page 54.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 104 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Construction Stages By entering a name for a construction stage in the parameters, a new one will automatically be generated and currently set. Should up to now, construction stages not have been entered, the current one will be assigned to the existing reinforcement objects. New objects are generally assigned with the currently set construction stage. Only distributions, VE-Irons, and meshes get a construction stage assigned. Steel bar extracts are not considered in this case. Therefore it’s possible to lay one position in several construction stages. The construction stage can be changed subsequently using either InfoEdit or the properties dialogue.
Possibilities / Options SOFiCAD-Reinforcement offers any possibility to create arbitrary reinforcement plans / designs.
General Position Numbers Position Numbers are automatically assigned by the program. Only when using the option “Position Numbers,” a position number can explicitely be entered. By default the next free position will be offered. Deleted positions will be reassigned by the program when needed. With the command “Modify Steelbar” steelbars can be repositioned and modified; single steelbars can also be repositioned subsequently. Generally it’s possible to assign any position, even alphanumerical positions.
Parameters In the parameters, general properties can be entered. They will be saved in the plan and can also be stored as template. In the parameters we define for steelbar and meshes i.e. the running variable and also the prefix or suffix for the positions. Furthermore you define the similarity border and the rounding masses. In the tab for general settings you define the properties for materials, concrete covers and the extraxt raster. Furthermore the construction stages are created and generated here as well.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 105 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Styles In order to set the display of the reinforcement, there are different styles availabel. Via the styles colors, text styles and line types can be configured and texts can be defined. Styles are stores in the corresponding drawing and can be changed at any time – the drawing will then be updated automatically. It’s also possible to store as many styles as required in every drawing – and the styles can be imported or exported as you like. If you would like to use an office standard we recommend creating an office template with the corresponding properties. However, project related templates can also be used. Multiplier With the Multiplier you can determine how often a displayed reinforcement should be counted. Therefore you can control which laying (distribution) should be counted for the steel list, if a position is displayed in the section (view) and as (top) view. In order to guarantee the correct amounts, one of these layings must have the multiplier 0. In the case that a laying (distribution) should be counted several times i.e. upper and lower laying, the multiplier can also be more than 1.
Steel bars Mandrels Basically any mandrel is available. SOFiCAD-Reinforcement offers helps to enter the standard mandrels, any further forms are available by using so called X-Irons (X-Bars). They can be created with any polyline or also dawn comfortable alongside of existing formwork borders (edges).
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 106 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
The selection of the mandrels is carried out via the following dialogue box:
Types of Laying (Distribution) Several methods are available to determine the amounts of layed irons. Irons or stirrups can be distributed linearly or in the section even according to amounts.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 107 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
The selection of the distribution type is also done via a dialogue box:
Amounts / Pieces Extracts generally have the amounts of 0 as default when creating them. Only after the distribution the amounts automatically are entered into the corresponding position. To determine the amounts, any reinforcement distribution in one position will be summed up. This is also done automatically – tracing the data list is therefore not necessary. Steel Bar Dimensioning Any partial dimensions determined by the program are outer dimensions. Therefore there are apparent differences depending on the kind of construction, when dealing with bended bars: If the reinforcement is created with an angle corresponding to the formwork (entering an alphanumerical value), the dimension X seams to be incorrect. If the reinforcement is created with “Show the Formwork Edge”, the angle of the bend is not coherent with the angle of the formwork. The reason being, the bar is drawn as line with the thikness 0 in the simple display; however in nature the diameter is not equal to 0. Depending on which scale the bars are displayed in their correct thickness, can be configured the the steel bar style. The following drawing clarifies the matter.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 108 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Meshes Mesh Fields With just a few commands, it’s possible to draw any mesh files (rectangular or polygonal). Any required specification necessary for mesh distribution are determined in one single dialogue window. The type of distribution (single mesh, mesh row or Mesh Filed) depends on the size of the area to be covered. Fitted meshes- or rest meshes are automatically generated and positioned correspondingly. The commands „Single Mesh“ and „Mesh Row“ are only required if meshes of a certain size should be distributed or if mesh positionings shoud be generated. Any current meshes are available by default, however any other mesh type can also be defined. Once defined, list meshes can also be used without problems. Meshes can be distributed in the main view, secondary view, in the 2nd Layer and as positioning. When displaying the mesh view, the user can choose between single meshes and mesh field display. Changing the dimensions of the meshes already distributed is possible without incurring troubles. Besides the usual editing commands (such as Strech, Move, Scale), the distribution on a modified plan view can easily be adapted by using so called grips. When meshes are created new, the program always checks whether a similar or equal mesh does exist already. The rounding- or similarity values can be chosen arbitrarily via parameters. Changes at already distributed mesh reinforcement (mesh type, lapping reinforcement lengths etc) are made with the command “InfoEdit”. Any changes can be made very comfortably in a dialogue window.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 109 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Stirrup Meshes The mandrel of stirrup meshes is done with the steel bar commands. To distribute them, the mesh distribution commands are used. Fitted Meshes are thereby automatically generated. Just like any reinforcement as well, the stirrup meshes are also updated when changing components.
List Meshes With SOFiCAD Reinforcement, you have the possibility to create and to distribute List Meshes. The SOFiCAD Reinforcement needs a plan database for this task. The database can be generated with the command “Generate Plan Definition” or “Include Plan Head”. The Plan Database stores therefore any plan containing the same project number. For further information regarding the Plan Database, please consult the chapter Plan Management on page 101 In order to distribute list meshes, please go ahead and use the already mentioned mesh distribution methods. SOFiCAD Reinforcement does not differenttiate in the further course between List Meshes and Standard Meshes. Once List Meshes have been distributed, they cannot be changed.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 110 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Working Method To generate reinforcement plans using SOFiCAD Reinforcement, we recommend the following method: In the Layout tab create the desired view window for your plan. There you should also determine the desired scales for the plan to be plotted. Now you can add the reinforcement within the window according to the following description. To display the reinforcement the determined scale will be taken over for the corresponding windows. This way, you can see the identical plan detail in different scaling i.e. in the top view or in detail. Furthermore in the layout tab you can correct any settings for your stiles and adapt the plan to it. The entered text heights are always referring to the plotted scale. With SOFiCAD Reinforcement you can also work with building the plan up in the model tab and with secondary scales as well of course. However this option is only available in connection with a Design module. A brief description concerning this matter can be found in the chapter Setup in the Model Tab on page 95. In order to work seamless with steel lists and list meshes, SOFiCAD Reinforcement requires a plan database. You can generate it with the command “Generate Plan Definition” when working without the Design Module. In the plan database any plan located in the same directory and containing the same project number will be stored. Should you work with the Design module, please add a plan head into your drawing. Please check the Design Module manual for further information.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 111 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Command Reference Icon
Menu
Brief Description
Reingorcement -> BFE-Show
Inserts FE-analysis of the slab/wall in the drawing
Steel List
Generates a steel list from the reinforcement elements of the drawing (external program)
Insert Bending List
Insterts the bendin list generated with the steel list into the plan or updates the already existing list after changes
Bar Spacer
Insterts Bar Spacer into the drawing They will also be taken over into the steel list.
Browse Steel Bars or Browse Meshes
With this command you can browse through the single positions
Mesh Style or Steel Bar Style
You can set how the steel bars or the meshes should be displayed.
Position
With this command the positioning can distributed again
Hide Position
Serves to hide certain positions
Info
Synopsis of the existing positions: which are already assigned for steel bars or
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 112 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
meshes, describes each position and gives out the present amounts. Parameter
Plan related settings can be made here. They can also be stored in a template file.
Automatical Steel Bar Distribution from FEA
Based on a present FEAanalysis, a steel bar reinforcement can automatically be generated.
Automatical Steel Bar Distribution
A slab can automatically be reinforced based on any FEA-values
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 113 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Steel Bars Icon
Menu
Brief Description
Reinforcement -> Generate Extract
With this command any type of mandrels can be created
Generate Distribution
This command allowes to generate any type of distribution / Laying
Connecting Elements
Connecting Elements can be amplified with connecting elements. Posisitons with connecting elements are listed separately in the steel list
Change Diameter of Mandrel
Special diameters of mandrel can be defined for single posisitons. Per mandrel only one diameter of mandrel is allowed.
Bar Bundle
Bars in section can be converted to bar bundles
Bent-ups
This symbol serves to determine whether a bar bents out of or into the drawing level.
End Marker
Endmarker to clarify the bars in the view.
Estract Grid
Any extract can be arranged in an extract grid (raster). New positions will automatical added.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 114 of 157
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD
Meshes Icon
Menu
Brief Description
Reinforcement -> Meshes general
With this command, any rectangular space can be filled with meshes. Overlapings will automatically be created.
Single Mesh
Serves to create single meshes or positions.
Polygonal Mesh Distribution/Laying
With this command, any space can be distributed / layed with meshes.
Stirrup mesh
Serves to generate stirrup meshes.
List Mesh
Serves to generate list meshes – they are administered / managed project depending.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 115 of 157
Steel List
SOFiCAD
Steel List The program WINSTLI allows creating steel lists for round steel and Meshes with bar spaces and build-in components. The amout of steel and built-in components are stored in the SOFiCAD-Project file. The program WINSTLI allowes a compilation of these amounts.
Functionality In a steel list different types of steel and meshes can be used. Separate steel lists are created for this. The material types can be assigned globally or for every position. For the output of the lists we can have three options:
•
The single positions will be listes successively. A column will be created for each diameter. The amounts of the pintable columns depends on the chosen paper / page formate. Should the page be too small, the type 3 will be chosen for the output.
•
Any position of a diameter or mesh type will be compiled in one table.
•
Any position will be ordered according to their number successively. Subsequently a table will be created for the sum of the single diameters or meshes.
Mandrel lists can be generated for the steel positions and for the bent meshes. Cutting sketches can be created for the meshes. The bar diameters with the weights per running meter, the mesh types with the weight per m2 and the bar spaces with their weights are stored by the user in the editable file SOFSTLI.TAB.
Working Method The steel list WINSTLI can directly be opend from the module SOFiCAD Reinforcement. It’s also possible to create steel lists for reinforcement plans, which were not drawn with SOFiCAD. In this case, WINSTLI can be opened as an independent program.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 116 of 157
Foundations
SOFiCAD
Foundations SOFiCAD Foundations is an additional module to SOFiCAD Reinforcement and allowes drawing and reinforcing single and sleve foundations. The results of dimensioning and rating can directly be taken over from the SOFiSTiK analysis program FUND. The created reinforecement can undergo further editing using the editing commands of SOFiCAD Reinforcement
Functionality •
Drawing and reinforcing any type of single foundations with or without sleve
•
Sleve or support connections can be assymetrically
•
Fully automatical generation of the concrete cover
•
Fully automatical reinforcement
•
Automatical taking over the data from the SOFiSTiK program FUND
•
File for handing over can be created with any text editor
All of this combined results in an entire drawing in just a few minutes, if a handing over file does exist.
Working Method Any information concerning diemsion and reinforcement of the foundation are taken from a handing over file which can be created with the SOFiSTiK analysis program FUND or manually. Without this handling over file, the program will ask for the required values in a dialogue. The reinforcement is done according to „Leonhardt, Lecture about reinforced concrete construction, third part: Basics about reinforced concret construction (Single Foundations for Supports) 3.Edition 1977” – [“Leonhardt, Vorlesung über Massivbau, dritter Teil: Grundlagen zum Bewehren im Stahlbetonbau (Einzelfundamente für Stützen)] Should punching reinforcement be required, the program will make a reinforcement proposal and alternatively offers and increase of the flexural reinforcement. For the constructive reinforcement alternatives are offered as well. Any reinforcement proposals can be replaced by own statements.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 117 of 157
Foundations
SOFiCAD
Single foundations that were created in this way can be edited and changed according to your demands at any time.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 118 of 157
RoSy
SOFiCAD
RoSy For planar slab disks, i.e. floor slabs or ceiling slabs time and again one has to decide: should I choose a reinforcement, that adapts direction true to the course of the principal moment – this is statically desireable, but it requires a lot of effort; or should I choose a statical infavourable orthogonal reinforcement mesh, which again is very easy to design.
Differnt types of circular reinforcements Central Reinforcement: widely orthogonale arrangement of the reinforcement for the middle area of the circular slab. Radial Reinforcement: Radial Reinforcement is fan formed arranged around the center of the slab. Minimal and maximum distances of the single bars are considered of course and the bars will automatically be staggered. Ring Reinforcement: The Ring Reinforcement is the circular formation of reinforcement arranged around the slabs center. The methods can also be combined. The created reinfocement is now ready for further processing with the SOFiCAD editing commands.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 119 of 157
RoSy
SOFiCAD
Functionality RoSy is a module developed out of the practise for the practise. It offers any possibility to create the optimum reinforcement for circular- and circular ring slabs, cones, funnels etc. Diverse editing options allow for a fast adaptation of the reinforcement to the statical, constructive and economical demands.
Projects worked on so far: Prestressed concrete digester con- Purification plant Eisenhüttenstadt (DE) tainer Prestressed concrete Biogas reactors
MAV Gent, Belgium
Whole grain silo
Agricultural company in Neustadt a.d. Donau (DE)
Post purification basin
Purification plant Kückhoven (DE)
...
...
Options Those who have already dealt with direction true rotation-symmetrical reinforcement constructions of circular slabs and also in this context with circular ring slabs, cones and funnels etc, know the probelems encountered with this type of reinforcement. Without RoSy, the constructor does not have an other option than aiming at an approximation, which is very time intensive until reaching a satisfactory solution.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 120 of 157
RoSy
SOFiCAD
Working Method After pears:
starting
RoSy,
the
following
dialogue
box
ap-
Here you can configure the settings. Afterwards the reinforcement distribution has to be analyzed.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 121 of 157
RoSy
SOFiCAD
Now the reinforcement only has to be finished.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 122 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
BAMTEC BAMTEC is a trademark and stands for reinforcement trimming machine technology (Bewehrungs-Abbund-Maschinen-Technologie). BAMTEC-Elements are used to reinforce steel concrete slabs or floor slabs, rather than using conventional steel meshes. They exclusively contain uniaxial distributed round steels, which are connected with transversal straps to one assembly unit. BAMTEC builds up on the area round steel reinforcement, very often applied in the steel concrete design. However it uses any possibility of data processing technology in the engineering offices as well as technologies applied for assembly mashines in the reinforcemnt producing companies. The Finite Elemente Analysis FEA and desiging with CAD are symbiotically combined in BAMTEC. When using BAMTEC the the structural engineer is also the work preperator for the executing companies.
How does BAMTEC work? During the conventional procedure of reinforcing steel concrete slabs, simple reinforcement elements such as round steels or construction steel meshes are determined one by one in the plan, they will be prepared in the bending company, positioned, delivered and built in at the construction site by a construction unit. The BAMTEC element system dramatically changes this procedure. The positiond single bars or single meshes are no longer delivered to the construction site. BAMTEC uses entire reinforcement layers (carpets) which have been “taylor made” for the customer. A seperate BAMTEC element will be designed, produced, delivered and built in for every reinforcement direction. These BAMTEC elements are usually roled out in a right angle to each other. The rolls contain parallel round steels which are connected to each other with a tranversal strap. This means in the lower and upper reinforcement two rolls each are required – resulting in a total of 4 rols. The reinforcement layers do not consist of standard elements, but they are individually produced for the floor plan and the corresponding use. The upper irons for beam reinforcement, the lower reinforcement layers of slab disks as well as framing irons for block outs can be integrated into the BAMTEC elements.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 123 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
BAMTEC can also be applied for semi finished parts (i.e. filigree floors) or holorip slabs – however in this case only for the top layers. By now, the laying of the reinforcement takes up about 20% of the time of conventional reinforcement layings.
Full mashine A file containing the data of the finished are reinforcement has to be handed over to the BAMTEC producer as file. The BAMTEC machine will be controlled with these data. The BAMTEC elements are produced fully automatically. Bars up to a diameter of 14 (16) mm of the coil can be processed.
What has to be taken into account when using BAMTEC? When designing with BAMTEC, one has to take into account that the BAMTEC elements need to be roled out without obstacles in their way. Support connections can be built up including the sleeve joints. However the elements can often be rolled out inbetween the supports. Hanger-reinforcements are built in subsequently with the angle form. Beam links have to be open and complemented with U-bars subsequently etc.
Functionality The reinforcement plan can optionally be created in accordance with the existing FE-analysis or fuly automatically with the indicated reinforcement values. In the upper and lower reinforcement layer, one BAMTEC element will be dimensioned for each laying / distribution direction, which exactly corresponds to the required reinforcement. The position of the single bars will be determined seperately. Any lap joint within one BAMTEC element is obsolete. The bars are welded together with a transversal strap made of flat steel in BAMTEC elements and they will be transported in rolls to the construction site. The reinforcement can exactly be staggered according to the FE analysis considering DIN 1045. Every bar can have a different length. SOFiCAD-BAMTEC automatically creates any required plan data within a drawing file and thereby uses any AutoCAD functionality of the layout.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 124 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
Rollout plan On the Rollout-Plan the single BAMTEC elements are displayed in the floor plan, with a scale of 1:50 in the way they should be rolled out. Additionally the on top required reinforcement are indicated (roundsteel or meshes) in the scale of 1:50. This plan is designated for the construction site.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 125 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
Check Plan Any area reinforcement of one layer is compiled in the checking plan. This is done on a seperate plan for each reinforcement direction. Therefore 4 checking plans are required for one slab. Those plans are neither required for the construction site nor for the iron bending manufacturor. They serve as a control for the engineering office, for the checking engineer and for the reinforcement inspection at the construction site.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 126 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
Production Plan The production plan contains the display of an area reinforcement element. It contains any details to produce a BAMTEC element such as the posistion and the bars diameters. This plan only serves to produce the BAMTEC elements in the iron bending factory. It is not necessary at the construction site. In the fully automatically production the production plan serves as a control.
The mashine that bends the irons receives the information from the reinforcement file.
WorkingMethod At first the carpets for the slabs to be reinforeced are created - then they are subdivided into reasonable partial geometries (single areas). When creating the geometry, one has to take into account, that they need to be designed in a way that they can be rolled out without any problems at the construction site. Therefore one has to pay attention that the reinforcement elements are not getting wider in the roll out direction – they should rather have the same size (if possibel) or get smaller. In order to guarantee a clean and even rolling out of the BAMTEC elements at the construction site (i.e. a re-entrant corner at rising cover), it’s appropriate to
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 127 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
sensibly define the BAMTECT elements geometry during the design process. Elements that stand out should be avoided.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 128 of 157
BAMTEC
SOFiCAD
Command Reference Icon
Menu
Brief Description
BAMTEC -> BFE-Show
Adds the FE analysis if the slab into the drawing
Create Carpet
Creates a carpet without FE analysis
Create Carpet from FE analysis
Creates a carpet according to the FE analysis
Divide Carpet
Serves to divide the carpet to enable a rooling out
Change rolling directionRollrichtung ändern
Turns the rolling direction of the carpet around
Change Diameter
Changes the diameter of single bars
New analysis of the carpet
Re-analysis the carpet
Sort carpets
Re-sorts the carpets
Update production plans
Updates the layouts of the production plans
Disolve carpet in origin
Dissolves the carpet in steel bars (only available if SOFiCAD Reinforcement is loaded)
Create machine control files
Creates the machin control files for any carpet in one directory
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 129 of 157
Alignment
SOFiCAD
Alignment SOFiCAD-V is the module for alignment in the SOFiCAD product family. With this module you can cover any concern of traffic constructions such as roads or rail. Axis, gradients and cross fall bands can be created very simply by entering parameters in the dialogue or by importing them. Axes are compiled of the elements straight, arc and clothoides. The possibility to define standard cross sections and thereby achieving a deck height (book) as well as the functionality concerning coordinate systems / alignment points round the whole topic off.
Target User Every engineering office that handles projects with regard to axes, be it road, or railway axes. SOFiCAD-V can be the solution, especially in the cases where road construction is not the emphasis and the high costs of complex alignments don’t pay off. However the module is virtually predestinated to bridge design. The planning of alignment is then already present and sections of axis as well as gradient and the cross falling band are simply handed over. The handing over of the data wil is done as a file or a list of parameters. Elements for axes and gradients can directly be imported into SOFiCAD-V with the interfaces to data type DA001 for land points, card type KA021 and gradients and KA040 for axes. Additionally an own variable interface is available – with it it’s possible to import other formats and to generate SOFiCAD-V elements.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 130 of 157
Alignment
SOFiCAD
Bridge cross sections, abutments and clearance diagrams can be defined into a standard cross section from a polyline. Standard cross sevtions only have to be defined once. They can be managed via a catalogue and thereby they can be made available to other users. Defined standard cross sections can seperately be inserted at any station or in an interval at an axis. At the same station an arbitray amount of different standard cross ections can be inserted.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 131 of 157
Alignment
SOFiCAD
When defining a standard cross section, it can receive levels. The absolute heights will imediately be analyzed for the level and they will appear in the system tree. From there they can be exported into an ASCII file (Deck Height Book), which can be inserted into the drawing as text.
Inserted standard cross sections can additionally be displayed in the section view i.e. in the secondary scale together with the SOFiCAD level marks. Any coordinate system can be defined and assigned to these alignment points. As the Coordinate systems can be oriented in any direction and they can have additional constants, it’s possible to design in the country system as well as in the local system. As the alignment points can be analyzed independently of their proper system in the coordinates of any system, a coordinate transformation is conducted by the way. Should the point’s refere to an axis the station of the plumb foot point, the measure and the height are automatically given out. The fixed heights of imported land points (DA001) are marked with an asterix *.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 132 of 157
Alignment
SOFiCAD
Koordinaten im lokalen System Punkte des Systems Nr 1494 1619 1620 1621 1622 1651 1652
Y 42503.831 42502.251 42502.140 42497.307 42493.785 42499.963 42498.305
Nr 1 2 3 4
Z 42499.872 42511.866 42532.997 42546.133
X_Y X
42118.930 42120.085 42119.515 42121.732 42123.040 42120.935 42121.504
Punkte des Systems
X_Y
Station
Abrückmaß
Höhe
1+20.701 1+19.121 1+19.010 1+14.177 1+10.655 1+16.833 1+15.175
7.027 5.872 6.442 4.225 2.917 5.022 4.453
123.179* 123.188* 123.129* 123.126* 123.146* 123.189* 123.202*
Station
Abrückmaß
Höhe
1+16.742 1+28.736 1+49.867 1+63.003
-14.584 -12.301 -0.887 -1.458
100.411 101.041 102.460 103.091
T_Z T
42140.542 42138.259 42126.844 42127.415
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 133 of 157
Alignment
SOFiCAD
Command Reference Icon
Menu
Brief Description
Alignment -> Define Alignment
Generates alignment
Draw Axis
Generates axis via entering the parameters in the dialogue
Axis from Polyline
Generates an axis by showing a polylines
Draw gradient
Generates gradients via entering the parameters in the dialogue
Draw corss-fal band
Generates cross fall band via entering the parameters in dialogue
Insert station(s)
Inserts additional station blocks singles or in interval
Define area
Assigns an area of an axis to an standard cross section
Define standard cross section
Defines a standard cross section from a polylines
Insert standard cross section
Inserts a standard cross section assigned to an axis – either single or interval
Define alignment points
Generates a coordinate system or alignment points assigned to it
Mofify alignment points
Allowes changing and assignment of alignment points to coordinate systems and a re-numbering
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 134 of 157
Alignment
SOFiCAD
Set the local coordinate system
Allowes designing in locals (i.e. country specific) coordinates
Analyze coordinates
Hands out the alignment points coordinates and if applicable distance, station and height in an ASCII file
Point info
Hands out the coordinates and if applicable distance, station and height for the shown point
Import of ASCII files
Inserts files as text into drawing
System tree
Displays the SOFiCAD-V elements of the drawing hyrachical
Update system tree
Traces any SOFiCAD-V element
Update bdd
Takes over the changes made in the SOFICADV.bdd
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 135 of 157
Steel Design
SOFiCAD
Steel Design The SOFiCAD Steel Design module is a compliment for designers and engineers that allowes to quickly create overview and shop drawings with the corresponding piece lists for small and midle sized steel designs.
Functionality Any command can be reached via tool boxes, pull down menus or the command line. Due to similar dialogue boxes the module is very easy to learn and can be handeld in a short contraction time. Usual and current steel design profiles can be drawn as section, in the view (also top view) and they can be handed out in a piece list. Standard connections such as edge joints and angular joints with the corresponding girder notches can easily be generated. In the piece list, generated upon command, the main and secondary positions will be listed.
Possibilities Project Data Base In the drawing directory a project data base will be generated for every new project. When saving the drawing SOFiCAD-S writes the sum of the weights and the area of coating for every steel design position in the data base.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 136 of 157
Steel Design
SOFiCAD
Drawing and Editing Profiles With SOFiCAD-S you can insert into the plan any current steel design profile and therefore position them optimaly via different base points. Furthermore you can choose between the real and the symbolic display. A variety of commands allowes changing the profiles i.e. bevel, more oblique, more rectangular and dull joint, framework and notches.
Steel Sheets and Joints
Steel Sheets: •
Rectangular, round and arbitrary form
Rigidity/Stiffen •
Entering rigidities for I-Profile in section and in view
Joints: •
End plate joints, girder joint with angles
Screws//Bores: •
Screws can be aligned in a rectangular or round form or single screws can be generated. The following screws are available in the program:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 137 of 157
Steel Design
SOFiCAD
•
Raw Screws (DIN 7990), fitted screws (Passschrauben) (DIN 7968), HV-Screws (DIN 6914), HV-fitted screws (DIN 7999), Cylinder head screws (DIN 912), countersank screws (DIN 7991)
•
The screw length will be determined automatically.
Welds •
Welds and weld symbols are available via the SOFiCAD catalogue manager
Labeling and Position Management
Labeling •
The labeling of the single steel objects will be inserted with the profile, the steel sheet or with the joint. During the course of further editing, the labeling will automatically be updated.
Position Management •
The steel design objects are managed maually or automatically upon demand and they are traced in a piece list. The positioning is structures in main and secondary positions with and without numbering.
Working Method In order to create steel design plans with SOFiCAD Steel Design, we recommend using the following method:
•
Create the desired view window for your plan in the Layout Tab. A brief description fort his matter can be found in the chapter Setup in the Layout Tab on page 90 . Of course you can also work in the model tab including the secondary scales. A brief description to this matter can be found in the chapter Setup in the Model Tab on page 95.
• Now you can draw the steel girders with the command Draw Profile and change them with the various options via Change Profile. Profiles can easily be positioned with the
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 138 of 157
Steel Design
SOFiCAD
base points and with the help of the system lines (grid). Subsequently you can enter the steel sheets, rigidities and the joints. In the end you could ask for a piece list and insert it into the drawing.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 139 of 157
Steel Design
SOFiCAD
Command Reference Icon
Menu
Brief description
Steel Design -> Draw Profile
The dialogue box contains different tabs, where settings concerning type, view and labeling can be made.
Edit Profile
Profiles can be edited subsequently and the profile type or length can be changed. The labeling is traced automatically.
Change Profile -> stretch/reduce
With this command you can stretch or reduce a profile in the view. Should the profile not end exactly at the line, you can define a distance.
Change Profile -> Joint -> Dull Joint
With the command „Dull Joit“you can connect the end of two profiles, if their ends are straight or in a flat angle to each other.
Change Profile -> Joint -> Bevel
With the command „Bevel“ two profiles can be joint on bevel in the view.
Change Profile -> Framework -> With this command a profile can be connected with two existing ones, Framework 1 in 2 where the two remain unchanged. Change Profile -> Type and radius of notch
With the command „Type and Radius of Notch“ you can create the notch with a rounded coving or bored notch at the end of the profile.
Change Profile -> Automatical notch
The command “Automatical Notch” automatically creates notches at the end of O-Profiles
Rigidity/Stiffen
In order to stiffen I-Profiles, rigidities are drawn in the section and in the view with this command. The rigidities cannot be aligned nor can the be aligned at a connected profile.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 140 of 157
Steel Design
Draw connection -> I-girder connection with angles or Draw connection -> end plate connection
SOFiCAD
This command allowes to create Igrider connections with angles in different views. In the dialogue window the settins for arrangement, profile type, screw types and views are made.
Draw Screws/Bores -> Rectangu- An arrangement of bores and screw fittings in rectangular arrangement will lar arrangement be created. Optionally also a steel sheet will be inserted. Draw Scres/Bores -> Circular arrangement
A circular arrangement of Screw fiitings/Bores will be created. Optionaly also a steel sheet will be inserted.
Draw Screws/Bores ->Single Screw
A single screw will be inserted.
Catalogue ManagerWeldings
With the catalogue manager weldings, you can insert weldings with the corresponding welding symbol.
Catalogue Manager Welding Symbols
Via the catalogue manager welding symbols you can apply the corresponding labellings and welding strength to the welding.
Positioning -> Trace
With this con, the internal data list will always be kept up-to-date. In the list information such as position number, multiplier, type, dimension etc. are stored.
Piece list
The command piece list calculates the piece list out of the internal data list. Any position of the current plan is considered. Optionally you can give out a compilation of the positions where the total weight and the sum of the coated areas are listed.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 141 of 157
Mass Determination
SOFiCAD
Mass Determination SOFiCAD Mass Determination is very easy to handle yet it’s extremely flexible in its use. Complex areas and curvature analyses are precisely carried out by the program. The program allowes a fast and comprehensive determination of masses from any AutoCAD drawing. AutoCAD basic objects such as lines, archs and polylines can be connected with attributes and their value will automatically be adapted to the dimensions of these objects. Basic forms such as rectangle, circle details and trapezoids are recognized and listed comprehensible. The output is done via tables or directly into different office applications. The program is suited for cost calculations, curvature analyses, room labeling and area usage proofs.
Functionality It enables the comprehensible mass determination from any AutoCAD drawing with individual adaptabilities for the most different tasks. Automaticaly contour recognition to analyze areas. Output in tables via free configurable templates or directly to MS Access or MS Excel. Due to the clipboard support the data sets can be exported into any Windows program. The program contains an example catalogue with room stamps and position blocks. Commands are available that link the stamp with drawing objects. Special commands are available which allow determining wall curvatures.
Working Method The AutoCAD objects are linked through commands with stamps containing the corresponding attributes. Objects can be added subsequently using the mass dialogue. Any set of data can be applied with a factor. Furthermore a variety of analysis methods are available. For the mass export, the current geometry data in the drawing will be determined and the analysis will then be carried out. The results can be filtered and formated using templates.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 142 of 157
Mass Determination
SOFiCAD
Command Reference Icon
Menu
Brief Description
Mass Determination -> Room stamp new
The command automatically assignes room areas and circumferences to a room stamp. First the desired room stamp will be selected and placed. Then the room dividing polyline can be created by simply showing the polyline or by clicking in the room. If the circumstances call for it, the line will automatically be divided into comprehensive parts.
Exchange stamps
This command allowes to exchange stamps (blocks with attributes) without loss of data i.e. after changing the scale.
Assign Edit Masses
With this command you can reassign positions and stamps with new mass objects and thereby changing or deleting existing links.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 143 of 157
Mass Determination
SOFiCAD
After entering the command, show a block with attributes (stamp) or an object with mass assignment. Assign Mass Positions
This command allowes to assign any drawing object to posiions. Position numbers, -labeling and units can be read out from tables.
Create Wall Masses
This command allowes to create mass information from existing wall lines.
Substract openings
WIth this command it’s possible to determine the openings for walls for mass determination.
Change single mass
After calling the command, select an object in the drawing which is already linked to an attribute or that should be linked to an attribute.
Delete single mass
The command deletes single mass assignment of a drawing object.
Trace Masses
With this command you can update the masses of selected stamps or optionally any linked attribute in the drawing.
Export commands Table Output
The output into tables requires a so called SOFiCAD template (file ending: .SOS). It describes the arrangement of attributes and analysis approaches in the output list. The generated data sets are written into the clipboard and can be copied with “Edit -> Insert” into any application.
Export to Excel
Besides the table export which is also suited for Excel, data sets can also be exproted to Excel with additional formating comands. The used workbook will be registered in AutoCAD; therefore a subsequen-
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 144 of 157
Mass Determination
SOFiCAD
tial data synchonisation is always possible. Export to Access
Here, a data export to an Access data base (MDB) is carried out. The file uses the same file name as the drawing, however with the ending .mdb.
Update Masses in or from Excel
Data can be synchonized from SOFiCAD to Excel or vice versa.
Update Masses from Access
This command allowes updating data sets from Access to SOFiCAD.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 145 of 157
VBA
SOFiCAD
VBA Functionality VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) is a programmming language developed by Microsoft, in order to extend applications such as AutoCAD or MSWord. The base for this language is a BASIC-Dialect, which is complemented with application specific elements. Every software vendor can license VBA from Microsoft and use it with his applications. Contrary to AutoLISP, which has already been integrted into AutoCAD for very long, VBA only came with R14.01 to AutoCAD. However it can only realy be used since the release AutoCAD 2000. There are two substantial differences to AutoLISP: First - interface elements such as dialogue boxes that follow the Window Style Guide are easily created and they integrate seamless into the system. Second: it’s much easier to combine several applications to one function. An example for it is an Excel-table that specifies which layer in a drawing should how be changed, in order to change the drawing from the engineering office standard to the clients CAD standard. A VBA application can easily change different drawings, wereas only a new table is required to support an additional standard. The editor of the table only has to know how to use Excel effectively – he does not need to understand the VBA-application. Use with AutoCAD New VBA-applications, often called Macros, are created in the VBA-DIE (Integrated Developer Environment). To call it up, simply follow the menu Extras – Macros – Visual Basic or use the command _vbaide. A new window will open in the VBA environment. It is possible, that a VBA-project has already been loaded, for example, SOFiCAD.B uses some VB-functions, should this bet he case a new projects should be created using the VBA-Manager (can also be found under Macros). In order to load an existing project, use load Project in Macros–Menu or use the command _vbaload. In the following dialogue box, that queries whether macros contained in the file should be activated, the hook should not be turned off. Unfortunately it’s very easy to embed VBA-macros directly into a drawing and thereby programming a virus. Therefore one should carefully think over, if the risk is justified. In order to run a macro, use the menu Macro or the command _vbarun. In the then appearing list the macro to be run can be chosen. As any existing macro is listed there, strong names are recommended for projects and macros.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 146 of 157
VBA
SOFiCAD
Example for VBA in AutoCAD: Layer To stick to the example from above, the first VBA example shows, how to create anew layer with the color „RED“. For it, generate as already described a new project and call it LayerRot. To name a project, in the project explorer (the window with the headline Project – ACADProject) select the project and enter the name in the properties window as property value (Name).
Before a new macro is created one should activate the variable declaration required which can be found at Extras – Options. Then use the menu Macros in Extras to create a new Macro and call it Create. A new text window will open with a few lines, the actual macro can be found beween Sub Create() and End Sub.
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 147 of 157
VBA
SOFiCAD
An example program to create a new layer LayerRot and to set to color Red looks like this:
Sub Create() Dim Layer As AcadLayer Set Layer = ThisDrawing.Layers.Add("LayerRot") Layer.Color = acRed End Sub
The line with Dim defines a new variable Layer, which should take up a reference to the layer. Subsequently the layer will be generated. Should the layer already exist, the variable will be assigned to the existing layer. Subsequently the Property Color of Layer will be set to acRed. acRed is a pre-defined variable, which corresponds to the AutoCAD color red. Example fro VBA in AutoCAD: Line Of course, VBA cannot only modify the layer table, one can alo create new objects or query entries from the users. For this case a Macro that creates a line and queries from the user a point to create a second line, which connects the first with the shown point. Even if the macro could easily be inserted into the project LayerRot, it’s better to define a new project, with the name ZeichneLinie. Then it can easily be found again later. How to define a now project, please check in the chapter Use with AutoCAD on page 148. Also this time you should define a new macro and call it Zeichne. The required commands to draw a line from point (0, 0, 0) to (1, 1, 0) will then look like:
Sub Zeichne() Dim StartPt(0 To 2) As Double Dim EndPt(0 To 2) As Double StartPt(0) StartPt(1) StartPt(2) EndPt(0) = EndPt(1) = EndPt(2) =
= 0 = 0 = 0 1 1 0
ThisDrawing.ModelSpace.AddLine StartPt, EndPt End Sub
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 148 of 157
VBA
SOFiCAD
As you can see, points are always defines as field of Double with the borders 0 up to 2. The borders are checked by AutoCAD – you therefore may not use 1 to 3 (what should be the usual with VBA). After the points have been assigned to their coordinates, one can create a line. For this example the line will be created in the ModelSpace / Tab. Amplify the macro with the following lines (insert directly before End Sub):
Dim UserPt As Variant Dim EndPtUCS As Variant EndPtUCS = ThisDrawing.Utility.TranslateCoordinates (EndPt, acWorld, acUCS, 0) UserPt = ThisDrawing.Utility.GetPoint(EndPtUCS, "Bitte Punkt zeigen") ThisDrawing.ModelSpace.AddLine EndPt, UserPt
In this program piece an entry is queried from the user with the function GetPoint. The first parameter (EndPtUCS) can be used in order to draw a rubber band line; the second parameter is the text of the entry query on the command line. To the contrary of the Autodesk documentation the point must be handed over to the user coordinates. Therefore the end point of the first line (EndPt) has to be translated from world to user coordinates. For it we use the function TranslateCoordinates. Now we also use the data type Variant for the first time. A variable of the type Variant can take up any data type and is often used a return value for points. If you define points by yourself, it’s usually simpler to use the above stated fields. GetPoint also delivers the point in the form of a Variant. In order to also use this point, an other line will be created, which connects the end point of the first line with the entered point. VBA and SOFiCAD Reinforcement Not only AutoCAD objects can be programmed with VBA, even some of the SOFiCAD modules support it. Especially ample is the support for Reinforcement. The new introduced reinforcement entry with the version 15.3 almost exculsiveley uses the same functions to create new elements, which you can also use from VBA. To demonstrate only a few options, we will show here how to create an extract A1 and a distribution of it. First, create again a new macro, this time call it Bewehrung. Then you should tell the program that you would like to use the SOFiCAD-B function. For it, use
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 149 of 157
VBA
SOFiCAD
the menu Extras – Verweise (cross reference) search the list for SOFBOLE and activate the checkmark. Should SOFBOLE not appear in the list, please use the Search… function in the dialogue box in order to select it. It should be in the directory where you’ve installed SOFiCAD-B. The file to be selected is called SOFBOle.tlb. Furthermore you neew a global variable with the name SOFiCADB_App, which is defined in the following way:
Public SOFiCADB_App As Object
Additionally define the function GetSOFBApp:
Function GetSOFBApp() As Object If SOFiCADB_App Is Nothing Then 'Applikationsobjekt holen On Error Resume Next Set GetSOFBApp = GetObject(, "SOFiCADB.Application") If (Err.Number <> 0) Then Err.Clear Set SOFiCADB_App = CreateObject ("SOFiCADB.Application") Set GetSOFBApp = SOFiCADB_App If Err.Number <> 0 Then MsgBox "Bitte starten sie die Bewehrung und rufen sie das Makro erneut auf." End End If Err.Clear End If On Error GoTo 0 Else Set GetSOFBApp = SOFiCADB_App End If End Function
This function serves to make contact with SOFiCAD-B. Its exact function should not be described in depth here. It’s enough to know, that calling the function always deliveres an object which allowes access to the Reinforcement functions. The entire macro will then look like this:
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 150 of 157
VBA
SOFiCAD
Sub Bewehrung() Dim Extract As ISOF_RC_A1Extract Dim App As SOF_B_App Set App = GetSOFBApp Set Extract = App.createA1Extract(, 10, "", 1.2) Dim Laying As ISOF_RC_LinearLaying2 Set Laying = App.createLinearLayingForPos (Extract.Position, 2, 25, 1.2) End Sub
This macro only generates an A1-extract and a linear distribution for it. Both are arranged at the point 0. In order to set attributes, there is a large variety of functions, which can be found in the VBA Object Catalogue (Menu View).
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 151 of 157
Index
Index .bk1 71
AutoLISP 192
.ctb 69
Automatic Saves 71
.dwg 71
Automatical Steel Distribution 141
.mdb 120 .stb 70 .sv$ 71 .wmf 72 3D->2D 93, 112 Absteckpunkte 173 Access 90, 191 acRed 194 Ad-a-Plotter Wizzard 69 Administrator Rights 18, 37 Alignment Path 67 Amount of Layers 63 Amounts 133 Angular Dimension 104 Application 80 Arc Dimension 102 ASCII 174 ATTDIA 75 Ausklinkung 181 Authorization 45 Authorization File 28, 44 Authorization file cannot be found 32 Authorization Files, Several 29 AutoCAD 51
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Bar
AutoSnap 65 AutoTrack 67 Axis 110 BAMTEC 157 Bar Bundle 144 Bar Spacer 138, 149 Base Functions 80 Base Point 58 BASIC-Dialekt 192 Bending 133 Bending List 128, 137 Bent-Ups 145 Bewehrungs-Abbund-MaschinenTechnologie 157 Bewehrungseingabe 195 BFE-Show 137, 164 Bleche 176 Block References 52 Bohrungen 177 Browse 138 Built-In 90, 93 Built-in Components 149 By Phone 11 Catalogue 90, 93
Page 1 of 157
Index
SOFiCAD
Stairs 108
Datenabgleich 190
Walls 106
Default 129
Windows 107
Design Module 136
Catalogue Wizzard 93
DesignCenter 52, 64, 106, 108
Cente Line 113
Desktop 18
Center Mark 103
DIAGNOSIS 86
Chain Dimension 101
Diameter 133, 149
Change 92
Diameter of Mandrel 144
Change Properties 57
Diameters 149
Change/Repair/Remove Installation 39
Dimension 91 Dimensions 134
Client Reference Number 11, 45 Clipboard 72
Directory 25
CMDDIA 75
Distance 105
Compilation 149
Doubble Click 60
Complement 80
Double 195
Components 128
Double Click 85
Concept 10
Drag & Drop 93
Concrete Cover 128
Drawing Area 56
Configuration 17 Confirming the Configurations 35
Dimensionstyle 91, 92
Drawing Content 52 Installation
Connecting Elements 144 Construction Lines 112 Construction Stages 129 Constructive / Civil Engineering 128
Drawing Index 114 Edit Functions 92 Editing Comands 128 Editing Commands 134 Einzelmenge 189 Embankment 111
Current Layer 64
End Marker 145
Cutting 72
EndPtUCS 195
Cutting Sketches 128
Excel 190
DA001 169
Exportbefehle 190
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 2 of 157
Index
Extract Grid 146
Index Tabs 51
Extract Raster 130
Info 141
Extracting 48
InfoEdit 129
Fachwerk 180
Inner Border 98
FEM 157
Installation 17
FILEDIA 75
Installation Type 30
Finite Elemente 157
Standard 30
Fitted Meshes 134, 135
User 31
Flexibility 10
User 30
Folding Marker 90
Installing the hardlock driver 38
Formwork 128
InstallShield 20
Forum 15, 16, 48
Insulations 111
Foundations 151
Integrated Developer Environment 192
FUND 151 Gehrung 180 General Functionalities 51 Generate Distribution 143 Generate Extract 143 GetPoint 195 Gradiente 173 GRIDMODE 73 Grips 57 Hardlock 19 Hardlock Driver 18, 37, 44 Hardlock number 43 Hardlock Number 45 Hatching 94 HIGHLIGHT 75 HLINFO.EXE 43 Hotline 9, 10, 13
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Intelligent Cursor 128 IntelliMouse 58 Internet 12 ISAVEBAK 71 ISAVEPERCENT 77 Joints 110 KA021 169 KA040 169 Koordinatensystem 174 Layer 63, 115 Layer Name 63 Layer Scheme 64 Layout 51, 69 Layout 136 Layout Index 90 Layout Index Tab 52
Page 3 of 157
Index
SOFiCAD
Lengths 128
Network 45, 46
Level Mark 91, 103
Time Limited 45, 46
Library 14
Nested Elements 62
License Agreement 24
Network Hardlock 41, 44
Linear Dimensioning 91
New Layout 52
List 106
New Profile 26
List Mesh 135, 148
Numbers 128
Local Hardlock 43, 45
Object Properties 56
Main View 134
Object Snap 60, 65
Mandrel 131
Restrictions 66
Manuals 14
Object Snap Modes 65
MBUTTONPAN 60, 78
Object Snap tracking
MEASUREMENT 79
Using 67
Mengen nachführen 189
Object Snap Tracking 67
Mengen zuordnen 188
Office Address 46
Mesh Fileds 134
Office Standard 130
Mesh Row 134
Online-Helps 14
Mesh Style 139
Operatin System Requirements 17
Meshes 149
OSMODE 78
Meshes General 147
OSNAP 65
Method 136
OSNAPCOORD 76
Model 51
Outer Dimensions 133
Model Tab 69, 100
Page Formate 149
Modular System 10
Page Formates
Mouse Wheel 58
User defined 101
Multiple Document 70
User Defined 99
Multiplier 130
Page Margins 97
NAME.NAM 19, 28, 44
Page Setups 69
Local Hardlock 45
Page Size 69
Module 45
Palette Contents 53
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 4 of 157
Index
Pan 60
Profil 179
Pan Function 59
Profile 25
Paper Space 69
Project Database 120
Parameter 141
Project Explorer 120
Part Lengths 128
Properties 56
Partial Dimensioning 133
Property Dialogue 129
PC3 Files 68
Property Dialogue 128
PCMCIA-Card 19
Punching Reinforcement 152
Pens 94
Purge 61
Plan Database 135
Querneigungsband 173
Plan Management 120, 121
Radialbewehrung 153
Plan Setup 95, 100
Raumstempel 187
Plan Stamp 90
Recover 84
Plan Stocks 120
Rectangle 93
Plans 90
Reference Point 89
Plot Style 69
Regelquerschnitt 173
Plot Style Types
Regenerate 118
Named 69
Registration 15
Plot Style Types Color-Dependent 69
Reinforcement 150 Reinforcement distribution 133
Plott Manager 68
Reinforcement Plans 150
Plotter Configuration Files 68
Reinforcement Proposal 152
Pointing Devices 17
Relative Point Entry 89
Polygonal Mesh Distribution/Laying 147
Repair 83
Position 129, 140, 149 Position Numbers 129 Position Plans 92 Preview 55 Printer 19
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Repairing Files 83 Rest Meshes 134 Right Click 58 Right-Click Menu 128 Ringbewehrung 153 Rollout-Plan 160
Page 5 of 157
Index
SOFiCAD
Rollrichtung 165
SOFiCADB_App 196
Rotate Wheel 60
SOFiMACH 85
Round Steel 149
SOFiSTiK AG 10
Rounding Values 135
SOFSTLI.TAB 149
RunningOobject Snap 66
Solid Stairs 92
SAVEFILE 71
Specific Design Tasks 67
SAVEFILEPATH 71
Split 93
SAVETIME 71
Stair Development 108
Schrauben 177
Stairs 92
Schweißnähte 177, 183
Standar stairs 108
Schweißnahtsymbole 184
Standard Installation 30
Secondary Scale Area 114
Standard Layer 64
Secondary Scales 100
Start Installation 20
Secondary View 134
Steel Amount 149
Select Grips 58
Steel Bar Dimensioning 133
Select Program Directory 34
Steel Bar Style 134, 139
Selection Methos 57
Steel Li 150
ServicePacks 13, 47
Steel List 136, 137, 149
Setup 113
Steellist 128
SETUP.TXT 35
Steife 177
Several Layouts 51
Stirnplattenverbindung 182
Several SOFiCAD-Versions 25
Stirrup Mesh 135, 148
Shop Drawings 90
Style 130, 139
Similarity Values 135
Support 13
Single Foundations 151
Support Connections 151
Single Mesh 134, 147
Symbol Catalogues 93
Sleve Connections 151
Symbol Libraries 52
Sleve Foundations 151
System Administrator 18
SOFBOLE 196
System Variables 73
SOFiCAD 80, 150
Tabellenausgabe 190
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 6 of 157
Index
Table 149
User Profiles 25
Target Box 66
User Specific 17
Teddy 88
Utilities 84
Templates 52
Variant 195
Timber Stairs 92
VBA 192
Title Block 121
VBA-DIE 192
Tracking Points 67
VER 80
Traffic Curves 94
Version Numbers 80
Traffic Lane 94, 112
View Window 136
Training 16
View Windows 51, 90, 95
TranslateCoordinates 195
Visual Basic for Applications 192
Trasse definieren 173
Vollautomat 158
Turn on Object Snaps 65
Volumes 103
Type 149
Weight 149
Type of Distribution / Laying 133
Windows 93
Type of Laying / Distribution 132
WINSTLI 149
UCSFOLLOW 76
Working Directory 27
Update 28
X-Irons 131
USB-Interface 19
Zentralbewehrung 153
User Installation 30
Zoom Function 59
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3
Page 7 of 157