CA2758363A1 - Machine and method for modifying, extracting and displaying cad drawing block attributes in an intuitive workflow - Google Patents
Machine and method for modifying, extracting and displaying cad drawing block attributes in an intuitive workflow Download PDFInfo
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Abstract
The invention provides a modular system including a file browser embodiment (Xplorer (tm)) for the AutoCAD computer user or other computer user which extracts and displays important non-graphical drawing Attribute information from groups of CAD files in an adaptable file browser view based upon the Blocks and Attributes of those files along with user-defined subsets of those Blocks and Attributes.
The attribute modifier embodiment (Revixit (tm)) provides a computer based interlace system which manipulates these Attribute values singly or in groups within Blocks on or related to single or multiple *.dwg drawing files without opening an AutoCAD and presents, uses and stores the results.
The Attribute extractor embodiment provides a computer based interface system which extracts Attribute values from Blocks within groups of *.dwg drawing files, displays them for processing and places them for storage in an *.xls spreadsheet file or other database.
The Attribute extractor includes support for Dynamic blocks and also extracts the visibility state of the specific block.
The attribute modifier embodiment (Revixit (tm)) provides a computer based interlace system which manipulates these Attribute values singly or in groups within Blocks on or related to single or multiple *.dwg drawing files without opening an AutoCAD and presents, uses and stores the results.
The Attribute extractor embodiment provides a computer based interface system which extracts Attribute values from Blocks within groups of *.dwg drawing files, displays them for processing and places them for storage in an *.xls spreadsheet file or other database.
The Attribute extractor includes support for Dynamic blocks and also extracts the visibility state of the specific block.
Description
, ,
2 TITLE
MACHINE AND METHOD FOR MODIFYING, EXTRACTING AND DISPLAYING CAD
DRAWING BLOCK ATTRIBUTES IN AN INTUITIVE WORKFLOW.
BACKGROUND
Typical computer software causes the recording of a data file in physical memory or on magnetic media which contains individual segments of data.
These segments are read and acted upon by a computer system to display and/or be used in a specific fashion. Specialty computer software programs are adapted to use and/or display certain results specific to the particular use and in so doing create specialty data displays and data files. Often these files bear the same or a similar set of file name extensions so as to be directly related to the specific software by the computer system. This also allows that specific software to identify the individual computer data files upon which that software may be expected to operate successfully, to the exclusion of others.
On a modern computer system even an individual user is able to collect hundreds or thousands of individual data files. These may be sorted into directories (acting as file cabinets), kept in a wide variety of places and conditions or merely left en mass to be sorted, for example, by name, size, date or file type.
For business organizations with a number of individuals working together the number of computer data files can grow exponentially. These files can be spread out over local machines, intranets, wide area networks, backup locations and the internet.
An example of such software is widely used CAD (computer-aided-design) software which can store individual design elements as data types in segments for rapid display and processing. More advanced CAD software allows design elements to be selected and operated on by the computer user as a group, such as by resizing. Corresponding changes are made to the data and stored. Even
MACHINE AND METHOD FOR MODIFYING, EXTRACTING AND DISPLAYING CAD
DRAWING BLOCK ATTRIBUTES IN AN INTUITIVE WORKFLOW.
BACKGROUND
Typical computer software causes the recording of a data file in physical memory or on magnetic media which contains individual segments of data.
These segments are read and acted upon by a computer system to display and/or be used in a specific fashion. Specialty computer software programs are adapted to use and/or display certain results specific to the particular use and in so doing create specialty data displays and data files. Often these files bear the same or a similar set of file name extensions so as to be directly related to the specific software by the computer system. This also allows that specific software to identify the individual computer data files upon which that software may be expected to operate successfully, to the exclusion of others.
On a modern computer system even an individual user is able to collect hundreds or thousands of individual data files. These may be sorted into directories (acting as file cabinets), kept in a wide variety of places and conditions or merely left en mass to be sorted, for example, by name, size, date or file type.
For business organizations with a number of individuals working together the number of computer data files can grow exponentially. These files can be spread out over local machines, intranets, wide area networks, backup locations and the internet.
An example of such software is widely used CAD (computer-aided-design) software which can store individual design elements as data types in segments for rapid display and processing. More advanced CAD software allows design elements to be selected and operated on by the computer user as a group, such as by resizing. Corresponding changes are made to the data and stored. Even
3 40 more advanced CAD software allows the addition of non-graphical information to be added to the display and/or a data file which is to be associated with individual design elements or groups, whether displayed and/or used directly or not. An example would be a part dimension or the title of a drawing or the name of its creator in editable text form and not as a graphic.
45 Any CAD project can generate individual drawings whose number may grow to hundreds or thousands, each one with the potential for sister files, amended files, working files in various places and each in various states of readiness etc.
AutoCAD `^' (trademark of Autodesk, Inc.) is an example of a very advanced CAD
software system the operation of which on a computer system includes the 50 display, generation and storage of a database of information for each drawing being created. Typically that database contains the information necessary for such a computer system to reproduce the drawing. Simple entities are described in simple terms individually.
Software such as AutoCAD tm provides advanced facilities for the storage and 55 use of additional non-graphical information as associated with individual drawings or individual design elements or groups of design elements, sometimes referred to as objects or blocks. Blocks may be created internally to a current drawing or externally, i.e. saved as a separate computer file.
Blocks have been described (for example at http://www.we-r-60 here.com/cad 05/ tutorials/leveL 2/2-5.htm) as individual collections of simple entities (lines, arcs, circles, text, etc.) each of which form a more complex entity that normally represents an object in the real world being drawn, e.g. a door, a chair, a window, a computer. There are many advantages to using blocks, such as:
65 1. Blocks are seen by AutoCAD tm in the computer operation and presented on the display of the computer system as a single combined data entity or composite part consisting of related component parts or simple entities. This means that one may modify (move, copy, rotate) the whole of the collection represented by the Block as a unit by selecting 70 only one object in it.
45 Any CAD project can generate individual drawings whose number may grow to hundreds or thousands, each one with the potential for sister files, amended files, working files in various places and each in various states of readiness etc.
AutoCAD `^' (trademark of Autodesk, Inc.) is an example of a very advanced CAD
software system the operation of which on a computer system includes the 50 display, generation and storage of a database of information for each drawing being created. Typically that database contains the information necessary for such a computer system to reproduce the drawing. Simple entities are described in simple terms individually.
Software such as AutoCAD tm provides advanced facilities for the storage and 55 use of additional non-graphical information as associated with individual drawings or individual design elements or groups of design elements, sometimes referred to as objects or blocks. Blocks may be created internally to a current drawing or externally, i.e. saved as a separate computer file.
Blocks have been described (for example at http://www.we-r-60 here.com/cad 05/ tutorials/leveL 2/2-5.htm) as individual collections of simple entities (lines, arcs, circles, text, etc.) each of which form a more complex entity that normally represents an object in the real world being drawn, e.g. a door, a chair, a window, a computer. There are many advantages to using blocks, such as:
65 1. Blocks are seen by AutoCAD tm in the computer operation and presented on the display of the computer system as a single combined data entity or composite part consisting of related component parts or simple entities. This means that one may modify (move, copy, rotate) the whole of the collection represented by the Block as a unit by selecting 70 only one object in it.
4 2. A library of Blocks may be created consisting of standardized parts that may be required many times in a workday. These blocks can be stored within a drawing or as a separate drawing file, in a separate computer data folder and even on a network so that all drafters and permitted 75 others have access to the library.
3. Using Blocks helps keep the file sizes of individual drawings or groups of drawings down. AutoCAD t"' software operating on a computer system stores block definitions in its databases. When a block is inserted into a single drawing, AutoCAD tm only stores the name of the block, its 80 location (insertion point), scale and rotation in association with that single drawing file.
4. In order to change a composite part, defined as a Block, the block can be redefined. For example, a chair drawing is turned into a Block.
Later, when the size of the chair has to be changed, the Block is 85 redrawn and redefined. With the Block redefined, the Block and all of the drawings using it are updated automatically without opening or taking any actions upon the individual drawings files.
3. Using Blocks helps keep the file sizes of individual drawings or groups of drawings down. AutoCAD t"' software operating on a computer system stores block definitions in its databases. When a block is inserted into a single drawing, AutoCAD tm only stores the name of the block, its 80 location (insertion point), scale and rotation in association with that single drawing file.
4. In order to change a composite part, defined as a Block, the block can be redefined. For example, a chair drawing is turned into a Block.
Later, when the size of the chair has to be changed, the Block is 85 redrawn and redefined. With the Block redefined, the Block and all of the drawings using it are updated automatically without opening or taking any actions upon the individual drawings files.
5. Blocks can contain graphical and/or non-graphical information.
90 Other non-graphical information can be added by the computer system to the database for a drawing by defining Attributes. An Attribute is text information that can be attached to a drawing, a block or a design element to convey more information than just the geometry on its own could convey.
In the case of a Block this Attribute information stays with the Block.
Autocad 95 tm, can also be used by the computer system separately to extract Attribute information to a database or spreadsheet for other uses, such as in a bill of materials. Attributes can also be visible or invisible in a rendering of the drawing on the computer system display or any printout.
For example:
100 1. where separate Blocks are made for different chairs text information can be added to these Blocks, such as manufacturer, cost, weight, or other information.
2. a typical Attribute is a drawing title block.
3. an internet hyperlink which directs the computer system to connect 105 the block to a page on separate website, such as a supplier's online catalog.
In actual daily use, a design or drawing CAD project may have many separate drawings of widely differing complexity and importance. In instances where 110 more than 1 person is involved the number of these drawings increases rapidly and each individual one may include internal or external blocks or attributes saved by the computer together along with sister files, working copies and updates. The increasing numbers and complexity of computer drawings and drawing files vastly increases the potential for mismatches in data usage, 115 whether updated or not and the potential for error.
THE INVENTION
The invention provides a CAD workflow enhancement product, system, process and method designed to work with large Et small organizationsõ that use specific types of computer generated files, such as *.dwg drawing files. The 120 invention is distinct from a document management system and does not tie the user to any computer system or software that is proprietary in nature.
The invention provides a CAD workflow product adapted to *.dwg type computer files organized into computer storage folders, such as are available in Windows , Apple ' or other operating enviornments. The invention computer 125 system runs independently of AutoCAD(trn) or other CAD software and can be installed and used for display, manipulation and storage on a computer where the original software AutoCAD is not installed.
The invention avoids restricting controls of the computer system or the operating enviornment but stores and displays more relevant information to the
90 Other non-graphical information can be added by the computer system to the database for a drawing by defining Attributes. An Attribute is text information that can be attached to a drawing, a block or a design element to convey more information than just the geometry on its own could convey.
In the case of a Block this Attribute information stays with the Block.
Autocad 95 tm, can also be used by the computer system separately to extract Attribute information to a database or spreadsheet for other uses, such as in a bill of materials. Attributes can also be visible or invisible in a rendering of the drawing on the computer system display or any printout.
For example:
100 1. where separate Blocks are made for different chairs text information can be added to these Blocks, such as manufacturer, cost, weight, or other information.
2. a typical Attribute is a drawing title block.
3. an internet hyperlink which directs the computer system to connect 105 the block to a page on separate website, such as a supplier's online catalog.
In actual daily use, a design or drawing CAD project may have many separate drawings of widely differing complexity and importance. In instances where 110 more than 1 person is involved the number of these drawings increases rapidly and each individual one may include internal or external blocks or attributes saved by the computer together along with sister files, working copies and updates. The increasing numbers and complexity of computer drawings and drawing files vastly increases the potential for mismatches in data usage, 115 whether updated or not and the potential for error.
THE INVENTION
The invention provides a CAD workflow enhancement product, system, process and method designed to work with large Et small organizationsõ that use specific types of computer generated files, such as *.dwg drawing files. The 120 invention is distinct from a document management system and does not tie the user to any computer system or software that is proprietary in nature.
The invention provides a CAD workflow product adapted to *.dwg type computer files organized into computer storage folders, such as are available in Windows , Apple ' or other operating enviornments. The invention computer 125 system runs independently of AutoCAD(trn) or other CAD software and can be installed and used for display, manipulation and storage on a computer where the original software AutoCAD is not installed.
The invention avoids restricting controls of the computer system or the operating enviornment but stores and displays more relevant information to the
6 130 user and creates a transparency between themselves and their computer files.
The invention provides time savings and reduction in frustration. The more the computer user knows and has available as relevant information without unnecessary clutter, the more effective that user is.
The invention provides a novel computer system and data management method 135 and process of collection, presentation, display, modification, extraction, use and storage of specific types of non-graphical data maintained alone or in groupings by advanced CAD computer systems The invention comprises of the following modules:
A file browser embodiment (Xplorer (tm)) designed for the AutoCAD computer 140 user or other computer user which causes the extraction and the display of important non-graphical drawing Attribute information from groups of CAD files in an adaptable file browser view based upon the Blocks and Attributes of those files and user defined subsets of those Blocks and Attributes. This changes how the user browses and works with CAD drawings as displayed, used or stored.
145 Only the chosen relevant information is made available to the user of the process, with or without the CAD software or access to all of the original files.
The attribute modifier embodiment (Revixit (tm)) provides a computer interface system that allows the AutoCAD or other user to manipulate these Attribute values singly or in groups within Blocks on or related to single or 150 multiple *.dwg drawing files without having to open a single file in AutoCAD
and present, use and store the results.
An Attribute extractor embodiment whereby the user extracts Attribute values from Blocks within groups of *.dwg drawing files, displays them for processing and places them for storage in an *.xls spreadsheet file or other database.
The 155 Attribute extractor includes support for Dynamic blocks and also extracts the visibility state of the specific block.
With Revixit:
The invention provides time savings and reduction in frustration. The more the computer user knows and has available as relevant information without unnecessary clutter, the more effective that user is.
The invention provides a novel computer system and data management method 135 and process of collection, presentation, display, modification, extraction, use and storage of specific types of non-graphical data maintained alone or in groupings by advanced CAD computer systems The invention comprises of the following modules:
A file browser embodiment (Xplorer (tm)) designed for the AutoCAD computer 140 user or other computer user which causes the extraction and the display of important non-graphical drawing Attribute information from groups of CAD files in an adaptable file browser view based upon the Blocks and Attributes of those files and user defined subsets of those Blocks and Attributes. This changes how the user browses and works with CAD drawings as displayed, used or stored.
145 Only the chosen relevant information is made available to the user of the process, with or without the CAD software or access to all of the original files.
The attribute modifier embodiment (Revixit (tm)) provides a computer interface system that allows the AutoCAD or other user to manipulate these Attribute values singly or in groups within Blocks on or related to single or 150 multiple *.dwg drawing files without having to open a single file in AutoCAD
and present, use and store the results.
An Attribute extractor embodiment whereby the user extracts Attribute values from Blocks within groups of *.dwg drawing files, displays them for processing and places them for storage in an *.xls spreadsheet file or other database.
The 155 Attribute extractor includes support for Dynamic blocks and also extracts the visibility state of the specific block.
With Revixit:
7 As a reference 1 Action by a CAD user equals 1 Attribute value modification.
i.e. changing each of 3 Attributes in each of 10 Blocks over each 10 drawings 160 accomplishes 300 actions performed.
With Manual Revisions
i.e. changing each of 3 Attributes in each of 10 Blocks over each 10 drawings 160 accomplishes 300 actions performed.
With Manual Revisions
8 Attributes x 9 drawings = 785 seconds 8 Attributes x 27 drawings = 2370 seconds Average 10.9 seconds/action 165 With Revixit Revisions in accordance with the preferred embodiment Attributes x 20 drawings = 180 seconds 10 Attributes x 100 drawings = 240 seconds Average 0.35 seconds/action With Xtractor:
170 For reference 1 Action equals 1 Attribute value extraction. i.e. 3 attributes in 10 blocks over 10 drawings is 300 actions performed.
With Manual Extract (using windows copy/paste) 7 Attributes x 20 drawings = 16 min Average 6.8 seconds/action 175 With revisions by Xtractor 7 Attributes x 20 drawings = 50 seconds 7 Attributes x 100 drawings = 60 seconds Average 0.13 seconds/action DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a computer system as implementing the method of the invention.
Figure 2 is a method and data flow chart of the operation of the invention.
Figure 3 is a partial view of the Xplorer embodiment showing the column configuration step.
Figure 4 is a pictorial view of the column configuration window of the Xplorer embodiment shown in Figure 3.
Figure 5 is a pictorial view of the interface window of the Xplorer embodiment shown in Figure 3.
Figure 6 is a pictorial view of the interface window of the Revixit embodiment.
Figure 7 is a pictorial view of the interface window of the Xtractor embodiment.
170 For reference 1 Action equals 1 Attribute value extraction. i.e. 3 attributes in 10 blocks over 10 drawings is 300 actions performed.
With Manual Extract (using windows copy/paste) 7 Attributes x 20 drawings = 16 min Average 6.8 seconds/action 175 With revisions by Xtractor 7 Attributes x 20 drawings = 50 seconds 7 Attributes x 100 drawings = 60 seconds Average 0.13 seconds/action DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a computer system as implementing the method of the invention.
Figure 2 is a method and data flow chart of the operation of the invention.
Figure 3 is a partial view of the Xplorer embodiment showing the column configuration step.
Figure 4 is a pictorial view of the column configuration window of the Xplorer embodiment shown in Figure 3.
Figure 5 is a pictorial view of the interface window of the Xplorer embodiment shown in Figure 3.
Figure 6 is a pictorial view of the interface window of the Revixit embodiment.
Figure 7 is a pictorial view of the interface window of the Xtractor embodiment.
9 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION:
190 Quick Start On a computer system running the Windows TM operating system the computer system, process and method of the invention is loaded as software from a removable storage device, hard disk or system memory.
1. Click "Column Configuration" button as at 1 in Fig 3.
195 2. Click "Load Block" as at 2 in Fig. 4. For example, browse for a sample block that contains a title block.
3. Find the title block and expand by pressing the (+) plus button as at 3 in Fig. 4. Select multiple Attributes Tags by holding Ctrl or Shift and clicking.
4. As at 4 in Fig. 4, use the side arrow keys to copy the selected Attribute 200 Tags to the column list.
5. Select attributes that are to appear in individual columns separately presented in the Xplorer main window as at 5.
6. Arrange order of the columns displayed by selecting an Attribute then pressing the up/down arrows as at 6. Items arranged from top to bottom will 205 appear in columns Left to right in the main Explorer window.
7. Select General Properties as at 7.
8. Arrange order using the up/down arrows as at 8. General Properties columns will appear to the left of the selected Attribute columns.
9. Press OK as at 9 in Fig. 4.
190 Quick Start On a computer system running the Windows TM operating system the computer system, process and method of the invention is loaded as software from a removable storage device, hard disk or system memory.
1. Click "Column Configuration" button as at 1 in Fig 3.
195 2. Click "Load Block" as at 2 in Fig. 4. For example, browse for a sample block that contains a title block.
3. Find the title block and expand by pressing the (+) plus button as at 3 in Fig. 4. Select multiple Attributes Tags by holding Ctrl or Shift and clicking.
4. As at 4 in Fig. 4, use the side arrow keys to copy the selected Attribute 200 Tags to the column list.
5. Select attributes that are to appear in individual columns separately presented in the Xplorer main window as at 5.
6. Arrange order of the columns displayed by selecting an Attribute then pressing the up/down arrows as at 6. Items arranged from top to bottom will 205 appear in columns Left to right in the main Explorer window.
7. Select General Properties as at 7.
8. Arrange order using the up/down arrows as at 8. General Properties columns will appear to the left of the selected Attribute columns.
9. Press OK as at 9 in Fig. 4.
10 210 The Xplorer embodiment.
Figure 4 is a plan view of the Explorer Workspace in Overview Form 1. Address Bar 2. Link Manager 3, Folders 215 4. Drawing Files 5. Bottom Information Bar 6. Progress Bar Address Bar The Address Bar indicates the path of the folder that is active. The displayed 220 path can be copied (using ctrl-C) to other applications for user convenience.
As well a path can be pasted (using ctrl-V) into Xplorer. Xplorer will navigate and activate the specified path when the user presses 'enter' or clicks the 'Open Dir' button. The progress bar displays the progress of the current process. It is recommended that when Xplorer is in the middle of a process that the user 225 waits for the process to finish before continuing.
Link Manager The Link Manager provides an interface for a user to store links to important directories and websites. User can organize links into folders. This area is collapsible/expandable by clicking the arrows at the top right corner. To 230 quickly add links, user can click Et drag a folder from the folder view into link manager.
Buttons Starting from Left to Right in Fig 4.
New Folder - Creates a new folder within the folder that is active.
Add Link - Adds a new link to current active folder that is selected in the 235 folders area.
Remove Link - Removes selected link.
Figure 4 is a plan view of the Explorer Workspace in Overview Form 1. Address Bar 2. Link Manager 3, Folders 215 4. Drawing Files 5. Bottom Information Bar 6. Progress Bar Address Bar The Address Bar indicates the path of the folder that is active. The displayed 220 path can be copied (using ctrl-C) to other applications for user convenience.
As well a path can be pasted (using ctrl-V) into Xplorer. Xplorer will navigate and activate the specified path when the user presses 'enter' or clicks the 'Open Dir' button. The progress bar displays the progress of the current process. It is recommended that when Xplorer is in the middle of a process that the user 225 waits for the process to finish before continuing.
Link Manager The Link Manager provides an interface for a user to store links to important directories and websites. User can organize links into folders. This area is collapsible/expandable by clicking the arrows at the top right corner. To 230 quickly add links, user can click Et drag a folder from the folder view into link manager.
Buttons Starting from Left to Right in Fig 4.
New Folder - Creates a new folder within the folder that is active.
Add Link - Adds a new link to current active folder that is selected in the 235 folders area.
Remove Link - Removes selected link.
11 Add Web Link - Adds a link to a web pages. When clicked user will be prompted for a name and then a web address. Use ctrl-C to copy and address from internet explorer and ctrl-V to paste it into the web link 240 address field.
Edit Link - Allow the user to edit information of a selected link.
Folders Folders displays only folders for quick browsing and manipulation. This area is collapsible/expandable by clicking the arrows at the top right corner.
245 Buttons Starting from Left to Right New Folder - Creates a new folder within the folder that is active.
Delete - deletes active folder.
Refresh - Refreshes folders to include recently updated information.
Right-click Menu:
250 Open Explorer - Opens the folder in a new Windows Explorer window.
This allows user to efficiently manipulate files that aren't .dwg files and gives users manipulation functions that Six Fingers has not yet implemented.
Copy - Copies selected folder to clipboard.
255 Cut- Moves selected folder to clipboard.
Paste - Pastes specified folder from clipboard to current active folder.
Delete - Deletes selected folder.
Properties - Opens windows properties for the selected folder.
Refresh - Refreshes folders to include recently updated information.
260 Rename - Renames selected folder.
Drawing files This displays only AutoCAD *.dwg files in the active folder. To distinguish rows better, every second row background is colored with off-white. The columns =
Edit Link - Allow the user to edit information of a selected link.
Folders Folders displays only folders for quick browsing and manipulation. This area is collapsible/expandable by clicking the arrows at the top right corner.
245 Buttons Starting from Left to Right New Folder - Creates a new folder within the folder that is active.
Delete - deletes active folder.
Refresh - Refreshes folders to include recently updated information.
Right-click Menu:
250 Open Explorer - Opens the folder in a new Windows Explorer window.
This allows user to efficiently manipulate files that aren't .dwg files and gives users manipulation functions that Six Fingers has not yet implemented.
Copy - Copies selected folder to clipboard.
255 Cut- Moves selected folder to clipboard.
Paste - Pastes specified folder from clipboard to current active folder.
Delete - Deletes selected folder.
Properties - Opens windows properties for the selected folder.
Refresh - Refreshes folders to include recently updated information.
260 Rename - Renames selected folder.
Drawing files This displays only AutoCAD *.dwg files in the active folder. To distinguish rows better, every second row background is colored with off-white. The columns =
12 data in this area is completely customizable to give the user specific 265 information about their drawings in order to enable them to work more efficiently. To view all files in the active directory, right-click the active directory in the folder window and select 'Open Explorer'.
Buttons Starting from Left to Right Cut - Moves selected file(s) to clipboard.
270 Copy - Copies selected file(s) to clipboard.
Paste - Pastes selected file(s) from clipboard to current active folder.
Delete - Deletes selected file(s).
Send to Revixit - sends the selected file(s) names to the Revixit module for attribute modification.
275 Send to Xtractor - sends the selected file(s) names to the Xtractor module for attribute extraction.
Configuration (Config) Columns - Initiates the column configuration window where a user can specify the attributes that they want to view.
Attribute Refresh - Initiates Xplorer to refresh all attribute values as 280 opposed to just the files that have been modified. Use this feature if the column attribute values appear to be inaccurate.
Right-click Menu:
Open - Opens the file using the application that is currently specified in the windows shell. This can be modified in Windows Explorer 285 Tools>Folder Options>Hle types.
Open Read-Only - Opens the file as Read-Only using the application that is currently specified in the windows shell. Currently this option is only available when a single file is clicked. Use this function to open a drawing for reference but not disturb the author's write access to the 290 file.
Cut - Moves selected file(s) to clipboard.
i I
Buttons Starting from Left to Right Cut - Moves selected file(s) to clipboard.
270 Copy - Copies selected file(s) to clipboard.
Paste - Pastes selected file(s) from clipboard to current active folder.
Delete - Deletes selected file(s).
Send to Revixit - sends the selected file(s) names to the Revixit module for attribute modification.
275 Send to Xtractor - sends the selected file(s) names to the Xtractor module for attribute extraction.
Configuration (Config) Columns - Initiates the column configuration window where a user can specify the attributes that they want to view.
Attribute Refresh - Initiates Xplorer to refresh all attribute values as 280 opposed to just the files that have been modified. Use this feature if the column attribute values appear to be inaccurate.
Right-click Menu:
Open - Opens the file using the application that is currently specified in the windows shell. This can be modified in Windows Explorer 285 Tools>Folder Options>Hle types.
Open Read-Only - Opens the file as Read-Only using the application that is currently specified in the windows shell. Currently this option is only available when a single file is clicked. Use this function to open a drawing for reference but not disturb the author's write access to the 290 file.
Cut - Moves selected file(s) to clipboard.
i I
13 Copy - Copies selected file(s) to clipboard.
Paste - Pastes specified file(s) from clipboard to current folder that is being browsed.
295 Create Shortcut to Desktop - Creates and icon on the Desktop that is a direct link to open the file for the selected file.
Delete - Deletes selected file(s).
Rename - Renames selected file.
Properties - Opens windows properties for the selected file. A modified 300 property window is displayed when more than one file is selected. This modified window shows quantity of files, cumulative size of all files selected, and gives the user the ability to change Read-only, Hidden and Archive file properties.
Send to Revixit - sends the selected file(s) names to the Revixit module 305 for attribute modification.
Send to Xtractor - sends the selected file(s) names to the Xtractor module for attribute extraction.
Bottom Information Bar This area displays the data for the currently selected file in the drawings area.
310 Information Description (from left to right) Progress Status - Displays % complete of the current process. 'Load Complete' will be displayed when the current process is complete.
Selection Description - Displays total objects in directory as well as the total objects that are selected.
315 Last Modified by - Displays the last saved date and time for the selected file.
Last Save By - Displays the login name of the person who last saved the selected file.
Size - Displays the size of the selected file.
Paste - Pastes specified file(s) from clipboard to current folder that is being browsed.
295 Create Shortcut to Desktop - Creates and icon on the Desktop that is a direct link to open the file for the selected file.
Delete - Deletes selected file(s).
Rename - Renames selected file.
Properties - Opens windows properties for the selected file. A modified 300 property window is displayed when more than one file is selected. This modified window shows quantity of files, cumulative size of all files selected, and gives the user the ability to change Read-only, Hidden and Archive file properties.
Send to Revixit - sends the selected file(s) names to the Revixit module 305 for attribute modification.
Send to Xtractor - sends the selected file(s) names to the Xtractor module for attribute extraction.
Bottom Information Bar This area displays the data for the currently selected file in the drawings area.
310 Information Description (from left to right) Progress Status - Displays % complete of the current process. 'Load Complete' will be displayed when the current process is complete.
Selection Description - Displays total objects in directory as well as the total objects that are selected.
315 Last Modified by - Displays the last saved date and time for the selected file.
Last Save By - Displays the login name of the person who last saved the selected file.
Size - Displays the size of the selected file.
14 320 DWG Version - Displays the AutoCAD version of the selected file.
Read-Only - Displays whether the selected file is read-only or not.
Column Configuration Column Configuration Overview - The heart of Xplorer and tits purpose. This allows the user to display important drawing information in a file browser view 325 and changes how the user browses and works with drawings. Note that every time a directory loads for the first time, the attribute values are cached in a database file so that the directory loads very fast the next time the directory is loaded. If a file is modified it is compared to the database and the attribute values are refreshed on an as needed basis for each specific drawing that has 330 been modified since the last refresh. This ensures the information displays in a timely manner.
It can be also noted that when the columns are re-configured, the database is cleared and the cached data is lost so determining the needed attributes up front is a good thing to spend some time thinking about. Once the columns are 335 configured and attribute data is being displayed the user will notice a wealth of information about a specific drawing is now available to them. This makes it easy for a user to open the drawing that they want the first time as well as get data that they want without even opening the drawing (such as revisions and dates).
340 It makes it easy to compare drawings for errors as drawing that should have the same information in a particular tag stick out like sore thumbs.
It should be noted that a user can sort ascending and descending any column that is displayed. This effectively can change a workflow to work with drawings in a more efficient manner. For example, the user can open all 345 drawings that are a specific rev, or of a specific description. If the block doesn't exist in a specific drawing, Xplorer will display a null value in the space. Note that only Xplorer only extracts information from visible blocks within the .dwg file as well as only extracts the first instance it finds. In this embodiment Xplorer will not for instance display the title block data over
Read-Only - Displays whether the selected file is read-only or not.
Column Configuration Column Configuration Overview - The heart of Xplorer and tits purpose. This allows the user to display important drawing information in a file browser view 325 and changes how the user browses and works with drawings. Note that every time a directory loads for the first time, the attribute values are cached in a database file so that the directory loads very fast the next time the directory is loaded. If a file is modified it is compared to the database and the attribute values are refreshed on an as needed basis for each specific drawing that has 330 been modified since the last refresh. This ensures the information displays in a timely manner.
It can be also noted that when the columns are re-configured, the database is cleared and the cached data is lost so determining the needed attributes up front is a good thing to spend some time thinking about. Once the columns are 335 configured and attribute data is being displayed the user will notice a wealth of information about a specific drawing is now available to them. This makes it easy for a user to open the drawing that they want the first time as well as get data that they want without even opening the drawing (such as revisions and dates).
340 It makes it easy to compare drawings for errors as drawing that should have the same information in a particular tag stick out like sore thumbs.
It should be noted that a user can sort ascending and descending any column that is displayed. This effectively can change a workflow to work with drawings in a more efficient manner. For example, the user can open all 345 drawings that are a specific rev, or of a specific description. If the block doesn't exist in a specific drawing, Xplorer will display a null value in the space. Note that only Xplorer only extracts information from visible blocks within the .dwg file as well as only extracts the first instance it finds. In this embodiment Xplorer will not for instance display the title block data over
15 350 drawings that contain multiple title blocks over multiple layouts. Revixit and Xtractor will however revise and extract multiple blocks over multiple layouts.
Column Configuration Window function:
It all starts with being able to load a sample drawing. The user can select a block and specify specific attribute tags they want to appear. Note that 355 multiple sample drawings can be loaded to come up with an array of different block attributes for information to appear in the browser view. Attribute configuration can be saved to file and loaded for user convenience. The user can also modify column order by using the up and down arrows after selecting a specific block. In the lower left corner, a list of general file attributes are 360 listed for the user to display as well they can modify the order. These general attributes are always displayed to the left of the columns that display attribute information. The amount of columns the user specifies are only limited by monitor size as it is not useful displaying columns that you always have to scroll over to see.
365 Revixit Fig.
Workspace Overview 1. Blocks a Attribute Selection Window 2. Attributes to Revise Window 3. Actions Window 370 4. File Selection Window 5. Messages Log Window 6. Revixit Module Selection Tab 7. Button to Accept selected attributes in the Attributes to Revise Window 8. Specified Parameters relevant to action 375 9. Specified Action (Selectable via right-click menu) 10. Attribute to be Revised 11. Block that specific attribute tag exists window
Column Configuration Window function:
It all starts with being able to load a sample drawing. The user can select a block and specify specific attribute tags they want to appear. Note that 355 multiple sample drawings can be loaded to come up with an array of different block attributes for information to appear in the browser view. Attribute configuration can be saved to file and loaded for user convenience. The user can also modify column order by using the up and down arrows after selecting a specific block. In the lower left corner, a list of general file attributes are 360 listed for the user to display as well they can modify the order. These general attributes are always displayed to the left of the columns that display attribute information. The amount of columns the user specifies are only limited by monitor size as it is not useful displaying columns that you always have to scroll over to see.
365 Revixit Fig.
Workspace Overview 1. Blocks a Attribute Selection Window 2. Attributes to Revise Window 3. Actions Window 370 4. File Selection Window 5. Messages Log Window 6. Revixit Module Selection Tab 7. Button to Accept selected attributes in the Attributes to Revise Window 8. Specified Parameters relevant to action 375 9. Specified Action (Selectable via right-click menu) 10. Attribute to be Revised 11. Block that specific attribute tag exists window
16 12. Button to Save action list configuration to a file 13. Button to Load action list from a saved file 380 14. Check boxes indicate files to be revised 15. Open a sample drawing button 16. The Blue Question Mark
17. Select All button check marks all items in the Attributes to Revise Window 385 18. Unselect AR button removes all check marks 19. Button to Save revise list configuration to a file 20. Button to Load revise list from a saved file 21. Buttons to arrange sequence of actions 22. Removes the selected action 390 23. Copies the selected action 24. Progress bar for action processing 25. Execute button to process revision 26. Button to preview action results 27. Browse to add files to selection 395 28. Action right-click menu The Revixit workspace consist of a workflow where a user can load a sample drawing, browse the blocks and attributes and load the attributes they wish to change in the 'Attributes to Revise' window. The user accepts the attributes to revise and they are loaded into the action list. User can manipulate and revise 400 attribute data. The Select Drawings area is where the user specifies which drawings there actions list applies to. For added convenience there is a preview button which makes a copy of the first selected drawing and applies the actions to this copy and initiate AutoCAD to display the changes to the user. The user is encouraged to use this feature every time before they 405 execute because the execute function cannot be aborted or undone. A
Messages Log displays any messages relevant to the user for the current process.
Loading a Sample Drawing The purpose of this function is to load a drawing that has the block(s) that the 410 user wants to modify. When using the 'Send to Revixit feature in Xptorer, the first drawing of the selection set is auto loaded as the sample drawing. When this is loaded, all of the inserted block definitions within the sample drawing are loaded. Note that if a block definition is in a drawing but is not an actual visible block, it is not loaded in blocks window. It is the concept that a user 415 will only need to revise visible blocks rather than blocks that are defined but are not used.
Selecting Blocks and Attributes This area displayed all of the visible block definitions in the drawing in a tree view. The user can expand a certain block and select specific attributes in 420 which they want to modify the values for. Note that you can only build a revision list from all blocks located in a specific drawing. For this reason it may be advantageous to create a sample drawing with all blocks. You can save the attribute configuration file to be loaded any time using the button on right hand side of Revixit.
425 Actions You can save the action configuration file to be loaded any time using the buttons on Left hand side of Action List. You can change the execution order of the actions using the arrows on the right hand side. You can remove items from the list if you decide you don't need to perform a specific action. You can 430 copy an attribute action if you decide that two actions are required to achieve a specific result to a single attribute tag.
Edit - Changes the value of the specified attribute tag. Note that if you enter a null value, that the tag value will essentially be erased.
Find/ Replace - Finds and Replaces a specific string within an attribute 435 tag. User can specify case sensitive or not.
Messages Log displays any messages relevant to the user for the current process.
Loading a Sample Drawing The purpose of this function is to load a drawing that has the block(s) that the 410 user wants to modify. When using the 'Send to Revixit feature in Xptorer, the first drawing of the selection set is auto loaded as the sample drawing. When this is loaded, all of the inserted block definitions within the sample drawing are loaded. Note that if a block definition is in a drawing but is not an actual visible block, it is not loaded in blocks window. It is the concept that a user 415 will only need to revise visible blocks rather than blocks that are defined but are not used.
Selecting Blocks and Attributes This area displayed all of the visible block definitions in the drawing in a tree view. The user can expand a certain block and select specific attributes in 420 which they want to modify the values for. Note that you can only build a revision list from all blocks located in a specific drawing. For this reason it may be advantageous to create a sample drawing with all blocks. You can save the attribute configuration file to be loaded any time using the button on right hand side of Revixit.
425 Actions You can save the action configuration file to be loaded any time using the buttons on Left hand side of Action List. You can change the execution order of the actions using the arrows on the right hand side. You can remove items from the list if you decide you don't need to perform a specific action. You can 430 copy an attribute action if you decide that two actions are required to achieve a specific result to a single attribute tag.
Edit - Changes the value of the specified attribute tag. Note that if you enter a null value, that the tag value will essentially be erased.
Find/ Replace - Finds and Replaces a specific string within an attribute 435 tag. User can specify case sensitive or not.
18 Copy - Copies an attribute value located in a specific tag to a different attribute tag. Note that the source tag value will be preserved after this action is complete.
Move - Moves an attribute value located in a specific tag to a different 440 attribute tag. Note that the source tag value will be blank after this action is complete.
Switch - Switches tag value between specified attribute tags.
Concatenate - Joins together the tag values of two attribute tags. A
space can optionally be inserted between the two values.
445 Prefix - Adds a user defined value to the beginning of the specified attribute tag. Note that value is added exactly how the user defines the string including special characters and spaces.
Suffix - Adds a user defined value to the end of the specified attribute tag. Note that value is added exactly how the user defines the string 450 including special characters and spaces.
File Selection The user can select drawings in which the actions will be applied to. The Selected drawings list can be manipulated using the right-click menu to those drawings that are selected. A preview can be done to show the user what the 455 real world outcome will be. The first file will be copied to a temp directory, the actions will be performed and the file will be opened in AutoCAD so the user can see the outcome of the actions without consequences to the actual drawing files.
Users are encouraged to always do a preview no matter how simple the change 460 as the actual execution cannot be undone. Once the action set is executed, Revixit will make the changes to the files unchecking them as each file is successfully modified. If a file cannot be modified for any reason the drawing remains checked. User can then go into Xplorer and determine if the file is read-only or if another CAD user is working in the drawing. Once the user has 465 rectified the cause of why these files weren't modified, the user can simply go
Move - Moves an attribute value located in a specific tag to a different 440 attribute tag. Note that the source tag value will be blank after this action is complete.
Switch - Switches tag value between specified attribute tags.
Concatenate - Joins together the tag values of two attribute tags. A
space can optionally be inserted between the two values.
445 Prefix - Adds a user defined value to the beginning of the specified attribute tag. Note that value is added exactly how the user defines the string including special characters and spaces.
Suffix - Adds a user defined value to the end of the specified attribute tag. Note that value is added exactly how the user defines the string 450 including special characters and spaces.
File Selection The user can select drawings in which the actions will be applied to. The Selected drawings list can be manipulated using the right-click menu to those drawings that are selected. A preview can be done to show the user what the 455 real world outcome will be. The first file will be copied to a temp directory, the actions will be performed and the file will be opened in AutoCAD so the user can see the outcome of the actions without consequences to the actual drawing files.
Users are encouraged to always do a preview no matter how simple the change 460 as the actual execution cannot be undone. Once the action set is executed, Revixit will make the changes to the files unchecking them as each file is successfully modified. If a file cannot be modified for any reason the drawing remains checked. User can then go into Xplorer and determine if the file is read-only or if another CAD user is working in the drawing. Once the user has 465 rectified the cause of why these files weren't modified, the user can simply go
19 back to Revixit and hit the execute button without the need to weed through the file list and determine which files weren't modified.
Right-Click Menu includes:
Remove from List - Removes selected drawings from the list.
470 Clear - Removes All drawings from the list.
Check - Checks the box for the selected drawings.
Uncheck - Unchecks the box for the selected drawings.
Check All - Checks the box for all drawings in the list.
Uncheck All - Unchecks the box for all drawings in the list.
475 Xtractor Workspace Overview 1. Blocks Et Attribute Selection Window 2. Attributes to Extract Window 3. File Selection Window 480 4. Messages Log Window 5. Sample Drawing address bar 6. Open a sample drawing button 7. The Blue Question Mark 8. Select All button check marks all items in the Attributes to Extract Window 485 9. Unselect All button removes all check marks 10. Button to Save revise list config to a file 11. Button to Load revise list from a saved file 12. File Selection address bar 490 13. Check boxes indicate files to be extracts 14. Progress bar for action processing
Right-Click Menu includes:
Remove from List - Removes selected drawings from the list.
470 Clear - Removes All drawings from the list.
Check - Checks the box for the selected drawings.
Uncheck - Unchecks the box for the selected drawings.
Check All - Checks the box for all drawings in the list.
Uncheck All - Unchecks the box for all drawings in the list.
475 Xtractor Workspace Overview 1. Blocks Et Attribute Selection Window 2. Attributes to Extract Window 3. File Selection Window 480 4. Messages Log Window 5. Sample Drawing address bar 6. Open a sample drawing button 7. The Blue Question Mark 8. Select All button check marks all items in the Attributes to Extract Window 485 9. Unselect All button removes all check marks 10. Button to Save revise list config to a file 11. Button to Load revise list from a saved file 12. File Selection address bar 490 13. Check boxes indicate files to be extracts 14. Progress bar for action processing
20 15. Save path address bar 16. Execute button to process extraction 17. Button to browse location to save file 495 18. Button to add file(s) to selected 19. Button to add all files in a directory to selected drawings list (can include sub-directory) drawings list The Xtractor workspace consists of a workflow where a user can load a sample drawing, browse the blocks and attributes and load the attributes they wish to 500 extract in the 'Attributes to Extract' window. The Select Drawings area is where the user specifies which drawings to extract the specified attribute tags from. The user specifies a file name and location and upon pressing the execute button, an .xls file is created with all the attribute value data. A
Messages Log displays any messages relevant to the user for the current 505 process.
Loading a Sample Drawing The purpose of this function is to load a drawing that has the block(s) that the user wants to extract. When using the 'Send to Xtractor feature in Xplorer, the first drawing of the selection set is auto loaded as the sample drawing. When 510 this is loaded, all of the visible block definitions within the sample drawing are loaded. Note that if a block definition is in a drawing but is not an actual visible block, it is not loaded in blocks window. It is the concept that a user will only need to extract tag values from visible blocks rather than blocks that are defined but are not used.
515 Selecting Blocks and Attributes This area displayed all of the visible block definitions in the drawing in a tree view. The user can expand a certain block and select specific attributes in which they want to extract the values for. Note that you can only build an extraction list from all blocks visible in a specific drawing. For this reason it 520 may be advantageous to create a sample drawing with all blocks. You can save the attribute configuration file to be loaded any time using the button on right
Messages Log displays any messages relevant to the user for the current 505 process.
Loading a Sample Drawing The purpose of this function is to load a drawing that has the block(s) that the user wants to extract. When using the 'Send to Xtractor feature in Xplorer, the first drawing of the selection set is auto loaded as the sample drawing. When 510 this is loaded, all of the visible block definitions within the sample drawing are loaded. Note that if a block definition is in a drawing but is not an actual visible block, it is not loaded in blocks window. It is the concept that a user will only need to extract tag values from visible blocks rather than blocks that are defined but are not used.
515 Selecting Blocks and Attributes This area displayed all of the visible block definitions in the drawing in a tree view. The user can expand a certain block and select specific attributes in which they want to extract the values for. Note that you can only build an extraction list from all blocks visible in a specific drawing. For this reason it 520 may be advantageous to create a sample drawing with all blocks. You can save the attribute configuration file to be loaded any time using the button on right
21 hand side of Xtractor. There are also Select all and Unselect All buttons for added convenience when dealing with a large amount of blocks.
File Selection 525 The user can select drawings in which the actions will be applied to. The Select drawings list can be manipulated using the right-click menu to those drawings that are selected. For added convenience the user can add files by directory as well as the option to include all sub-directories. Once the extraction is executed, Xtractor wilt extract the attribute values for the 530 specified attribute tags from the selected drawings. Note that drawings that are in-use at the time of extraction will extract as the file was last saved.
Right-Click Menu includes:
Remove from List - Removes selected drawings from the list.
Clear - Removes AU drawings from the list.
535 Check - Checks the box for the selected drawings.
Uncheck - Unchecks the box for the selected drawings.
Check AR - Checks the box for all drawings in the list.
Uncheck All - Unchecks the box for all drawings in the list.
Output File 540 The file is output in a Microsoft Excel (tm) *.xls file format. The user will specify the file name and well as the location. In addition to the Attribute tags selected, the output file will contain columns for File Name, Path, Block Name Et Dwg Version.
545 The present invention has been described with respect to the use of the system, process and method with personal computers. It is also possible to use the present invention with other types of display systems including projectors and white-board applications. The system also includes permanent and/or removable storage on which the process and data files of the present
File Selection 525 The user can select drawings in which the actions will be applied to. The Select drawings list can be manipulated using the right-click menu to those drawings that are selected. For added convenience the user can add files by directory as well as the option to include all sub-directories. Once the extraction is executed, Xtractor wilt extract the attribute values for the 530 specified attribute tags from the selected drawings. Note that drawings that are in-use at the time of extraction will extract as the file was last saved.
Right-Click Menu includes:
Remove from List - Removes selected drawings from the list.
Clear - Removes AU drawings from the list.
535 Check - Checks the box for the selected drawings.
Uncheck - Unchecks the box for the selected drawings.
Check AR - Checks the box for all drawings in the list.
Uncheck All - Unchecks the box for all drawings in the list.
Output File 540 The file is output in a Microsoft Excel (tm) *.xls file format. The user will specify the file name and well as the location. In addition to the Attribute tags selected, the output file will contain columns for File Name, Path, Block Name Et Dwg Version.
545 The present invention has been described with respect to the use of the system, process and method with personal computers. It is also possible to use the present invention with other types of display systems including projectors and white-board applications. The system also includes permanent and/or removable storage on which the process and data files of the present
22 550 invention can be stored and distributed manually, by intranet or on the internet.
The many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the detailed specification and, thus, it is intended that ail such features and advantages of the invention that fall within the true spirit and scope of the 555 invention be claimed. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact system, method and operation illustrated and described, and accordingly all suitable equivalents fall within the scope of the invention.
The many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the detailed specification and, thus, it is intended that ail such features and advantages of the invention that fall within the true spirit and scope of the 555 invention be claimed. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact system, method and operation illustrated and described, and accordingly all suitable equivalents fall within the scope of the invention.
Claims (6)
1. A computer implemented method of data collection, presentation, display, modification, extraction and use of non-graphical data in CAD
computer systems comprising the steps of:
(a) loading at least one subset of said non-graphical attribute information from groups of CAD files based upon the Blocks and Attributes of said files, (b) displaying the said loaded information by means adapted as a file browser to select, extract, and the display selected sets or subsets of said information wherein only the selected information is made available to the user, with or without the CAD software or access to all of the original files.
computer systems comprising the steps of:
(a) loading at least one subset of said non-graphical attribute information from groups of CAD files based upon the Blocks and Attributes of said files, (b) displaying the said loaded information by means adapted as a file browser to select, extract, and the display selected sets or subsets of said information wherein only the selected information is made available to the user, with or without the CAD software or access to all of the original files.
2. A computer implemented method as claimed in claim 1. further comprising an attribute modifier adapted to manipulate said attribute information singly or in groups within Blocks on or related to single or multiple CAD drawing files without use of the CAD software.
3. A computer implemented method as claimed in claim 2 wherein said modifier includes means to present, use and store said modified information.
4. A computer implemented method as claimed in claims 2 or 3 further comprising an attribute extractor adapted to extract said attribute information from specified Blocks, to display them for processing and to store subsets of said attributes in a database.
5. A computer implemented method as claimed in claim 4 wherein said Attribute extractor includes dynamic blocks and means to extract the visibility state of any specific block.
6. A computer processor configured to perform the steps set out in respect of claims 1 through 5.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2758363A CA2758363A1 (en) | 2011-11-14 | 2011-11-14 | Machine and method for modifying, extracting and displaying cad drawing block attributes in an intuitive workflow |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2758363A CA2758363A1 (en) | 2011-11-14 | 2011-11-14 | Machine and method for modifying, extracting and displaying cad drawing block attributes in an intuitive workflow |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2758363A1 true CA2758363A1 (en) | 2013-05-14 |
Family
ID=48481518
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2758363A Abandoned CA2758363A1 (en) | 2011-11-14 | 2011-11-14 | Machine and method for modifying, extracting and displaying cad drawing block attributes in an intuitive workflow |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2758363A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN107870998A (en) * | 2017-11-06 | 2018-04-03 | 中煤航测遥感集团有限公司 | Figure and the method and device of attribute linkage |
| US20210240882A1 (en) * | 2018-09-17 | 2021-08-05 | Bricsys Nv | Cad model compression via automated block generation |
| CN113553635A (en) * | 2021-06-28 | 2021-10-26 | 通号城市轨道交通技术有限公司 | Method and device for configuring graph base primitive, electronic equipment and storage medium |
| CN114491754A (en) * | 2022-01-24 | 2022-05-13 | 同创金泰建筑技术（北京）有限公司 | Method for rapidly merging same image blocks based on drawing software |
| CN116595602A (en) * | 2023-07-17 | 2023-08-15 | 中国核工业二三建设有限公司 | CAD block cleaning method and device, electronic equipment and storage medium |
-
2011
- 2011-11-14 CA CA2758363A patent/CA2758363A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN107870998A (en) * | 2017-11-06 | 2018-04-03 | 中煤航测遥感集团有限公司 | Figure and the method and device of attribute linkage |
| US20210240882A1 (en) * | 2018-09-17 | 2021-08-05 | Bricsys Nv | Cad model compression via automated block generation |
| CN113553635A (en) * | 2021-06-28 | 2021-10-26 | 通号城市轨道交通技术有限公司 | Method and device for configuring graph base primitive, electronic equipment and storage medium |
| CN114491754A (en) * | 2022-01-24 | 2022-05-13 | 同创金泰建筑技术（北京）有限公司 | Method for rapidly merging same image blocks based on drawing software |
| CN116595602A (en) * | 2023-07-17 | 2023-08-15 | 中国核工业二三建设有限公司 | CAD block cleaning method and device, electronic equipment and storage medium |
| CN116595602B (en) * | 2023-07-17 | 2023-09-22 | 中国核工业二三建设有限公司 | CAD block cleaning method and device, electronic equipment and storage medium |
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