Can you import points from Microsoft Excel into CATIA?

Importing points from Excel to CATIA V5 allows users to efficiently create complex geometries, such as splines or lofted surfaces, by leveraging pre-defined coordinate data. This is particularly useful for applications like aerodynamics, structural design, or reverse engineering. To import points using the built-in macro functionality:

1. Locate the macro file
   1. Navigate to the CATIA installation directory (e.g., C:Program FilesDassault SystemesB26win_b64codecommand).
   2. Find the file named GSD_PointSplineLoftFromExcel.xls.
2. Open the macro file in Microsoft Excel
   1. Copy the file to a convenient location (e.g., your desktop) and open it in Excel.
   2. Enable macros by navigating to options > trust center > trust center settings > macro settings, and select enable all macros.
3. Input coordinate data
   1. Populate the Sheet1 tab with your X, Y, and Z coordinates in the designated columns.
   2. Define start and end points for curves or lofts using fields like StartCurve and EndCurve.
4. Run the macro
   1. Open CATIA V5 with a new or existing part file.
   2. In Excel, press Alt + F8 to open the macro menu.
   3. Select Feuil1.Main and click run.
   4. Choose an output option (e.g., 1 for points, 2 for splines, or 3 for lofts).
5. Check your CATIA model
   1. The imported points, curves, or surfaces will appear in a new Geometrical Set within your part file.
6. If you encounter errors like “object doesn’t support this property or method”
   1. Open the VBA editor in Excel (Alt + F11).
   2. Locate the line Set MyPart = CATIA.ActiveEditor.ActiveObject.
   3. Replace it with Set MyPart = CATIA.ActiveDocument.Part.
   4. Save and re-run the macro.

You can also use this method to create splines or lofted surfaces:

• Use multiple sets of points between StartCurve and EndCurve fields to generate splines.
• Combine splines into a lofted surface by specifying start and end loft fields.