Hi all...I'm going to explain what I currently do and then explain what I want to do. Please let me know if I'm barking up the wrong tree or if there is a better way to go about it.
--(background) I have a drawing file with multiple layouts. There is a block named "piece mark" that is placed multiple times on each layout. This block has two tags "piece_mark" and "piece_page". The attribute value for "piece_mark" is entered manually each time the block is added to the drawing (this block attribute value can have an unlimited number of variations in a given job) "piece_page" is filled using a field.
--(current process) Currently I use the data extraction (eattext) on each layout, following all of the dialog screens. I use the first extraction as a template for all of the others. I overwrite the .xls file that is written each time. Sounds weird, but it's the only way I can get "piece_page" to return the correct result. I use the Excel file as an aid for tracking the shop tickets I have to create. I then insert a table onto our cover sheet using the Draw > table, then selecting "from a data link"
--(what I want to do)
1. I want to automate the data extraction. I always use it for the same block name, with the same attributes.
2. In the automation, I want to be able to select an extraction template that does not get overwritten. The new .dxe file(s) that are created need to be directed into a specific job folder.
3. I need to be able to output the extraction to an Excel file that I can name on the fly. Again, saved into a specific job folder.
4. I want to automate the Draw>table "from a data link" routine by automatically going to the point of the command where it asks for the "data link name" after selecting "create a new Excel data link"
Is this realistic or just a pipe dream?
Am I looking at a couple of Lisps or scripts?
If AutoLisp is the answer, can someone point me to a really good Lisp book? I've spent a lot of time reading the AutoLISP forum on here and searching the net, but I just wanted to make sure this is doable before I spend a lot of time on it.
Thanks in advance for any help.