Creating a Pattern Table

You can import an Excel table into the 3DEXPERIENCE to create a 3D model automatically. The table is saved in database. There is associativity between the table and the 3D model, therefore, when you edit the table, the 3D model will be updated automatically. You can also export the modified table and share it with other designers.

Before you begin:
  • Create or open a model.
  • Create a linear, curvilinear or selection pattern.
  1. Select a Curvilinear Pattern or Linear Pattern or Selection Pattern in the pattern list box.
  2. To import a pattern table, click Import Table in the Table Driven section.
  3. Optional: To search already imported tables, enter the "vpmdoc" criteria in the Search box.
  4. Select an Excel file.

    After the selection of the Excel table, the table name is visible in the box and two more commands appear next it: Export Table and Edit Table .

    The curvilinear patterns can accept three parameters for the positioning of axes along the curve:

    • the distance relative to curve start point
    • its lateral offset
    • its vertical offset or translation

  5. For linear and curvilinear patterns, in the 3D area, select
    • a 3D curve, a start point (on the curve), its orientation, the adequate measurement method, etc. for a curvilinear pattern. The selected point is chosen as the pattern start point and, axis systems are created.
    • an axis system for a linear pattern.
  6. To create the selection pattern into a table-driven table, click .

    This icon is only visible in the context of the selection pattern creation. It is possible to export a pattern table even if no table has already been imported and if the selection pattern is not defined by a table.

    With this command you create a table from selected points. After the selection or creation of the Excel table:
    • The Selection mode is automatically set to From a table.
    • The table name is visible in the box and two more commands appear next it: Export Table and Edit Table .
    • The Import Table command is hidden.
    • The creation command remains available: by selecting a new export table format, it allows you to transform one table format into another.
    For more information about formats, see About Pattern Tables.
  7. To edit directly the imported design table inside the 3DEXPERIENCE, click Edit Table .

    You can edit the pattern table.

  8. To save the table as an external file in the database, click Export Table .