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Previous speedup for regenerating vertex-to-vertex mesh was broken;

Browse Source 
it did nothing when GenerateAll got called with an explicit range
(vs. with no args, to run on the dirty groups), so the emphasized
edges ended up out of date. I think this is better.

Also check in latest updates to manual.

[git-p4: depot-paths = "//depot/solvespace/": change = 1852]
This commit is contained in:
Jonathan Westhues 2008-02-07 09:44:27 -08:00
parent a58680201f
commit 5a2803617b
2 changed files with 353 additions and 108 deletions
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434
doc/reference.txt
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@ -4,11 +4,11 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h2>General Navigation</h2> <h2>General Navigation</h2>
Two windows appear on the screen: a larger window that contains The user interface consists of two windows: a larger window that
graphics, and a smaller window that contains text. The graphics contains mostly graphics, and a smaller window that contains mostly
window is used to draw the geometry, and to view the 3d model. The text. The graphics window is used to draw the geometry, and to view
text window provides information about the model, and may also be the 3d model. The text window provides information about the model,
used to modify settings and numerical parameters. and may also be used to modify settings and numerical parameters.
<h3>Graphics Window and Model View</h3> <h3>Graphics Window and Model View</h3>
@ -24,9 +24,11 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
It is also possible to pan by Shift+center-dragging, or to rotate It is also possible to pan by Shift+center-dragging, or to rotate
by Shift+right-dragging. by Shift+right-dragging.
To zoom in or out, rotate the scroll wheel. It is also possible to To zoom in or out, rotate the scroll wheel. It is also possible
zoom by using the View menu, or the associated keyboard shortcuts to zoom by using the View menu, or the associated keyboard
(+ and -). shortcuts (+ and -). Some features, including the planes, are
always drawn the same size on-screen, and are therefore not
affected by zooming.
To zoom to the extent of the part, choose View -> Zoom To To zoom to the extent of the part, choose View -> Zoom To
Fit. This adjusts the zoom level so that the part fits exactly Fit. This adjusts the zoom level so that the part fits exactly
@ -35,11 +37,13 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
If a workplane is active, then choose Sketch -> In Workplane (or If a workplane is active, then choose Sketch -> In Workplane (or
press W) to align the view to the workplane. After doing this, press W) to align the view to the workplane. After doing this,
the plane of the screen is coincident with the workplane. the plane of the screen is coincident with the workplane, and
the center of the workplane is at the center of the screen. The
zoom level is not affected.
The x, y, and z coordinate axes are always drawn at the bottom The x, y, and z coordinate axes are always drawn at the bottom
left of the graphics window, in red, green, and blue. These axes left of the graphics window, in red, green, and blue. These axes
are live. They can be highlighted and selected with the mouse, in are live: they can be highlighted and selected with the mouse, in
the same way as any other normals. (This means that the coordinate the same way as any other normals. (This means that the coordinate
axes are always conveniently available on-screen, which is useful axes are always conveniently available on-screen, which is useful
e.g. when constraining a line parallel to the x-axis.) e.g. when constraining a line parallel to the x-axis.)
@ -51,10 +55,10 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
after the decimal point (45.23), and inch dimensions are always after the decimal point (45.23), and inch dimensions are always
displayed with three (1.781). displayed with three (1.781).
Choose View -> Dimensions in ... to change the current display Choose View -> Dimensions in Inches/Mm to change the current
units. This does not change the model; if the user changes from display units. This does not change the model; if the user
inches to millimeters, then a dimension that was entered as 1.0 changes from inches to millimeters, then a dimension that was
is now displayed as 25.40. entered as 1.0 is now displayed as 25.40.
All dimensions are entered in the current display units. In most All dimensions are entered in the current display units. In most
places where a dimension is expected, it's possible to enter an places where a dimension is expected, it's possible to enter an
@ -66,17 +70,17 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
be shown or hidden by pressing Tab, or by choosing View -> be shown or hidden by pressing Tab, or by choosing View ->
Show Text Window. Show Text Window.
The text window works like a web browser. Any underlined text The text window works like a web browser. Any underlined text is
is a link. To activate a link, click it with the mouse. The links a link. To activate a link, click it with the mouse. The links
may be used to navigate to other pages in the text window. For may be used to navigate to other pages in the text window. For
example, the "home" screen is a list of groups in the sketch: example, the "home" screen is a list of groups in the sketch:
<img src="/pics/ref-text-window.png" /> <img src="/pics/ref-text-window.png" />
To navigate to a group's page, click on that group's name (e.g., To navigate to a group's page, click on that group's name (e.g.,
"g002-sketch-in-plane". The links may also taken actions in the "g002-sketch-in-plane"). The links may also trigger actions in
sketch. For example, in the above screenshot, all of the groups the sketch. For example, in the above screenshot, all of the
are shown. To hide a group, click on the word "yes" in the groups are shown. To hide a group, click on the word "yes" in the
"show" column. "show" column.
As a convenience, the text window will sometimes automatically As a convenience, the text window will sometimes automatically
@ -86,6 +90,26 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
page, by clicking the "home" link at the top left corner (or page, by clicking the "home" link at the top left corner (or
pressing Esc), and following the links from there. pressing Esc), and following the links from there.
When sketch entities are selected (e.g., the user has clicked
on them with the mouse), information about those entities is
displayed in the text window. If a single entity is selected,
then information about that entity is displayed. For example,
the window display's a circle's center and radius.
If multiple entities are selected, then the text window can
sometimes display information about all of them. These cases
include:
two points: the distance between the points
a point and a plane face: the distance from the point to the
plane
two points, and a vector: the distance between the points,
projected along the vector
two plane faces: the angle between the plane faces
<h3>Show / Hide Entities</h3> <h3>Show / Hide Entities</h3>
@ -144,25 +168,26 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
with this link. with this link.
mesh -- The 3d model of the part consists of many mesh -- The 3d model of the part consists of many
triangles; for example, a flat polygon with triangles; for example, a rectangular face is
n sides is broken down into n - 2 triangles. represented by two triangles. Use this link to
Use this link to show the triangles on the show the triangles on the model. This is a good
model. In general, this is useful only for way to see how fine or coarse the mesh is
debugging, or to see how fine the mesh is
before exporting it. before exporting it.
hidden-lines - With the part in a given orientation, some of hidden-lines - With the part in a given orientation, some of
the lines in the part will be invisible, the lines in the part will be invisible,
because they are buried inside the solid part. because they are buried inside the solid part.
To show those lines anyways, as if the part To show those lines anyways, as if the part
were transparent, use this link. This may be were transparent, use this link. This is useful
useful when drawing a sketch that lies within when drawing a sketch that lies within the
the volume of the part. volume of the part.
In addition to the above options, it is possible to hide and show In addition to the above options, it is possible to hide and show
entire groups. If a group is hidden, then all of the entities entire groups. If a group is hidden, then all of the entities
(line segments, circles, arcs, points, etc.) from that group (line segments, circles, arcs, points, etc.) from that group
are hidden. are hidden. The solid model is not affected; if a hidden group
contains a circle that is extruded to form a cylinder, then the
cylinder will remain visible.
To hide a group, go to the home screen in the text window, by To hide a group, go to the home screen in the text window, by
pressing Esc or choosing the link at the top left. A list of pressing Esc or choosing the link at the top left. A list of
@ -227,18 +252,17 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
ultimately, the endmill or the laser or some other tool will ultimately, the endmill or the laser or some other tool will
cut along those curves. cut along those curves.
In some cases, it is useful to draw a line that should not appear In some cases, it is useful to draw a line that should not
on the final part. For example, the user may wish to draw a center appear on the final part. For example, the user may wish to draw
line for a symmetric part; but that center line only exists as a center line for a symmetric part; but that center line is only
a guide, and should not actually get exported with the CAM data. a guide, and should not actually get exported with the CAM data.
Or the user may wish to draw the axis of revolution for a lathe These lines are called construction lines.
group. These lines are called construction lines.
To mark an entity as construction-only, choose Sketch -> Toggle To mark an entity as construction-only, choose Sketch -> Toggle
Construction. A construction entity will behave just like any Construction. A construction entity will behave just like any
other entity, except that it is drawn in green, and does not other entity, except that it is drawn in green, and does not
contribute to the geometry for export (or for extrusion or contribute to the geometry for export (or to the section that
lathing or sweeping). will be extruded or lathed or swept).
<h3>Datum Point</h3> <h3>Datum Point</h3>
@ -282,7 +306,7 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
To stop drawing line segments, press Escape, or right- or To stop drawing line segments, press Escape, or right- or
center-click the mouse. MechSketch will also stop drawing new center-click the mouse. MechSketch will also stop drawing new
line segments if an automatic constraint is inserted. (For line segments if an automatic constraint is inserted. (For
example, draw a closed polygon by left-clicking continuously, and example, draw a closed polygon by left-clicking repeatedly, and
then hovering over the starting point before left-clicking the then hovering over the starting point before left-clicking the
last time. The endpoint of the polyline will be constrained to last time. The endpoint of the polyline will be constrained to
lie on the starting point, and since a constraint was inserted, lie on the starting point, and since a constraint was inserted,
@ -290,7 +314,7 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h3>Rectangle</h3> <h3>Rectangle</h3>
A rectangle consists of two vertical line segments, and two This entity consists of two vertical line segments, and two
horizontal line segments, arranged to form a closed curve. horizontal line segments, arranged to form a closed curve.
Initially, the rectangle is specified with the mouse by two Initially, the rectangle is specified with the mouse by two
diagonally opposite corners. The line segments (and points) diagonally opposite corners. The line segments (and points)
@ -402,12 +426,84 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
then MechSketch will display an error message, and a list of then MechSketch will display an error message, and a list of
available constraints. available constraints.
Most constraints are available in both 3d and projected versions.
If a workplane is active, then the constraint applies on the
projection of the geometry into that workplane. If no workplane
is active, then the constraint applies to the actually geometry
in free space.
For example, consider the line shown below:
<img src="/pics/ref-projd-constraint.png" />
The line's length is constrained in two different ways. The upper
constraint, for 50 mm, applies to its actual length. The lower
constraint, for 40 mm, applies to the length of its projection
into the xy plane. (The xy plane is highlighted in yellow.) The
dotted purple lines are drawn to indicate the locations of the
line segment's projected endpoints.
In normal operation, the user activates a workplane (or a
workplane is activated automatically, for example by creating a
"Sketch in New Workplane" group). The user then draws an entity,
for example a line. Since a workplane is active, the line is
created in that workplane. The user then constrains that line,
for example by specifying its length. Since the workplane is
still active, the constraint actually applies to the projection
of the line segment into the workplane.
In this case, the projected distance is equivalent to the
3d distance. If the line segment lies in the workplane, then
the projection of that line segment into the workplane is just
that line segment. This means that when drawing in a workplane,
most of this can be ignored.
It's possible to use projected constraints in more complex ways,
though. For example, the user might create a line segment in
workplane A, and constrain its projection into workplane B.
Constraints are drawn in purple on the sketch. If a constraint Constraints are drawn in purple on the sketch. If a constraint
has a label associated with it (e.g. a distance or an angle), has a label associated with it (e.g. a distance or an angle), then
then that label may be repositioned by dragging it with the that label may be repositioned by dragging it with the mouse. To
mouse. To modify the dimension, double-click the label; a text modify the dimension, double-click the label; a text box will
box will appear on the screen, where the new dimension can be appear on the screen, where the new value can be entered. Press
entered. Then press enter. enter to commit the change, or Esc to cancel.
<h3>Failure to Solve</h3>
In some cases, the solver will fail. This is usually because the
specified constraints are inconsistent or redundant. For example,
a triangle with internal angles of 30, 50, and 90 degrees is
inconsistent--the angles don't sum to 180, so the triangle could
never be assembled. This is an error.
A triangle with internal angles constrained to 30, 50, and 100
degrees is also an error. This is not inconsistent, because the
angles do sum to 180 degrees; but it's redundant, because only
two of those angles need to be specified.
If the sketch is inconsistent or redundant, then the background
of the graphics window is drawn in red (instead of the usual
black), and an error is displayed in the text window:
<img src="/pics/ref-inconsistent.png" />
As a convenience, MechSketch calculates a list of constraints
that could be removed to make the sketch consistent again. To
see which constraints those are, hover the mouse over the links
in the text window; the constraint will appear highlighted in
the graphics window. By deleting one or more of the constraints
in that list, the user can make the sketch consistent again.
A different type of error occurs when the solver fails to
converge. This may be a defect in the solver, or it may occur
because impossible geometry was specified (for example, a
triangle with side lengths 3, 4, and 10; 3 + 4 = 7 < 10), In
that case, a similar error message is displayed, but without a
list of constraints to remove to fix things. The problem can be
resolved by removing or editing the constraints, or by choosing
Edit -> Undo.
<h3>Reference Dimensions</h3> <h3>Reference Dimensions</h3>
@ -421,12 +517,24 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
and the dimension displays whatever that length happens to be. A and the dimension displays whatever that length happens to be. A
reference dimension does not constrain the geometry. reference dimension does not constrain the geometry.
To change a dimension into a reference dimension, choose Constrain To convert a dimension into a reference dimension, choose
-> Toggle Reference Dimension. A reference dimension is drawn with Constrain -> Toggle Reference Dimension. A reference dimension
"REF" appended to the displayed length or angle. Double-clicking is drawn with "REF" appended to the displayed length or angle.
a reference dimension does nothing; the dimension is specified Double-clicking a reference dimension does nothing; the
by the geometry, not the user, so it is not meaningful to type dimension is specified by the geometry, not the user, so it is
in a new value for the reference dimension. not meaningful to type in a new value for the reference dimension.
<h3>Specific Constraints</h3>
To get help on a specific constraint, choose its menu item without
first selecting any entities. An error message will be displayed,
listing all of the possibilities.
In general, the order in which the entities are selected doesn't
matter. For example, if the user is constraining point-line
distance, then they might select the point and then the line, or
the line and then the point, and the result would be identical.
Some exceptions exists, and are noted below.
<h3>Distance / Diameter</h3> <h3>Distance / Diameter</h3>
@ -434,14 +542,32 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
length of a line segment, or the distance between a point and length of a line segment, or the distance between a point and
some other entity. some other entity.
When constraining the distance between a point and a plane, or
a point and a plane face, or a point and a line in a workplane,
the distance is signed. The distance may be positive or negative,
depending on whether the point is above or below the plane. The
distance is always shown positive on the sketch; to flip to the
other side, enter a negative value.
<h3>Angle</h3> <h3>Angle</h3>
This constraint sets the angle between two vectors. A vector
is anything with a direction; in MechSketch, line segments and
normals are both vectors. (So the constraint could apply to
two line segments, or to a line segment and a normal, or to two
normals.) The angle constraint is available in both projected
and 3d versions.
The angle must always lie between 0 and 180 degrees. Larger or
smaller angles may be entered, but they will be taken modulo
180 degrees. The sign of the angle is ignored.
When two lines intersect, four angles are formed. These angles When two lines intersect, four angles are formed. These angles
form two equal pairs. For example, the pictured lines interesect form two equal pairs. For example, the pictured lines interesect
at 30 degrees and 150 degrees. These two angles (30 and 150) are at 30 degrees and 150 degrees. These two angles (30 and 150) are
known as supplementary angles, and they always sum to 180 degrees. known as supplementary angles, and they always sum to 180 degrees.
<img src="/pics/tut-line-cross-angles.png" /> <img src="/pics/ref-line-cross-angles.png" />
(Notice that in the sketch, three of the angle constraints are (Notice that in the sketch, three of the angle constraints are
reference dimensions. Given any one of the angles, we could reference dimensions. Given any one of the angles, we could
@ -475,12 +601,56 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h3>On Point / Curve / Plane</h3> <h3>On Point / Curve / Plane</h3>
This constraint forces two points to be coincident, or a point
to lie on a curve, or a point to lie on a plane.
The point-coincident constraint is available in both 3d and
projected versions. The 3d point-coincident constraint restricts
three degrees of freedom; the projected version restricts only
two. If two points are drawn in a workplane, and then constrained
coincident in 3d, then an error will result--they are already
coincident in one dimension (the dimension normal to the plane),
so the third constraint equation is redundant.
When a point is constrained to lie on a circle (or an arc of
a circle), the actual constraint forces the point to lie on
the cylindrical surface through that circle. If the point and
the circle are already coplanar (e.g., if they are both drawn
in the same workplane), then the point will lie on the curve,
but otherwise it will not.
<h3>Equal Length / Radius</h3> <h3>Equal Length / Radius</h3>
This constraint forces two lengths, angles, or radiuses to
be equal.
The equal-angle constraint requires four vectors as input:
the two equal angles are the angle between each pair of inputs.
For example, select line segments A, B, C, and D. The constraint
forces the angle between lines A and B to be equal to the angle
between lines C and D. If the wrong supplementary angle is chosen,
then choose Constrain -> Other Supplementary Angle, as for the
angle constraint.
<h3>Length Ratio</h3> <h3>Length Ratio</h3>
This constraint sets the ratio between the lengths of two line
segments. For example, if line A and line B have length ratio
2:1, then the constraint is satisfied if A is 50 mm long and B
is 25 mm long.
The order in which the lines are selected matters; if line A is
selected before line B, then the ratio is length of A:length of B.
<h3>At Midpoint</h3> <h3>At Midpoint</h3>
This constraint forces a point to lie on the midpoint of a line.
The at-midpoint constraint can also force the midpoint of a line
to lie on a plane; this is equivalent to creating a datum point,
constraining it at the midpoint of the line, and then constraining
that midpoint to lie on the plane.
<h3>Symmetric</h3> <h3>Symmetric</h3>
This constraint forces two points to be symmetric about some This constraint forces two points to be symmetric about some
@ -492,13 +662,20 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
workplane. Or, the symmetry plane may be specified as a line in workplane. Or, the symmetry plane may be specified as a line in
a workplane; the symmetry plane is then through that line, and a workplane; the symmetry plane is then through that line, and
normal to the workplane. Or, the symmetry plane may be omitted; normal to the workplane. Or, the symmetry plane may be omitted;
in that case, it is inferred to be either parallel to the active in that case, it is inferred to be parallel to either the active
workplane's vertical axis or its horizontal axis. The horizontal workplane's vertical axis or its horizontal axis. The horizontal
or vertical axis is chosen, depending which is closer to the or vertical axis is chosen, depending which is closer to the
configuration in which the points were initially drawn. configuration in which the points were initially drawn.
<h3>Perpendicular</h3>
This constraint is exactly equivalent to an angle constraint
for ninety degrees.
<h3>Parallel / Tangent</h3> <h3>Parallel / Tangent</h3>
This constraint forces two vectors to be parallel.
In 2d (i.e., when a workplane is active), a zero-degree angle In 2d (i.e., when a workplane is active), a zero-degree angle
constraint is equivalent to a parallel constraint. In 3d, it constraint is equivalent to a parallel constraint. In 3d, it
is not. is not.
@ -514,8 +691,16 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
only one degree of freedom, a 3d parallel constraint restricts only one degree of freedom, a 3d parallel constraint restricts
two degrees of freedom. two degrees of freedom.
This constraint can also force a line to be tangent to a curve.
In order to do this, the line must already share an endpoint with
the curve; this would usually be achieved with a point-coincident
constraint. The constraint will force them to also be tangent
at that point.
<h3>Same Orientation</h3> <h3>Same Orientation</h3>
This constraint forces two normals to have the same orientation.
A normal has a direction; it is drawn as an arrow in that A normal has a direction; it is drawn as an arrow in that
direction. The direction of that arrow could be specified by direction. The direction of that arrow could be specified by
two angles. The normal specifies those two angles, plus one two angles. The normal specifies those two angles, plus one
@ -528,7 +713,7 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
For example, the picture below shows two workplanes, whose For example, the picture below shows two workplanes, whose
normals are constrained to be parallel: normals are constrained to be parallel:
<img src="/pics/tut-parallel-normals.png" /> <img src="/pics/ref-parallel-normals.png" />
Because the normals are parallel, the planes are parallel. But one Because the normals are parallel, the planes are parallel. But one
plane is twisted with respect to the other, so the planes are not plane is twisted with respect to the other, so the planes are not
@ -591,21 +776,31 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
This creates a new empty group, in which the user may draw lines, This creates a new empty group, in which the user may draw lines,
circles, arcs, and other curves. circles, arcs, and other curves.
The ultimate goal is usually to draw closed sections (like
a triangle, or a square with a circular cutout, or some more
complicated shape). These sections are the input for later groups.
For example, an extrude group takes a flat section, and uses it
to form a solid.
If all of the entities in the group can be assembled into closed
loops, then the area that the loops enclose is shaded in very
dark blue. This is the area that would be swept or extruded or
lathed by a subsequent group.
<h3>Sketch in New Workplane</h3> <h3>Sketch in New Workplane</h3>
This creates a new empty group, similar to a new "Sketch in 3d". This creates a new empty group, similar to a new "Sketch in 3d".
The difference is that a "Sketch in New Workplane" also creates The difference is that a "Sketch in New Workplane" also creates
a workplane. The workplane is created based on the entities that a workplane. The workplane is created based on the entities that
are selected when the sketch is created. are selected when the sketch is created. These may be:
A point and two line segments A point and two line segments
The new workplane has its origin at the specified point. The The new workplane has its origin at the specified point. The
workplane is parallel to the two lines. If the point and workplane is parallel to the two lines. If the point is a
two are two edges on a plane face of the part, and a vertex vertex on a face of the part, and the two lines are two edges
on that plane face, then the resulting workplane will be of that face, then the resulting workplane will be coincident
coincident with that face (i.e., the user will be drawing with that face (i.e., the user will be drawing on that face).
on that face).
A point A point
@ -625,6 +820,11 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
The new group's associated workplane is automatically set to be The new group's associated workplane is automatically set to be
the active workplane. the active workplane.
If the entities in this group do not form closed curves, then
an error message is displayed on the screen, and a red line is
drawn across the gap. An error is also displayed if the curves
are not all coplanar.
<h3>Step Translating</h3> <h3>Step Translating</h3>
This group takes geometry in the active group, and copies it This group takes geometry in the active group, and copies it
@ -647,12 +847,12 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
The copies may be translated starting from the original, The copies may be translated starting from the original,
or starting from copy #1. If the translation starts from the or starting from copy #1. If the translation starts from the
original, then the translation will contain the original. (So a original, then the translation will contain the original. (So
1-element step will always produce the input geometry exactly.) a 1-element step will always produce the input geometry in its
If the translation starts from copy #1, then the original is original location.) If the translation starts from copy #1, then
not included in the output. (So a 1-element step makes a single the original is not included in the output. (So a 1-element step
copy of the input geometry, and allows the user to translate it makes a single copy of the input geometry, and allows the user
anywhere in space.) to translate it anywhere in space.)
If the active group is a sketch (sketch in 3d, sketch in new If the active group is a sketch (sketch in 3d, sketch in new
workplane), the the sketch is stepped and repeated. In that case workplane), the the sketch is stepped and repeated. In that case
@ -679,14 +879,19 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
a line segment or a normal; the axis of rotation goes through a line segment or a normal; the axis of rotation goes through
the point, and is parallel to the line segment or normal. the point, and is parallel to the line segment or normal.
If a workplane is active, then it's also possible to select just If a workplane is active, then it's also possible to select
a point; in that case, the axis of rotation goes through that just a point; in that case, the axis of rotation goes through
point, and is normal to the workplane. that point, and is normal to the workplane. This means that the
rotation remains within the plane of the workplane.
By default, three copies are created. If a different number is The step and repeat options (one side / two sides, with original /
typed in (to the group's page in the text window, as for Step with copy #1) are the same as for step translating groups.
Translating), then the copies will be spaced evenly along a
complete circle. The numer of copies is specified in the same way as for step
translating. If the rotated geometry has not yet been constrained,
then the copies will be spaced evenly around a circle; for
example, if 5 copies are requested, then the spacing will be
360/5 = 72 degrees.
To place the copies along less than (or more than) a complete To place the copies along less than (or more than) a complete
circle, drag a point on one of the copies with the mouse; all circle, drag a point on one of the copies with the mouse; all
@ -694,23 +899,22 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
Constraints (for example an angle constraint, or a point-on-lie Constraints (for example an angle constraint, or a point-on-lie
constraint) may be used to specify the angle of rotation exactly. constraint) may be used to specify the angle of rotation exactly.
THe step and repeat options (one side / two sides, with original /
with copy #1) are the same as for step translating groups.
<h3>Extrude</h3> <h3>Extrude</h3>
Before creating a new extrusion, the active group should contain This group takes a flat section, and extrudes it to form a solid.
a sketch that consists entirely of closed curves. The extrude The flat section is taken from the section of the group that
group takes that flat sketch, and extrudes it to form a solid. is active when the extrude group is created. (This is usually
a sketch in workplane, or a sketch in 3d, but could also be a
step and repeat.)
The sketch may be extruded on one side, or on two sides. If the The sketch may be extruded on one side, or on two sides. If the
sketch is extruded on one side, then the new solid is either sketch is extruded on one side, then the new solid is either
entirely above or entirely below the original sketch. (Drag a entirely above or entirely below the original sketch. Drag a
point on the new surface to determine the extrude direction, point on the new surface to determine the extrude direction,
and also to determine the extrude depth. Once the extrusion and also to determine the extrude depth. Once the extrusion
depth looks approximately correct, it may be specified exactly depth looks approximately correct, it may be specified exactly
by using constraints. For example, select a line on the side of by using constraints. For example, the user might constrain the
the extrusion, and constrain its length.) length of one of the newly extruded edges.
If the sketch is extruded on two sides, then the original sketch If the sketch is extruded on two sides, then the original sketch
lies at the exact midpoint of the new solid. This means that lies at the exact midpoint of the new solid. This means that
@ -739,10 +943,10 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h3>Lathe</h3> <h3>Lathe</h3>
Before creating a new lathe group, the active group should contain This group takes a flat sketch, and sweeps it around a
a sketch that consists entirely of closed curves. The lathe group specified axis, to form a solid of revolution. The section
takes that flat sketch, and sweeps it around a specified axis, is taken from the group that is active when the lathe group
to form a solid of revolution. is created.
To create a lathe group, first select a line segment. Then choose To create a lathe group, first select a line segment. Then choose
New Group -> Lathe. The line segment is the axis of revolution. New Group -> Lathe. The line segment is the axis of revolution.
@ -753,13 +957,32 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h3>Sweep</h3> <h3>Sweep</h3>
This group takes a flat sketch, and sweeps it along an arbitrary
trajectory. The section is taken from the group that is active
when the sweep group is created. The path is taken from the
group that precedes the active group.
The section to sweep should be drawn approximately normal
(perpendicular) to the trajectory. As the section is swept,
it is maintained normal to the trajectory.
<h3>Helical Sweep</h3> <h3>Helical Sweep</h3>
This group sweeps a section along a helix. It might be used to This group takes a flat sketch, and sweeps it along a helix. The
draw a screw thread, or a coil spring. section is taken from the group that is active when the helical
sweep is created.
To create a helical sweep, first draw the section to be swept To create a helical sweep, first select a line segment and a
along the helix. point. Then choose New Group -> Helical Sweep. The line segment
is the axis of the helix, and the point determines the radius
of the helix.
To change the parameters of the helix, enter new values in the
helical sweep's page in the text window. For example, a 1/2"-10
screw thread has axial pitch 0.100" per turn (since ten turns
of 0.100" make an inch), and dRadius = 0. A flat coil has axial
pitch zero, but some dRadius. A sweep with nonzero pitch and
dRadius produces a conical helix.
<h3>Import / Assemble</h3> <h3>Import / Assemble</h3>
@ -881,7 +1104,7 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
This option will export a bitmap image of whatever is displayed This option will export a bitmap image of whatever is displayed
on-screen. It is equivalent to taking a screenshot. This option on-screen. It is equivalent to taking a screenshot. This option
is useful for producing human-readable drawings. is useful for producing human-readable output.
Choose File -> Export Image. The file is exported as a PNG, Choose File -> Export Image. The file is exported as a PNG,
which most graphics software can open. which most graphics software can open.
@ -889,9 +1112,9 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h3>2d Vector (DXF)</h3> <h3>2d Vector (DXF)</h3>
This option will generate a 2d vector file that represents a This option will generate a 2d vector file that represents a
specified plane in the part. Most 2d CAM software, including the specified plane in the part. Most 2d CAM software, including
software that ships with laser or waterjet cutters, will accept the software that ships with most laser or waterjet cutters,
a DXF file. will accept a DXF file.
Before exporting a DXF, it is necessary to specify which plane of Before exporting a DXF, it is necessary to specify which plane of
the part should be exported. This may be specified by: the part should be exported. This may be specified by:
@ -927,6 +1150,9 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
The units of the DXF file are determined by the export scale The units of the DXF file are determined by the export scale
factor, which may be specified in the configuration screen. factor, which may be specified in the configuration screen.
The exported DXF contains only line segments; all curves are
broken down into lines, with the specified chord tolerance.
<h3>3d Mesh (STL)</h3> <h3>3d Mesh (STL)</h3>
This option will generate a 3d triangle mesh that represents This option will generate a 3d triangle mesh that represents
@ -1019,6 +1245,20 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
means that some lines that are parallel in real life will not be means that some lines that are parallel in real life will not be
parallel in the drawing; they will converge at a vanishing point. parallel in the drawing; they will converge at a vanishing point.
The image below is a perspective projection. All of the square
cutouts are the same size, but the ones at the front (closer to
the viewer) are drawn larger, and the ones at the back are drawn
smaller.
<img src="/pics/ref-perspective.png" />
The next image is a parallel projection. All of the square
cutouts are the same size on the drawing. (The cutouts at the
top might look slightly larger, but that is an optical illusion,
because the eye is accustomed to seeing images with perspective.)
<img src="/pics/ref-no-perspective.png" />
A perspective projection will often look more realistic, and A perspective projection will often look more realistic, and
gives a better impression of depth. The disadvantage is that gives a better impression of depth. The disadvantage is that
the perspective distorts the image, and may cause confusion. the perspective distorts the image, and may cause confusion.
@ -1063,7 +1303,7 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
<h2>Licensing</h2> <h2>Licensing</h2>
As downloaded, MechSketch does not include a license file. This means As downloaded, MechSketch does not include a license key. This means
that it cannot create files with more than seven groups. Larger files that it cannot create files with more than seven groups. Larger files
may be opened, but not modified. This light version of MechSketch may be opened, but not modified. This light version of MechSketch
is intended for evaluation, but non-commercial / personal use is is intended for evaluation, but non-commercial / personal use is
@ -1072,7 +1312,7 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
The licensed version of MechSketch can create files with an unlimited The licensed version of MechSketch can create files with an unlimited
number of groups. number of groups.
When a license is purchased, a license file ("mechsketch.license") When a license is purchased, a license file ("mechsketch.key")
will be sent via email. To activate the license, save this file will be sent via email. To activate the license, save this file
somewhere on your computer. In MechSketch, choose Help -> Load somewhere on your computer. In MechSketch, choose Help -> Load
License... A file dialog box will appear; select the license file. License... A file dialog box will appear; select the license file.
@ -1080,3 +1320,11 @@ for new users; to learn about this program, see the video tutorials.
No license server or dongle is required, and licenses do not expire. No license server or dongle is required, and licenses do not expire.
angle bracket with gusset
t slot table
slotted box
linkage
inconsistent constraints

25
generate.cpp
View File

@ -127,7 +127,6 @@ bool SolveSpace::PruneConstraints(hGroup hg) {
void SolveSpace::GenerateAll(void) { void SolveSpace::GenerateAll(void) {
int i; int i;
int firstDirty = INT_MAX, lastVisible = 0; int firstDirty = INT_MAX, lastVisible = 0;
bool markVvMeshDirty = false;
// Start from the first dirty group, and solve until the active group, // Start from the first dirty group, and solve until the active group,
// since all groups after the active group are hidden. // since all groups after the active group are hidden.
for(i = 0; i < group.n; i++) { for(i = 0; i < group.n; i++) {
@ -135,23 +134,10 @@ void SolveSpace::GenerateAll(void) {
g->order = i; g->order = i;
if((!g->clean) || (g->solved.how != Group::SOLVED_OKAY)) { if((!g->clean) || (g->solved.how != Group::SOLVED_OKAY)) {
firstDirty = min(firstDirty, i); firstDirty = min(firstDirty, i);
markVvMeshDirty = true;
} }
if(g->h.v == SS.GW.activeGroup.v) { if(g->h.v == SS.GW.activeGroup.v) {
lastVisible = i; lastVisible = i;
} }
if(markVvMeshDirty) {
if(firstDirty == i &&
(g->type == Group::DRAWING_3D ||
g->type == Group::DRAWING_WORKPLANE))
{
// These groups don't change the mesh, so there's no need
// to regenerate the vertex-to-vertex mesh if they're the
// first dirty one.
} else {
g->vvMeshClean = false;
}
}
} }
if(firstDirty == INT_MAX || lastVisible == 0) { if(firstDirty == INT_MAX || lastVisible == 0) {
// All clean; so just regenerate the entities, and don't solve anything. // All clean; so just regenerate the entities, and don't solve anything.
@ -213,6 +199,17 @@ void SolveSpace::GenerateAll(int first, int last) {
g->clean = true; g->clean = true;
} else { } else {
if(i >= first && i <= last) { if(i >= first && i <= last) {
// See if we have to do the vertex-to-vertex mesh, that
// we used for emphasized edges.
if(first == i &&
(g->type == Group::DRAWING_3D ||
g->type == Group::DRAWING_WORKPLANE))
{
// Special case--if the first dirty group doesn't change
// the mesh, then no need to regen edges for it.
} else {
g->vvMeshClean = false; // so we'll regen it
}
// The group falls inside the range, so really solve it, // The group falls inside the range, so really solve it,
// and then regenerate the mesh based on the solved stuff. // and then regenerate the mesh based on the solved stuff.
SolveGroup(g->h); SolveGroup(g->h);