Shop drawing automation using ObjectARX

[chebanovandrii]

I want to develop a plugin that generates the shop drawings for cabinetry automatically without user interaction from start to end.

Currently, my plugin creates the 3d models of the cabinetry from the given parameters.

However, I am not sure how to generate the specific views such as plan, elevation, and section as well as detail views.

I am considering using Drawing View or SolView + SolDraw for the plan and elevation, and Section Plan for the section views.

But there seems to be no way to manipulate the drawing view in ObjectARX.

Who has experience with similar projects?

Or who knows what is the best solution for this purpose?

Even whether is it possible?

Thank you.

[daniel_cadext]

Used to use a product called DrawPower by Pattern Systems that did that. Microvellum I guess does this. I always wanted to develop a ‘pseudo 3D’ casework program, generate all the views, but also create parts in DXF for CNCs. A modern version of Product Planner inside CAD

3D is great if your doing a kitchen, not so great for huge commercial projects.

[chebanovandrii]

Hi Daniel,

Thanks for your response.

Do you know what approach they use to develop Microvellum?

It seems very similar to what I am going to develop.

.NET or ARX?

[daniel_cadext]

Guessing Microvellum uses both ARX and .NET, I think they’re using OEM.

Either or both will do the job, use the language you like best.  I think MV used Excel as their expression evaluator back in the day, not sure if they still do. I would look at something multithreaded these days.

[chebanovandrii]

Hi Daniel,

Thank you very much.

I think you are an expert in AutoCAD development and other technologies too.

I wish I was like you in AutoCAD development, but it is really challenging.

Could you please send me some example projects that can help me develop my own project?

I believe you fully understand my intention and can guide me in the right direction.

I look forward to your great help.

Best regards,

Andrii

[daniel_cadext]

Haven’t been in that industry for many years. I’m retired, now tend to my pineapple plant and goof around with python.