sheet metal parts, putting visible edges on a layer ...

Discussion in 'SolidWorks' started by Robin Szemeti, Oct 24, 2004.

  1. Hi, :)

    OK, so heres a scripting problem I have ...

    When I make an assembly that includes sheetmetal parts, I have a bunch of
    scripts that I run that check things like bend radii (which SW gets badly
    worng by default[1]), checks the associated drawings contain a 'flat panel'
    view .. check its 1:1 and then save it as a .dxf for the nesting software
    to pick up and send to the laser ... so far, so good.

    Now, the nesting software likes the .dxf to either: contain just the
    outline, or the outline on a seperate layer called 'CUT' ... from within
    solidworks I can do font properties -> uncheck 'use drawing defaults'
    select 'visible edges', set layer to 'CUT' ... no problemo. But I
    sometimes forget ... so I prefer to script it.

    Ive tried recording it as a macro as I perform this sequence and
    essentially, theres nothing there
    .... just how do you do this from the API?? its obviously do-able, but how
    I don't know. ??

    clues appreciated.

    [1] solidowrks by default, and if you read the docs which also
    misunderstand modern bending, assumes the bend
    radius is equal to the tool tip radius ... which is badly wrong. The
    commonest form of bending is 'air bending' where the material never
    touches the bottom of the V, but simply bends between the edges of the V
    and the tool tip ... the v should be between 6 and 10 times the material
    thickness wife, the bend radius will always be (V width)/8 .. or near as
    dammit, the material thickness ... the K factor is typically around 0.4
    ... I throw in this snippet of useless info as a teaser to hope i get a
    reply to my question :)
     
    Robin Szemeti, Oct 24, 2004
    #1
  2. Ha! .. so further searching in the API docs reveals its
    DrawingComponent.Layer = "CUT" ...DOH .. right under my very nose ...

    ta anyway :)
     
    Robin Szemeti, Oct 25, 2004
    #2
Ask a Question

Want to reply to this thread or ask your own question?

You'll need to choose a username for the site, which only take a couple of moments (here). After that, you can post your question and our members will help you out.