Before we get into the APT, Ive gotta ask ... you say you are plasma cutting - how is your code generated now? Are you using some other CAM software that isnt up to snuff?

I ask, because Ive already got code to output file formats for both Fabriwin .prt files (geometry only), and Maker, both of which run directly inside of AutoCad or SolidWorks. Also other 'goodies' for Fabriwin <wink>


>>The geometry of this part would be done in all small line segments
>> for the tight curves and longer line segments for the rest.

You will not be generating arcs? is there a reason for this? If the arcs arent supported on your control, its probably best to dice up the segments in code, rather than manually in the drawing. You'd need to have at least some sort of Global Constant, if not a function, to determine where the cutoff point is between 'small' and 'longer' line segments.

>>On a plasma cutter it needs to start at one end and work to the other
>>so some sorting would be in order

You sound like you've done this before. Back when I programmed sheet metal, I tried to keep closed shape geometry, which makes it easier to generate toolpaths, and also to figure out what is 'inside' and what is 'outside', not only for tool offsets, but for nesting. (No, don't ask; writing nesting algorithms about killed me)

Also, having closed shapes allows you to auto-generate 'microjoints', if needed, merely by strategically leaving 'breaks' in your geometry.

So I'd start by getting all the geometry out of the drawing, checking the integrity, then tweaking the geometry in memory to match the type of geometry needed for output.

How are your parts stored? A bazillion shapes in Modelspace arranged kind-of-next-to-each-other? Is there other data that needs to be carried along with the geometry - thickness, material, etc?