This zone is common for all three types of point generation (on a series of curves, on a surface by distribution, on a series of surfaces on a grid).

The export of the coordinates is done in the units and the number of decimals defined in the options of the document.


 


 


By default the coordinates of the created points are taken with respect to the part origin. It is possible to select a coordinate system, a sketch point or a vertex, the coordinates will be calculated with respect to this point.

This point cannot be the same as the starting point. If this is to be the case, you must create a on this point (or vertex) and select it.


  • ''Enable previewBy checking this option, for each change and validation of an information, you instantly preview the result in the graphical window.

However, there are two limits set by default for this preview:

    • Up to 500 generated points, the preview is displayed correctly, beyond that a validation window asks the user for authorization to display or not the points.


 


    • Above 2000 points, for performance reasons, a message indicates that the preview is automatically disabled.


    


You can, however, continue to modify values (blindly). When you validate the parameters, the points are calculated and created.


  • ''Creating points in SOLIDWORKSThis option is usually checked and will generate a 2D sketch or a 3D sketch depending on the selected geometry and parameters. For example this option will be unchecked in case only export to a file is required.


 

  


If this option is not checked, only the file will be generated. This can be very useful, if the user wants to generate hundreds or even thousands of points. In this case, the performance of SOLIDWORKS will not be good and it will still be possible to reread the points file with ScanTo3D.


  • ''Export points to a fileBy checking this option it is possible to export the calculated points to a file of :
    • Type'' Excel''. Then just save the file by giving it a name and a location.

Example - Export to an Excel file for the creation of 20 points on a 3D curve with respect to the global reference frame.

By clicking on the icon it allows to reverse the direction (start or end) of the points generation on the selected entities .


    


    • Type "Text". When exporting to a text file, it is possible to select the separator character from the list. The choice is between ",", ";" or "Tabulation". Then just save the file by giving it a name and a location.


 


Example - Export to a text file for the creation of 20 points on a 3D curve with respect to the global reference frame.

By clicking on the icon it allows to reverse the direction (start or end) of the points generation on the selected entities .


 


 


  • ''Coordinate system'' :

By default, the coordinates of the generated points are calculated in relation to the global reference frame of the part (origin). It is possible to select an entity allowing to modify this coordinate system. The elements that can be selected are :

    • A 2D or 3D point of a sketch.
    • The end of a 2D or 3D sketch entity.
    • A summit.
    • A previously created coordinate system.


Example - Export in an Excel file for the creation of 20 points on a 3D curve by selecting, as new coordinate system, the 3D vertex coincident with the 1st point of the curve. The new frame keeps the same orientation (X, Y, Z) as the global frame.

By clicking on the icon it allows to reverse the direction (start or end) of the points generation on the selected entities .


  


Example - Export in a text file for the creation of 20 points on a 3D curve by selecting, as new coordinate system, the 3D vertex coincident with the 1st point of the curve. The new frame keeps the same orientation (X, Y, Z) as the global frame.

By clicking on the icon it allows to reverse the direction (start or end) of the points generation on the selected entities .