Creating a In-Place Element

Quite often you need a component that is unique to your project, maybe it's a unique counter top or a tapered profile etc, in these cases you can create a in-place element. In-Place Elements are different to Mass Elements, an In-Place Element is in place of a unique component. Mass Elements are to help you create the form and design of your project. Don't use Mass Elements when you should use a In-Place Element.

·         To create a in-place element click the Model In-Place icon situated below the Component Icon.

·         This will then open up a dialog box where you need to select the Family Category. If it counter top select casework, if it's a column select Columns etc... Be selective, your in place element will be categorized under the selected category.

·         Name your new element.

·         After naming your element the typical mass element dialog box tools will appear. Here you have a choice of tools to help you create your new element such as Extrusions, Blends, Revolves, Sweeps, Swept Blends etc.

Note: Unlike when you create a mass element or a family component you don't have the ability to create multiple forms.

·         Create your form and assign the desired material to your element under the material properties.

·         Finish Model.

Remember:  if you think that at any point you will use this element again don't create a in-place family create a Family Component, this way you will be able to use it over and over again.

Variable Thickness Assembly Components

When you want to create a sloped balcony floor assembly but you need to have the underside of the balcony floor to remain level you can set the structural component to vary in thickness.

Under the Edit Assembly dialog box check the variable check box on the component that you want to vary.

Now when you select the balcony you'll see there are new grips which you can now use to modify the component using the Modify Sub Element icon on the Shape Editing panel.