Soficad 162-163 e

SOFiCAD
Copyright
SOFiSTiK AG, D-90419 Nürnberg, 1990-2003
This manual is protected by copy right. No part thereof may be distributed, cop-
ied, translated, changed, or paraphrased in any way without the prior approval of
the SOFiSTiK AG. SOFiSTiK AG reserves all rights to edit or to change the con-
tents of this publication at any time.
SOFiSTiK assures that the manuals and the programs are engineered to the
best of our knowledge; however we do not assume liability that neither the man-
ual nor the programs are free of errors. Errors or deficiencies are usually cor-
rected once we got to know of them.
The user remains responsible for his matter of use. He has to conduct spot
checks in order to proof the correctness of the analysis.
Trademark:
Windows, Windows 2000 Windows XP Home and Windows XP Professional are
registered trademarks of Microsoft.
AutoCAD is a registered trademark of the Autodesk, Inc.
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD are registered trademarks of the SOFiSTiK AG.
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD General information
Content
SOFiSTiK ............................................................Fehler! Textmarke nicht definiert.
General information......................................................................................10
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD..........................................................................10

Hotline......................................................................................................10
SOFiSTiK in the Internet...........................................................................12
Hotline and Updates.............................................................................13
Examples.............................................................................................14
Forum ..................................................................................................15
Trainings..............................................................................................16
Installation ....................................................................................................17
Requirements...........................................................................................17
Installing SOFiCAD ..................................................................................19
Starting the Installation Routine............................................................20
License Agreement ..............................................................................23
Select AutoCAD Profile ........................................................................24
Select Working Directory......................................................................26
Authorization File .................................................................................27
Installation Type...................................................................................29
Installation User ...................................................................................30
Select Program Folder .........................................................................32
Confirming the Installation Configurations ............................................33
SETUP.TXT .........................................................................................33
InstallShield Copies the Files ...............................................................35
Installation of the Hardlock Driver.........................................................36
InstallShield completed ........................................................................36
Change/Repair/Remove Installation .....................................................37
Network Hardlock .....................................................................................39
Installation............................................................................................39
Unblocking Licenses............................................................................40
Checking the Hardlock .............................................................................40
NAME.NAM..............................................................................................42
ServicePacks ...........................................................................................45
Starting SOFiCAD .........................................................................................47
General Functionalities (Features) .................................................................49
AutoCAD..................................................................................................49
Layouts (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ................................49
DesignCenter (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) .......................50
Property Dialogue (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help).................54
Grips (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ....................................55
Mouse wheel (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ........................56
Purge (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ...................................59
Layer (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ....................................61
Object Snaps (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)........................63
Object Snap Tracking (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) ...........64
Plotting (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) .................................66
Multiple Document (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help)................67
Saving files (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) ...........................68
Use Windows Cut, Copy, and Paste (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-
Help)....................................................................................................69
Variables (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help) ..............................71
Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)......................75
SOFiCAD .................................................................................................76
Version Number...................................................................................76
AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.3.........................................................77
AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.2.........................................................78
Recovering Plans.................................................................................79
Doubble Click ......................................................................................80
SOFiMACH..........................................................................................81
Diagnosis.............................................................................................82
Relative Point Entry..............................................................................85
Construction / Design ...................................................................................86
Functionality (Features)............................................................................86
Dimension............................................................................................87
Position Plans ......................................................................................87
Stairs ...................................................................................................88
Edit Functions ......................................................................................88
Catalogues...........................................................................................88
Drawing Commands.............................................................................89
Pens ....................................................................................................90
Working Method .......................................................................................90
Command Reference ...............................................................................96
Plan Management........................................................................................101
Functionality ...........................................................................................101
Work Method..........................................................................................102
Comand reference..................................................................................103
Reinforcement.............................................................................................105
Functionalities (Features) .......................................................................105

Possibilities / Options .............................................................................106
General..............................................................................................106
Steel bars...........................................................................................107
Meshes ..............................................................................................110
Working Method .....................................................................................112
Command Reference .............................................................................113
Steel List .....................................................................................................117
Functionality ...........................................................................................117
Working Method .....................................................................................117
Foundations ................................................................................................119
Functionality ...........................................................................................119
Working Method ..................................................................................... 119

RoSy ........................................................................................................... 121
Functionality........................................................................................... 122
Options .................................................................................................. 122
Working Method ..................................................................................... 123
BAMTEC ..................................................................................................... 125
Functionality........................................................................................... 126
WorkingMethod ...................................................................................... 129
Command Reference ............................................................................. 131
Alignment ................................................................................................... 132
Target User............................................................................................ 132

Steel Design ................................................................................................ 138
Functionality........................................................................................... 138
Possibilities ............................................................................................ 138
Working Method ..................................................................................... 140
Mass Determination.................................................................................... 144
Functionality........................................................................................... 144
Working Method ..................................................................................... 144
VBA ............................................................................................................ 148
Index ..............................................................................................................1
General information SOFiCAD
The program SOFiCAD is a product of

SOFiSTiK AG, Burgschmietstrasse 40, D-90419 Nürnberg
Tel. +49 911 399010

Tel. Hotline +49 911 399010
Email: info@sofistik.com
Homepage: www.sofistik.com
SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 9 of 157

General information
This manual is thought as a general overview of SOFiCAD. It contents general

information, installation instructions and a brief overview of the different modules
and functionalities.
This manual describes the functionalities of the version SOFiCAD 16.2/16.3, but
it can also be used with later releases.
SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD
SOFiSTiK AG develops and distributes Software for engineers, especially em-

phasizing on constructive engineering.
The software has been developed under a unified concept which allows its user
to get fast to a solution, without having to overcome unnecessary obstacles.
With the different SOFiCAD modules you have a comfortable compliment to
AutoCAD, in order to generate formwork drawings, reinforcement plans, steel
lists, steel construction drawings, setting out plans, mass determination, and
analysis of planar slabs.
A distinguished feature of the software is just this modular system and the possi-
ble flexibility for your working method. When working with SOFiCAD, you also
have any option you know from working with AutoCAD.
This manual is though as giving you a good idea and basic instructions of how to
efficiently work with SOFiCAD and AutoCAD – besides the general information
such as installation routines and operations of the program.
Hotline
If you have any questions you can reach the SOFiCAD hotline using different
methods. For any query, please let us know your customer reference number
and your SOFiCAD version number. Please check the chapter for a detailed
description of how to find out your exact SOFiCAD version number Version
Number on page 76.
By Phone
The hotline can be reached by phone + 49 911 399010 at the following hours: :
Monday through Thursday 09.00 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 17.00 hrs
Friday 09.00 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 16.00 hrs

We will make a note of your problem and refer you to the corresponding special-
ist. Please have your customer reference as well as your SOFiCAD version
number at hand.
E-Mail
Please send an Email, decribing your problem to soficad@sofistik.de.
Please include your name, client reference number, your SOFiCAD version
number and a telephone number fort he case that we have further questions.
It is also easier for us to solve your problem, if your mail includes the file in the
case of drawing specific problems.
Fax
Please send us a fax with a thourough description of your problem (you could
also include a sketch) to the following fax number: +49 89-31 58 78-77.
In this case, also do not forget to include your customer reference number and
your SOFiCAD version number, as well as a Telefone number for questions.

SOFiSTiK in the Internet
The internet pages of the SOFiTiK AG (www.sofistik.com ) offer substantial help

for common questions and problems.

Hotline and Updates

Following the link Support you can find the SOFiSTiK hotline phone- and fax
numbers as well as the email addresses of the hotline. A hotline query can di-
rectly be started from the internet page via email – please check also the chapter
Hotline on page 10.
In the case that you choose to use the interent for to start a hotline query, please
have any relevant information such as operating system, AutoCAD version etc.
ready. With the information we can save time and answer quicker to your ques-
tions.
Furthermore you can download the current program versions, Service Packs and
Freeware .

Examples
Following the link Library users and interested people have the possibility to
browse trough interesting examples which the SOFiSTiK product portfolio has to
offer. Furthermore here you can also find manuals, Online-Helps and other in-
formation.

Forum
Following the link Forum user and interested people have the option to ex-
change their experiences with other users.Here, we or other users often pubish
tipps and tricks for using SOFiCAD.
Registration
• Select the option Register

• Enter a user name and your Email address
• Confirm the entries with the button Register
• Upon the registration you will receive an Email to the entered
address with your access data
• With the received user name and password you can now
access the forum and publish your comments

• Via the link profil, you can change your profil at any time (i.e.
the password)
Trainings
Following the link Schulung you can find dates, contents and pricing for SOFi-
CAD trainings. We offer the trainings at either of our locations in Nuremberg or
Oberschleissheim as well as at your premises.
If you have further questions regarding trainings, please contact
akademie@sofistik.de

Installation SOFiCAD
Installation
In the following chapter we explain the requirements for as well as the necessary
steps during installation. We also explain any relevant information in that content.
Please read this chapter carefully!
Requirements
In order to install SOFiCAD, you must first meet the operating system require-
ments described in the AutoCAD manual. Additionally you need 100MB free
space in order to install SOFiCAD on your hard drive.
Tree-structure of the Program Directories
SOFiCAD can be installed into any directory.
Every project can receive a proper directory for the drawings.
Installation and Configuration of AutoCAD
The correct installation and configuration of AutoCAD are required in order to

install SOFiCAD. For the proper AutoCAD installation, please check the Auto-
CAD installation manual.
Before starting the SOFiCAD installation routine, please thouroughly check,
if AutoCAD is working properly. Also display units (Tablet, Mouse), printer,
plotter, monitors, etc. should already be configured. The function of printers
and or plotters can be checked using the AutoCAD demo-drawings.
User Name
AutoCAD administeres any configuration user specific except the ones saved in
the drawing and the configurations of display units. Setup might change these
user specific data, so that you are able to start working with SOFiCAD inmedi-
ately after installation. The requirement for the proper functionality is that the
same user is loged on the system when configuring AutoCAD, installing, and
working with SOFiCAD.
Hardlock Driver
If you install SOFiCAD for the first time on your computer or if you install an up-
date, you must own the Windows NT Administrator rights, as the Hardlock driver
will be installed. (See Installation of the Hardlock Driver Page 36 ).
If you add new modules to an existing version, or re-install a version, administra-
tor rights are not required.

Without the Administrator rights, Setup cannot check, whether a new hard-
lock driver needs to be intalled .
System Administrator - Version 16.2
If you are system administrator and install SOFiCAD for other uers and the
system environment should be identical for any user, you have to go through the
following steps:
Installation on a Desktop for various users
After installing SOFiCAD, please export using Option -> Profile the AutoCAD
profile selected for the use of SOFiCAD. Give the users access to the by SETUP
automatically generated program directory. Before starting, every SOFiCAD user
needs to import the exported profile.
System Administrator version 16.3
The installation von SOFiCAD 2004 Version 16.3 is carried out just like AutoCAD
2004 in two steps:
1. The first part of the installation requires administrator rights-
files will be installed into the program directory of the com-
puter, entries in the registry part “Local Machine” will be writ-
ten and links and shortcuts to SOFiCAD will be configured.
During the SOFiCAD installation the installation of the hard-
lock driver will be started. If it’s already present, this installla-
tion can be “stopped” and “end Setup” can be skipped.
2. The second part automatically follows when AutoCAD or
SOFiCAD is started by the used for the first time. Now, the
user specific data will be copied in the user directory and en-
ties will be made in the registry part “CurrentUser”.The
AutoCAD profile will be extended with the corresponding
paths.
SOFiCAD is installed for the last used Autodek product (AutoCAD or ADT).
Copy Protection
The SOFiCAD copy protection contains a Hardlock and the authorizing file
NAME.NAM which again contains the authorization of any acquired module.
The SOFiCAD hardlock has to be connected directly to the computer at the
parallel interface, which means before the printer cable is connected to the hard-
lock. Should this not be done as decribed, the hardlock query can create prob-
lems when starting the program.

Some printers have to be turned on, in order for the copy protection to work
correctly.
As alternative hardlocks we also offer PCMCIA cards for Laptops and USB-
interface hardlocks .
ObjectEnabler for SOFiCAD 2004 Version 16.3 and SOFiCAD 2002 Version 16.2
Should SOFiCAD drawings (DWGs) be viewed or plotted correctly from/at work

stations without SOFiCAD or in programs such as AutoCAD LT or Volo View,
Object Enabler is required. These are files with the ending .CBX which have to
be installed in the directoy c:\programme\comon files\AutoDesk Shared.
The names of the SOFiCAD object enable contain the module name, version
number and the ending .dbx.
Examples: sofibase162.dbx, soficadb163.dbx, etc.
The ObjectEnable for SOFiCAD 2004 version 16.3 is required for AutoCAD
2004.
The ObjectEnable for SOFiCAD 2002 version 16.2 is required for AutoCAD
2002.
Server-/ Workstation-installation
You can find the description for server and work station installation in the
server_readme.txt. The installation are not carried out via the installation assis-
tant InstallShield® Wizard, but through proper routines.
Installing SOFiCAD
SOFiCAD will be installed with the help of the installation assistant by Install-
Shield® Wizard. You can leave the installation from almost any window by press-
ing Exit. The installation can be started at a later point of time again.
Please check in the section Requirements the described prerequisites,
before you start the SOFiCAD installation process and carefully read the
comments in the README.TXT. The following is written correspondingly to
the installation routine of the SOFiCAD version 16.3. The installation of
SOFiCAD 16.2 is mostly the same.
Starting the Installation Routine

Plese carry out the following steps in order to install SOFiCAD on your computer.

• Before starting the installation, please close any running ap-

plications.
• Insert the CD of the new SOFiCAD version into your CD
drive.
• The following window will appear automatically:
• Select the link ... to SOFiCAD – Continue here (eng.)

• The following window opens:
• To start the installation, select in the menue “install” SOFi-

CAD 16.2/16.3.
• From the appearing dialogue window, select the language in
which you would like to install SOFiCAD 16.2/16.3
Setup now prepares the InstallShield Wizard for the SOFiCAD installation. Sub-
sequently the following dialogue window appears:

• Select Next>, in order to proceed with the installation

License Agreement
In the following dialogue window, the license agreement will appear. It contains
important information for your license agreement. You have to accept the
agreement.
• Carefully read the entire General Terms of Delivery of the

SOFiSTiK AG.
• Should you accept them, please activate the field “I accept
the terms of the license agreement” and select Continue in
order to proceed with the intallation routine.
If you decline the terms of the license agreement, select EXIT in order to
exit the installation. You can conduct the installation at any later point.

Select AutoCAD Profile

Existing profile
In the following dialogue window, any user profiles defined in AutoCAD will be
shown .
If you would like to install more than one SOFiCAD version on your com-
puter, you must use a proper profile for every version in a proper directory. If
you install an update, where you replace an older version with the newer
one, you can continue using the old profiles.
• Select the profile, which you would like to use with the
SOFiCAD version to be installed.
• Select Continue to proceed with the installation.
New Profiles
In the following dialogue window any defined AutoCAD user profiles will be
shown:
If you would like to install more than one SOFiCAD version on your com-
puter, you’ll have to use for every version a proper profile and an own direc-
tory. If you install an update whereby you replace an existing version with a
newer one, you can continue using the existing profile.

• If you would like to configure a new profile , select the option

New Profile.
• Select Next> to proceed with the installation.
• In the now appearing window, enter the desired name for the
new profile.
• Select Next>, to proceed with the installation.

Select Working Directory

In the following window, select the working directory:
• Select the directory, which you would like to configure as

working directoy. It makes sense to select the project direc-
tory.

Authorization File
Select the path for the authorization file
Sub-sequently the following dialogue window appears:
• Select Browse... and select the folder with the authorization

file NAME.NAM.
Usually the authorization file NAME.NAM can be found on the authorization
disc (floppy disk), which you’ve received with this or a prior SOFiCAD-
version. In the case of an update, you might be able to continue using the
authorization file in the installation directory.
If you add further modules to an already installed version, you can only continue
using the authorization file, if you have access to the module to be installed and if
it’s written in the authorization file.
If you would like to install SOFiCAD parrallel to an already installed version, you
can select the folder of the already installed version, if the authorizations file
grants you access to any of the modules that should be installed.
Several Authorization Files were found
If you have acquired different licenses and you therefore have different hard-
locks, you’ll find several authorization files on the authorization disk (or floppy)
(NAME.1, NAME.2 etc.). In this case, the following dialogue window apears:

• Select the authorization file, matching the hardlock in this

computer.
• Choose Next> to proceed with the installation.

Installation Type
If a NAME.NAM was found in the directory for the authorization file, the following
dialogue window appears. Pease select the desired installation type.
• Carefully review and select the desired installation type.

• Choose Next>, to proceed with the installation.
Type 1 - Standard The installation type Standard installs SOFiCAD with
most current options. The modules that should be in-
stalled will automatically be determined from the
NAME.NAM file and installed in the installation direc-
tory C:\PROGRAMME\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3. The
installation path can be changed!
The installation jumps to Confirming the Installation
Configurations Seite 33 .
Typ 2 - User The installation type User is only recommended for

advanced SOFiCAD users. With this installation type,
the user can enter the installation path and thereby i.e.
install or un-install single modules. Furthermore you
can choose to install modules independently of the
activated (unlocked) NAME.NAM.
Installation User
With Authorization File
If you’ve selected the installation type User the following dialogue window ap-
pears:

List of the feature From the list, select the module you would likt to install.
installation In the right column, the selected feature will be de-
scribed in brief and the required disk space will be
shown.
Install to: Select Change… and select the desired forlder, if you
do not wish to install SOFiCAD in the default foulder.
Disk space With this option you’ll receive an overview of the free
and required disk space.
Installation without Authorization File
If an authorization file cannot be found in the selected folder the dialogue window
for the “Customized installation” appears:

• Proceed as described in Installation User.

• Select Next>, if you would like to proceed with the installa-
tion without an authorization file. Before you start SOFiCAD,
the authorization file must be copied into the installation di-
rectory.
Select Back, if you would like to choose an other directory for the authoriza-
tion file. (This is only required for the very first installation!)

Select Program Folder

Sub-sequently the following window appears:
• If you don’t wish to install the program symbols into the de-
fault folder, enter the new folder name or select an existing
folder from the list.
• Choose Next> to proceed with the installation.

Confirming the Installation Configurations

The installation has enough information to start to copy the data. Your configura-
tions you’ve choosen are displayed in the following dialogue window:
• Carefully review and check the configurations.

• Select Next>, to start copying the files.
If you choose to change the configurations, select Back> until you reach the
dialogue window, where you can change your configurations. Sub-
sequentially select Next> to proceed with the installation. The selected con-
figurations are already entered in the single dialogue windows.
SETUP.TXT
In the following dialogue window, the file SET.TXT appears. The file contains
important information to install SOFiCAD.
• Carefully review and read the information.

• If you’ve met every requirement, select to proceed with the

installation.
If you haven’t met every requirement, please select Exit to exit the istalla-
tion. You can conduct the installation procedure at a later time.

InstallShield Copies the Files

InstallShield now copies the relevant files for the modules, inserts entries to start
SOFiCAD and to call the Help files in the startup menu and it installs the hardlock
driver for the copy protection.
In order to install the hardlock driver, administrator rights are required for
the computer. If you do not have the administrator rights, the administrator
can install the hardlock driver sub-sequently.
If you should incure troubles with the drivers for third party software, which also
use FAST hardlock drivers - you can also install hardlock drivers manually.
If you’ve selected the module Mass Determination, Direct Access Objects
(DAO) will automativally be installed. During the installation of DAO an Eng-
lish dialogue box appears due to technical reasons. Select Next, and don’t
exit the installation – otherwise, SOFiCAD will not be installed correctly.

Installation of the Hardlock Driver

Sub-sequently to the installation of the SOFiSTiK program files, the installation of
the hardlock driver will be started. Administrator rights are required!
• Select Next>, to continue the installation.

After the successful installation of the hardlock driver, return to the SOFiCAD
installation.
InstallShield completed
The following dialogue windo appears:
SOFiCAD has been installed on your computer.

Carefully read the file README.TXT, it contains important information about
SOFiCAD.
• Select Finish (Complete), to complete the installation.

Change/Repair/Remove Installation
General
Start the installation routine again.
• Select Next>, to continue the installation.
• Select the desired option: Change program, Repair program,

Remove program.
• Select Next>, to proceed the installation.
Change program
With the option change program, you can install additional features. You can
change the type of feature installation in the dialogue window.

Please, do not remove the programs module by module, but uninstall the
entire program completely!
Repair Program
With this option, you can repair damaged files, shortcuts and registry entries.
Remove Program
With the option “Remove SOFiCAD 16.3 from this computer”, the de-installation
procedure will start.
Prior to de-installation, you will be asked to confirm the de-installation.
• Select Remove, to proceed with uninstalling.

The following window appears, once the procedure is com-
pleted:
• Select Finish (complete), to exit the InstallShield.
Network Hardlock
Additionally to the option installing the version in the network, we also offer the
option to work with a network hardlock. It means that one hardlock will be
mounted and installed on a server and that the single work station query licenses
from there. For this procedure, a special NAME.NAM is required. Please ask our
order processing department which you can reach via Email at auf-
trag@sofistik.de.
Installation
The network hardlock version works in networks with IPX-Protocols (Novell),
Netbios or TCP/IP. However we strongly recommend using exclusively TCP/IP.
In order to install it, the HL-SERVER needs to be installed and/or mounted on a
server or a not frequently used, but permanently operating PC in the network
(Print- or Mail Server).
On the CD you’ll find a directory \hardlock\hlserver. The current installation can
be found in the README and PDF files in this same directory.
Start on the computer with the hardlock server the hl-Server-Service (and only on
this computer!!):
1. Install AKSMON32.EXE
2. Start the Aladdin AKS Monitor
3. Select the computer marked as "local"
4. Enter the module address 30658 and press ADD
5. Click the green traffic light to start the service

In order o find a HL-server via IPX from other segments, the SAP Agent must be
active (control panel -> network -> Software -> SAP -> Agent).
The Windows 95 Server-application will directly be started with:

• HLS32 -m:30658
For the clients the search order of the protocols and the IP-addresses has to be
entered. Several environmet variables are available for this task:
• set HL_SEARCH=IP,IPX,portadresse
• set HLS_IPADDR=_
Please consider that some software vendors simply set such registries without
asking back and they therefore could deactivate a locale hardlock.
Unblocking Licenses
In the case of a program crash logins might remain in the network hardlock. They
can either be removed with the AKS-Monitor from any work station or they can
be removed from the workstation in batch operation with the following command:
hlogout 30658
It might be usefull to take the commany into a startup-skript (AUTOEXEC.BAT).
Checking the Hardlock
Local Hardlock
In the sub-directory of your SOFiCAD installation you can find the file
HLINFO.EXE. Start it with a double click.
The following dialogue window appears:

Hrer you can see the numers of any hardlock that was found .
The hardlock number must match the NAME.NAM. Please read the comments in
the corresponding chapter NAME.NAM .
Further you can find out your client reference number here. You need it, every
time you make a query to our hotline.
Network Hardlock
In order to check the network hardlock you first have to open a DOS-Window.
Now change into the sub-directory of your SOFiCAD installation. Start the pro-
gram HLINFO with the option /N by entering HLINFO.EXE /N (the Option /N
starts the search for the network hardlock).
The following dialogue window appears:

The addition remote shows, that the found hardlock is in the network – for the
example hardlock four logins are registered.
NAME.NAM
The NAME.NAM in SOFiCAD serves as authorization file. In this file, the

authorizations
zations andand
the
the
hardlock
hardlock
number
number
are
are
registered.
registered.
NEVER change the NAME.NAM file! The stored coding will be lost and the
file will be unvalid.
1. Line
NAME.NAM for local hardlock
The first line contains the year in which the NAME.NAM was generated (in this
case 2002), the hardlock number (here: 20m), the client reference number (here:
9998).
2002 0611 000000020m000009998 000000000 000000000 0000 0196

<
Network NAME.NAM
In this case the hardlick number is encrypted: for the hardlock 100 we have the
number 9932m (for Hardlock 101 it would be 9933m etc.).
2002 0611 000009932m000009998 099:01164 000000000 0000 0196

<

Time Limited NAME.NAM

The first line of the time limited NAME.NAM is not different from the general one.
Modules
NAME.NAM for Local Hardlock
The following lines contain the authorizations for the modules, which you are
allowed to use. Further more you can also find the year of authorization.
2002NN001 SOF+ M2D M3D SOFQ SLAB SOFX SLAX XXXX WIND WINS
<
2002NN001 SOFI SOFB STLI STL1 ROSY BAMT SOFP SOFS SOFV SOFF
<
2002NN001 SOFA SOFW SOFM SOFU SOU1 SOUE SOUP XXXX XXXX XXXX
<
Network NAME.NAM
The amount of the authorizations of single modules can be found in the number
following NN. The amount does not have to be unitary..
2002NN024 SOF+ M2D M3D SOFQ SLAB SOFX SLAX XXXX WIND WINS
<
2002NN024 SOFI SOFB STLI STL1 ROSY BAMT SOFP SOFS SOFV SOFF
<
2002NN024 SOFA SOFW SOFM SOFU SOU1 SOUE SOUP BFES XXXX XXXX
<
Time Limited NAME.NAM
A time limited NAME.NAM can be recognized by the signs inbetween the differ-
ent modules. They show the encrypted time frame of the authorization.
2002NN001 SOF+QM2D QM3D QSOFQQSLABQXXXX XXXX XXXX

WINDQWINSQ<
2002NN001
SOFIQSOFBQSTLIQSTL1QROSYQBAMTQSOFPQSOFSQSOFVQSOFMQ<
2002NN001 SOFAQSOFWQSOFFQXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX
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Address
Following you can find your office address in the NAME.NAM . It appears i.e. in
the steel list.
SOFiSTiK AG Niederlassung Nürnberg

< <
SOFiSTiK AG Burgschmietstr. 40 90419 Nürnberg
<<<<<<<<<<<<< 48 <
SOFiSTiK AG * 90419 Nürnberg
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< 40 <
SOFiSTiK AG * Burgschmietstraße 40 * 90419 Nürnberg
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ServicePacks
Where can I find ServicePacks?
Updated (actualized) versions of the current SOFiCAD can be found in the inter-
net on an irregular basis. You can find the actualized files following the link Ser-
vicePacks for SOFiCAD .
How can I install ServiePacks?
The extracting of the ZIP-files must be conducted with "Path indication” – the
reason being that the language-depending files will be extracted in the sub-
directories German or English.
If this is not done, it might happen, that the last installed language depending
files, as they have the same names, overwrite the earlier installed files.

The automatical extracting with path indication will be conducted automatically, if

you double click the downloaded EXE-files. Now you only have to select the
directory of your SOFiCAD-installation.
How do I find out about new features?
Should there be new ServicePacks available, we post an entry in the Forum,

Topic "CAD SOFiCAD" in the area "Neuigkeiten von SOFiSTiK, SOFiCAD und
Statik". If you are registered in the Forum, you can subscribe to the article and
you will then automatically be notified per Email if anything concerning this mat-
ter is posted.
You can find the Forum following the link www.sofistik.de/Forum .
You can find a guide of how to register in the Forum in the chapter
Registrationation on page 15.
If you are logged in the Forum, go to the area “Neuigkeiten von SOFiSTiK, SOFi-
CAD und Statik” in the article CAD SOFiCAD. At the chapter headline you can
find the comment / button "Dieses Thema abonnieren" (subscribe this topic). If
you chose to do that, you’ll automatically receive an Email, if a new article was
posted. It always happens, if a new ServicePacks are released.

Starting SOFiCAD SOFiCAD
Starting SOFiCAD
In the following chapter, you will learn how to start SOFiCAD, once the installa-
tion is completed. Furthermore we describe how you can customize the auto-
matically generated short cuts to start SOFiCAD, i.e. using a different working
directory.
Starting SOFiCAD
Icon
The SOFiCAD installation automatically generates a SOFiCAD shortcut on your
desktop to start the program. The following picture shows what it looks like:
When you double-click the shortcut, AutoCAD will start with the installed SOFi-
CAD-Profile.
It can happen, that the tool boxes are still not ordered after you’ve started SOFi-
CAD. You can sort them with the command Sort Toolboxes, via SOFiCAD ->
SOFiCAD -> Settings -> sort toolboxes.
Start Menu
The SOFiCAD intallation automatically generates an entry in the Windows Start
Menu. With it you start SOFiCAD as well. You can find it at Start -> Programs ->
SOFiCAD 2002 16.2 or SOFiCAD 2004 16.3. Select the icon with the SOFiCAD
entry there. Furthermore you can start the help, subsequently install the hardlock
driver and start the program help HLINFO via the path.
Editing Short Cuts
You can subsequently change and edit the automatically generated short cuts –
with them you can start SOFiCAD.

Starting SOFiCAD SOFiCAD
Target
Here we show with which profile and which drawing template AutoCAD will start.
/P "SOFiCAD 2004 163" After the sign /P the profile is defined. Should the
profile name contain spaces, like in the example,
the name must be in quotation marks.
/t "sofstart.dwt" Afer ther sign /t the AutoCAD design template is
defined. Should you have an own template you
can also define them. If you would like to start
without a template, remove the entry.
Execute in…
This describes the working directory. It’s important for the AutoCAD search paths
(more information regarding this topic can be found in the chapter Search Paths
(Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) on page 75).

General Functionalities (Features) SOFiCAD
General Functionalities (Features)
In the following chapters we’ll describe general functionalities which are avail-
able when working with AutoCAD and SOFiCAD. The SOFiCAD functionalities
are module spanned which means they are available in any SOFiCAD module.
AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a powerful 2D- and 3D design platform for automizing design proce-
dures. Due to its digital tools you can emphazise to on the design procedure,
rather than concentrating on the software. Architects, engineers, and shop draw-
ers use AutoCAD to design, show (display), administer, plot as well as to com-
monly use and re-use exact and data intensive drawings (designs).
Layouts (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

The AutoCAD window offers two parallel work environments, which are repres-
sented by the index tabs Model and Layout (Plan). On the index tab Model, you
draw a model for your intended project. On the index tab Layout you can arrange
different views of the model. Every Layout represents one drawing sheet, on
which one or several views of the model can be shown in different scales.
• The index tab Model represents an unlimited drawing area
(space). In the Model Area you draw (design) with a 1:1
scale and decide, whether one unit represents an inch (for a
mechanism detail or a meter (for a building structure).
• Layout index tabs access virtual drawing sheets. If you set
up a Layout, enter the paper fomate that should be used by
AutoCAD. The Layout represents the drawing sheet. The
Layout environment is called plan area.
In a Layout you can generate and position view windows such as dimensions, a
text filed or add other geometries. View windows contain the model area objects
of a drawing (design), which means the objects which you have generated (en-
tered) in the index tab Model. Each view window can represent the model area
objects with a defined scaling factor.
You can create several Layouts in one drawing, where every Layout can contain
different plot settings or paper formats.
A new drawing is opened with two Layout index tabs, Layout1 and Layout2 by
default. If you use a template, the default Layout configuration could be different
to your drawing.

You can create a completely new Layout. Work with the Layout wizard or import
a layout from a template. If you create a new Layout, only the first time, you are
asked to enter information regarding the page set up.
If you make a right-mouse click on a Layout index tab a context menu will open,
it contains options for the following functions:
• Create a new Layout
• Import a Layout from an existing drawing
• Delete a Layout
• Re-Name a Layout
• Change the order of the index tabs
• Create a new Layout based on an existing one
• Select all Layouts
• Create page settings for the current Layout
• Plott a Layout
DesignCenter (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

Re-use and common utilization of the content are indispensable for efficiently
administer a drawing object. In order to re-use drawing contents create block
references and assign external references (XRefs). With the AutoCAD Des-
ignCenter you can administer Clock references and XRefs. Furthermore you can
speed up the drawing process when you have several drawings open, by copy-
ing certain contents and inserting them in another drawing i.e. Layer definitions,
Layouts, text stiles.
With the AutoCAD DesignCenter you have access to the following functions:
• Browse for drawing content, such as drawings or symbol
libraries, on a Web page.
• View definition tables for named objects such as blocks and
layers, in any drawing file and insert, attach, or copy and
paste the definitions into the current drawing
• Create shortcuts to drawings, folders, and Internet locations
that you access frequently
• Find drawing content on your computer and on networked
drives

• Control the display of palette contents by switching between

large and small icons, lists, and details.

The Structure of the DesignCenter Window

The first time you open DesignCenter, it is displayed in the default position, do-
cked at the left of the drawing area. The palette displays large icons; the tree
view on the left displays the Desktop tree. Use the tree view to browse sources of
content and load content into the palette. Use the Symbol Library tab in AutoCAD
Today to locate and load a symbol library into the palette Undocked, the Des-
ignCenter window appears as shown.
Viewing areas in DesignCenter include the tree view and the palette. The tree
view is located in the left portion of the DesignCenter window and the palette in
the right portion. Below the palette, you can also display a previewor a descrip-

tion of a selected drawing, block, hatch pattern, or xref. A toolbar at the top of the
window provides several options and operations.

Property Dialogue (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

The window Properties can be docked in the drawing area. If you would like to
undock or hide the window, make a right-click with your mouse or indicator and
select from the context menu the option allow or Disable docking.
While the property window is open, you can continue working with AutoCAD and
enter commands.
When you double-click an object, the Properties window displays the properties
of that object. When multiple objects are selected, the Properties window dis-
plays the general properties and any other properties that are common to all
objects in the selection set.
The object properties are sorted by the alphabet or according to their category –
depending on the selected index tab. To modify properties using the Properties

window, select the object whose properties you want to change and use one of
the following methods:
• Enter a new value.
• Select a value from a list
• Change the property value in a dialog box.
• Use the Pick Point button to change a coordinate value.
The button select objects in the properties window allow access to any selection
method, such as z. B. fence, CPolygon etc., via the command line. Click Select
objects, select the desired object with any method and press ENTER. Then
change the common properties of the selected objects in the properties window
or modify the selected objects by entering the editing comman.
Grips (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

Gripsare small boxes that appear at strategic points on objects selected with a
pointing device. You can drag these grips to perform stretch, move, rotate, scale,
or mirror operations.
With grips you can combine command and object selection and therefore edit
more quickly. When grips are on, you select the objects you want before entering
a command, and then you manipulate the objects with the pointing device.
To use grips, select a grip to act as the base point for the action. Then select one
of the grip modes. You can cycle through these modes by pressing ENTER or
SPACEBAR. You also can use keyboard shortcuts or right-click to see all of the
modes and options.

The graphics cursor snaps to any grip over which it is moved. When grips are on,
objects that are removed from a grip selection set are no longer highlighted, but
their grips remain active. Active grips are useful as temporary snap locations for
grip editing.
You can use multiple grips as the base grips to keep the shape of the object
intact between the selected grips. Hold down SHIFT as you select the grips.
Strech with Grips
You can stretch an object by moving selected grips to new locations. Grips on
text, block references, midpoints of lines, centers of circles, and point objects
move the object rather than stretching it. This is an excellent method for moving
block references and adjusting dimensions.
Move with Grips
You can move objects by the grip selected. Selected objects are highlighted and
are moved the direction and distance of the next point location you specify.
Rotate with Grips
You can rotate selected objects around a base point by dragging and specifying
a point location. Alternatively, you can enter an angle value. This is an excellent
method for rotating block references.
Scale with Grips
You can scale selected objects relative to a base point. Increase the size of an
object by dragging outward from the base grip and specifying a point location, or
decrease the size by dragging inward. Alternatively, you can enter a value for
relative scaling.
Mirror with Grips
You can mirror selected objects across a temporary mirror line. Turning Ortho on
helps you specify a vertical or horizontal mirror line.
Mouse wheel (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

The IntelliMouse is a two button mouse with a little wheel between the buttons.
Left and right buttons behave the same as they do on a standard mouse. You
can rotate the wheel by discrete values. You can use the wheel to zoom and pan
in your drawing without using any AutoCAD commands.
By default, the zoom factor is set to 10 percent; each increment in the wheel
rotation changes the zoom level by 10 percent. The ZOOMFACTOR system
variable controls the incremental change, whether forward or backward. The
higher the number, the larger the change.

The following table lists the IntelliMouse mouse actions supported in AutoCAD.
To… Do this…
Rotate the wheel forward to zoom in, backward to

Zoom in or out
zoom out
Zoom to drawing ex-

Doubble click the wheel button
tents
Pan Hold down the wheel button and drag the mouse
Pan (Joystick) Hold down CTRL and drag the mouse
With the MBUTTONPAN system variable set to 0,

Display the Object Snap click the wheel button
menu Fur further information see chapter MBUTTONPAN
on page 74

Purge (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

With the command PURGE you can delete unused elements from the drawing.
Command
Enter PURGE in the command line.
Elements which cannot be used in the drawing

Lists the named objects that are not used in the current drawing and that can be
purged. You can list the items for any object type by clicking the plus sign or by
double-clicking the object type. You purge items by selecting the item to purge.
Purge Nested Items removes items only when you choose

• All Items or Blocks in the tree view

• The Purge All button
Confirm Each Item to Be Purged
Displays the Verify Purge dialog box when you purge an item.
Purge Nested Items
Removes all unused named objects from the drawing even if they are contained
within or referenced by other unused named objects. The Verify Purge dialog box
is displayed, and you can cancel or confirm the items to be purged.
View Items You Cannot Purge
Switches the tree view to display a summary of named objects in the current
drawing that you can't purge.
Items Currently Used in Drawing
Lists named objects that cannot be removed from the drawing. Most of these
objects are currently used in the drawing or are default items that cannot be re-
moved. When you select individual named objects, information about why you
can't purge the item is displayed below the tree view.

Layer (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

By creating layers, you can associate similar types of objects by assigning them
to the same layer. For example, you can put construction lines, text, dimensions,
and title blocks on separate layers.
The amount of layers, which you can create in a drawing, as well as the amount
of objects, which you can draw per layer is pactically unlimited. Layers are usu-
ally assigned to conceptional groups (i.e. wlla or dimensions). Layers can have
alphanumerical names with up to 255 characters. In many cases the layer names
are defined by the company, the industry or the client.
The layer property manager sorts the layers alphabetically according to their
names. Carefully selct the layer names, if you organize your own layer scheme.
For names of layers that have belonging drawing components, use consistent
prefixes – then it’s easier for you to find the layers using filters or placehold-
ers.
Annotation: If you use a certain layer scheme consitently, you could create a
template, which already has layer, line types and colours.

Copying layers from other drawings

With the AutoCAD DesignCenter you can grad layers from one drawing to an-
other one. Example: You are using a drawing with every standar layer, which are
required for a project. To save time and to garatee the consistency of the draw-
ings you can create a new drawing and drag the predefined layers in the new
drawing using the DesignCenter.
You can also drag or copy layers by double clicking on them or by choosing from
the context menu the oprion insert.
Annotation: You need to resolve duplicate layer names before you drag
layers from DesignCenter.
Select a Layer to Draw On
As you draw, AutoCAD places newly created objects on the current layer.
The current layer may be the default layer (0) or a layer you create and name
yourself. You switch from one layer to another by making a different layer cur-
rent, and any subsequent objects you create are associated with the new current
layer and use its color and linetype. You cannot make a layer the current layer if
it is frozen or if it is an xref-dependent layer
Remove Layers
You can remove unused layers from your drawing with PURGE or by deleting the
layer from the Layer Properties Manager. Layer 0 is the default layer for all draw-
ings and cannot be removed.

Object Snaps (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

Object snaps constrain point specification to exact locations, such as a midpoint
or an intersection, on existing objects. Using object snaps is a quick way to lo-
cate an exact position on an object without having to know the coordinate or
draw construction lines. For example, you can use an object snap to draw a line
to the center of a circle or to the midpoint of a polyline segment. You can specify
an object snap whenever AutoCAD prompts for a point. For a list of object snap
modes, see OSNAP.
If AutoSnap is turned on, AutoCAD displays a marker and a tooltip whenever

you move the target box over a snap point. This feature provides a visual clue
that indicates which object snaps are in effect.
There are a variety of ways to turn on object snaps. If you choose an individual
object snap on the toolbar or enter its name on the command line, the snap stays
in effect only for the next point you specify. You also can set running object
snaps, that is, one or more object snaps that remain in effect as you work.
Choose None to turn off both single and running object snaps

Snap to a Single Point

When you specify an object snap, the cursor changes to an object snap target
box. When you select an object, AutoCAD snaps to the eligible snap point clos-
est to the center of the target box, or aperture.
The object snap buttons are located on the Object Snap flyout on the Standard
toolbar
Use Running Object Snaps

If you need to use the same object snap repeatedly, you can set it as a running
object snap, which means it stays on until you turn it off. For example, you might
set Center as a running object snap if you need to connect the centers of a se-
ries of circles with a line. As with single object snaps, the aperture, or target box,
indicates that an object snap is on and identifies the selection area. You can
change the size of the target box.
When you turn on multiple running object snaps, AutoCAD uses the object snap
most appropriate to the object you select. If two potential snap points fall within
the selection area, AutoCAD snaps to the eligible point closest to the center of
the target box.
Note: If several running object snaps are on, you need to check which one
is in effect when you specify a point. If more than one object snap is eligible
at a given location, press the TAB key to cycle through the possibilities be-
fore you specify the point.
Object Snap Restrictions
Most of the object snaps that are described here affect only objects visible on the
screen, including objects on locked layers, layout viewport boundaries, and poly-
line segments. You cannot snap to objects that are not visible, such as objects
that are not displayed, objects on turned-off or frozen layers, or the blank por-
tions of dashed lines.
Object snaps work only when AutoCAD prompts for a point. If you try to use an
object snap at the Command prompt, AutoCAD displays an error message.
Object Snap Tracking (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

Use object snap tracking to track along alignment paths that are based on object
snap points. Acquired points display a small plus sign (+), and you can acquire
up to seven tracking points at a time. After you acquire a point, horizontal, verti-
cal, or polar alignment paths relative to the point are displayed as you move the

cursor over their drawing paths. For example, you can select a point along a path
based on an object endpoint or midpoint or an intersection between objects.
In the following illustration, the Endpoint object snap is on. You start a line by
clicking its start point (1), move the cursor over another line's endpoint (2) to
acquire it, and then move the cursor along the horizontal alignment path to locate
the endpoint you want for the line you are drawing (3).
Change Object Snap Tracking Settings
By default, object snap tracking is set to orthogonal. Alignment paths are dis-
played at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees from acquired object points. However, you
can use polar tracking angles instead.
For object snap tracking, AutoCAD automatically acquires object points. How-
ever, you can choose to acquire points only when you press SHIFT.
Change Alignment Path Display
You can change how AutoTrack displays alignment paths, and you can change
how AutoCAD acquires object points for object snap tracking. By default, align-
ment paths stretch to the end of the drawing window. You can change their dis-
play to abbreviated lengths, or no length
Tips for Using Object Snap Tracking

As you use AutoTrack (polar snap tracking and object snap tracking), you will
discover techniques that make specific design tasks easier. Here are a few you
might try:
• Use Perpendicular, End, and Mid object snaps with object
snap tracking to draw to points that are perpendicular to the
end and midpoints of objects.
• Use the Tangent and End object snaps with object snap tra-
cking to draw to points that are tangent to the endpoints of
arcs.

• Use object snap tracking with temporary tracking points. At a

point prompt, enter tt, and then specify a temporary tracking
point. A small + appears at the point. As you move your cur-
sor, AutoTrack alignment paths are displayed relative to the
temporary point. To remove the point, move the cursor back
over the +.
• After you acquire an object snap point, use direct distance to
specify points at precise distances along alignment paths
from the acquired object snap point. To specify a point
prompt, select an object snap, move the cursor to display an
alignment path, and then enter a distance at the Command
prompt.
• Use the Automatic and Shift to Acquire options set on the
Drafting tab of the Options dialog box to manage point ac-
quisition. Point acquisition is set to Automatic by default.
When working in close quarters, press SHIFT to temporarily
avoid acquiring a point.
Plotting (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

Plot-Manager
The Plotter Manager is a window that lists plotter configuration (PC3 files) for
every nonsystem printer that you install. Plotter configuration files can also be
created for Windows system printers if you want AutoCAD to use default proper-
ties different from those used by Windows. Plotter configuration settings specify
port information, raster and vector graphics quality, paper sizes, and custom
properties that depend on the plotter type.
The Plotter Manager contains the Add-a-Plotter wizard, which is the primary tool
for creating plotter configurations. The Add-a-Plotter wizard prompts you for in-
formation about the plotter you want to set up.
Layouts
A layout represents a plotted page. You can create as many layouts as you
need. Each layout is saved on its own layout tab and can be associated with a
different page size and plotter.
Elements that only appear on a plotted page, such as title blocks and notes, are
drawn in paper space in a layout. The objects in the drawing are created in
model space on the Model tab. To view these objects in the layout, you create
layout viewports.

Page Setups
When you create a layout, you specify a plotter and settings such as page size
and plot orientation. You can control these settings for layouts and for the Model
tab using the Page Setup dialog box. You can name and save page setups for
use with other layouts.
If you don't specify all the settings in the Page Setup dialog box when you create
a layout, you can set up the page just before you plot. Or you can override a
page setup at plot time. You can use the new page setup temporarily for the
current plot, or you can save the new page setup.
Plot Styles
A plot style controls how an object or layer is plotted by determining plotted

properties such as lineweight, color, and fill style. Plot style tables collect groups
of plot styles. The Plot Style Manager is a window that shows all the plot style
tables available in AutoCAD.
There are two plot style types: color-dependent and named. A drawing can only
use one type of plot style table. You can convert a plot style table from one type
to the other. You can also change the type of plot style table a drawing uses
once it has been set.
For color-dependent plot style tables, an object's color determines how it is plot-
ted. These plot style table files have .ctb extensions. You cannot assign color-
dependent plot styles directly to objects. Instead, to control how an object is plot-
ted, you change its color. For example, all objects assigned the color red in a
drawing plot the same way
Named plot style tables use plot styles that are assigned directly to objects and
layers. These plot style table files have .stb extensions. Using them enables
each object in a drawing to be plotted differently, independent of its color.
Multiple Document (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help)

You can open several drawings during one AutoCAD session. In order to activate
a drawing in this case, click on any place in the desired drawing. With STRG +
F6 or STRG + TAB key, you can switch between the open files. For certain long
lasting operations such as regenerating the drawing, however this procedure is
not possible.
Use the Window menu to control the display of multiple drawings in an AutoCAD
session. You can cascade open drawings or tile them vertically or horizontally.
When you have a number of drawings minimized, you can use Arrange Icons to
clean up the display of the minimized drawing icons in the AutoCAD window. You

can also select a drawing from the list of open drawings at the bottom of this
menu
You can quickly reference other drawings, copy and paste between drawings, or
drag selected objects from one drawing to another with the right button on your
pointing device. You can also use Match Properties (MATCHPROP) to copy
properties from objects in one drawing to objects in another drawing. You can
use AutoCAD object snaps, the Copy with Basepoint (COPYBASE) command,
and the Paste to Original Coordinates (PASTEORIG) command to ensure accu-
rate placement, especially when copying objects from one drawing to another.
Saving files (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help)

The drawings are saved just like in any other Windows applications. AutoCAD
furthermore contins the functions to automatically save, generate backup copies
and other saving functions.
While you’re working on a drawing, you should save on a regular basis. Thereby
you prevent loss of data due to electricity failures or other unexpected events. If
you would like to create a new version of your drawing, without deleting the old
one, go ahead and save the new drawing under a different name.
The file extensions for AutoCAD drawings are .dwg.
Automatic Saves
If you turn on the option for automatic saves, AutoCAD will save your drawing on
a regular basis. By default, automatically saved files receive the temporary name
Filename_a_b_nnnn.sv$. The file name is the name of the current drawing, a is
the amount of open instances of the same drawing file in the same AutoCAD
session, b is the amount of open instantces of the same drawing during different
sessions on AutoCAD and nnnn is a random number generated by AutoCAD.
Files that are automatically saved will be deleted, if AutoCAD closes a drawing in
the normal way. Saved files will remain in the event of a sudden electricity failure
or a system crash.
You can determine the position of any file for automatical saving with the system
vaariables using SAVEFILEPATH. SAVEFILE (write-protected) saves the name
of the file for automatical saving.
• Minutes between saving procedures: Determines how often
drawings will be saved automatically. This value will be
stored in the system variable SAVETIME.

Backup Copy
When you save a named drawing for the first time, AutoCAD creates a backup
copy of the drawing using the .bak file name extension. Each time you use SAVE
or SAVEAS with the current drawing name, AutoCAD updates the backup file.
If your program terminates unexpectedly, AutoCAD tries to rename the backup
file to prevent the corrupted file from replacing the existing backup file. AutoCAD
renames the backup file with the .bk1 file name extension if that file does not
exist. If that backup file exists, AutoCAD generates new file types in the se-
quence .bk2 to .bk9, .bka to .bkz, .baa to .bzz until it finds a unique file name.
If your system fails and the backup file contains the previous version of the draw-
ing file, copy the backup file to a safe place in case you need to revert to that
version. To use the backup copy of the drawing, rename the file with a .dwg ex-
tension.
Backup Copy whenever you save
Determines if a backup copy should be generated when you save the file. The
backup copy will be created in the same directory like the drawing. The option
can also be activated with the system variable ISAVEBAK
Use Windows Cut, Copy, and Paste (Extract from the AutoCAD
Online-Help)
When you want to use objects from an AutoCAD drawing file in another applica-
tion, cut or copy these objects to the Clipboard and then paste them from the
Clipboard into your file
Cut Objects
Cutting deletes selected objects from the drawing and stores them on the Clip-
board. The objects are now available to be pasted into other Windows docu-
ments.
Copy Objects
You can use the Clipboard to copy part or all of a drawing into a document cre-
ated by another application. The AutoCAD objects are copied in vector format,
which retains the high resolution in other applications. These objects are stored
in WMF (Windows metafile) format in the Clipboard. The information stored in the
Clipboard can then be embedded in the other document. Updating the original
drawing does not update the copy embedded in the other application.

Paste Objects
Applications use different internal formats to store Clipboard information. When

you copy objects to the Clipboard, AutoCAD stores information in all available
formats. When you paste the Clipboard contents into an AutoCAD drawing,
AutoCAD uses the format that retains the most information. However, you can
override this setting and convert pasted information to AutoCAD format.
Because it is the easiest format to edit, the AutoCAD format is the preferred for-
mat for copying objects to and from AutoCAD. It retains all relevant object infor-
mation, including block references and 3D aspects.
The Windows metafile (picture) format contains screen vector information, and
files can be scaled and printed without losing resolution. Use this format to paste
objects into Windows applications that support WMF files-. Metafiles pasted into
AutoCAD are of higher resolution than bitmapped images (BMP files) but are not
as easily manipulated as AutoCAD objects.
The color of the object doesn't change when copied to the Clipboard. For exam-
ple, white objects pasted onto a white background won't be visible. Use the
WMFBKGND and WMFFOREGND system variables to control whether the
background or foreground is transparent for metafile objects pasted into other
applications.
Bitmapped images are raster images consisting of a pattern of pixels and are
commonly used by paint applications.
You can insert a linked or embedded object from the Clipboard into an AutoCAD
drawing with PASTESPEC. If you convert pasted information to AutoCAD format,
the object is inserted as a block reference. To edit the pasted information, ex-
plode the block reference into its component objects. When you convert a Win-
dows metafile stored on the Clipboard to AutoCAD format, you may lose some
scaling precision. To retain proper scaling, save objects in the original drawing as
a block (WBLOCK), and then insert them into AutoCAD using INSERT.
Variables (Extract from the AutoCAD Online-Help)

System variables are configurations that control the functions of certain com-
mands. With them you can turn on or off the modi such as Snap, Raster or Ortho.
The system variable can determine the default scaling for hatching patterns.
Information about the current drawing and the AutoCAD configuration can be
saved. Sometimes you change a seting using system variables. In different
cases the current state can be displayed using a system variable.
I.e. the system variable GRIDMODE turns the display of the raster on or off if you
change the value. In this case the system variable GRIDMODE functionally has
the same value as the command RASTER. DATE is a write protected system

variable where the current date is saved. You can display the value, but you
cannor change it.
You can change the settings of your variables transparently, while using a differ-
rent command. The new values may however be active only after the intereupted
command has been exited.
In the following we describe and explain a few variables:
FILEDIA
Typ: Integer
Saved in: Registration
Initial value: 1
Suppresses display of the file dialog boxes:
0 Does not display dialog boxes. You can still request a file dialog box to
appear by entering a tilde (~) in response to the command's prompt.
The same is true for AutoLISP and ADS functions.
1 Displays file dialog boxes. However, if a script or Auto-
LISP/ObjectARX™ program is active, AutoCAD displays an ordinary
prompt.
CMDDIA
In order to guarantee the display of the dialogue windows, the variable CMDDIA
must be configured analogely to the variable FILEDIA .
ATTDIA
Typ: Integer
Saved in: Registry
Initial value: 0
Controls whether the INSERT command uses a dialog box for attribute value
entry.
0 Issues prompts on the command line
1 Uses a dialog box
HIGHLIGHT
Typ: Integer
Not saved

Initial value: 1
Controls object highlighting; does not affect objects selected with grips
0 Turns off object selection highlighting
1 Turns on object selection highlighting
UCSFOLLOW
Typ: Integer
Saved in: Drawing (viewport specific)
Initial value: 0
Generates a plan view whenever you change from one UCS to another. Set
UCSFOLLOW separately for each viewport. If UCSFOLLOW is on for a particu-
lar viewport, AutoCAD generates a plan view in that viewport whenever you
change coordinate systems. Once the new UCS has been established, you can
use DVIEW, PLAN, VIEW, or VPOINT to change the view of the drawing. It will
change to a plan view again the next time you change coordinate systems.
0 UCS does not affect the view
1 Any UCS change causes a change to the plan view of the new UCS in
the current viewport
The setting of UCSFOLLOW is maintained separately for paper space and model
space and can be accessed in either, but the setting is ignored while in paper
space (it is always treated as if set to 0). Although you can define a non-world
UCS in paper space, the view remains in plan view to the world coordinate sys-
tem.
OSNAPCOORD
Typ: Integer
Saved in: Registry
Initial value: 2
Controls whether coordinates entered on the command line override running
object snaps.
0 Running object snap settings override keyboard coordinate entry
1 Keyboard entry overrides object snap settings
2 Keyboard entry overrides object snap settings except in scripts

ISAVEPERCENT
Typ: Integer
Saved in: Registry
Initial value: 50
Determines the amount of wasted space tolerated in a drawing file. The value of
ISAVEPERCENT is an integer between 0 and 100. The default value of 50
means that the estimate of wasted space within the file does not exceed 50 per-
cent of the total file size. Wasted space is eliminated by periodic full saves. When
the estimate exceeds 50 percent, the next save will be a full save. This resets the
wasted space estimate to 0. If ISAVEPERCENT is set to 0, every save is a full
save.
TEXTFILL
Type: Integer
Saved in: Registry
Initial value: 1
Controls the filling of TrueType fonts while plotting and rendering.
0 Displays text as outlines
1 Displays text as filled images
OSMODE
Type: Integer
Saved in: Registry
Initial value: 4133
Sets running Object Snap modes using the following bitcodes:
0 NONe
1 ENDpoint
2 MIDpoint
4 CENter
8 NODe
16 QUAdrant
32 INTersection
64 INSertion
128 PERpendicular

256 TANgent
512 NEArest
1024 QUIck
2048 APParent Intersection
4096 EXTension
8192 PARallel
To specify more than one object snap, enter the sum of their values. For exam-
ple, entering 3 specifies the Endpoint (bitcode 1) and Midpoint (bitcode 2) object
snaps. Entering 16383 specifies all object snaps.
When object snaps are switched off using the Osnap button on the status bar, a
bitcode of 16384 (0x4000) is returned, in addition to the normal value of
OSMODE. With this additional value, developers can write applications for Auto-
CAD, and distinguish this mode from Object Snap modes that have been turned
off from within the Drafting Settings dialog box. Setting this bit toggles running
object snaps off. Setting OSMODE to a value with this bit off toggles running
object snaps on.
MBUTTONPAN
Type: Integer
Saved in: Registry
Initial Value: 1
Controls the behavior of the third button or wheel on the pointing device.
0 Supports the action defined in the menu (.mnu) file
1 Supports panning when you hold and drag the button or wheel
MEASUREMENT
Type: Integer
Saved in: Drawing
Initial value: 0
Sets drawing units as English or metric for the current drawing only. Specifically,
MEASUREMENT controls which hatch pattern and linetype files an existing
drawing uses when it is opened.
0 English; uses the hatch pattern file and linetype file designated by the
ANSIHatch and ANSILinetype registry settings
1 Metric; uses the hatch pattern file and linetype file designated by the

ISOHatch and ISOLinetype registry settings

The drawing units for new drawings are controlled by MEASUREINIT
(MEASUREINIT uses the same values as MEASUREMENT). The
MEASUREMENT setting of a drawing always overrides the MEASUREINIT set-
ting.
Search Paths (Extracts from the AutoCAD-Online-Help)

The Files tab of the Options dialog box is where you set the search path Auto-
CAD uses to find support files such as text fonts, drawings, linetypes, and hatch
patterns. The working support file search path lists paths from the support file
search paths that are valid and exist in the current system directory structure
(including system network mapping). Using these options helps improve per-
formance when AutoCAD loads these files.
AutoCAD searches the support-files according to the following criteria:
• Working directory. (This is usually determined by the configu-
ration “Working directory” in your short cut symbol.)
• Directory that contains the current drawing file.
• Directories in the search path under OPTIONS. For further
information concerning search paths, see "Determining
search paths, file names and file paths” in the utoCAD user
manual.
• Directory that contains the AutoCAD program files.
Two or several directories can be the identically, depending on the current envi-
ronment.

SOFiCAD
SOFiCAD is a modular CAD-system that runs on top of AutoCAD. This means,

as base for SOFiCAD, you always need AutoCAD. Thereby you have the advan-
tage, that while working with SOFiCAD, you have access to any of the AutoCAD
functionalities. SOFiCAD should be understood and used as application on and
complement for for AutoCAD.
Within SOFiCAD you will find certain base functions. They are equal in any mod-
ule.
In the following chapter we describe the most important functionalities.
Version Number
Especially for Hotline queries, it is of outmost importance that you have the exact
SOFiCAD version number in front of you.
You receive the version number if you enter in the SOFiCAD text line the com-
mand VER.
Command: ver
ACADPREFIX=C:\Programme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\;C:\Programme
\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.
2\Support;C:\Programme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\Catalog;C:\Pro
gramme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiC
AD\16.2\English;C:\Programme\Gemeinsame Dateien\Autodesk
Shared\;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop
3\Support;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop
3\Fonts;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop
3\Help;C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop 3\drv;
C:\Programme\SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\NAME.NAM
MENUNAME=C:\Programme\Autodesk Architectural Desktop

3\Support\acad
SOFiCAD-Version 16.2 (Build 6)
The exact version number will be received by entering the command VERB.
Befehl: verb

SOFiCAD-B Version 16.3 Release Candidate 1
AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.3

You can reach the AutoCAD dialog window OPTIONS via SOFICAD -> Settings -
> Options. Here you can determine in which folder AutoCAD should search for
support- driver- menu and other files. Further more some optional user defined
settings can be configured. (For further information see Search Paths (Extracts
from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) see Page 75 )
For SOFiCAD 16.3 the following settings have to be configured in front of the
AutoCAD entries:
The search paths for user defines files:
C:\Dokumente und Einstellungen\[Benutzer]\Lokale Einstellungen\Anwendungsdaten\...
...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\deutsch
...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\catalog
...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\support
...Autodesk\AutoCAD

2004\R16.0\deu\support
C:\Dokumente und Einstellun-
gen\gg\Anwendungsdaten\Autodesk\AutoCAD2004\R16.0\deu\support;
C:\Programme\...
...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.3\
C:\Programme\Gemeinsame Dateien\Autodesk Shared\
C:\Programme\...
...AutoCAD 2004\support
...AutoCAD 2004\fonts
...AutoCAD 2004\help
...AutoCAD 2004\drv
(The path settings are valid for Windows 2000 and Windows XP. For Windows
NT "Documents and settings” has to be replaced by "Profiles")
AutoCAD Profile for Version 16.2

You can reach the AutoCAD dialog window OPTIONS via SOFICAD -> Settings -
> Options. Here you can determine in which folder AutoCAD should search for
support- driver- menu and other files. Further more some optional user defined
settings can be configured. (For further information see Search Paths (Extracts
from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) see page 75 )
For SOFiCAD 16.2 the following entries must be at the search path for support
filaas in front of the AutoCAD entries:
C:\Programme\...
...SOFiSTiK\SOFiCAD\16.2\
C:\Programme\Gemeinsame Dateien\Autodesk Shared\

C:\Programme\...
...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\
...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\support
...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\fonts
...AutoCAD 2002 Deu\express
Recovering Plans
Problem
After system crashes, plans can sometimes not be re-opened. There are how-
ever a few possibilities how you can repair the files. Generally the repair function
in AutoCAD 2002 has substantially been improved compared to the anticipating
versions.
Inserting Drawing as Block
Often errors in the file are reapired by inserting the drawing as block in a new file.
Procedure:
• Start SOFiCAD with a blank drawing
• Select the command “Insert ->Block”
• Select the drawing file to be repaired
• Configure the following:

• Confirm the configurations with OK

Subsequently we recommend purging the plan of unused blocks. For purging,
see the chapter Purge (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) on page 59 .
Recovering
Procedure:
• Start SOFiCAD with a blank drawing
• Select the command "File -> Utilities -> Recover..."
• Select the desired file
• The drawing will be analyzed concerning errors and they will
be corrected if applicable
Open and Save with pure AutoCAD
Sometimes it can also be helpful to load the drawing with pure AutoCAD (without
SOFiCAD) and to save it.
Doubble Click
In the SOFiCAD option you can configure that if you double click on an element,
a dialogue window will open. In this case the corresponding dialogue for changes
is called.
If it’s not a SOFiCAD element, usually the properties window will open.

SOFiMACH
This command creates an equal type of object, if you select an object. By
showing any object, the command that created this object will be carried
out. As many properties as possible will be taken over during this proce-
dure. For complex objects (dimension, blocks etc.) you can decide whether
the complex or the shown object should be used. SOFiMACH also processes
secondary scale areas.
Examples:
• Show a line: calling the command LINE with pre-selected
layer, color and linetype.
• Show a dimensioning: Call the corresponding dimensioning
command with the dimensioning style of the shown element.
• Show a hatching; hatching command with the properties of
the shown hatching.
• Show a reinforcement object: command to create extracts or
distributions (layings).
SOFiMACH can also be called with the right-click menu, once a single element
has been selected.

Diagnosis
The program lists any SOFiSTiK specific configurations and files from the opera-
tion system and the SOFiSTiK programs. It serves as support in the event of
errors (supports error search) or problems with the operation system.
Besides the DIAGNOSIS.EXE the file SOF_T99.DLL is also required. The
latest current one is included in the TEDDY.ZIP. You can download it on the
page Freeware. Additionally the filesMFC42.DLL and MSVCRT.DLL must
be present in the System32-directory.
Call
• Start the program through the menu Help -> Diagnosis
• The DIAGNOSIS text window opens

• Now you can conduct a SOFiSTiK program start test
• Via SOFiSTiK\Properties you can define the environment

variables in the SOFiSTiK.DEF

• Output of the entire data in a text file for the support:
* Select the symbol Teddy, should TEDDY not be installed, the

standard editor “Notepad” will be opened.
* A text window will open with all the data in it.
* Save the text file and send it to the support.

Relative Point Entry

Unlike to AutoCAD, every point entry demanded by a SOFiCAD-command (i.e.
tarting- and end point) can be done via any reference point, by pressing
RETURN during the point query. For the reference point query the very often
needed object snap end (END) point is the default. After entering the reference
point the program expects a coordinate entry relative to the reference point. This
can either be entered with the keyboard, the integer keys on the tablet or screen.
The @ has to be set in front as the sign for the relative coordinate. With the
AutoCAD function “direct distance entry”, which is available since version 13C4,
can the reference point entry can also be conducted via Show-Direction and
keyboard entry of the distance.
A second RETUN means usually the command end. The reference point entry
can be deactivated in the SOFiCAD options.

Construction / Design SOFiCAD
Construction / Design
The SOFiCAD Design module facilitates to create plans of any type. The pro-
gram is thought to create formwork- and shop drawings as well as design (con-
struction) plans for bridges or creating position plans.
Functionality (Features)
The SOFiCAD Design module offers any possibility to create a design (construc-
tion) specific plan under AutoCAD.
Working in AutoCAD with Layout indeces and view windows can substantially be
facilitated with SOFiCAD Design. The configuration of the view window is done
by entering the desired scale and showing the view center in the model index
tab. The font sizes, dimensions and hatching automatically adapt to the scale in
the view windows.
The sheet margin incl. the folding marker can individually be configured. When a
new page size is selected, the page margin will automatically be changed and
the plan stamp will be positioned at the right place. Those who choose to exclu-
sively work in the model tab can define secondary scale ares in SOFiCAD Con-
struction. SOFiCAD will consider the corresponding scale in this area.
SOFiCAD Design has a powerful ACCESS project data base integrated. The
data of the plan and construction stamps are stored in it, and they can be ac-
cessed at any time.
Changes in the data base as well as in the plan stamp and in the drawing are
administered via indices.
Positions such as fitted parts can be stored without redundancy and they can be
viewed by any person involved in the project.
Multi-project catalogues for Built-In parts are included and they can easily be
modified.
Commands can be entered via tool boxes, screen menus or via tablets.
SOFiCAD Design excels due to its open data structure. Therefore, any layer
used in the program can be administered form externally via an interface.
In it, it’s determined which layer with what properties should be used by SOFi-
CAD. In the options you can configure the line strength and colors that should be
used by SOFiCAD Design.

Dimension
SOFiCAD Design offers substantial support for construction specific dimension
especially to create m/cm and superposed mm. The following dimension types
are supported: Linear, anglular, inclination, arch, radius and diameter dimension,
level mark and coordinate dimension.
Linear
Linear dimension can be generated, among others, through a base line, where
any intersections of this base line can be taken up into the dimension chain to
the construction. The dimension chain can be positioned exactly and an addi-
tional overall dimension can be generated. The look of the dimension can be
controlled with the dimensionstyle. It can be modified at any time. Addtionally it
can be determined, whether the dimensioning should be carried out in m/cm mm
cm or m. Any dimension as well as level marks are associative and can be modi-
fied subsequently. Linear dimension can be divided or summarized subse-
quently.
Level Mark
Just like the normal AutoCAD dimension, the level mark dimension is not linked
to objects, but it is related to the reference points which belong to the level
marks. When changing dimensioned objects, the relevant reference points must
be taken up into the selection, in order to update the level marks. I.e. in order to
move a dimensioned formwork edge, select it and the reference points of the
dimension with the help of the object selection method Cross. Simply selecting
the formwork edge by clicking on it is not sufficient in order to update the linked
dimension. At the reference points there are also grips. Due to this, it’s the easi-
est way to edit level marks with the grips. The look (display) of the level marks is
configured with an AutoCAD dimensionstyle, however it consideres the general
scale text properties chosen in the AutoCAD Arrchitectural Dektop under Options
-> AEC->Dimensions->General.
Dimension Styles
Any property of an associative dimension will be stored in the dimension style.

The dimension style is then a property of the correspondding dimension. Dimen-
sion styles can be changed at any time, the current drawing will be updated
automatically after the change.
Position Plans
We have corresponding commands to create position plans. The positioning of
single- area- and line elements is done intuitively. Each change of the dialogbox
has an immediate effect on the screen.

Stairs
Stairs of any type can be created very comfortably in 3D. A catalogue with stan-
dard stairs incl. spiral stairs is available. They can individually be created by
entering them parametrically. Further more free stairs can be constructed very
easily. Stair sections or stair development are supported by the corresponding
commands.
Additional functions are the stair tracing, when changing the stairs geometry,
changing the constructive parameters as well as creating sections and de-
veloppment of the stairs.
With the SOFiCAD-stair module it’s possible to construct timber stringers and
solid stairs based on any plan situation. The created drawing data can be used
either in 2D or 3D.
Edit Functions
To change geometries we have additional tools to the commands delivered with
AutoCAD.
Via the command Heal, broken lines can be blended into one element again.
With „Adapt Copy + Size to view window”, dimensions, texts and hatching can be
copied from one view window into another one, including automatical size adap-
tion.
Further more we have commands such as “multiple copies”, “copy and rotate”,
“copy move and rotate” where several actions have been combined into one
command. This saves time and additional entry effort.
Via the Split command, elements can be splitted and moved subsequently.
The command „3D->2D“ takes any Z-coordinates of the drawing to 0 and deletes
any object heights.
Catalogues
Symbol Catalogues
SOFiCAD Design contains a large pallet of symbol catalogues. From the general
plan symbol, sheet pile walls to furnishing catalogues for the living area, the sani-
tary rooms and kitchens up to the display of trees, figures and cars in the plan
view and view. The symbols can be selected from consise catalogues and
placed in the plan via Drag & Drop. You can also easily create your own cata-
logue using the catalogue wizzard. In the blocks you can define additional insert-
ing points, which aliviate the exact inserting.

Built-In Catalogues
Built-in(s) such as walls, windows and doors can also be selected via catalogue
and inserted into the drawing using Drag & Drop. Walls with several formworks
can be defined with or without hatching. For walls with the same properties, an
intersection will automatically be generated.
Windows with any dimension and rebates can be stored in catalogues. SOFiCAD
Construction is delivered with many standard pre-defined built-in components.
Additionally Built-ins (components) can be defined at any time using the cata-
logue wizzard. Block-Outs and breakthroughs are created including their label-
ing.
Subsequently walls can be intersected, block outs can be deleted or moved with
the corresponding commands.
Drawing Commands
Rectangle
With the SOFiCAD Rectangle the user has an object at his hands, which keeps
the form of a rectangle when stretching or editing it with the grips. Additionally to
the usual object grips such as endpoint or middle point, the object snap can be
used for the center.
Hatching
We also have a catalogue with the usual (normal) hatchings. The hatching is
associative and can easily be changed subsequently. The adaption of the scaling
factors to the scale is done automatically. Islands can be inserted in the hatch-
ings subsequently.
Traffic Lane
For planning of driveways and paking spaces / sites there is a command to gen-
erate the traffic curves. The desired course will be marked through a polylines.
The program analyzes the traffic curve based on this polylines and a chosen
vehicle and displays it as a closed polylines. A wide variety of vehicles is avail-
able, starting with a simple car, to a long bus with a joint up to a truck tractor
train.
Others
We have the corresponding commands to create axial grids / section lines, elon-
gation and construction joints. Further more, insulations or embankments can be
drawn along existing geometries.

Pens
The toolbox SOFiCAD Pens" serves for easily selecting the text size, the corre-
sponding dimensionstyle and color. This corresponds to the choice of ink pen
and the corresponding font stencil at the drawing board. The currently configured
text height is shown in the mm in the status line. Should a dimensionnstyle not
exist, it will automatically be created.
Working Method
Setup in the Layout Tab
With the Plan Setup in the layout tab, you can administer several drawings within
one .DWG. Detail scales will be generated via the view windows.

Page Setup
The drawings in the layout tab can be configured with the AutoCAD command
“Page Setup”.

Create page margin with inner border

Page (sheet) margins can also be created in the Layout tab very easily. This is
also done using the SOFiCAD command SETUP.

Configuring the inner border

You can define the inner border of the page with the value you desire, or you can
also suppress it entirely.

User defined page (sheet) formates

The size of the border (margin) depends on the paper formate selected in the
layout properties. Using user defined page formats, you can define any page
formate that is not in the pull down menu.

Setup in the Model Tab
You can setup a plan in the model tab. However, then you can only administer
one drawing per .DWG. In order to create detail scales you have to work with the
SOFiCAD secondary scales.

User defined page formats are also possible.
Here you can configure the color and width of the inner border as well as the
origin and the dimension of the outer border. If you click on the button Show<
you can determine the pafe size by clicking two diagonal points.
Command Reference
Dimension
Icon Menu Brief Description
Dimension ->
Chain Dimension -> Chain Dimen- Creates a dimension chain through

sion of of intersections the ojects to be dimensioned after
entering a line
Arc Dimension Creates a dimension chain at an arc,
a circle, a ployline or a line

Diameter Dimension or Radius Creates a diametr- or radius dimeni-

Dimension on at a cirle or circle arc.
Level Mark Creates a dimension at a level mark
Area, Volumes, Center Mark Determines diameter, area, volume,

weight and center mark of objects
Angular Dimension or Inclination Creates a angular dimension be-
Dimenion tween two lines, at an arc or at three
points or an inclination dimension at
a line
Information
SOFiCAD -> Info ->
Distance between 2 points Shows the distance between 2

points
Distance/Angle Shows the distance between 2 paral-
lel lines or the angle between 2 non-
parallel lines
Element Shows the type of object
List Shows data base information for

selected objects
Build
Plan
SOFiCAD -> Build
Walls -> Catalogue Walls 2D Opens wall catalogues with the Des-
ignCenter

Walls -> Intersect Walls Intersects lines to wall corners
Blockouts -> Catalogue Windows Opens the Window or Door Cata-

or Catalogue Doors logue with DesignCenter
Blockouts -> Blockout Catalogue Opens the Blockout Catalogue with

the DesignCenter
Stairs
SOFiCAD -> Build -> Stairs ->
Standard stairs Opens the stair catalogue for standard

stairs with the DesignCenter
Stair Development Creates the development of the stair
stringers of a previously generated
stair
Section Creates a section of a previously cre-
ated stair
Change Allowes to edit the previously created
stair , or the material thereof
Other
SOFiCAD -> Build ->
Axis Creates an axis or an axis grid with

labeling
Joint -> Working joint or expansion Draws Working- or expansion joints
joint
Embankment Draws embankmens

Insulation Draws insulations
Ground Draws ground/soil
Draw
SOFiCAD ->
Draw -> Construction Line Creates construction lines at the

section points of a line to be entered
with other objects.
Tools -> create Traffic Lane Creates a traffic lane along any poly
line.
Tools -> 3D->2D Sets any Z-heights within one file to
0.
Draw -> Center Line Creates a center line between 2
parallel lines or an angle dividing line
between non-parallel lines
Drawing
SOFiCAD -> Drawing ->
Setup Creates a drawing sheet and

changes the page (sheet) size,
scale, sheet margin / border etc.
Title Block -> Increase Index Increases the drawing index
Secondary Scale Area -> define For a rectangular are i.e. from poly-
Rectangular secondary scale area lines, it defines a secondary scale
or object area

Other
SOFiCAD ->
Drawing Aids -> Snap parallel Orientates the snap paralelly to an
objects
Layer -> Delete Deletes any objects on a layer
Layer -> Leaf (Browse) Browses the layers one by one
Layer -> Multiple Off or One Off Turn multiple layers off, or turn one
or On layer off, where the layer is selected
by pointing on an object, or turns any
non-frozen layer on.
Pens Serves to easly sect an analogue

text height, the corresponding di-
mensionstyle and color.
Regenerate View Regenerates the drawing and draws

new the current view window.

Plan Management SOFiCAD
Plan Management
The Plan Management is a program to manage plans in a project data base

(MDB). The plan attributes are read in the plan management from the Title Block
and they are updated.
The program is a product for any user who manages plans and has to print out
plan lists.
Functionality
Plan stocks are listed fast and concise with the project explorer. The title block
data of the single plans are displayed. You can determine the order of appear-
ance and the headline names by yourself. You can easily change directories and
it’s fast. Via the plan management the plans can directly be opened, re-named,
copied, or even deleted. Due to many different filter functions you can print every
plan or only marked plans with different templates in a plan list. The project data
base (*.MDB) can be edited with MS Access.

Work Method
The Plan Management can be started in the AutoCAD menu ->File -> SOFiCAD
Plan management or externally via START -> Programs -> SOFiCAD -> Plan
Management.
When saving plan with an inserted Title Block, in the project directory a project
database (*.MDB) will automatically be generated. Any plans with the same
number in their Title Block data will be written into the MDB. The tracing / chang-
ing of the title blocks can be done via SOFiCAD -> Drawing -> Title Block ->
Planstempel .

Comand reference
Datei (File) -> Drucke Journal Prints the plan list

(Print Journal)
- Datei (File) -> Projekt Explorer Lists any plan and plan data of a
project
- Datei (File)-> Neue Datenbank Generates a new project database
erstellen..(Generate New Databa-
se).
Datei (File)-> Beenden (Exit) Exit SOFiCAD Plan Management
- Changes to the next higher directory
- Generates a new directory
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Neu Creates a new .dwg

(New)...
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Öff- Opens the selected .dwg
nen.(Open)..
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> als Block Inserts selected .dwg as block
einfügen.(insert as block)..
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> als *Block Inserts selected .dwg as dissolved
einfügen.(inster as block).. block
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> als Xref Inserts selected .dwg as external

einfügen.(insert as Xref).. reference
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Umbenen- Renames the selected .dwg

nen (Rename)
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Löschen Deletes the selected .dwg
(Delete)
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Kopieren Copies the selected .dwg

(Copy)
Zeichnung (Drawing)-> Kommen- Allowes editing the comments for the
tar Editieren (Edit comment) selected .dwg

Bearbeiten (Edit)-> Suchen Searches the journal for a term

(Search)
Bearbeiten (Edit)-> sichtbare dwg`s Highlights any visile .dwg
Markieren (Highlight visible
.dwg’s)
Bearbeiten (Edit)-> sichtbare dwg`s Removes the highlighting for any
Demarkieren (Un-Highlight visible visible .dwg
.wg’s)
- Ansicht (View) -> Symbolleiste Control to show the icons

(Tool Bar)
- Ansicht (View)-> Statusleiste Controls the visibility of the status

(Status Line) line, such as time or directory of the
MDB
Ansicht (View) -> Filter Bearbeiten Configures the filter properties
(Edit Filter)
Ansicht (View)-> Filter Anwenden Applies the filter
(Apply Filter)
- Highlights any plan in the project
-- Romoves the ighlighting of the plans
- Ansicht (View)-> Aktualisieren Updates the view of the plan data

(Update)
- Ansicht (View)-> Optionen (Opti- Comment determines the names and

ons) the order of the comment names
Installs in: directory of the Sofi-

cadp.exe
Preview: determines the plan size
and the background color
Connection to: determines the Auto-
CAD-Release and the data update

Reinforcement SOFiCAD
Reinforcement
SOFiCAD Reinforcement allowes to draw any round steel and mesh rein-
forcement comfortably. The reinforcement created with SOFiCAD Reinforce-
ment can be modifies at any time (associative reinforcement).
Partial- and whole lenghts as well as numbers are determined automatically.
Steel- und Bending lists as well as cutting sletches are automatically generated
and can either be printed / given out or inserted into the plan.
The program SOFiCAD Reinforcement is thought for any user who works in con-
structive or civil engineering. It’s possible to reinforce different components start-
ing from plane slabs up to walls, supports, fundaments or even bridge abut-
ments, tunnel slabs or other complex components.
Functionalities (Features)
Any command can be reached using tool boxes, menus or the command line.
An existing AutoCAD drawing or a DXF-File can serve as formwork for the con-
struction / design. Any line can be used as formwork (edge): there are no limits
regarding layer, color or line style. Walls from the Architectural Desktop can also
serve as formwork edge.
Intelligent Cursor
When selecting formworks, a so called intelligent cursor is available for easing
the entry. The intelligent cursor serves to automatically consider a concrete cover
in the correct direction, when working with fomworks. When the clicked on form-
work edge lays beneath the pickbock within the border, a concrete cover will be
considered for the edge – on the side of the reticle. The information, which con-
crete cover will be used, appears at the cursor, when briefly stopping over the
line.
Editing Commands
Editing Commands can be found, just like in Windows, in an object related right-
click menu. Therefore it is guaranteed, that any editing options can directly be
started from the object.
Several objects can be changed at once, with the AutoCAD Property Dialogue. A
brief description concerning this matter can be found in the chapter Property
Dialogue (Extract from the AutoCAD-Online-Help) on Page 54.

Construction Stages
By entering a name for a construction stage in the parameters, a new one will
automatically be generated and currently set. Should up to now, construction
stages not have been entered, the current one will be assigned to the existing
reinforcement objects. New objects are generally assigned with the currently set
construction stage.
Only distributions, VE-Irons, and meshes get a construction stage assigned.
Steel bar extracts are not considered in this case. Therefore it’s possible to lay
one position in several construction stages. The construction stage can be
changed subsequently using either InfoEdit or the properties dialogue.
Possibilities / Options
SOFiCAD-Reinforcement offers any possibility to create arbitrary reinforcement

plans / designs.
General
Position Numbers
Position Numbers are automatically assigned by the program. Only when using
the option “Position Numbers,” a position number can explicitely be entered. By
default the next free position will be offered. Deleted positions will be reassigned
by the program when needed. With the command “Modify Steelbar” steelbars
can be repositioned and modified; single steelbars can also be repositioned sub-
sequently. Generally it’s possible to assign any position, even alphanumerical
positions.
Parameters
In the parameters, general properties can be entered. They will be saved in the
plan and can also be stored as template.
In the parameters we define for steelbar and meshes i.e. the running variable
and also the prefix or suffix for the positions. Furthermore you define the similar-
ity border and the rounding masses.
In the tab for general settings you define the properties for materials, concrete
covers and the extraxt raster. Furthermore the construction stages are created
and generated here as well.

Styles
In order to set the display of the reinforcement, there are different styles availa-
bel. Via the styles colors, text styles and line types can be configured and texts
can be defined.
Styles are stores in the corresponding drawing and can be changed at any time –
the drawing will then be updated automatically. It’s also possible to store as
many styles as required in every drawing – and the styles can be imported or
exported as you like.
If you would like to use an office standard we recommend creating an office tem-
plate with the corresponding properties. However, project related templates can
also be used.
Multiplier
With the Multiplier you can determine how often a displayed reinforcement
should be counted. Therefore you can control which laying (distribution) should
be counted for the steel list, if a position is displayed in the section (view) and as
(top) view. In order to guarantee the correct amounts, one of these layings must
have the multiplier 0.
In the case that a laying (distribution) should be counted several times i.e. upper
and lower laying, the multiplier can also be more than 1.
Steel bars
Mandrels
Basically any mandrel is available. SOFiCAD-Reinforcement offers helps to enter

the standard mandrels, any further forms are available by using so called X-Irons
(X-Bars). They can be created with any polyline or also dawn comfortable along-
side of existing formwork borders (edges).

The selection of the mandrels is carried out via the following dialogue box:
Types of Laying (Distribution)
Several methods are available to determine the amounts of layed irons. Irons or
stirrups can be distributed linearly or in the section even according to amounts.

The selection of the distribution type is also done via a dialogue box:
Amounts / Pieces
Extracts generally have the amounts of 0 as default when creating them. Only
after the distribution the amounts automatically are entered into the correspond-
ing position. To determine the amounts, any reinforcement distribution in one
position will be summed up. This is also done automatically – tracing the data list
is therefore not necessary.
Steel Bar Dimensioning
Any partial dimensions determined by the program are outer dimensions. There-
fore there are apparent differences depending on the kind of construction, when
dealing with bended bars: If the reinforcement is created with an angle corre-
sponding to the formwork (entering an alphanumerical value), the dimension X
seams to be incorrect. If the reinforcement is created with “Show the Formwork
Edge”, the angle of the bend is not coherent with the angle of the formwork. The
reason being, the bar is drawn as line with the thikness 0 in the simple display;
however in nature the diameter is not equal to 0. Depending on which scale the
bars are displayed in their correct thickness, can be configured the the steel bar
style. The following drawing clarifies the matter.

Meshes
Mesh Fields
With just a few commands, it’s possible to draw any mesh files (rectangular or
polygonal). Any required specification necessary for mesh distribution are deter-
mined in one single dialogue window. The type of distribution (single mesh, mesh
row or Mesh Filed) depends on the size of the area to be covered. Fitted
meshes- or rest meshes are automatically generated and positioned correspond-
ingly. The commands „Single Mesh“ and „Mesh Row“ are only required if meshes
of a certain size should be distributed or if mesh positionings shoud be gener-
ated. Any current meshes are available by default, however any other mesh type
can also be defined. Once defined, list meshes can also be used without prob-
lems.
Meshes can be distributed in the main view, secondary view, in the 2nd Layer and
as positioning. When displaying the mesh view, the user can choose between
single meshes and mesh field display.
Changing the dimensions of the meshes already distributed is possible without
incurring troubles. Besides the usual editing commands (such as Strech, Move,
Scale), the distribution on a modified plan view can easily be adapted by using
so called grips. When meshes are created new, the program always checks
whether a similar or equal mesh does exist already. The rounding- or similarity
values can be chosen arbitrarily via parameters.
Changes at already distributed mesh reinforcement (mesh type, lapping rein-
forcement lengths etc) are made with the command “InfoEdit”. Any changes can
be made very comfortably in a dialogue window.

Stirrup Meshes
The mandrel of stirrup meshes is done with the steel bar commands. To distrib-
ute them, the mesh distribution commands are used.
Fitted Meshes are thereby automatically generated. Just like any reinforcement
as well, the stirrup meshes are also updated when changing components.
List Meshes
With SOFiCAD Reinforcement, you have the possibility to create and to distribute
List Meshes. The SOFiCAD Reinforcement needs a plan database for this task.
The database can be generated with the command “Generate Plan Definition” or
“Include Plan Head”. The Plan Database stores therefore any plan containing the
same project number. For further information regarding the Plan Database,
please consult the chapter Plan Management on page 101
In order to distribute list meshes, please go ahead and use the already men-
tioned mesh distribution methods. SOFiCAD Reinforcement does not differentti-
ate in the further course between List Meshes and Standard Meshes. Once List
Meshes have been distributed, they cannot be changed.

Working Method
To generate reinforcement plans using SOFiCAD Reinforcement, we recommend

the following method:
In the Layout tab create the desired view window for your plan. There you should
also determine the desired scales for the plan to be plotted. Now you can add the
reinforcement within the window according to the following description. To dis-
play the reinforcement the determined scale will be taken over for the corre-
sponding windows. This way, you can see the identical plan detail in different
scaling i.e. in the top view or in detail. Furthermore in the layout tab you can
correct any settings for your stiles and adapt the plan to it. The entered text
heights are always referring to the plotted scale.
With SOFiCAD Reinforcement you can also work with building the plan up in the
model tab and with secondary scales as well of course. However this option is
only available in connection with a Design module. A brief description concerning
this matter can be found in the chapter Setup in the Model Tab on page 95.
In order to work seamless with steel lists and list meshes, SOFiCAD Reinforce-
ment requires a plan database. You can generate it with the command “Generate
Plan Definition” when working without the Design Module. In the plan database
any plan located in the same directory and containing the same project number
will be stored. Should you work with the Design module, please add a plan head
into your drawing. Please check the Design Module manual for further informa-
tion.

Command Reference

Reingorcement ->
BFE-Show Inserts FE-analysis of the
slab/wall in the drawing
Steel List Generates a steel list from

the reinforcement elements
of the drawing (external
program)
Insert Bending List Insterts the bendin list gen-
erated with the steel list into
the plan or updates the
already existing list after
changes
Bar Spacer Insterts Bar Spacer into the
drawing They will also be
taken over into the steel list.
Browse Steel Bars or Browse Meshes With this command you can
browse through the single
positions
Mesh Style or Steel Bar Style You can set how the steel
bars or the meshes should
be displayed.
Position With this command the

positioning can distributed
again
Hide Position Serves to hide certain posi-

tions
Info Synopsis of the existing

positions: which are already
assigned for steel bars or

meshes, describes each

position and gives out the
present amounts.
Parameter Plan related settings can be
made here. They can also
be stored in a template file.
Automatical Steel Bar Distribution from Based on a present FEA-
FEA analysis, a steel bar rein-
forcement can automatically
be generated.
Automatical Steel Bar Distribution A slab can automatically be
reinforced based on any
FEA-values

Steel Bars
Reinforcement ->
Generate Extract With this command any type of
mandrels can be created
Generate Distribution This command allowes to gener-

ate any type of distribution / Lay-
ing
Connecting Elements Connecting Elements can be
amplified with connecting ele-
ments. Posisitons with connecting
elements are listed separately in
the steel list
Change Diameter of Mandrel Special diameters of mandrel can
be defined for single posisitons.
Per mandrel only one diameter of
mandrel is allowed.
Bar Bundle Bars in section can be converted
to bar bundles
Bent-ups This symbol serves to determine
whether a bar bents out of or into
the drawing level.
End Marker Endmarker to clarify the bars in
the view.
Estract Grid Any extract can be arranged in an

extract grid (raster). New positions
will automatical added.

Meshes

Reinforcement ->
Meshes general With this command, any
rectangular space can be
filled with meshes. Overlap-
ings will automatically be
created.
Single Mesh Serves to create single
meshes or positions.
Polygonal Mesh Distribution/Laying With this command, any

space can be distributed /
layed with meshes.
Stirrup mesh Serves to generate stirrup
meshes.
List Mesh Serves to generate list

meshes – they are adminis-
tered / managed project
depending.

Steel List SOFiCAD
Steel List
The program WINSTLI allows creating steel lists for round steel and Meshes with
bar spaces and build-in components. The amout of steel and built-in components
are stored in the SOFiCAD-Project file. The program WINSTLI allowes a
compilation of these amounts.
Functionality
In a steel list different types of steel and meshes can be used. Separate steel
lists are created for this. The material types can be assigned globally or for every
position.
For the output of the lists we can have three options:
• The single positions will be listes successively. A column will
be created for each diameter. The amounts of the pintable
columns depends on the chosen paper / page formate.
Should the page be too small, the type 3 will be chosen for
the output.
• Any position of a diameter or mesh type will be compiled in
one table.
• Any position will be ordered according to their number suc-
cessively. Subsequently a table will be created for the sum
of the single diameters or meshes.
Mandrel lists can be generated for the steel positions and for the bent meshes.
Cutting sketches can be created for the meshes.
The bar diameters with the weights per running meter, the mesh types with the
weight per m2 and the bar spaces with their weights are stored by the user in the
editable file SOFSTLI.TAB.
Working Method
The steel list WINSTLI can directly be opend from the module SOFiCAD Rein-
forcement. It’s also possible to create steel lists for reinforcement plans, which
were not drawn with SOFiCAD. In this case, WINSTLI can be opened as an in-
dependent program.

Foundations SOFiCAD
Foundations
SOFiCAD Foundations is an additional module to SOFiCAD Reinforcement and

allowes drawing and reinforcing single and sleve foundations.
The results of dimensioning and rating can directly be taken over from the
SOFiSTiK analysis program FUND.
The created reinforecement can undergo further editing using the editing com-
mands of SOFiCAD Reinforcement
Functionality
• Drawing and reinforcing any type of single foundations with

or without sleve
• Sleve or support connections can be assymetrically
• Fully automatical generation of the concrete cover
• Fully automatical reinforcement
• Automatical taking over the data from the SOFiSTiK program
FUND
• File for handing over can be created with any text editor
All of this combined results in an entire drawing in just a few minutes, if a hand-
ing over file does exist.
Working Method
Any information concerning diemsion and reinforcement of the foundation are

taken from a handing over file which can be created with the SOFiSTiK analysis
program FUND or manually. Without this handling over file, the program will ask
for the required values in a dialogue.
The reinforcement is done according to „Leonhardt, Lecture about reinforced
concrete construction, third part: Basics about reinforced concret construction
(Single Foundations for Supports) 3.Edition 1977” – [“Leonhardt, Vorlesung über
Massivbau, dritter Teil: Grundlagen zum Bewehren im Stahlbetonbau (Einzelfun-
damente für Stützen)]
Should punching reinforcement be required, the program will make a reinforce-
ment proposal and alternatively offers and increase of the flexural reinforcement.
For the constructive reinforcement alternatives are offered as well. Any rein-
forcement proposals can be replaced by own statements.

Foundations SOFiCAD
Single foundations that were created in this way can be edited and changed
according to your demands at any time.

RoSy SOFiCAD
RoSy
For planar slab disks, i.e. floor slabs or ceiling slabs time and again one has to
decide: should I choose a reinforcement, that adapts direction true to the course
of the principal moment – this is statically desireable, but it requires a lot of effort;
or should I choose a statical infavourable orthogonal reinforcement mesh, which
again is very easy to design.
Differnt types of circular reinforcements
Central Reinforcement: widely orthogonale arrangement of the reinforcement
for the middle area of the circular slab.
Radial Reinforcement: Radial Reinforcement is fan formed arranged around the
center of the slab. Minimal and maximum distances of the single bars are con-
sidered of course and the bars will automatically be staggered.
Ring Reinforcement: The Ring Reinforcement is the circular formation of rein-
forcement arranged around the slabs center.
The methods can also be combined.
The created reinfocement is now ready for further processing with the SOFiCAD
editing commands.

RoSy SOFiCAD
Functionality
RoSy is a module developed out of the practise for the practise. It offers any
possibility to create the optimum reinforcement for circular- and circular ring
slabs, cones, funnels etc. Diverse editing options allow for a fast adaptation of
the reinforcement to the statical, constructive and economical demands.
Projects worked on so far:
Prestressed concrete digester con- Purification plant Eisenhüttenstadt (DE)
tainer
Prestressed concrete Biogas reactors MAV Gent, Belgium
Whole grain silo Agricultural company in Neustadt a.d.

Donau (DE)
Post purification basin Purification plant Kückhoven (DE)
... ...
Options
Those who have already dealt with direction true rotation-symmetrical reinforce-
ment constructions of circular slabs and also in this context with circular ring
slabs, cones and funnels etc, know the probelems encountered with this type of
reinforcement. Without RoSy, the constructor does not have an other option than
aiming at an approximation, which is very time intensive until reaching a satisfac-
tory solution.

RoSy SOFiCAD
Working Method
After starting RoSy, the following dialogue box ap-

pears:
Here you can configure the settings. Afterwards the reinforcement distribution
has to be analyzed.

RoSy SOFiCAD
Now the reinforcement only has to be finished.

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
BAMTEC
BAMTEC is a trademark and stands for reinforcement trimming machine tech-

nology (Bewehrungs-Abbund-Maschinen-Technologie).
BAMTEC-Elements are used to reinforce steel concrete slabs or floor slabs,
rather than using conventional steel meshes. They exclusively contain uniaxial
distributed round steels, which are connected with transversal straps to one as-
sembly unit.
BAMTEC builds up on the area round steel reinforcement, very often applied in
the steel concrete design. However it uses any possibility of data processing
technology in the engineering offices as well as technologies applied for assem-
bly mashines in the reinforcemnt producing companies.
The Finite Elemente Analysis FEA and desiging with CAD are symbiotically com-
bined in BAMTEC.
When using BAMTEC the the structural engineer is also the work preperator for
the executing companies.
How does BAMTEC work?
During the conventional procedure of reinforcing steel concrete slabs, simple
reinforcement elements such as round steels or construction steel meshes are
determined one by one in the plan, they will be prepared in the bending com-
pany, positioned, delivered and built in at the construction site by a construction
unit.
The BAMTEC element system dramatically changes this procedure. The posi-
tiond single bars or single meshes are no longer delivered to the construction
site. BAMTEC uses entire reinforcement layers (carpets) which have been “taylor
made” for the customer.
A seperate BAMTEC element will be designed, produced, delivered and built in
for every reinforcement direction.
These BAMTEC elements are usually roled out in a right angle to each other.
The rolls contain parallel round steels which are connected to each other with a
tranversal strap. This means in the lower and upper reinforcement two rolls each
are required – resulting in a total of 4 rols.
The reinforcement layers do not consist of standard elements, but they are indi-
vidually produced for the floor plan and the corresponding use.
The upper irons for beam reinforcement, the lower reinforcement layers of slab
disks as well as framing irons for block outs can be integrated into the BAMTEC
elements.

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
BAMTEC can also be applied for semi finished parts (i.e. filigree floors) or holorip
slabs – however in this case only for the top layers.
By now, the laying of the reinforcement takes up about 20% of the time of con-
ventional reinforcement layings.
Full mashine
A file containing the data of the finished are reinforcement has to be handed over
to the BAMTEC producer as file.
The BAMTEC machine will be controlled with these data. The BAMTEC elements
are produced fully automatically. Bars up to a diameter of 14 (16) mm of the coil
can be processed.
What has to be taken into account when using BAMTEC?
When designing with BAMTEC, one has to take into account that the BAMTEC
elements need to be roled out without obstacles in their way.
Support connections can be built up including the sleeve joints. However the
elements can often be rolled out inbetween the supports.
Hanger-reinforcements are built in subsequently with the angle form. Beam links
have to be open and complemented with U-bars subsequently etc.
Functionality
The reinforcement plan can optionally be created in accordance with the existing
FE-analysis or fuly automatically with the indicated reinforcement values.
In the upper and lower reinforcement layer, one BAMTEC element will be dimen-
sioned for each laying / distribution direction, which exactly corresponds to the
required reinforcement.
The position of the single bars will be determined seperately. Any lap joint within
one BAMTEC element is obsolete.
The bars are welded together with a transversal strap made of flat steel in
BAMTEC elements and they will be transported in rolls to the construction site.
The reinforcement can exactly be staggered according to the FE analysis con-
sidering DIN 1045. Every bar can have a different length.
SOFiCAD-BAMTEC automatically creates any required plan data within a draw-
ing file and thereby uses any AutoCAD functionality of the layout.

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
Rollout plan
On the Rollout-Plan the single BAMTEC elements are displayed in the floor plan,
with a scale of 1:50 in the way they should be rolled out. Additionally the on top
required reinforcement are indicated (roundsteel or meshes) in the scale of 1:50.
This plan is designated for the construction site.

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
Check Plan
Any area reinforcement of one layer is compiled in the checking plan. This is
done on a seperate plan for each reinforcement direction. Therefore 4 checking
plans are required for one slab. Those plans are neither required for the con-
struction site nor for the iron bending manufacturor. They serve as a control for
the engineering office, for the checking engineer and for the reinforcement in-
spection at the construction site.

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
Production Plan
The production plan contains the display of an area reinforcement element. It
contains any details to produce a BAMTEC element such as the posistion and
the bars diameters. This plan only serves to produce the BAMTEC elements in
the iron bending factory. It is not necessary at the construction site. In the fully
automatically production the production plan serves as a control.
The mashine that bends the irons receives the information from the reinforce-
ment file.
WorkingMethod
At first the carpets for the slabs to be reinforeced are created - then they are
subdivided into reasonable partial geometries (single areas).
When creating the geometry, one has to take into account, that they need to be
designed in a way that they can be rolled out without any problems at the con-
struction site.
Therefore one has to pay attention that the reinforcement elements are not get-
ting wider in the roll out direction – they should rather have the same size (if
possibel) or get smaller.
In order to guarantee a clean and even rolling out of the BAMTEC elements at
the construction site (i.e. a re-entrant corner at rising cover), it’s appropriate to

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
sensibly define the BAMTECT elements geometry during the design process.
Elements that stand out should be avoided.

BAMTEC SOFiCAD
Command Reference

BAMTEC ->
BFE-Show Adds the FE analysis if the
slab into the drawing
Create Carpet Creates a carpet without FE

analysis
Create Carpet from FE analysis Creates a carpet according

to the FE analysis
Divide Carpet Serves to divide the carpet

to enable a rooling out
Change rolling directionRollrichtung Turns the rolling direction of

ändern the carpet around
Change Diameter Changes the diameter of

single bars
New analysis of the carpet Re-analysis the carpet
Sort carpets Re-sorts the carpets
Update production plans Updates the layouts of the

production plans
Disolve carpet in origin Dissolves the carpet in steel

bars (only available if
SOFiCAD Reinforcement is
loaded)
Create machine control files Creates the machin control
files for any carpet in one
directory

Alignment SOFiCAD
Alignment
SOFiCAD-V is the module for alignment in the SOFiCAD product family. With this
module you can cover any concern of traffic constructions such as roads or rail.
Axis, gradients and cross fall bands can be created very simply by entering pa-
rameters in the dialogue or by importing them. Axes are compiled of the ele-
ments straight, arc and clothoides. The possibility to define standard cross sec-
tions and thereby achieving a deck height (book) as well as the functionality con-
cerning coordinate systems / alignment points round the whole topic off.
Target User
Every engineering office that handles projects with regard to axes, be it road, or
railway axes. SOFiCAD-V can be the solution, especially in the cases where road
construction is not the emphasis and the high costs of complex alignments don’t
pay off.
However the module is virtually predestinated to bridge design. The planning of
alignment is then already present and sections of axis as well as gradient and
the cross falling band are simply handed over. The handing over of the data wil is
done as a file or a list of parameters.
Elements for axes and gradients can directly be imported into SOFiCAD-V with
the interfaces to data type DA001 for land points, card type KA021 and gradients
and KA040 for axes. Additionally an own variable interface is available – with it
it’s possible to import other formats and to generate SOFiCAD-V elements.

Alignment SOFiCAD
Bridge cross sections, abutments and clearance diagrams can be defined into a
standard cross section from a polyline. Standard cross sevtions only have to be
defined once. They can be managed via a catalogue and thereby they can be
made available to other users. Defined standard cross sections can seperately
be inserted at any station or in an interval at an axis. At the same station an
arbitray amount of different standard cross ections can be inserted.

Alignment SOFiCAD
When defining a standard cross section, it can receive levels. The absolute
heights will imediately be analyzed for the level and they will appear in the sys-
tem tree. From there they can be exported into an ASCII file (Deck Height Book),
which can be inserted into the drawing as text.
Inserted standard cross sections can additionally be displayed in the section view
i.e. in the secondary scale together with the SOFiCAD level marks.
Any coordinate system can be defined and assigned to these alignment points.
As the Coordinate systems can be oriented in any direction and they can have
additional constants, it’s possible to design in the country system as well as in
the local system. As the alignment points can be analyzed independently of
their proper system in the coordinates of any system, a coordinate transformation
is conducted by the way. Should the point’s refere to an axis the station of the
plumb foot point, the measure and the height are automatically given out. The
fixed heights of imported land points (DA001) are marked with an asterix *.

Alignment SOFiCAD
Koordinaten im lokalen System X_Y
Punkte des Systems X_Y
Nr Y X Station Abrückmaß Höhe
1494 42503.831 42118.930 1+20.701 7.027 123.179*

1619 42502.251 42120.085 1+19.121 5.872 123.188*
1620 42502.140 42119.515 1+19.010 6.442 123.129*
1621 42497.307 42121.732 1+14.177 4.225 123.126*
1622 42493.785 42123.040 1+10.655 2.917 123.146*
1651 42499.963 42120.935 1+16.833 5.022 123.189*
1652 42498.305 42121.504 1+15.175 4.453 123.202*
Punkte des Systems T_Z
Nr Z T Station Abrückmaß Höhe
1 42499.872 42140.542 1+16.742 -14.584 100.411

2 42511.866 42138.259 1+28.736 -12.301 101.041
3 42532.997 42126.844 1+49.867 -0.887 102.460
4 42546.133 42127.415 1+63.003 -1.458 103.091

Alignment SOFiCAD
Command Reference

Alignment ->
Define Alignment Generates alignment
Draw Axis Generates axis via entering

the parameters in the dia-
logue
Axis from Polyline Generates an axis by show-
ing a polylines
Draw gradient Generates gradients via

entering the parameters in
the dialogue
Draw corss-fal band Generates cross fall band
via entering the parameters
in dialogue
Insert station(s) Inserts additional station
blocks singles or in interval
Define area Assigns an area of an axis

to an standard cross section
Define standard cross section Defines a standard cross

section from a polylines
Insert standard cross section Inserts a standard cross

section assigned to an axis
– either single or interval
Define alignment points Generates a coordinate
system or alignment points
assigned to it
Mofify alignment points Allowes changing and as-
signment of alignment
points to coordinate sys-
tems and a re-numbering

Alignment SOFiCAD
Set the local coordinate system Allowes designing in locals

(i.e. country specific) coor-
dinates
Analyze coordinates Hands out the alignment
points coordinates and if
applicable distance, station
and height in an ASCII file
Point info Hands out the coordinates
and if applicable distance,
station and height for the
shown point
Import of ASCII files Inserts files as text into
drawing
System tree Displays the SOFiCAD-V

elements of the drawing
hyrachical
Update system tree Traces any SOFiCAD-V
element
Update bdd Takes over the changes

made in the SOFICADV.bdd

Steel Design SOFiCAD
Steel Design
The SOFiCAD Steel Design module is a compliment for designers and engineers
that allowes to quickly create overview and shop drawings with the correspond-
ing piece lists for small and midle sized steel designs.
Functionality
Any command can be reached via tool boxes, pull down menus or the command
line. Due to similar dialogue boxes the module is very easy to learn and can be
handeld in a short contraction time.
Usual and current steel design profiles can be drawn as section, in the view (also
top view) and they can be handed out in a piece list. Standard connections such
as edge joints and angular joints with the corresponding girder notches can eas-
ily be generated.
In the piece list, generated upon command, the main and secondary positions
will be listed.
Possibilities
Project Data Base
In the drawing directory a project data base will be generated for every new pro-
ject. When saving the drawing SOFiCAD-S writes the sum of the weights and the
area of coating for every steel design position in the data base.

Drawing and Editing Profiles
With SOFiCAD-S you can insert into the plan any current steel design profile and
therefore position them optimaly via different base points. Furthermore you can
choose between the real and the symbolic display.
A variety of commands allowes changing the profiles i.e. bevel, more oblique,
more rectangular and dull joint, framework and notches.
Steel Sheets and Joints

Steel Sheets:
• Rectangular, round and arbitrary form
Rigidity/Stiffen
• Entering rigidities for I-Profile in section and in view
Joints:
• End plate joints, girder joint with angles
Screws//Bores:
• Screws can be aligned in a rectangular or round form or sin-
gle screws can be generated. The following screws are avai-
lable in the program:

• Raw Screws (DIN 7990), fitted screws (Passschrauben) (DIN

7968), HV-Screws (DIN 6914), HV-fitted screws (DIN 7999),
Cylinder head screws (DIN 912), countersank screws (DIN
7991)
• The screw length will be determined automatically.
Welds
• Welds and weld symbols are available via the SOFiCAD
catalogue manager
Labeling and Position Management
Labeling
• The labeling of the single steel objects will be inserted with
the profile, the steel sheet or with the joint. During the course
of further editing, the labeling will automatically be updated.
Position Management
• The steel design objects are managed maually or automati-
cally upon demand and they are traced in a piece list. The
positioning is structures in main and secondary positions with
and without numbering.
Working Method
In order to create steel design plans with SOFiCAD Steel Design, we recommend
using the following method:
• Create the desired view window for your plan in the Layout
Tab. A brief description fort his matter can be found in the
chapter Setup in the Layout Tab on page 90 .
Of course you can also work in the model tab including the secondary
scales. A brief description to this matter can be found in the chapter Setup
in the Model Tab on page 95.
• Now you can draw the steel girders with the command
Draw Profile and change them with the various options via
Change Profile. Profiles can easily be positioned with the

base points and with the help of the system lines (grid). Sub-
sequently you can enter the steel sheets, rigidities and the
joints. In the end you could ask for a piece list and insert it
into the drawing.

Command Reference
Icon Menu Brief description

Steel Design ->
Draw Profile The dialogue box contains different

tabs, where settings concerning type,
view and labeling can be made.
Edit Profile Profiles can be edited subsequently
and the profile type or length can be
changed. The labeling is traced auto-
matically.
Change Profile -> With this command you can stretch or
stretch/reduce reduce a profile in the view. Should the
profile not end exactly at the line, you
can define a distance.
Change Profile -> Joint -> Dull With the command „Dull Joit“you can
Joint connect the end of two profiles, if their
ends are straight or in a flat angle to
each other.
Change Profile -> Joint -> With the command „Bevel“ two profiles
Bevel can be joint on bevel in the view.
Change Profile -> Framework -> With this command a profile can be
Framework 1 in 2 connected with two existing ones,
where the two remain unchanged.
Change Profile -> Type and With the command „Type and Radius
radius of notch of Notch“ you can create the notch
with a rounded coving or bored notch
at the end of the profile.
Change Profile -> Automatical The command “Automatical Notch”
notch automatically creates notches at the
end of O-Profiles
Rigidity/Stiffen In order to stiffen I-Profiles, rigidities
are drawn in the section and in the
view with this command. The rigidities
cannot be aligned nor can the be
aligned at a connected profile.

Draw connection -> I-girder This command allowes to create I-

connection with angles grider connections with angles in dif-
ferent views. In the dialogue window
or
the settins for arrangement, profile
Draw connection -> end plate type, screw types and views are made.
connection
Draw Screws/Bores -> Rectangu- An arrangement of bores and screw
lar arrangement fittings in rectangular arrangement will
be created. Optionally also a steel
sheet will be inserted.
Draw Scres/Bores -> Circular A circular arrangement of Screw fiit-
arrangement ings/Bores will be created. Optionaly
also a steel sheet will be inserted.
Draw Screws/Bores ->Single A single screw will be inserted.
Screw
Catalogue ManagerWeldings With the catalogue manager weldings,

you can insert weldings with the corre-
sponding welding symbol.
Catalogue Manager Welding Via the catalogue manager welding
Symbols symbols you can apply the corre-
sponding labellings and welding
strength to the welding.
Positioning -> Trace With this con, the internal data list will
always be kept up-to-date. In the list
information such as position number,
multiplier, type, dimension etc. are
stored.
Piece list The command piece list calculates the
piece list out of the internal data list.
Any position of the current plan is
considered. Optionally you can give
out a compilation of the positions
where the total weight and the sum of
the coated areas are listed.

Mass Determination SOFiCAD
Mass Determination
SOFiCAD Mass Determination is very easy to handle yet it’s extremely flexible in
its use. Complex areas and curvature analyses are precisely carried out by the
program.
The program allowes a fast and comprehensive determination of masses from
any AutoCAD drawing. AutoCAD basic objects such as lines, archs and polylines
can be connected with attributes and their value will automatically be adapted to
the dimensions of these objects. Basic forms such as rectangle, circle details and
trapezoids are recognized and listed comprehensible. The output is done via
tables or directly into different office applications.
The program is suited for cost calculations, curvature analyses, room labeling
and area usage proofs.
Functionality
It enables the comprehensible mass determination from any AutoCAD drawing

with individual adaptabilities for the most different tasks.
Automaticaly contour recognition to analyze areas. Output in tables via free con-
figurable templates or directly to MS Access or MS Excel. Due to the clipboard
support the data sets can be exported into any Windows program. The program
contains an example catalogue with room stamps and position blocks. Com-
mands are available that link the stamp with drawing objects. Special commands
are available which allow determining wall curvatures.
Working Method
The AutoCAD objects are linked through commands with stamps containing the
corresponding attributes. Objects can be added subsequently using the mass
dialogue. Any set of data can be applied with a factor. Furthermore a variety of
analysis methods are available.
For the mass export, the current geometry data in the drawing will be determined
and the analysis will then be carried out. The results can be filtered and formated
using templates.

Command Reference

Mass Determination ->
Room stamp new The command automatically assig-
nes room areas and circumferences
to a room stamp. First the desired
room stamp will be selected and
placed. Then the room dividing
polyline can be created by simply
showing the polyline or by clicking
in the room. If the circumstances
call for it, the line will automatically
be divided into comprehensive
parts.
Exchange stamps This command allowes to exchange
stamps (blocks with attributes)
without loss of data i.e. after chang-
ing the scale.
Assign Edit Masses With this command you can re-
assign positions and stamps with
new mass objects and thereby
changing or deleting existing links.

After entering the command, show

a block with attributes (stamp) or an
object with mass assignment.
Assign Mass Positions This command allowes to assign
any drawing object to posiions.
Position numbers, -labeling and -
units can be read out from tables.
Create Wall Masses This command allowes to create
mass information from existing wall
lines.
Substract openings WIth this command it’s possible to
determine the openings for walls for
mass determination.
Change single mass After calling the command, select
an object in the drawing which is
already linked to an attribute or that
should be linked to an attribute.
Delete single mass The command deletes single mass
assignment of a drawing object.
Trace Masses With this command you can update
the masses of selected stamps or
optionally any linked attribute in the
drawing.
Export commands
Table Output The output into tables requires a so
called SOFiCAD template (file end-
ing: .SOS). It describes the ar-
rangement of attributes and analy-
sis approaches in the output list.
The generated data sets are written
into the clipboard and can be cop-
ied with “Edit -> Insert” into any
application.
Export to Excel Besides the table export which is
also suited for Excel, data sets can
also be exproted to Excel with addi-
tional formating comands. The used
workbook will be registered in
AutoCAD; therefore a subsequen-

tial data synchonisation is always

possible.
Export to Access Here, a data export to an Access
data base (MDB) is carried out. The
file uses the same file name as the
drawing, however with the ending
.mdb.
Update Masses in or from Data can be synchonized from
Excel SOFiCAD to Excel or vice versa.
Update Masses from Access This command allowes updating
data sets from Access to SOFiCAD.

VBA SOFiCAD
VBA
Functionality
VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) is a programmming language developed by

Microsoft, in order to extend applications such as AutoCAD or MSWord. The
base for this language is a BASIC-Dialect, which is complemented with applica-
tion specific elements. Every software vendor can license VBA from Microsoft
and use it with his applications.
Contrary to AutoLISP, which has already been integrted into AutoCAD for very
long, VBA only came with R14.01 to AutoCAD. However it can only realy be
used since the release AutoCAD 2000. There are two substantial differences to
AutoLISP: First - interface elements such as dialogue boxes that follow the Win-
dow Style Guide are easily created and they integrate seamless into the system.
Second: it’s much easier to combine several applications to one function. An
example for it is an Excel-table that specifies which layer in a drawing should
how be changed, in order to change the drawing from the engineering office
standard to the clients CAD standard. A VBA application can easily change dif-
ferent drawings, wereas only a new table is required to support an additional
standard. The editor of the table only has to know how to use Excel effectively –
he does not need to understand the VBA-application.
Use with AutoCAD
New VBA-applications, often called Macros, are created in the VBA-DIE (Inte-
grated Developer Environment). To call it up, simply follow the menu Extras –
Macros – Visual Basic or use the command _vbaide. A new window will open
in the VBA environment. It is possible, that a VBA-project has already been
loaded, for example, SOFiCAD.B uses some VB-functions, should this bet he
case a new projects should be created using the VBA-Manager (can also be
found under Macros).
In order to load an existing project, use load Project in Macros–Menu or use the
command _vbaload. In the following dialogue box, that queries whether macros
contained in the file should be activated, the hook should not be turned off. Un-
fortunately it’s very easy to embed VBA-macros directly into a drawing and
thereby programming a virus. Therefore one should carefully think over, if the risk
is justified.
In order to run a macro, use the menu Macro or the command _vbarun. In the
then appearing list the macro to be run can be chosen. As any existing macro is
listed there, strong names are recommended for projects and macros.

VBA SOFiCAD
Example for VBA in AutoCAD: Layer
To stick to the example from above, the first VBA example shows, how to create
anew layer with the color „RED“. For it, generate as already described a new
project and call it LayerRot. To name a project, in the project explorer (the win-
dow with the headline Project – ACADProject) select the project and enter the
name in the properties window as property value (Name).
Before a new macro is created one should activate the variable declaration
required which can be found at Extras – Options. Then use the menu Macros
in Extras to create a new Macro and call it Create. A new text window will open
with a few lines, the actual macro can be found beween Sub Create() and End
Sub.

VBA SOFiCAD
An example program to create a new layer LayerRot and to set to color Red
looks like this:
Sub Create()
Dim Layer As AcadLayer
Set Layer = ThisDrawing.Layers.Add("LayerRot")
Layer.Color = acRed
End Sub
The line with Dim defines a new variable Layer, which should take up a refer-
ence to the layer. Subsequently the layer will be generated. Should the layer
already exist, the variable will be assigned to the existing layer. Subsequently the
Property Color of Layer will be set to acRed. acRed is a pre-defined variable,
which corresponds to the AutoCAD color red.
Example fro VBA in AutoCAD: Line
Of course, VBA cannot only modify the layer table, one can alo create new ob-
jects or query entries from the users. For this case a Macro that creates a line
and queries from the user a point to create a second line, which connects the
first with the shown point.
Even if the macro could easily be inserted into the project LayerRot, it’s better to
define a new project, with the name ZeichneLinie. Then it can easily be found
again later. How to define a now project, please check in the chapter Use with
AutoCAD on page 148. Also this time you should define a new macro and call it
Zeichne. The required commands to draw a line from point (0, 0, 0) to (1, 1, 0)
will then look like:
Sub Zeichne()
Dim StartPt(0 To 2) As Double
Dim EndPt(0 To 2) As Double
StartPt(0) = 0
StartPt(1) = 0
StartPt(2) = 0
EndPt(0) = 1
EndPt(1) = 1
EndPt(2) = 0
ThisDrawing.ModelSpace.AddLine StartPt, EndPt

End Sub

VBA SOFiCAD
As you can see, points are always defines as field of Double with the borders 0
up to 2. The borders are checked by AutoCAD – you therefore may not use 1 to
3 (what should be the usual with VBA). After the points have been assigned to
their coordinates, one can create a line. For this example the line will be created
in the ModelSpace / Tab.
Amplify the macro with the following lines (insert directly before End Sub):
Dim UserPt As Variant

Dim EndPtUCS As Variant
EndPtUCS = ThisDrawing.Utility.TranslateCoordinates
(EndPt, acWorld, acUCS, 0)
UserPt = ThisDrawing.Utility.GetPoint(EndPtUCS, "Bitte
Punkt zeigen")
ThisDrawing.ModelSpace.AddLine EndPt, UserPt
In this program piece an entry is queried from the user with the function Get-
Point. The first parameter (EndPtUCS) can be used in order to draw a rubber
band line; the second parameter is the text of the entry query on the command
line. To the contrary of the Autodesk documentation the point must be handed
over to the user coordinates. Therefore the end point of the first line (EndPt) has
to be translated from world to user coordinates. For it we use the function Trans-
lateCoordinates. Now we also use the data type Variant for the first time. A
variable of the type Variant can take up any data type and is often used a return
value for points. If you define points by yourself, it’s usually simpler to use the
above stated fields. GetPoint also delivers the point in the form of a Variant. In
order to also use this point, an other line will be created, which connects the end
point of the first line with the entered point.
VBA and SOFiCAD Reinforcement
Not only AutoCAD objects can be programmed with VBA, even some of the
SOFiCAD modules support it. Especially ample is the support for Reinforcement.
The new introduced reinforcement entry with the version 15.3 almost exculsiv-
eley uses the same functions to create new elements, which you can also use
from VBA.
To demonstrate only a few options, we will show here how to create an extract
A1 and a distribution of it.
First, create again a new macro, this time call it Bewehrung. Then you should
tell the program that you would like to use the SOFiCAD-B function. For it, use

VBA SOFiCAD
the menu Extras – Verweise (cross reference) search the list for SOFBOLE
and activate the checkmark. Should SOFBOLE not appear in the list, please use
the Search… function in the dialogue box in order to select it. It should be in the
directory where you’ve installed SOFiCAD-B. The file to be selected is called
SOFBOle.tlb.
Furthermore you neew a global variable with the name SOFiCADB_App, which
is defined in the following way:
Public SOFiCADB_App As Object
Additionally define the function GetSOFBApp:
Function GetSOFBApp() As Object

If SOFiCADB_App Is Nothing Then
'Applikationsobjekt holen
On Error Resume Next
Set GetSOFBApp = GetObject(, "SOFiCADB.Application")
If (Err.Number <> 0) Then
Err.Clear
Set SOFiCADB_App = CreateObject ("SOFi-
CADB.Application")
Set GetSOFBApp = SOFiCADB_App
If Err.Number <> 0 Then
MsgBox "Bitte starten sie die Bewehrung und ru-
fen sie das Makro erneut auf."
End
End If
Err.Clear
End If
On Error GoTo 0
Else
Set GetSOFBApp = SOFiCADB_App
End If
End Function
This function serves to make contact with SOFiCAD-B. Its exact function should
not be described in depth here. It’s enough to know, that calling the function
always deliveres an object which allowes access to the Reinforcement functions.
The entire macro will then look like this:

VBA SOFiCAD
Sub Bewehrung()
Dim Extract As ISOF_RC_A1Extract
Dim App As SOF_B_App
Set App = GetSOFBApp

Set Extract = App.createA1Extract(, 10, "", 1.2)
Dim Laying As ISOF_RC_LinearLaying2

Set Laying = App.createLinearLayingForPos (Ex-
tract.Position, 2, 25, 1.2)
End Sub
This macro only generates an A1-extract and a linear distribution for it. Both are
arranged at the point 0. In order to set attributes, there is a large variety of func-
tions, which can be found in the VBA Object Catalogue (Menu View).

Index
Index
.bk1 71 AutoLISP 192
.ctb 69 Automatic Saves 71
.dwg 71 Automatical Steel Bar

Distribution 141
.mdb 120
AutoSnap 65
.stb 70
AutoTrack 67
.sv$ 71
Axis 110
.wmf 72
BAMTEC 157
3D->2D 93, 112
Bar Bundle 144
Absteckpunkte 173
Bar Spacer 138, 149
Access 90, 191
Base Functions 80
acRed 194
Base Point 58
Ad-a-Plotter Wizzard 69
BASIC-Dialekt 192
Administrator Rights 18, 37
Bending 133
Alignment Path 67
Bending List 128, 137
Amount of Layers 63
Bent-Ups 145
Amounts 133
Bewehrungs-Abbund-Maschinen-
Angular Dimension 104
Technologie 157
Application 80
Bewehrungseingabe 195
Arc Dimension 102
BFE-Show 137, 164
ASCII 174
Bleche 176
ATTDIA 75
Block References 52
Ausklinkung 181
Bohrungen 177
Authorization 45
Browse 138
Authorization File 28, 44
Built-In 90, 93
Authorization file cannot be found
Built-in Components 149
32
By Phone 11
Authorization Files, Several 29
Catalogue 90, 93
AutoCAD 51

Index SOFiCAD
Stairs 108 Datenabgleich 190

Walls 106 Default 129
Windows 107 Design Module 136
Catalogue Wizzard 93 DesignCenter 52, 64, 106, 108
Cente Line 113 Desktop 18
Center Mark 103 DIAGNOSIS 86
Chain Dimension 101 Diameter 133, 149
Change 92 Diameter of Mandrel 144
Change Properties 57 Diameters 149
Change/Repair/Remove Dimension 91
Installation 39
Dimensions 134
Client Reference Number 11, 45
Dimensionstyle 91, 92
Clipboard 72
Directory 25
CMDDIA 75
Distance 105
Compilation 149
Doubble Click 60
Complement 80
Double 195
Components 128
Double Click 85
Concept 10
Drag & Drop 93
Concrete Cover 128
Drawing Area 56
Configuration 17
Drawing Content 52
Confirming the Installation
Drawing Index 114
Configurations 35
Edit Functions 92
Connecting Elements 144
Editing Comands 128
Construction Lines 112
Editing Commands 134
Construction Stages 129
Einzelmenge 189
Constructive / Civil Engineering
128 Embankment 111
Current Layer 64 End Marker 145
Cutting 72 EndPtUCS 195
Cutting Sketches 128 Excel 190
DA001 169 Exportbefehle 190

Index
Extract Grid 146 Index Tabs 51
Extract Raster 130 Info 141
Extracting 48 InfoEdit 129

Fachwerk 180 Inner Border 98
FEM 157 Installation 17
FILEDIA 75 Installation Type 30
Finite Elemente 157 Standard 30
Fitted Meshes 134, 135 User 31
Flexibility 10 User 30
Folding Marker 90 Installing the hardlock driver 38
Formwork 128 InstallShield 20
Forum 15, 16, 48 Insulations 111
Foundations 151 Integrated Developer Environment
192
FUND 151
Intelligent Cursor 128
Gehrung 180
IntelliMouse 58
General Functionalities 51
Internet 12
Generate Distribution 143
ISAVEBAK 71
Generate Extract 143
ISAVEPERCENT 77
GetPoint 195
Joints 110
Gradiente 173
KA021 169
GRIDMODE 73
KA040 169
Grips 57
Koordinatensystem 174
Hardlock 19
Layer 63, 115
Hardlock Driver 18, 37, 44
Layer Name 63
Hardlock number 43
Layer Scheme 64
Hardlock Number 45
Layout 51, 69
Hatching 94
Layout 136
HIGHLIGHT 75
Layout Index 90
HLINFO.EXE 43
Layout Index Tab 52
Hotline 9, 10, 13

Index SOFiCAD
Lengths 128 Network 45, 46

Level Mark 91, 103 Time Limited 45, 46
Library 14 Nested Elements 62
License Agreement 24 Network Hardlock 41, 44
Linear Dimensioning 91 New Layout 52
List 106 New Profile 26
List Mesh 135, 148 Numbers 128
Local Hardlock 43, 45 Object Properties 56
Main View 134 Object Snap 60, 65
Mandrel 131 Restrictions 66
Manuals 14 Object Snap Modes 65
MBUTTONPAN 60, 78 Object Snap tracking
MEASUREMENT 79 Using 67
Mengen nachführen 189 Object Snap Tracking 67
Mengen zuordnen 188 Office Address 46
Mesh Fileds 134 Office Standard 130
Mesh Row 134 Online-Helps 14
Mesh Style 139 Operatin System Requirements 17
Meshes 149 OSMODE 78
Meshes General 147 OSNAP 65
Method 136 OSNAPCOORD 76
Model 51 Outer Dimensions 133
Model Tab 69, 100 Page Formate 149
Modular System 10 Page Formates
Mouse Wheel 58 User defined 101
Multiple Document 70 User Defined 99
Multiplier 130 Page Margins 97
NAME.NAM 19, 28, 44 Page Setups 69
Local Hardlock 45 Page Size 69
Module 45 Palette Contents 53

Index
Pan 60 Profil 179

Pan Function 59 Profile 25
Paper Space 69 Project Database 120
Parameter 141 Project Explorer 120
Part Lengths 128 Properties 56
Partial Dimensioning 133 Property Dialogue 129
PC3 Files 68 Property Dialogue 128
PCMCIA-Card 19 Punching Reinforcement 152
Pens 94 Purge 61
Plan Database 135 Querneigungsband 173
Plan Management 120, 121 Radialbewehrung 153
Plan Setup 95, 100 Raumstempel 187
Plan Stamp 90 Recover 84
Plan Stocks 120 Rectangle 93
Plans 90 Reference Point 89
Plot Style 69 Regelquerschnitt 173
Plot Style Types Regenerate 118
Named 69 Registration 15
Plot Style Types Reinforcement 150
Color-Dependent 69 Reinforcement distribution 133
Plott Manager 68 Reinforcement Plans 150
Plotter Configuration Files 68 Reinforcement Proposal 152
Pointing Devices 17 Relative Point Entry 89
Polygonal Mesh Distribution/Laying Repair 83
147
Repairing Files 83
Position 129, 140, 149
Rest Meshes 134
Position Numbers 129
Right Click 58
Position Plans 92
Right-Click Menu 128
Preview 55
Ringbewehrung 153
Printer 19
Rollout-Plan 160

Index SOFiCAD
Rollrichtung 165 SOFiCADB_App 196
Rotate Wheel 60 SOFiMACH 85
Round Steel 149 SOFiSTiK AG 10
Rounding Values 135 SOFSTLI.TAB 149
RunningOobject Snap 66 Solid Stairs 92
SAVEFILE 71 Specific Design Tasks 67
SAVEFILEPATH 71 Split 93
SAVETIME 71 Stair Development 108
Schrauben 177 Stairs 92
Schweißnähte 177, 183 Standar stairs 108
Schweißnahtsymbole 184 Standard Installation 30

Secondary Scale Area 114 Standard Layer 64
Secondary Scales 100 Start Installation 20
Secondary View 134 Steel Amount 149
Select Grips 58 Steel Bar Dimensioning 133
Select Program Directory 34 Steel Bar Style 134, 139
Selection Methos 57 Steel Li 150
ServicePacks 13, 47 Steel List 136, 137, 149
Setup 113 Steellist 128
SETUP.TXT 35 Steife 177
Several Layouts 51 Stirnplattenverbindung 182
Several SOFiCAD-Versions 25 Stirrup Mesh 135, 148
Shop Drawings 90 Style 130, 139
Similarity Values 135 Support 13
Single Foundations 151 Support Connections 151
Single Mesh 134, 147 Symbol Catalogues 93
Sleve Connections 151 Symbol Libraries 52
Sleve Foundations 151 System Administrator 18
SOFBOLE 196 System Variables 73
SOFiCAD 80, 150 Tabellenausgabe 190

Index
Table 149 User Profiles 25

Target Box 66 User Specific 17
Teddy 88 Utilities 84
Templates 52 Variant 195
Timber Stairs 92 VBA 192
Title Block 121 VBA-DIE 192
Tracking Points 67 VER 80
Traffic Curves 94 Version Numbers 80
Traffic Lane 94, 112 View Window 136
Training 16 View Windows 51, 90, 95
TranslateCoordinates 195 Visual Basic for Applications 192
Trasse definieren 173 Vollautomat 158
Turn on Object Snaps 65 Volumes 103
Type 149 Weight 149
Type of Distribution / Laying 133 Windows 93
Type of Laying / Distribution 132 WINSTLI 149
UCSFOLLOW 76 Working Directory 27
Update 28 X-Irons 131
USB-Interface 19 Zentralbewehrung 153
User Installation 30 Zoom Function 59

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SOFiCAD

SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD..........................................................................10

General Functionalities (Features) .................................................................49

Functionalities (Features) .......................................................................105

Working Method ..................................................................................... 119

Target User............................................................................................ 132

The program SOFiCAD is a product of

Tel. +49 911 399010

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 9 of 157

This manual is thought as a general overview of SOFiCAD. It contents general

SOFiSTiK and SOFiCAD

SOFiSTiK AG develops and distributes Software for engineers, especially em-

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 10 of 157

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 11 of 157

SOFiSTiK in the Internet

The internet pages of the SOFiTiK AG (www.sofistik.com ) offer substantial help

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 12 of 157

Hotline and Updates

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 13 of 157

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 14 of 157

• Select the option Register

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 15 of 157

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 16 of 157

Installation and Configuration of AutoCAD

The correct installation and configuration of AutoCAD are required in order to

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 17 of 157

System Administrator - Version 16.2

System Administrator version 16.3

SOFiCAD Version 16.2/16.3 Page 18 of 157

Should SOFiCAD drawings (DWGs) be viewed or plotted correctly from/at work

Starting the Installation Routine

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• Before starting the installation, please close any running ap-

• Select the link ... to SOFiCAD – Continue here (eng.)

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• The following window opens:

• To start the installation, select in the menue “install” SOFi-

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• Select Next>, in order to proceed with the installation

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• Carefully read the entire General Terms of Delivery of the

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Select AutoCAD Profile

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• If you would like to configure a new profile , select the option

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Select Working Directory

• Select the directory, which you would like to configure as

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Sub-sequently the following dialogue window appears:

• Select Browse... and select the folder with the authorization

Several Authorization Files were found

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• Select the authorization file, matching the hardlock in this

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• Carefully review and select the desired installation type.

Typ 2 - User The installation type User is only recommended for

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Installation without Authorization File

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• Proceed as described in Installation User.

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