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LANDSCAPE OBJECTS IN SW ?

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andrzej01

Mechanical
Apr 8, 2003
38
It's verry uncommon I guess but is it possible to insert in Sw any kind of landscape representations ( trees , shrubs etc.)?
If that's possible than what kind of obect it would have to be and where can I find some free samples?
I made house assy in SW, works very well but I need some lanscape around it.
Please give me any info on that.
Andrzej
 
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The thumbnails look good so I tried one just for the hell of it. The file I chose was a .dxf. I have never had any luck opening any 3d dxf's. I tried to open as a .3ddxf in 2001Plus and as a .dxf in 2004. In 2001Plus a message saying something about autosolids appears and nothing happens. In 2004, a preview shows up as if the file will be a wireframe, than appears blank. Anyone have any insight? I was able to open similar files in a trial version of Rhino a couple of years ago but was never able to successfully bring them into SolidWorks.
 
Unfortanutely most of the free stuff you will find on the web is not readable by SolidWorks. If we all got together and bombarded SolidWorks and our VARS with this as an enhancement request that may change. Try There are some plants there you might be able to modify to fit your needs.
 
Regardless of the quality and availability of existing data. There are some other overriding ssues. Programs like SW are not really intended for Landscaping work. Custom Landscaping software works much better (and is generally much less expensive). They work in two different realms. 3D and 2D. Each object has 3D and simple symbolic planform 2D representations. The problem with trying to use a Solid Modeller CAD system like SW for this is that even when you make a 3D model of, say a tree, when you try to put in on a drawing it is tough. The drawing is going to give you a hidden line picture of the actual 3D model. For vertical profiles this is bad enough, but for plan forms it is hideously difficult. You don't get the nice standarized landscape symbols. SolidWorks' mission is engineering CAD, not architectural or landscaping. These have totally different object based principles. For example an architectural CAD system understands what a wall is. From a simple single line plan it can figure out the contruction of the wall based on building codes and the type of space on each side (occupied/mechanical/outdoors, etc). It will then produce a complete BOM and even cut lists. It knows that doors have to make a hole in the wall, so it does so automatically and adjust the BOMs etc. instantly. Using a solid modeller CAD system you have to create the solid wall, cut your own holes, insert models of doors, etc. If you want the studs, etc.... well that a real pain. I seriously doubt that SW will ever make any enhancements for the sake or these applications - in fact I would put money on it. I have done some very simple modelling at home for home projects, but that is as far as I would go.

Be naughty - save Santa a trip.
 
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