Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
ChAPtER 9
Designing in 3D
using Corridors
Long before AutoCAD
®
Civil 3D
®
objects, CAD, or even computers
existed, engineers were designing roads and other linear features in three
stages: alignment, profile, and cross section. I suspect the reason for this is
that it's much easier to think of a design one dimension at a time rather than
think of all three dimensions at once. This was especially true before designs
could be visualized in 3D on a computer screen. This approach to linear
design has carried right through to the present day and is still evident, even
with cutting-edge technology such as Civil 3D.
You have already learned about the alignment and profile stages of this
design approach. In this chapter, you'll learn how assemblies are used
to provide the third stage of the design process: the cross section. Then
you'll combine all three elements (alignments, profiles, and assemblies)
to take this three-stage design process to the next level: a dynamic three-
dimensional model.
In this chapter, you'll learn to
▶
Understand corridors
▶
Create an assembly
▶
Create a corridor
▶
Apply corridor targets
▶
Create corridor surfaces
understanding Corridors
A
corridor
consists of hundreds or even thousands of individual Civil 3D objects
that are dynamically linked to one another. A good way to begin understanding
how corridors work is to study how these different components come together
to become a 3D representation of your design.
