Create Complex Shape

Used to create a complex shape (a closed complex element that can be manipulated as if it were one primitive element) from a series of open planar elements (lines, line strings, arcs, and curves, and open B-spline curves). The resulting complex shape takes on the active element attributes regardless of the attributes of the component elements.

You can access this tool from the following:

Ribbon: Drawing > Home > Groups
Ribbon: Modeling > Home > Groups
Toolbox: Groups

Setting	Description
Method	Sets how elements are added to complex shape. Manual — Each element is manually selected. Automatic — After the first element is selected and accepted, if endpoints of additional open element(s) are within the Max. Gap distance of each other, they are included automatically until a closed shape is created. Where there is a choice of two or more elements (at the endpoint of an element) then the process lets you choose to either Accept the highlighted element, or Reset to see the alternative(s).
Max(imum) Gap	The largest distance allowed between consecutive elements, if Method is Automatic. If zero, only elements that connect (have a common endpoint) can be added.
Simplify geometry	If on, connected lines are added to the boundary as line strings. If you select only connected lines, the tool produces a primitive shape element rather than a complex shape.
Area	Sets the type of shape created. Solid — The shape created is solid (can be hatched/patterned). Hole — The shape created is a hole (cannot be hatched/patterned).
Fill Type	Sets the active Fill Type. None — No fill Opaque — Filled with Active Color Outlined — Filled with Fill Color (outline of shape takes the Active Color)
Fill Color	Complex shape is filled with this color and optional gradient if the Fill Type is Outlined; otherwise disabled (dimmed).

Key-in: CREATE SHAPE [ MANUAL | AUTOMATIC ]

Note: When elements are connected, the connections appear as "lines". These connections are part of the complex chain but are not elements. They disappear when complex status is dropped. It is recommended that elements be connected manually before being included in a complex chain.

Note: If an element is accepted that is connected to the first element selected, the complex shape is closed. If no element is found within the Max. Gap, a line element is created between the open endpoints of the first and last elements and the complex shape is closed.

Note: To convert a complex shape back to its individual components, use the Drop Element tool.

Tip: To draw a complex shape of connected arcs and line segments with one tool, use the Place SmartLine tool.