Pns v4 Manual Eng

© Plate 'n' Sheet Development Version 4 Professional Edition

For support visit: www.plate-n-sheet.com.au Page 1

Instruction Manual

© R & L CAD Services Pty Ltd Po Box 5834 MMC Mackay 4740

QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA Tel: +61 7 4952 6188 Fax: +61 7 4952 6488



Table Of Contents

Overview ..............................................................................5

Printing the Pattern ..........................................................................................5 Exporting the Pattern .......................................................................................5

Copyright, Licensing and Disclaimer ................................6

Copyright .........................................................................................................6 License Agreement ..........................................................................................6 Disclaimer ........................................................................................................6

Installing on your Computer ..............................................7

System Requirements......................................................................................7 Installation........................................................................................................7 Support ............................................................................................................8 Ongoing Development .....................................................................................8

Getting Started – Make a Pattern for a Cone ....................9

Getting Started – The Category Menu .............................11

Getting Started – Entering Values ...................................12

When there are two views for entering parameters .......................................13

Apply Material Thickness .................................................14

Dimensioning.....................................................................16

Overview of Auto Dimensions........................................................................16 Overview of Manual Dimensions....................................................................17

Auto Dimension Modes.............................................19

True Lengths..................................................................................................19 Step-Off Dimensions......................................................................................19 Diagonal Dimensions .....................................................................................19 Coordinate Grid and Coordinate Table ..........................................................20 Coordinate Grid..............................................................................................21 Coordinate Table ...........................................................................................21 Item Number ..................................................................................................23 Bend Angles ..................................................................................................24 Display Router Groove Symbols ....................................................................25



Manual Dimensions...........................................................27

Dimension Points ...........................................................................................27 Dimensioning in Model View..........................................................................28 Applying a Manual Dimension........................................................................28

Horizontal Dimensions .........................................................................29

Vertical Dimensions .............................................................................29

Aligned Dimensions .............................................................................29

Offset Aligned Dimension.....................................................................30

Remove Dimension..............................................................................30

Stretch Dimension.................................................................................30

Advanced Dimensioning Issues ......................................32

Hot Keys ........................................................................................................32

Edit Dimension Properties....................................................................32

Shape Properties.......................................................34

Number of Press Lines ..................................................................................35 Angle of the Seam .........................................................................................35 Template Type...............................................................................................35 Kerf Spacing ..................................................................................................36 Router Groove ...............................................................................................36 General Note regarding Properties ................................................................37

Special Properties.....................................................38

Join Type....................................................................39

Global Options...................................................................41

The Color and Display Options Tab ...............................................................41 The General Options Tab ..............................................................................42 The DXF Options Tab ....................................................................................44 The Printing Options Tab ...............................................................................45 Printer Calibration ..........................................................................................45 Material Options.............................................................................................47 Material Editor................................................................................................47

Move and Rotate Pattern ..................................................48



Move Pattern.........................................................................................49

Rotate Pattern.......................................................................................50

Viewing and Zooming ......................51

Pan.......................................................................................................51

Zoom Extents.......................................................................................51

Zoom Previous.....................................................................................51

Zoom Window ......................................................................................51

Dynamic Zoom.....................................................................................51

3D View Buttons...................................................................................52

Rotate View..........................................................................................52

Pattern Information ......................................53

Measure ...............................................................................................53

Mass Properties ...................................................................................53 Materials Editor ..............................................................................................55

Project Identification.............................................................................57

Label ....................................................................................................58

Export DXF and Send to AutoCAD Options....................60

Overview........................................................................................................60 Exporting a Pattern ........................................................................................61 Exporting a Model ..........................................................................................62

Printing.......................................................................64

Print Setup .....................................................................................................64 The Two Modes of Printing ............................................................................65 Printing a Template........................................................................................66 Print the Current View....................................................................................67



Overview Plate ‘n’ Sheet Professional is designed to make it easy to unfold shapes commonly encountered by fabricators and sheet metal workers. The shape is defined by entering dimensions and the unfolded pattern produced instantly by pressing the ‘Enter’ key. ‘Ease of use’ is our guiding principle. In Version 4 we believe we have been able to provide many additional features while maintaining the program’s original simplicity for basic users. The shape may be viewed as either a 3D model or as a flat pattern at any stage of the process. Sizes may be altered at any time and the shape will change dynamically. Tools are supplied to zoom in or out and to view the shape from different angles. Orthographic viewing angles (top, front, side, end and four isometric angles) are available at the click of a button to allow true length measurements to be taken directly from the model. Wherever possible, error messages will let you know if a size is not valid or conflicts with another size. Several dimensioning modes are available and the resultant pattern may be printed or exported as a DXF for use in other software.

Printing the Pattern

Plate ‘n’ Sheet Professional can be used with most printers, from wide format CAD plotters to small A4 inkjet or laser printers. Large full size patterns can be produced on small printers by printing across multiple sheets of paper and joining them up while maintaining accuracy.

Exporting the Pattern

Plate 'n' Sheet Professional may be used with a CAD program or an NC profile cutters. It is able to export both the pattern or 3D model as a DXF file readable by most CAD and related programs. The program is fully “Stand-Alone” and a CAD program or an understanding of CAD is not essential to using the program.



Copyright, Licensing and Disclaimer

Copyright

This manual and the software is the copyright of Richard Stewart and R & L CAD Services Pty Ltd. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be either copied or transmitted in any form, by any means, be it electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the written prior consent of Richard Stewart, Queensland, Australia.

License Agreement

License conditions are displayed during the installation of the software. If you do not agree with the terms of the license you should not proceed with the installation. A USB hardware lock is required to run the program. You may move the program and hardware lock between computers but it may only be used on one computer at a time.

Disclaimer

Every attempt has been made to produce a program that is functional, easy to use and accurate. The final checking of the developed shape remains your responsibility. R & L CAD Services Pty Ltd accepts no responsibility for any losses arising from the use of the program. A summary of the License conditions and disclaimer is available when you are running the software by selecting the “Disclaimer” item from the Help me.



Installing on your Computer

System Requirements

Plate ‘n’ Sheet Professional requires a system capable of running Microsoft Windows (Windows 98, NT 4 and Windows 2000 and Windows XP). Approximately 50 Mb of hard disk space is required to install and run Plate 'n' Sheet Professional. The printer must have a driver that complies with the Microsoft standard for Windows compatible drivers. Some older pen plotters and some “Multi-function” (Fax-Scanner-Copier-etc) are not supported. Call or email to discuss further if you are concerned about the suitability of your printer. The Hewlett Packard DesignJet series is being used successfully by many of our clients for printing large sheet sizes. Because the pattern may be split up into small sheets and then arranged on the plate it is, however, possible to use a small (A4) laser or inkjet printer.

Installation

See the Installation Guide for comprehensive instructions. The program will run in “Demonstration Mode” until the USB Hardware Lock is fitted. A temporary code may be obtained from your dealer if you have purchased the program but are awaiting the arrival of the Hardware Lock by post.



Support

Direct software support may be obtained from R & L CAD Services Pty Ltd by telephone, fax or email. Tel: +61 7 4952 6188 Fax: +61 7 4952 6488 Or email: [email protected]

Ongoing Development

R & L CAD Services Pty Ltd is dedicated to product improvement. Please let us know if you encounter difficulties in using the program or manual or have suggestions for improvements and additions. If you have a special shape not included in the standard package, we are happy to discuss a customized version for a negotiated fee. If the proposed customization happens to be in line with our plans for developing and improving the product, this cost may be minimal.



Getting Started – Make a Pattern for a Cone Start the program and click the “New” button and select a “Cones” from the Main Category List and “Right Cone Truncation” from the Sub Category List. Select the cone as shown below by double-clicking on the shape image or clicking on the Start button.

This will display the Model Window and a diagram of the shape with spaces for entering the values that define the shape (“Parameters”).

Enter sizes here

Name of shape shown here

Sub Category list

Main Category list

Start Button



Enter the shape “parameters”. Note that the parameters are shown in red until they have been entered. Now view the unfolded shape by simply pressing the “Enter” key or clicking the “Pattern View” button!

Note that once the parameters have been successfully processed they change color to blue. You may change the parameters at any time. Press the enter key to apply the new values. A message will be displayed if an invalid value is entered. If the values are red they have not yet been applied. You may alternate between model view and pattern view as you wish. Click on the view buttons to view the shape as a 3D “wire-frame” model. The colored face shows the direction of the view. (Tip! Pause the mouse over a button to find the name of the view.) Return to Pattern View by clicking the “Pattern View” button. Congratulations! You have successfully created the flat pattern development of a cone. The basic process is the same for all shapes. Now for some more details…

“Pattern View” button

“3D View” buttons

“New” Button



Getting Started – The Category Menu The menu consists of a main list of shape categories on the left side and a sub list. The sub list changes as selections are made from the main list.

Selecting from the sub list reveals further choices shown as images. You may begin a shape by either clicking the “Start” button with the left mouse button or by double clicking on an image. Each shape has a brief description. If the shape consists of more than one part, as with the branches shown above, the part highlighted in blue is the part for which the pattern will be created. Select “New” from the “File” pull down menu (or click the “New” button) to return to the Category Menu after completing a pattern.

First select from the Main List

Then select from the Sub List

Or click the Start Button

Shape Description

Double click on an image



Getting Started – Entering Values Enter sizes by clicking on the number and begin typing. Use the delete or backspace keys if you make a mistake. The numbers will be red until they have been processed. Only numbers, the decimal point “.”, and the negative symbol “-“ may be entered. Do not enter units such as “mm” or “Inches” An error message will occur if you forget a size or enter an invalid size. When you close the message box the invalid or missing parameter will be highlighted.

The parameters will change to blue when they have been successfully processed and the shape has updated. Remember, if they are still red they have not been processed and the shape has not updated. Note: If you make a mistake or change your mind, use the ‘Undo’ button to step back through recent changes. Click the ‘Redo’ button to cancel the last ‘undo’ operation.

Error message.

While the parameters are shown in red the shape has not updated.

Incorrect parameter is highlighted when error message is cleared.

Undo and Redo buttons.



When there are two views for entering parameters

Some shapes require two views to fully define the shape. Rectangle-to-round transitions need a top view to dimension the rectangle and a front view to show the height

In these cases, there will be a blue “Hyperlink” to switch from one view to another.

Parameters are blue showing the sizes have been accepted

Click Hypertext to change view

Click Hypertext to return to first view

Parameters are red showing the sizes have NOT been entered or accepted



Apply Material Thickness Plate ‘n’ Sheet Professional will allow for the thickness of the material being used when creating the model and the unfolded pattern.

Enter the thickness of the material to be used. All sizes must be in the same units. For example, if you were to use meters to enter diameters, the thickness must also be in meters. You must tell the program whether the parameters being used are the INSIDE dimensions, OUTSIDE dimensions or the MEAN dimensions. The program will then calculate the shape of the pattern based on the mean thickness of the shape. Note: A “Wrap-Around” template may also be produced for use with stock pipe. In this case the true lengths, as measured at the mean, are transferred to the outside diameter. See the “Shape Properties” section for more details.

In / Out / Mean Setting

Enter the Material Thickness here



For example, in the diagram shown above, the cylinder has a diameter of 100 and the Material Thickness is 10. The INSIDE option is selected so the program knows that this parameter is measured inside the cylinder bore. The pattern will be created for a cylinder with a diameter of 105.

For mild steel and most common materials, the material will compress a little on inside of the bend and stretch a little on the outside of the bend. The “Neutral Axis” of the material (the line that neither stretches or compresses) is very close to the middle of the material when the material bent around a gentle curve as found in most cones and cylinders. There are exceptions to this. See the tutorial about Creating Patterns for Fabricating from Plastic. See also “Help for this Shape” Chutes

Mean Diameter

Material Thickness

Inside measurement as entered

Mean Thickness and “Neutral Axis”



Dimensioning Dimensions may be applied automatically or manually. The following provides a brief overview of each method.

Overview of Auto Dimensions

There are several modes of Auto Dimension available. Auto Dimensions may only be applied to pattern View, not to the wire-frame model. The Auto Dimension Options are enabled by selecting from the “Dimension “pull-down menu or by clicking on the tool bar button:

The text size for the dimensions is shown on the drop down list. While text size may be changed after the dimensions have been applied, it is more efficient to set the size before.

The Auto Dimension dialog box shows the various dimensioning modes. Each Auto Dimension mode will be discussed in detail later. For now, just select “True Lengths” by clicking on the check box.

Dimension Menu

Auto Dimension Toolbar button

Default Text Size

Click here for apply True Lengths



The result will be as follows:

The true length of each press line has been placed onto the pattern. Experiment by turning various modes on and off by returning to the Auto Dimension options.

Overview of Manual Dimensions

A horizontal, vertical or aligned dimension may be applied between any two points. Manual dimensions can be applied to the pattern and also orthographic views of the 3D model. That is, the Top View, Front View and Side Views but not isometric or rotated views.

To manually apply a horizontal dimension, click on a toolbar button.

Click a point on the pattern using the left mouse button and hold it down. The dimension will find the closest point. A small circle will appear at each point as the mouse moves over the pattern.

True lengths printed along each press line

Click this button for a Horizontal Dimension.



Keep the mouse button down as you drag the mouse to the second point and then release it when the second small circle is over the required point. Move the mouse until the dimension line is in the correct position and click again.

Horizontal and vertical dimensions applied manually to the pattern.

Dimensions applied manually to the wire frame model.

When you change to another view those dimensions will no longer be visible. However, they will be displayed again when you return to the view current when they were created.



Auto Dimension Modes

True Lengths

This mode displays the “true length” of each press line as an aid to marking the shape onto the material or to check the shape and scale of the pattern.

Step-Off Dimensions

This mode displays the straight-line distance from the end of one press line to the end of the next press line. Step-Off Dimensions may be applied around the base profile or around the top profile.

Diagonal Dimensions

This mode displays the diagonal distance from the end of one press line to the start of the next press line. This provides a means of triangulating the shape to mark it onto the material or to check the printed shape. See below for examples of each of the Auto Dimension modes described above.

Apply “Step-Off” dimensions around the top or base.

Apply “Diagonal Dimensions”.

Apply “True Length” dimensions along each press line.



Coordinate Grid and Coordinate Table

This mode displays the X and Y coordinates of each point around the profile. That is, the horizontal and vertical distances measured from the left edge and base line of the pattern.

See below for examples of each of the Auto Dimension modes described above.

Diagonal Dimensions

Step-Off around the top.

Step-Off around the base.

Apply a “Coordinate Grid”.

Apply labeled points and a “Coordinate Table”.



Coordinate Grid

This mode displays the distances in the X and Y-axes (as measured from the left hand edge and base line of the pattern.

Coordinate Table

This mode marks the ends of each press line with a code. A table of coordinates of each corresponding point may be viewed by clicking the co-ordinate table button on the tool bar.

Apply a “Coordinate Grid”.

Labels to suit a “Coordinate Table”.



The Table of Coordinates may be positioned on the drawing by clicking the “ok” button, saved as a text file by using “save” option or printed directly by using “print option”.

The display of the table on the drawing is controlled by the display table checkbox. To hide the table, deselect the checkbox.

Click this button to access the Coordinate Table dialog



Frame and Area When this mode is selected a rectangle is drawn around the shape with the length, width and area displayed. This is useful for determining the size of the material required to make the shape. It is also useful for finding the most economical arrangement of the pattern. Sometimes rotating the shape allows the shape to be cut from a smaller piece of material.

Item Number

When this mode is selected the number of the item is displayed on the pattern. The date and time that the shape was last updated is also displayed. The item number may not be necessary for single part items but is useful when the pattern is of an item made from several parts, such as a segmented bend. The item number is also displayed on the wire-frame model to help identify the parts.

Rectangular Area Length of the

Rectangle

Width of the rectangle

Item Number and Date/Time Stamp



Bend Angles When this mode is selected the bend angle is displayed down each press line. To distinguish it from a true length dimension is shown in brackets and with a degree symbol (160°°°°).

The press lines are to be pressed down. For example, the press lines on the transition shown are on the inside surface. The angle displayed is the angle between two adjacent faces measured at right angles to the press line.

If you are using a press, press down on the press line if the angle is less than 180°. Press up if the angle is greater than 180°.

Bend Angle displayed



Display Router Groove Symbols Fabricating shapes from plastics may require additional preparation. It is a common practice to cut a groove with a router along the press lines. The bending then takes place at the bottom of the groove.

Before this option is available there must be a value in Material Thickness and in the Router Groove property.

Router Groove Symbol

Material Thickness must be entered.

Enter “Router Groove” Dimension



Once the Material Thickness and Router Groove parameter is entered, this option will be enabled. When this mode is selected a symbol is placed on the press line to show the router groove dimension and direction.

If the symbol points down as shown, the groove is to be cut into the same side as viewed. If the symbol points up, the angle will be greater than 180 and the groove is to be cut on the opposite side.

See the section about Properties for more details on the use of Router Grooves.

Click “Router Groove” check box.



Manual Dimensions There are several types of Manual Dimension available. Auto Dimensions may be applied to both Pattern View and wire-frame Model View. The Manual Dimensions are applied by selecting from the “Dimension “pull-down menu or by clicking on the tool bar button:

The text size for the dimensions is shown on the drop down list. While text size may be changed after the dimensions have been applied, it is more efficient to set the size before.

Dimension Points

• The endpoints of the press lines. • The reference point (the little cross that appears at the apex

of a cone pattern).

Dimensions may be attached only to certain points on the shape, as follows:

Dimensioning Menu

Dimensioning Toolbar buttons

Default Text Size



• The midpoint between the endpoints of press lines on the profile.

• The corner points of the rectangular frame when “Frame and Area” is enabled.

• Points around the perimeter of the lap join allowance. • Points around the perimeter of a hole, such as in a branch.

Dimensioning in Model View

Manual Dimensions may be applied in Model View in orthographic views only. Orthographic views are the Top View, Front View, Rear View and End Views only. Dimensions cannot be applied in isometric or rotated views. When you change to another view those dimensions will no longer be visible. However, they will be displayed again when you return to the view that was current when they were created.

Applying a Manual Dimension

Click a toolbar button or select from the dimension pull-down menu. Move the mouse over the shape and a small circle will jump to the closest dimensioning point. Click with the left mouse button when

Manual dimensions applied to the wire frame model.



the small circle is on the required point. Keep the mouse button down. With the left button held down move the mouse over the shape until the small circle is over the second point then release the button. Move the mouse again and stretch the dimension out until the dimension line is in the required position. Click and release the left mouse button.

Horizontal Dimensions

A horizontal dimension may be applied between any two points. It displays the horizontal distance between the two points even if the points are not aligned horizontally.

Vertical Dimensions

Similarly, a vertical dimension may be applied between any two points. It displays the vertical distance between the two points even if the points are not aligned vertically.

Aligned Dimensions

An Aligned Dimension may be applied between any two points. It displays the direct, shortest distance between the two points. The dimension is drawn as a line connecting the two points. It is similar to the manual dimension in Version 3 of the program.



Offset Aligned Dimension

An Offset Aligned Dimension may be applied between any two points. It displays the direct, shortest distance between the two points and allows the dimension to be offset from the origin points.

Remove Dimension

To remove a dimension: Click the tool bar button or select from the “Dimension” pull-down menu. Move the mouse over the shape on the screen. Each dimension will be highlighted in turn. Left click with the mouse when the correct dimension is highlighted.

Stretch Dimension

Stretching allows the dimension line and text to be moved while leaving the origin points attached. To Stretch a dimension:

Offset Aligned Dimension

Aligned Dimension

Aligned Dimension



Click the tool bar button or select from the “Dimension” pull-down menu. Move the mouse over the shape on the screen. Each dimension will be highlighted in turn. Hold down the left mouse when the correct dimension is highlighted. Holding down the left button move the mouse. Drag the dimension line (shown dotted) to the new position and release the mouse button.



Advanced Dimensioning Issues

Hot Keys

The dimension operations above can be used more efficiently with the use of certain “Hotkeys”. Pressing certain keys on the keyboard can be used rather than clicking a toolbar button or selecting from a menu and some users find this faster. Hot key Operation A Aligned Dimension D Remove Dimension H Horizontal Dimension O Offset Dimension P Edit Dimension Properties S Stretch Dimension V Vertical Dimension

Edit Dimension Properties

The properties of all or individual dimensions may be modified after they have been attached to the drawing. The properties that may be modified are font size and color and dimension line color. This can be used to highlight important dimensions using color, to reduce the size of text in congested areas of the drawing and adjust the color to make it more printable. Click the Edit Dimension Properties button on the Dimension toolbar (or type the Hotkey “P” on the keyboard. Move the mouse over the pattern to highlight the required dimension. Click with the left mouse button to select. The dialog box shown below is displayed showing the properties of the selected dimension. Select Text Size (font size) from the drop down list. Select the text color or dimension line color by clicking on the corresponding color patches and choosing a new color from the color array that is displayed.



Having chosen the new properties, you are able to apply them to: The specific dimension. Dimensions of the selected type. For example, Horizontal dimensions only, True Length dimensions, and so on. All dimensions on the drawing.

A Note regarding Dimension Types and Auto Dimensioning Dimensions in Version 4 that have been applied using Auto Dimensioning are the same as dimensions applied manually. This was not the case in Version 3. This means that individual Auto Dimensions may be deleted or have its properties modified.



Shape Properties There are various settings that can be applied to the shape. The “Properties” dialog is used to modify these settings.

Not all of the settings are applicable to every shape. When a setting is not relevant that setting will be “grayed out”.

Click the “Properties” button here to access the Properties dialog.



Each setting and its purpose are discussed below. See expanded views below.

Number of Press Lines

Sets the number of Press lines (also known as “True Length Lines”) used to generate the shape.

Generally speaking, a greater number of bend lines results in a more accurate pattern, particularly for transitional shapes (for example Rectangle to Round). However, a large number of lines may also slow down the generation of the views and pattern. The default value of 24 is sufficient for most shapes based on the cone and cylinder.

Angle of the Seam

This setting, when applicable, determines the position of the join or seam.

It is not applicable to all shapes, as some must have the seam on a particular side or position (branches, for example). If it cannot be applied to a particular shape it will be greyed out.

Template Type

This setting can be applied only to cylindrical shapes. It has two options: Mean Thickness: Use this setting when the pattern is to be cut from flat material and then pressed or rolled to shape. As

Click the “Properties” button here to access the Properties dialog.

Enter the position of the seam as an angle between 0 and 360.



discussed in the topic on Material Thickness the pattern is recalculated on the mean thickness of the material.

Wrap Around: Use this setting when you are using stock pipes or pre-formed cylinders. This option is used to create a thin template that wraps around the pipe. The true lengths are as measured at the mean thickness but are transferred to the circumference of the outside of the cylinder.

Kerf Spacing

This applies when multiple parts are nested in a single sheet (for example, the Elbow or Segmented Bend). In such cases this option will be visible and allows the user to set a gap between each component to allow for the thickness of the cut.

Router Groove

Router groove is used when folding some plastic material and specifies the remaining material at the bottom of the groove. Zero (0) means no groove.



This option is only available if there is a value in “Material Thickness”. The Router Groove value must also be less than the Material Thickness.

When there is a value in Router Groove, the “Display Router Groove” option in Auto Dimension Options is enabled and allows the Router Groove Symbol to be shown on the press lines (see Auto Dimension Options for further details).

General Note regarding Properties

All the properties settings are specific to the pattern being produced. For example, if you are working on more than one pattern at a time and set the number of Press Lines to 48, this value is applied only to the current pattern and other patterns that are currently open may have a different value applied to them.

Router Groove Symbol is enabled in Auto Dimension Options.



Special Properties Some shapes will display an additional ‘Special Properties’ button as shown above. In this case the shape has additional settings if required. If this button is “greyed out’” then there are no special properties. For example, the 'Rectangle to Round' transitions may be broken up by a variety of methods so that the join may be on the corners or on the flat, so that the pattern may be created as a single part, two parts or four parts.

It is not necessary to select ‘Special Properties’ to obtain a full standard pattern however you may like to look at what options are available. Other shapes with special properties include the Segmented Bends, Ovals and Elbows. Over time additional options will be added to other shapes.



Join Type Click the Join Type button to nominate the type of join and allowances if required. The default join type is a ‘Butt” join where meeting edges of the shape butt against each other with no allowance for overlap.

Alternatively, if an overlap is required, click the “Lap” option button.

Apply an overlap by placing a lap allowance against the corresponding edges in the Join Type dialog. Sometimes, even though a butt join is required, laps may be used to ensure that there is “green” material at each end of the shape.

Lap Option Button

Enter sizes of Lap Join



10 mm Lap Join

10 mm Lap Join setting

Join Type button



Global Options Global Options are settings for default properties, printing, display colors and others. The Global Options dialog is displayed by either selecting from the “Tools” pull-down menu or from the Right-Click pop-up menu (click the right mouse button while it is over the drawing).

The options are saved as a file on the hard disk and “read” each time the program is started. There are five groups of settings as shown on the tabs of the dialog box and their function is described below. The Color and Display Options Tab The General Options Tab The DXF Options Tab The Printing Options Tab The Material Options Tab

The Color and Display Options Tab

Controls the color of screen objects such as lines and text. For example, some CAD users prefer to work with a black background and select line colors that contrast to black. To change the background color:

Global Option Tabs



For example, to change the color of the Press Lines, click on the adjacent color patch to show the Color Selection dialog. Select the new color and click the “OK” button to apply the new color.

Repeat this process to change the object color of other objects as required.

The General Options Tab

The General Tab allows a default number of Press Lines to be set. If you find that you always set the number of press lines to 48, for example, set that as a Global Option and it will be the default number for each new shape. Similarly, you may also set the default text size and the number of decimal places for dimensions and measurements.

Click on Color patch to change color.

Click on the new color.



Set the default value for the “Inside/Outside/ Mean” option and “Material Thickness” for each shape. For example, if you usually use 5 mm thick material and sizes based on “Inside”, you may set these values as the defaults instead of 0.0 and “Mean”. You can, of course, always change it as you enter the shape parameters if there is an exception.



The DXF Options Tab

The DXF Tab sets options for exporting DXF files. It also controls how shapes are imported into to AutoCAD.

The text size in the AutoCAD DXF is measured in units of measurement (mm or inches), rather than font size. Set the “Text Size in DXF” value in the same units that you are using to enter the parameters of the shape. The layer names will be used in the DXF file. You may enter your layer names here if you have a different layer naming convention or require specific layer names to suit a profile cutter.



The Printing Options Tab

The Printing tab controls the default settings and appearance of the printed page.

Printer Calibration

You may find that your printer consistently prints with a scale error in one or both directions. For example, your printer may print accurately in the direction that the printer head moves across the paper but has a small error in the direction that the paper feeds. Printer calibration compensates for such errors. If the printer is accurate the calibration parameters will be set to 1. If the printed pattern is consistently undersize in one or both directions, enter a value slightly greater than 1. The dimensions of the shape are multiplied by this value as they are sent to the printer.



Click the “Assist” button for help in determining this value. Note that it may take several attempts to arrive at the correct calibration. Typical values will be quite small variations, such as 1.08 or 0.993. Large values generally suggest an error in the calibration value or a problem with the printer.



Material Options

If you are carrying out calculations using area, mass and cost of different materials, these values must be set to get accurate results.

Material Editor

Enter the properties of the materials being used. The materials shown below are examples only. Note that the materials table will be different if you are using “Units” set to millimeters rather than inches.



Move and Rotate Pattern You may wish to rotate or move a pattern so that it fits better on the available material. When patterns consist of multiple parts (for example, an Elbow) one part may be moved or rotated relative to the remaining parts. Move and rotate may only be carried out in pattern view. The process for both moving and copying consists of three basic steps: Select the pattern to be moved or copied Click on a reference point on the object Watch an image move or rotate on the screen and pick a second point at the required position or rotation.



Move Pattern

First select the “Move” button on the tool bar.

Move the cursor over the pattern. Each part will be highlighted (change color) as the cursor moves over it. Select the shape required to move by left clicking the mouse.

The cursor will change to a “hand”, click down with the left mouse button and drag the pattern to the new position.

Release the mouse button when it is correctly placed.

Pattern is highlighted

Drag to new location

“Drop” in new position



Rotate Pattern

Rotate a pattern around a point.

Move the cursor over the pattern. Each part will be highlighted (change color) as the cursor moves over it. Select the shape required to move by left clicking the mouse.

A small circle appears on the pattern. Move it until it is at the required axis point and press down with the left mouse button. Hold it down while you select a second point (rotation point).

Moving the mouse will cause the shape to rotate around the axis point. Release the mouse button when the shape is at the required angle.

Note: The first and second points of rotation will automatically align themselves to 0 degrees and increments of 5 degrees measured from 0 (the X-Axis). Therefore, if you want points on the pattern to be horizontally or vertically aligned, pick those points as the axis and rotation points. The pattern will automatically snap those points to the closest 1-degree increment.

Pattern highlighted

The small circle

Rotate and “Drop” in new position



Viewing and Zooming

Pan

Click the Pan View button on the main tool bar to move the pattern within the current view port. In fact, you are not really moving the object. You are moving your view of the object in the same way you might pan across a scene with a movie camera. The coordinates of the point remain unchanged. This is the case with all of the viewing tools.

Zoom Extents

Click the Zoom Extents button on the tool bar to zoom in or out until the entire shape is visible on the screen.

Zoom Previous

Click the Zoom Previous on the main tool bar to return to the previous view.

Zoom Window

Use the Zoom Window button to zoom by drawing a rectangle across the screen. Nominate the first corner of the rectangle by clicking and holding the left mouse button down. Stretch out the rectangle. When you release the mouse button the pattern will zoom to the area of the rectangle.

Dynamic Zoom

Click the Dynamic Zoom button to zoom in and out in “real time”. Pick a point close to the bottom of the screen, hold down the left mouse button, move the cursor toward the top of the screen to make the image appear larger. Release the left mouse button. This can be carried out multiple times. To zoom out dynamically, pick a



point near the top of the screen, holding down the left mouse button, the cursor toward the bottom of the screen.

3D View Buttons

Clicking on a View button will show a view of the 3D “wire-frame” model. The view will be of the shape as seen from the colored side of the cube symbol.

For example, the center button, with the colored side of the cube at the top displays a Top View of the model. The lower right button displays an Isometric view from the right-front angle. As mentioned in the dimensioning instructions, dimensions may be applied on orthographic views only of the 3D model. The orthographic views are Top View, Front View, Rear View, Right- End View And Left-End View.

Rotate View

Rotate View is only is available in 3D Model View and is used to rotate the view of the model dynamically. The center of rotation around which the view pivots is the center of the base of the model. Rotating the view dynamically allows the user to freely rotate the shape so that a better understanding of the shape can be obtained. It also allows the user to rotate the shape so that points that are superimposed can be selected for measurement. To use it, click the Rotate View button and bring the mouse cursor over the screen. Press down with the left button and move the mouse holding the left button down. As the mouse is moved horizontally, the model rotates around the vertical axis. As the mouse is moved up and down the screen the model rotates around a horizontal axis. Release the mouse button when the view is in the required orientation.



Pattern Information Getting additional information from the pattern and the model.

Measure

You may find the distance between any two points on either the pattern or the 3D model by clicking the measure button on the tool bar. Move the cursor over the first point press down the left mouse button, release the button over the second point. The point-to-point distance is displayed in a dialogue in addition the coordinates of each point, the angle in the X-Y plane, the distance in the X, Y and Z directions (delta X, delta Y, delta Z) are displayed.

Mass Properties

Click the material properties on the toolbar to display the Material Properties dialogue box. This will show us the area, mass and cost of the shape as a rectangle and the true shape. The rectangular area, rectangular perimeter, rectangular mass and cost are based on a rectangle fitted to the extremities of the shape.

Second Point

First Point

True 3D distance

Coords of each point

Distances in the XYZ axes



It is the minimum rectangle from which the shape may be cut in the current position and rotation. The True area, true perimeter, true mass and cost is the area bounded by the true shape of the pattern. It will be the true mass of the finished item.

If the “Apply Label” check box is ticked, the label information will be printed onto the drawing. Once the label is on the drawing, it can be moved simply by clicking on it and holding down the left mouse button while dragging. Double click the label text to re-open the label dialog box. You may change the text color and font size. Hide the label by de-selecting the ‘Display Label’ check-box. Important Note: If the material thickness is 0 (zero), then the mass and cost will also be zero. If this is the case, exit from the Material Properties dialog and set the material thickness. The program can now calculate the mass.

Material Description

Rectangular properties

True Shape Properties



Materials Editor

For the mass and cost to be accurate, some preliminary work is needed. First, go to the ‘Tools’ pull-down menu and select ‘Global Options’. Click on the ‘Material’ Tab. Click the option button to select ‘Inches’ or ‘millimeters’. Also enter the unit of currency required if your national currency is not dollars. Click the ‘Save’ button if you wish to save these settings as “defaults” for future shapes.

Next, click the ‘Material Editor’ button. Some sample data has been entered into the Materials Editor for testing purposes and this should be replaced with current data from your material supplier. The materials editor may also be accessed directly from the ‘Tools’ pull-down menu. It consists of a table of ‘Description’, ‘Mass Per Unit Area’ and Cost Per Unit Area. In the case of the metric units, the area is converted to square meters to reduce the size of the numbers. The value “Kg/sq. m’ is the mass in kilograms of a square meter of the material per 1 mm of thickness. Some steel merchants quote the density of material per cubic meter (this is typically 7850 kg/cubic meter for steel). If this is the case, divide it by 1000 to get the mass per mm of thickness. The cost is in dollars (or your currency) per kg.



Material table - Metric

In the case of the Imperial (inch) units the area is in square feet. The mass is in pounds per square foot for 1 inch of thickness of the material. The cost is in dollars (or your currency) per pound (lb).

Material table - Imperial (inches)

The Materials data may also be modified using Microsoft Access, however be careful not to change field names or leave blank rows or blank values within a row. The name of the file is Materials.mdb

Next, there must be a thickness setting greater than 0. With a thickness of 0 (zero), the mass and the cost will show as 0 (zero).



Project Identification

Click the project identification button on the tool bar to display the identification dialogue box.

You may enter a project identification name or number, project description and the name or initials of the person who has produced it.

This information will be saved with the shape and can be recalled at any time. It is added to the Label and may be printed with the drawing. In addition, if you have the Auto-Dimension option “Item Numbers” selected the Project ID will be printed on each part.

Project ID added to item

Project ID added to label and printed with the drawing.



Label

A label may be positioned on the drawing to show the parameters entered to create to the shape. This can be printed with the pattern as a way of identifying the pattern and so the fabricator can check that the dimensions are correct during the rolling or pressing operation.

If the “Apply Label” check box is ticked, the label information will be printed onto the drawing. Once the label is on the drawing, it can be moved simply by clicking on it and holding down the left mouse button while dragging. Double click the label text to re-open the label dialog box. You may change the text color, font size or hide the label by de-selecting the “Apply Label” check box. The label may also be printed separately for attachment to the cut material.

“Apply Label” check-box to hide or display the label on the drawing.

Change font and text size

Project Identification

Dimensional information



Do not be concerned if the label hides lines on the drawing. When it is printed the text will be transparent. If you click the print button and view the Print Preview, you will see what the drawing will look like after printing.

Label after positioning on the drawing



Export DXF and Send to AutoCAD Options

Overview

The DXF is a common format for exchanging CAD data between programs. Use the ‘Export DXF’ you wish to export the unfolded pattern or 3D model to a CAD program or other software for further drafting. For example, you may wish to add the unfolded pattern or views of the model into an existing CAD drawing for further dimensioning. Select ‘Export DXF’ and save the file with a meaningful name. Open this file with the CAD program you are using and continue to work on it. These tasks are selected from the “File” pull-down menu. If you are using AutoCAD (the "full" version 2000 or later) you can transfer the pattern or view directly onto the AutoCAD screen. If you are using AutoCAD LT you must save the DXF, as described above, and open it with AutoCAD LT. You may also insert the DXF into an existing drawing as a block.

Many NC profile cutters also use software that can read a DXF file and generate the NC code. Nesting programs can also usually read a DXF exported from Plate ‘n’ Sheet. The options available for the ‘Export DXF’ and ‘Send to AutoCAD’ are the same. In each case you may export:

• The Unfolded Pattern. • The 3D Model. • The current view of the 3D model as a 2D drawing.

Export Options



In addition, you may choose to export the shape only or include dimensions and text. Note that the current view determines what is exported and the options that are available. If the current view is of the unfolded pattern, the available options will be a little different than if the view is of the model. In either case, when you select ‘Export DXF’, you will be prompted for a filename. Make a note of the name and the folder. Meaningful names are usually best – use the Job Number, or client name, etc.

Exporting a Pattern

The following options are available if the current view is of the unfolded pattern.

The available options are grouped as follows: ‘Items to Export’: You may choose to export the cutting profile only, the cutting profile with press lines. In addition, by clicking the ‘Export All Items Displayed’ checkbox any dimensions, labels or text may be exported as part of the DXF. ‘Outside Profile Exported As’: These options determine the entity type used for the outside profiles. AutoCAD polylines are a continuous sequence of connected points. It behaves as a single



entity. This has some advantages to AutoCAD users but is not always compatible with other CAD programs. Note: The ‘Arc and line’ option uses a series of arcs of best fit around curves. Polylines, on the other hand, connect each point with straight-line segments. Consider increasing the number of press lines to get a smoother curve around radii if using this option. The DXF text size may be set at this point. The default value is determined by the Global Options setting. This size is a dimension in drawing units. For example, if you are creating a cone that is 2400 mm in diameter, the text may have to be 50 mm high to be legible on the printed drawing. Once the shape has been imported into a CAD program it may be modified.

Exporting a Model

The following options are available if the current view is of the unfolded pattern.

The available options are grouped as follows: ‘Items to Export’: You may choose to export the full 3D Model, where each point is an X,Y,Z coordinate. Alternatively, you may



export the current view as a 2D drawing. In addition, by clicking the ‘Export All Items Displayed’ checkbox any dimensions, labels or text may be exported as part of the DXF. ‘Outside Profile Exported As’: These options determine the entity type used to construct the shape. If you are exporting the 3D model you may export it as a surface mesh or as line segments. A surface mesh can be shaded or rendered in AutoCAD but may not be compatible with all CAD programs. A 3D model exported as lines and arcs is more compatible but is a “wire-frame” model and cannot be shaded.



Printing

Print Setup

The Print Setup dialog box is provided so that you can: • Select a printer • Set a page size • Set the page orientation (portrait or landscape mode) • Set the units to be either inches or millimeters • Decide whether the printed drawing is in color or

monochrome (black and white).

You will find access to the Print Setup dialog from the ‘File’ pull-down menu. You may also change the settings from the ‘Print Preview’ window. Best results are obtained, however, by making these settings before using the previewing so that the sheet size and units are appropriate for the size of the shape. Then, use the Print Settings within the preview window to “Fine-Tune” the print job. The initial (default) settings may be set and saved in ‘Global Options’.



The Two Modes of Printing

Printing a Template: Select this option if you wish to print the unfolded pattern to scale to use as a template. The first preview will show the extents of the shape and the number of pages required to print it. Printing the Current View: Selecting this option allows the user to print the current view including a 3D model view or a pattern view but it will not be to scale. It will be printed at the current zoom scale.

Selecting an option will automatically display the ‘Print Preview’ window. The preview window will have different options depending on whether you have chosen to print a template or a view.



Printing a Template

Select print template to print the required pattern. You can choose to print the template with or without border marks. By clicking the “show/hide border marks” button you can opt to print the border marks and ruler marks or not. If the shape is larger than the sheet size selected in ‘Printer Setup’, the outline of multiple sheets will be superimposed over the shape. You may print individual sheets, all of the sheets or the entire shape scaled down to fit on a single sheet. This selection is made from the drop-down list in the upper left corner of the print preview window. You can print on one page or multiple pages depending on the pattern size and orientation. If printing on multiple pages the page numbers will be shown in the bottom left hand corner (A1, A2 … B1, B2….) of the sheet.

Select print operation here

Change printer setup options here

Borders of multiple sheets

Multiple sheet labels



Print the Current View

Select print current view to print what is shown on the screen. By clicking the “show/hide border marks” button you can choose to print showing the border marks and/or ruler marks. There is only one option when selecting print current view and that is to print what is on the screen only.

Documents

Pns v4 Manual Eng