File
The options in this menu allow you to open, close and save files. You can also set up files for printing, and import and export files into different formats.
Open
Select the Open File option to produce the following dialog. You can then navigate to a file that you have previously saved and select Open to draw the file on the screen.
Please note:
Files can also be opened by selecting this shortcut icon on the toolbar
Figure 1: The File Open dialog.
If Loading a file in the SPA program
The option in the APA program is to Load… and as above, the following dialog is produced.
There is also an option to Read Macro, which again produces the same dialog allowing you to select a previously saved Macro from the required file.
Save As
To save a new file as a particular type you can select Save As. A cascade menu is produced providing options that are relevant to the program you are using, an example is shown below.
Figure 2: The Save As cascade.
On selection the following dialog is produced which enables you to name the new file as the required type and place in the relevant file.
Figure 3: The Save As dialog.
Saving a file in the Interface program
In the Interface program the option to save is called Save Print Text. The same dialog is produced as above, this time saving the file as a Print File.
Please note:
Figure 4: Saving a file using the Workspace Explorer window
When you have completed the work that you wish to save, right click the mouse over the file that you wish to save – oxford brogue .she in this example.
This will give you the following options:
Figure 5: Right click options in the Workspace explorer.
Selecting Save as will produce the following dialog that will enable you to navigate to the relevant file and save your new file.
Figure 6: The Save As dialog
Clear
This function will enable you to clear a file, or part of a file from the screen.
A cascade is produced where you can select to clear either part of the file or the entire file. As the Save As options, the contents of the cascade depend on the program you are using, an example is shown below.
Figure 7: The Clear cascade options.
If Clearing a file in the SPA program
If clearing a file in the SPA program, please note there is no cascade menu produced. You can choose to select Clear to clear the current data, or Delete to delete the current file.
Open Project
This Option is available in the Creative, Orthopedie and power programs and enables you to open an entire Shoe Project that has been previously saved.
Selecting this option will produce the following dialog that will enable you to select the required file.
Figure 8: The Open Project dialog.
Please note:
You can also open a Shoe Project by clicking on the following icon to display the above dialog.
This option is available in the Creative, Orthopedie and Power programs, and selecting to Save Project automatically saves the project that is on the screen. Please be aware that if you have made any alterations to the current project to make a new one, selecting this option will overwrite the changes. See Saving a New Project, below.
Please note:
You can also save a Shoe Project by clicking on the following icon to display the above dialog.
Save Project As
This option is available in the Creative, Orthopedie and Power programs and allows you to save your file as a New Project. The following dialog is produced allowing you to name and save the project in the required file.
In the dialog you will notice a check box next to some of the filenames. To include this file within your new project you should check this box. This creates a copy of the file i.e. a last and saves it within the project whilst leaving the original file intact.
It is a good idea to include all information within all projects, particularly if you need to email projects etc, so it is good practise to check the boxes.
Please note
Leaving the box unchecked will re save and over-write the original file.
Figure 9: The Save Project As dialog.
If saving a merged file in the SPA program
In this program you are given the option to Save Metafile.
This will save the style will whatever name is displayed in the Style window with an ‘mrg’ prefix added to the beginning of the filename.
For example,
Mrg_fred_jul22_1523
Last Library
This option is available in the Fotofit and Orthopedie program. The following cascade is produced that enables you to manage your last library.
Figure 10: The Last Library cascade found in Fotofit
Each option available within the cascade menu is described below.
Selecting New allows you to name and save a new Last Library in the required area. Select Open to open a library prior to conducting a search for a last.
The Add Last function is used to add the current last to the last file. The following dialog is produced which shows all the attributes of a last. Click on Calculate to update the information and then create all sizes to automatically create a last for all sizes.
The Update button is used to update the last with the current settings.
Figure 11: The Create Last dialog.
Figure 12: Delete lasts from the library dialog.
Please note:
The Last Library option is also found in the Orthopedie program
Grid
This option is found only in the SPA program and produces the following dialog.
Figure 13: The Grid dialog found in SPA
Using the dialog you can select to turn the grid on by clicking on Draw, and also dictate the spacing of the grid by entering values in the Spacing box.
Figure 14: The grid drawn in the SPA program
You may also select to Highlight the grid, again by checking the box and can amend the offset and rotation by entering values, shown below.
Figure 15: Highlighting the grid and changing the rotation and offset
You may also select to snap the mouse position to the nearest grid point if required, or opt to use None and use the mouse freely.
Page Setup
Choose the Page Setup option to select the relevant printing options for your file.
Figure 16: Page set up dialog.
To change the paper size, select the button Generic Print, and then select the paper size. The paper size will now read Custom and you should double click it and add the required paper size.
Print Preview
This allows you to view the print options you have selected to ensure the file will print out correctly.
Selecting Print produces the following dialog that enables you to select the correct printer etc and then print the file.
Figure 17: The Print dialog
Configure
A cascade is produced allowing you to configure your files.
Set up Communications
This allows you to configure your peripheral devices i.e. if you are setting your device to com2 and zund, select Add to add to your connection.
This communications set up can be saved as a file by checking the Output to File box
Figure 18: The communications setup dialog.
If you click on Settings the following dialog is produced. This allows you to change port, device, and pen and knife settings.
Figure 19: The device settings dialog.
Milling
By checking the boxes shown in the dialog, you will enable the milling software.
The Mill In check box is normally unchecked as this is used for milling internal circuits within a piece.
Figure 20: The Milling dialog
In the same dialog, the Offset box will specify half the diameter of the specified milling tool.
Setup DXF Layers
Figure 21: The DXF Layer dialog.
IGES Header
When exporting IGES, the menu below shows the relevant information relating to the file.
Figure 22: The IGES Header dialog.
IGES Origin
Set origin by Cursor
This allows you to set the zero position of the exported IGES unit. This can be used when reading into another package, i.e. Delcam Duct, to align the imported object to the correct position on screen.
Set Origin by Values
This is the same process as above, but allows you to enter the origin point and then apply.
Clear Origin
This clears any origins that have been set and defaults back to the Shoemaster origin at the heel.
Invert Vertically
This allows the z axis to be inverted i.e. the unit will fit under the last rather than on the same level.
Query
This queries the IGES information to the Message History box.
Comments
You are able to add information or comments regarding the IGES file in this dialog.
Figure 23: The Comments dialog.
Configure Scanner
This option allows you to configure the software to accept 3d data from different scanners.
As shown in the dialog below. You are able to configure the scanner, input and output i.e. XYZ data.
Figure 25: The Input section
Figure 26: The Output section
Compulast Settings
By selecting the Generate button, you can generate the “Normals” and “Points” for the Compulast output file. Each section can then be drawn individually forward and back using the < and > buttons. Draw All will draw them all together.
Figure 27: The Compulast dialog
Figure 28: The Compulast Setup dialog
Dispose Method
Found only in the Interface program, the Dispose Method helps you control and maintain your cut files. The following dialog is produced where you can control the file after it has been cut.
Figure 29: The Dispose Method dialog found in Interface.
Import
The following options are available in the importing section.
Iges
Iges files from other CAD programs can be read into Shoemaster, they can be either 2d or 3d data.
Shoemaster QS is a 'Parametric' based CAD program, this means that whenever the user has the option to export IGES data in a 'parametric' format he or she should do so.
Shoemaster QS does not use NURBS, as a result any IGES information written out in a NURBS format will not be able to be read in.
In essence this means avoid exporting data as IGES entities 126 and 128.
When trying to export 3D lasts to Shoemaster QS in IGES format the following 3 criteria must be adhered to Firstly the IGES file of the last must be written out in ‘Parametric’ (entity 114) format.
Secondly the patchwork ‘surface’ that describes the shape of the last in the IGES file must be distributed in the same way as the patchwork of a ‘normal’ Shoemaster last.
Thirdly the upper and bottom surfaces of the IGES last must be written out to separate Layers, for example the upper can be on Layer 1 and the bottom can be on Layer 555.
Create Last
Create Last turns an imported IGES last into a true Shoemaster QS last.
The following dialog is produced which enables you to determine which layer the IGES upper and bottom surfaces are on and turn the IGES last into a Shoemaster last.
Figure 30: The Create last from surface dialog.
If you require any further information on this matter, please contact the Shoemaster Helpdesk.
Import File Wizard
The Import File Wizard has been devised to make the importing of data from other programs or files a simple process. The first page of the wizard requires you to choose the item that you wish to import.
Click on the required item and then click Next to continue to the second page. The options provided on the second page depend on the action chosen, and a brief description is provided below.
Importing Style Lines and Packets/Pieces
IGES
DXF
Secondary Style (Lines option only)
This is a way of importing a second style over an existing style that is currently on the screen. This enables you to use certain style lines from one style to another.
Please note:
The secondary style must be created on the same last as the existing style.
Scanned Pieces (Packets and Pieces option only)
This option allows pieces that have been scanned on a flat bed scanner and saved as a bitmap, to be converted to vectors (lines) and then saved as IGES format. The file can then be imported as scanned pieces.
Importing a Last
Chose from the following options:
Autolast
This function is a Shoemaster propriety format which is a Shoemaster Last database that has been saved as an autolast (.asci text file). This file contains the X Y Z data and all information of flattenings. Files can be saved in this way to send via email as the autolast file is much smaller in size.
Compulast
By selecting this option it is possible to import a Compulast file. To draw the Compulast file when loaded, you can select Draw all to see the imported file.
Scanned Sections
This option allows scanned sections from other scanners i.e. Ideas, 3d Scanner, CMi CL300, New last, Vorum, Fotofit, and Shoemaster section files, to be imported.
Shoemaster Sections
This is a Shoemaster propriety format as above, that can be imported.
Importing a Feather Table
This option allows feather tables from previous styles to be imported onto a different last.
Importing a Heel Curve
Importing a Picture
You are able to import pictures in various formats. This can be used for reference and is also useful when designing or presenting ranges.
Once you have selected the relevant action on page one, now chose the file type you wish to import data from on the second page, clicking on next to continue to the next page.
Figure 32: Selecting the file type in the Import File Wizard.
The next section of the Wizard requires you to enter the name of the file you want to import.
Click on the Browse button and navigate to the required file in the File Open dialog. The file type will automatically be set to the one you have just chosen. Select open and this will update the file to import section. Click Next to continue to the final section.
Figure 33: Selecting the file to import.
The final section of the wizard requires you to click finish to update all the details and complete the Importing process. Please note, that if at any time you need to amend details, you can click the Back button to go back to the previous page and amend as necessary.
Clicking on File automatically produces the File Open dialog. As above, this enables you to select the type of file and navigate to the relevant files etc to import the file of your choice.
Export
The following options are available in the Exporting section.
Interface file
The options within Interface file are explained below.
Interface Directory
This enables you to enter and select the directory that you wish to store your cut files.
Figure 34: The Interface Directories dialog.
Interface Cut
This function pre-fixes the file with “cut”. i.e. cut_style_date_time
Interface Merge
This function pre-fixes the file with “mrg”. i.e. mrg_style_date_time
Interface SPA
This function pre-fixes the file with “spa”. i.e. spa_style_date_time
Interface Spec
This function pre-fixes the file with “spec”. i.e. spec_style_date_time
Interface Style
This function pre-fixes the file with “style”. i.e. style_style_date_time
Interface User
Interface Unit
This function pre-fixes the file with “unit”. i.e. unit_style_date_time
Interface File Named
This function allows the user to type in the desired name.
The Export File Wizard
The Export File Wizard has been devised to make the exporting of data from other programs or files a simple process. This works in the same way as the Importing Wizard and you will go through a series of pages to complete the process. The first page of the wizard requires you to choose the item that you wish to import.
Click on the required item and then click Next to continue to the second page. The options provided on the second page depend on the action chosen, and a brief description is provided below.
Figure 35: Selecting an action in the Export File Wizard
Exporting a Last
This will allow you to export a Last as an Autolast
Exporting a Feather Table
This will allow you to export a Feather Table so that you may use it with another last.
Exporting a Heel Curve
This will allow you to export a Heel Curve so that you may use it with another last.
The next section of the wizard requires you to select the file type you wish to export data to. Click on the option and then select Next to continue to the following page.
Figure 36: Selecting a file type in the Export File Wizard.
You will now be required to enter a name for the file you are exporting. Click on the Browse button and then navigate to the required area and name the file.
Figure 37: Entering a name for the file to be exported.
When the name has been entered and you have selected Next, the wizard will continue to the final page where you can click on Finish to update all information and complete the exporting of the file.
Please note, that if at any time you need to amend details, you can click the Back button to go back to the previous page and amend as necessary.
File…..
This option allows you to select and name files in the same way as the Wizard and clicking on File automatically produces the File Save As dialog. In here you can select the relevant file type and save in the appropriate place to create a file for exporting.
Exit
Exit will produce a dialog asking you to confirm that you wish to exit the program, and on selecting Yes the program will automatically close
Edit
This menu allows you to Undo and Redo operations and Copy and Paste data and the following functions are found in the Edit drop down menu.
Undo
This enables you to undo the last operation (or series of operations) you have completed.
Redo
You are able to redo any operations that you previously removed using the Undo function.
Copy
Image
Selecting Copy will copy whatever image you currently have on screen.
Paste
Background
View
The functions in this menu allow you to control the way your files are displayed on the screen. For example, you can change the scale of your work, show only specific surfaces, and choose the “rotation” of an image etc. Others features include the Control section where you can change the colours of “layers” such as stitches and edges. The shortcut Toolbars are also found in this menu and can be hidden or viewed as required.
Scale
The following enables you to change the way you view the image on the screen, and save it if necessary.
Maximise
This scales the image as large as possible to fully utilise the entire available screen space.
Figure 1: Maximising the style to the screen.
Original
This function sets the image at its “original” size, for example you would need to do this before exporting the file into your cut file so it is cut to 100% scale.
Save
the function to Save it.
Restore
If you have saved a view and then changed it, selecting restore will redraw the image to the image you last saved.
Set Scale
Selecting this function will produce the following dialog. Figure 2: The Set Scale dialog
You are required to enter the scale you wish and when you click “OK” the image is automatically redrawn to this scale.
Please note:
The number you enter will increase the drawing in size that many times. For example, if you enter 2, the image will be twice as large, and so on.
Maximise All
This will maximise the image to fully utilise the entire screen.
Please note:
· This function is also available as a shortcut icon on the toolbar
Using Scale options in the Orthopedie program.
The Orthopedie version of the Scale cascade is different from other Shoemaster programs in that the options are mainly listed in % terms, as shown in the dialog below.
Figure 3: The Orthopedie Scale Cascade
The menu works in the same way as other programs, the different terms are described below. Selecting Custom allows you to enter a specific % value.
Fit to screen works in the same way as Maximise in other Shoemaster programs. Choosing 100% will set your work to “original” size i.e. for cutting purposes.
Rotation
The Rotation option enables the last to be viewed in a variety of positions. The views are explained with a diagram.
Above
Figure 4: The Above view.
Toe
Figure 5: The Toe view.
Heel
Inside ¾
Figure 7: The Inside 3/4 view.
Inside
Figure 8: The Inside view.
Outside ¾
Figure 9: The Outside 3/4 view.
Figure 10: The Outside view.
Bottom
Figure 11: The Bottom view.
Surface
The following options in this menu allow you to select and draw a specific surface. Click next to the required surface to select it.
The following options are available in this menu.
Upper
The Upper is the 3d and 2d last and flattened surface.
Bottom
This is the bottom of the last.
Figure 12: The 2d last bottom
Shell
The Shell is a 2d surface that allows style lines to be drawn off the surface of the 3d last. I.e. this is useful when creating a boot style so that you can draw style lines outside of the 2d flattening area.
Figure 13: The 2d shell surface
Tooling
This allows lines to be drawn to construct pallets and jigs etc. Please be aware that lines on this surface do not grade, but pieces (elements) e.g. stitch patterns, will grade.
Specification
This surface is used for applying text and any information regarding construction of the shoe. This can be printed out and used in production.
Draw Selected Surface Only
This will draw only the surface that you have selected to the screen.
The Surface function is not available in the Fotofit program, but there are an additional two drop downs used specifically in Fotofit, Draw Options and Draw Settings, which are described below.
Draw Options
On selection, the following dialog is produced that enables you to select specific measures and surfaces etc, by checking the necessary boxes.
Selecting “Options” will produce a further dialog where you can check the boxes to select the measure sections to draw.
Figure 14: Fotofit drawing option
The following functions can be found under Draw Settings:
Show Alignment Grid
Selecting to view the alignment grid automatically draws the following grid behind the image. To remove, select the function again.
Figure 15: the alignment grid switched on
Show Axes
Selecting this function will automatically draw the axes with the image. Click the function again to remove.
Figure 16: The axes switched on
Show Section Grid
switch it off.
Show Section Template
This option draws a template around the 2d section drawing.
Figure: A section template.
2d Measure Text Display
This option enables you to select how the measurements are displayed and each is described with a picture.
Measure
Figure 18: Displaying by measure
Table
Figure 19: displaying by table
Summary
Figure 20: Displaying by summary
No text
Figure 21: Displaying without text
Toolbars
There are a number of shortcuts Toolbars available within this dropdown menu. Each toolbar is designed to make certain functions quicker and more accessible than using drop down menus. The toolbars contain a specific function and can be used or hidden as required. For example, all line functions are found in the Lines toolbar, so this toolbar will be used when creating and modifying new lines. Similarly, the Grade toolbar provides all the functions to create and modify grading on a style.
To select and open a toolbar, click next to the option in the cascade menu. This will automatically open the toolbar and place it on the screen. This can now be moved or docked as required and used until you chose to close it. To close the toolbar and remove it from the screen, click next to the option in the cascade where you will see a tick to indicate that
the option has previously been selected.
Please note that the toolbar options available depend on the program you are currently running.
Other Windows
The following dialogs can be switched on or off using this cascade.
Workspace Explorer
This option produces the following toolbar that can be docked on screen.
There are two tabs available, Project Explorer and Style View, each function is explained below. Project Explorer
This tab lists all the individual components that are used to make up a particular style or project. This includes the Last, the style name, any colours or lighting that is used, and so on.
Style View
This tab lists all the individual Style Lines and line types etc, any packets and pieces etc that are used to make up the style.
Please Note
This Window can also be displayed by using the following short cut icon on the toolbar
Figure 23: The Style View in the Workspace Explorer window.
Properties Window
This window shows the properties of lines or arcs. You are able to click next to certain properties and make amendments, such as changing the Type and amending Markers.
This is an excellent shortcut to many of the functions found in the dropdown menus, making style creation and modification quick and simple.
Figure 24: The Properties Window.
Docking View
This is a flexible, “dockable” viewport window. Selecting this mode and then opening a style, for example, will draw the style within the Viewport. This works in exactly the same way as the main view, so please note that once you have opened work within this view you will not be able to open anything else on the “main” screen.
Object Browser
This window displays graphically the object type that is current. For example, it will display all pieces in the selected Packet, or all Punchlines and Punchshapes available in the system.
Command History
Figure 25: The Command History dialog.
This dialog shows the recent commands used. You are able to type in syntax in the Command box if necessary.
Program Status
Figure 26: The Program status dialog.
This shows the current status of the program. For example if you have an error whilst using Shoemaster, this dialog will inform you of the fault. The dialog will show Warnings and Errors. Warnings will be indicted by an exclamation mark
When you have opened the program status, read the warning and closed the window, a green tick will appear Errors will be indicated by a cross . It is important that you read the program status and correct the issue that is causing the error.
Figure 27: The Message History dialog.
Most of the query functionality i.e. lasts, flattenings, pieces, etc will be output to this window.
Control
The following options allow you to manage the way your work is viewed on screen.
Bundle Colours
A Shoemaster “Bundle” refers to individual components, such as stitching and markers etc. Each one has a default colour which you can change in the dialog that is produced.
There is an extended list which can be switched on or off by checking the Advanced Bundle box.
Figure 28: The Bundle Colour dialog.
To change a default colour, click on the Bundle that you would like to amend. This will show you the current colour, which you can amend by clicking on the “colour” tab to produce the following dialog.
Figure 29: The Colour dialog.
Select a colour from the palette, or mix your own and add to the custom colours. Click OK to apply the new colour.
Please Note
The Bundle colour function is also available by using the following short cut icon on the toolbar
Layer Visibility
This dialog allows you to switch “layers” on or off by checking the relevant box. Redraw the style to apply the changes.
Figure 30: The Layer Visibility dialog.
Please Note
The Layer Visibility function is also available by using the following short cut icon on the toolbar
Enable
Selecting the Enable function produces the following dialog. This allows you to switch certain features on or off, such as the “Arrows” showing the direction of pieces, and the Nodes that make up the style line, etc.
You will need to redraw the style to apply the changes.
Figure 31: The Enable dialog.
Please Note
The Enable function is also available by using the following short cut icon on the toolbar
Select Sizes
This will allow you to select the sizes that you wish to view on screen.
The following dialog is produced and you can select to switch all sizes on or off, or check the box of the size(s) you wish to see on screen.
Figure 32: The select sizes dialog.
Please Note
Show Surfaces
This dialog will allow you to switch on or off all the surfaces, or check the box to view specific surfaces.
Figure 33: The Show surface dialog.
Please Note
The Show Surface function is also available by using the following short cut icon on the toolbar
Quit
Select Quit to end the function that is currently in use. This function is useful if the program locks up and you are unable to use any other commands, or if you wish to quit whilst in the middle of a function.
Please Note
The Quit function is also available by using the following short cut icon on the toolbar
Settings
Display
Cursor
The cursor provides a real-time X Y position of the screen area; this is shown in the bottom right hand corner of the screen.
The following options are available within this section.
Cursor Positions
This switches off all references to the cursor position, so that you will not see any figures at the bottom right, as shown above.
Absolute
This provides an “absolute” measurement, in X and Y from the toe on the 2d flattening.
Relative
This enables you to select a specific 0 point. I.e. where you click the cursor will become the 0 point and wherever the cursor is moved will be relative to that 0 point.
Distance
This works in a similar way as above, providing a measurement from the 0 point that you select to a specific point on the screen.
Cursor Constraint
The following commands control how the cursor moves on screen.
Vertical
When selecting this, the cursor movement is restricted to movements in a vertical direction only.
Horizontal
As above, but the cursor moves in a horizontal direction.
Free
This removes any restrictions and allows free movement of the cursor.
Cross Hairs
Selecting this function changes the cursor to a vertical and diagonal line on the screen, as shown below. This can be switched off by selecting the function again.
Figure 34: Cross Hairs cursor.
Cursor Shape
The two options within this function allow you to change the cursor to either an arrow or a cross. The two options are shown below.
Arrow
Figure 35: The arrow cursor.
Cross
Figure 36: The Cross cursor.
Cursor Mode
The cursor mode can be changed allowing you to move the image around on the screen or make selections. A description of each is provided below.
Pan
Figure 37: The Pan icon
This drags the image on screen by holding down the cursor and moving the mouse. To secure the image in the required position, release the mouse button
Zoom
Figure 38: The Zoom icon.
This will “zoom” the image in or out on the screen. You can either draw a box around the area to zoom, or use the left mouse button to zoom in and the right mouse button to zoom out.
Rotate
Figure 39: The Rotate icon.
This allows you to rotate the last to any required position. Hold the mouse button down and rotate the last, releasing the button to hold the position.
Figure 40: The Select icon.
This allows you to select items, such as lines or arcs and also group items.
Please note:
These functions are available as a shortcut on the toolbar.
Views
This section produces the following cascade that enables you to change the way you view the screen. Each view is described below.
Figure 41: The View cascade options.
One View
Figure 42: Screen in One View mode.
Split Vertically
Figure 43: Screen in Slit Vertically mode.
Split Horizontally
Figure 44: Screen in Split Horizontally mode.
Four Views
Figure 45: Screen in Four Views mode.
View 2D
This will change the image from 3d to 2d and vice versa.
Please Note
The View Screen functions are all available by using the short cut icons on the toolbar
Grid
Figure 46: The Grid dialog.
Click on the Draw function to show the grid, shown in the example below.
Figure 47: The grid function switched "on". To enhance the grid, select highlight.
Figure 48: The grid "highlighted".
Spacing
You can change the spacing of the grid to suit your needs. The default is set at 10 and the example below shows a spacing of 20
Figure 49: Spacing altered to 20. Offset
The Offset sets the grid to align to the centre of the shell or image on screen, and the default is 0. The example below shows it set at 5, and you will see the grid has shifted 5mm from the centre.
Figure 50: Grid shifted 5mm up from centre line.
Rotation
This function changes the way the grid lines flow. For example, at present the rotation is set at 0 and the lines run straight in all directions. In the example below the rotation has been changed to 5mm.
Figure 51: The rotation of lines changed to 5. Click to
The “click to” functions dictate how lines are drawn within the grid None
When the “None” function is selected, lines can be drawn freely within the grid. Grid
This will “snap” the line to the grid, as shown in the example below. The node is automatically positioned in the corners of the grid.
Figure 52 Lines selected to “Click To” the Grid.
Line
This will snap the line to the nearest line that is on screen, shown below.
Figure 53: Lines selected to "click to" existing lines. Intersection
Node
This will enable the line to snap to the nearest node on any line.
Mid-Point
Centre
This function allows a new line to snap to the centre of a circle.
Cross
This allows the new style line to snap the centres of the crosses. Please note you will have to switch on the Cross in the Layer visibility dialog.
Extreme
This allows the cursor to snap to the “extreme” or end of the line.
Ruler
The Ruler can be picked up and positioned by cursor. You can also rotate the ruler using the cursor.
Figure 55: The Ruler function
Tooltip Detail
Tooltips provide certain details regarding lines etc and are shown when the cursor is placed over them for a few seconds. An example is used to describe the n umber of tips included at each level.
Off
This will turn all “Tooltips” off
Low
Figure 56: Tool tip set to Low.
Medium
Figure 57: Tooltip set to Medium.
High
Graphics
Draw Mode
The options in this section change the appearance of the 3d last. Each is described below by a picture.
Translucent
Figure 59: The last set as Translucent.
Making the last translucent is useful when” Aligning a Picture to a Last”, and tracing the style.
Please note:
This option is also available as a shortcut icon on the toolbar
Wireline
Figure 60: The last set as Wireline.
Please note:
Shaded
Figure 61: The last set as Shaded.
Please note:
· This option is also available as a shortcut icon on the toolbar
Wireline + Shaded
Figure 62: The last set as Wireline + Shaded.
Please note:
This option is also available as a shortcut icon on the toolbar
Figure 63: Last set as Silhouette.
Please note:
This option is also available as a shortcut icon on the toolbar
Wide Silhouette Lines
Figure 64: Last set with wide silhouette lines.
Silhouette Lines Width 2.00
With this option you will be required to enter the line width you require, the last lines will then change accordingly.
Figure 66: Last set to specific silhouette.
Anti Alias Lines
This option makes the lines i.e. the centre line, look much crisper, cleaner and smoother.
Figure 67: Last drawn with anti alias lines switched on.
Viewport
View settings graphics viewports are a good way of determining whether the 3D last or unit has been created properly (for example if the last has been digitised in the correct direction). If any of the viewport settings do not behave correctly it is possible that the last is actually 'inside out'.
It will either need re-digitising or its U-direction reversed
Outer
This sets the 'visible' surface of the 3D model to be the outermost or exterior surface. In this setting the 3D model will look correct.
I.e. the user will not be able to see through onto any of the interior surfaces of the 3D model.
Inner
This equates to looking at the 'inside' of the 3D surfaces from whichever rotation is selected.
For example if view rotation outside is selected, but view settings graphics viewport is switched to inside the last will look as if you are looking at it from its inner. In effect the outside surface of the 3D model is being made invisible and
the user is seeing straight through to its inside surfaces
Full
Selecting this view setting will display both the interior and exterior surfaces of the 3D model simultaneously.
Render Quality
The Render Quality equates to the level of detail or resolution that the 3D model is displayed with
Normal
Normal is the lowest level of model quality and produces the fastest redraw and rotation speeds.
Medium
A Medium level of quality is produced with “medium” speed redraw and rotation.
High
This provides the highest level of model quality, but produces the slowest redraw and rotation speeds.
Texture
Texture Off
Attached textures to 3D surfaces will not be displayed
Texture Full
Attached textures to 3D surfaces will be displayed
Texture Default
Attached textures to 3D surfaces will be displayed but only after rotation has ceased (i.e. during model rotation the textures will not be updated
Fast rotation
This option turns off all piece properties i.e. anything that might slow down the process of normal last rotation, and rotates the last in wireframe.
Lighting
This option is found only in the Creative program and allows you to add lights to a 3d Shoe to further enhance the finished design. The following options are available.
Surface Reflection
On selection a dialog is produced where you can select the individual materials and adjust the reflectivity on specific settings. Highlight the relevant material by clicking with the mouse and then enter a value in the boxed below.
There are also options to load or save a reflection file, and you will be able to navigate to the relevant file.
You may also select to create a new material by clicking on New and entering a name. The new name will be added to the list of materials.
To delete material from the list, highlight the relevant material in the box and select Delete to remove it.
Figure 68: The reflectivity dialog.
Scheme
In the cascade produced you can select a specific lighting scheme, choosing from A-D or the default. When you have clicked to select the changes will automatically update on the 3d style.
Adjust Light Source
This allows you to pick up and reposition the light by cursor. On selection you will be prompted to “Pick up and put down the light”.
Advanced Lighting
The following dialog is produced where you can change the settings of the lighting. You are able to add a number of lights to each Shoe and can modify each as required. This includes changing the colour of the light, or opting to add the light as a Floodlight or a Spotlight and change the strength of the light.
Figure 69: The Light Settings dialog.
Clear Screen
This will clear any information that is currently on the screen.
Please note,
Flattening
The functions in the Flattening Drop Down menu provide all the tools to create a 2d flattening of the 3d last. The process is completed in the same way that you might work traditionally; by applying symmetry to the two halves and then merging them.
The process can also be used for graded sizes.
Select
In this option you can select previously created Flattenings. The options in the cascade are as follows.
Halves
Selecting Halves produces the following dialog that contains details of the Available Flattened Halves. This then allows you click on the relevant flattening from the list.
Figure 1: The Available Flattened halves dialog.
Flattening
As above, this produces a dialog that contains a list of all the flattenings that you have on the current last. Again, you will be able to click on the flattening you require to select it.
Figure 2: The Available Flattenings dialog
The New Flattening menu provides all the tools to create the flattenings of your choice for the 3d last. The options are as follows
Flattening Wizard
The Wizard takes you through the necessary steps to create a flattening of your 3d last. The flattening can be as basic or structured as you chose using this method, with the added benefit that a thorough knowledge of the process is not necessarily required to create the very basic of flattening.
The following is an overview of the Flattening Wizard.
Figure 3: The Flattening Wizard dialog.
The first page of the dialog displays the current Flatterning settings. Select Next to begin the procedure
You will then be taken through the next stage which is to set up the Thickness. This will establish the allowance around the last for different leathers and linings. The offset works like an orange peel effect.
Type in a Thickness for the Halves (0.5 mm is usual for most shoes). Click Next to proceed.
You will now be taken through to another page, this time to set up the symmetry of the halves.
Check the boxes to apply symmetry (mean) to the Centre, Heel, Toplines, Heel positions, and Feather edge. Select Next to proceed
Please Note:
The ‘Feather’ option, if selected, allows the heel curve at the feather edge to be ‘meaned’ and blended, so that the inside and outside heel feather edges are the same i.e. heel mean 3, heel blend 4
This means that up to node 3 on the feather edge will be the same on the inside and outside and node 4 will be the blended node, back to the original asymmetrical feather edge shape.
Figure 5: Applying Symmetry.
On the next page you will be required to specify the options to control the flattening.
There are seven methods of flattening. The simplest to use is the ‘Vamp depth and Touch points’ method as it requires no further interaction from the user. This is the ‘default’ setting and the one we will use in this example.
Figure 6: Specify the options to control the flattening
You can either enter a vamp depth value of your choice, to do this
Or, choose to use the default option. This means that the halves will not cross the centre line at any point. This is useful to when creating a design.
Tick Default to create a top flattening. Select Finish
This will then draw the flattening whilst showing details in the dialog Select Finish to complete the wizard and close the function.
Creating a flattening in the Creative program
When using Creative you will need to ensure the last has a flattening before you are able to start drawing. The flattening does not have to be technically correct, such as for production purposes, but it must not cross over at the heel positions otherwise this will restrict collection of pattern pieces.
Figure 7: An incorrect flattening, restricting piece collection.
Therefore, the following 3 options are available within this function to help you create the correct flattening for your last.
Default
This is used on lasts with little or no heel height, such as a Men’s Formal, and creates a default top flattening.
. Figure 8: A default Top Flattening.
A Mid Flattening will join the two halves half way along the centre line at the vamp point. This can be used on a lower heel height up to approximately 5cm as long as the back height positions are not crossing over, as shown in the example below.
Figure 9: A Mid Flattening
High
The High method will join the two halves at the ‘Vamp Point’ and separate the inside and outside back heights by a distance of 24mm, 12mm either side of the centre line.
This will be used on a higher heel of 5-9cm.
Figure 10: A High flattening showing the back height distance of 24mm
Halves
Selecting Halves produces the following dialog that requires you to type in a value for the thickness, usually 0.5 is acceptable for most styles. This will establish the allowance around the last for different leathers and linings. The offset works like an orange peel effect.
Figure 12: Dialog to enter the thickness of the new halves. When you have selected Ok the halves will be drawn in 2d
Figure 13: Halves drawn in 2d.
Symmetry
The dialog that is produced with this option requires you to tick the boxes where you wish to apply symmetry etc. Tick all the relevant boxes and enter any values you require. Select Apply and then Ok.
Figure 14: Applying symmetry properties.
Flattening
The dialog produced when selecting Flattening allows you to create the flattening you require by selecting the relevant method.
Figure 15: Create Flattening dialog.
Below is a brief explanation of each method. Cursor
This gives you complete control over the flattening process. If you select this option you will be prompted to “Right click to show options”
Figure 16: right click menu to enable flattening. Drag Outer
Use the cursor to pick up and drag the Outer half to the required position
Drag Inner
Use the cursor to pick up and drag the Inner Half to the required position. Drag Both
Use the cursor to pick up and drag both halves to the required position. Rotate Both
Use the cursor to rotate both halves to the required position. Rotate Inner
Use the cursor to rotate the inner half to the required position. Rotate Outer
Use the cursor to rotate the outer half to the required position. Accept
This will accept the changes that you have made to the halves. Quit
Select this to quit the process.
Use the tools described above to create the flattening you need and then accept to apply the changes. Vamp Depth and Cursor
If you wish to apply a specific vamp depth, you can choose this option. You will need to enter a value in the Vamp Depth box on the dialog, which will then set the halves at that measurement. You will be prompted to “Right click to show options” which will produce the following menu.
Figure 17: Right click menu produced to enable flattening.
As described above you will now need to rotate the halves by cursor until you are happy with the position and then chose Accept to apply the new flattening.
Vamp Depth and Touch Points
If you wish to apply a specific vamp depth, you can choose this option. You will need to enter a value in the Vamp Depth box on the dialog, which will then set the halves at that measurement; the toes will then be rotated so that they are ‘kissed’ together. You will be then shown a preview of the flattening with a Continue/Quit create Form menu, select Ok if you are happy with the result to create the new flattening.
Figure 18: Continue/Quit create Form menu showing toes 'kissed' together Vamp Depth and Overlap
If you wish to apply a specific vamp depth and overlap the toes when they are ‘kissed’ together you can choose this option. You will need to enter a value in the Vamp Depth box and enter a value in the Overlap box on the dialog. This will then set the halves at that measurement. The toes will then be rotated so that they are ‘overlapped’ by the amount
entered. You will be then shown a preview of the flattening with a Continue/Quit create Form menu, select Ok if you are happy with the result to create the new flattening.
Figure 19: Continue/Quit create form menu showing the ‘overlap’ amount at the toe. Vamp Depth and Slot
If you wish to apply a specific vamp depth, and keep the toe open for a sandal shoe, you can choose this option. You will need to enter a value in the Vamp Depth box and enter a value in the Slot box on the dialog. This will then set the halves at that measurement and the toes will be rotated so that they are ‘kissed’ together and the toe will be left open by the slot amount entered. You will then be shown a preview of the flattening with a Continue/Quit Create Form menu, select Ok if you are happy with the result to create the new flattening.
Figure 20: Continue/Quit create form menu showing the ‘slot’ amount at the toe. Back Height and Cursor
This will enable you to apply a specific distance between the back heights and rotate the halves around the back heights to merge together. You will need to enter a value in the Back Height box on the dialog, which will then set the halves at that measurement, the toes will then need to be rotated to the desired position. You will be prompted to “Right click to show options” which will produce the following menu.
Figure 21: Right click menu produced to Accept Flattening
As described above you will now need to rotate the halves by cursor until you are happy with the position and then chose Accept to apply the new flattening.
Back Height and Vamp Depth
option. You will need to enter a value in the Vamp Depth box and enter a value in the Back Height box on the dialog. This will then set the halves at that measurement. You will be then shown a preview of the flattening with a
Continue/Quit Create Form dialog, select Ok if you are happy with the result to create the new flattening.
Figure 22: Continue/Quit create Form menu showing the Back Heights set at 6mm & VD 110 Open Toe
This option is usually used for sandals, for example, if the open toe box is checked and a slot value is typed in of 10, it will mean that the toe will be left open up to 10mm from the toe, causing less stress in the toe area.
Flatten Sizes
This allows you to select a flattening i.e. Flatten thickness 0.5 VD 110 name, and flatten all the sizes of the last, to those parameters.
Copy
This enables you to copy an existing flattening and when you select the option a dialog is produced where you should enter a new name for the copy.
Figure 23: Enter a name for a new flattening.
Once you have entered a name, the following dialog is produced showing all the available Flattenings. You should now click on the relevant one that you wish to copy and click Ok.
Figure 24: The Available Flattenings dialog
selected by choosing Select the Flattening from the drop down menu where you should see the new flattening in the list.
Modify
Halves
Old Alignment
This will set the method to ‘align’ the halves in a way that was required in an earlier release
New Alignment
This option is required for all new last Flattenings, and is the default setting
New Sizes
This option will flatten all graded sizes of the selected halves
Form
Spring Form by Cursor
This option will allow you to spring the Form (flattening) with the cursor in real time. You will be prompted to select a pivot point on the flattening and then move the Form to the desired position.
Advanced Symmetry
Inner
This option will apply the meaning (symmetry) to the inside half.
Outer
This option will apply the meaning (symmetry) to the outside half.
Middle
This option will apply the meaning (symmetry) to the middle of both inside and outside halves and is the default setting.
Even Graded Sizes
This option will remove any discrepancies in the 2d graded Flattenings. This command is sometimes necessary if the flattened halves are merged together with, overlaps or gaps between the centre lines.
Heel
This option will allow the user to define a new heel curve shape on the current 2d flattened form. You will be prompted to start drawing the new heel curve over the halves, starting at the bottom of the heel curve and continuing to the top of the heel curve.
You will be prompted to “Right click to show options” which will produce the following menu.
Figure 25: Accepting the new heel curve shape
Define Shape (Gross)
This option is used in the same way as above; accept the start point is at the gross heel feather edge. This will require a Feather Table (lasting allowance).
You will be prompted to “Right click to show options” which will produce the following menu.
Figure 26: Accepting the new heel curve shape
Modify Shape
This option can only be used once you have created a new heel curve, this shape can then be modified. You will be prompted to “Right click to show options” which will produce the following menu.
Figure 27: Accepting the modified shape.
Digitise Shape
This option is the same as ‘Define shape’ accept the new heel curve shape is digitised with a 2d digitising tablet
Digitise Shape (Gross)
This option is the same as ‘Define Shape Gross’ accept the new heel curve shape is digitised with a 2d digitising tablet
Clear Shape
This option will clear the defined heel curve shape and use the natural heel curve shape from the 3d Last.
This option will allow the user to put a ‘radius’ on the flattened heel curve. Type in the Radius value, usually 90mm is the norm.
Click Ok to apply the 90mm radius.
Figure 28: The Enter Heel Radius dialog.
Figure 29: Flattening showing heel radius of 90mm overlayed original heel 3D Last heel curve.
Please note the heel curve radius will be applied through the back heights of the last flattening and the bottom of the heel curve.
To reset the radius back to the natural heel curve shape of the 3d Last, the Radius heel value must be set to 0mm.
Centre
Modify Shape
This command will allow you to modify the centre line of the 2D Flattening.
You will be prompted to “Right click to show options” which will produce the following menu.
Figure 30: Moving points and accepting the new shape.
Clear Shape
This command will remove the modified center line shape, and revert back to the center line of the 3D Last
Draw Halves
This command will draw the halves on the screen on top of anything that might already be visible.
Figure 31: Halves drawn over current flattening.
Redraw Halves
This redraws the halves on a fresh screen so that anything currently on screen is removed, leaving only the halves
Figure 32: Halves redrawn.
Draw Flattening
This command will draw the Flattening on the screen on top of anything that might already be visible.
Figure 33: Flattening drawn.
Redraw Flattening
Figure 34: Redrawn flattening.
Draw Sizes
This command will draw all graded sizes of the 2d Flattening, showing the Flattened 2d UV lines.
Figure 35: All graded sizes drawn
Redraw Sizes
This command will clear the screen and redraw all graded sizes of the 2d Flattening, showing the Flattened 2d UV lines.
Measures
Top Draft Line
This command will show where the ‘Top Draft Line’ is being measured.
Figure 36: Top draft line measure.
Bottom Draft Line
This command will show where the ‘Bottom Draft Line’ is being measured.
Figure 37: Bottom draft line measure.
This command will show where the ‘Long Heel’ is being measured.
Figure 38: long heel measure
Short Heel
This command will show where the ‘Short Heel’ is being measured.
Figure 39: Short heel measure.
Cone Heel
This command will show where the ‘Cone Heel’ is being measured.
Figure 40: Cone heel measure.
Advanced
Halves
Draw Sizes
This command will draw all graded sizes of the 2D halves without Symmetry
Redraw Sizes
This command will clear the screen and redraw all graded sizes of the 2D halves without Symmetry
Draw Stress
This command will draw the inside and outside halves, showing the stress that has been applied in the Flattening process
Redraw Stress
This command will draw the inside and outside halves, clearing the screen and showing the stress that has been applied in the Flattening process.
Figure 41: Halves showing stress from the flattening process.
Draw Coloured Stress
This command will draw the inside and outside halves in colour, showing the lighter areas where there is more stress, and the darker areas where there is less stress.
Figure 42: Halves showing coloured stress from the flattening process.
Draw Halves Original
This command will draw the inside and outside halves without any symmetry
Redraw Halves Original
This command will clear the screen and redraw the inside and outside halves without any symmetry.
Form
Draw Stress
Figure 43: Flattened forme showing stress from the flattening process.
Redraw Stress
This command will clear the screen and redraw the Flattened Forme, showing the stress that has been applied in the Flattening process.
Draw Coloured Stress
This command will draw the inside and outside Formes in colour, showing the lighter areas where there is more stress, and the darker areas where there is less stress.
Figure 44: Flattened forme, coloured, showing stress from the flattening process.
Draw
This command will draw the Flattened Forme, showing the UV lines.
Redraw
This command will clear the screen and redraw the Flattened Forme, showing the UV lines.
Style
Draw
This command will draw the Flattened Forme.
Redraw
This command will clear the screen and redraw the Flattened Forme.
Draw Sizes
Figure 45: All graded sizes drawn of 2d flattened forme.
Redraw Sizes
This command will clear the screen and redraw all graded sizes of the 2D Flattened Formes Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC
Delete
Halves
This command will delete the Flattened halves of the current size
Halved Selected Sizes
This command will delete the Flattened halves for the selected sizes
Flattening
This command will delete the current selected Flattening
Flattening Selected Graded Sizes
This command will delete the current selected Flattened formes for all graded sizes. Please note the Model size selected Flattening will be kept.
Bottom
This command will draw the bottom flattening showing the UV lines.
Figure 46: Bottom flattening showing UV lines.
Redraw
This command will clear the screen and redraw the bottom flattening showing the UV lines
Draw Sizes
This command will draw the bottom flattening in all grade sizes, showing the UV lines
Redraw Sizes
This command will clear the screen redraw the bottom flattening in all grade sizes, showing the UV lines.
Draw Stress
This command will draw the Flattened bottom, showing the stress that has been applied in the Flattening process.
Figure 47: Bottom Flattening showing stress applied through the Flattening process
Redraw Stress
This command will clear the screen and redraw the Flattened bottom, showing the stress that has been applied in the Flattening process
Last Bottom Pattern
This command will automatically create a packet and piece call LBP (last bottom pattern). Please note you must save as a Project to recall the LBP piece.
Figure 48: Last Bottom Pattern (LBP)
Draw Intersections
This command will draw the intersections as crosses, of the upper style line onto the LBP (last bottom pattern). The crosses positions can then be used for reference of ‘notches’ or markers etc.
Figure 49: Last Bottom Pattern showing draw intersection crosses
Figure 50: 3D last showing style lines that intersect with the Last bottom pattern
Redraw Intersections
This command will clear the screen and redraw the intersections as crosses, of the upper style line onto the LBP (last bottom pattern). The crosses positions can then be used for reference of ‘notches’ or markers etc.
Please note you must show the layer ‘cross’ to see this.
Recalculate Current Size
This command will re-create the bottom flattening, this is necessary when the last has been modified.
Recalculate Sizes
This command will re-create the bottom Flattenings for all graded sizes, this is necessary when the last has been modified.
Bottom Pattern
Selecting the Bottom Pattern will produce the following menu. The options in this menu will allow the user to modify the 2D bottom pattern and apply the modifications to the 3D Last.
Figure 51: the Last Bottom modify menu Digitise shape
This option would be used if the user wanted to digitise in a new 2D bottom pattern and apply that shape to the 3D Last. Please note the nodes on the new bottom pattern must be the same number as the 3D Last UV patchwork lines, and