Gas-Liquid Heat,,Waste Heat Recovery,Tank Heating,Heating System,air heater Xinbai Plating(jiangsu) Intelligent Technology Co.,Ltd , https://www.hotgalvanizing.com
Application of ActiveX Technology in Tool CAD
**Summary:**
By leveraging ActiveX technology, AutoCAD objects can be directly manipulated from other applications, enabling a seamless integration between calculation and drawing programs. This approach replaces the traditional method of linking these programs through data files, commonly used in secondary languages like AutoLISP and ADS. The new connection model significantly improves efficiency, usability, and automation.
**1. Introduction**
In traditional tool CAD systems, applications were often developed using AutoLISP or ADS under AutoCAD R14. Since tool design involves both parameter calculations and graphical representation, these tasks were usually handled separately to improve computational speed. A data file was then used to bridge the gap between the calculation and drawing programs. After the parameters were calculated and verified, they were exported to a file, and the drawing program would read the data line by line to generate the corresponding graphics.
This traditional method, while functional, had several drawbacks. It required complex data handling, strict operation sequences, and resulted in slow performance and low automation.
With the introduction of ActiveX technology in AutoCAD 2000 and later versions, it became possible to integrate the calculation and drawing processes directly without relying on intermediate data files. This new approach not only speeds up the process but also enhances user experience and automation levels.
**2. Introduction to ActiveX Technology**
ActiveX is a set of technologies based on the Component Object Model (COM), allowing developers to create reusable software components. These components, known as ActiveX controls, can be embedded into various applications such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, Visual Basic, Visual C++, and Delphi.
AutoCAD ActiveX is an application of this technology within AutoCAD. It allows external programs to control AutoCAD objects, making it possible to manipulate drawings directly from other environments. The AutoCAD ActiveX object model is shown below.
**3. Manipulating AutoCAD Objects in VB**
Using ActiveX, developers can work with AutoCAD objects in a way similar to other programming objects. The process typically involves assigning an object reference to a variable and then using its methods, properties, and events.
To do this in Visual Basic (VB), you first need to reference the AutoCAD type library. This is done by selecting **References** from the **Project** menu and choosing the appropriate AutoCAD library, such as "AutoCAD 2000 Object Library."
Once the library is referenced, you can create and manipulate AutoCAD objects directly in your VB code. This includes working with AutoCAD documents, entities, and other drawing elements.
**4. Application Example**
A typical example is the complex tool CAD system developed at Quzhou University. Built using VB and ActiveX technology, it successfully integrates calculation and drawing functions.
After entering the necessary parameters and selecting the calculation option, the system automatically performs the required computations. If the results are acceptable, the drawing can be generated by selecting the drawing option.
The interface of the tool CAD system is shown below.
Here’s a sample code snippet that demonstrates how the system connects with AutoCAD and generates the tool graphic entity:
This approach ensures a more efficient, integrated, and automated workflow for tool design and drafting.