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Converting & Transforming Technical Graphics

The document details a webinar hosted by Larson Software Technology and VizualSite LLC about transforming technical graphics, covering various topics such as data sources, graphic formats, and the importance of using best practices in graphic conversion. Key points include the challenges of reusing graphics from different formats, techniques for optimizing raster and vector data, and the software tools available for graphic creation and editing. Attendees participate in interactive polls to share their experiences with different file formats and CAD systems.

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Converting and Transforming Technical Graphics August 19th 2015 11am Eastern Time, USA Presenters – Don Larson, Larson Software Technology & David Manock, Vizualsite LLC Welcome to the Informational Webinar
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Agenda • Introduction • Housekeeping • Company Overview • Slide Presentation and Demos • Summary • Closing Information
Webinar: Housekeeping • All attendees will be muted for the duration of the Webinar • If you experience problems when joining the webinar please use the questions function to communicate • VOIP is the recommended audio option • It is possible to download handouts during the presentation • Post questions during the webinar using the panel • Questions will be answered following the main presentation or by a follow up email • Please vote in the interactive Poll, it is easy and private • The results will be live! www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2105
Interactive Polls www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 • At appropriate times during the webinar we will conduct a interactive Poll • The results will immediately follow the vote! • Questions: 1. What source file formats do you use to generate you technical technical graphics? 2. Do your graphics require hotspots? 3. What CAD System/s does your company use? Engage
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Larson Software Technology • Based in Houston, Texas • Founded in 1984, CGM Experts for 30 years • Develops powerful, innovative CGM graphics software, based on open standards • Promoting CGM Usage, VizEx Reader a free CGM and TIFF viewer • Member of the CGM Open Foundation • Larson technology simplifies the graphics workflow for Technical Publications Professionals, Engineers, Geologists, and Geophysicists.
Webinar Objectives www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 • Provide lessons learned when transforming technical graphics • Focus on common graphic source formats • Raster and Vector data • Describe the data preparation considerations and techniques to achieve the best results • Highlight the pitfalls of graphic conversion • Provide Tips, Benefits, Advice and Knowledge during the webinar • Summarize the graphic conversion and transformation process
Introduction www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 • The reuse of technical graphics produced in varying formats can be a significant challenge during the publications production process • Different file formats can present different issues and resolutions • Quality is a major consideration for the source data and output requirement for publishing • Using ‘Best Practice’ will reduce production time and costs
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Today’s Technical Graphics Process • Technical graphics are usually originated, generated or revised in a electronic format • Can also be legacy raster, a scan of a hard copy illustrations • The most likely starting point for a new technical graphic today is probably from a CAD system • This could be a 2D or 3D CAD source data • Spare part illustrations • Schematics • Wiring Diagrams • Draw from scratch – could be quicker • Dependent of availability and suitability of CAD data • Create illustration using a photograph as a template KNOWLEDGE: Computer Aided Design is mainly used for detailed engineering of 3D models and/or 2D drawings of physical components, but it is also used throughout the engineering process from conceptual design and layout of products.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Possible Data Sources • Legacy Hard Copy • Illustrations on paper or drafting film • Not very common today but could still exist • Raster file • Legacy format • Scanned line art illustrations • Intermediate format • Exported from 3rd party software, CAD possibly • Photographs a good example • Vector graphics • 2D or 3D CAD system • Many formats are possible and used • Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW • PDF • Embedded vector and raster data KNOWLEDGE: The word Raster originates from the term 'raster scan,' which was how old CRT monitors displayed images, by magnetically steering a concentrated electron beam line by line to form an image. KNOWLEDGE: Vector graphics is the use of geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and shapes or polygons—all of which are based on mathematical expressions—to represent images in computer graphics.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Poll #1 1. What source file formats do you use to generate your technical graphics?  Raster – Scans of original illustrations  Raster – Intermediate format, raster from CAD, photographic  Vector – Adobe Illustrator, PDF or other graphics format  Vector – CAD 2D  Vector – CAD 3D
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Raster Data
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Introduction – Raster Data • Raster legacy data still plays a significant role in the technical publications process • Source – e.g. photographs • Original – e.g. scanned line art • Delivery – e.g. TIFF files • Analysis of raster data can prove to be beneficial • Optimizing production process • Raster Data may require enhancements with the addition of hotspots • We will examine the possible pitfalls of this process (OCR) • Raster Data as an intermediate format • Correct decision at the time but now alternatives could exist? • Photographic files, intermediate and delivery
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Hard Copy – Raster Data • Rare - Hard Copy - The lowest common denominator • Quality • Dependent on the storage of the illustrations • What generation are they? originals or copies • BENEFIT: If the original or the copy is of good quality then your going to achieve quality output • It could be worth investigating if the hard copy is still available • TIP: Is a re-scan possible to improve quality
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Clean-up – Raster Data • Quality of the legacy scan - Considerations? • It is unlikely you will be able to improve the quality of a scan apart from a general clean up • TIP: clean up scans using the well known raster editors, for example Adobe Photoshop & Corel Photo-Paint • The scans sometimes contain sporadic pixels (Noise) not part of the main image • The pixels can be removed using software functions, for example • Corel Photo Paint • Remove Noise • Adobe Photoshop • Despeckle • Dust & Scratches
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 File Formats – Raster Data • Raster File Formats • TIFF is the most common raster format for line art scans, usually using a compression algorithm to reduce the file size • Other raster formats include: • JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) • BMP (Bitmap Image File) • PNG (Portable Network Graphic) • PCX (PiCture eXchange) • GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) • TIP: Specifications compliance to S1000D etc. • Save the TIFF as part of a CGM file • It will retain its quality and properties • It can also be combined with Vector data KNOWLEDGE - TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) Industry-standard method for storing scanned and other digital black-and-white, grayscale, and full-color images. Developed mainly for desktop publishing, TIFF has found applications in several other areas such as computer aided design (CAD), fax transmission. TIFF saves detailed image information with each pixel, resulting in a relatively large data file.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Properties – Raster Legacy • DPI (Dots Per Inch) better known as image resolution • The DPI is a major factor when determining the scan quality (300 DPI a good baseline) • TIP: Right click the file and select Properties • The smaller the number the lower the quality • The publishing of the illustration is a major factor when considering if the DPI is acceptable • Higher resolution to maintain quality for print • The display on a laptop screen for example the DPI can be lower but if the viewing tool can zoom the user will see deterioration as they zoom-in
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Demo Comparison raster and vector data
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Analysis – Raster Legacy • TIP: If the raster quality is very poor, and the original data is available consider a re-scan • If possible consider increasing resolution of output • (200-300dpi) • TIP: Evaluate manually re-drawing as a vector illustration • Assess the longevity of the graphic and its future use • The cost versus use • Does the legacy illustration now exist in a CAD format • If yes, could be repurposed
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Auto-trace – Raster Legacy • An alternative to manual re-draw is Auto-Trace • The two major mass market graphics programs both have the facility • CorelDRAW - Centerline Trace • Adobe Illustrator – Image Trace • TIP: Perform tests on typical files before committing to this strategy • It could be quicker to re-draw than clean-up the trace • ADVICE: consider the longevity of the file how many more revisions could take place
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Transforming - Raster Data • Resizing, rotating etc. impacts the quality of the image • The technical term is Interpolation • In basic terms the pixels have to be remapped when transformed • ADVICE: this can effect the quality of your image • TIP: Artifact’s of interpolation can be used to improve the appearance HaloBlurringAnti-aliasing
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Intermediate Raster Data • Raster data can also originate from 3rd party software • Example's, CAD, Graphics software etc. • The possible reasons for using raster export: • The limitation's of the export options • The limitation's of the import options of target publishing software • Historical – we’ve always done it that way? • ADVICE: • Validate the export settings being used • Is it possible to increase the DPI of the export? • Is a vector option available?
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Intermediate Raster Data - 2 • Photographic data has always played an important role in publications • Predominantly used as a maintenance type illustration • It can be used directly and annotated appropriately • Alternative, the photograph can be used as a template • Traced to create line art version • BENEFIT: Relevant information can be highlighted and be distinct
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Poll #2 1. Do your graphics require hotspots?  Yes  No  In the future
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 OCR (Optical Character Recognition) • The BIG question why OCR a raster technical illustration? • Primary reason, illustration requires hotspot regions • OCR is a very good way of achieving a defined region • Dependency on quality of raster text • Spare Part illustrations are more likely to have hotspots • ADVICE: Assess suitability for OCR – is it capable of graphic hot spotting? • TIP: Data Analysis Steps: • Determine if characters sufficiently formed to make OCR viable? • Best Practice: Test a generic subset of data to determine viability • Use test results to select the best process
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 OCR (Optical Character Recognition) 2 • Test Passed: • Convert the whole batch of files using OCR software • Test Fails: • There are probably 2 options: 1. Regenerate the required text for the graphic and include hotspot information 2. Manually Hotspot the raster Data (Overlay)
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Demo Automated Hotspotting - OCR Process Manual Hotspotting Process
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Vector Data
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Introduction - Vector Data • Vector Data can be in varied formats • In the majority of cases it is preferable to Raster Data, mainly for quality reasons • BENEFIT: Vector Data can be scaled and the quality is maintained • True both for hard copy and on a computer display • The display of a vector file, enhanced display by using anti-aliasing • This ability will be software dependent (Viewer) • Vector Data Sources, the most common: • CAD Systems • General Graphics Software • PDF • Technical Writing software KNOWLEDGE: Anti-Aliasing (in computer graphics) a technique used to add greater realism to a digital image by smoothing jagged edges on curved lines and diagonals.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 CAD Systems - Vector Data • CAD Systems • Autodesk Inventor • Autocad • Catia • Creo Parametric (ProE) • Solidworks • Solid Edge • Siemens NX (Unigraphics)
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Poll #3 • What CAD System/s does your company use?  Autodesk  Catia  PTC Creo Parametric (ProE)  Siemens NX - Unigraphics  Solidworks
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 CAD File formats - Vector Data • CAD File Formats • 3D Data • CAD Native files • DWG native file format for AutoCAD data files • VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) • IGES • STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product model data) • ISO 10303 Standard • 2D Data • DXF • DWG • CGM • PDF KNOWLEDGE: Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) is a vendor-neutral file format that allows the digital exchange of information among computer-aided design (CAD) systems. KNOWLEDGE: Data Exchange File (DXF) The format is a tagged data representation of all the information contained in an AutoCAD® drawing file.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Demo Open 2D CAD Data (DWG)
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 CAD Data / Takeaways - Vector Data • Considerations when using CAD files • File sizes • 3D files sizes can be challenging • Select data exchange file formats carefully • Converted CAD files can contain polylines that increase file size • Conversion to a 2D file format, for example CGM will provide a more suitable file for publishing purposes • Removal of Extraneous Information • Layers • Legends • Text • The process needs to be automatic to be cost effective KNOWLEDGE: Polyline In computer graphics, a continuous line composed of one or more straight line segments.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 CAD Data / Takeaways - Vector Data 2 • Editing • Polylines can make the file difficult to edit (not Bezier curves) • Text can also be sometimes be converted to polylines • Text mapping can be an issue • Font substitution • Character positioning • ADVICE: Make sure text does not obscure the illustration • Wiring diagrams can be challenging • Text in tight areas
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 General Graphics Software - Vector Data • General Mass Market Graphics Software • 2D Data • Adobe Illustrator • CorelDRAW X7 • Commercial Industry requirements for graphic publishing are usually satisfied by already available formats • File Formats • AI (Adobe Illustrator) • PDF (Portable Document Format) • DWG • SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) • Specification driven industries may well require the CGM format to be valid • TIP: CorelDraw X7 does support CGM but not the profiles required for specification compliance
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Graphics Software Takeaways - Vector Data • Very good choice of export formats • PDF is now an open format so good potential to use as archive • SVG another open format • ADVICE: SVG probably not a good choice for an archive format • File sizes • Very good, usually small and easy to handle • Good compatibility with publishing software • ADVICE: • Do not support the CGM format for compliance with industry specifications • Not capable of adding hotspot information used in interactive manuals • TIP: To be specification compliant save as a TIFF, not ideal
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Specialist Illustration Software - Vector Data • 2D • PTC Arbortext IsoDraw – 3D import • Corel DESIGNER X7 – 3D import • Larson’s VizEx Edit – Native CGM • Auto-Trol - Tech Illustrator • Cortona2D Editor Pro • Antea’s Leonardo • 3D • CREO Illustrate • 3DVIA Composer • Cortona’s Rapid Manual
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Specialist Software Takeaways - Vector Data • Used in all areas of manufacturing • Including specification's driven Aerospace and Defense industries • Support for CGM is a given • Cost generally higher than general graphics software • Specific functionality will earn pay back • Very good choice of import and export formats • Very good handling of both 2D and 3D files • Good compatibility with publishing software • Especially electronic delivery for IETM’s
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 PDF Format - Vector Data • PDF (Portable Document Format) • In 2008 PDF became an ISO standard • ISO International Standard - ISO 32000-1 • All new releases of the format are governed by ISO • Interoperability was always the mission for PDF, ISO governance can only strengthen this objective KNOWLEDGE: Portable Document Format (PDF) A file format used to present and exchange documents reliably, independent of software, hardware, or operating system. KNOWLEDGE: ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental membership organization and the world's largest developer of voluntary International Standards.
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 PDF Format - Vector Data • PDF was based on PostScript another Adobe technology • Therefore it does support graphics primitives • Lines, Bezier curves etc. • Can also contain raster data • BENEFIT: You can open a PDF file in different graphics programs and edit them • ADVICE: Not all PDF files are creating equal, it is possible older PDF files will not have a vector structure • TIP: PDF can be a good export option from a CAD system
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Demo Open PDF file Publish PDF file
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Technical Writing Software - Vector Data • Technical Writing Software can contain graphics • Framemaker • Arbortext Editor • oXygen • ETC. • This data source is possible • Unlikely this will be the only source of graphical data • There are methods of retrieving the data • The method will vary depending on software • Raster or Vector Data
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 CGM – Supports Raster and Vector Data • Another good 2D format to consider is CGM • CGM (Computer Graphics Metafile) • An Open Non-Proprietary format • Actively governed and developed by the CGM Open Foundation • Ability to contain both Raster and Vector Data and retain attributes • Specifications compliant, S1000D and ATA • Interoperable • Can contain metadata, for example can contain hotspot information • TIP: Specialist software e.g. VizEx Edit a good choice to maintain CGM files
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Summary • There are many opportunities to source information to produce your technical graphics • The number of source formats is diverse • Selecting the appropriate one can be a challenge • The primary considerations should be, quality, re-use and publishing • Ideally choose a format that answers all of these criteria • Managing more than one file type can cause configuration control issues • We hope todays webinar has provided information that you found interesting and above all useful
Q&A www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015
www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2015 Closing Information • You can discover more information about Larson Software Technology at www.cgmlarson.com • A link to a recording of the webinar will be sent via email • All the materials will be available: • www.slideshare.net/donlarson1 • Twitter feed, follow us! • www.twitter.com/cgmlarson • Visit us at the S1000D User Forum, San Diego, CA • 21st-23rd September 2015 • Next Webinar: MacLean Engineering - Case Study - Transform CAD Data • Friday 0ctober 2nd 10am Central – Part of Manufacturing Day

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Converting & Transforming Technical Graphics

  • 1.
    Converting and TransformingTechnical Graphics August 19th 2015 11am Eastern Time, USA Presenters – Don Larson, Larson Software Technology & David Manock, Vizualsite LLC Welcome to the Informational Webinar
  • 2.
    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Agenda • Introduction • Housekeeping • Company Overview • Slide Presentation and Demos • Summary • Closing Information
  • 3.
    Webinar: Housekeeping • Allattendees will be muted for the duration of the Webinar • If you experience problems when joining the webinar please use the questions function to communicate • VOIP is the recommended audio option • It is possible to download handouts during the presentation • Post questions during the webinar using the panel • Questions will be answered following the main presentation or by a follow up email • Please vote in the interactive Poll, it is easy and private • The results will be live! www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson Software Technology (c) 2105
  • 4.
    Interactive Polls www.cgmlarson.com Copyright LarsonSoftware Technology (c) 2015 • At appropriate times during the webinar we will conduct a interactive Poll • The results will immediately follow the vote! • Questions: 1. What source file formats do you use to generate you technical technical graphics? 2. Do your graphics require hotspots? 3. What CAD System/s does your company use? Engage
  • 5.
    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Larson Software Technology • Based in Houston, Texas • Founded in 1984, CGM Experts for 30 years • Develops powerful, innovative CGM graphics software, based on open standards • Promoting CGM Usage, VizEx Reader a free CGM and TIFF viewer • Member of the CGM Open Foundation • Larson technology simplifies the graphics workflow for Technical Publications Professionals, Engineers, Geologists, and Geophysicists.
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    Webinar Objectives www.cgmlarson.com Copyright LarsonSoftware Technology (c) 2015 • Provide lessons learned when transforming technical graphics • Focus on common graphic source formats • Raster and Vector data • Describe the data preparation considerations and techniques to achieve the best results • Highlight the pitfalls of graphic conversion • Provide Tips, Benefits, Advice and Knowledge during the webinar • Summarize the graphic conversion and transformation process
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    Introduction www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 • The reuse of technical graphics produced in varying formats can be a significant challenge during the publications production process • Different file formats can present different issues and resolutions • Quality is a major consideration for the source data and output requirement for publishing • Using ‘Best Practice’ will reduce production time and costs
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Today’s Technical Graphics Process • Technical graphics are usually originated, generated or revised in a electronic format • Can also be legacy raster, a scan of a hard copy illustrations • The most likely starting point for a new technical graphic today is probably from a CAD system • This could be a 2D or 3D CAD source data • Spare part illustrations • Schematics • Wiring Diagrams • Draw from scratch – could be quicker • Dependent of availability and suitability of CAD data • Create illustration using a photograph as a template KNOWLEDGE: Computer Aided Design is mainly used for detailed engineering of 3D models and/or 2D drawings of physical components, but it is also used throughout the engineering process from conceptual design and layout of products.
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Possible Data Sources • Legacy Hard Copy • Illustrations on paper or drafting film • Not very common today but could still exist • Raster file • Legacy format • Scanned line art illustrations • Intermediate format • Exported from 3rd party software, CAD possibly • Photographs a good example • Vector graphics • 2D or 3D CAD system • Many formats are possible and used • Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW • PDF • Embedded vector and raster data KNOWLEDGE: The word Raster originates from the term 'raster scan,' which was how old CRT monitors displayed images, by magnetically steering a concentrated electron beam line by line to form an image. KNOWLEDGE: Vector graphics is the use of geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and shapes or polygons—all of which are based on mathematical expressions—to represent images in computer graphics.
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Poll #1 1. What source file formats do you use to generate your technical graphics?  Raster – Scans of original illustrations  Raster – Intermediate format, raster from CAD, photographic  Vector – Adobe Illustrator, PDF or other graphics format  Vector – CAD 2D  Vector – CAD 3D
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Raster Data
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Introduction – Raster Data • Raster legacy data still plays a significant role in the technical publications process • Source – e.g. photographs • Original – e.g. scanned line art • Delivery – e.g. TIFF files • Analysis of raster data can prove to be beneficial • Optimizing production process • Raster Data may require enhancements with the addition of hotspots • We will examine the possible pitfalls of this process (OCR) • Raster Data as an intermediate format • Correct decision at the time but now alternatives could exist? • Photographic files, intermediate and delivery
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Hard Copy – Raster Data • Rare - Hard Copy - The lowest common denominator • Quality • Dependent on the storage of the illustrations • What generation are they? originals or copies • BENEFIT: If the original or the copy is of good quality then your going to achieve quality output • It could be worth investigating if the hard copy is still available • TIP: Is a re-scan possible to improve quality
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Clean-up – Raster Data • Quality of the legacy scan - Considerations? • It is unlikely you will be able to improve the quality of a scan apart from a general clean up • TIP: clean up scans using the well known raster editors, for example Adobe Photoshop & Corel Photo-Paint • The scans sometimes contain sporadic pixels (Noise) not part of the main image • The pixels can be removed using software functions, for example • Corel Photo Paint • Remove Noise • Adobe Photoshop • Despeckle • Dust & Scratches
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 File Formats – Raster Data • Raster File Formats • TIFF is the most common raster format for line art scans, usually using a compression algorithm to reduce the file size • Other raster formats include: • JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) • BMP (Bitmap Image File) • PNG (Portable Network Graphic) • PCX (PiCture eXchange) • GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) • TIP: Specifications compliance to S1000D etc. • Save the TIFF as part of a CGM file • It will retain its quality and properties • It can also be combined with Vector data KNOWLEDGE - TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) Industry-standard method for storing scanned and other digital black-and-white, grayscale, and full-color images. Developed mainly for desktop publishing, TIFF has found applications in several other areas such as computer aided design (CAD), fax transmission. TIFF saves detailed image information with each pixel, resulting in a relatively large data file.
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Properties – Raster Legacy • DPI (Dots Per Inch) better known as image resolution • The DPI is a major factor when determining the scan quality (300 DPI a good baseline) • TIP: Right click the file and select Properties • The smaller the number the lower the quality • The publishing of the illustration is a major factor when considering if the DPI is acceptable • Higher resolution to maintain quality for print • The display on a laptop screen for example the DPI can be lower but if the viewing tool can zoom the user will see deterioration as they zoom-in
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Demo Comparison raster and vector data
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Analysis – Raster Legacy • TIP: If the raster quality is very poor, and the original data is available consider a re-scan • If possible consider increasing resolution of output • (200-300dpi) • TIP: Evaluate manually re-drawing as a vector illustration • Assess the longevity of the graphic and its future use • The cost versus use • Does the legacy illustration now exist in a CAD format • If yes, could be repurposed
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Auto-trace – Raster Legacy • An alternative to manual re-draw is Auto-Trace • The two major mass market graphics programs both have the facility • CorelDRAW - Centerline Trace • Adobe Illustrator – Image Trace • TIP: Perform tests on typical files before committing to this strategy • It could be quicker to re-draw than clean-up the trace • ADVICE: consider the longevity of the file how many more revisions could take place
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Transforming - Raster Data • Resizing, rotating etc. impacts the quality of the image • The technical term is Interpolation • In basic terms the pixels have to be remapped when transformed • ADVICE: this can effect the quality of your image • TIP: Artifact’s of interpolation can be used to improve the appearance HaloBlurringAnti-aliasing
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Intermediate Raster Data • Raster data can also originate from 3rd party software • Example's, CAD, Graphics software etc. • The possible reasons for using raster export: • The limitation's of the export options • The limitation's of the import options of target publishing software • Historical – we’ve always done it that way? • ADVICE: • Validate the export settings being used • Is it possible to increase the DPI of the export? • Is a vector option available?
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Intermediate Raster Data - 2 • Photographic data has always played an important role in publications • Predominantly used as a maintenance type illustration • It can be used directly and annotated appropriately • Alternative, the photograph can be used as a template • Traced to create line art version • BENEFIT: Relevant information can be highlighted and be distinct
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Poll #2 1. Do your graphics require hotspots?  Yes  No  In the future
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 OCR (Optical Character Recognition) • The BIG question why OCR a raster technical illustration? • Primary reason, illustration requires hotspot regions • OCR is a very good way of achieving a defined region • Dependency on quality of raster text • Spare Part illustrations are more likely to have hotspots • ADVICE: Assess suitability for OCR – is it capable of graphic hot spotting? • TIP: Data Analysis Steps: • Determine if characters sufficiently formed to make OCR viable? • Best Practice: Test a generic subset of data to determine viability • Use test results to select the best process
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 OCR (Optical Character Recognition) 2 • Test Passed: • Convert the whole batch of files using OCR software • Test Fails: • There are probably 2 options: 1. Regenerate the required text for the graphic and include hotspot information 2. Manually Hotspot the raster Data (Overlay)
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Demo Automated Hotspotting - OCR Process Manual Hotspotting Process
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Vector Data
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Introduction - Vector Data • Vector Data can be in varied formats • In the majority of cases it is preferable to Raster Data, mainly for quality reasons • BENEFIT: Vector Data can be scaled and the quality is maintained • True both for hard copy and on a computer display • The display of a vector file, enhanced display by using anti-aliasing • This ability will be software dependent (Viewer) • Vector Data Sources, the most common: • CAD Systems • General Graphics Software • PDF • Technical Writing software KNOWLEDGE: Anti-Aliasing (in computer graphics) a technique used to add greater realism to a digital image by smoothing jagged edges on curved lines and diagonals.
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 CAD Systems - Vector Data • CAD Systems • Autodesk Inventor • Autocad • Catia • Creo Parametric (ProE) • Solidworks • Solid Edge • Siemens NX (Unigraphics)
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Poll #3 • What CAD System/s does your company use?  Autodesk  Catia  PTC Creo Parametric (ProE)  Siemens NX - Unigraphics  Solidworks
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 CAD File formats - Vector Data • CAD File Formats • 3D Data • CAD Native files • DWG native file format for AutoCAD data files • VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) • IGES • STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product model data) • ISO 10303 Standard • 2D Data • DXF • DWG • CGM • PDF KNOWLEDGE: Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) is a vendor-neutral file format that allows the digital exchange of information among computer-aided design (CAD) systems. KNOWLEDGE: Data Exchange File (DXF) The format is a tagged data representation of all the information contained in an AutoCAD® drawing file.
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Demo Open 2D CAD Data (DWG)
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 CAD Data / Takeaways - Vector Data • Considerations when using CAD files • File sizes • 3D files sizes can be challenging • Select data exchange file formats carefully • Converted CAD files can contain polylines that increase file size • Conversion to a 2D file format, for example CGM will provide a more suitable file for publishing purposes • Removal of Extraneous Information • Layers • Legends • Text • The process needs to be automatic to be cost effective KNOWLEDGE: Polyline In computer graphics, a continuous line composed of one or more straight line segments.
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 CAD Data / Takeaways - Vector Data 2 • Editing • Polylines can make the file difficult to edit (not Bezier curves) • Text can also be sometimes be converted to polylines • Text mapping can be an issue • Font substitution • Character positioning • ADVICE: Make sure text does not obscure the illustration • Wiring diagrams can be challenging • Text in tight areas
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 General Graphics Software - Vector Data • General Mass Market Graphics Software • 2D Data • Adobe Illustrator • CorelDRAW X7 • Commercial Industry requirements for graphic publishing are usually satisfied by already available formats • File Formats • AI (Adobe Illustrator) • PDF (Portable Document Format) • DWG • SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) • Specification driven industries may well require the CGM format to be valid • TIP: CorelDraw X7 does support CGM but not the profiles required for specification compliance
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Graphics Software Takeaways - Vector Data • Very good choice of export formats • PDF is now an open format so good potential to use as archive • SVG another open format • ADVICE: SVG probably not a good choice for an archive format • File sizes • Very good, usually small and easy to handle • Good compatibility with publishing software • ADVICE: • Do not support the CGM format for compliance with industry specifications • Not capable of adding hotspot information used in interactive manuals • TIP: To be specification compliant save as a TIFF, not ideal
  • 37.
    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Specialist Illustration Software - Vector Data • 2D • PTC Arbortext IsoDraw – 3D import • Corel DESIGNER X7 – 3D import • Larson’s VizEx Edit – Native CGM • Auto-Trol - Tech Illustrator • Cortona2D Editor Pro • Antea’s Leonardo • 3D • CREO Illustrate • 3DVIA Composer • Cortona’s Rapid Manual
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Specialist Software Takeaways - Vector Data • Used in all areas of manufacturing • Including specification's driven Aerospace and Defense industries • Support for CGM is a given • Cost generally higher than general graphics software • Specific functionality will earn pay back • Very good choice of import and export formats • Very good handling of both 2D and 3D files • Good compatibility with publishing software • Especially electronic delivery for IETM’s
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 PDF Format - Vector Data • PDF (Portable Document Format) • In 2008 PDF became an ISO standard • ISO International Standard - ISO 32000-1 • All new releases of the format are governed by ISO • Interoperability was always the mission for PDF, ISO governance can only strengthen this objective KNOWLEDGE: Portable Document Format (PDF) A file format used to present and exchange documents reliably, independent of software, hardware, or operating system. KNOWLEDGE: ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental membership organization and the world's largest developer of voluntary International Standards.
  • 40.
    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 PDF Format - Vector Data • PDF was based on PostScript another Adobe technology • Therefore it does support graphics primitives • Lines, Bezier curves etc. • Can also contain raster data • BENEFIT: You can open a PDF file in different graphics programs and edit them • ADVICE: Not all PDF files are creating equal, it is possible older PDF files will not have a vector structure • TIP: PDF can be a good export option from a CAD system
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Demo Open PDF file Publish PDF file
  • 42.
    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Technical Writing Software - Vector Data • Technical Writing Software can contain graphics • Framemaker • Arbortext Editor • oXygen • ETC. • This data source is possible • Unlikely this will be the only source of graphical data • There are methods of retrieving the data • The method will vary depending on software • Raster or Vector Data
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 CGM – Supports Raster and Vector Data • Another good 2D format to consider is CGM • CGM (Computer Graphics Metafile) • An Open Non-Proprietary format • Actively governed and developed by the CGM Open Foundation • Ability to contain both Raster and Vector Data and retain attributes • Specifications compliant, S1000D and ATA • Interoperable • Can contain metadata, for example can contain hotspot information • TIP: Specialist software e.g. VizEx Edit a good choice to maintain CGM files
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Summary • There are many opportunities to source information to produce your technical graphics • The number of source formats is diverse • Selecting the appropriate one can be a challenge • The primary considerations should be, quality, re-use and publishing • Ideally choose a format that answers all of these criteria • Managing more than one file type can cause configuration control issues • We hope todays webinar has provided information that you found interesting and above all useful
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    www.cgmlarson.com Copyright Larson SoftwareTechnology (c) 2015 Closing Information • You can discover more information about Larson Software Technology at www.cgmlarson.com • A link to a recording of the webinar will be sent via email • All the materials will be available: • www.slideshare.net/donlarson1 • Twitter feed, follow us! • www.twitter.com/cgmlarson • Visit us at the S1000D User Forum, San Diego, CA • 21st-23rd September 2015 • Next Webinar: MacLean Engineering - Case Study - Transform CAD Data • Friday 0ctober 2nd 10am Central – Part of Manufacturing Day