CATIA V5 customisation options
| Option | Language | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Macros (Automation API) | VBA, CATScript, VBScript; C# / Python via COM | Utilities, batch tasks, reports |
| Knowledgeware | Formulas, rules, checks, reactions | Design rules inside models |
| PowerCopies and UDFs | Templates | Reusable feature sets |
| Document templates | Templates | Reusable parts and assemblies with rules |
| CAA V5 (RADE) | C++ | Native workbenches, commands and features |
Automation API macros
The Automation API exposes parts, products, drawings and many workbenches through COM. It is ideal for property updates, drawing tasks, batch export and data extraction.
' CATScript / VBA: list parts in a product with their part numbers
Set product = CATIA.ActiveDocument.Product
For i = 1 To product.Products.Count
Set child = product.Products.Item(i)
Debug.Print child.PartNumber & " | " & child.DescriptionRef
NextKnowledgeware
Knowledgeware embeds engineering rules and checks directly in models: parameters driven by formulas, rules that adapt geometry, and checks that flag violations. Combined with PowerCopies and templates, it enables powerful knowledge-based engineering.
CAA V5 development
CAA (Component Application Architecture) gives C++ developers access to CATIA's internal frameworks. It is used for commercial add-ons and advanced in-house tools that need native commands, custom features or high performance. CAA development requires the RADE environment and specific Visual Studio versions per CATIA release.
Common automation use cases
- Batch conversion and export (STEP, IGES, 3D XML, PDF).
- Drawing automation: title blocks, views, BOM tables.
- Aerospace-specific tools: fastener placement, holes, composites support.
- Model quality checks for OEM requirements.
- BOM and property extraction for PLM and ERP.
Moving to 3DEXPERIENCE
Many companies are moving from V5 to CATIA on 3DEXPERIENCE. Automation migrates as well: VBA to EKL and web services, CAA V5 to CAA V6. Planning this early protects your investment.
OEM requirements change often. Automation keeps suppliers compliant without extra hours.