Macros ((free)): Aveva E3d
Every element in E3D has attributes (e.g., XLEN , YLEN , ZLEN for a box; POS for position; SPEC for specification). PML macros read and modify these attributes using simple syntax.
Always check if the user has selected the correct element type before executing attribute modifications. Use HANDLE blocks to catch unexpected errors gracefully.
While PML's syntax is simple, the logic in a 50-line macro can be complex. Use ! at the start of a line to add comments. Good comments explain the "why" behind the code, not just the "what."
Writing a basic macro requires no external compilation tools. You can write PML scripts directly in a standard text editor like Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code. Step 1: The Code aveva e3d macros
mechanism for invoking macros remains available, and most existing PML code from older versions (like PDMS) works unmodified. Advanced Customization Capabilities UI Form Design
Below is a practical example of a PML1/PML2 macro designed to quickly generate a standard vertical vessel with a standard naming convention.
Macros can automate the creation of pipe branches based on standardized specs, ensuring consistent routing and component placement. 3. Clash Management Every element in E3D has attributes (e
Build a macro that presents a text menu:
: Brief visual guides for setting up productivity tools can be found on YouTube . E3D Productivity : Quick Macro
Instead of writing one massive 2,000-line macro, break your code into smaller, reusable functions (e.g., one function to fetch data, one to validate it, and one to build the 3D geometry). Conclusion Use HANDLE blocks to catch unexpected errors gracefully
The classic, robust scripting language native to AVEVA products (PDMS and E3D). It is highly readable and specifically tailored for database querying and manipulation.
| Feature | Macro (.mac) | PML Function | .NET Plugin | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Low (Sequential) | Medium | High (Full OOP) | | Recording | Yes (Native) | No | No | | Error Handling | Limited | Advanced | Full Try-Catch | | Best For | Batch operations, Standard positioning | Custom forms, Logic flows | Deep integrations |
-- This is a comment in AVEVA PML -- Ensure the user is in the Design module and at a valid hierarchy level NEW EQUI /DEMO-VESSEL NEW CYLI XLEN 1000 DIA 500 DIR Y POS E0 N0 U2000 -- Refresh the 3D graphical canvas REPRESET Use code with caution. Step 2: Running the Macro in E3D Open AVEVA E3D Design. Open the (or Display Console). Type the following command, pointing to your file path: $M /C:\YourFolder\create_equipment.mac Use code with caution.
-- macro: nozzle.mac (Usage: MACRO nozzle A 150 1000 N 200) $ Name, Size, East, North, Up, Direction DEFINE N_NAME 'ARGV[1]' DEFINE N_SIZE ARGV[2] DEFINE N_EAST ARGV[3] DEFINE N_NORTH ARGV[4] DEFINE N_UP ARGV[5] DEFINE N_DIR 'ARGV[6]'
-- This is a comment line NEW ZONE /ZONE-PIPING-AREA1 NEW SITE /SITE-PROCESS-PLANT Use code with caution. 2. Variables