How to Convert PDF to AutoCAD

One question many CAD users ask is if there is an easy way to convert PDF to AutoCAD format. Well, now there is an easy, and best of all, FREE solution for you. PDFAutoCAD is a free PDF to DWG  and DXF conversion for AutoCAD-designed PDFs.

Some of its distinct features are:

• High quality conversions with lines, arcs, scale presets and texts preserved, and no need for further touch-ups.
• Files of up to 40MB can be uploaded and converted quickly.
• All uploaded user data, including emails, is deleted in accordance with their privacy policy.
• Everything is free - they support themselves via ads on the homepage (please, don’t be confused by them).

I've used this site myself and find it very useful. Check it out here.

Android Application Programming Basics

Today I’m going to share a few of my notes about Android Application programming basics. Recently I’ve been trying to learn how to program Android applications. This post is not directly related to CAD but I will hopefully one day be creating some Android applications for CAD users.

Android Programming Acronyms

• SDK = software development kit
• DP = density pixels
• IDE = Integrated Development Environment
• UI = User Interface

Android apps are written in Java. I think it’s much harder to learn than writing macros for CATIA V5. When you write a macro, you can type up the code in a simple text editor and it is read top to bottom like a book. When writing code for Android applications, code must be inserted into at least three different locations within the Eclipse IDE software.

Pages or screens in Android apps are known as Activities. An Intent is a communicator with another application and you use it to change screens. To create a new activity right click on package: New>Class. Give it a name and set Super class as Activity, which will be a java file. Each activity needs a layout file (.xml) created by going to New>Android xml. Name it file_name.xml. Xml is a way to organize information with structure (as opposed to just using a text file). The xml file is used to organize the layout and properties of all the text, input boxes, buttons, images, etc. Buttons use a method called OnClickListener.

Alright, that might have sounded confusing to you, especially if you’ve never programmed before, so I’m going to leave it at that for now. Would you like to learn more about Android application programming? Please let me know and I will write more detailed posts. I’ve recently created two Android applications and they are available in the Google Play store for Free here.

In your opinion, what are the best CAD apps out there?

CATIA Lego Training Download

I’ve long looked for a good LEGO CAD program and today I’ve finally found one. John B Cearns, founder and

owner of Solid Engineering Solutions, has created an outstanding exercise to help students learn how to use CATIA’s Assembly Design workbench while being super fun at the same time.

While building the Lego model you’ll learn how to use catalogs in CATIA to create different Lego blocks in 3D. Not all the parts required to make the Four Wheeler and Rebel Wrecker are present in the CATParts folder. There are 72 parts missing from this folder but they have provided 12 tabulated parts for you to use to easily create the missing 72 parts. Step by step instructions are provided in the documentation for both sets.  The Four Wheeler contains 102 different parts and the total parts are 338. The Rebel Wrecker contains 123 different parts and the total parts are 468.

The free download contains all instructions necessary to assemble the Four Wheel and Rebel Wrecker. Or, if you just want to build the physical Lego sets you could just do that as well using these instructions. Get them here:

 http://www.solengsol.com/solid_engineering_downloads.htm

After you have created these two CATProduct models, there is a wealth of Kinematics joints you can perform on them: Revolute Joint, Cylindrical Joint, Spherical Joint, Rigid Joint, Universal Joint, Gear Joint, Cable Joint, and Rack Joint. The Lego parts also use a relation law created by a Multiple Value User Parameter to define the color: PartBody.Color = PartBodyColor.

This exercise is a great example if you want to use CATIA or other CAD software as a Lego design software. Many different bricks can be created from the template of a few using catalogs. All around, I highly recommend checking out this tutorial because, as I said, it is a lot of fun and very educational too (and it's free)!

Download the Lego CAD files and instructions here:http://www.solengsol.com/solid_engineering_downloads.htm
Please note: CATIA V5 R19 is required.

Kinect Hack Video: CATIA V5 Manipulation

KinectCAD for CATIA V5

I recently stumbled upon one of the coolest Kinect applications I’ve ever seen. The Kinect is Microsoft’s Xbox 360’s latest webcam style peripheral. This new high tech toy permits users to “be the controller” through natural user interface (NUI) by controlling the game with their voice and body movements. Microsoft took it a step further and released the Kinect software development kit (SDK) for Windows 7 allowing developers to write Kinect applications in C++, C#, or Visual Basic .NET. There are numerous “Kinect hacking” videos on YouTube. One such user has now manipulated the Kinect to provide a gesture based movement of CATIA part objects.

How to use Kinect with CATIA V5? Using this new application in development it is now possible to rotate and zoom in or out of your new Kinect 3D CAD model while standing in front of your monitor and using your arms. It gets even better: utilizing Kinect’s built in microphone there is a rudimentary speech recognition function you can use to change the rotation axes. Can you imagine creating every part in CATIA this way (or any other CAD system for that matter)?

Using the SDK V1 software for Kinect, KinectCAD has been created in Visual C# 2010. It may be a slow way to work (at first) but is a brilliant concept nonetheless. Pretty soon we’ll be seeing 3d Kinect models of all our CAD parts. It would be a great way for automakers to perform layout check in conference rooms (and funny to watch  too). Hats off to the creators and I can’t wait to see more. Checkout the Kinect video recording below:

Please note: this program is still in development.  To learn more please visit this site. So, what do you think of KinectCAD? What other applications could you see between Xbox Kinect and CATIA V5? Please leave a comment below!

Importing AutoCAD Drawings into CATIA

 How to convert DXF drawings into CATIA CATPart sketches 

There's a little trick I use when I need to copy and paste DXF 2D drawing views from AutoCAD into a sketch for a CATPart file. First of all, if you attempt to simply copy and paste a drawing view directly into the part file you may get something that looks the image picture below- a jumbled mess of data, points, and lines. 

In order to fix this problem to import the drawing data completely, open the dxf file in CATIA. Next, save the drawing as an IG2 file (which is a 2D iges file). Now open the IG2 file and copy the main view into the CATPart. Or, another option is you can rename your IG2 2D file in Windows as .igs and then open that file and it will be imported in CATIA as a 3D part file. Sometimes you have to get creative and employ these little work-arounds to get the software to do exactly what you want it to do.

How to Insert Symbols in Excel

I've created a new "How To" video tutorial showing you how to insert symbols, like the degree sign, into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, using three different methods including the character map.

What is CATIA UUID?

One of the biggest CATIA mysteries for new users is what is UUID and what does it stand for? UUID stands for a Universal Unique IDentifier. Every CATPart and CATProduct contains a UUID. Basically, CATIA identifies files based on their file name and their UUID. Where problems occur are when two pieces of data have the same UUID. Compounding the problem, the UUID can’t be viewed or edited with any current CATIA function. There are cases when two files may have different names but share the same UUID.

Actions which will create new UUID include:

·        File + new

·        File + new from

·        File + save As - option save as new document

·        INSERT new Product

·        INSERT new part

·        Document Template Creation

Actions which will keep the same UUID for each include:

·        File + open

·        File + save management

·        File + save

·        File + SaveAs

·        Send to directory

·        File + CLOSE

·        File + save

·        File + save ALL

How do you simulate rolling in CATIA?

This is anupdate of an older post. I've created a brand new tutorial with step-by-step instructions detailing how to use CATIA V5's DMU kinematics workbench to simulate a rolling object.

First, in assembly design, create a new product and insert two new parts, one name Wheel and the other Ramp. 

I've explained this before but as a real quick overview, to create my ramp I used three sketches (overhead, side profile, and rotation about itself sketch) and combined them with laws. The wheel is a simple sketch and pad command. On my ramp I have two parallel curves 5mm apart. On my wheel I also have two parallel curves offset from each other 5mm. I added a point to one of the edges of the wheels so you can see it spin around in a circle when we simulate it. 

Add a Fix constraint to the ramp to ensure it does not move. It's absolutely vital that the curves on the wheel and the curves on the ramp are tangent to each other. Even a 0.001 gap and it will not work. Use coincidence restraints to pair them together if you have to. Also make sure your ramp is nice and smooth and much bigger than your wheel.

Now it's time to go into the DMU Kinematics workbench. Create a new mechanism and set the ramp as the fixed part. I can constrain all degrees of freedom using only two joints. The first joint is a roll curve joint between curve 1 on the wheel and curve 1 on the ramp. This is a length driven joint meaning you will input the rolling distance over time from the start point. The second joint is a slide curve joint between curve 2 on the wheel and curve 2 on the ramp.

Once you get the hang of it you can simulate more complex systems, like a full-scale roller coaster! 

CATIA KINEMATICS ROLLING TUTORIAL VIDEO: 

View my Introduction to CATIACATScript Macros Video Tutorial.

Learn AutoCAD for Dummies Review

AutoCAD is one of the leading 2D software used by engineers, architects, and designers. AutoCAD 2012 for Dummies quickly brings readers up-to-date on the latest version with all the new additions and revisions to the program. This book includes great colored illustrations and tutorials to help users better understand the material. This book was a huge help to me, someone used to running AutoCAD 2005 when I needed to, but am now making the upgrade to AutoCAD 2012. Believe it or not, even with model based definition where data is contained with 3D models, I am still needing to go to AutoCAD from time to time to whip up a quick drawing for a fixture or jig. As a mechanical engineer, it never hurts to stay up to date on the latest software available and this book is a great way to do that.

I do want to note this book is written specially for Windows users (sorry MAC peeps).

Purchase AutoCAD 2012 for Dummies and start learning how to use AutoCAD today!

Download Architects Cad Drawings

Are you looking for AutoCAD symbols, details & drawings? Download Architects Cad Drawings contains a huge database of downloadable CAD symbols, drawings, details, and building templates in AutoCAD format. This symbols are perfect for creating floor plans or site layouts.

This is the perfect resource for CAD draftsmen and CAD technicians. There are over 6500 CAD files to download from. Click Here!

Dealing with Different Versions of CATIA

Only one version of CATIA V5 can be registered with Windows at a given time. If you have R16, R17, and R18SP2 installed on your PC, only one of these is currently registered. You can find which one is registered by looking at the directory when you register. To automate a specific version of CATIA you first have t register that version with Windows. Here are the steps to un-register or re-register a CATIA V5 version:
 
1.        Reboot your pc
2.        Open a command prompt
3.        CD to the unload directory of the version of CATIA you want to un-register (i.e. “c\program files\dassault systemes\B15\intel_a\code\bin”)
4.        Run the command “cnext-unregserver”
5.        Open up the task manager and wait until the “cnext” process stops running (which may take a few minutes)
6.        CD to the unload directory of the version of CATIA you want to register (i.e. “c\program files\dassault systems\B16\intel_a\code\bin”)
7.        Run the command “cnext-regserver”
8.        In the task manager again, wait until the “cnext” process stops
9.        Open up VB and check that the correct version is registered
10.        Please note this only needs to be done between full releases and not service packs!

Evolution of Computer Skills of a Mechanical Engineer

Trust me, I'm an Engineer! This is sad but true. Excel is a great and powerful tool. I think you could group PowerPoint into that category too. I also enjoy the engineering flow chart!

Theo Jansen Mechanism Matlab Code M-file

 A few readers have requested the full m file for the Theo Jansen mechanism. I've uploaded it here. If the download won't work for you lease me your email address and I will gladly send it to you. Please don't just copy the file. This is meant for reference only. In other words, figure it out on your own!

http://cadsystemshelp.blogspot.com/2010/04/theo-jansen-mechanism-matlab-code.html

Theo Jansen Mechanism Matlab Code.doc download 

*7/22/2011 download link should be fixed now!

How can I obtain my CATIA target ID?

What is a target ID? A target ID is a code calculated on your computer which identifies your computer which is then used to generate the license key for your software. This target ID is something Dassault Systems products use to license the software to your machine or to the specific server that will be running the purchased licenses from. 

How do you obtain the target ID number? There are two basic procedures to go about getting the target ID.  You can download a free TargetID.zip utility from the internet which will tell you directly what the TargetID number is.

The second method for obtaining CATIA's target ID is to follow these steps. Please note that the LUM server should preferably be a server that will remain on at all times so that all users can access the licenses at any time.

1. If LUM is not already installed, please download and install the correct version of LUM for the operating system that you are working with. 
   
2. For Windows users, double click on arkwin468.exe from the folder where you downloaded LUM.  Take the defaults and complete the installation.
   
3. Select Start -> Run and type in cmd.  At the command prompt, please type the following:   i4target –O  (Note that the O must be capitalized.)  The highlighted information listed under the LUM Target ID section is the target ID.
   

What if I do not plan to license my software on a Windows Environment?

• AIX/IBM Workstations open up a Terminal Window and type in the following;
  
  • For V5"i4target -O" (minus the quotes)for V4 type in"uname–m" (minus the quotes) and remove the zeros in the front and in the rear.
    
• HPUX/HP Workstations open up a Terminal Window and type in the following;
  
  • "i4target" (minus the quotes)
    
• IRIX - SGI Workstations open up a Terminal Window and type in the  following;
  
  • "sysinfo"(minus the quotes)
    
• SunOS/Solaris - Sun Workstations open up a Terminal Window and type in the following;
  
  • "hostid" (minus the quotes)
    

Please note that Virtual Machines CAN NOT be setup as license servers.

What is a Mylar drawing?

Mylar is a trade name for bopet (biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate) polyester film. Also known as Melinex or Hostaphan, this transparent, durable material is used in food storage, insulation and sailing, but it is perhaps best known for its applications in the graphic arts, most notably for CAD drawings. A few customary drawing techniques enhance its positive attributes.


Architects and engineers use Mylar in designing their work. The schematics are drawn up, usually by a computer program such as AutoCAD, and then printed. Schematics on Mylar reflect the depth and dimension of the finished project more easily than blueprints. Once the Mylar is drawn up, these illustrations become part of the legally binding agreement between contractors, the employer and the design firm. 

   
Many companies today are in the process of taking their un-dimensioned drawings on stable-based material (Mylars) and preserving them by fully integrating the legacy Mylars into the automated work environment through digitization and subsequent storage capacities.

One frequent problem often encountered in this transfer of data is projects may require a very precise tolerance of +/-.005" accuracy over any five- or ten-inch area for the digital scanned files. The drawings are on Mylar, which is a plastic sheeting material that may be affected over the years by changes in temperature. This means that the older drawings may have stretched or otherwise changed in size, affecting the accuracy of the drawing itself. The accuracy of the final digital file is of paramount importance. These digital files are stored in an electronic repository as a permanent archive for all of our drawings. If we need to refer to these digital drawings, or print out a new paper drawing, it is essential that the measurements be as accurate as, if not better than the original Mylar drawing when it was new.

  More information on un-dimensioned Mylars:

• An un-dimensioned drawing presents the engineering definition graphically without the use of numerical dimensions.
  
• Sizes and relationships of un-dimensioned features are determined by scaling the original drawing or by scaling a stable reproduction made from it.
  
• Un-dimensioned drawing forms are identified by the letters PCM or "Photo Contact Master."
  
• Effectivity notes indicate part replacement, upgrades and modifications for various models.
  

Un-dimensioned drawings are typically used to define parts with all or a majority of tolerances plus or minus .030" or greater. This includes sheet metal parts, extrusions, cable assemblies, and wiring harnesses.

What are the components of a Mylar drawing?

• Title block
  
• Bill of materials
  

What information can be found in a bill of material?

• Part number
  
• Description
  
• Zone
  
• Quantity
  
• Material Specifications
  
• Extrusion callouts
  
• Thickness and size
  
• Flag notes
  
• Revision level
  

What are common abbreviations found on Mylar drawings?

• ECN: Engineering Change Notice
• ECO: Engineering Change Order
• PCR: Project Change Request
• PCM: Photo Contact Master
• A.N.D: Army Navy Drawing
• BDN: bend down
• BUP: bend up
• BR: bend radius
• R: radius
• TYP: typical
• JOG: joggle
• SHN: shown
• OPP: opposite
• FLG: flange
• EOP: edge of part

Download Architects Cad Drawings - CAD symbols, drawings, and details

 

The Future of Assembly Instructions: 3D

You buy a bookcase from your local cabinet store. You want to repair a component in your car engine. For the first task, you may be supplied with paper instructions that are very confusing and inconvenient. There are five copies in five different languages when all you want is English. Or, for task two, there are no instructions but you’re not a mechanic so you have no idea what to do.  In the future, both of these situations will be remedied by 3D Instruction and How-to manuals. Gone are the days of paper instructions. Welcome to the era of looking on your smart phone for a step-by-step simulation of how to repair your vehicle without any prior mechanic’s knowledge. 3D Via, xml, and PDFs will be supplied on a disk or flash drive or, even better, as an internet downloaded included with the cost of the product. This is the future. Check out the video and article link below.

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