kajicad blog

How to find the rotation angle of a layout viewport?

2009-02-21T06:46:00.000+07:00

The angle of the current rotation of a viewport contents - e.g. from the command MVSETUP > Align viewports > Rotate view - is stored in the VIEWTWIST variable (you must be in the modelspace of the respective viewport).

You can also find the rotation with the VIEW command - Current view angle values.

Limiting RAM usage when plotting raster images.

2009-02-21T06:45:00.000+07:00

When plotting drawings with raster images, AutoCAD may consume large amounts or RAM memory.

Since version 2007 you can limit the amount of this consumed memory through the variables RASTERPERCENT and RASTERTHRESHOLD. On the other hand, too low values (settings) of these variables can inadverently block plotting of larger drawings (maps).

The RASTERTHRESHOLD variable (by default: 20MB) controls the threshold of raster memory in megabytes. If the plotted raster image exceeds the limit, the availability of system memory is checked and the plot is aborted if the image is too big for the available memory.

The RASTERPERCENT variable (by default: 20%) sets the maximum percent of the available virtual memory which can be reserved for raster image plotting.

In case of problems you can try to increase the values to 100MB and 90%.

How to switch AutoCAD 2009 back to the original UI with pull-down menus?

2009-02-21T06:42:00.000+07:00

AutoCAD 2009 and LT 2009 starts by default with the new user interface (UI) utilizing the Ribbon. If you prefer to revert back to the classic interface, you can close the ribbon (the RIBBONCLOSE command) and enable the pull-down menus - set the MENUBAR variable to 1.

You can achieve similar results also by switching your workspace to the predefined status "AutoCAD Classic" (with the WSCURRENT variable or by clicking on the gear icon on the right side of the bottom status line).

Geo-marker: an unselectable cone-arrow in AutoCAD drawings

2009-02-21T06:38:00.002+07:00

If you find a 2D arrow ("flower") or a color 3D cone in your drawing and this entity cannot be selected, it is probably the "geomarker" placed to that position with the GEOGRAPHICLOCATION command:

This command sets the geographic location of the current drawing (model, project) - e.g. for export to Google Earth, sun lighting or environment calculations/analysis.

There are three ways to specify the geo-location:

1. manually enter the latitude and longitude data (e.g. from a GPS), plus the north direction
2. import (load) the current position from the running Google Earth application
3. import an existing KML or KMZ file in the Google Maps format (see e.g. the KML file with Xanadu offices - you can enter its web URL directly in the Import KML dialog)

You can switch off the marker with the GEOMARKERVISIBILITY variable.

AutoCAD freezes or has very slow startup.

2009-02-21T06:32:00.000+07:00

During the application launch, AutoCAD practically freezes and doesn't paint the toolbars.

On a off-line computer (not connected to the Internet), this may be caused by the security communication.

Start Internet Explorer and go to Tools > Internet Options > Advanced tab > Settings > Security. In this section, clear the Publisher's Certificate Revocation check box. Exit by OK.

Now restart AutoCAD.

Flip dimension arrows - outside extension lines.

2009-02-20T06:55:00.000+07:00

You can force the dimension arrowheads outside the extension lines even when text does fit.

Use the AIDIMFLIPARROW command. It is available also in the dimension entity context (right-click) menu - "Flip arrow" (the 6th item in AutoCAD 2009).

How to protect users from saving password-protected DWG drawings?

2009-02-20T06:49:00.002+07:00

You can disable Security functions during custom installation of AutoCAD.

In an already installed AutoCAD-based application, you can disable passwords using a registry setting.

Use Regedit to open the key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Autodesk\AutoCAD\Rxx.x\ACAD-xxxx:xxx\Applications\AcSecOpt

and set the AllowEncryption value to 0. You can change the value even when AutoCAD is running. You can force the change using Windows group policy.

Locked layers displayed faded.

2009-02-20T06:43:00.000+07:00

Locked layers - resp. objects in locked layers - are displayed by default with 50% fading (dimmed). If you want to see the entities in locked layers in full color (not grayed), or with higher dimming, set your LAYLOCKFADECTL variable.

Be careful when naming your AutoCAD action macros.

2009-02-20T06:40:00.001+07:00

Action macros you record with the ACTRECORD command can be assigned any name you choose except for the names of AutoCAD internal commands. Macros are then stored to the individual files myMACRONAME.ACTM in the default folder c:\Documents and Settings\username\Application Data\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2009\R17.2\enu\Support\Actions.

AutoCAD scans this folder after you launch a session and loads any ACTM macros it finds here. You cannot name your macro after an internal command name and AutoCAD even refuses to load an ACTM file which was renamed manually.

But be careful - this protection applies only to the names of AutoCAD commands, not to any external (user-defined) commands you may have defined in your LISP applications (defun c:CMDNAME), other add-on programming tool or even a PGP command alias. You can effectively map out (disable, hide, overlay) your existing commands when you inadverently assign a "wrong" name to your action macro. Your commands, menus, scripts and LISP utilities may suddenly and magically cease to work!

Command/macros can be also overlaid in the opposite way - if you name an action macro the same as an AutoCAD localized command name (it allows you to do this), such macro will run the original command, not the recorded actions.

How to switch off the InfoCenter function in AutoCAD or Map?

2009-02-20T06:35:00.001+07:00

You can use the CAD Manager utility to deactivate the InfoCenter and Communication Center. But if you want to disable this function completely, you can use the Registry setting (Regedit).

In the Registry tree go to:

HKLM\Software\Autodesk\AutoCAD\R17.X\ACAD-XXXX:XXX\Applications\InfoCenterAcConn

and set the LoadCtrls key to 0. Restart AutoCAD.

My AutoCAD does not recognize the PDFATTACH command.

2009-02-19T17:32:00.000+07:00

If AutoCAD 2009 reports PDFATTACH, PDFLAYERS, PDFCLIP or PDFADJUST as unknown commands, you have probably not installed the Bonus Pack 2.

These commands are included in the "Subscription Bonus Pack 2", not in the basic version of AutoCAD 2009.

Download and install the Bonus Pack 2 from your Subscription Center.

Forcing DWG format version for save in AutoCAD.

2009-02-19T17:27:00.001+07:00

AutoCAD allows to save DWG drawing files also in older versions of the DWG format. This setting for the DWG format can be done in the Options dialog, on the "Open and Save" tab.

With the following less-known trick you can force an older save format also from a menu macro, from a LISP utility or through a site-wide setting in the Registry (e.g. using GPO, logon script, etc.).

The default save format in AutoCAD is controlled by the environment variable "DefaultFormatForSave". This value is stored in the Registry - e.g.:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Autodesk\AutoCAD\R17.2\ACAD-7001:409\Profiles\<<>>\General

and you can set it with the function (setenv).

This variable can be set to the following values:

* 48 - AutoCAD 2010 DWG format (estimated)
* 36 - AutoCAD 2007 DWG format
* 24 - AutoCAD 2004 DWG format
* 12 - AutoCAD 2000 DWG format

So e.g. the function (setenv "DefaultFormatForSave" "24") will set the default save format in AutoCAD 2009 to DWG2004.

How to customize properties displayed in the Properties palette?

2009-02-19T11:17:00.000+07:00

If you want show only specific properties (categories) in the Properties palette (window, panel) and supress all other items, you can use the new Quick properties panel (Ctrl+Shift+P) instead of Properties. The older Properties palette can be customized only programmatically.

The "Quick properties" panel is fully customizable and you can setup which properties are displayed for which object types - use the CUI dialog.

The display mode fo the Quick properties panel is controlled by the variables QPLOCATION and QPMODE.

How to disable the pop preview when printing from AutoCAD to PDF?

2009-02-19T11:16:00.000+07:00

First make sure you are using the latest Autodesk PDF driver for AutoCAD 2009. Download the PDF Bonus Pack from your Subscription center.

Then go to the properties of the "DWG to PDF bonus Pack.pc3" printer, and in the User properties uncheck the option "Open in PDF viewer when done".

If you are printing over a Windows virtual PDF printer, follow the settings of your specific printer application.

How to display full path to a DWG drawing in AutoCAD window title?

2009-02-19T11:14:00.001+07:00

You can enable showing the full path of your drawing file (disk, folder/directory, filename) in AutoCAD title bar by checking the "Display full path in title" box on the "Open and Save" tab of the OPTIONS dialog.

How to use gravity in 3ds Max?

2009-01-24T09:49:00.003+07:00

Gravity is one of the force types in 3ds Max. You can set it up using "Space Warps". Gravity force and especially the direction of the earth gravity can be set in the menu: Create > SpaceWarps > Forces > Gravity :

Gravity can be also used in the dynamic functionality of the Biped moduly (Character Studio).

How to generate Piranesi EPix files from AutoCAD and 3ds Max?

2009-01-24T09:47:00.001+07:00

EPIX format files for the 3D illustration software Piranesi (Informatix) can be saved from AutoCAD, Architectural Desktop, Civil 3D, Autodesk VIZ or 3ds Max. For this export you can use the plug-in modules available on the Piranesi web - plug-ins.

EPix files can be directly exported from Autodesk Navisworks.

Another option is to use the Vedute (IIRC) viewer distributed with Piranesi, as this application can convert DXF and 3DS files to Piranesi EPix and EPix panorama files (.EPX, .EPP).

Some materials are rendered as black only.

2009-01-24T09:45:00.000+07:00

When using FBX/Revit shaders on ProMaterials-type materials, the objects are rendering black on computers with AMD processors that do not support the SSE2 instruction set.

3ds max 9 error: The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000005).

2009-01-24T09:38:00.001+07:00

When you try to run 3ds max 9 or VIZ Render in Windows Vista, the following error message is displayed:

The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000005). Click OK to terminate the application.

Right-click on the Max desktop icon and choose the function "Run As Administrator". Or select the item Properties and on the Compatibility tab check the option "Run this program as Administrator".

Inventor Professional setup stops 2 seconds before end.

2009-01-24T07:11:00.000+07:00

The Inventor Pro installation program stops on a "Removing backup files" message.

Close or minimize other windows in MS Windows - the setup program displays a dialog prompting to insert the CD #3.

How to load IDW drawings faster in Inventor 7?

2009-01-24T07:09:00.000+07:00

In Inventor 7 SP1 and Inventoru Professional 7 SP1 you can load .IDW files faster after you apply the "IDW Open Enhancement" fix (use only after SP1!).

How to import a .BRD, .BDF, or .IDB file in Inventor?

2009-01-24T07:08:00.000+07:00

The IDF Translator module in Autodesk Inventor Professional loads PCB files in .brd, .bdf, .idb and .emn formats.
Also Mechanical Desktop (included in Inventor Series) imports IDF files.

What is the ANSYS.EXE process running in Inventor?

2009-01-24T07:06:00.001+07:00

ANSYS.EXE is a computation process of the FEM module in Inventor Professional. It is active (and may acquire lots of system resources) during the stress analysis calculation. This process is indicated by a yellow lightning icon in Windows system tray.

How to disable automatic merging of parts with matching Part Numbers in Inventor 10 BOM?

2009-01-24T07:04:00.002+07:00

If you want to get rid of the new function in Inventor 10 parts list and do not want to merge parts with identical Part Numbers, use the hotfix "Inventor 10 BOM mod - merging of matching part numbers". It adds an option for disabling the merging functionalit.

How to model a 3D spiral in Inventor?

2009-01-24T07:01:00.000+07:00

If you need to model a 3D spiral in Inventor (e.g. a 3D pipe path, own spring type, wind up a hose or cable on a reel, etc.) you can use the "Project to Surface" function in 3D sketch. You can wrap an angled line on a cylindrical surface.

Then you can sweep a profile along this 3D path or generate a wire or pipe system.

How to add slack to Inventor cables?

2009-01-24T06:57:00.001+07:00

There are several ways for adding slack to cables in Inventor Professional:

1. Embedded Length
The length of the wire that will be inserted into a connector or pin. This value can be defined in custom properties of the connector (splice) or pin (splice pin). See also the harness settings (Wires/Cables tab).

2. Global Slack
Extra length added to wires and cables as a percentage of their length. See the harness settings (Wires/Cables tab).

3. Service Loop
Value applied to segment which adds length to the segment itself and all routed wires in the segment. You can define this option at segment custom properties (segments with routed wires/cables).

4. Round Off/Round Up
A parameter used to increase the wire and segment length to the specified increment defined in harness settings (General tab). In this way you can specify a realistic length that can be easily measured and cut.

So the total adjusted lenght is computed as the original length of the wire with the addition of the Embedded Length, Global Slack, Service Loop and Round Up values.

Edit block attributes in multiple layouts.

2009-01-22T17:50:00.000+07:00

If you want to globally edit attributes of blocks inserted in multiple layouts (e.g. title blocks), you can use the Express Tools command - GATTE.

As prompted, select one of the block references, enter the new text and confirm the Process all of them? prompt.

INTERNAL ERROR: !dbspace.cpp@3553: eWrongDatabase on "Bring to Front" command.

2009-01-22T17:49:00.000+07:00

Your DWG drawing (the drawing database) is corrupted. Try to load your drawing into AutoCAD (the newest available version), perform AUDIT and save it back. If your drawing references any XRefs, perform the same on the XRefs first.

Retry the DRAWORDER command.

DWG Viewer.

2009-01-22T17:46:00.000+07:00

What viewer can be used to display/view .DWG files?

To view DWG files up to version 2002 you can use the free Autodesk viewer Volo View Express. It supports DWG, DXF and DWF files, Object Enablers (for viewing Desktop drawings and other custom entities) and can be also embedded into other applications as an ActiveX object.

For DWG versions 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and higher you can use newer Autodesk applications - the free Autodesk DWG TrueView (supports also object enablers), "Autodesk DWG Viewer" or "Powered by Volo View". Autodesk Design Review (former "Autodesk DWF Composer", replacing older 'Volo View') supports (besides viewing, measuring and printing) also electronic redlining of DWG and DXF files with publishing to the DWF format.

You can download the Autodesk DWG TrueView viewer and Volo View Express from www.xanadu.cz/download and find more information about Design Review and DWG TrueView.

There are also several non-Autodesk DWG viewing applications but their results are not ideal (except for those using the official RealDWG/ObjectDBX libraries from Autodesk, like e.g. Cyco AutoManager View).

To publish, distribute and view CAD files, use rather the DWF publishing format.

How to convert MDT parts to AutoCAD 3D solids?

2009-01-22T17:45:00.000+07:00

You can just use the EXPLODE command or a conversion through ACIS - the AMACISOUT command in Mechanical Desktop and ACISIN in AutoCAD.

How to set font (style) for Amnotes, surface texture symbols?

2009-01-22T17:44:00.001+07:00

If the texts in your notes and symbols are displayed in a too bold font, you have probably not set properly the note properties for your drawing standard in AutoCAD Mechanical.

In the Options dialog on the AM:Standard tab (the AMOPTIONS command) double-click on the standard (e.g. "DIN") on the top of the tree (on the right). In the "Standard Properties" dialog then check the option "Link to Dimension Style", click on the radio button "Apply to Leaders Only" and in the list of predefined text styles select the required style (font).

For a one-time change of the font you can also directly set the text style ACISOTS.

Model import error: Coincident face_face_ints with different body vertices.

2009-01-22T17:42:00.000+07:00

After a SAT or STEP import (ACISIN, STEPIN) of a 3D model, AutoCAD displays the message:

Failed to calculate silhouettes of a face.
Modeling Operation Error:
Coincident face_face_ints with different body vertices.

This is one of the error messages of the ACIS/Shapemanager modeller. There are probably overlapping faces, small (very thin) wedges or gaps in the imported 3D model. Try to locate the complaining body and fix it in the source application (e.g. Inventor).

You can also use the AMSTITCH function in Mechanical Desktop:

1. Explode the part to an AutoCAD 3D solid
2. Start AMSTITCH and select the solid
3. In the Surface Stitching dialog, under Stitch Type, select Custom Stitching
4. In the Operation area, select Heal gaps

Keyboard shortcuts defined in AutoCAD.

2009-01-22T17:40:00.000+07:00

The standard AutoCAD menu (MNU/MNS/CUI) defines the following hotkeys:

F1 displays help
F2 displays text window
F3 switches object snaps
F4 toggles table mode
F5 toggles isometric planes
F6 toggles DUCS (switches coordinate display, till A2006)
F7 toggles grid display
F8 toggles ortho mode
F9 toggles snap
F10 toggles polar tracing
F11 toggles object tracing
F12 toggles dynamic input (2006+)

ESC cancel changes, cancel grips
TAB cycles osnaps
SHIFT (on object selection) removes objects
DEL erases objects (hold when pointing)

Ctrl+0 toggles clean-screen mode (2004+)
Ctrl+1 displays Properties window
Ctrl+2 displays DesignCenter window
Ctrl+3 displays Tool palette (2004+)
Ctrl+4 displays Sheet Set Manager, or Content Manager (2005+, ADT2004)
Ctrl+5 displays Info Palette, or Project Navigator (2005-2007, ADT2004)
Ctrl+6 displays dBConnect window
Ctrl+7 displays Markup Manager (2005)
Ctrl+8 displays Quick Calculator (2006+)
Ctrl+9 shows/hides Command line (2006+)

Ctrl+A selects all thawed objects (2002)
Ctrl+Shift+A toggles group selection (group/single)
Ctrl+B toggles snap
Ctrl+C copies content to Clipboard
Ctrl+Shift+C copies with reference point
Ctrl+D toggles coordinates display (dynamic UCS, till 2009)
Ctrl+E switches isoplanes
Ctrl+F toggles osnaps
Ctrl+G toggles grid display
Ctrl+H toggles Pickstyle (group and hatch selection)
Ctrl+Shift+H toggles Palettes display (2009+)
Ctrl+I toggles coordinate display (2009+)
Ctrl+J repeats the last command (Enter)
Ctrl+K displays the Hyperlink dialog
Ctrl+L toggles Ortho mode
Ctrl+N starts new drawing
Ctrl+O opens a drawing
Ctrl+P print a drawing
Ctrl+Shift+P toggles Quick Properties display (2009+)
Ctrl+Q quits AutoCAD (2004+)
Ctrl+R switches to the next viewport
Ctrl+S saves drawing
Ctrl+Shift+S saves drawing as (2004+)
Ctrl+T toggles the Tablet mode
Ctrl+U switches polar tracing
Ctrl+V pastes the Clipboard contents
Ctrl+Shift+V pastes contents as block
Ctrl+W toggles object tracing
Ctrl+X cuts contents to the Clipboard
Ctrl+Y redoes the undone action
Ctrl+Z undoes the last action
Ctrl+PgDn switches to the next layout (2004+)
Ctrl+PgUp switches to the previous layout (2004+)

Alt+F8 VBA macros
Alt+F11 VBA editor

temporary override keys (2006+):
Shift switches ortho mode
Shift+- switches dynamic UCS mode (2007+)
Shift+) switches object tracing mode (2007+)
Shift+. switches polar mode
Shift+A switches osnaps
Shift+E switches endpoint osnap
Shift+C switches center osnap
Shift+D disables osnaps and tracing
Shift+M switches middle osnap
Shift+Q switches object tracing osnap
Shift+S enables osnap override
Shift+W starts SteeringWheel (A2009+)
Shift+X switches polar tracing

CTRL+mouse cycles selection of overlapping objects (till 2006)
Shift+space cycles selection of overlapping objects in 2D (2007+)
CTRL+space cycles selection of overlapping sub-objects in 3D (2007+)
CTRL+ALT extrudes the selected region into 3D - PRESSPULL (2007+)
CTRL+arrow moves cursor
Arrow up/down - command history

CTRL+SHIFT+letter goes to the property in the Properties window
ALT+down arrow opens a list in the Properties window
ALT+up arrow closes a list in the Properties window

Of course all the Windows shortcut keys remain active as well (Ctrl+Tab, Ctrl+F3, Ctrl+F6 etc.). Other shortcuts may be defined as user keys in the ACCELERATORS section of your AutoCAD menu. Since

Hatch angles in parts in an assembly section view.

2009-01-22T17:36:00.000+07:00

When I create a section view of my 3D model, all parts of the assembly have the same hatch angle - how to change it?

In Mechanical Desktop you can use the AMPATTERNDEF command to set hatch pattern properties.

Download Animation

2009-01-21T16:58:00.003+07:00

Tips and Tricks 3Ds Max

2009-01-19T23:13:00.005+07:00

Tips and Tricks Mechanical Desktop

2009-01-19T22:20:00.003+07:00

Tips and Tricks Inventor

2009-01-19T17:54:00.005+07:00

Tips and Tricks AutoCAD

2009-01-19T17:36:00.016+07:00

Tips and Tricks

2009-01-19T17:34:00.006+07:00

RC Car Animation

2009-01-17T09:29:00.004+07:00

Electric RC Car rendered in Autodesk Inventor 2008 software.
Download animation

Robotic Animation

2009-01-07T09:01:00.005+07:00

This was created using the rendering and animation tools in Autodesk Inventor.
Download animation

Rendering of RC Car

2009-01-04T11:46:00.004+07:00

This was rendered in Autodesk Inventor 11.
Download animation

Radial Engine

2009-01-04T11:00:00.004+07:00

This animation was created in Autodesk Inventor using Inventor Studio.
Download animation

Which applications can publish to 3D DWF format?

2008-12-03T09:29:00.002+07:00

3D version of the Autodesk DWF publishing format (.DWF files) can be directly created from the following Autodesk applications: AutoCAD (2006 and higher, plus Map, MDT, Civil3D and other applications based on it - the _3DDWFPUBLISH command), Architectural Desktop (2005 and higher), Inventor (R9 and higher), Revit (R8 and higher), Autodesk VIZ (2006 and higher) and 3ds max (R8 and higher).

Edit block attributes in multiple layouts.

2008-12-03T09:28:00.002+07:00

How to get/set AutoCAD Mechanical scale in a program or script

2008-12-03T09:15:00.002+07:00

To get or set the modelspace scale variable in AutoCAD Mechanical (as in the AMTITLE or AMCONFIG commands) from your user program (application, routine) or menu script, you can use the following LISP functions:

(gengetdwgsetting "scale")
(gensetdwgsetting "scale" "1:10")

or

(amggetdwgsetting "scale")
(amgsetdwgsetting "scale" "1:3")

How to convert MDT parts to AutoCAD 3D solids.

2008-12-03T09:12:00.002+07:00

You can just use the EXPLODE command or a conversion through ACIS - the AMACISOUT command in Mechanical Desktop and ACISIN in AutoCAD.

How to save a Mechanical Desktop 3D model to the STL format?

2008-12-03T09:10:00.002+07:00

To save (export) an AutoCAD 3D model for 3D printers, to the stereolithography file format STL you can use the STLOUT command. For models created using the mechanical (AMxxxx) commands in Mechanical Desktop you should use the "AM" version of this command - AMSTLOUT.

This enhanced version of STLOUT - AMSTLOUT - supports mechanical solids and assemblies, has more control over the quality of the exported model (facetres, aspect ratio, angular tolerance, surface tolerance, vertex spacing) and the model doesn't need to be in the positive X-Y-Z octant.

Which file formats are supported in Autodesk 3ds max?

2008-11-29T21:42:00.001+07:00

3ds max 9 supports the following formats of graphic files:

Scene import formats:
3DS, AI, DDF, DEM, DWG, DXF, HTR, IAM, IGES, IPT, LP, LS, MTL, OBJ, PRJ, SHP, STL, TRC, VW, WRL, WRZ

Scene export formats:
3DS, AI, ASE, ATR, BLK, DF, DWF, DWG, DXF, HTR, IGES, LAY, LP, M3G, MTL, OBJ, STL, VW, WRL

Texture import formats (raster):
AVI, BMP, CIN, CWS, DDS, EXR, GIF, HDR, ICB, IFL, JPEG, MPEG, MOV, PIC, PNG, PSD, RGB, RLA, RPF, SGI, TGA, TIF, VDA, VST, YUV

Bitmap export formats (raster):
AVI, BMP, CIN, DDS, EPS, EXR, HDR, ICB, JPEG, MOV, PIC, PNG, PS, RGB, RLA, RPF, SGI, TGS, TIF, VDA, VST, VUE

Other formats are supported through external plug-in modules.

I cannot use i-Drop to drag blocks from web to my AutoCAD.

2008-11-29T21:07:00.001+07:00

To mouse-drag web contents directly to a CAD application (AutoCAD, Revit, ADT...) you need to have installed the Autodesk i-Drop component (it is a part of the installation of Autodesk CAD software).

This "iDrop indicator" (eyedropper) can be instaled or updated also manually from the i-Drop page.

If you are using the 64-bit Windows version, you need to install the 64-bit version of the i-Drop component (ActiveX control).

Windows Vista users have to add the web site with i-Drop content (e.g. www.cadforum.cz with the CAD blocks Catalog) to the list of "Trusted sites" (see Tools > Internet options > Security: Servers) in their Internet Explorer.

Then you can catch the requested block with the eye-dropper and drag and drop it to your CAD application.

Compatibility of Autodesk 3ds max and Windows Vista.

2008-11-28T07:48:00.001+07:00

On Windows Vista (both 32-bit and 64-bit) you can install and run the following versions of Autodesk 3ds Max:

Autodesk 3ds Max 2009, Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2009, Autodesk 3ds max 2008, or Autodesk 3ds max 9 Service Pack 2 (SP2)

Maximum addressable memory in the individual Windows versions.

2008-11-28T06:56:00.001+07:00

Applications running in standard 32-bit Windows versions can address only 2GB RAM (3GB in a special "/3GB" mode - see tips; the OS memory limit is 4GB). This may seriously limit 3D CAD software applications processing large volumes of data.

Native 64-bit applications (special 64-bit versions) running in 64-bit Windows versions can access much more memory. Maximum addressable RAM limits are following:
Windows XP x64: 128 GB
Vista Home Basic 64-bit: 8 GB
Vista Home Premium 64-bit: 16 GB
Vista Business/Ultimate/Enterprise 64-bit: 128 GB
For comparison, 32-bit versions have these limits (OS limit; application limits apply - see above):
Windows 3.1x: 256MB (512 MB)
Windows 98/Me: 1 GB (512 MB)
Windows 2000, NT4: 2 GB (4 GB)
Windows XP Starter: 512 MB
Windows XP Home, Professional: 4 GB
Windows Vista Starter: 1 GB
Windows Vista Home, Business, Enterprise, Ultimate 32-bit: 4 GB

Error 0.1.0011 or 11.1.6011 on product activation.

2008-11-28T06:48:00.001+07:00

These errors (and a reactivation requirement) can appear after you activate (authorize) your Autodesk application of the 2006-, 2007-, 2008- or 2009-family on a PC with a SATA (serial ATA) disk controller.

If you encounter this problem on your computer, use the following settings:
For applications of the type/version 2009, 2008, 2007, add (or set) in the Registry, in:

HKLM\SOFTWARE\Autodesk\Licenses\Autodesk Licensing Service\Parameters
the key (value):

MDI_Disable = 1
For applications of the 2006 family, apply this patch (hotfix).

Use the fixes only if you encounter the specified error!

How to generate Piranesi EPix files from AutoCAD and 3ds Max?

2008-11-28T06:40:00.001+07:00

How to uninstall a specific AutoCAD or Inventor Service Pack?

2008-11-26T09:43:00.001+07:00

You can use the standard function "Programs and functions" (Add/Remove programs) in Windows Control panels to uninstall a specific Service Pack of an Autodesk CAD application.

Use the option "Show updates" and select the requested Service Pack to remove. Then click the Uninstall button or use the context menu.

In older Inventor versions you had to uninstall and reinstall the main CAD application.

How to switch off the InfoCenter function in AutoCAD or Map?

2008-11-26T09:42:00.001+07:00

Rounding symbol (approximately equal) in AutoCAD.

2008-11-26T09:40:00.001+07:00

To display a rounding character you can use the following Unicode symbols in AutoCAD:

≅ \U+2245 equal with a swung dash
≐ \U+2250 equal with a dot

You have to select one of the fonts that contain mathematical symbols (e.g. Arial Unicode, Lucida Sans Unicode, etc.).

See also Unicodes.dwg on www.xanadu.cz/download

How to disable the PLOT.LOG file?

2008-11-26T09:34:00.001+07:00

You can suppress writing of the AutoCAD plot log file PLOT.LOG by the following settings:

* In the Options dialog, the "Plot and Publish" tab, the Plot and Publish log file option
* In the Plot Stamp dialog (PLOTSTAMP), the Advanced button, the Log file option (PLOT.LOG)

To switch off the plot logging automatically, add the following command to your AutoCAD startup sequence:

(command "_-PLOTSTAMP" "_LOG" "_NO" "PLOT.LOG" "")

Various types of anonymous blocks in AutoCAD.

2008-11-26T09:29:00.001+07:00

AutoCAD drawing database (DWG) can contain various types of anonymous (unnamed) blocks. The pseudo-names of anonymous blocks always start with an asterisk "*". You normally cannot use AutoCAD block editing commands with anonymous blocks.

Examples of anonymous blocks:

* *U### - general anonymous blocks
* *E### - anonymous blocks from non-uniformly scaled blocks - when exploded (e.g.
solids, regions)
* *D### - anonymous dimensions (dim blocks)
* *X### - anonymous hatches (hatch blocks)
* *A### - anonymous groups
* *T### - anonymous blocks in tables

AutoCAD add-on applications may create also other types of anonymous blocks.

How to convert CIE colors (Lab, Luv, LCH) to RBG?r?

2008-11-26T09:27:00.003+07:00

If you need a conversion of color hues in the color models XYZ, xyY, Lab, LCH(ab), LCH(uv), Luv to RGB (e.g. for AutoCAD, Inventor or Revit), you can use the online calculator on:

www.brucelindbloom.com [url verified 12/2006]

How to transfer layers and blocks from one drawing to another?

2008-11-26T09:27:00.002+07:00

Starting with AutoCAD 2000 you can use the AutoCAD DesignCenter function to do this transfer (copy). But you can also use a simpler method.

Open the target drawing, start the Insert command and pick the (source) DWG drawing containing the layers and blocks you want to transfer. When prompted for an insertion point, press [Esc]. The graphics of the drawing will not be inserted, but the target drawing now contains the layers and blocks from the inserted drawing file.

Cannot exit AutoCAD with the Windows "X"-button.

2008-11-26T09:25:00.001+07:00

If you are not able to close your AutoCAD window and your commandline displays an error, it is probably caused by redefining the internal command QUIT by a custom utility.

Use the dot-version of the command - .QUIT, or redefine the QUIT command back to its original version with REDEFINE.

Replacement for the applications MdiTab, DocBar, CxDocBar etc. in AutoCAD 2009

2008-11-26T09:24:00.001+07:00

Since AutoCAD version 2009 you can easily switch between windows of the opened DWG drawings with the internal visual tool "Quick View". See the book icon in AutoCAD status bar, or the command QVDRAWING.

You can pin-down the drawings thumbnails (see QVDRAWINGPIN) and size them with the Ctrl+mouse scroll combination.

Another option of switching between DWGs are the drawing thumbnails in the function "Opened drawings" under the "scarlet A" in the upper left corner of the AutoCAD window.

So there is virtually no need for "switching" ARX applications like MdiTab, DocBar, OverCAD Tabs, CxDocBar, Drawing Tabs or similar.

AutoCAD with updates (Update/SP, Bonus Pack).

2008-11-26T09:22:00.001+07:00

To identify AutoCADu 2009 with installed updates (Update 1 or 2, Service Pack) and extension packs like the "Subscription Bonus Packs" you can use the dialog "About AutoCAD".

Run the command ABOUT (Help > About AutoCAD), click the "Product information" button and in the field "Product update" (SP) you can see e.g.:

* "AutoCAD 2009 - English" (the original version)
* "AutoCAD 2009 - English Version 2" (Update 1 - SP1 applied)
* "AutoCAD 2009 - English Version 2.1" (Update 1 applied, Bonus Pack 1 installed)
* "AutoCAD 2009 - English Version 3" (Update 2 - SP2 applied)
* "AutoCAD 2009 - English Version 3.1" (Update 2 applied, Bonus Pack 2 installed)

You can also use the _VERNUM system variable - the "Update 1" level will show "C.111.0", the "Update 1" plus Bonus Pack will return _VERNUM=C.112.0, the "Update 2" reports _VERNUM=C.608.0 and with the "Bonus Pack 2" then _VERNUM=C.662.0.

AutoCAD reports MEASUREGEOM as an unknown command.

2008-11-26T09:19:00.001+07:00

The command MEASUREGEOM is included in the "Subscription Bonus Pack 1", not in the basic version of AutoCAD 2009.

Download and install the Bonus Pack from your Subscription Center.

How to disable 3D orbit on Shift+mouse wheel?

2008-11-26T09:17:00.001+07:00

If you want to switch off the 3D rotate view function (3D-orbit) assigned by default to the combination Shift+wheel (rollerwheel), you can change or disable this assignment in the CUI command.

You can find this function in the CUI dialog under Mouse buttons > Shift+click > Button 3: Transparent orbit (assigned command 3DORBITTRANSPARENT).

If you want to use this combination (Shift + dragging with mouse-wheel pressed) for orthogonal panning in 2D, you need to press first the wheel, then the Shift key.

How to export X-Y-Z coordinates of AutoCAD drawing blocks?

2008-11-26T08:53:00.001+07:00

There are several ways to export a list of XY or XYZ coordinates of blocks/symbols or other objects in an AutoCAD drawing.

In all AutoCAD versions you can use the ATTEXT command and prepare an export template containing the X and Y coordinates of the reported blocks (see AutoCAD User Guide).

In a much more user friendly way you can use the EATTEXT (resp. DATAEXTRACTION) command (wizard) to report block information from the current drawing (plus other drawings). Start the wizard and confirm all default values (name your DXE file in Step 1, use only blocks in Step 3, include the position properties in Step 4). In Step 6, choose the export to an external file (XLS, MDB, CSV, TXT).

For a bidirectional link - export to Excel and driving block coordinates from Excel - you can use the Excellink application by XANADU - see www.xanadu.cz/excellink

How to draw hatches always to back (below other objects)?

2008-11-26T08:46:00.001+07:00

If you want to put your new hatches always and automatically "back" in the draw order - i.e. keeping the geometry and texts readable "above" the hatches - preset the HPDRAWORDER variable to 1. It applies to subsequent commands HATCH and -HATCH. The default setting is 3 - "put hatch below the boundary".

The draworder of existing hatchures can be changed with the DRAWORDER command, or automatically (by object type) - with the Xanadu DOBT utility.

How to save a Mechanical Desktop 3D model to the STL format?

2008-11-26T08:43:00.001+07:00

How to make standard 2D drawings from AutoCAD 3D solids?

2008-11-24T07:19:00.001+07:00

You can either plot your DWG file to the DXB format and read it back with the DXBIN command, or use the SOLVIEW and SOLDRAW commands to create projected 2D representations of your 3D models in given views (top, front, left, axonometry, perspective, etc.). To show hidden lines as dashed, set layer properties on the -HID layers.
For more detailed 2D views/representations of 3D models we recommend a full featured 3D CAD application - Autodesk Inventor or Mechanical Desktop.
Since AutoCAD 2007 you can also use the FLATSHOT command.

AutoCAD compatible with Windows Vista?

2008-11-24T07:16:00.001+07:00

The following CAD applications are compatible with the operating system Microsoft Windows Vista: AutoCAD 2009 (Vista logo certified; and the 2009-family), AutoCAD 2008, AutoCAD LT 2008, AutoCAD Architecture 2008, AutoCAD Mechanical 2008, AutoCAD Civil 3D 2008, Revit 2008, Inventor 2008 SP1 and other Autodesk software from the 2008-family.
AutoCADu 2008 (and 2009) compatibility applies for both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista Home Basic, Home Premium, Ultimate, Business and Enterprise.
For AutoCAD 2007 and AutoCAD LT 2007 Autodesk has released Service Pack 2 which makes them compatible with the 32-bit version of Windows Vista.

Network rendering in AutoCAD or Revit?

2008-11-24T07:12:00.001+07:00

Is it possible to use network rendering to render models and scenes in AutoCAD or Revit?
No, splitting large rendering jobs to multiple computers in a LAN network (render jobs, backburner) is available only in Autodesk 3ds Max or 3ds Max Design. 3ds Max can process 3D models from AutoCAD, Revit and Inventor.

Choosing between the new and old Layer Manager dialog.

2008-11-24T07:08:00.001+07:00

AutoCAD 2009 introduced a new modeless (always active) dialog of the Layer Manager. If you want to use rather the old, classic modal version of the Layer dialog for the LAYER command, use the following methods.

* To switch between the old/new layer dialog, use the LAYERDLGMODE variable (1=new)
* To run the old dialog version (regardless of the variable setting), use the
CLASSICLAYER command (you can even display both dialogs at the same time)
* Tu run the new dialog version (even when the variable is off), use the command
LAYERPALETTE

Arithmetic functions in AutoCAD fields.

2008-11-24T07:00:00.001+07:00

In AutoCAD table cells and text fields (texts, block attributes) you can use not only the predefined properties, fields and functions but also the standard mathematic (arithmetic and goniometric) functions with dynamic values.
When defining the arithmetic expressions - see Fields > All > Expression - you can use the following functions:

* +, -, *, /, ^, () = basic arithmetic operations
* sin(angle) = Sinus of an angle
* cos(angle) = Cosinus of an angle
* tang(angle) = Tangens of an angle
* asin(real) = Arcus sinus
* acos(real) = Arcus cosinus
* atan(real) = Arcus tangens
* ln(real) = Natural logarithm
* log(real) = Decimal logarithm
* exp(real) = Natural power
* exp10(real) = Decimal power
* sqr(real) = Square
* sqrt(real) = Square root
* abs(real) = Absolute value
* round(real) = Rounded to the nearest integer
* trunc(real) = Truncated to integer
* r2d(angle) = Angle in radians converted to degrees
* d2r(angle) = Angle in degrees converted to radians
* pi = Pi constant (Ludolf's number)

Example: =atan(pi)

How to construct a circle from three tangents?

2008-11-24T06:56:00.001+07:00

If you want to draw a circle defined by 3 tangential lines, you can use an undocumented AutoCAD command AI_CIRCTAN.
To create a construction of the type "two tangents and a radius" you can use the TTR option in the standard command CIRCLE.

How to update/refresh a modified style in Inventor?

2008-11-14T21:29:00.001+07:00

Styles and standards you edit with the style eeditor (Format > Styles and standards editor, command SE), are automatically updated (refreshed) also in all relevant drawing views.
There is an exception to this rule - the styles which have the setting "Default" in their definition (parameters). Such styles are not associative and can be used only for the initial setting of object styles - they are not connected to the individual instances of drawing objects. If you want to make changes to the appearance of such objects, you have to update them individually. This applies e.g. to hatch pattern definitions (details, sections). You can edit hatches by righ-clicking, choosing Edit and reselecting the same style. [hatchings hatchures]

How to uninstall a specific AutoCAD or Inventor Service Pack?

2008-11-14T21:26:00.001+07:00

You can use the standard function "Programs and functions" (Add/Remove programs) in Windows Control panels to uninstall a specific Service Pack of an Autodesk CAD application.
Use the option "Show updates" and select the requested Service Pack to remove. Then click the Uninstall button or use the context menu.
In older Inventor versions you had to uninstall and reinstall the main CAD application.

Array along a path.

2008-11-14T21:24:00.001+07:00

To create an array of elements/blocks along a given path (e.g. chairs around an oval table) you can use the standard commands DIVIDE / MEASURE with the options Block and Align. This way they work like the command ARRAY applied on a curve.
In some cases you will need to first create an auxiliar offset curve to the original linework with the OFFSET command.
In detail:
Use the "MEASURE" command if you need to array the blocks at a distance from one and other which you enter as part of the process. If you wanted to divide the path into a number of segments, and then array the blocks at the points at which the path divides, then use "DIVIDE". It works in the same way, only you choose the number of segments to split the path into as opposed to the length of each segment.
1.Create the block, the thing you want to array (the BLOCK command)
2.Draw the path, for example, an ellipse.
3.Use the command: MEASURE
1.Select the object which forms the path
2.Type "b" (for block) enter
3.Type the name of the block you want to array enter
4.Type or leave "y" in to align the block against the object enter
5.Type the desired length of segment enter
Done.
(detail by "idiosyn85")

Text mirroring options in dynamic blocks in AutoCAD.

2008-11-14T21:22:00.001+07:00

Text mirroring (readability) in AutoCAD is controlled by the MIRRTEXT variable. But if the text is contained in a block or a dynamic block, it may behave differently when mirrored.

The following illustration presents various options for mirroring of a simple block "ZRCADLO" (for download in the Block catalog) which contains a text (Dtext) and a predefined attribute (AtrDef). The original block is always mirrored with both settings of the MIRRTEXT variable: MIRRTEXT=0 and MIRRTEXT=1; first using a simple mirror with the MIRROR command, then flipping with the "Flip" action of the dynamic block, and finally by mirroring simple entities after exploding of the block reference (_EXPLODE).

How to convert an AutoCAD DWG to CorelDRAW CDR file?

2008-11-14T21:21:00.001+07:00

There is no reliable standalone converter but newer versions of CorelDRAW (10, 11, 12, X4) directly support import of DWG files (in older AutoCAD formats). Due to the complexity of the DWG format this import might be unreliable - so convert your drawing data rather via the exchange formats DXF, WMF, EPS, or PLT (HPGL). All these formats can be exported from AutoCAD and reliably imported into CorelDRAW.
Similarly for backward conversions of .CDR into .DWG files, do not use the DWG export offered in CorelDRAW. It does not create official DWG-format files and such "forged" drawing files may cause problems during further processing. Again, use rather the AutoCAD text format - DXF, or WMF.

Replacement for the applications MdiTab, DocBar, CxDocBar etc. in AutoCAD 2009.

2008-11-14T21:20:00.001+07:00

Since AutoCAD version 2009 you can easily switch between windows of the opened DWG drawings with the internal visual tool "Quick View". See the book icon in AutoCAD status bar, or the command QVDRAWING.
You can pin-down the drawings thumbnails (see QVDRAWINGPIN) and size them with the Ctrl+mouse scroll combination.
Another option of switching between DWGs are the drawing thumbnails in the function "Opened drawings" under the "scarlet A" in the upper left corner of the AutoCAD window.
So there is virtually no need for "switching" ARX applications like MdiTab, DocBar, OverCAD Tabs, CxDocBar, Drawing Tabs or similar.

How to disable 3D orbit on Shift+mouse wheel?

2008-11-14T21:19:00.001+07:00

If you want to switch off the 3D rotate view function (3D-orbit) assigned by default to the combination Shift+wheel (rollerwheel), you can change or disable this assignment in the CUI command.
You can find this function in the CUI dialog under Mouse buttons > Shift+click > Button 3: Transparent orbit (assigned command 3DORBITTRANSPARENT).
If you want to use this combination (Shift + dragging with mouse-wheel pressed) for orthogonal panning in 2D, you need to press first the wheel, then the Shift key.

Work easier with AutoCAD groups.

2008-11-14T21:18:00.001+07:00

AutoCAD LT - unlike the full AutoCAD with its GROUP command - contains simplified versions of commands for manipulating object groups - PKFSTGROUP and QKUNGROUP.
Many users are satisfied with these quick and simple versions of the group commands and the full dialog-based command GROUP slows them down. In addition, for ungrouping you have to specify the name of a group.
So we have prepared a free LISP utility GRP.vlx with the commands GRP and UNGRP. It can be used as a replacement of AutoCAD LT's group commands. You can use CUI to assign the GRP and UNGRP commands to keyboard shortcuts (recommended: Ctrl+Shift+G and Ctrl+Shift+U), or add them to your shortcut menu (context).
Both commands accept also pre-selected objects (grip-selection). They use unnamed groups.
Export/import of user settings in AutoCAD.
If you want to transfer (export and import) settings of the the current user profile in AutoCAD, you can use the functions Export and Import on the Profiles tab in the dialog of the OPTIONS command.
You can export the settings and then import them - e.g. on another computer or from a backup - to/from a file with the .ARG extension.
This file contains the AutoCAD settings hive from the Windows Registry.

How to draw hatches always to back (below other objects)?

2008-11-14T21:16:00.001+07:00

If you want to put your new hatches always and automatically "back" in the draw order - i.e. keeping the geometry and texts readable "above" the hatches - preset the HPDRAWORDER variable to 1. It applies to subsequent commands HATCH and -HATCH. The default setting is 3 - "put hatch below the boundary".
The draworder of existing hatchures can be changed with the DRAWORDER command, or automatically (by object type) - with the Xanadu DOBT utility.

Cannot edit an object: "1 was not in the working set".

2008-11-14T21:14:00.001+07:00

If you see this error message while trying to edit or erase drawing objects, you are probably using a limited working set in the block/reference editor (the REFEDIT command).
First close the reference editor using the REFCLOSE command.

ISOGEN cannot read some ISO exports of piping from Inventor 2009.

2008-11-14T21:11:00.001+07:00

In some cases, the release version of Inventor Professional 2009 can create an invalid PCF output for the ISOGEN application. Apply Service Pack 1 (or higher) for Inventor 2009.
Intuitive overview of relationships and constraints in Inventor assemblies.
With the add-on application iMap for Inventor you can easily view relationships between documents and constraints in an Inventor 2009 assembly. This will help you navigate and understand complicated assemblies - especially those you have not created.
iMap for Inventor is a free application available on Autodesk Labs - iMap.
You can start Inventor with iMap through a separate icon on your desktop - "Autodesk Inventor 2009 with iMap". The iMap functions are then availble in a context menu in the assembly document. You can use the view "Constraint iMap" (relationships and assembly structure) and "Skeletal iMap" (derived part relationships).

How to convert a solid body to a surface (3D faces)?

2008-10-18T10:24:00.002+07:00

If you need to convert a SOLID to its surface representation consisting of 3DFACEs, you can use the conversion to Mass Element in AEC versions of AutoCAD.
AutoCAD Archictecture, AutoCAD MEP and AutoCAD Civil 3D contain the command MassElementConvert (or its quite different version -MassElementConvert), which converts a solid body to a mass element. This mass element can be then exploded to a block reference then to the individual 3D faces. Smoothness of the resulting surface is controlled by the FACETDEV variable.
So, to convert a 3D solid to 3D faces, us the sequence of commands MassElementConvert, EXPLODE, EXPLODE.

Choosing between the new and old Layer Manager dialog.

2008-10-18T10:01:00.001+07:00

AutoCAD 2009 introduced a new modeless (always active) dialog of the Layer Manager. If you want to use rather the old, classic modal version of the Layer dialog for the LAYER command, use the following methods.

* To switch between the old/new layer dialog, use the LAYERDLGMODE variable (1=new)
* To run the old dialog version (regardless of the variable setting), use the CLASSICLAYER
command (you can even display both dialogs at the same time)
* Tu run the new dialog version (even when the variable is off), use the command
LAYERPALETTE

Select all specific texts in a drawing.

2008-10-18T09:54:00.001+07:00

You can use severel methods to select all texts of a specific type (value) in a drawing. Let us have a drawing containing three separate text objects (Dtext/Mtext): Adam,Bravo,Charlie. Our goal is to select the text entities Adam and Bravo.

The simplest way is to use the FILTER command. In the filter type choose Text, value and in the X field enter [AB]* (see wildcard characters in Help). Click the "Add to list" button and use the filter.

Another option is to use a filter in the AutoLISP selection function - (ssget). For the requested type of selection, this function would read:

(ssget "_X" '((0 . "TEXT,MTEXT")(1 . "A*,B*")))

You can enter this LISP expression directly on the "Select objects" prompt.