MLCad instructions for a MOC with optional modification.

[1963maniac]

I'm making instructions for a model with optional modifications to be shown after the main model. So the main model is shown without modification and then shown with modification. In other words removing a sub-model & adding a new sub-model to main model in MLCad. Can anyone explain how that is done or point me in the right direction. 

[SylvainLS]

Buffer Exchange.
You start it when you add the first submodel… up until the whole model is built.
And then you restart the build.

Basically bufex is like a parenthesis: 1 2 3 (4 5 6) 4’ 5’ 6’, when you close the parenthesis, it’s like it was never there.

That means that if the submodel you want to replace is not the last thing added, you’re rebuilding things you should have to rebuild (= when steps 5=5’ & 6=6’ above).

I don’t think there’s other solutions… except making multiple models and patching the instructions (PDF…) afterward.

[1963maniac]

The model I'm working on has three optional outputs: the original and two modifications. I want to show each of the three different versions. I'm not just moving sub-models. I have to remove one and replace it with a second sub-model and remove the second one and replace it with third sub-model also. It's a great ball contraption that can utilize one of three different outputs. My understanding of BUFEX is to use it to show location of part(s) by moving them into place using arrows. So, can BUFEX be used to remove and replace parts too? Otherwise, maybe I need to learn how to patch the instruction (PDF...) afterward.

[SylvainLS]

Don’t be confused with Studio’s implementation that only lasts for one step (and automatically adds arrows).  Or maybe there’s simplifications in MLCAD that also do that?  I don’t know MLCAD well.

In any case, Bufex is both very simple, very powerful, and limited: it creates an alternate reality from which you can come back.  In other words, it stores the current situation in a “buffer” (memory place) and that situation is restored when you exit bufex.

Your instructions go: step 1, 2, 3, <enter bufex> 4, 5, 6, <exit bufex>, 4’, 5’, 6’.  Every parts added in steps 4, 5, 6 are “removed”/“forgotten” and the instructions start again with the situation at the end of step 3.

[Toastie]

3 hours ago, SylvainLS said:

In any case, Bufex is both very simple, very powerful, and limited: it creates an alternate reality from which you can come back.  In other words, it stores the current situation in a “buffer” (memory place) and that situation is restored when you exit bufex.

Finally, I got that, thanks a million @SylvainLS!!! And of course @1963maniac for bringing this up!

All the best
Thorsten