Constructs a vertical curve from a designated point to an element.

You can access this tool from the following:

Use the Profile Curve to Element tool to construct a vertical curve from a designated point to an element.

1. Select the Parabola to Element icon.

   
   Note: If your View isn't in Profile mode, an error message will indicate that you need to Open Profile Model.

   • The Profile Curve to Element dialog opens.

     

   • Checking the box next to any of the fields locks in the associated value.

2. When you move the cursor into the Profile View, it is equipped with a command prompt that invites you to choose an End Point, so move the cursor to the point at which you wish the curve to originate then data point, example, left-click.

   

3. When prompted to "Locate Reference Profile", move the cursor to the element to which you wish to draw a curve then data point on it.

   

4. Use one of the following methods to set the Vertical Offset:

   

   • As you move the cursor, a value is displayed on the prompt. Data point at the desired value.

   • Enter a value and strike the Enter key then data point.

5. When prompted to "Enter Through Point", use one of the following methods to designate a point through which the curve must pass (navigate the options by striking the left or right arrow keys):

   

   • As you move the cursor, a value is displayed on the prompt. Data point at the desired value.

   • Enter a value for Start Grade and strike the Enter key then data point.

   • Enter a value for End Grade and strike the Enter key then data point.

   • Enter a value for Vertical Curve Parameter and strike the Enter key then data point.

6. To trim the element at the intersection of the curves or to extend the new curve to intersect with the old, your Offest value must be zero. Strike the down arrow key to choose the Back option then strike the Enter key.

   

Vertical Curve Type

The option for curve type can be changed in the dialog or by pressing Shift key on keyboard. Supported curve types are:

• Parabola - Symmetric Parabolic Curve

• Circular - A simple curve defined by radius

Properties

To View the new element's properties, equip the Element Selection tool.

Select the element in the View then let the cursor hover over the selected element. Click the Properties icon to access rule data for the chosen element.

Custom Tool

These pre-customized versions provide a simplified prompt sequence for many common construction tools. Right-click on the Profile Curve to Element icon then choose Show/Hide Arc from Element Tools to access the following option:

• Parabola to Element - Creates a parabola to an element, Offset is locked at zero

• Circular Curve to Element - Creates a simple profile radius to an element, Offset is locked at zero