Department of Engineering Science and Physics

Project Report

ENS 136

Student Name: ABC

ID Number: 0123

Instructor Name: James Marinello

Date: 15th May 2023

Table of Contents

Introduction to AutoCAD 2016 .................................................................................................................... 3

Introduction to LabVIEW ............................................................................................................................. 3
Lab Work Details .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Lab No 1: Introduc on to LabVIEW ......................................................................................................... 5
Applica on of LabVIEW:........................................................................................................................ 5
Lab No 2: Finding Co-Ordinates and Drawing Stars in AutoCAD............................................................. 6
Finding co-ordinates: ............................................................................................................................ 6
Drawing the stars in AUTOCAD: ............................................................................................................ 6
Lab No: 3 Drawing shapes in AutoCAD .................................................................................................... 6
Lab No 4: Drawing the le ers and numbers AutoCAD. ........................................................................... 7
Hatch command: ................................................................................................................................... 7
Lab No 5: Drawing in AutoCAD. ............................................................................................................... 7
Likes and Dislikes in Labs: ........................................................................................................................... 8
Lab No 6: Ge ng started with LABVIEW. ................................................................................................ 9
Lab No 7: Controls and Block Diagrams ................................................................................................. 10
Lab No 8: Block Diagram ........................................................................................................................ 11
Lab No 9: Debugging and Simple AAP ................................................................................................... 11
Likes and Dislikes ....................................................................................................................................... 12
Likes about LabVIEW: ............................................................................................................................. 12
Dislikes about LabVIEW:......................................................................................................................... 13
Snippets from Labs ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Figure [1]: Finding the Co-ordinates in Lab ......................................................................................... 14
Figure [2]: Drawing Star in Lab ............................................................................................................ 15
Figure [3]: Drawing le ers in Lab. ....................................................................................................... 15
Figure [4]: Drawing in AutoCAD from Lab. .......................................................................................... 16
Figure [5]: Block Diagram from Lab..................................................................................................... 16
Figure [6]: Simple AAP from lab. ......................................................................................................... 17
Figure [7]: Debugging from lab. .......................................................................................................... 17
Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................. 18

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 Introduction to AutoCAD 2016

AutoCAD 2016, developed by Autodesk, is a widely used computer-aided design (CAD) software

that has revolutionized the way professionals in various industries approach design and drafting.

With its comprehensive set of tools and features, AutoCAD 2016 empowers designers, architects,

and engineers to create precise and intricate 2D and 3D models of objects, buildings, and

mechanical designs. The software offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface, allowing users to

easily navigate through its functionalities and access a wide range of drawing and editing tools.

AutoCAD 2016 also provides extensive libraries of pre-built components, enabling users to

efficiently create complex designs by utilizing ready-made objects. Furthermore, the software

supports collaboration by facilitating the sharing and exchange of designs through various file

formats. AutoCAD 2016 has become an indispensable tool in industries such as architecture,

engineering, manufacturing, and construction, enabling professionals to streamline their design

processes, improve accuracy, and bring their ideas to life with exceptional precision.

Introduction to LabVIEW

LabVIEW, developed by National Instruments, is a powerful graphical programming language and

development environment widely used in the field of virtual instrumentation and control systems.

LabVIEW stands for "Laboratory Virtual Instrumentation Engineering Workbench" and is

designed to simplify the process of creating measurement and automation applications.

One of the distinguishing features of LabVIEW is its graphical programming approach, where

users can build applications by connecting functional blocks, known as virtual instruments (VIs),

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together. This visual programming paradigm eliminates the need for traditional coding, making it

accessible to engineers, scientists, and researchers with varying levels of programming experience.

LabVIEW offers a comprehensive set of tools and libraries that enable users to acquire, analyze,

and present data from a wide range of measurement devices and sensors. It provides a user-friendly

interface with a drag-and-drop functionality, allowing users to quickly develop custom

applications for tasks such as data acquisition, control systems, signal processing, and simulation.

The versatility of LabVIEW extends beyond its graphical programming capabilities. It also offers

seamless integration with other programming languages, enabling users to combine the power of

LabVIEW with the flexibility of languages like C/C++, Python, and .NET. This integration

facilitates the development of complex systems and allows users to leverage existing code and

libraries within LabVIEW applications.

LabVIEW has found applications in various fields, including research laboratories, test and

measurement environments, industrial automation, robotics, and academic institutions. Its ability

to rapidly prototype and iterate designs, coupled with its extensive hardware compatibility, makes

LabVIEW an invaluable tool for engineers and scientists seeking to develop innovative solutions

to real-world challenges.

LabVIEW is a powerful graphical programming environment that enables users to develop

measurement, control, and automation applications with its intuitive interface and extensive library

of tools. With its visual programming paradigm and seamless hardware integration, LabVIEW

empowers engineers and scientists to design and implement complex systems, making it a popular

choice for a wide range of applications.

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 Lab Work Details

Lab No 1: Introduc on to LabVIEW

In this lab the given below topics were discussed:

 Basic Overview

 Details of LabVIEW program

 Applications of LabVIEW

 Advantages

 Limitations

Applica on of LabVIEW:

 LabVIEW is used in the aerospace sector for creating and testing avionics, navigation, and

control systems for airplanes.

 LabVIEW is utilized in the automobile sector to create and test automotive systems,

including electric propulsion and engine control systems.

 Power plants and other energy-related systems are monitored and managed using

LabVIEW in the energy sector.

 LabVIEW is used in the telecommunications sector to test and validate telecommunications

networks and systems.

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Lab No 2: Finding Co-Ordinates and Drawing Stars in AutoCAD.

In this lab we were familiarized with given things:

 Drafting space
 Top Ribbon and tabs

We were able to draw co-ordinates and make stars.

Finding co-ordinates:

In AutoCAD, finding the coordinates of an object and determining the center of circles are essential

tasks that enable precise positioning and accurate measurements. AutoCAD provides various tools

and commands to facilitate these operations. To determine the coordinates of an object, users can

utilize the "Properties" panel or the "ID" command.

Drawing the stars in AUTOCAD:

In AutoCAD users can create their own star shape by combining lines and arcs, or by employing

more advanced techniques such as splines and polylines. These flexible methods enable users to

draw stars of varying sizes, proportions, and styles, adding creativity and visual interest to their

designs.

Lab No: 3 Drawing shapes in AutoCAD

In this lab we were able to use the different commands like:

 Trim
 Extend
 Erase
 Hatch
 ANSI 31

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Different shapes with our names and without our names were drawn.

Lab No 4: Drawing the le ers and numbers AutoCAD.

In this lab we were able to draw the letters E,F,L,O,H and 100 with our name initial in AutoCAD.

This task is done using the different commands like:

 Lines
 ANSI31
 Hatch
 Erase
 Circle

Hatch command:
In AutoCAD, the Hatch command is primarily used for filling enclosed areas with patterns, colors,

or textures. While the Hatch command is not specifically designed for writing English letters,

creative users have found ways to utilize it for this purpose. By carefully configuring the settings

of the Hatch command, users can create custom patterns that resemble letters of the English

alphabet.

Lab No 5: Drawing in AutoCAD.

In this lab we were able to draw a hatch shape by using different commands like:

 Hatch
 ANSI31

When drawing in AutoCAD, accurately representing the origin point, often denoted as (0,0,0), is

crucial for proper spatial reference. While AutoCAD does not have a specific command to draw

the origin point directly, it can be depicted using various techniques. One approach involves

creating a hatch pattern using ANSI 31, a predefined hatch pattern available in AutoCAD. By

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selecting the desired area and applying the ANSI 31 hatch pattern, users can create a visually

distinct representation of the origin point. ANSI 31, commonly known as a crosshatch pattern,

consists of intersecting lines that form a grid-like structure.

Likes and Dislikes in Labs:

Many professionals appreciate AutoCAD for its powerful and versatile features. Here are some

aspects that I often like about AutoCAD:

 Extensive Functionality: AutoCAD offers a wide range of tools and features for design,

drafting, and modeling, allowing users to create intricate and precise 2D and 3D designs.

 Industry Standard: AutoCAD has been an industry standard for CAD software for many

years, which makes it familiar to professionals and ensures compatibility across different

organizations and disciplines.

 Customization Options: AutoCAD provides flexibility through customization options,

enabling users to tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows. Users can create

custom commands, tool palettes, and scripts to enhance their productivity.

 Collaboration and Compatibility: AutoCAD supports multiple file formats, facilitating

collaboration with colleagues, clients, and other stakeholders. It allows users to share

designs with ease and work seamlessly with other software tools in the design and

construction ecosystem.

However, there are also a few aspects that I find challenging or dislike about AutoCAD:

 Steep Learning Curve: Due to its extensive functionality and complexity, AutoCAD can

have a steep learning curve, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with CAD

software. It may take time and effort to become proficient in using the software effectively.

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  Price: AutoCAD is a professional-grade software with a corresponding price tag. This can

make it less accessible for individual users or small businesses with budget constraints.

 Performance Issues: In some cases, AutoCAD's performance can be affected by the

complexity of designs, particularly when working with large files or performing resource-

intensive operations. Users with lower-spec hardware may experience slowdowns or lag.

 Software Updates: While software updates are essential for improving functionality and

addressing bugs, some users may find the frequency of updates and compatibility issues

with older versions of AutoCAD disruptive or inconvenient.

It's important to note that opinions about software can vary depending on individual preferences,

experiences, and specific use cases.

Lab No 6: Ge ng started with LABVIEW.

In this lab we were able to:

 Open, run and stop a VI.

 Create a control.
 Change a signal.
 Make block diagram.

LabVIEW also offers several keyboard shortcuts to enhance productivity and streamline workflow.

Here are some commonly used LabVIEW shortcuts:

 Ctrl+R: Run the VI.

 Ctrl+., (Ctrl and period): Stop the execution of a running VI.

 Ctrl+B: Build the application.

 Ctrl+E: Enter the block diagram editing mode.

 Ctrl+F: Find and replace text within the VI.

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  Ctrl+Shift+F: Find and replace text within the project.

 Ctrl+G: Create a subVI by selecting the desired code and pressing the shortcut.

 Ctrl+H: Show or hide the context help window.

 Ctrl+K: Clean up the block diagram, organizing the wires and objects.

 Ctrl+M: Toggle between the front panel and the block diagram.

 Ctrl+S: Save the VI.

 Ctrl+Shift+S: Save all open VIs in the project.

 Ctrl+T: Create a new subVI or terminal.

 Ctrl+U: Show or hide the toolbar.

These shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow and make navigating and using

LabVIEW more efficient.

Lab No 7: Controls and Block Diagrams

In this lab we were able to make:

 Numerical controls and indicators

 Boolean controls and indicators
 Block Diagram

Controls and block diagrams are fundamental components of LabVIEW that enable users to create

interactive and functional graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and design the underlying logic of their

programs.

 Controls: Controls are the user interface elements in LabVIEW that allow users to interact

with the VI. They include buttons, knobs, sliders, text boxes, and other input/output

elements. Controls are placed on the front panel of a VI, where users can interact with them

to provide inputs or view outputs. Users can customize the appearance and behavior of
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 controls, such as setting default values, range limits, or formatting options. By connecting

controls to the block diagram, users can use the input values from controls to drive the

behavior of the program or display calculated results.

 Block Diagrams: The block diagram is the graphical representation of the program's logic

in LabVIEW. It is where users design and implement the functionality of their VIs. The

block diagram consists of a collection of interconnected nodes, each representing a specific

operation or function. Users can drag and drop nodes onto the block diagram, configure

their properties, and connect them together with wires to define the flow of data and control

within the program. The block diagram allows users to implement complex algorithms,

perform calculations, manipulate data, control hardware, and integrate with other software

components.

Lab No 8: Block Diagram

I learned how to change the wavelength on the Temperature Graph by change the number of

Measurements and connecting the wires on the block diagram.

Lab No 9: Debugging and Simple AAP

In this lab we were able to use:

 Help
 Simple AAP
 Debugging

 Help: In LabVIEW, the Help feature is an invaluable resource that provides comprehensive

documentation, guidance, and assistance to users. It offers a wealth of information to help

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 users understand the various features, functions, and tools available in LabVIEW and how

to use them effectively.

 Simple Application Architecture (SAA): Simple Application Architecture is a software

design pattern commonly used in LabVIEW to organize and structure large-scale

applications. SAA promotes modular programming and separation of concerns by dividing

the application into functional modules or subVIs. Each module focuses on performing a

specific task or operation, making the code more modular, readable, and maintainable. SAA

encourages the use of a top-level sVI that acts as the orchestrator, coordinating the

execution flow between different modules. This approach enhances code reusability,

simplifies troubleshooting, and promotes efficient collaboration among multiple

developers.

 Debugging: Debugging is a critical aspect of software development that helps identify and

resolve errors or unexpected behavior in LabVIEW applications. LabVIEW provides

several tools and techniques to assist in the debugging process. Here are some common

debugging features in LabVIEW:

Likes and Dislikes

Likes about LabVIEW:

 Graphical Programming Paradigm: Many users appreciate LabVIEW's graphical

programming paradigm, which allows them to visually represent their code and logic using

a graphical user interface. This visual approach can make programming more intuitive and

accessible, particularly for users who are more comfortable with visual representations than

traditional text-based coding.

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  Extensive Library of Tools and Functions: LabVIEW offers a vast library of pre-built tools,

functions, and drivers that can be utilized for various applications. This extensive library

provides a wide range of capabilities, including data acquisition, signal processing, control

systems, and more, making it easier for users to develop complex applications without

having to start from scratch.

 Integration with Hardware: LabVIEW is well-known for its seamless integration with a

wide range of hardware devices, such as sensors, data acquisition systems, and control

systems. This allows users to easily interface and communicate with different hardware

components, making LabVIEW a popular choice for projects involving measurement and

automation.

 Active Community and Support: LabVIEW has a dedicated and active user community,

which provides forums, resources, and support for users at various skill levels. The

community offers a valuable platform for sharing knowledge, discussing challenges, and

seeking assistance, making it easier for users to learn, troubleshoot, and grow their

LabVIEW skills.

Dislikes about LabVIEW:

 Learning Curve: For some users, especially those who are new to graphical programming

or have a background in text-based programming languages, LabVIEW's learning curve

can be steep. The unique visual programming approach and the need to understand

dataflow can initially pose challenges for users accustomed to traditional coding methods.

 Software Cost: LabVIEW is a professional-grade software tool, and its licensing costs can

be a deterrent for individuals or small organizations with budget constraints. The cost of

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 additional modules and toolkits can also add up, depending on specific project

requirements.

 Performance Considerations: While LabVIEW is a powerful tool, the performance of

LabVIEW applications can be affected by factors such as the complexity of the code, data

processing requirements, and hardware limitations. Careful optimization and consideration

of performance factors may be necessary for resource-intensive applications.

It's important to note that opinions about software can vary depending on individual experiences,

specific use cases, and personal preferences. Different users may have different likes and dislikes

based on their background, requirements, and familiarity with LabVIEW.

Snippets from Labs

The snippet of finding co-ordinates is given below:

Figure [1]: Finding the Co-ordinates in Lab

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Drawing stars in AutoCAD from lab is given below:

Figure [2]: Drawing Star in Lab

The snippet from lab is given in figure below:

Figure [3]: Drawing le ers in Lab.

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The drawing in AutoCAD from lab is given below:

Figure [4]: Drawing in AutoCAD from Lab.

The snippet from lab is given below:

Figure [5]: Block Diagram from Lab.

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The snippet from lab is given below:

Figure [6]: Simple AAP from lab.

The snippet from lab is given below:

Figure [7]: Debugging from lab.

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 Conclusion

In conclusion, both AutoCAD and LabVIEW are powerful software tools that cater to different

domains and serve distinct purposes. AutoCAD is widely used in the field of computer-aided

design and drafting, offering robust capabilities for creating precise and detailed 2D and 3D

drawings. On the other hand, LabVIEW is a versatile programming environment specifically

designed for measurement, control, and automation applications, utilizing a graphical

programming paradigm.

AutoCAD excels in its ability to create complex and accurate designs, providing a comprehensive

set of tools for architects, engineers, and designers to bring their ideas to life. Its features, such as

parametric modeling, 3D visualization, and extensive libraries, contribute to its popularity in the

design industry.

LabVIEW, on the other hand, shines in its intuitive graphical programming interface, making it

accessible to users with varying programming backgrounds. Its focus on data acquisition, analysis,

and control systems empowers users to develop sophisticated measurement and automation

applications efficiently. LabVIEW's extensive library of pre-built functions, hardware integration

capabilities, and active user community further enhance its appeal for engineers, scientists, and

researchers.

As a Student, I don't have personal preferences or opinions. The choice between AutoCAD and

LabVIEW ultimately depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user. Architects and

designers may find AutoCAD more suitable for their design-centric workflows, while engineers

and scientists may gravitate towards LabVIEW for its focus on measurement and control systems.

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Both AutoCAD and LabVIEW have established themselves as industry-leading tools, and their

popularity and extensive user base attest to their effectiveness in their respective domains. The

selection of the preferred program comes down to individual preferences, expertise, and the

specific tasks at hand.

LabVIEW is a versatile programming environment focused on measurement, control, and

automation, while AutoCAD 2016 is a specialized software for computer-aided design and

drafting. LabVIEW utilizes a graphical programming paradigm, allowing users to visually

represent their code, while AutoCAD 2016 focuses on creating precise 2D and 3D drawings using

a comprehensive set of design tools.

LabVIEW excels in its hardware integration capabilities, making it suitable for applications

requiring data acquisition and control systems, whereas AutoCAD 2016 is tailored for architects,

engineers, and designers seeking advanced drafting and modeling functionalities. While LabVIEW

is known for its intuitive interface and extensive library of functions, AutoCAD 2016 offers

powerful parametric modeling, 3D visualization, and comprehensive design documentation

features for architectural and engineering projects.

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