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Automatic Layer Set-up

Automatic Layer Set-up

Automatic Layer Set-up

(OP)
Hi Guys,

We are upgrading to NX4 and was wondering if there is a way (other than using templates) to load a layer configuration into a part file when first created (similar to customer defaults in NX4).

We have template files with all the layers set-up, but getting some engineers into the practise of using them is proving a little difficult. If we could automatically load them in when a new file created, I think we could change their working practises.

Many thanks,

Andy.

---------------------
(Using: UG NX2)
Design Draughtsman
Biomet Ltd
www.biomet.co.uk

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

I'm not sure exactly how it was done, but at a previous employer they had it setup like this:  When you select File-New, a window popped up, asking you which template you wanted, after selecting one, you could then give it a name.

Not much help, but I do know its possible.

-Dave
Everything should be designed as simple as possible, but not simpler.

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

(OP)
Thanks Dave,

This could prove useful. If anyone out there knows how to create the suggestion above (or anything similar), please let me know.

Many thanks in advance,

Andy.

---------------------
(Using: UG NX4)
Design Engineer

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

One way to do this is with a grip program that uses a "user exit". You can specify certain commands in UG that will automatically run a grip program that you write. "New", "Save As...", "open spreadsheet", "reposition component" are a few examples of user exits.

There is probably similar functionality in the new journaling available in NX3 and above.

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

If you go the program route and you are not in TCE, I would recommend not using a Save As template but a program that creates the data or import from template so as to take advantage of the UID protection in the file and the objects start in the current NX Kernel and the template would not leave refilled history in every part.

Or am I missing something UGS members?

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

If you're talking about being able to 'transfer' the layer setup, meaning the various layer categories and which layers are assigned to which category, you can do that by creating an empty part file that has all of those categories defined.

Now open up the existing file that you want to inherit these categories, and just do a File/Import/Part... using the previous 'empty' part file for the import.  Your existing part will now inherit all of the predefined categories from the your 'empty' part.

Also, you may notice that views can also be transfered in this manner so if you've got some special views you want to move to an existing file you can do that as well.

John R. Baker, P.E.
Product "Evangelist"
NX Product Line
UGS Corp
Cypress, CA
http://www.ugs.com

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

John's method is how we fix files that were created without using our seed parts.  Only problem is that what layers the differing geometries are on don't usually agree with the catagory names.  It works well for adding correct attributes though.

RE: Automatic Layer Set-up

You're correct, this will no FORCE geometry to move from one layer to another, but at least you can get all your layer 'names/categories' assigned per your standards.

John R. Baker, P.E.
Product "Evangelist"
NX Product Line
UGS Corp
Cypress, CA
http://www.ugs.com

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