Since Milestone 2, we added a screenshot sequence option to our working prototype with the use of the NX Journal Programming Method.

Our plug-in functions using a combination of three programming methods – SNAP (Siemens NX Application Programming), NX Open, and NX Journaling. All three of these are complementary, as they all utilize and are capable of compiling using the Visual Basic programming language.

As an option, we are considering adding support for an integrated NX utility, ‘Work Instructions Authoring’. This feature supports commented annotations and automated creation of text overlays. This is not required, but may be beneficial if the GE sponsor is interested and project work time allows.

Currently, our plug-in outputs screenshots of parts during simulated machining processes, automatically capturing each tool movement. By performing the necessary troubleshooting to discover the correct methods or functions to call, we were able to satisfy the main project objective – automating screenshot creation.

What remains is to adjust our code for flexibility, allowing for more part types, machine operations, amount of tool movements and image output formats.