Date of Award

8-2008

Document Type

Independent Study

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine if a practical working software routine could be developed using Auto-LISP to import drafting data from an external database into an AutoCAD drawing for the purpose of auto-populating the title block and parts list. The main goal of the study was to determine if it was technically and economically feasible for a small business to develop a software routine in-house versus having a professional software programmer develop it for them.

The study consisted of researching literature on document management and programming AutoCAD. This phase of the research was conducted to establish if previous researchers had attempted to address this specific data management issue. The process involved searching internet sites devoted to AutoCAD customization as well as researching commercial applications developed specifically for customizing AutoCAD. The second phase involved identifying the sales and engineering data requirements for the development of an external database to interface with AutoCAD. The third phase involved making a determination if it was technically possible to develop a functioning software routine using macros, scripts and Auto-LISP. The final stage required a summative evaluation involving an independent third party to assess the software routine for efficacy and ease of use.

The research revealed that it is not technically possible to link an external database with AutoCAD using Auto-LISP. Additional research has concluded that to link an external database to AutoCAD requires the use of ActiveX Automation and the programming language Visual Basic for Applications or VBA. Furthermore the economic practicality of having a software routine developed cannot be justified when affordable commercially-off-the-self software programs are available.

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