Philippe ROSSIGNOL myCADtools: How to completely restructure a database with FindDocuments?
FindDocuments is part of the myCADtools suite of tools for SOLIDWORKS. Included in the myCADservices Premium subscription, myCADtools allow you to automate recurring tasks in SOLIDWORKS.
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Using FindDocuments: follow the step-by-step instructions!
Restructuring a file database can be a complex task, especially when it comes to maintaining references and dependencies between files.
Example: after moving files into sub-folders to restructure your database, when you open your assembly SOLIDWORKS will tell you that references have been lost.
myCADtools' FindDocuments tool simplifies this process by allowing you to search, rename and restructure files while keeping references intact. Here's how to use this feature to completely restructure a database.
Step 1: Access FindDocuments
Open myCADtools
Launch the myCADtools application and go to the "Data management" tab to find the FindDocuments tool.
Select FindDocuments
Click on "Run" to open the tool.
Step 2: Prepare for restructuring
Analyze the database
Import your database files into FindDocuments. The tool will analyze the files and their references.
Check references
Before moving or renaming files, make sure that all references are correctly identified.
Step 3: Repair references
Use FindDocuments to repair references
Use FindDocuments' reference repair feature to analyze the database and update the paths of moved files.
Example
FindDocuments will search for moved files and update references in assemblies.
Launch repair: Select the option in the "Modification" tab and launch the operation.
Check results: Open the assemblies to check that all references have been correctly updated and that the files are present in the tree structure.
Step 4: Rename files
Define a renaming rule
Use the field concatenation tool to define a renaming rule based on SOLIDWORKS or Windows properties.
Example
Use the product_number property to rename files with a specific format, such as product_number-file_name.
Start renaming
Apply the rename rule to the entire database or to specific folders.
Update references
FindDocuments will automatically update references in assemblies to reflect new file names.
Benefits of restructuring with FindDocuments
Maintaining references
FindDocuments ensures that all references between files are maintained, preventing errors and data loss.
Flexibility
You can move and rename files to suit your specific needs, while maintaining a consistent structure.
Efficiency
By automating reference repair and renaming, you save time and reduce the risk of manual errors.
Restructuring a database with FindDocuments is an efficient and reliable process. By following these steps, you can optimally organize your SOLIDWORKS files while keeping references intact. Use FindDocuments's advanced features to move, rename and restructure your files precisely and efficiently.
👉 For more details on this tool, please consult the online help: FindDocuments