AutoCAD Plugin for Parametric Solar Mounting System Design
In many solar energy companies, preparing mounting system layouts used to take several hours—or even days—due to the repetitive and detail-intensive nature of the process.
To address this bottleneck, I developed a custom AutoCAD plugin that enables parametric generation of mounting system layouts with just a few inputs.
Project Overview
The goal was to streamline repetitive engineering work in early-stage designs, minimize error rates, and improve operational efficiency. The plugin allows users to define profile types, connection details, and layout rules, and then automatically generates complete technical drawings.
My Contribution
Developed the entire plugin logic using AutoCAD’s API and VB.NET Built a modular infrastructure adaptable to different mounting systems and connection types (screws, rivets, studs, etc.) Integrated an ERP-compatible Bill of Materials (BOM) export feature Made the system flexible to accommodate various wind tunnel results for flat roof structures Enabled technical drawings to reflect on-site application logic, improving clarity for field teams
Outcomes
Reduced layout preparation time from several hours to under 15 minutes Significantly decreased human error in repetitive CAD tasks Allowed the engineering team to focus more on sales support and innovation Gave sales teams the ability to share preliminary, field-applicable technical drawings even during the quotation phase Helped customers visualize exactly how the system would be implemented on-site before making a purchase decision Enabled distributors and partner companies to use the plugin themselves to generate offers with greater speed and accuracy
Tools & Technologies:
AutoCAD API, VB.NET, Parametric Modeling, BOM Export, ERP Integration