Overview of PatternSmith
PatternSmith is a comprehensive pattern-making software designed to streamline the process of creating, editing, and cutting patterns for various materials, including vinyl, carbon fiber, leather, and more. Developed by Autometrix Precision Cutting Systems Inc., this software is tailored to meet the needs of businesses involved in fashion design, industrial automation, and other industries that require precise pattern cutting.
Key Features
1. Pattern Drafting and Editing
PatternSmith allows users to draft patterns from scratch or import them from other CAD programs. It supports a variety of graphic elements such as points, lines, polylines, splines, arcs, circles, and text, making it versatile for different design needs.
2. Grading and Marker Making
The software includes tools for grading patterns to different sizes and creating markers for efficient cutting. This ensures that patterns can be scaled and nested optimally.
3. Automated Nesting
PatternSmith features advanced automated nesting capabilities, allowing users to nest patterns manually or automatically to maximize material efficiency. It supports up to 99 tables of patterns on up to 99 different materials.
4. Seam Allowance and Notches
The software handles seam allowances and notches as element attributes, making it easy to adjust and manage these critical aspects of pattern making. Users can add, modify, or remove seam allowances with ease.
5. Material Library and Management
PatternSmith includes a material library where users can store and manage different materials. This feature allows for easy importation of materials into projects and customization of settings such as spacing from the fabric edge and between copies.
6. 3D Visualization and Fabric Simulation
The software offers 3D visualization and fabric simulation tools, enabling users to see how the final product will look and behave before cutting the material.
7. Cut Planning and Integration with Cutting Machines
PatternSmith integrates seamlessly with automated cutting machines, allowing users to assign plotting or cutting tools to pattern elements and send optimized cutting commands for smooth and efficient cutting.
8. Export and Import Options
The software supports a wide range of file formats, including DXF, AMA, Eastman, Gerber, and EPS, making it easy to import and export patterns between different projects and systems.
9. User Permissions and Technical Support
PatternSmith includes user permission settings to manage access and ensure that only authorized personnel can make changes. It also offers robust technical support to help users resolve any issues promptly.
Functionality
Project Organization
PatternSmith organizes patterns into projects, each containing all the necessary patterns, materials, and nested tables ready for cutting. This structured approach simplifies the workflow and ensures all elements of a project are managed within a single file.
Design, Edit, and Nest
Users can design patterns, edit them using powerful tools, and nest them for cutting. The software provides a split-view interface with a pattern view on top and a nesting view on the bottom, facilitating easy arrangement and nesting of patterns.
Plot and Cut
Once patterns are nested, users can assign cutting tools and send optimized cutting commands to the cutter, ensuring fast and accurate cutting. The software also provides real-time status updates during the cutting process.
PatternSmith is designed to enhance productivity, reduce material waste, and streamline the pattern-making and cutting process, making it an invaluable tool for businesses in various industries.