.. toctree::
   :maxdepth: 2
   :hidden:

.. _excel:


Simple Excel Model xlsx
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Excel-reader module
===================

A Simple Excel Model reader has been developed for internal use in ESA,
and is provided "as is". It is intended as a short term convenience, and
is not expected to be used for serious model exchange and archive because
the format is likely to change. This simple model format offers limited
functionality:

* The following standard STEP-TAS geometry primitives are available:
  rectangle, quadrilateral, triangle, disk, cylinder, cone, sphere and paraboloid;
* Transformations and rotations are not supported: all positions are absolute;
* Kinematics, cutting shells and combination shells are not supported;
* The model follows a simple flat structure.

Two example files, and a template xlsx file are available from within
the TASverterGUI by selecting the **File / Excel model format** menu option.
The files contain a Help sheet describing the available primitives,
as shown below,
and instructions on how to enter the geometry definitions, materials, etc.
on the different sheets.

.. figure: _excel_help_sheet2

.. image:: ../source/images/excel_help_sheet.jpg
   :scale: 80%
   :alt: Excel template help sheet

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Activation of the Excel-reader
------------------------------

The Excel reader module of TASverter can be activated using the command line option:

  *--from_xlsx=SimpleModel.xlsx*

When using the TASverterGUI, the "Model Type" of the "From" file must be set to
"Excel Model format".

.. _excel_reader:

.. image:: ../source/images/excel-reader.jpg
   :scale: 80%
   :alt: Activation of Excel format model reader via the GUI

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