.

com

Manual VARIANT Version 16

Summary

Summary:
1. Introduction 4
2. Creating a new 2DV file 4
3. Fundamental notions 4

3.1 Left menu

3.2 Right menu
3.3 Top menu
3.4 Parameters window
3.5 Insertion window

4. Basic elements 8

4.1 Auxiliary lines

4.2 Text
4.3 Dimensioning

5. Right menu 9

5.1 Undo / Redo

5.2 Add menu
5.2.1 2D Elements
5.2.2 3D Elements
5.2.3 Add plane
5.2.4 Add parameter
5.3 Copy
5.3.1 Duplicate
5.3.2 In another plane
5.4 Modify
5.4.1 Altitude
5.4.2 Additional settings
5.5 Copy

6. Left menu 13

6.1 Window
6.2 Graphic mode
6.3 3D
6.4 Settings
6.4.1 End types
6.4.2 Backup copy
6.4.3 Edit
6.4.4 Ask tiff (image)

2
 Summary

7. Programming 16

7.1 Programming
7.2 Types of parameters
7.2.1 Constant parameter
7.2.2 Variable parameter
7.2.3 Autoparam
7.3 Mathematical functions
7.4 Texts
7.4.1 Constant text
7.4.2 Text with variables
7.4.3 Text with variable numeric values
7.4.4 Text for the display of values while inserting the variant
7.4.5 Text blocking the group and name of a door/window

8. Autoparam 20

8.1 Architectural elements

8.2 Beam Autoparam

3
Introduction

1. Introduction:
Since a major part of the variant functions come from the 2D and 3D modules, this manual refers primarily to manuals
from these two modules. Only the commands which are unique to the variant program are handled in this document.
Also, since the basics of 2D and 3D must be learned in order to use the variant module, the use of the mouse and the
introduction to linear elements for example wont be dealt with in this document.

2. Creating a new 2DV file:

The procedure of creating a new variant file is the same as the one used to create a new 2D or 3D file. In the same
manner, it is possible to select an "init" file containing the drawing preferences, notably with the graphic modes like in
2D.

Init file list

Project name

Fig 1 - Creating a variant file

When creating a variant file, a backup folder will also be created containing the .bak. files. These files function on the
same principle used for a 2D or 3D file.

3. Fundamental notions:

Within the variant, the middle button of the mouse is disactivated. It is not possible to create an arbitrary point in
the plane. All the objects created in the variant must be linked to auxiliary lines. In effect, only the intersections
between these auxiliary lines can be used in order to add lines, quotations, linear elements, etc. .

4
 Fundamental notions

Example : Beam seen from front view

1 2
Intersection points
Y

X
4 3
Surface representing the object Auxiliary lines for the contour

Fig 2 - Creating a beam

3.1. Left menu: 3.2. Right menu:

3.3. Top menu:

5
Fundamental Notions

3.4. Parameter window:

The parameter window allows you to visualize the variables created as well as other information described below
(Figure 6). This one can be edited in part.

Fig 6 - Parameter window

The line wall symbol allows you to choose the cursor symbol when inserting doors and windows.

The 1st column shows the number of parameters. These ones cannot be modified.

The 2nd column shows the names of the parameters. This column can be edited simply by clicking on the cell you wish
to modify using the left button of the mouse.

The 3rd column shows the values attributed to the parameters, or the formulas based on the number of parameters.
This column can be modified. Once the modification is validated, the auxiliary lines are re-drawn.

The 4th column indicates the parameter's unit: a distance, an angle or without any units such as a number of copies
for example.

The 5th column shows the help images attributed to the parameters. The images can be seen on the top right side of
the screen when the mouse is placed on the red check mark. The button with the "..." allows you to choose an image,
the button with the cross allows you to delete it.

The 6th column allows you to define a series of values which can be chosen when the variant is created. Many options
are possible:

If the column is empty: the value found in the formula column will be suggested by default.

A series of values separated by a "+" sign allow you to choose between these values when inserting the variant.
Syntax : 100+200

If this series of values is preceded by a "?" sign, then it will be possible to enter another value on top of the choice
that was suggested during the insertion.
Syntax : ?100+200

It is possible to enter text in the same way.

Syntax : Pine +Fir

6
 Fundamental Notions

3.5. Insert window:

The insert window (Figure 7) appears when you use a variant in the 2D or 3D module (it's posible to use a variant
from a 2D file; slide and drop the variant folder onto the 2D window). This one will appear with the pre-defined
values made when the variant as well as the questions, texts and images were created. When the cursor is placed
onto the various lines, the corresponding images are posted.

Image thumbnail

Fig 7 - insert window

It is possible to modify the defined values by selecting the specific cell wanted. It is equally possible to replace the
cell's values by a measurable value within the 2D or 3D module. To do so, click on the caliper (in the measure column)
and follow the instructions at the bottom of the screen.

Default values can equally be defined within the variant. In order to see these values, it is necessary to click on the
line. An icon from the menu acting similar to the one from the variable text column appears and allows you to choose
a variable (cf. §3.4 6th column).

The symmetry option allows you to situate the variant when inserting in 2D.
Example: When you want to insert a variant from a quarter winded staircase plan view, you can choose its orientation
with this option. The symmetry will be done automatically.

The discretisation angle is 5 degrees by default.The discretisation is only necessary for the volumes added in 3D.
Another value can be used to increase or lessen the number of facets.

The "Last Val." button allows you to re-use all the values used for the last insertion of the same variant.

A clipboard number can be defined when adding a variant in 3D.

Example: When a truss is inserted in 3D by using a variant, a clipboard for the 2D (with a number of your
choice) is automatically created in order to allow this same truss to be inserted with the dimensions and
texts corresponding to the values entered in the window.

7
Basic Elements

4. Basic elements:
4.1. Auxiliary lines:

The auxiliary lines of the variant are identical in 2D and 3D, except in the variant program, they cannot be erased.
They can however be made invisible with the help of the buttons shown below (Figure 8)

Hide straight
Hide point Hide circle

Show all Hide all

Fig 8 - Auxiliary lines

It is equally possible to create new parameters using the auxiliary lines requiring values. These must be preceded by a
"?" sign.

Example : Auxiliary lines with an offset

The program requires :

Distance to the right (or circle) : ?2000
Name of parameter (or question) : Length of bar

Once these entries have been made, and the line placed, it will be possible to maneuver the parameter in the
parameter window (Figure 9) :

Parameter number

Parameter name Default value

Fig 9 - First parameter

4.2. Texts:

The text in the variant module is different from the one used in 2D in that you can show variables. These variables can
either be text or numeric values. See Chapter 7.

8
 Basic Elements

4.3. Dimensions:

Dimensioning in the variant module is done very much like in the 2D module. The difference lies in the fact that you
have to add an auxiliary line at a variable or non-variable distance from the object to be dimensioned (Figure 10). This
line corresponds to the distance between the dimension and the dimensioned object.

2000
Reference point for dimension Distance between
the object and the
dimension
Y

X
Fig 10 - Creating a dimension

5. Right menu:
5.1 Undo/Redo:

See chapter 6.4.2.

5.2. Add menu:

The "Add" menu allows you to add in 2D as well as 3D elements. The menu is therefore divided in two parts (cf.
§5.2.1 & §5.2.2).

The first part serves to define 2D objects such as lines, text, dimensions as well as nodes. These objects are invisible
by default until the variant is inserted in 3D. Please refer to the 2D manual for more details.

The bottom part of the add menu allows you to define objects in 3D. These can be see when the variant is inserted in
2D or in 3D. Please refer to 3D manual for more details on these different objects.

5.2.1. 2D Elements:

The basic information concerning text lines, dimensions

and nodes can be found in the 2D manual in chapter 3.3.
2D objects must be defined using auxiliary lines.
By default, these will only be visible once the variant is
inserted in 2D.
However, it is possible to post objects in 3D by checking
the box "3D Exit" (Modify; Additional settings).

Fig 11 - 2D Elements

9
Right menu
5.2.2. 3D Elements:

The basic information concerning 3D elements here shown

can be found in the 3D manual in chapter 3.3.
Just like 2D objects, objects in 3D must be drawn with
auxiliary lines.
To add a linear element, like in 3D, you must not only
know the object's axis points but also carefully draw its
contour. Once the contour is defined, all that's left is to
define the 3D aspect of the element and the direction of
its axes using two points. If necessary, its name, group
and sub-group can be indicated as well.
The AUTOPARAM bars are described in chapter 8.2.

Fig 12 - 3D Elements

The 3D elements are visible in 2D and 3D by default. It is also possible to choose which elements will be posted in:
Modify, Additional settings, Exit 2D/3D.

5.2.3. Add plane:

The add plane function is specific to the 2D variant program. It allows you to move elements drawn in the variant
work plane into another plane when inserting the variant in a 3D file. The add plane allows the user to define the axes
of rotation to which elements are linked. Once a plane is defined, the function move or copy into another plane must
be used. The result is only visible once the variant is inserted into a 3D file.

Example : Beam with 4 links

1. Traced pieces in the same plane :

2. Add rotation plane :

Define x prime axis : (rotation axis)
1

Fig 13 - Post with 4 braces 2

Reference point :
Attention : All elements are drawn on axis. The HVA 1

function must be set on A. This will avoid having to Angle : 90

modify the altitude of pieces or the plane after. Name : Plane link

Next, both links must be activated. Go to Copy/ Into another plane, and choose the name "Plane link" entered before.
(cf. §5.3.2)

10
 Right menu
5.2.4. Add parameter:

The Add parameter menu allows you to create variables and to use them after. Each time a parameter is created, it is
inscribed in the parameter window. The parameters can thus be used to create auxiliary lines, a formula or even a
text.

Fig 14 - Type of parameter

The Measure function allows you to

measure graphic information such as Fig 15 - Parameter measure
a distance between two points, a
surface, etc. (Figure 15)

5.3. Copy:

Most of the copy functions are similar to the 2D and 3D programs. Only the following functions are unique to the
variant.

5.3.1. Duplicate:

The duplicate function allows you to create a variable number of copies. Note that the copy/copies wont be visible until
the insertion into a 2D or 3D file. Two types of duplication are possible: translation and rotation
(ex:...............................) (ex. : couronne de boulon).

Its possible to make translations using two methods: by vector or by coordinates.The duplication by vector can for
example be used to distribute parts in a stick frame wall.

The coordinates can be used to create a duplication in the 3rd dimension (Z).

Vector : Coordinates :
Designate the first vector point. Start point :
1 X coordinate of 2D point : 0
Y coordinate of 2D point : 0
Z coordinate of 2D point : 0

Arrival point :
X coordinate of 2D point : 0
Designate the second vector point. Y coordinate of 2D point : 0
(distance between the parts). Z coordinate of 2D point : Rafter distance
2
Number of copies : Purlin length / Rafter distance
A

Arrival point (0 ; 0 ; A)

Number of copies :
Start point (0 ; 0 ; 0)
Wall length / stud distance

11
Right menu
5.3.2. In another plane:

Once a plane is defined (cf. §5.2.3), it's possible to copy one or more pieces in another plane. The copies will only be
visible once the variant is inserted in 2D or in 3D.

5.4. Modify:

5.4.1. Altitude:

The 2D objects are logically placed in the plane.

However, for objects in 3D, the 3rd dimension is managed by the altitude of the pieces which corresponds to the Z
dimension in the variant plane. If you add a 3d element it will place itself depening on the HVA settings.

In the case where this function is set to H- Background- one of the surfaces of the plane is placed in the variant plane
(altitude 0) and the other behind this one (altitude-thickness of volume).

When an object is activated, the information concerning this object appears at the bottom right corner of the screen.
Z2 corresponds to the altitude on top and the difference between Z2 and Z1 corresponds to the thickness of the
volume. Attention, this thickness can correspond to the width, height or length depending on the menu selected when
this object was created (respectfully seen from the front view, top view, cut?........).

Cutting plane

Working plane in the Variant

Direction - for Z
Z1

Direction + for thickness

Z2

Position of plane

Fig 16 - Altitude in the variant

12
 Right menu
5.4.2. Additional settings:

When creating a 2D or 3D element, each have specific properties (see Add menu). That is to say that these 2D
elements will only appear in 2D, and the 3D elements will appear in 3D as well as in 2D.

It's possible for a 2D object, a line for example, to appear in 3D. In this case, in additional settings, the 3D Exit box
can be cheked.
For a 3D object, it's possible to remove the checkmark either for 2D or 3D.

5.5. Cut:

The cut function works identical to the 'CUT REMOVE (hard/soft)' function in cadwork 3d.
You must activate an element, and define whether this element gives out or takes the ame format with the help of the
functions.
A temporary auxiliary element can be used as a cutting element (extruder). Once the cut has been made in 3d the
extruder will automatically be deleted.

Note that the cuts are not visualized in the 2DV programme; it's only visible once the variant is loaded into cadwork 2d
or 3d.

As soon as the cuts are defined they can be controlled

using the 'show cut' window (Fig. 17). 1

The 'Show cut' window shows the following info : 2

1. The removal or not of the extruder in 3D.
2. Cut order by line.
3. Number of elements to be cut. 3

The cut order can be modified by dragging the line in the

desired position
By defining a suitable cutting order, a half lap can, for
example, be defined in a variant.

Fig 17 - Cuts

6. Left menu:
6.1. Window:

This function allows you to make the parameter window visible or invisible. The keyboard shortcut for this function is
<W>.

13
Left menu

6.2. Graphic modes:

The Gr Modes can be set and used in the same way as in 2D (cf. §4.14 2D Manual). However, it is possible to directly
load the settings contained in a 2D file, with the help of the middle button of the mouse, click on Mode GR and a
window will open in order to choose the 2D file containing the desired settings.

6.3. 3D:

This button starts the "cadwork 3D viewer. This allows you to have a 3D represenation of the variant. In this manner,
it is possible to verify the positioning of the pieces in space. This mode takes into account any duplication of pieces,
rotations in the planes as well as the texture of the material chosen for the volumes.
Note that cuts will not be shown in the 3d viewer.

6.4. Settings:

6.4.1. : End types

This function allows you to manage the various end types for the variant. This window functions on the same basis as
in the 3D module. It's possible to load the 3D configuration by clicking the button): Load config *.3d. (in the same
menu. This function allows you to load the material parameters as well.

6.4.2. Backup copy

This function opens the cadwork ci-start where you can choose the number and location of security copies.

Backup copies are created whenever the file is saved. The function UNDO/REDO is using backup files in order to
recreate the previous situation. That means that cadwork automatically loads the last backup copy when you apply the
UNDO function.
.

6.4.3. Edit

This function was created in order to translate questions, texts, as well as piece names, groups and sub-groups in
other languages.

14
 Left menu
Other functions are also available in this window:

3
2
1

Fig 18 - Editi

1.The attribution of color to the various lines. This will facilitate the insertion of the variants (cf. §3.5). Select the line
in the "Translation" column, and then choose a color in the "Color of the activated question" menu.

2. Changing the line order. Click on the double arrow to the left of the line to be positioned and then release when the
position is convenient.

3. Edit and modify questions, texts, part names, group- and subgroup names.
The edit window can be used to translate variants in different languages. Note that it is also possible to edit the
questions and texts in the parameter window.

6.4.4. Ask tiff (image):

When the box is checked, the program asks to choose an image for every newly added parameter.

It is also possible to add images once the variante is finished (cf. §3.4 5th colomn).

How to create images for the variant?

Two conditions are necessary in order to create images:

Pictures have to be created in the tiff file format.

The resolution should not exceed. 240x180 pixels.

A specific function of the 2D module allows you to create images rapidly with the right format and size.

Procedure to create the images :

Open the BitmapVER15.1.2d file which is locate in this directory:

\cadwork.dir\cadwork.cat\userprofil\2dv\TiffParam
This file contains examples of help images as well as the procedure to create these images with the right size. The
images have to be imported and exported following this procedure.

15
Programming

7. Programming:
The variant module allows you to rapidly generate objects which by nature are repetitive. The number and type of the
element are known but their geometry varies. This solution is possible because of a sort of macro programming.

The idea is the following: the designer creates a basic plane and defines a parameter for each modifiable value as well
as the content of the question. An image can be linked to the parameter if necessary (cf. §3.4 5th colomn).

7.1. Programming:

For each entry of a modifiable value, a parameter must be created. These parameters can be obtained in different
ways:
In the Add/ Parameters menu (cf. §5.2.4).

By using auxiliary lines as an intermediary: it is imperative to add a question mark before the value when creating a
new variable (cf. §4.1).

By modifying the altitude or the thickness of an element.

A fixed or variable parameter can be inserted. Don't forget to add a "?" before the value in order for it to be variable.
The altitude of these elements can be modified anytime with the help of the Modify/Altitude menu. This altitude can
also be variable as well.

7.2. Parameter types:

7.2.1. Fixed parameter:

Un nombre, il s'agit d'un nombre réel dont la valeur est constante.

7.2.2. Variable parameter:

A number:
Il has to be a real number (cf. §4.1 Example).

The number or name of a parameter:

A parameter can be equivalent to another pre-defined parameter. The number of the parameter is
introduced as variable.

Distance to a straight line : P6

A variable can be composed of various elements: Combinations with variables and mathematical equations
are possible. The rules of algebra must of course be respected.
Distance to a straight line : P4*2+p5/3

16
 Programming
7.2.3. Autoparam:

The AUTOPARAM are reserved for a clearly defined and very specific use. The values for AUTOPARAM are defined by
the architectural module. For more info please see chapter 8 in the 2d manual..

7.3. Mathematical functions:

Every parameter is defined by a value or a formula. The syntax for formulas is the same as used by calculators and
spreadsheet applications (e.g. Excel).

Algebraic operations:
The operations are under the rules of operations priorities, parentheses are valid.

Addition <+> / Subtraction <-> / Multiplication <*> / Division </> / Powers and roots <^> / Factorial <!>

Trigonometric functions:
sin () / cos() / tan ()
asin () / acos () / atan ()
cosh () / sinh ()

Mathematical functions:
exp() -> Exponent
ln() -> Natural Logarithm
log() -> logarithm (to base 10)
abs() -> Absolute value => ABS(-12)=12
sgn() -> Signum function => SGN(-12)=-1 ; SGN(0)=0 ; SGN(12)=1
int() -> Integer => INT(12.8)=12
frac() -> Fraction => FRAC (12.8)=0.8
sqr() -> Square root => SQR(16)=4
constante -> PI(=3.1415...) ; EE(=2.7182...) => Pi*5^ 2

17
Programming

7.4. Texts:

7.4.1. Constant text:

A normal text

7.4.2. Text with variable:

If a text contains a variable at the end of the line you must enter "(#?)" in front of the variable by default, as well as
at the end.
If the variable occupies another position in the text, the syntax remains the same.
Content of text : Material (#?)Pine(#?)
Content of text : (#?)Length :(#?) 120 mm

Numerous variables can make up a text.

Content of text : (#?)Designer(#?) : (#?)John(#?)

If we want to choose between a number of variable texts, the 6th column of the parameters window can be
completed. The variable texts must be separated by a "+" sign just like the numeric variables(cf. §3.4).

7.4.3. Text with variable numeric value:

The variable refers itself to another parameter.

Either a parameter defining a number or a text. This one can introduced in a text created subsequently. To achieve
this, you must write its number after the (#) symbol.

P1 : Parameter with a numeric value of 140 mm

Syntax : Width = (#)P1 mm
Posted result : Width = 140

It's possible to associate them in the same text :

Syntax : Length = (#)P1 mm ; Width = (#)P2 mm
Posted result : Length = 2000 mm ; Width = 80 mm

The numeric values shown in a text can remain locked in a well defined unit of measure. When inserting in 2D,
whichever the unit of measure chosen, the value in the text is posted with the same unit of measure defined in the
variant.

In this example, the parameter P1 has a value of 3,8 m2

Syntax : Surface = (#.# -m)P1 m2
The first # represents the entire part of the number, the # after the "." sign represents the number of decimals
desired.
Result : Surface = 3.8 m2

The available units are the following:

Units for length : -mm, -cm, -m, - in.
Units for angles : -deg, -rad, -grad, -%.

18
 Programming
7.4.4. Text for the display of values while inserting the variant

When inserting a variant, it is sometimes useful to know the value of a parameter resulting from an equation. This text
will be placed in the insertion window in 3D or in 2D.

To do this, you must write a text which begins with : ctrltxtautoparam.

Example : Stickframe wall

Let's say a wall is 12ft long and you have a stud spacing of 16" o.c. You can now use the function ctrltxtautoparam to
find out the number of spaces.

Fist : Add a parameter that describes the number of spaces(=P3).

P1 : Wall length ; P2 : Stud spacing ; P3=P1/P2
Syntaxe : ctrltxtautoparam: Number of spaces: (#)P3
Output displayed: Number of spaces : 8

7.4.5. Text blocking the group name and the name of a door/ window:

For the doors and windows used in the architecture mode in 2D, the group and the name of these elements can be
taken directly from the variant. This prevents you from having to do it in 2D.

atxtutoparam for the names.

btxtautoparam for the groups.

Syntax : atxtautoparam: FEN1 ; FEN2 ; FEN3

btxtautoparam: MUR1 ; MUR2 ; MUR3
Result :

Fig 19 - A/BTXTAUTOPARAM

19
Autoparam

8. Autoparam:

The Autoparam parameters are mainly assigned to doors and windows used in the architectural mode in 2D. In the
variant, these parameters refer to the dimensions of the opening and are used for its conception.

When using this variant in architecture, these parameters are automatically recognized and are associated, for
example, with the width of the opening, the height of the doorstep, etc. They also allow the variant to adapt itself
automatically to the wall thickness.

The 2DV files containing AUTOPARM have to be saved in the folder 'Wall'. That way the windows and door variants
can be loaded with the shortcut <I> (add architecture) in cadwork 2d and 3d.

cadwork.dir/cadwork.cat/param_2D/wall

Here are the different parameters available:

8.1. Architectural elements:

The architectural elements are attributed in the following

manner:

" AUTOPARAM3 " : Thickness wall 1 (A).

C
B
Y
" AUTOPARAM4 " : Distance wall 1- wall 2 (B).

A
X
" AUTOPARAM5 " : Thickness wall 2 (C). Fig 20 - AUTOPARAM1-5

" AUTOPARAM6 " : Radius of circular opening (D).

Les " AUTOPARAM7-9 " spare parameters for future use

A

Fig 21 - AUTOPARAM6

20
 Autoparam
" AUTOPARAM10 " : Altitude door bottom. (E)

" AUTOPARAM11 " : Altitude door top. (F)

" AUTOPARAM12 " : Altitude window bottom. (G)

H
F
" AUTOPARAM13 " : Altitude window top. (H)

G
E
Fig 21 - AUTOPARAM6

There are other types of AUTOPARAM that are displayed when inserting doors and windows in 2D. Default values can
be assigned according to the manufacturers or the usual dimensions.

" AAUTOPARAM " : Opening width.

" BAUTOPARAM " : Opening angle.
" CAUTOPARAM " : Opening height.

Attention: CAUTOPARAM can't be used to design the variant. It's only used to define the default altitude. Use
AUTOPARAM 10-13 to define other altitudes.

8.2. Beam Autoparam

AUTOPARAM-beams can be defined using AUTOPARAM 16, 17 and 18.

AUTOPARAM16 : Beam height
AUTOPARAM17 : Beam width
AUTOPARAM18 : Beam length

When you create this beam, the program automatically places a beam with front view (above or below) with the size
you enter. The beam is placed from the original location.

This beam acts as a reference beam for inserting variables into 3D. All the elements associated with the beam in the
redefined variant will be automatically compared and adjusted to the beam designated 3D.

The elements are oriented relative to the direction of the beam in 3D and designated according to the position of the
AUTOPARAM-beam in the variant.

21