Getting started

QSketchMetric is a tool designed to interpret parametric DXF files and render them. Parametrizing of a DXF file happens through QCAD Professional’s CAD software, which is a commercial software. The parametrized DXF file is then interpreted by QSketchMetric and rendered according to the mathematical expressions.

Why QSketchMetric?

QSketchMetric was born out of a genuine need. There was an evident demand for a Python tool capable of generating DXF 2D drawings based on parametric descriptions, rendering them according to provided variables. This tool enables a seamless workflow during the production process, particularly beneficial for devices like plotters.

Typical Use Cases

Consider a box’s cutting layout: with qsketchmetric, it can be dynamically rendered to adapt based on its desired size.

What is DXF file?

DXF (Drawing Interchange Format, or Drawing Exchange Format) is a CAD data file format developed by Autodesk for enabling data interoperability between AutoCAD and other programs.

DXF file versions supported

QSketchMetric supports DXF files newer or equal to R13 (Introduced in 1994).

How the documentation is organized?

Documentation follows diataxis structure. It is divided into the following parts:

  • Tutorials take you by the hand through a series of steps to start using QSketchMetric. Start here if you’re new to QSketchMetric.

  • How-to guides are recipes. They guide you through the steps involved in addressing key problems and use-cases. They are more advanced than tutorials and assume some knowledge of how QSketchMetric works.

  • Explanation guides discuss key topics and concepts of QSketchMetric.

  • Reference guides contain technical reference for all aspects of QSketchMetric’s machinery. They describe how it works but assume that you have a basic understanding of key concepts.