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Recently I needed to create some 3D models from PDFs received from a client. These PDFs didn't include all of the dimensional information needed, so I was grateful to have at my disposal the "PDF Import" tool within CAXA (not to be confused with the "Insert PDF Underlay" tool). The "PDF Import" tool converts PDFs into CAD geometry (which is what I needed). Attached is a video demonstrating how this works. The PDF used in the video was originally created in CAXA, and the original "Layers" from the CAXA drawing were saved within the PDF. During "PDF Import" these same layers are again imported back into CAXA. Depending on what print driver (or software) created the PDF, "Layer" information may not be available. Malcolm CAXA - PDF Import.mp4

This will be obvious to some, but it won't be obvious to all, so I thought that I would mention it. After importing geometry from another CAD system, the resulting imported Body is a BREP (or dumb solid). We can use intellishapes to add and remove geometry to this Body, but we can also directly edit the faces of the existing Body. This is called "Direct Face Modelling" (DFM). The "Selection Filter" at the bottom right of the Status Bar is a really useful tool when you want to "Box Select" multiple faces at once for editing. In one of the attached videos the length of imported geometry (hydraulic cylinder) is edited by "Box Selecting" all of the faces at one end, and then "Moving" those faces. IRONCAD then adjusts the Body accordingly. In the second video a similar process is used for "Deleting" selected faces. Note the following regarding "Box Selection" within IRONCAD and CAXA DRAFT. When you create your box from "left to right", then everything that is completely enclosed by that box will be selected. However, if you create your box from "right to left", then everything that is cut by (and inside) the box will be selected. So the direction that you use when "Box Selecting" determines what is selected. Malcolm IRONCAD - Direct Face Modelling - Selection Filter and Moving Faces.mp4 IRONCAD - Direct Face Modelling - Selection Filter and Deleting Faces.mp4

Unlike other CAD software, IRONCAD is unique in that it uses both ACIS and PARASOLID geometric modelling kernels working in collaboration. For most users and applications this isn't important, but this feature provides greater versatility to IRONCAD, that isn't possible using a single kernel. For those interested in understanding the "Kernel Collaboration" within IRONCAD, attached is our own internal document. This includes a description along with practical examples of where manually switching kernels has solved real world modelling problems. Also attached is a video of our most recent example. This involved importing and converting of a SKETCHUP Faceted Model (also attached), followed by displaying with "Real Projection" within CAXA DRAFT. This particular example required using both ACIS and PARASOLID kernels to achieve the desired end result. Other users should feel free to add other examples here also. Malcolm IRONCAD - Dual Kernels - Facet Models (Real Projection).mp4 IRONCAD - Dual Geometric Modelling Kernels - 20230330.pdf AXION MSR 8300-8309 EMERGENCY SHOWER AND EYE WASH.skp

Regarding question 2. Attached is a video demonstrating how to provide "Control" over the position of the Vertical Frame Members. This method uses 2D Sketches, where the position of the Vertical Lines (Paths) can be controlled independently using Sketch Shape Handles (and unlocked dimensions). If the Sketch Dimensions are "Locked", these positions can also be controlled using Parameter expressions, so that they follow any size changes made to the top and bottom Frame Members. Also attached is a video demonstrating what Cary is suggesting, regarding adding vertical 3D Curves for these Vertical Members. This is a good solution if you always want these Vertical Members locked to the referenced geometry of the Top and Bottom Members. Malcolm STRUCTURED FRAME - Positioning Vertical Members with 3D Curves.mp4 STRUCTURED FRAME - Positioning Vertical Members with 2D Sketches.mp4

Within the "Structured Parts" tab of the Ribbon Bar in IRONCAD 2023 is a panel named "Structured Frames". This was previously named "Steel Frame" and is similar to "Weldments" within SOLIDWORKS. Structured Frame "Features" are inserted into Structured Parts, and within these "Features" are "Bodies" (Frame Members). The purpose of this post is to make users aware of the influence Structured Frames have on the Bill of Materials (BOM). Normally, the BOM references the "Part Level Properties" of a Part or the "Assembly Level Properties" of an Assembly. As soon as a "Structured Frame Feature" is inserted into a Structured Part, the BOM stops referencing the "Part Level Properties" of that Parent Part, and instead starts referencing the "Body Level Properties" of the Frame Members. As a result, the Parent Structured Part is no longer treated as a Part (or Assembly), but as an invisible Construction Object or Container (for lack of a better word). In the attached video I have tried to demonstrate this. Page 3 of the attached reference document also covers this. Malcolm Structured Frames - Bodies (Members) Displayed in BOM.mp4 IRONCAD - Structured Frames - 20230312.pdf

Within the Dimension Styles of CAXA DRAFT it's possible to create "Dimension Type Specific Sub Styles". In the attached video I have created a sub style for Diameter and another sub style for Radius. In each of these sub styles I've turned off the "Dimension Line Between Extension Lines". When the parent Dimension Style (Standard 025) is set to current, those sub styles within it will be applied to their specific geometry. This eliminates the need for manually toggling off the Dimension Line afterwards, when dimensioning small circles and arcs. Malcolm CAXA DRAFT - Dimension Styles - Geometry Specific Sub Styles.mp4

When deleting individual blends from a long list of selected edges, it can be difficult to identify the desired edge(s) within the list. The attached video demonstrates that while editing a Blend Feature, when the edge is selected in the Scene, it is then highlighted in the Blend Properties Browser, from which it can then be deleted. Malcolm Blends - Selecting Edges for Removal.mp4

I would like to especially acknowledge the great job that IC's support team and their Channel Partners provide. Nothing is too trivial or beneath them to help when you need it. Even late into their Sunday evening doesn't deter these guys from helping you out when you are stuck with a problem. To my mind, this makes using IronCad even more a pleasure. Also, while I am at it, the willing help from those IC users who take time out of their busy schedule to show us tricks, tips and gladly give advice is also so much appreciated - people like my fellow Countryman, Malcolm Crowe for example. This makes IronCad and its community quite special and I am glad I settled on this product in preference to all the other competitors in this 3D Cad market. All the best for the Festive Season and years beyond. And again, THANK YOU Harley P.S. ( yes I know - I was taught at school never to start a sentence with an 'And' but stuff it - why not )

Hi Kim, IRONCAD (CAXA) 2024 introduced the capability to have multiple "Papers" within a single tab. This was introduced specifically with the "Model" tab in mind (like the example in your image), but it is also applicable to the "Layout" tabs as well. Attached is a video demonstrating the principle of how this works. Regarding what file format to use in CAXA, we normally use CAXA's *.exb file format. We only save as *.dwg when we need to collaborate with other CAD software (like BRICSCAD that we also use). This might not be 100% correct, but I've noticed that when *.dwg files are used (instead of *.exb), then the dimensions applied to Generated Views within CAXA are not associative. That is, if the 3D Model changes and the Generated View updates, then the dimensions in CAXA don't follow as they do for *.exb files. It's more efficient to annotate drawings of IRONCAD Scenes within CAXA (with full access to 3D properties as well), rather than externally referencing into other software for this purpose. However, when you need to incorporate associated Generated Views from CAXA within 2D Models of other CAD software (like AUTOCAD, BRICSCAD, MICROSTATION, etc.) then externally referencing *.dwg files from CAXA is a good option to have. Malcolm CAXA - Multiple Papers within Model Space.mp4

Hi all, Like the past years I decided to make some wallpapers with v2024. Model is a Coil End Welder constructed by the IRONCAD user Lennart Freidlitz at Innopend Teknikpartner AB. Hope you like it! Happy holidays IC_2024_BLACK_4k.png (10,8 mb) IC_2024_CAD_4k.png (3,5 mb) IC_2024_WHITE_4k.png (12,1 mb) English Calender Black (11,3 mb) English Calender White (10,6 mb) English Calender (3,8 mb) Swedish Calender Black (11,0 mb) Swedish Calender White (12,2 mb) Swedish Calender (3,8 mb)

Hi tgjang, I just used that old example because I knew it had many Sectioning Configurations already setup in it; but I don't consider that model to be complex compared to other work we do. For that particular project we needed to create a 3D model of an existing Multi-Storey Building (over 100 years old), so that we could then add various new Structural Elements for Earthquake Strengthening purposes. So, it doesn't include all of the details (such as steel reinforcement and connection details) that would have been needed for constructing the original building. We only needed to add details for what was to be added for strengthening. If you're curious regarding the types of structural drawings produced in CAXA from this 3D model have a look at the attached PDFs. Malcolm W140507c-S11-S19-BC1 Plan Sections.pdf W140507c-S21-S32-BC1 Southern Sections.pdf W140507c-S41-S44-BC1 Western Sections.pdf W140507c-S51-S60-BC1 Strengthening Details and Pile Cap.pdf

CAXA provides some really helpful tools to assist with selecting and creating geometry. The attached video and document provide an overview of these "Capture Tools" along with the associated "Capture Modes". When editing "Capture Tool" options it's important to be aware that these changes are only applied to the currently selected "Capture Mode". Malcolm CAXA - Capture Tools and Modes.mp4 IRONCAD DRAFT - Options - Aptitude (Capture Modes) - 20230905.pdf

This video specifically relates to the "Parallel Capture Tool". This is enabled when using the "Guide Capture Mode". Malcolm CAXA - Parallel Capture Tool within Guide Mode.mp4

Attached is a video demonstrating how to combine 2D geometry (located in a Block) with 3D geometry (located in a Generated View) within "Model Space". And to then display this combined geometry within "Layout Space" at different view scales using "Viewports". This includes how to use the "Align" tool to perfectly position the 3D geometry on top of the 2D geometry, and how to "Pan" (position) the model within the Viewports. This is a good example of when to "Generate Views" within "Model Space" (instead of directly within "Layout Space). Malcolm CAXA - Model Space - Combining 2D and 3D Geometry.mp4

Because we create a lot of Parametric Parts, we try to be consistent in how we construct and manage Parameter Names (regardless of who is creating the model). The naming conventions that we've used over the years have varied, but for those who are interested attached is our current internal document defining how our Parameter Names are to be constructed. Malcolm IRONCAD - Parameters - Name Construction - 20230708.pdf

So to share my experience with IronCad for architecture. The creation process is very nice and fun as we all know. It becomes more tricky when you need the production plans / drawings. So first create your own Styles and Layers! For Line thickness and all hatch. You can save them (IC saves them in the sheet so copy the sheets) and they are ready to use, quite tricky as a start but there is a benefit in the production. PS: Here a nice tutorial would help. So my tricks: 1. Never change the name of the main file, save backups with numbers… So the drawings are always corresponding with the file. (make a backup every day!) 2. in progress the architecture details change all the time …so you must make the same plan many times. Therefore, the ViewManager in IC Mechanical is perfect. With the view Manager you can save any view for each drawing. So you can develop the building and easily update every drawing, no matter which floor or detail. Easily change between the drawings. And then something new for IC: Maurizio of IC Mechanical helps you immediately. If you find a bug or a problem, next day you get an updated software! WOW! Thank you Maurizio! So finally I am relatively happy to make architecture with IC the bugs or ERs in drawing section are known. Hopefully the come. But without the view manager I guess it would be hard. So Mechanical is every doller worth. See the movie! View Manager.wmv

If you need a free STEP Viewer for checking the 3D Models exported from IRONCAD, then the OPEN DESIGN ALLIANCE (ODA) recently released their free "Open STEP Viewer". This works in a very similar way to their "Open IFC Viewer" (for viewing BIM models). Attached is a video that I created for a client demonstrating some of the functionality within this STEP Viewer. Open STEP Viewer Open IFC Viewer Malcolm OpenSTEPViewer - Basic Demonstration.mp4

For users needing "Annotative Blocks" that scale with the "Paper Scale", there are 3 types of “Annotative Blocks” in CAXA DRAFT. 1. Drawing Frames 2. Title Blocks 3. Paratables The name “Paratable” is a bit unfortunate, as this tool doesn’t need to be limited to Tables. It can in fact be used for creating any type of “Annotative Block” (consisting of attributes, line elements, text, etc), that needs to scale with the “Paper Scale”. Attached is our in-house document regarding "Paratables", along with a demonstration video. Malcolm CAXA - Paratables (Annotatibe Blocks).mp4 IRONCAD DRAFT - Paratables (Annotative Blocks) - 20230522.pdf

NOTE! The earlier video I made, had a major mistake. This has now been corrected ( noted May 22 20:24 GMT ) Here is a tip for those of you wanting to know which bend is affected when making closed reliefs. NOTE! The text 'Left' and 'Right' is only shown here to demonstrate which side is affected. Obviously you'd never put these texts on your actual model, In addition, Malcolm has kindly lent me his handy ICS file which shows bend directions and 'look-at faces' to share with you. Sheet metal bend reliefs left or right.mp4 Sheet metal bend reliefs left or right part 2.mp4 Sheet Metal - Bend Corner Reliefs - Look At Face - 20230522.ics

Many users will be familiar with creating "Patterns" using the TriBall or perhaps the "Pattern Feature" tool. But another option is using "Sketch Patterns" within 2D Sketches. This is especially useful when used with the "Structured Frame" tool. Attached are a couple of videos demonstrating what's possible. One example uses Parameter Expressions to calculate an "Equal Distance" between Patterned Objects. Whereas the other example uses Parameter Expressions to calculate an "Equal Gap" between Patterned Objects. Malcolm Structured Frames - Sketch Pattern - Equal DistanceX.mp4 Structured Frames - Sketch Pattern - Equal GapX.mp4

My original Engineering and Operational Management background was within high-speed Manufacturing Operations (24 hours per day, 6 days per week, and speeds up to 1,000 parts per minute). As a result, I have a very good understanding of the ingredients necessary to maximize “Productivity”. When consulting for new manufacturing clients, one of the typical questions that senior management ask is what new Plant and Machinery they need to invest in to “Increase Productivity”. More often than not, the missing ingredient that they need to invest in is “Training (Learning)” of their staff. The same is true regarding CAD productivity. The CAD software that you use is only one of the ingredients. The value of investing in expensive CAD software, add-ons, or upgrades, is greatly reduced if you don’t invest in learning how to use the capabilities they offer. You may as well have invested in far less expensive software better matched to your level of understanding and usage. So, if you've chosen to be in the design business, chosen to invest in the Hardware and the Software required, then “Choose to Invest in Training (Learning)” as well. You'll become a lot more "Productive" as a result. Malcolm

Within the "Structured Parts" tab of the Ribbon Bar in IRONCAD 2023, within the "Structured Frame" panel, a new tool has been added named "Add Custom Structured Frame". This newly added tool enables users to add their own Custom Shapes based on 2D Sketches and Size Data (which can be entered directly or imported from an Excel Spreadsheet). In the attached video I have tried to demonstrate the process involved. Pages 4 - 6 of the attached reference document also covers this. Malcolm Structured Frames - Adding Custom Shapes and Sizing Data.mp4 IRONCAD - Structured Frames - 20230312.pdf

IRONCAD has some great tools for manually modifying the geometry of Shapes, but it also has some very useful tools for modifying geometry using Parameters as well. These tools can be summarized as follows: - Parameter Table: For creating different types of Parameters (Angle, Distance, Scalar and Suppression) - Design Variations: For simple user input (toggling) of Parameter Values into the Parameter Table - Attachment Points: For transferring Parameter Values between Shapes, Parts and Assemblies The attached video demonstrates a little of what is possible with some Parametric Shapes (Structural Steel). Malcolm Parameters and Design Variations and Attachment Points - Shapes.mp4

By default, all Parts and Assemblies within the 3D Scene should have "Include in BOM" selected (within the Properties Browser), as you normally want these to be included in a BOM. However, there are some exceptions, such as Construction Items (like Layout Sketches) and Reference Parts (like existing Parts or a Building etc...). For these items you would deselect "Include in BOM" when you create them. However, if the Referenced Parts have other 2D drawings referencing them (which might be the case with externally linked parts), DO NOT deselect "Include in BOM" for these Items, as doing so will affect those other drawings as well. In the attached video I demonstrate some options for excluding Referenced Items from the BOM in your 2D Drawing. This is specifically regarding CAXA DRAFT, but most of what is demonstrated is applicable to IRONCAD DRAWING (ICD) as well. Option 1: Within the CAXA BOM deselect the "Display" option. Option 2: Within the 3D Scene create a "Configuration" in which the Referenced Parts are "Suppressed". Then set the BOM to reference that specific "Configuration" while the Generated Views reference a different "Configuration". Option 3: Within the 3D Scene, place any "Reference Parts" within a specific "Referenced Parts" Assembly. Then in the Properties Browser of that Assembly select "Treat as Part", and then deselect "Include in BOM". Option 4: This is a variation of Option 3 above. Within the 3D Scene, place any "Reference Parts" within a specific "Referenced Parts" Assembly. Then in the Properties Browser of that Assembly select "Treat as Part", and leave "Include in BOM" selected. Then in the BOM of CAXA deselect "Display" for that one Item. This option allows the "Item Number" tool to be used for labelling these Referenced Parts within the drawing as well, without being listed in the BOM. Malcolm CAXA - BOM - Excluding Referenced Items.mp4

Hi Kim, As you have already said, IRONCAD accesses files from many different locations, including "Program Files", "User AppData" and "User Documents". None of these locations are helpful in a multi-user working environment, where its advantageous to share common configuration and data files. Therefore, wherever possible we direct IRONCAD and CAXA to a Custom Shared Folder Structure located on SharePoint. This includes folders for "copies" of customized AppData files that need to be copied to "Program Files" and "User AppData" of each local computer. I've just completed updating our inhouse documentation regarding these "Files and Paths", and I've attached these here for the benefit of other users. Malcolm IRONCAD - Files and Paths - 20230729.pdf IRONCAD DRAFT - Files and Paths - 20240531.pdf

Within the 3D Scene, users have the ability to create "Local Coordinate Systems" alongside the default "World Coordinate System". Within CAXA DRAFT there is a similar capability, where users can create "User Coordinate Systems" alongside the default "World Coordinate System". Attached is a video demonstrating some examples of how "User Coordinate Systems" can be used, for creating geometry and annotations aligned to other geometry. Malcolm CAXA - User Coordinate Systems (UCS).mp4

Great video Malcolm! Expanding on this using the profile handles is another method. Video below will explain the process. 2023-01-18-13-36-12.mp4

Hi Gigi, I downloaded your ICS file, but I was unable to open it. So, based on what you've described above along with your previous post, I've tried to demonstrate in the attached video what I think you're trying to achieve. To solve these types of problems we typically use "Layout Sketches", so that is what I'm demonstrating here. My apologies if I have completely misunderstood what you're trying to achieve, but perhaps this will still give you some other ideas that you can apply elsewhere. Malcolm Sheet Metal Layout Sketch - 20230117.mp4 Sheet Metal Layout Sketch - 20230117.ics

Hi all, I decided to create a calender wallpaper for 2022. I made a facelift on the turbine engine. Feel free to use it and hope you guys like it. Also attatched a calender for all the swedish users ofc:)

With version 2023 there's a new option to do this more easily. Right click in the top right "empty" area of the UI and choose Reset UI. This will remove those XML files automatically when you close IRONCAD. The XML files are restored when you run and then close IRONCAD again the next time (saving the state of the UI when the last open file is closed). Here is another way to find the path to the XML files, using a "general directory shortcut" that works for anyone exactly as it is (no need of the exact path). Just copy and paste into the address bar of the File Explorer or use the Run command: %appdata%\IronCAD\IRONCAD\25.0\en-us\Customization Other useful directory shortcuts; %localappdata%\IronCAD\IRONCAD\ - where the Cosmetic Thread data table and Sheet Metal Stock and Tool table files are stored but also the XML files that stores the shortcut keys (which you can actually manually manage (restore with a new version), if you know how to read and manage XML files, but please handle these files with care). %public%\Documents\ - where the IC Mech add-on stores tables and other data for the standard components. This could also be a useful place to store IRONCAD-files, if you are more than one user sharing the same computer. It can also be a "general place" to store files like IRONCAD catalogs (*.icc), backup copies of drawing templates (*.icd or *.exb), license documentation (*.pdf) and other useful stuff that doesn't have to be unique to a certain version. Unless you simply want to use your default %userprofile%\Documents\ folder

Cheers to all the IronCAD users world-wide who meet here on the Community. I especially appreciate those of you who help each other solve issues, you make my job even easier. Here's to a prosperous 2023 for everyone! IronKevin

One of the key advantages of IRONCAD is that it offers users the option of working in either "Innovative" or "Structured" part modes. Personally speaking, "Innovative" is my preference for simple 3D models, as they are fast to create and edit. However, "Structured" is my preference for complex 3D models (and 2D layout sketches). These require more thought and take longer to construct; however, these can be easier and faster to edit (changing parameters) than "Innovative" parts and assemblies. Attached are some examples of "Structured" parts and assemblies. 1. Complex Moulded Parts (using multiple steps to construct the necessary features and draft angles) 2. Complex Sheet Metal Parts (using multiple construction elements within the part) 3. Parametric Part Families (family of parts based off common structured parametric part) 4. Parametric Assemblies (multiple associated "bodies" - that can be externally linked also) When you need to use construction elements (such as sketches, 3D curves, surfaces, and reference bodies), to help construct a complex part; then "Structured" mode keeps these construction elements within the part itself (and maintains the associations between those elements). Malcolm Structured Parts - Multi-Bodied Assemblies.mp4

Update #2: Doh! Installing a correct and current Bootcamp driver for the Radeon graphics card does wonders! Performance is now fine, screen content can be moved and rotated quickly, even with large assemblies. That's good news :-) Bernd

2021-09-17-16-43-19.mp4 Here is a method using the Constant Face Blend versus the edge blend. Cary

This may be obvious to everyone, but I just realized you can do this which is very helpful. When I create exploded views that require the endpoint of the 3D line segment to fall in an area that would generally need a node to snap to I now use this method. The video will show what I mean, but you have to click the middle of the triball at the end and then not move the mouse and click again for it to work. Hopefully someone out there finds it helpful. -Spencer 2021-07-23 13-54-50.mp4

If you have a 2D Sketch within an Intellishape that you would like to copy and use elsewhere, simply select the 2D Sketch (within the Intellishape) in the Scene Browser. While holding down the left mouse button drag it into a catalog and release; then from the catalog drag it back into the scene. No special tools or add-ons required. See the attached video. Malcolm IRONCAD - 2D Sketches - Copying from Intellishape.mp4

To place an Envelope Requirement on a diameter or linear dimension with an ISO-tolerance, you can use a certain shortcut key sequence to create the symbol as a postfix of the dimension text. Depending on your localization of Windows (language) there might be two optional ways of doing this in IRONCAD. One of these two (or both) ways should be working; Go to the postfix and type 24BA. Select the text string and click [Alt]+[x] and it will convert the "24BA" text to a circled E. Go to the postfix and hold down the [Alt] key while typing [9] [4] [0] [2] "in sequence" on the numerical key pad and a circled E will be created. See this list for a list of other fonts similar http://www.alanwood.net/unicode/enclosed_alphanumerics.html Also remember to place all special symbols in the Custom Strings library, for easy reuse whenever needed! Go to Menu > Edit > Styles > User Defined Strings Type the character shortcut key command (or whatever text string you'd like) and use the Add > button to add it to the list of custom text strings. For me, I had to change to the font named Segoe UI Symbol first and use the the [Alt] key while typing [9] [4] [0] [2] num pad function, because using the Arial font just showed me the wrong symbol.

The easy way to suppress and unsuppress an assembly, part or feature is to simply right-click on it and select "Suppress" to toggle it on or off. These suppressions are stored with "Configurations", but they aren't stored with "Design Variations". When referencing externally linked assemblies and parts, there are occasions where it is beneficial to store these suppressions within "Design Variations". To do this you need to first create "Suppression Parameters" that can be toggled on and off with values of "1" and "0". Attached are images and a video demonstrating this. In a separate post "Configurations - Linking to External Design Variations" I'll demonstrate occasions where these Suppression Parameters are beneficial. Malcolm Parameters - Suppressing and Unsuppressing.mp4 IRONCAD 2020 - Parameters - Suppressing and Unsuppressing.ics

One of the strengths of DWG Editors (like CAXA, AUTOCAD, BRICSCAD, etc) is the ability to externally reference (XRef) other DWG files, in a similar way that we can externally reference other 3D Scene files within a 3D Scene. This is hugely beneficial when DWG files from multiple users (or engineering disciplines) are combined into a common layout. An example could be the layout of a machine or production line (designed in IRONCAD) that needs to be overlayed with a building layout (and other services). The attached video demonstrates how Generated Views in CAXA can be saved as a DWG file, that can then be externally referenced (XRef) into other DWG files, within another DWG Editor (in this case BRICSCAD). When the 3D Scene changes, the CAXA file needs to be opened so that it can be updated and saved. Then within the other DWG Editor the externally referenced CAXA file needs to be "Reloaded" to update the link. The XRef then needs to be "refreshed" by editing a property of the XRef (such as layer, color, etc.), so that any associated dimensions correctly update. Malcolm CAXA - Referencing Generated Views as XRefs within other DWG Editors.mp4

For those interested in understanding how these "Sketch Patterns" and Parameter Expressions work, I've attached the ICS files, along with images of the Parameters. Malcolm Sketch Pattern - Equal DistanceX.ics Sketch Pattern - Equal GapX.ics Structured Frames - Sketch Pattern - Equal DistanceX.ics Structured Frames - Sketch Pattern - Equal GapX.ics

The attached video demonstrates how "Attachment Points" can be used for automatically sizing "End Plates" to match the geometry of the "Shape" that they are attached to. As the size and taper of the Shape changes, the parameter values are transferred (via the Attachment Points) to the End Plate, so that it can also change accordingly. Offset functionality (both inside and outside) can also be built into the End Plate, as can other features such as holes. Malcolm Parameters and Design Variations and Attachment Points - End Plates.mp4

There are advantages to working with externally linked files (as opposed to having all parts and assemblies within a single file), so understanding and having confidence in how externally linked files work is important. To help with that I've attached a couple of videos demonstrating how to create externally linked files from within a single scene file, and then how to change the name or path of those externally linked files. Malcolm IRONCAD - Externally Linked Files - Changing File Name and Path 1.mp4 IRONCAD - Externally Linked Files - Changing File Name and Path 2.mp4

01 - Coordinate System Structured Parts - Key Differences - 01 - Coordinate System.mp4

CAXA allows the user to create various "BOM Styles" to present the data (Properties) from the 3D Scene in different ways. However, it can be difficult to understand the various settings involved to create these "BOM Styles". Attached is a detailed internal document of ours, that seeks to explain these various settings. We have renamed many of these settings, to better reflect what they are (and do). While BOM Styles can be difficult to understand and initially setup, once done they can be saved with Drawing Templates (just like any other "Style"). Once saved they are available to use at will; being very easy to use, and easy to switch between. I hope this helps other users through the initial setup with more gained and less pain. Malcolm IRONCAD DRAFT - BOM Styles - Settings - 20210831.pdf

This tip is regarding how to combine different assembly and part "levels" within the same Bill of Materials table within CAXA, and the associated "Item Numbers". CAXA only allows the user to select a single "level" (grade) for each source BOM file. However, CAXA allows users to import multiple BOM source files, where each source BOM file can then be set to display a different level. The end result is that you can achieve a single BOM table that displays items from different "levels" within the 3D scene. It isn't possible to import into CAXA the same named source file more than once, so it's necessary to create multiple versions of the same 3D scene with different names. This can be easily done by creating a new scene, and inserting the original scene into it (as an externally linked file) and saving it with a meaningful name (such as ....... BOM Level 2, ..........BOM Level 3, etc). Any changes made to the original file are reflected in the other BOM Level source files. While the BOM Table can display these combined levels, the "Item Numbers" for each generated view cannot. So each generated view needs to display items at a single level. To do this, each view needs to be generated from the correct 3D scene source file. For example, if a generate view is to display "Item Numbers" for "Level 3", then the view needs to be generated from the ...... BOM Level 3 source file. Hopefully the above makes sense in the context of the attached video. Malcolm CAXA BOM - Combining Assembly and Part Levels.mp4

Direct2d3d.mp4

For those interested, attached is a document describing the 3 different modelling modes within IRONCAD (as listed below), and how these relate to the common modelling approaches used for 3D modelling (that is, "Direct Face Modelling" and "Feature Based Modelling"). 1. Innovative Part Modelling - Offers Greater Freedom (best suited for simple single bodied models) 2. Structured Part Modelling - Offers Greater Functionality (best suited for complex multi-bodied models) 3. Sheet Metal Modelling - Sheet Metal Specific It is a common mistake among IRONCAD Users and Resellers that "Innovative Part Modelling" is somehow better than "Structured Part Modelling". That simply isn't the case. There are many parts that simply cannot be modelled using "Innovative Part Modelling" (multi-bodied parts being the obvious example). The strength of IRONCAD is that you can choose the modelling mode that is best suited for what you're trying to model. The link below shows some examples of where "Structured Part Modelling" has been used. The models themselves are not attached though. Malcolm IRONCAD - Modelling Modes - 20220912.pdf

CAXA allows users to select a different BOM Style for each sheet. However, it won't "lock in" that BOM Style selection until a BOM is inserted into that sheet. We have Drawing Templates where we want to have different BOM Styles selected and locked in for different sheets. To do this we insert a "Blank" BOM Item. This creates a BOM with a single empty line. However, we don't want this empty line to be visible, so we deselect the "Display" of this empty line. The end result is that the BOM is preloaded into the sheet, but it isn't visible. When "Insert 3D BOM" is later used, the items will be inserted within this preloaded BOM. This is demonstrated in the attached video. Something else to be aware of, is that CAXA doesn't automatically "merge" items of BOMs inserted within "Model Space" (as in the video). However, if you click on the "Merge" button while within the "Fill In BOM" dialog box, CAXA will automatically merge items when "Insert 3D BOM" is used. Malcolm BOM - Setting and Locking Different BOM Styles for Each Sheet.mp4

CAXA Symbols are special Blocks of Geometry (and Attributes) that are stored within the "Part Library". They are special in that they can be easily drag and dropped into the drawing, can contain multiple views, and can be driven by parameters (similar to AUTOCAD's Dynamic Blocks). The attached videos demonstrate how CAXA Symbols can be used for creating and inserting Parametric Sectioning Symbols (where the length can be adjusted). 1. Defining and Inserting (the process or steps involved) 2. The use of Expressions (for defining geometry locations) and Part Library Manager (for editing existing symbols). This is a very basic example of a Parametric Symbol, with only one driving dimension. Hopefully the process is simple enough to encourage users to try this capability for themselves. Note that the process is similar for more complex symbols with multiple driving dimensions. Malcolm CAXA - Parametric Symbols - Defining and Inserting.mp4 CAXA - Parametric Symbols - Expressions and Manager.mp4

Part of the setup of BOMs and Title Blocks in CAXA, requires editing the "Set Matching Rule" settings within Options/System. This tool matches the "BOM Header Cell Titles" and "Title Block Attributes" to Property Names from the 3D Scene. Note however, that it can also be used for matching to "Attribute Names" within 2D Blocks as well (as in the case of equipment symbols in Electrical Schematics or P&IDs). The attached document shows the "Default" Settings of CAXA, but also the Custom Settings that we use (which are based on our "Standard" BOM Style). Note that this tool is linked to the "Import 3D BOM" and "Update 3D BOM" tools. If you make a new match using these tools, this new match will be automatically added to the existing "Set Matching Rule" settings. Because of this feature, you can even fully populate an empty "Set Matching Rule" by using either of these "Import" and "Update" 3D BOM tools (rather than manually entering within Options). Malcolm IRONCAD DRAFT - Options - System - Set Matching Rule - 20221118.pdf