Contents
- 1 3D CAD
- 2 CAD > Insert > Line
- 3 CAD > Insert > Circle
- 4 CAD > Insert > Arc
- 5 CAD > Insert > Text
- 6 CAD > Insert > Dimension
- 7 CAD Edit > CPL – Construction Plane
- 8 CAD Edit > Move/Stretch/Copy/Delete + More
- 9 CAD Edit > Trim/Divide
- 10 CAD Edit > Change
- 11 CAD > Inline
3D CAD
A full function 3D CAD modelling program is built into the Roof Wizard software. Not only is this the ‘engine room’ for Roof Wizard, all the capabilities you expect from a commercial 3D CAD system are at your finger tips. You may model the extension to your house or design a space ship. It can all be done.
CAD > Insert > Line
The Line Insert command enables the Line Insert sub-menu which allows the insertion of free, constrained, horizontal, vertical, angled, parallel, chord, tangential and perpendicular lines. A stream of adjoining lines, a rectangle comprising four lines and a series of lines which describe a specified number of equi-angled sectors within a selected angle can also be inserted. Not all these options are available from the Pulldown Menu. For the rest of the options, turn on the right hand menu and go to CAD > Line.
This menu can span more than one screen as it is very long. At the bottom of each screen menu is a Next and Last option that should take you to the appropriate screen text menu.
Free
Allows the insertion of any number of adjoining lines by continual selection of point locations.
The first point location selected is the start of a line and the second point location selected is the end of that line. Further lines will be inserted for each consecutive point location selected, where the endpoint of the preceding line is the start of the next line. The Abort button aborts further adjoining line insertions and allows another line or series of adjoining lines to be freely inserted.
Horizontal
Allows the insertion of lines that are horizontal with respect to the current CPL (i.e. parallel to the x- axis).
The start point of the line is selected first. A second point location is then selected which defines the length and direction of the line. The actual endpoint of the line is located at the intersection of a line projected from the start point parallel to the x-axis of the current CPL, and a line normal to that line which passes through the second point location.
Hor-Len
Allows the insertion of specified length lines that are horizontal with respect to the current CPL (i.e. parallel to the X-axis). The length of the line is specified followed by the selection of the start point of the line, a second point location is then selected which defines the direction of the line. The actual endpoint of the line is located at a point projected the specified length from the start point, parallel to the X-axis of the current CPL, in the direction defined by the second point location.
Vertical
Allows the insertion of lines that are vertical with respect to the current CPL (i.e. parallel to the y-axis).
The startpoint of the line is selected first. A second point location is then selected which defines the length and direction of the line. The actual endpoint of the line is located at the intersection of a line projected from the start point parallel to the y-axis of the current CPL, and a line normal to that line which passes through the second point location.
Ver-Len
Allows the insertion of specified length lines that are vertical from the current CPL (i.e. the same Y axis).
The length of the line is specified followed by the selection of the start point of the line. a second point location is then selected which defines the direction of the line (either up or down the Y-axis). The actual endpoint of the line is located at a point projected (the specified length) from the start point, on the same Y-axis as the current CPL, in the direction defined by the second point location.
Angle
Allows the insertion of lines at a specified angle relative to a reference line.
The reference line is selected and then the angle is specified. The angle specified is relative to the plane defined by the reference line endpoints and the startpoint of the new line. Its orientation is defined by the general direction of the new line relative to the reference line (i.e. start to end direction of new line).
The startpoint of the line is then selected (d2) and then a second point location is selected (d3) which defines the length and the general direction of the new line. The actual endpoint of that line will be located at the intersection of a line projected from the start point, at the specified angle, and a line normal to that line which passes through the second point location.
Angle-Len
Allows the insertion of specified length line at a specified angle relative to a reference line.
Constrained
Allows the insertion of any number of adjoining lines at a specified angle or multiple of that angle relative to the X-Y plane of the current CPL by continual selection of point locations.
The angle is specified followed by the selection of the point locations. The first point location selected is the start of a line and the second point location selected defines the length and general direction of the line. The actual endpoint of that line will be located at the intersection of a line projected from the start point at the specified angle or multiple of that angle and a line normal to that line which passes through the second point location selected.
Further lines will be inserted for each consecutive point location selected, where the endpoint of the preceding line is the start of the next line.
Rectangle
Allows the insertion of four lines which form a rectangle by defining two diagonal corners.
A point location is selected defining one corner of the rectangle. A rectangular window then displays with its diagonal corners being the first point location and the cursor. By moving the cursor, the rectangular window continually stretches allowing visualisation of the rectangle prior to selecting the opposite corner position. Four lines are then inserted forming a rectangle with the selected corner positions.
Par
Allows the insertion of lines parallel to a reference line. The reference line is selected, followed by the selection of a point location which defines the distance and position of the parallel line with respect to the reference line.
Second and third point locations are then selected which define the relative start and end points of the parallel line. The actual start and end of the parallel line will be located at the intersections of a line parallel to the reference line, passing through first selected point location, and two normals which pass through the second and third point locations respectively.
Par-Len
Allows the insertion of specified length lines parallel to a reference line. The reference line is selected, followed by specifying the length of the line. A point location, which defines the distance of the parallel line with respect to the reference line, is then selected.
Second and third point locations, which define the relative start and end of the parallel line, are then selected. The endpoint of the parallel line will be located at the specified length from the start point in the direction defined by the third point location.
Par=
Allows the insertion of lines parallel to, and a specified distance from, a reference line.
The reference line is selected followed by specifying the distance that is to be between it and the parallel line.
A point location which defines the general position of the parallel line with respect to the reference line is then selected.
Second and third point locations are then selected which define the relative start and endpoint of the parallel line. The actual start and end of the parallel line will be located at the intersections of a line parallel to the reference line at the specified distance from it, and two normals which pass through
the second and third point locations respectively.
Chord
Allows the insertion of lines as chords to a reference circle. The length of the chord is specified, followed by the selection of the reference circle.
The start location of the chord is then selected on the circumference of the reference circle and then a location is selected which defines the direction of the chord. The chord is then inserted with the specified length and its end location exactly on the circumference. If the start location is not exactly on the circumference, the actual start location is the intersection of the radial line passing through the selected location with the circumference.
An arc may be selected as a reference with this command but it will be regarded as a circle, therefore, the chord will be calculated for insertion using the imaginary circle and its start and end locations may not be situated on the arc.
T-Cir-Cir
Allows the insertion of a line that is tangential to two reference circles.
The reference circles are selected near the approximate tangency points and the line is inserted tangential to both circles between their respective tangency points near the approximate tangency points selected.
Arcs may be selected as references with this command, but they will be regarded as circles. The tangency points for inserting the line are calculated using the imaginary circle and therefore the start and end locations may not be situated on those arcs themselves.
T-Cir-Lin
Allows the insertion of a line that is tangential to a reference circle and at a specified angle to a reference line.
The reference circle is selected near the approximate tangency point, followed by the selection of the reference line at the appropriate location relative to the tangency point. The angle, between the reference line and the line tangential to the reference circle, is then specified. The line is then inserted from the tangency point on the reference circle nearest to the approximate tangency point selected to its point of intersection with the reference line at the specified angle to that line.
An arc may be selected as a reference with this command, but it will be regarded as a circle. The tangency point for inserting the line is calculated using the imaginary circle and therefore that endpoint may not be situated on the arc. This command regards the reference line as having infinite endpoint extensions. Therefore, the line inserted may have its endpoint lying on the extension of this line.
CAD > Insert > Circle
A circle is a model entity which is graphically defined by three associated points. These three associated points define the origin of the circle, the length of its first axis and the length of its second axis respectively. The first axis point is also the start/endpoint of the circle (i.e. the start/end of its circumference) and the second axis point is always located at right angles to it with respect to the origin, in a direction dependent upon the method of insertion and the current CPL.
A circle can be inserted freely or relative to existing entities (e.g. tangentially). The lengths of the axes of a circle are equal. An ellipse can be created by specifying different lengths for the axes. A circle can subsequently be trimmed and divided, and points can be generated around the circumference. Not all these options are available from the Pulldown Menu. For the rest of the options, turn on the right hand menu and go to CAD > Circle.
1. The visual display of circles and arcs can be suppressed by selecting the No option for the Circles modifier of the Defaults Vis-Model command.
2. The three associated points of a circle can be selected with the snap/help button for exact co-ordinate location but they cannot be deleted.
Circle Insert
The Circle Insert command enables the Circle Insert sub-menu which allows the insertion of circles by defining point locations, radii, diameters or curvature. Circles tangential to specific existing entities and perpendicular to an existing line can also be inserted. Ellipses can also be inserted by defining point locations or axis lengths.
3-Points
Allows the insertion of a circle whose circumference passes through three selected point locations. The first point location selected is the start/end of the circle’s circumference. Together with this first point location, the next two point locations selected define the size and orientation of the circle.
If the three locations selected are co-linear, a circle will not be inserted.
Radius
Allows the insertion of a circle whose radius is defined by selecting two point locations.
The first point selected is the origin of the circle; the second point is the start/endpoint of the circle, i.e. a point on the circumference of the circle.
Radius=
Allows the insertion of a circle with a specified radius.
The radius is specified, followed by the selection of the origin of the circle. The orientation of the circle is determined by the current CPL.
Diam
Allows the insertion of a circle whose diameter is defined by selecting two point locations.
The first point location selected is the start/endpoint of the circle and the second point location selected defines the diameter and orientation of the circle (i.e. distance and direction between the first and second selected point locations).
Diam=
Allows the insertion of a circle with a specified diameter.
The diameter is specified, followed by the selection of the origin of the circle. The orientation of the circle is determined by the current CPL.
Tang-Lin-Pnt
Allows the insertion of a circle with a specified radius that is tangential to an existing line and has its circumference passing through a selected point location. The radius is specified followed by the selection of the reference line. The reference point location is then selected followed by the selection of the approximate origin of the circle.
This results in a circle with the specified radius being inserted tangential to the reference line where its circumference passes through the reference point location. The start/endpoint of the circle is its tangent point on the reference line and the orientation of the circle is determined by this tangent point and the reference point location.
This command regards the reference line as having infinite endpoint extensions when determining its point of tangency with the resultant circle.
Tang-Lin-Lin
Allows the insertion of a circle with a specified radius that is tangential to two intersecting lines.
The radius is specified followed by the selection of the two reference lines near the ends from which the respective tangent points are to be calculated. This results in a circle with a specified radius being inserted tangential to the reference lines by calculating where it has tangent points on both lines simultaneously. Thus, the origin of the circle is placed on the bisector of the angle created by the two reference lines.
1. Reference lines are regarded as having infinite endpoint extensions to determine their points of intersection and their points of tangency with the resultant circle.
2. Lines are 3D model entities. Although they may appear co-planar in the current view, they may not actually be co-planar in 3D space. Although they may appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
Tangent 3 lines
Allows the insertion of a circle that is tangential to three co-planar lines. The three reference lines are selected near the ends from which the respective tangent points are to be calculated, followed by the selection of a point location which defines the approximate origin point of the desired tangential circle in relation to the reference lines.
This results in a circle being inserted tangential to the reference lines by calculating where it has tangent points on all lines simultaneously. It circumference will pass through all tangent points. The start/endpoints of the circle is the tangent point on the first reference line selected. The orientation of the circle is determined by the tangent points of the respectively selected reference lines.
- All three reference lines must not be parallel.
- None of the three reference lines can be co-linear.
- This command regards the reference lines as having infinite endpoint extensions when determining their points of intersection and their points of tangency with the resultant circle.
- Lines are 3D model entities. Although they may appear co-planar in the current view, they may not actually be co-planar in 3D space.
Tangent 3 circles
Allows the insertion of a circle that is tangential to three co-planar circles. The three reference circles are selected approximately at the tangential point of the desired circle.
This results in a circle being inserted tangential to the three reference circles, by calculating where it has tangent points on all three circles simultaneously. The circumference of the resultant circle will pass through all three tangent points. The Three reference circles must be co-planar.
CAD > Insert > Arc
An arc is a model entity which is graphically defined by five associated points. These associated points define the origin of the arc, the start of its circumference, the end of its circumference and the length of its first and second axis respectively. The startpoint also defines the length of the first axis of the arc (i.e. the first axis point).
The second axis point is always located at right angles to the startpoint, with respect to the origin, in a direction dependent upon the method of insertion and the current CPL.
An arc can be inserted freely or relative to existing entities (e.g. as a fillet or as a scallop). The lengths of the first and second axes are equal for a circular arc. An elliptical arc can also be inserted by specifying different lengths for its axes. An arc can subsequently be trimmed and divided, and points can be generated around the circumference.
An arc is only graphically different from a circle because of the extra endpoint. It can be considered as a graphical portion of a complete circle or ellipse. A circle can be considered as an arc whose angle between its endpoints subtends 360 degrees.
Arcs are therefore included with circles in the listing of the List Count command and are listed as circles by the List Verify command. The visual display of arcs and circles can be suppressed by selecting the No option for the Circles modifier of the Defaults > Vis-Model command.
The five associated points of an arc can be selected with the snap/help button for exact co-ordinate location but they cannot be deleted without deleting the arc.
Arc Insert
The Arc Insert command enables the Arc Insert sub-menu which allows the insertion of arcs by defining point locations, radii or diameters. Elliptical arcs can also be inserted by defining point locations or axis lengths.
3-Points
Allows the insertion of an arc whose circumference passes through three selected point locations. The first point location selected is the start of the arc’s circumference. Together with this first point location, the next two point locations selected define the size and orientation of the arc. The third location selected is the end of the arc’s circumference.
If the three point locations selected are collinear, an arc will not be inserted.
Radius
Allows the insertion of an arc whose radius is defined by selecting two point locations and whose subtending angle is defined by selecting a third point location.
The first point location selected is the origin of the arc and the second point location selected is the start of the arc’s circumference. The radius and the orientation of the arc is thereby defined (i.e. distance and direction between the first and second selected point locations).
The third location selected defines the arc’s subtending angle relative to the second location selected. The arc subtends an angle anti-clockwise to the current view, about its origin, from the second to the third point location. The actual end of the arc’s circumference lies on a line that projects from the origin to the third point location and is at the defined radial distance from the origin.
Radius=
Allows the insertion of an arc, with a specified radius and an origin defined by selecting a point location whose subtending angle is defined by selecting another two point locations.
The radius is specified, followed by the selection of the origin of the arc and then the selection of another two point locations that define the arc’s subtending angle.
Diameter=
Allows the insertion of an arc, with a specified diameter and an origin defined by selecting a point location, whose subtending angle is defined by selecting another two point locations.
The diameter is specified, followed by the selection of the origin of the arc and then the selection of another two point locations that define the arc’s subtending angle. The arc subtends an angle, anti-clockwise to the current view about its origin, from the second to the third point location.
The actual endpoints of the arc (i.e. start and end of the arc’s circumference) lie on lines that project from the origin to the two respectively selected point locations and are at the specified
radial distance (i.e. half the specified diameter) from the origin.
Angle=
Allows the insertion of an arc with a specified radius and subtending angle.
Radius Determines the radius of the arc.
Start Angle Determines the start angle, calculated anti-clockwise about the origin from the X-axis.
Sweep Angle Specifies the sweep angle, which is calculated about the origin, anti-clockwise to the current CPL from the start angle.
The arc is inserted about the origin, anti-clockwise to the current CPL from the start angle and therefore subtends an angle defined by the sweep angle, about its origin and anticlockwise to the current CPL, from the specified start angle. The endpoints of the arc (i.e. start and end circumference of arc) lie on lines that project from the origin at the specified angles and are at the specified radial distance from the origin.
Arc Fillet
The Arc Fillet command enables the Arc Fil sub-menu which allows the insertion of an arc as a fillet between:
• two point locations
• a point location and a line or circle
• two lines, circles or curves
• a line and a circle or curve.
The angle subtended by a fillet never exceeds 180 degrees.
CAD > Insert > Text
This section describes the commands associated with text entities. A text entity consists of one or more 2D alphanumeric characters and symbols which are normally specified via the keyboard. A text entity is inserted or changed subject to default or selected options. These options include font (style of characters), height, width, angle, slant, line and character spacing, justification, boxed, underlined, overlined, plot-sized, model or drawing.
A text entity can be inserted in several ways:
• at a specified point
• dynamically to the screen
• at an angle defined by two points
• parallel and associated to a selected line entity
• parallel and free from a selected line entity.
Not all these options are available from the Pulldown Menu. For the rest of the options, turn on the right hand menu and go to CAD > Text.
The text options of height, width, slant, spacing and justification are not related to the currently active CPL, but to the text entities themselves. Several text fonts will already exist but new text fonts can be created. Normally text entities remain on the CPL on which they were inserted for any selected view. Drawing text entities will always appear on a plane parallel to the screen and only in the view in which they were inserted.
A point entity, associated with a text entity will always appear at a location selected for the text entity. The text entity is located relative to that point entity using the point for the justification options assigned to the text entity. The points are not reproduced when text is plotted.
A maximum of 10 different text fonts can be used in one database model/sub-figure.
Text Insert
The Text Insert sub-menu allows the insertion of specified text entities and text nodes. A text entity can be inserted in several ways:
• point location
• dynamic point location
• at an angle defined by 2-points
• scaled between 2-points which also defines the angle
• only the width component scaled between 2-points which also defines the angle
• parallel and associated to a selected line, circle or arc entity
• normal to a selected line entity
• parallel and free from selected line entity.
Text entry is via the Enter Text dialog box for all Text Insert commands except the Dyn Point command.
The text entity is orientated such that the width and height are aligned with the X and Y axes of the current CPL respectively.
When selected, the Enter Text dialog box is enabled allowing the text to be specified. The defaults drag selection is active and the text entity will appear dynamically with the cursor movements. This assists in the accurate location of the text entities.
CAD > Insert > Dimension
A dimension is a model entity which is used to indicate various measured values of model entities.
All dimension entities are associative. If the model is changed, the dimension entity describing that part of the model is automatically updated. All dimensions are placed in one view only, the dimension is inserted in the view where the first location point is specified.
All dimensions are inserted relative to the currently active construction plane (CPL). A dimension entity usually consists of a combination of a value, prefix text, suffix text, line terminators, projection lines and leader lines. The dimension entity may be in the form of a linear, angular, radial, diameter or area dimension. Dimensions can be inserted without accompanying values. A dimension entity can be inserted with its value subject to several tolerance methods. These are Dual, Upper-Lower and Plus-Minus.
Angular dimension values may be specified in decimal or degrees:minutes:seconds notation. The actual values of dimension entities may be scaled to indicate other units of measurement. Entities are measured in model units, usually representing millimetres. The dimension entities are drawn to meet the requirements of the Australian Standards, AS1100 Parts 1 to 13. A dimension value can be inserted with standard or user specified prefix and/or suffix text, which can be subsequently edited.
Dimension value-text may be moved. All dimension value-text is assigned the option Plot Size /Plot Scale (i.e. the dimension values will always be plotted at the height specified, irrespective of the plot scale). Also, the weight for the value-text is always proportional to the text height assigned to the dimension entity. The terminator of the dimension lines can be selected from arrows (open or solid), dots (open or solid) and slashes. The length (or diameter) and height values of the terminators can be specified.
A dimension entity may have its terminators placed inside or outside the projection lines.
The gap, length and extension values of the projection lines of a dimension entity can be specified. Any projection line can also be visually removed.
Dimension Insert
The Dimension Insert command enables the Dimension Insert menu allowing the insertion of various types of dimension entities.
The types of dimension entities are:
• Value Only
• Horizontal
• Vertical
• Parallel
• Linear
• Common-Horizontal
• Common-Vertical
• Common-Parallel
• Parallel Line
• Common Points
• Horizontal Ordinate
• Vertical Ordinate
• Angular
• Angular Lines
• Leader
• Component Leader
• Multi-Lined Leader
• External Radial
• Internal Radial
• Diameter
• External Diametric Internal Diametric
• Distance
• Bearing
• Area.
Not all these options are available from the Pulldown Menu. For the rest of the options, turn on the right hand menu [Menu On/Off] and go to CAD > Dimension. The dimension entity is not only inserted subject to the method of insertion but also the specified default options.
Hor
Allows the insertion of a linear dimension entity whose dimension lines are parallel to the x-axis of the currently active CPL (i.e. the dimension lines are horizontal). The dimension value entity is the difference of the x-axis coordinates of the two selected dimension point locations. The location of the dimension line relative to the x-axis is selected first followed by the two or more location points being dimensioned. If Dimension Defaults Tolerance is not set to None and the Tol Entry is set to Manual, the upper and lower tolerance range values are specified and must include the required polarity.
If more than two point locations are selected, the value of the dimension entity is the difference of the x-axis co-ordinates of adjacent points. The dimension entity will lie on the currently active CPL. The value will be centrally placed between the projection lines.
Ver
Allows the insertion of a linear dimension whose dimension lines are parallel to the y-axis of the currently active CPL (i.e. the dimension lines are vertical). The value of the dimension entity is the difference of the Y co-ordinates of the selected point locations being dimensioned. The location of the dimension line relative to the y-axis is selected first followed by the two or more location points being dimensioned. If Dimension Defaults Tolerance is not set to None and the Tol Entry is set to Manual, the upper and lower tolerance range values are specified and must include the required polarity.
If more than two point locations are selected, the value of the dimension entity is the difference of the y-axis co-ordinates of adjacent points. The dimension entity will lie on the currently active CPL. The value will be centrally placed between the projection lines.
Par
Allows the insertion of a linear dimension entity where dimension lines are parallel to an existing line entity. The line entity is selected first followed by the desired location point for the dimension line relative to that selected line entity. Next, the two or more point locations to be dimensioned are selected. If Dimension Defaults Tolerance is not set to None and the Tol Entry is set to Manual, the upper and lower tolerance range values are specified and must include the required polarity.
If more than two point locations are selected, the value of the dimension entity is the distance between the adjacent points projected on the line from the selected points. The dimension entity will lie on the currently active CPL. The value will be centrally placed between the projection lines.
Diameter
Allows the insertion of a diameter dimension entity describing the value of a diameter of a selected circle entity. The dimension line is inserted inside the circle entity, passing through the centre. Two terminators appear at the intersection points of the dimension line with the circle entity circumference indicating the diameter of the circle.
The circle entity is selected first. Next, the leader corner is selected followed by the approximate end of the leader is selected. If Dimension Defaults Tolerance is not set to None and the Tol Entry is set to Manual, the upper and lower tolerance range values are specified and must include the polarity.
The circle / arc entity must lie parallel to the current active CPL. The diameter dimension entity lies on the currently active CPL.
Area
Allows the insertion of a dimension that displays the area of a plane entity. The desired point location of the area value is selected first, followed by the plane entity to dimension.
The value of the dimension entity lies on the currently active CPL with the base of the value parallel to the x-axis.
CAD Edit > CPL – Construction Plane
The construction plane is referred to as the CPL. It is a selectable and user definable 3D co-ordinate system that allows the location of the X-Y plane to be continually repositioned for easier and more efficient model
construction. In effect, the value of Z (unless otherwise specified) is always equal to zero, thus enabling the user to approach model construction such that the values of X and Y only, are the current significant components. If enabled, the current CPL is represented in the graphics display area by a symbol that
shows its X and Y axis positive directions. The symbol remains a constant size, relative to the screen, for all Zoom and View manipulations (except for some perspective view definitions).
The standard construction planes provided are Top, Bottom, Front, Back, Left, Right and Isometric. All of these standard CPLs originate about the absolute system coordinates X=0, Y=0 and Z=0. A new CPL can be defined by specifying three co-ordinate locations, manipulating existing CPLs by rotation and/or translation and alignment to user-defined views.
The selection of a suitable CPL, in conjunction with the appropriate View and Zoom selections, enables model construction to be achieved more easily and efficiently. In effect, the construction is performed by engaging a two dimensional approach to a three dimensional object, thus simplifying many of the procedures involved in complex 3D model creation. Although selection of a CPL will provide an active co-ordinate system, the model exists in an absolute model co-ordinate system which cannot be changed. The List Verify command will always display both the current CPL co-ordinates and the model co-ordinates of a selected entity.
Each CPL can display a grid with a user-specified spacing. The grid is a two dimensional array of uniformly spaced points that act as a visual and locating aid to model construction. The grid displays on the X-Y plane of the CPL originating at the CPL co-ordinates X=0, Y=0, Z=0.
The selection of a suitable CPL, in conjunction with the appropriate View and Zoom selections, enables model construction to be achieved more easily and efficiently. In effect, the construction is performed by engaging a two dimensional approach to a three dimensional object, thus simplifying many of the procedures involved in complex 3D model creation. Although selection of a CPL will provide an active co-ordinate system, the model exists in an absolute model co-ordinate system which cannot be changed. The List Verify command will always display both the current CPL co-ordinates and the model co-ordinates of a selected entity.
Each CPL can display a grid with a user-specified spacing. The grid is a two dimensional array of uniformly spaced points that act as a visual and locating aid to model construction. The grid displays on the X-Y plane of the CPL originating at the CPL co-ordinates X=0, Y=0, Z=0.
Cpl Select
The Cpl Select command allows the selection of a CPL for current model construction. When selected, the Select CPL dialog box is enabled listing all standard and user-created CPLs for the current model. The standard CPLs are Top, Bottom, Front, Back, Left, Right and Isometric. A user-defined CPL is created with the CPL New command.
The CPL selected is immediately activated, with the parameters determined during previous use (i.e. subject to any user manipulations). Only one CPL is selected at any one time, irrespective of the number of views currently displayed.
Cpl Reset
The Cpl Reset command allows the previously determined Cpl Set parameters of the current CPL to be restored. A CPL can undergo various user manipulations (e.g. translations, rotations and view alignment) with the Cpl Change command. If these manipulations are unsuitable, or no longer required, the Cpl Reset command will restore the CPL to the last CPL parameters set when the Cpl Set command was last performed.
Cpl Set
The Cpl Set command allows the current CPL location, orientation and grid parameters to be saved for the current CPL. These saved CPL parameters will be restored whenever the Cpl Reset command is performed for that selected CPL. These parameters are filed with the model.
Cpl Reset-Std
The Cpl Reset-Std command allows the parameters of the current CPL to be reset with those of a standard CPL. When selected, the Std Cpl (standard CPL) sub-menu is enabled listing only the standard
CPLs for the current model. The standard CPLs are Top, Bottom, Front, Back, Left, Right and Isometric.
A CPL can undergo various user manipulations (e.g. translations, rotations and view alignment) with the Cpl Change command. If these manipulations are unsuitable, or no longer required, the Cpl Reset-Std command will restore the CPL to the standard CPL parameters of the selected standard CPL.
Cpl Change
The Cpl Change command enables the Cpl Change sub-menu which allows the current CPL to be changed. The CPL can be changed by translation, location of a new origin, rotation, redefinition of co-ordinate point locations and alignment to a selected view.
Translate
Allows the current CPL to be relocated. Two point locations are selected to define the distance and direction of the translation.
Origin
Allows the current CPL origin to be relocated. A single point location is selected which defines the new CPL origin. The orientation of the CPL is unchanged.
Rotate
Allows the current CPL to be rotated by a specified angle and about a defined axis. Two point locations are selected to define the start and end of the axis of rotation respectively (and subsequently the direction of the axis). The angle of rotation is then specified. The direction of rotation is determined using the ‘right-hand rule’. With the right hand half closed and the thumb extended at right angles, the thumb points in the direction of the axis and the curled fingers indicate the positive direction of rotation.
3-Points
Allows the current CPL to be redefined in respect to both location and orientation by selecting three point locations. The first point location selected defines the new location of the CPL origin. The second point location selected defines the positive direction of the X-axis and the orientation of the CPL relative to the origin. The third point location defines the positive direction of the Y-axis of the CPL relative to the origin.
View
Allows the current CPL to be aligned to the current view definition.
Cpl Show
The Cpl Show command allows the symbol representing the current CPL to be visually restored to the graphics display area. The selected CPL parameters remain unaffected.
Cpl Hide
The Cpl Hide command allows the symbol representing the current CPL to be visually removed from the graphics display area. However, the selected CPL parameters remain active.
Cpl Set-Grid
(From Right Menu Only)
The Cpl Set-Grid command enables the CPL Set-Grid Defaults dialog box which allows the grid parameters for the current CPL to be determined.
X Grid spacing Allows the X grid value to be defined.
Y Grid spacing Allows the Y grid value to be defined.
X Reference spacing Allows the X reference spacing to be defined.
Y Reference spacing Allows the Y reference spacing to be defined.
The grid is a two dimensional array of uniformly spaced points that act as a visual and locating aid to model construction. The grid displays on the X-Y plane of the CPL and originates at the CPL co-ordinates X=0, Y=0, Z=0. When enabled with the Cpl Grid-On command, the grid points are displayed. The parameters that are specified are the X and Y grid spacings, in model units, and the X and Y reference spacings.
The reference spacings are a factor indicating the number of grid spacings between the reference points of the grid. The X and Y values for each of the two parameters need not be equal. The grid spacings are displayed by dots while the reference spacings are displayed as small crosses.
Cpl Rad-Grid
(From Right Menu Only)
The Cpl Rad-Grid command is used to set the radial grid. The grid displays on the X-Y plane of the CPL and originates at the CPL co-ordinates X=0, Y=0, Z=0. When Cpl Grid-On command is selected, the grid points will be displayed as dots and the reference points as small crosses. All the points are on a number of radial axes. The number of axes is specified by the parameter Number of Sectors.
The distance between two adjacent grid points on the same axis is specified by the Radial Grid Spacing parameter. Reference points are special grid points appearing on reference axes between a given number of radial grid points. The reference axes are specified by the Angular Reference Spacing parameter. For example, if this parameter is set to three (3), then every third axis is a reference axis. The first reference axis is the CPL X-axis. The axes are counted anti-clockwise.
The number of grid points between two reference points on the same axis is specified by the Radial Reference Spacing parameter. For example, if this parameter is set to five (5), then every fifth grid point on a reference axis is a reference point. The first reference point is the CPL origin. When Cpl Snap-On is selected, all location selections will snap to the nearest grid points.
The grid information is filed with the model rather than stored in the values.def file when the File Defaults Write command is executed. When Mapping Tool is available and Mapping Grid is set to On, then the radial grid will not be displayed even if it is currently set.
When the Cpl command is selected, the CPL Rad-Grid Defaults dialog is displayed.
Radial grid spacing Defines the radial grid spacing and is set in model units along each radial axis.
Number of sectors Allows the number of sectors of the grid to be defined.
Radial reference spacing Allows the reference radial spacing of the grid to be defined.
Angular reference spacing Allows the reference angle spacing of the grid to be defined.
The system will ignore zero and negative numbers and use the original (default) value displayed in the dialog box. If a real number is provided where an integer is required, then it will be converted to the nearest integer.
The number of sectors should be greater than the angular reference spacing and preferably, a multiple of the angular reference spacing so that the reference points appear evenly. If the number of sectors is less than the angular reference spacing, then there will only be on reference axis (the CPL axis). Only one kind of grid (radial or X-Y) can be activated at a time. Selecting Radial Grid will automatically turn off the X-Y grid and vice versa.
CPL Grid-On
The Cpl Grid-On command allows the grid specified for the current CPL to be enabled and displayed.
The grid is a two dimensional array of uniformly spaced points that act as a visual and locating aid to model construction. The grid displays on the X-Y plane of the CPL, originating at the CPL co-ordinates X=0, Y=0, Z=0. If the current zoom scale is too large, in relation to the specified grid spacing, the grid will not be displayed but will be enabled.
Cpl Grid-Off
The Cpl Grid-Off command allows the grid specified for the current CPL to be disabled and removed from the screen.
Cpl Snap-On
The Cpl Snap-On command allows the snapping of points to the closest grid point to be activated. With a grid activated, all location selections will snap to the nearest grid point.
Cpl Snap-Off
The Cpl Snap-Off command allows the snapping of points to the closest grid point to be deactivated. All location selections will be true locations and will not snap to the active grid.
CAD Edit > Move/Stretch/Copy/Delete + More
Group Move
The Group Move command allows the movement of a group of entities by a selected distance and direction. The group of entities is selected, followed by the selection of a point location that defines the initial location for the move.
Another point location is then selected which defines the distance and direction of the movement in relation to the initial location. Any number of point locations can then be continually selected, with each defining the distance and direction of the move in relation to the initial location, until the final location is decided upon.
Once the final location is selected, the Abort button concluded the move and the selected group of entities will be moved the defined distance from their original location in the defined direction.
1.Associated entities (i.e. associated points, control points of curves and patches, surface boundary entities) will not be moved but a copy of these entities will be generated at the defined distance from the original in the defined direction.
2. If the appropriate option for the Defaults Switches, Drag Type command is active, the selected group of entities will appear dynamically with all cursor movements. This enables the final position to be visualised prior to its selection.
Group Rotate
The Group Rotate command allows the rotation or the generation of rotated copies of a group of entities about a selected axis and through a specified angle. When selected, the Group Rotate Defaults dialog box is displayed is enabled allowing the copies of the selected entities, generated by the rotation, to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the active default settings for the model or by the entities from which they are copied.
Colour/Layer/Style/Weight Refer Group Project command for more information on these options.
Text Allows the text entities that are selected to be manipulated with either the text orientation remaining constant or text orientation changed or conformed to the transformation that has been applied. This is a choice between Same and Transform. If Transform is selected the text entity will be manipulated.
If Same is selected, only the text origin position will be manipulated, the text orientation will remain the same.
Number of Copies Allows the number of copies (and subsequently the number of angle increments) of the selected group of entities during the rotation to be specified and may range from 0 (i.e. rotation only) to 10000.
Rotation Angle Allows the angle of rotation to be specified. The group of entities is then selected, followed by the selection of two point locations that define the start and end of the axis of rotation respectively. The direction of rotation around the defined axis is determined using the ‘right-hand’ rule. With the right hand half closed and the thumb extended at right angles, the thumb points in the direction of the axis and the curled fingers indicate the positive direction of rotation.
If the specified number of copies is greater than 0, the selected group of entities will remain in their original location and the specified number of copies of them will be generated at the specified angle increments rotated from the original location around the defined axis. If the specified number of copies is 0, there will only be a rotation of that group of entities.
Group Rotate-2d
The Group Rotate-2d command allows the rotation or the generation of rotated copies of a group of entities about a given point and through a specified angle. The axis used is parallel to the CPL Z-axis.
When selected, the Group Rotate-2d Defaults dialog box is displayed allowing the copies of the selected entities generated by the rotation to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the active default settings for the model or by the entities from which they are copied.
Colour/Layer/Style/Weight Refer Group Project command for more information on these options.
Text Allows the text entities that are selected, to be manipulated with either the text orientation remaining constant or text orientation changed or conformed to the transformation that has been applied.
This is a choice between Same and Transform. If Transform is selected, the text entity will be manipulated. If Same is selected, only the text origin position will be manipulated, the text orientation will remain the same.
Number of Copies Allows the number of copies (and subsequently the number of angle increments) of the selected group of entities during the rotation to be specified and may range from 0 (i.e. rotation only) to 10000.
Rotation Angle Allows the angle of rotation to be specified. The group of entities is then selected, followed by the selection of the point entity that defines the point of rotation. The entities are rotated anti-clockwise with respect to the current CPL. If the specified number of copies is greater than 0, the selected group of entities will remain in their original location and the specified number of copies of them will be generated at the specified angle increments rotated from the original location around the defined point.
If the specified number of copies is 0, there will only be a rotation of that group of entities.
Group Dyn-Rot
The Group Dyn-Rot command allows combined rotation about a point and translation of selected entities.
The rotation of the entities may be controlled by the use of the function keys. When selected, the Dynamic Rotate Defaults dialog box is displayed allowing the incremental rotation angles to be specified in each of the X, Y and Z axes.
X Rotation Angle
Y Rotation Angle
Z Rotation Angle
Allow the angle factors to be applied relative to the X, Y, Z axes of the CPL specified.
Text Allows the text entities that are selected to be manipulated with either the text orientation remaining constant or text orientation changed or conformed to the transformation that has been applied.
This is a choice between Same and Transform. If Transform is selected, the text entity will be manipulated.
If Same is selected, only the text origin position will be manipulated, the text orientation will remain the same.
Number of Copies Allows the number of copies (and subsequently the number of scale increments) of the selected group of entities during the rotation to be specified and may range from 0 (i.e. scaling of the entities only) to 10000.
Locate the entities to rotate and then the origin of the rotation. At this point a drag figure of the entities will appear.
The function keys can be used to rotate the entities at this point.
F1 - Rotates forward about the X axis F2 - Rotates backward about the X axis F3 - Rotates forward about the Y axis F4 - Rotates backward about the Y axis F5 - Rotates forward about the Z axis F6 - Rotates backward about the Z axis F7 - Doubles the incremental rotation angles F8 - Halves the incremental rotation angles
Once the correct rotation has been established the entity’s new position can be located.
Group Mirror
The Group Mirror command allows the mirroring or the generation of mirrored copies of a group of entities about a defined plane. When selected, the Group Mirror Defaults dialog box is enabled
allowing the copies of the selected entities, generated by the mirroring, to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the default settings for the model or by the entities from which they are copied.
Colour/Layer/Style/Weight Refer Group Project command for more information on these options.
Text Allows the text entities that are selected to be manipulated with either the text orientation remaining constant or text orientation changed or conformed to the transformation that has been applied.
This is a choice between Same and Transform. If Transform is selected, the text entity will be manipulated. If Same is selected, only the text origin position will be manipulated, the text orientation will remain the same.
Number of Copies Allows the number of copies of the selected group of entities during the mirroring to be specified. If 0 is selected, the entities will be mirrored only. If 1 is selected, the entities will be mirrored and copied.
Plane Type Upon verification of the entities selected, the Plane Type sub-menu is then enabled
allowing the selection of the type of mirror plane about which the selected entities are to be mirrored.
The mirror plane is defined by a selected line and the current CPL:
•two selected point locations and the current CPL
•three selected point locations
•a selected plane
•the X and Y axes of the current CPL
•the Y and Z axes of the current CPL
•the X and Z axes of the current CPL.
Line Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command to be defined by a line.
The required line is selected, resulting in the defined plane being the plane that passes through the two endpoints of the line and is normal, in the Z-axis, to the current CPL.
The selected Group commands are then completed.
2-Points Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command, to be defined by two point locations. Two point locations are selected or specified, resulting in the defined plane being the plane that passes through both selected point locations and is normal, in the Z-axis, to the current CPL. The selected Group commands are then completed.
3-Points Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command, to be defined by three point locations. Three point locations are selected or specified, resulting in the defined plane being the plane that passes through all three selected point locations.
The selected Group commands are then completed.
Plane Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command, to be defined by a plane.
The required plane is selected, thereby defining the plane to be used. The selected Group commands is then completed.
CPL-XY Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command, to be defined by the X and Y axes of the current CPL. A depth in the Z direction is specified, resulting in the defined plane being the plane created by the X and Y axes (Z plane) at the specified Z depth. The selected Group commands are then completed.
CPL-YZ Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command, to be defined by the Y and Z axes of the current CPL. A depth in the X direction is specified, resulting in the defined plane being the plane created by the Y and Z axes (X plane) at the specified X depth. The selected Group commands are then completed.
CPL-XZ Allows the plane, applicable to the selected Group command, to be defined by the X and Z axes of the current CPL. A depth in the Y direction is specified, resulting in the defined plane being the plane created by the X and Z axes (Y plane) at the specified Y depth. The selected Group commands are then completed.
Group Project
The Group Project command allows the linear projection of a group of entities, by a selected distance and direction. The entities are projected generating either surfaces (i.e. ruled surfaces and/or planes) or a wire-frame only. When selected, the Group Project Defaults dialog box is displayed allowing the entities, generated by the projection, to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the active default settings for the model or by the entities from which they are generated.
Colour Allows the entities that are generated by the Group commands to have their colour defined by the current default colour for the model or by the entity that causes its generation. Also allows the entities altered by the Group Stretch command to have their colour re-assigned with the current default colour for the model.
This is a choice between Same and Active.
If Same is selected, the colour assigned to a generated entity will be the same as that assigned to the entity from which it was generated. The colour assigned to an altered entity will be the same as that assigned before alteration.
If Active is selected, the colour assigned to a generated entity will be the current default colour for the model. The colour assigned to an altered entity will be re-assigned with the current default colour for the model.
Layer Allows the entities that are generated by the Group commands to have their layer defined by the current default layer for the model or by the entity that causes its generation.
It also allows the entities altered by the Group Stretch command to have their layer re-assigned with the current default layer for the model. This is a choices between Same and Active.
If Same is selected, the layer assigned to a generated entity will be the same as that assigned to the entity it was generated from. The layer assigned to an altered entity will be the same as that assigned before alteration.
If Active is selected, the layer assigned to a generated entity will be the current default layer for the model. The layer assigned to an altered entity will be re-assigned with the current default layer for the model.
Style Allows the entities that are generated by the Group commands to have their style defined by the current default style for the model or by the entity that causes its generation. Also allows the entities altered by the Group Stretch command to have their style re-assigned with the current default style for the model. This is a choice between Same and Active.
If Same is selected, the style assigned to a generated entity will be the same as that assigned to the entity from which it was generated. The style assigned to an altered entity will be the same as that assigned before alteration.
If Active is selected, the style assigned to a generated entity will be the current default style for the model. The style assigned to an altered entity will be re-assigned with the current default style for the model.
Weight Allows the entities that are generated by the Group commands to have their weight defined by the current default weight for the model or by the entity that causes its generation. Also allows the entities altered by the Group Stretch command to have their weight re-assigned with the current default weight for the model.
This is a choice between Same and Active.
If Same Is selected, the weight assigned to a generated entity will be the same as that assigned to the entity it was generated from. The weight assigned to an altered entity will be the same as that assigned before alteration.
If Active is selected, the weight assigned to a generated entity will be the current default weight for the model. The weight assigned to an altered entity will be re-assigned with the current default weight for the model.
Generate Surfaces Allows the generation of either surfaces or a wire-frame to be specified.
This is a choice between Yes and No.
If Yes is selected then lines will be placed from the ends of the projected entities and original entities and a surface will be placed between the projected entities and original entities.
If No is selected then only lines will be placed between the ends of the projected entities and original entities.
Number of Copies Allows the number of incremental projection copies of the entities to be specified. This value ranges from 1 to 1000.
Two point locations are then selected to define the distance and direction of the projection (i.e. initial point and final point). This results in the selected entities being linearly projected, through 3D space, from their original position with the specified number of copies being located at incremental distances in the direction of the projection. The appropriate entities are generated between the original and the projected entities as specified in the Generate Surfaces dialog box.
The subsequent selection of an isometric or user defined view may be required to see the Group Project result, if generated from a top view for example.
Group Scale
The Group Scale command allows the scaling or the generation of scaled copies of entities, in relation to the X, Y and
Z axes of the current CPL, about a selected point location. When selected, the Group Scale Defaults dialog box is
displayed allowing the entities, generated by the scaling, to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the active default settings for the model or by the entities from which they were scaled.
Number of Copies Allows the number of copies (and subsequently the number of scale increments) of the selected group of entities during the scaling to be specified and may range from 0 (i.e. scaling of the
entities only) to 10000.
X scale
Y scale
Z scale
Allow the scale factors to be applied relative to the X, Y, Z axes of the CPL specified. A scale factor greater than 1 will expand the entities relative to that axis (i.e. a scale factor of 2 is equivalent to a scale ratio of 2:1) whereas a scale factor greater than 0 but less than 1 will compress the entities relative to that axis (i.e. a scale factor of 0.5 is equivalent to a scale ratio of 1:2). A negative scale factor will also mirror the entities about the selected scale point location.
This is followed by the selection of the entities to be scales, followed by a point location about which the group of entities is to be scaled.
If the specified number of copies is greater than 0, the selected group of entities will remain unaffected in their original location and the specified number of copies of them will be generated at the defined scale increments, scaled about the selected scale point location.
For example, if 3 copies are specified with X and Y scale factors of 2 and a Z scale factor of 1, the first scaled copy of the group of entities will be twice the size of the originals, about the selected scale point location, in relation to the X and Y axis of the current CPL. The second scaled copy will be four times and the third scaled copy will be eight times the size of the originals in relation to the X and Y axis of the current CPL. If the specified number of copies is 0, there will only be a scaling of that group of entities about the selected scale point location.
Group Offset
The Group Offset command allows the generation of offset copies of a group of adjoining co-planar lines, circles and/or arcs. They are offset from the original group of entities by a specified incremental projection and defined offset distance. This command effectively performs an enlargement or reduction of the polygon shape described by the group of entities.
When selected, the Group Offset Defaults dialog box is displayed allowing the entities, generated by the offset, to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the active default settings for the model or by the entities from which they were offset.
Offset Type Allows the specification of the offset command and is a choice between Square and Round.
If Square is selected then the corners of the offset entities will be trimmed to a square corner. If Round is selected then the corners of the offset entities will have an arc inserted with the radius being equal to the offset distance.
Projection Distance The incremental projection distance is then specified and is calculated normal to the X-Y plane defined by the selected group of entities, and in the direction determined by the Z-axis of the current CPL. This defines the plane to which the generated copy will be projected to, relative to the plane defined by the selected group of entities.
The adjoining lines, circles and/or arcs are consecutively selected around the perimeter of the polygonal shape they
describe. If these entities form a closed loop (i.e. the first and last entities selected adjoin as well), no more entities can be selected. If they do not form a closed loop, further entity selection is aborted with the Abort button and verification of the selected entities is requested.
The first entity selected is then highlighted as a reference for the offset distance. A point location is then selected to define the offset distance relative to the highlighted entity in the X-Y plane defined by the selected group of entities.
If only one entity has been selected, the offset distance is relative to the current CPL.
A copy of the selected group of entities is then generated which offsets the polygon shape of the selected group of entities and lies on the defined projection plane. As further point locations are selected, defining another offset
distance relative to the highlighted entity, the projection distance is incremented for each successively generated copy.
1. A loop is considered closed when the endpoints of the adjoining selected entities are within the distance
value specified by the Trace-Tol option of the Defaults Tolerance command.
2. Lines, circles and arcs are 3D model entities. Although they may appear co-planar in the current view, they may not be co-planar in 3D space.
Group Offset= The Group Offset= command allows the generation of offset copies of a group of adjoining co-planar lines, circles and/or arcs. They are offset from the original group of entities by specified incremental projection and offset distances. This command performs an enlargement or reduction of the polygonal shape described by the group of entities. When selected, the Group Offset= Defaults dialog box is displayed allowing the entities, generated by the offset, to have their colour, layer, style and weight defined by the default settings for the model or by the entities from which they were offset.
Offset Type Allows the specification of the Offset command and is a choice between Square and Round.
If Square is selected then the corners of the offset entities will be trimmed to a square corner. If Round is selected then the corners of the offset entities will have an arc inserted with the radius being equal to the offset distance.
Offset Distance The incremental offset distance is then specified and is calculated relative to the highlighted entity in the X-Y plane defined by the entities themselves.
If only one entity has been selected, the incremental offset distance is relative to the current CPL. Projection Distance The incremental projection distance is then specified and is calculated at right angles to the X-Y plane defined by the selected entities, and in the direction determined by the Z-axis of the current CPL. This defines the plane to which the generated entities will be projected to, relative to the plane defined by the entities themselves.
The adjoining lines, circles and/or arcs are consecutively selected around the perimeter of the polygonal shape they
describe. If these entities form a closed loop (i.e. the first and last entities selected adjoin as well), no more entities can be selected.
If they do not form a closed loop, further entity selection is aborted with the abort button and verification of the selected entities is requested. The first entity selected is then highlighted as a reference for the projection and offset distances. A point location is then selected to define the direction in which to apply the incremental offset distance (offset direction), relative to the highlighted entity. A copy of the selected group of entities is then generated which
offsets the polygon shape of the selected group of entities and lies on the defined projection plane.
As further point locations are selected, relative to the highlighted entity, the offset and projection distances are
incremented for each successively generated copy.
1. A loop is considered closed when the endpoints of the adjoining selected entities are within the distance
value specified by the Trace-Tol option of the Defaults Tolerance command.
2. Lines, circles and arcs are 3D model entities. Although they may appear co-planar in the current
view, they may not be co-planar in 3D space.
CAD Edit > Trim/Divide
Line Trim
Allows the trimming of the length of any number of lines to their points of intersection with a reference line. The reference line is selected, followed by the lines to be trimmed. When all of the lines to be trimmed are selected, Abort (right mouse button) and confirm. Finally, a location is selected near the end of the lines to be trimmed.
Each selected line has its length altered by its selected endpoint being moved to the point of intersection with the reference line.
1. Lines are regarded as having infinite endpoint extensions to determine the point of intersection.
2. Lines are 3D model entities. Although they may visually appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
Circle Allows the trimming of the length of any number of lines to their points of intersection with a reference circle. The reference circle is selected, followed by the lines to be trimmed. When all of the trim lines are selected, Abort and confirm. Select a trim location near the end of the lines to trim.
Each selected line has its length altered by its endpoint being moved to the point of intersection with the reference circle.
1. Lines are regarded as having infinite endpoint extensions to determine the point of intersection.
2. Lines and circles are 3D model entities. Although they may visually appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
3. An arc may be selected as a reference for trimming a line with this command, but it will be regarded as a circle. Therefore, the line will be trimmed to wherever the imaginary circle intersects.
Curve Allows the trimming of the length of any number of lines to their points of intersection with a reference curve. The reference curve is selected, followed by the lines to be trimmed. When all of the lines to be trimmed are selected, Abort (right mouse button) and confirm. Finally, a location is selected near the end of the lines to be trimmed.
Each selected line has its length altered by its selected endpoints being moved to the point of intersection with the reference curve.
1. Lines are regarded as having infinite endpoint extensions to determine the point of intersection.
2. Lines and circles are 3D model entities. Although they may visually appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
Length Allows the trimming of the length of any number of lines to a specified length. The length is specified, followed by the selection of the lines to be trimmed. When all of the lines to be trimmed are selected,
Abort (right mouse button) and confirm. Finally, a location is selected near the end of the lines to be trimmed. Each selected line has its length altered to the length specified by moving its selected endpoint.
Lines are regarded as having infinite endpoint extensions, therefore the length of a line may be increased or decreased.
Incr-Len Allows the trimming of the length of any number of lines by a specified incremental length.
The incremental length is specified, followed by the selection of the lines to be trimmed. When all of the lines to be trimmed are selected, Abort (right mouse button) and confirm. Finally, a location is selected near the end of the lines to be trimmed.
Each selected line has its length altered by its selected endpoint being moved the specified incremental length. A positive incremental length increases the length and a negative incremental length decreases the length.
Line Divide
The Line Divide command enables the Line Divide sub-menu which allows the division of a line into several shorter lines by specifying:
• a number
• relative to a point location
• relative to its point of intersection with a line, circle or curve
• an incremental length.
Number Allows the division of a line into a specified number of equal length lines. The number of segments is specified followed by the selection of the line to be divided. The selected line is then equally divided into the specified number of lines.
Point-Int Allows the division of a line relative to any number of reference point locations.
The line to be divided is selected followed by the reference point location. The reference point location projects a division point through 3D space onto the selected line. The division point of a selected line is the closest point that can be projected onto that line, through 3D space, from the reference point location. (It can be represented as the intersection by the perpendicular projected to that line through 3D space from the reference point location.)
The selected line is then divided into two lines at the division point.
Line-Int Allows the division of a line at its point of intersection with a reference line. The line to be divided is selected followed by the reference line. This results in the selected line being divided at its point of intersection with the reference line into two lines.
This command regards the reference line as having infinite endpoint extensions when determining the division point of the line being divided. Lines are 3D model entities. Although they may visually appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
Cir-Int Allows the division of a line at its point of intersection with a reference circle. The line to be divided is selected first, followed by the reference circle near the intersection point. This results in the line being divided at its point of intersection with the reference circle into two lines.
Lines and circles are 3D model entities. Although they may appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space. An arc may be selected as a reference for dividing a line with this command, but it will be regarded as a circle. Therefore, the line will be divided wherever the imaginary reference circle intersects it.
Length Allows the division of a line at a specified length from one of its endpoints. The length is specified followed by the selection of the line to be divided near one of its endpoints. This results in the selected line being divided into two lines at the specified length measured from the selected endpoint.
Circle Divide
The Circle Divide command enables the Circle Divide sub-menu which allows a circle to be divided into several arcs by specifying:
• a number • relative to a point location
• relative to its point of intersection with a line, circle or curve
• or an incremental angle.
Number Allows the division of a circle into a specified number of equal angled arcs. The number is specified followed by the selection of the circle to be divided. The selected circle is then equally divided into the specified number of arcs beginning at the start point of the circle.
Point-Int Allows the division of a circle into two arcs by specifying relative to a reference point location. The circle to be divided is selected followed by the selection of the reference point location. This reference point location projects a division point through 3D space onto the selected circle. This division point is the
closest point that can be projected onto that circle through 3D space from the reference point location. (It can be represented as an intersection by the shortest perpendicular projected to that circle through 3D space from the reference point location.)
The two resultant arcs of the divided circle have angles subtending from the start/endpoint of the original circle to the division point.
Line-Int Allows the division of a circle into two arcs by specifying relative to its point of intersection with a reference line. The circle to be divided is selected followed by the selection of the reference line near the required point of intersection. This results in the circle selected for division having a division point at its point of intersection with the reference line.
The two resultant arcs of the divided circle have angles subtending from the start/endpoint of the original circle to the division point.
1. This command regards the reference line as having infinite endpoint extensions when determining the division point of the circle.
2. Lines and circles are 3D model entities. Although they may appear to intersect in the current view they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
Cir-Int Allows the division of a circle into two arcs by specifying relative to its point of intersection with a reference circle. The circle to be divided is selected near the required point of intersection followed by the selection of the reference circle. This results in the circle selected for division having a division point at its point of intersection with the reference circle. The two resultant arcs of the divided circle have angles subtending from the start/endpoint of the original circle to the division point.
1. Circles are 3D model entities. Although they may appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
2.An arc may be selected as a reference for dividing circles with this command but it will be regarded as a circle. Therefore, the circles will be divided wherever the imaginary reference circle intersects them.
Incr-Angle Allows the division of any number of circles by specifying an incremental angle. The incremental angle and the number of divisions are specified, followed by the selection of the circles to be divided. The start/endpoints of these circles from which the incremental angles are measured are then specified by selecting a point location.
This results in each selected circle having division points defined by the specified number of incremental angles calculated from its start/endpoint in a direction around the circumference dependent upon the direction of that circle. The resultant arcs of each divided circle have endpoints corresponding to the division points of that circle.
The direction of a circle is dependent upon how it was originally inserted. This can be changed using the
Group Change-Dir command.
Arc Divide
The Arc Divide command enables the Arc Div sub-menu which allows an arc to be divided into several arcs by specifying:
• a number
• relative to a point location
• relative to its point of intersection with a line, circle or curve
• an incremental angle.
Number Allows the division of an arc into a specified number of equal angled arcs. The number is specified followed by the selection of the arc to be divided. The selected arc is divided into the specified number of arcs.
Point-Int Allows the division of an arc, into two arcs, by specifying relative to a reference point location. The arc to be divided is selected, then the reference point location. This reference point location projects a division point, through 3D space, onto the selected arc. This division point is the closest point that can be projected onto that arc, through 3D space, from the reference point location. (It can be represented as an intersection by the shortest perpendicular projected to that arc, through 3D space, from the reference point location.)
Line-Int Allows the division of an arc, into two arcs by specifying relative to its point of intersection with an existing line. The arc to be divided is selected near the required point of intersection followed by the selection of the reference line. This point of intersection is the division point of the arc resulting in the arc being divided into two arcs at its division point.
1. This command regards the reference line as having infinite endpoint extensions when determining the division point of the arc.
2. Lines and arcs are 3D model entities. Although they may appear to intersect in the current view, they may not actually intersect in 3D space.
CAD Edit > Change
Point Change
The Point Change command allows the alteration of existing point options.
Point Defaults
The Point Defaults command enables the Point Defaults dialog box which allows the default options of subsequently inserted points to be set.
Colour Allows the colour to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This enables the Defaults Colour dialog box.
Layer Allows the layer to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This enables the Defaults Layer dialog box.
Style Allows the style to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This has no visual effect on the point graphics but may be used by application programs which extract this data for processing. This enables the Defaults Style dialog box.
Weight Allows the weight to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This has no visual effect on the point graphics but may be used by application programs which extract this data for processing. This enables the Defaults Weight dialog box.
Line Change
The Line Change command enables the Line Change dialog box which allows the alteration of existing line options.
Line Defaults
The Line Defaults enables the Line Defaults dialog box which allows subsequently inserted line entity defaults to be set.
Colour Allows the colour to be set for subsequent insertion of line entities. This enables the Defaults Colour dialog box.
Layer Allows the layer to be set for subsequent insertion of line entities. This enables the Defaults Layer dialog box.
Style Allows the style to be set for subsequent insertion of line entities. This enables the Defaults Style dialog box.
Weight Allows the weight to be set for subsequent insertion of line entities. This enables the Defaults Weight dialog box.
Start terminator type Specifies the default terminator type for the start terminator of subsequently inserted lines. This field has the following options: Arrow; S-Arrow (solid arrow); O-Arrow (open arrow); Dot; S-Dot (solid dot); E-Dot (extended dot); E-S-Dot (extended solid dot); Slash; and None. Arrow, solid arrow and open arrow terminators have a length and height defined by start terminator length and start terminator height respectively.
Dot and solid dot terminators have a radius defined by start terminator length with its origin at the start termination of the line. Extended dot and extended solid dot terminators have a radius, defined by start terminator length with its origin extended from the start termination of the line a distance equal to start terminator length. The slash has a character width defined by start terminator length (character width = 2 x start terminator length). No terminator is specified if the None option is selected.
Start terminator length Specifies the default length of the start terminator. Start terminator length is assigned a numeric value which represents a model unit measurement, co-linear with the line. Arrow, solid arrow and open arrow terminators have a length defined by the start terminator length specified.
Dot and solid dot terminators have a radius, defined by the start terminator length specified, with its origin at the start termination of the line. Extended dot and extended solid dot terminators have a radius defined by the start terminator length specified with its origin extended from the start termination of the line a distance equal to the start terminator length specified. The slash has a character width defined by the start terminator length specified (character width = 2 x start terminator length).
Start terminator height Specifies the default height of the start terminator of subsequently inserted lines.
The start terminator height is assigned a numeric value which represents a model unit measurement, normal to the line. Arrow, solid arrow and open arrow terminators have a height defined by the start terminator length specified.
Start terminator size Specifies the default status of the start terminator size option of the start terminator of subsequently inserted lines. The start terminator size option refers to the relationship between the scale of the start terminator and the plot scale of the view. This is a choice between Original and Plot-Scale.
If Original is selected, the scale of the start terminator will be proportional to the model scale, for all plot scales. For example, if a start terminator has a start terminator length of 10 model units, it will be plotted with a length of (10 model units x plot scale). Visually, there will be no change to the scale of the start terminator, in relation to the model scale, even if the plot scale of the view is changed from 1:1.
If Plot Scale is selected, the scale of the start terminator will remain constant for all plot scale values. For example, if a start terminator has a start terminator length of 10 model units, it will be plotted with a length of 10 model units, irrespective of the plot scale of the view. Visually, there will be a change to the scale of the start terminator, in relation to the model scale, only if the plot scale of the view is changed from 1:1.
Start terminator trim Specifies whether the line is trimmed back from its start termination by a distance defined by the start terminator length. This is a choice between Yes (the line is trimmed) and No (the line is not trimmed).
Start terminator weight Allows the default selection of the Start Terminator Weight option for line entities subsequently inserted. The Start Terminator Weight defines the weight of the start terminator which can be the weight defined in the Defaults Weight command or the weight defined under the Alt Start Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu. This is a choice between Line and Alternate.
If Line is selected, the start terminator of subsequently inserted lines will be displayed at the weight defined in the Defaults Weight command.
If Alternate is selected, the start terminator of subsequently inserted lines will be displayed at the Weight defined under the Alt Start Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu.
Alt Start terminator weight Specifies the default value of the Start Terminator Weight option for lines subsequently inserted when the Start Terminator Weight is set to Alternate. The Alt Start Terminator Weight option defines the weight of the start terminator of subsequently inserted line entities when the Start Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu is set to Alternate. When selected, the Weight modifier menu is enabled from which the weight is selected.
This option is only effective if the Start Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu is set to Alternate.
End terminator type Specifies the default terminator type for the end terminator of subsequently inserted lines. This filed has the following options: Arrow; S-Arrow (solid arrow); O-Arrow (open arrow); Dot; S-Dot (solid dot); E-Dot (extended dot); E-S-Dot (extended solid dot); Slash; and None. Arrow, solid arrow and open arrow terminators have a length and height defined by End-length and End-height respectively.
Dot and solid dot terminators have a radius, defined by Endlength, with its origin at the end termination of the line. Extended dot and extended solid dot terminators have a radius defined by End-length with its origin extended from the end termination of the line a distance equal to End-length.
The slash has a character width defined by End-length (character width = 2 x End-length). No terminator is specified if the ‘None’ option is selected.
Line End terminator length Specifies the default length of the end terminator of subsequently inserted lines.
Specifies the default length option of the end terminator. End-length is assigned a numeric value which represents a model unit measurement, co-linear with the line. Arrow, solid arrow and open arrow terminators have a length defined by the End-length specified. Dot and solid dot terminators have a radius defined by the end-length specified with its origin at the end termination of the line.
Extended dot and extended solid dot terminators have a radius defined by the end-length specified with its origin extended from the end termination of the line a distance equal to the End-length specified.
The slash has a character width defined by the end-length specified (character width = 2 x End-length).
End terminator height Specifies the default height of the end terminator of subsequently inserted lines.
End-height is assigned a numeric value which represents a model unit measurement, normal to the line. Arrow, solid arrow and open arrow terminators have a height defined by the end-height specified.
End terminator size Specifies the default status of the End-size option of the end terminator of subsequently inserted lines. The end-size option refers to the relationship between the scale of the end terminator and the plot scale of the view. This is a choice between Original and Plot-Scale.
If Original is selected, the scale of the end terminator will be proportional to the model scale, for all plot scales. For example, if an end terminator has an end-length of 10 model units, it will be plotted with a length of (10 model units x plot scale). Visually, there will be no change to the scale of the end terminator, in relation to the model scale, even if the plot scale of the view is changed from 1:1.
If Plot Scale is selected, the scale of the end terminator will remain constant for all plot scales. For example, if an end terminator has an End-length of 10 model units, it will be plotted with a length of 10 model units, irrespective of the plot scale of the view. Visually, there will be a change to the scale of the end terminator, in relation to the model scale, only if the plot scale of the view is changed from 1:1.
End terminator weight Allows the default selection of the End Terminator Weight option for line entities subsequently inserted. The End Terminator Weight defines the weight of the end terminator which can be the weight defined in the defaults weight command or the weight defined under the Alt End Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu. This is a choice between Line and Alternate. If Line is selected, the end terminator of subsequently inserted lines will be displayed at the weight defined in the Defaults Weight command.
If Alternate is selected, the end terminator of subsequently inserted lines will be displayed at the weight defined under the Alt End Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu.
Alt End terminator weight Specifies the default value of the End Terminator Weight option for lines subsequently inserted when the End Terminator Weight is set to Alternate. The Alt End Terminator Weight option defines the weight of the end terminator of subsequently inserted line entities when the
End Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu is set to Alternate. When selected, the Weight modifier menu is enabled from which the weight is selected.
This option is only effective if the End Terminator Weight option of the Line Defaults menu is set to Alternate.
Haloed Specifies the display of the halo applied to an line entity and is a choice between Yes and No.
If Yes is selected, subsequently inserted lines will be displayed on screen in a specified encapsulated area of invisible space. If No is selected, subsequently inserted lines will be displayed as standard e.g. not encapsulated in an area of invisible space.
Plotting Specifies the plot visibility applied to an line entity and is a choice between Yes and No.
If Yes is selected, subsequently inserted lines will be plotted during the plot command. If No is selected, subsequently inserted lines will not be plotted during the plot command.
Circle Change
The Circle Change command enables the Circle Change Defaults dialog box which allows the alteration of existing circle options. The options that can be altered are colour, layer, style and weight.
Colour Allows the colour of a existing circle entity to be changed.
Layer Allows the layer of an existing circle entity to be changed.
Style Allows the style of an existing circle entity to be changed.
Weight Allows the weight of an existing circle entity to be changed.
Copy Allows the option settings of an existing circle to be copied into the Circle Change Defaults dialog box.
The selected option settings in the menu will apply only to the current Circle Change command. Subsequent selection of the Circle Change command will enable the menu with the default option settings.
Text Change
When selected of the Text Change command, the Font Text Change dialog box is displayed allowing the alteration of existing text and text node entity options.
Click the True Type Font button to display font parameters.
Change case Allows the case of a selected text entity to be changed. This is a choice of No-Change, Upper and Lower. If No-Change is selected the text case will not be modified. If Upper is selected the text will be changed to all upper case. If Lower is selected the text will be changed to all lower case.
Change CPL Allows the CPL of a selected text entity to be changed. This is a choice between No-Change and Cur-Cpl. If No-Change is selected, the text CPL will not be modified. If Cur-Cpl is selected, the text CPL will be changed to the currently active CPL.
This command will have no noticeable effect on text in drawing mode.
Text Defaults
When selected, the Text Defaults command, the Font Text Defaults dialog box is displayed allowing the options of subsequently inserted text and text-nodes to be determined.
Click the True Type Font button to display font parameters. The options can be changed by copying those assigned to an existing text or text-node entity. The colour, layer placement, line style and weight options are determined by the values assigned in the Defaults command.
Colour Allows the colour to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. This enables the Defaults Colour dialog box.
Layer Allows the layer to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. This enables the Defaults Layer dialog box.
Style Allows the style to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. This enables the Defaults Style dialog box.
Weight Allows the weight to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. This enables the Defaults Weight dialog box.
Font Allows the font to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. This enables the Font File dialog box which consists of all font files created using the Text Create command. Standard font files include ISO, MICRO, MIL-STD, NEWS and CENTURY. The True Type Font button displays the second page of the dialog box where the default for the true type fonts are set.
X offset Allows the default selection of an offset to a text entity with respect to the x-axis of the current CPL during text insertion. As a text entity is inserted using the Text Insert Point command, the origin of the text entity is offset from the cursor location by the value specified, in the x-direction.
Y offset Allows the default selection of an offset to a text entity with respect to the y-axis of the current CPL during text insertion. As a text entity is inserted using the Text Insert Point command, the origin of the text entity is offset from the cursor location by the value specified in the y-direction.
Height Allows the height option to be set for text entity insertion. The height defines the multiplication factor to be applied to the original height of each character of a text entity, as defined using the Text Create command (normally 1 unit).
Width Allows the width option to be set for text entity insertion. The width defines the multiplication factor applied to the original width of each character in a text entity, as defined using the Text Create command (normally proportional to a height of 1 unit).
Angle Allows the angle option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities.
The angle is defined as the angle of the width component relative to the currently active CPL and is assigned a numeric value in degrees. A value of 0 degrees is parallel to the x-axis of the currently active CPL and a positive value is calculated in an anti-clockwise direction.
Slant Allows the slant angle option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The slant angle is defined as the angle of the height component from its normal vertical position and is assigned a numeric value in the range -89 to 89 degrees. A positive value of the slant angle indicates a forward slant. A negative value of the slant angle indicates a backward slant. The slant angle is not relative to the currently active CPL.
Horizontal spacing Allows the horizontal space option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities.
The horizontal space defines the horizontal distance between each character of a text entity. It is a multiplication factor which is applied to the current width of the text entity to calculate that distance.
A value of 0 indicates that there is no horizontal distance between each character of the text entity. A value of n indicates that the horizontal distance between each character of the text entity is = (n x text entity width).
Vertical spacing Allows the vertical space option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities.
The vertical space defines the vertical distance between each line of a multiple line text entity. It is a multiplication factor which is applied to the current height of the text entity to calculate that distance (the actual vertical distance also includes the addition of the baseline distance).
A value of 0 indicates that there is only the baseline distance between each line of the text entity. (i.e. no additional vertical distance between each line). A value of n indicates that the vertical distance between each line of the text entity is = (n x text entity height) + baseline distance.
Horizontal justification Allows the horizontal justification option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The horizontal justification defines the horizontal position of the text entity relative to its selected point entity location.
The choices for this field are Left, Centre and Right. If Left is selected, the text entity will start at the selected point entity location (i.e. first character origin location). If Centre is selected, the text entity will be positioned horizontally central about the selected point entity location (i.e. half of total width of text entity). If Right is selected, the text entity will end at the selected point entity location (i.e. last character width location).
Vertical justification Allows the vertical justification option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The vertical justification defines the vertical position of the text entity relative to its selected point entity location. The choices for this field are Bottom, Centre and Top. If Bottom is selected, the text entity will sit on the selected point entity location. If Centre is selected, the text entity will be positioned vertically central about the selected point entity location. If Top is selected, the text entity will hang from the selected point entity location.
Boxed Allows the boxed option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The boxed option refers to the automatic enclosure of the selected text entity within a rectangular, oval, circular, or fixed circular border. The choices are None, Box, Oval, Circle or Fix-Circle. If None is selected, the text entity will consist of the characters only. If Box is selected, the text entity will be automatically enclosed within a rectangular box. If Oval is selected, the text entity will be automatically enclosed within an oval shape, sized to suit the text entity. If Circle is selected, the text entity will be automatically enclosed within a circle, with a diameter sized large enough for one text character only. If Fix-Circle is selected, the text entity will be automatically enclosed within a circle of a fixed diameter to suit one text character only.
For a multiple line text entity, one box, oval or circle only will be generated.
Underline Allows the underline option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The underlined option refers to the automatic placing of lines under each line of the text entity. This is a choices between No and Yes. If No is selected, the text entity will consist of the characters only. If Yes is selected, the text entity will be automatically underlined.
Overline Allows the overline option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The overlined option refers to the automatic placing of lines over each line of the text entity. This is a choice between No and Yes. If No is selected, the text entity will consist of the characters only. If Yes is selected, the text entity will be automatically overlined.
Plot size Allows the plot size option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. The plot size option refers to the relationship between the text entity scale and the view plot scale only. This is a choice between Original and Plot Scale. If Original is selected, the text scale will be proportional to the model scale for all plot scale values, e.g. if a text entity has height of 10 mm, it will be plotted at a height of (10 mm x plot scale value).
Visually, there will be no change to the text entity, even if the view plot scale factor has been changed from 1:1. The complete model displays as it originally displayed.
If Plot scale is selected, the text scale will remain constant for all plot scale values (i.e. if a text entity has height of 10 mm, it will be plotted at a height of 10 mm irrespective of the plot scale value applied to the model). Visually, there will be a change to the text entity only if the view plot scale factor has been changed from 1:1.
Drawing Allows the drawing option to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities and refers to the orientation and visual display of the text entity.
This is a choice between No and Yes. If No is selected, the text entity will orientated relative to the active CPL on which it was originally inserted. If Yes is selected, the text entity will always be parallel to the screen, irrespective of the view selected.
Fixed Circle Diameter Allows the circle diameter of the Boxed option, Fix-Circle, to be set for subsequent insertion of text entities. This option only refers to the Fix-Circle option.
Plotting Specifies the plot visibility applied to a text entity and is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, subsequently inserted text will be plotted during the plot command. If No is selected, subsequently inserted text will not be plotted during the plot command.
Copy Allows the default setting of an existing text entity to be copied into the Text Defaults dialog box. The option colour, layer, style and weight are determined by the current values assigned by the Defaults command.
Text Edit
The Text Edit command allows part of the text assigned to a selected text entity to be edited. Text Edit icon The text entity is selected first. The Change Text dialog box then displays the original text entity, which may be edited using standard text editor procedures.
Dialog boxes can be disabled via the Defaults Switches menu, in which case text is entered at the command prompt in the text display area. With this method, the part of the original text to be changed
is specified, followed by the replacement text to be inserted within the text entity. The backslash (\) procedure, detailed in Text Insert can be used during editing to add new lines to the text entity.
Text Edit-Multi
The Text Edit-Multi command allows part of the text assigned to a number of selected text entities to be edited. This option operates similar to Text Edit but allows multiple text entities to be edited at once.
The text entities are selected first. This is followed by specifying via the Text to Replace dialog box, that part of the text to be changed in the selected text entities. The replacement text is then specified via the Replacement Text dialog box and all of the text entities are then modified.
Text Move
The Text Move command allows a text entity to be moved by specifying a new origin location.
The text entity to be moved is selected, followed by the selection of a new point location for positioning the origin of the selected text entity. If the appropriate defaults drag option is active, the selected text entity will appear dynamically moving with the cursor movements. Its origin is at the crosshairs of the cursor, thereby assisting accurate locating of the new origin location. New origin locations can be continually selected and the text entity will be temporarily moved to it. The actual move is executed by aborting further selection of point locations with the abort button. The selected text entity will be moved and its new origin location will be the last point location selected.
Text Copy
The Text Copy command allows the translation of a single text entity by a selected distance and direction.
The text entity is copied. The text entity to copy is selected, and the new origin position for the text entity is then located. New text entities are continually added at the selected origin positions until the command is aborted.
Only the text entity is copied, no associated entities are copied, or stretched.
Text Delete
The Text Delete command permanently removes selected text entities from the database. A confirmation of the selected text entities is required.
Text Del-Node
The Text Del-Node command permanently removes selected text node entities from the database. A confirmation of the selected text node entities is required.
Dimension Change
The Dimension Change command enables the Dimension Change dialog box which allows the alteration of existing dimension entity options. Due to the number of options for dimension entities, the options
have been split into two dialog boxes.
Dimension Defaults
The Dimension Defaults command enables the Dimension Defaults dialog box which allows the default setting of subsequently inserted dimensions.
Colour Allows the colour to be set for subsequent insertion of dimension entities. This enables the Default Colour dialog box.
Layer Allows the layer to be set for subsequent insertion of dimension entities. This enables the Default Layer dialog box.
Style Allows the style to be set for subsequent insertion of dimension entities. This enables the Default Style dialog box.
Weight Allows the weight to be set for subsequent insertion of dimension entities. This enables the Default Weight dialog box.
Value Specifies whether the value option is inserted for subsequently inserted dimension entities and indicates the measured length, angle or area of the inserted dimension entity. This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the value of the dimension entity will be displayed. If No is selected, the value of the dimension entity will not be displayed.
Terminator Allows the selection of the terminator for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The terminator is the symbol appearing at the ends of dimension lines or the start of leader lines of a dimension entity. They indicate the entities that are being dimensioned. The choices are None, Arrow, Solid-Arrow, Dot, Solid-Dot, Slash and O-Arrow. The arrow heads and solid-arrow heads are subject to length and height values determined by the current selections of terminator length and terminator height respectively.
The Dot and Solid-dot radius value is determined by the current selection of terminator length only. The slash has a character width determined by the selection of terminator length only. The character width will be = (2 x terminator length value). No symbol is displayed if None is selected.
Prefix Allows the prefix to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The prefix is a sequence of alphanumeric characters preceding the value-text of a dimension entity. The choices are None, Radius, Diameter and User. If None is selected, no prefix will appear. If Radius is selected, the value will be preceded by the letter R. If Diameter is selected, the value will be preceded by the Greek letter phi (). If User is selected, the value will be preceded by the text specified by the operator.
Suffix Allows the suffix to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The suffix is a sequence of alphanumeric characters following the value-text of a dimension entity. The choices are None, Radius, Diameter and User.
If None is selected, no suffix will appear. If Radius is selected, the value will be followed by the letter R. If Diameter is selected, the value will be followed by the Greek letter phi (). If User is selected, the value will be followed by the text specified by the operator.
Tolerance Allows the tolerance option to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
Tolerance refers to the method of the tolerancing range to be applied to the value of a dimension entity. The choices are None, Dual, Upper-Lower and Plus-Minus.
Extension Allows the extension to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
Extension refers to the length of the portion of the projection lines that extend beyond its intersection with a dimension line. The extension is assigned a numeric value and is measured in model units (i.e. millimetres).
Projection Line Allows the projection line to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The projection line option refers to the method of displaying the projection lines of a dimension entity.
This is a choice between Gap and Length. If Gap is selected, the projection line option determines the actual gap distance between the starting ends of each projection line and the point locations selected for the dimension entity. The actual length of each projection line is determined by the dimension entity location selection. If Length is selected, the projection line option determines the actual length of each projection line from its intersection with the dimension line of the dimension entity. The actual gap distance of each projection line is determined by the dimension entity location selection.
Gap (Length) Allows the gap or length to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The effect of the gap or length option is determined by the projection line selection and determines the value of the selected method of displaying the projection lines of a dimension entity. If Gap has been selected for the projection line, the gap option determines the actual gap distance between the starting ends of each projection line and the point locations selected for the dimension entity. The actual length of each projection line is determined by the dimension entity location selection.
If Length has been selected for the projection line option, the length option determines the actual length of each projection line from their intersection with the dimension line of the dimension entity.
The actual gap distance of each projection line is determined by the dimension entity location selection.
The gap/length options are assigned a numeric value and are measured in model units (i.e. millimetres).
Placement Allows the placement to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The placement option refers to the positioning of arrowhead terminators relative to the projection line of a dimension entity. This is a choice between Inner and Outer. If Inner is selected, the arrowhead terminators will be placed inside the projection lines and on the dimension line.
The point of each arrowhead terminator will be directed away from the centre of the dimension line. If Outer is selected the arrowhead terminators will be placed outside the projection lines. The dimension line will be extended at each end by a length = (2 x term-len value), to accommodate the arrowhead terminator. The point of each arrowhead terminator will be directed toward the centre of the dimension line.
Unit Scale Allows the unit scale to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the multiplication factor applied to the value of a dimension entity.
For example, if the Group Scale command was used on entities with linear dimensions and they were scaled to twice their original size, a unit scale factor of 0.5 would be applied to correct the actual measured lengths in the model to the correct dimension value.
Terminator Length Allows the terminator length to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the length of the terminator collinear with the dimension line of a dimension entity. It is assigned a numeric value which is measured in model units.
The arrowhead lengths are directly determined by the value specified. The dot diameters and the slash character widths are determined by the factor = (2 x specified value).
Terminator Height Allows the terminator height to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the length of the terminator normal to the dimension line of a dimension entity. It is assigned a numeric value which is measured in model units.
The arrowhead heights are directly determined by the value. The dot diameters and the slash character widths are not affected (they are determined by terminator length only).
Precision Allows the precision to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the number of decimal places to be used when displaying the value of a dimension entity.
A numeric value is assigned which specifies the number of decimal places and must lie in the range 0-10 inclusive. For angular dimension entities assigned the angular option of D-M-S, a precision number of 0 will display a value in degrees only, 1 will display degrees and minutes and 2-10 will display degrees, minutes and seconds.
Angle display Allows the angular option to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the notation assigned to display the value of a dimension entity.
This is a choice between Decimal and D-M-S.
If Decimal is selected, the value will be displayed with decimal number notation of the fractions of a degree. If D-M-S is selected, the value will be displayed with minutes and seconds notation of the fractions of a degree (minutes and seconds will appear only if the precision option assigned to the dimension entity is greater than 1).
Text height Allows the text height to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the height value of all characters of the value-text of a dimension entity and is assigned a numeric value which is measured in model units. The value-text cannot be changed to the default options assigned to normal text entities, except Box.
All dimension entity values-text are assigned the option of Plot-Size Plot-Scale (i.e. dimension value-text is always plotted at the height specified, irrespective of the plot-scale value).
Text box Allows the text box to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the automatic enclosure of the value-text of a dimension within a rectangular or circular border.
The choices for this field are None, Box, Circle, Fix-Circle and Oval.
If None is selected, the value/text will consist of the characters only. If Box is selected, the value/text will be automatically enclosed within a box. If Circle is selected, the value/text will be automatically enclosed within a circle. If Fix-Circle is selected, the value/text will be automatically enclosed within a fix circle. If Oval is selected, the value/text will be automatically enclosed within an oval.
Tolerance entry Allows the tolerance entry to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Tolerance Entry option refers to the method to be applied to the tolerance range of the value of a dimension entity. This is a choice between Manual and Aust-Std. If Manual is selected, the tolerance range is specified by the operator as an upper and lower value.
If Aust-Std is selected, the tolerance range will be subject to the Australian Standards for types of Fits for Holes and Shafts. A modifier menu will be enabled allowing the type of Fit to be selected which automatically determines the tolerance range to be applied to the value.
First line Allows the first line option to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The first line option refers to the display of the first projection line of a dimension entity.
This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the first projection line will be displayed as determined by the appropriate options assigned to the dimension entity. If No is selected, the first projection line will not be displayed, irrespective of the appropriate options assigned to the dimension entity.
Second line Allows the second line option to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities and refers to the display of the second projection line of a dimension entity.
This is a choice between Yes and No.
If Yes is selected, the second projection line will be displayed as determined by the appropriate options assigned to the dimension entity. If No is selected, the second projection line will not be displayed, irrespective of the appropriate options assigned to the dimension entity.
Fractions Allows the fractions option to be selected for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The fractions option describes whether the calculated value of a dimension will be displayed as a decimal value or as a fractional value. The is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed with a fractional value. If No is selected, subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed with a decimal value.
1. The Dimension Defaults Precision value should be set to at least three decimal places for accurate calculation of fractions.
2. The fractional values will be measured in halves, quarters, eighths, sixteenths, thirty-seconds and sixty-fourths. Any value which is not an equal sixty-fourth will revert to a decimal value. 3. The precision of the dimension can be used to round off the value also.
Copy Allows the default settings of an existing dimension to be copied into the Dimension Defaults dialog box.
The [Page-2] button enables Page-2 of the Dimension Defaults dialog box.
Text colour Allows the text colour to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The text colour option defines the colour of the value/text and user defined suffix and prefix to be the colour defined in the Defaults Colour command or the colour described under the Alternate colour selection of this menu.
This is a choice between Alternate and Default.
If Alternate is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the colour defined under the Alternate colour selection of this menu. If Default is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the colour defined under the Dimension Defaults Colour command.
Alternate colour Allows the alternate colour to be set for dimension entities and defines the colour of the value/text and user defined suffix / prefix of subsequently inserted dimension entities, when the text colour option is Alternate. When selected, the Defaults Colour dialog box is enabled from which the colour is selected.
This option is only effective if the text colour option is set to Alternate.
Text layer Allows the text layer to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The text layer option defines the layer of the value-text and user defined suffix and prefix to be the layer defined in the Defaults Layer command or the layer described under the Alternate layer selection of this menu.
This is a choice between Alternate and Default. If Alternate is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed on the layer defined under the Alternate layer selection of this menu.
If Default is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed on the layer defined under the Dimension Defaults Layer command.
Alternate layer Allows the Alternate layer to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Alternate layer option defines the layer of the value-text and user defined suffix and prefix of subsequently inserted dimension entities, when the Text layer option is set to Alternate. When selected, the Defaults Layer dialog box is enabled from which the layer is selected.
This option is only effective if the text colour option is set to Alternate.
Text style Allows the text style to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Text style option defines the style of the value/text and user defined suffix and prefix to be the style defined in the Defaults Style command or the style described under the Alternate style selection of this menu. This is a choice between User and Default.
If User is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the style defined under the Alternate style selection of this menu. If Default is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the style defined under the Defaults Style command.
Alternate style Allows the Alternate style to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Alternate style option defines the style of the value/text and user defined suffix and prefix of subsequently inserted dimension entities, when the Text style option is set to User.
When selected, the Defaults Style dialog box is enabled from which the colour is selected.
This option is only effective if the text colour option is set to Alternate.
Text weight Allows the Text weight to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Text weight option defines the weight of the value/text and user defined suffix and prefix to be the weight defined in the Defaults Weight command or the weight described under the Alternate weight selection of this menu.
This is a choice between Alternate and Default. If Alternate is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the weight defined under the Alternate weight selection of this menu. If Default is selected, the text of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the weight defined under the Dimension Defaults Weight command.
Alternate weight Allows the Alternate weight to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Alternate weight option defines the weight of the valuetext and user defined suffix and prefix of subsequently inserted dimension entities, when the Text weight option is set to Alternate.
When selected, the Defaults Weight dialog box is enabled from which the weight is selected.
This option is only effective if the text colour option is set to Alternate.
Terminator weight Allows the Terminator weight to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities. The terminator weight option defines the weight of the terminators to be the weight defined in the Defaults Weight command or the weight described under the Alternate weight selection of this menu. This is a choice between Alternate and Default.
If Alternate is selected, the terminators of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the weight defined under the Alternate terminator weight selection of this menu. If Default is selected, the terminators of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the weight defined under the Dimension Defaults Weight command.
Alt Term weight Allows the Alternate terminator weight to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities. The Alternate terminator weight option defines the weight of the terminators of subsequently inserted dimension entities, when the Terminator weight option is set to Alternate.
When selected, the Defaults Weight dialog box is enabled from which the weight is selected.
This option is only effective if the text colour option is set to Alternate.
Text font Allows the Text font to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Text font defines the font of the value and user defined suffix and prefix which will be the ISO font or the font described under the Alternate font section of this menu.
This is a choice between Alternate and Default. If Alternate is selected, the text font of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the font defined under the Alt font selection of this menu.
If Default is selected, the font of subsequently inserted dimension entities will be displayed in the ISO font.
Alternate font Allows the Alternate font to be set for subsequently inserted dimension entities.
The Alternate font option defines the font of the value and user defined suffix and prefix of subsequently inserted dimension entities, when the Text font option is set to Alternate.
Dimension When selected, the Select the Alternate Font dialog box is enabled from which the font is selected.
This option is only effective if the text colour option is set to Alternate.
Text angle Allows the selection of the Text angle value and user defined suffix and prefix for dimension entities subsequently inserted. The Text angle is defined as the angle of the width component relative to the dimension line.
The Text angle is assigned a numeric value in degrees. A value of 0 degrees is parallel to the dimension line and a positive value is calculated in an anti-clockwise direction.
Text slant Allows the selection of the Text slant angle option of the text for dimension entities subsequently inserted. The Text slant angle is defined as the angle of the height component from its normal vertical position. The Text slant angle is assigned a numeric value in the range –89 to 89 degrees and is not relative to the currently active CPL.
A positive value of the text slant angle indicates a forward slant. A negative value of the text slant angle indicates a backward text slant.
Underline text Allows the default selection of the Underline text option of the text for dimension entities subsequently inserted. The Underlined text option refers to the automatic placing of lines under each line of the text of a dimension entity.
This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the text of a dimension entity will be automatically underlined. If No is selected, the text of a dimension entity will consist of the characters only.
Overline text Allows the default selection of the Overline text option of the text for dimension entities subsequently inserted. The Overlined text option refers to the automatic placing of lines over each line of text of a dimension entity. This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the text of a dimension entity will be automatically overlined. If No is selected, the text of a dimension entity will consist of the characters only.
Drawing text Allows the default selection of the Drawing text option of the text for dimension entities subsequently inserted and refers to the orientation and visual display of the dimension text. This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the text of a dimension entity will always appear parallel to the screen, irrespective of the view selected. If No is selected, the text of a dimension entity will be oriented relative to the active CPL on which it was originally inserted.
Break Lines Allows the default selection of the Break lines option of the text for dimension entities subsequently inserted.
The Break lines option refers to the breaking of the dimension line and placement of the text within the dimension line. This is choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the dimension line will be broken and the text will be placed in between the break. If No is selected, the dimension line will remain one line and the text will be placed above the line.
Sort points Allows the default selection of whether the Points selected for dimensioning are sorted to be sequential in the direction of the dimension or dimensioned in the order they were selected. This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, the points to be dimensioned are sorted sequentially in the direction of the dimension. If No is selected, the points will be dimensioned in the order they were selected.
Feet and inches Allows the default selection of the Feet and Inches option of the text for dimension entities subsequently inserted. The Feet and Inches option sets the format of the numeric display of the dimension value. This format is maintained regardless of the default units switching, i.e. no matter what the input units are, the dimension with this option will always be displayed in true length feet and inches.
Hor Justification Allows the prefix or suffix to have the text horizontal justification set for dimension leaders subsequently inserted. The choices are Normal, Left, Right and Centre.
The Normal option has the effect of centre justifying the prefix and suffix if both are present on a dimension leader. The prefix is right justified and the suffix is left justified.
Ver Justification Allows the prefix or suffix to have the text vertical justification set for dimension leaders subsequently inserted. The choices are Top, Bottom and Centre.
Trailing zeros Allows the display or removal of trailing zeros on the values when equal to whole numbers for subsequently inserted dimensions. This is a choice between Yes and No. If Yes is selected, trailing zeros will be displayed after the decimal point. If No is selected, trailing zeros will be removed after the decimal point.
Line Extension Allows an extension value so that the dimension line can proceed past the leader lines at both ends of the dimension run.
Fixed Circle Diameter Allows the diameter for the Text Box Fix-Circle option to be set which allows the dimension text to be surrounded by a circle of fixed diameter. The diameter of that circle is entered using this option.
* For more information on the Text Box Fix-Circle, refer to the Text Box option.
Space Value Allows the dimension text to be spaced according to the Australian Standard. The result is that each group of three numbers in the dimension text will be separated by a space.
Copy Allows the default settings of an existing dimension entity to be copied into the Defaults dialog box.
The Page-1 button enables Page-1 of the Dimension Defaults dialog box.
Dimension Move
The Dimension Move command allows the translation of a single dimension entity by a selected distance and direction. The dimension entity to move is selected. The initial and final positions of the dimension is then located. The dimension will continue to be moved until the command is aborted.
Only the dimension entity is moved; no associated entities are moved.
Dimension Copy
The Dimension Copy command allows the translation of a single dimension entity by a selected distance and direction. The dimension entity is copied. The dimension entity to copy is selected. Then the initial and final positions of the dimension is located. New dimension entities are inserted until the command is aborted. Only the dimension entity is copied; no associated entities are copied or stretched.
Dimension Delete
The Dimension Delete command permanently removes selected dimension entities from the database.
A confirmation of the selected dimension entities is required.
CAD > Inline
The CAD command is the entry point to the main 3D Modeller CAD engine on which Roof Wizard is developed.
CAD > Inline Menu
The inline menu allows you to call up a new command while in the middle of a current command. This is accessed by selecting F2 (function key 2) from the keyboard, or by moving the mouse to edge of the work space and clicking the middle button, or selecting Inline from the Pulldown menu.
If the F2 key is used, the Main menu must be turned on (Menu On/Off on the Pulldown menu).
The inline menu offers up a series of additional capabilities especially useful when editing lines on roof geometry. This is a summary of the inline options:
Intersection Allows you to pick a point at the intersection of two entities as listed.
Reference Allows you to define a reference or datum point to move incrementally from.
Origin Allows you to find the origin of an entity eg the origin of a circle is the centre.
Mid Point Allows you to find the mid-point between two points. You would normally pick the points using the middle button.
End Allows you to find the end of a line, typically if it goes off the workspace.
Distance Along Allows you to find a construction point an exact distance along a line.
X&Y&Z Allows you to pick a point at a precise X, Y, Z coordinate.
Select All Allows you to select everything on screen – to move or copy the entities.
Window Allows you to define a rectangular window to pick entities to move, stretch, delete or copy.
Poly Window Allows you to define a polygonal or irregular shape to capture entities to move, stretch, delete or copy.
Chain Allows you to pick a line and all lines connected to it will also be found.
Mask Allows you to mask entities from the pick box.
Exclude Allows you to select individual items to exclude from the transform function (move, stretch, delete or copy).
Repaint Repaints the screen.
Zoom Opens up various options for moving around the model.
CAD > Defaults
The Defaults menu allows changes to the default settings applied to the current database and model, the screen display workspace area, and the keyboard functions. It is NOT expected that the average estimator will need to change any of the more obscure settings listed below as AppliCad has set the software up for optimum use already. The details below are for information only.
Where changes to defaults settings need to be described for effective use, they have been described along with the functional description. For example, if you need to change the default colours for lines styles or text etc, that has been described with that functional command.
The settings that can be defined include:
• active layer, colour, style, weight and plot status for subsequently inserted entities,
• a selection of a group of colour, layer, style and weight options given a type name (see below),
• plot visibility status of subsequently inserted entities with respect to plotting,
• visibility status of subsequently inserted entities with respect to specific views,
• visibility status of specific entity types within the model,
• prevention of entity manipulation via their layer option,
• naming of a layer or group of layers,
• application of a colour mask,
• modification of colour definitions including screen, menu and background colours (Refer Colour Scheme – below),
• selection of different pulldown menu files,
• configuration of file libraries,
• visibility status of specific layers and colour,
• colour definition, by mixing the red, green and blue components of each colour,
• tolerances to be applied to curves, intersections of entities, and circles,
• screen layout, allowing the position, size of the areas, and the areas that are displayed,
• function key assignments,
• configuration of database memory allocation,
• automatic back-up file save frequency, enabling of an undo file for Group
commands,
• setup option to allow for network, plotting, sound and input devices,
• back-up text file,
• visibility status of plot-lines, status lines and text display options,
• display of tracking and dragging,
• option of tag copying when copying an entity.
CAD Entity Defaults
All geometric and text entities in the Roof Wizard software have the default options of colour, layer, style and weight that may be set.
Colour Allows the colour to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This enables the Defaults Colour dialog box. There are 256 colour numbers, and any colour number may be changed to any colour.
The colour nuber is changed using the colour table function, adjusting the slider bars or typing the R,G,B component of colour.
Layer Allows the layer to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This enables the Defaults Layer dialog box.
Style Allows the style to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This has no visual effect on the point graphics but may be used by application programs which extract this data for processing. This enables the Defaults Style dialog box.
Weight Allows the weight to be set for subsequent insertion of point entities. This has no visual effect on the point graphics but may be used by application programs which extract this data for processing. This enables the Defaults Weight dialog box.
Greater speed and efficiency in model creation and modification is enabled by displaying only the information necessary for each particular stage of the model’s construction. Furthermore, it can be displayed in the manner most suitable to the user’s individual preferences.
The currently defined default parameter settings can be permanently saved as a user-defined defaults file by using the File Defaults Write command. They are also permanently saved with the model when the
File Model Write, File Sub-Fig Write (with Save Full option selected) and File Update commands are performed.
CAD > Defaults > Colour Scheme
You can alter the screen colours using CAD > Defaults > Colour Table which lets you change the colour for individual components.
Clicking the colour System button, changes to User, which allows you to change each colour used by the modelling process for entity colours ie lines, circles etc. The software has 256 colour numbers which may be any colour set by using the slider bars and then clicking Apply.
To make these changes permanent and so they are there next time you start the software, select File > Save-values from the Pulldown menu to save them to the values file.
You can also select CAD >Defaults > Screen Layout > Colour Scheme from the pulldown menu to select a predefined colour scheme. This may have undesired effects on things like templates, so perhaps don’t change these unless you are confident with what you are doing or advised to do so.
CAD > Defaults > System Settings > Directory
The Defaults Directory command enables the user to view the current working directory. The current directory path should be the initial \User folder whether on the local drive or a shared network drive as set in System Preferences. If it appears that files are getting lost, the maybe the user has navigated away from the \User folder where all the pricing, material andjob files are located. Use this function to check.
CAD > Model > Visible Entities
The user may selectively display different CAD elements at any time. These are controlled by switching the visibility – you don’t delete them, you switch them off temporarily. Generally you will have everything but the points displayed. The roof elements such as storey’s, falshings etc are controlled by the Tools > Set Display command.
CAD > Defaults > Config > AutoSave
The software has a setting that auto-saves after a defined number of operations. The default setting is for 50 operations and saves after a Group change and each incremental Step change.
The autosave files are called Crash1.cra and Crash2.cra and saved to the ..\User\Temp folder.
The default setting is usually every 50 operations, but you can change that setting to a more frequent one say, 10. It saves to a file called Crash1 and then to Crash2 and alternates, in case one off the crash files also becomes corrupt during the save. You have the option to define a different auto-save file name, but don’t do this. Too many things for you to remember. Leave it with the default file names so we know where to look if you call tech support.
Should you find that you need to recover a crash file, go to File > Recover Crash, and the latest copies of each file are displayed for you to select from. check the time and date to ensure that you select the most recent version of your job.