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MiniCAD Sample

MiniCAD sample demonstrates runtime modification of parametric objects in KernelCAD models.

Running MiniCAD Sample

MiniCAD application loads by default MiniCAD.glm model, which has two top level objects the first object is a 3DS. Te second object is a Surface Of Revolution. The user can load and save any DInsight model.

User Interface

Top Level Objects group of the dialog allows to switch between sections of the model. Name edit box displays name of the current section. Note that for simplicity only top level objects can be made current. ObjArray Sample demonstrates browsing child objects. 

Current joint edit box displays index of the current joint and segment next to it, properties of which are displayed in Joint and Segment groups. For 3DS objects joints are numbered normally in counter clockwise direction when looking from the end of z axis (blue) starting from the joint nearest to positive X axis (red). In Modelling Studio this order can be displayed by using context menu or Views > Cross-section > Strip Order menu command.

Depending on the type of the current object the dialog displays either "Cross Position" group (3DS) or angle range for SOR.

When "Knot" check box in "Cross Position" is off, edit box of cross position group allows changing the current cross position, where all parameter values will be applied.  To enter the new position press Tab key or otherwise switch focus out of the edit box. The relevant data in the dialog will be updated immediately. Turning "Knot" check box on sets cross position to value of the current knot. Current knot index will be visible in Cross Position group in this situation. When "Knot" check box is on, switching focus will change value of the current knot. This allows to change z dimension of the section.

Angle range group for SOR objects is quite straightforward.

Edit boxes of "Joint" group allow to change coordinates of of the current joint for both types of objects.

Segment group displays radius or curvature of the arc which has the current joint as its first end. Segment Group is available only when current segment is an arc.

Move Section group allows to change position and orientation of local frame of the section and hence position of the section with respect to other sections.

The Options dialog allows to increase or reduce Geometrical resolution.

Modifying the model

Modifications in MiniCAD dialog are somewhat similar to using editors of 3D Debugger. Selecting a current joint is analogous to selection of a point in Cross-section editor. Segment group displays properties of the segment which is next to the point (in CCV direction for closed strip).

To enter a new value of properties press "Apply" button. If entered values are valid the model will change in 3D.

Cross position is important for modifications. When cross position coincides with a knot all changes apply to ends of 3d edges. Otherwise if it is a straight line, the whole 3d edge will be translated. ( See Cross Editor ).

To view or modify z axis knot values turn "Knot" check box on in Cross Position group.

To use Move Section group enter values in edit boxes and press Move Button. The section will change it position relatively to global axes. This group functionally is similar to Current Section Page form Form View in DI Modeling Studio

Implementation

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