OpenPlant Modeler Help

Custom Section Editor

Used to create custom sections by selecting MicroStation elements to define the section profile. Permissible MicroStation element types are:

  • LINE_ELM
  • LINE_STRING_ELM
  • ARC_ELM
  • SHAPE_ELM
  • CMPLX_SHAPE_ELM
Accessed from:
  • Ribbon: Structural > Sections > Create Custom Section
SettingDescription
Name Used to enter a unique name for the custom section. A warning is issued if an existing name is used.
Use Thickness When on, the value entered in the Thickness option is applied to the selected element(s) giving them thickness.

This option automatically set to be on when open elements (LINE_ELM, LINE_STRING_ELM and ARC_ELM) are selected. Turning it off results in a warning dialog.

It is optional for closed elements (SHAPE_ELM, CMPLX_SHAPE_ELM and a circle ARC_ELM). You can either create a hollow section by specifying a thickness for a single closed element or select single or multiple closed elements to add an opening to the section.

Thickness Used to enter a thickness value. Applied when Use Thickness is on.
Preview Displays a 3D preview of the active section definition including it's placement point and member line. You can change the view rotation and the rendering mode using the drop down toolbars in the top left corner of the preview panel.
Tip: If you do not see the member line (yellow by default), try changing the display to wireframe.
Available Sections Lists sections defined in the project dgnlib or active dgn by category. A right click menu provides options to Delete or Rename selected sections.
Note: A section may be deleted only if it is not referenced by another object in the model. Sections are checked both for references by IsmCurveMembers as well as references from "compound" sections such as a varying sections or built up sections. If a section has references, Delete is disabled. Renaming is permitted even if a section is in use since the name is a cosmetic property. The relationships are based on the EC instances so the name is not used.
Key-in: SMC SECTION CUSTOM
Parent topic: Sections