Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
the family. The vertical plane is the center point between the left and right
side, while the horizontal plane defines the front and back of the family.
The insertion point will be at the intersection of these two planes. You can
change the properties of a reference plane so that it establishes the insertion
point by editing the Is Reference and Defines Origin parameters.
For face-hosted families, these planes define the insertion point only as it
relates to the face of the host extrusion. If you place a device family into
a model and attach it to a vertical face, you have to give it an elevation. A
default elevation is assigned in the type parameters of the family.
When you're placing a device in your project, the Elevation parameter in
the Properties palette can be used to adjust the mounting elevation of the
device. When you use the Device tool on the Electrical panel of the Systems
tab, subsequent placement of devices in the same category will use the
last elevation value input during placement, regardless of the value in the
Default Elevation parameter. If you select a device and use the Create
Similar tool, the default elevation, as defined in the family, is used (unless
modified prior to placement). Either way, it is best to apply the most
commonly used value for the type of device to the Default Elevation
parameter so that if users do not manually apply an elevation, the device is
placed correctly for most instances.
If you determine that your device family should be parametric, it is best
to use reference lines or planes to establish the dimensions that are to be
editable. For the most part, the length, width, and depth dimensions should
give you enough flexibility to create the various family types within your
device family that meet your modeling needs.
When using a reference line or plane to create a dimension, consider how
you want the geometry to change upon data input. Should the geometry
grow or shrink in one direction? Does it need to grow an equal distance on
each side ofthecenter? These typesofquestions will helpyoudetermine the
amountandplacementofreferences.Theorderinwhichyoudrawreference
planes determines the direction that a parametric dimension between them
