- 1 An illustration of a parameterized layout and cut list generation process
- 2 Project summary
- 3 Initial layout sketch
- 4 Layout optimization
- 5 Final BOM and cut plan
- 6 Final product
An illustration of a parameterized layout and cut list generation process
Project summary
Garden trellis project for an existing grape vine in our yard.
I have on hand 3x 10 ft long redwood 2x4s from an earlier project. I use a parametric model and auto layout features to determine the maximum size trellis I can make given the material on hand.
Initial layout sketch
Side view
Top view
Part creation
Parts are made in the context of an assembly which initially consists only of the layout sketch. Individual parts are referenced to the layout sketch to allow for dimension changes which propagate through the model at a later stage in case this is desired.
A first draft assembly is completed using assumptions for overall dimensions.
A bill of materials is available from the assembly once complete
Auto layout and cut list
A new part studio is populated based on the BOM using the derived function to bring in parts in a manner which allows dimensions to be updated.
An initial layout is created using Auto Layout script. Four pieces of stock are required here and there is significant waste.
Layout optimization
The original layout is modified to include stock length and derive height from stretcher dimension and remaining available stock. This will ensure one leg can be cut from each stock used for cutting the two stretchers.
The layout is updated in the assembly by default. The difference from the original assumption can be seen relative to the yellow layout lines. The stretcher length is reduced by a 12 inches and the leg is reduced by 1 inch.
These changes are propagated to the part design by updating the assembly context used to model their dimensions.
The spanners are placed simply with a linear pattern and are just for reference. These will be cut from waste on the third piece of stock which does not have a stretcher cut from it.
The Auto Layout feature includes the updates to the assembly automatically since the parts in the document are all derived from the original designs.
From this layout, a cut list is generated.
This is a simple example but demonstrates the power of constraints in an original layout to minimize waste when manufacturing from a limited stock of material in situations where there is flexibility in the project’s final dimensions. It also demonstrates the flexability layout sketch derived parts have to propagate changes through the model.
Final BOM and cut plan
Lengths are measured and listed in the BOM for reference during cutting
| Item | Quantity | Part number | Description | Name |
| 1 | 2 | 46.5 | leg | |
| 2 | 2 | 72 | stretcher | |
| 3 | 5 | 18 | spanner | |
| 4 | 2 | 46.5 | leg |