Description
MacroGenerator is the pattern programming system used with PatternMaker 7.5. It allows pattern makers, designers, educators, and software developers to create intelligent pattern-generating applications called macros. Instead of drawing a pattern manually every time, a macro can automatically draft a pattern based on measurements, style options, and design selections entered by the user.
A MacroGenerator project contains the instructions, calculations, geometry, measurements, and user interface required to create a complete pattern. When the macro is run in PatternMaker, it asks the user for measurements and style choices, performs all calculations automatically, and generates the finished pattern instantly.
MacroGenerator transforms traditional pattern drafting methods into reusable digital systems that can generate thousands of pattern variations without redrawing the pattern each time.
Macro files can be sent as email attachments to other PatternMaker users.
MacroGen Features
- Create a list of measurement prompts to guide the user
- Save calculations in internal variables
- Define math calculations for the marked points, using measurements as inputs
- Use more than 15 built-in math formulas including distance, scaling, intersections of curves, and more
- Mark points (calculate X and Y values)
- Add dialog boxes to prompt users for choices
- View logical branches of “If” logic in MacroGen.
- Draw a pattern based on the calculated points
- Jump between logical branches with ease
- Sell macro files online
When your customer purchases a macro:
- Garments you designed are custom-drafted for the customer’s own measurements
- Customers can print and sew the results
How MacroGen Works
Set up the necessary measurements
- Create a list of variables for live-subject measurements
- Use any measurement units you want
- Create a custom draft of your pattern based on measurements provided by the user
Enter points that outline the pattern piece
- Add points using X,Y coordinates in a grid system
- Use your measurement variables to position new points (Point B is “center back length” away from Point A)
- Save calculated points and internal values as named variables
- Extensive “Add Point” options make mathematical calculations look like drafting on paper: find a midpoint, continue a line, draw right angle, etc.
- Use any drafting system/fitting system you want to lay out your pattern
Organize advanced macro features
- Set up style options like neckline or sleeve variations
- Set up conditions to automatically change the patterns:
- based on measurements (if Waist Circumference is between xx and yy, draw one dart instead of two)
- based on previously-selected options (skip the “Sleeve Cuff Style” option if the user selected short sleeves)
Create pattern objects and edit in PatternMaker
- Connect the dots to create pattern objects from the points you’ve calculated.
- Send the objects to PatternMaker and move points, cut objects, slash-and-spread, etc. MacroGen can capture actions you take within PatternMaker and turn them into macro code. Operations like rotating a piece remain natural–they don’t turn into tricky trigonometry problems for the programmer.
- Save time by creating your basic pattern in MacroGen and then editing the details in PatternMaker
Customize the appearance
- Add your own images (illustrations, etc) to dialog boxes
- Internationalization: Add a translation table so that your macro will run in your own language
