using arrow keys for mapkeys

[michaelpaul]

is it possible to use the up/down left/right arrow keys to start a mapkey?

I know I can use alpha-numberic combinations, and I can use the function keys by using $FX where x is the function key number. But, can I use the arrow keys?

Thanks.

 

[gkbeer]

Not a good idea, even if it could be done.



You might want one of these point of sale keyboards by Cherry.

Every key can fire off a different mapkey. And the keys can be marked any way you choose.


You just plug it in as a second kbd. It comes with software to program it.

I programmed every key to emit text in the order of /a1 /a2...
"a" being the column and the # being the row.

From there on out I just create a mapkey named /a1 or /b1 or such. Then create a small label to put under the transparent keykap. That label can have text, an icon or even just an arrow.


The really neat bit is that when entering the mapkey name in the mapkey dialog, you only need to hit a key on the point of sale kbd, and the name is entered.

View attachment 5724











Edited by: gkbeer

 

[ReinhardN]

http://www.mcadcentral.com/proe/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=35 194&KW=drawing+of+active+model&PN=0&TPN=2
describes a mapkey which uses a vbs script to access function keys of the keyboard under Windows. This may be a solution.
Reinhard

 

[michaelpaul]

Not a good idea, even if it could be done.

why do you think it would not be a good idea?

the arrow keys aren't used for anything in Pro-E (that I know of anyway) so it wouldn't override any pre-existing functionality.

it doesn't seem like it's possible but I'm curious why you are against it?

in SW you can use the arrow keys to rotate the model and you can set up the increment in the options. I have mapkeys that rotates my model 90 degrees about the horizontal and vertical axis so I never worry about front or back, I just pick one and then move my model to the orientation I want. but, it'd be much more straightforward and obvious to just use the left/right or up/down arrow keys to perform the rotatation.

 

[gkbeer]

In the SW example the function is baked into the software. When the cursor focus shifts away from the graphics, it behaves as it should.

Mapkeys do not respect input focus. They can be invoked with the cursor focus in the graphics, or in the message area to name two places where the cursor as as a cursor.

 

[acad]

Arrow keys can be used in ISDX, REX and Import Data Doctor for curves and surfaces CV manipulation.

 

[michaelpaul]

Arrow keys can be used in ISDX, REX and Import Data Doctor for curves and surfaces CV manipulation.

ahhh. I don't use those add-ons so I never knew the arrow keys were used for anything