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April 2008
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Chapter 1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Extracting the Project Datasets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Working with Metric Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Getting Started with this Tutorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Creating a Tutorial Profile and Tutorial Shortcut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
About the Content Builder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Understanding Parametric and Block-based Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Getting Started with the Content Builder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Exploring the Block-Based Building Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Exploring the Parametric Building Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
About the Catalog Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Understanding Part Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Understanding Part Sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Getting Started with the Catalog Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
v
Exercise 6: Validating and Saving a Parametric Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Lesson 4: Creating a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Exercise 1: Specifying the Part Configuration of a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Exercise 2: Creating a 3D Model for a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Exercise 3: Assigning Connectors to a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Exercise 4: Adding Dimensions to a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Exercise 5: Adding Part Sizes to a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Exercise 6: Generating a Preview Image and Defining Insertion Behavior for a Parametric
MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Exercise 7: Validating and Saving a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Lesson 5: Modifying a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Exercise 1: Modifying the Connectors and Dimensions of a Parametric MvPart . . . . . . . . . . 92
Exercise 2: Copying a Parametric MvPart to Create a New Part Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
vi | Contents
Introduction
1
The Content Builder tools included with AutoCAD MEP provide you with a powerful environment in which you can
create and modify parts.
The parts you create and the libraries of common industry parts provided with AutoCAD MEP are stored in part catalogs.
You can create and modify part catalogs to meet your needs using the Catalog Editor.
This tutorial shows you how to use both the Content Builder and the Catalog Editor, using examples of real-word parts.
You can follow the workflow presented in these lessons when creating your own parts and part catalogs.
The Content Builder lessons and the Catalog Editor lessons are grouped separately so that they can be used independently
of each other. Chapter 2 shows you how to create parts using the Content Builder. Chapter 3 shows you how to create
and modify catalogs using the Catalog Editor. Each chapter consists of a series of lessons, with each lesson building upon
the preceding one. To derive the most benefit from these process-based lessons, complete the lessons in a chapter from
start to finish.
1
Getting Started with this Tutorial
To use this tutorial, you must use a set of metric catalogs and related drawings provided exclusively for the
tutorial. The tutorial catalogs are provided to keep your tutorial content separate from the content in your
other catalogs. As you work through the lessons in this tutorial, it is strongly recommended that you store
all tutorial-related content in the tutorial catalogs.
While you might be accustomed to using imperial units in your day-to-day work, the lessons in this metric
tutorial cover all of the same tasks necessary for you to create custom content using either metric or imperial
units.
To ease switching between the tutorial catalogs and the design catalogs, the following exercise instructs you
to create a Content Tools Tutorial profile and a related desktop shortcut. When you create the tutorial profile,
you define the tutorial catalogs as your default part catalogs. When you create the tutorial shortcut, you
define the Content Tools Tutorial profile as your default profile. Therefore, when you launch AutoCAD MEP
using the tutorial shortcut, the tutorial catalogs are your default part catalogs.
IMPORTANT Use the Content Tools Tutorial Profile shortcut for every tutorial session. Use the AutoCAD MEP
2009 shortcut for every design session.
■ In the Select catalog file for Multi-view Parts dialog, browse to the following folder: My
Documents\Autodesk\My Projects\Content Tools\Tutorial MvParts Catalog.
NOTE The Windows XP default location for My Documents is C:\Documents and Settings\<user
name>\My Documents. To identify its location on your computer, right-click My Documents on
the desktop, click Properties, and examine the value for Target.
2 | Chapter 1 Introduction
■ In the Select catalog file for Pipes dialog, browse to My Documents\Autodesk\My
Projects\Content Tools\Tutorial Pipe Catalog.
12 Click OK.
Create a tutorial workspace
Workspaces are user interface configurations that you can customize for specific tasks. Next, you create a
workspace that displays the menu you need for this tutorial.
15 In the Save Workspace dialog, for Name, enter Content Tools Tutorial. Click Save.
16 IMPORTANT Whenever you start AutoCAD MEP to work with this tutorial, select Content Tools
Tutorial as your initial workspace in the Workspaces dialog. The workspace displays the CAD Manager
menu that you need for the tutorial.
Change back to the AutoCAD MEP profile for your standard shortcut
22 On the Windows® desktop, right-click the shortcut for AutoCAD MEP 2009, and click Copy.
23 In the location where you want to place the new shortcut, right-click, and click Paste.
24 Right-click the shortcut name, and click Rename.
25 Enter Content Tools Tutorial Profile, and press Enter.
IMPORTANT The /p switch is the profile control for the shortcut. The value you enter must be the
exact name of the profile, and the value must be enclosed in quotation marks. As you enter the value,
take care to avoid modifying any other target information.
28 Click OK.
Test the shortcut
34 Click the MEP Catalogs tab, and verify that the Multi-view Part and Pipe catalogs are the tutorial
catalogs.
35 Click OK.
The Content Tools Tutorial shortcut is created and tested. When you launch AutoCAD MEP using this
shortcut, the tutorial catalogs are set as your default Multi-view Part and Pipe catalogs. As you work through
the exercises in this tutorial, these catalogs hold the accumulated part families and individual part sizes you
create and modify.
IMPORTANT Use the Content Tools Tutorial Profile shortcut for every tutorial session. Use the AutoCAD MEP
2009 shortcut for every design session.
4 | Chapter 1 Introduction
About the Content Builder
The Content Builder is a content creation tool included in AutoCAD MEP. It is an integrated package of
3-dimensional (3D) modeling tools and 2-dimensional (2D) drafting and drawing capabilities that helps you
to conceptualize, design, and build content.
In AutoCAD MEP, content is used to represent real-world parts, such as fittings and equipment. Each piece
of content represents a part family, such as air terminals, junction boxes, or tanks, that contains a collection
of part sizes, such as a 150 mm x 100 mm rectangular floor register or a 25 mm conduit 13-hole square
junction box. The Content Builder enables you to create and modify part families and individual part sizes.
When you use the Content Builder, you build 3D models of parts. A model is defined in terms of the size,
the shape, and the position of the features that comprise the part. You associate the part to a catalog, and
you add connectors to the part so that it can connect intelligently to other AutoCAD MEP objects and
transfer information when it does.
Parametric Parts
Parametric parts give you the flexibility to create parts that are dynamically sized according to size parameters.
You define a parametric part by creating a 3D model of the part and assigning variables (parameters) to
control its shape and size. Parameters are defined by individual values, lists of values, or calculated values
based on equations.
When you add a parametric part to a drawing, you specify values for the part’s parameters, and the part is
dynamically built to reflect the specified shape and size. Parametric parts enable you to create a single 3D
model for a part family that can be represented in multiple part sizes. Parametric parts enable you to define
millions of parts through a single model, depending on the number and the type of its parameters.
It is recommended that you create parametric parts for equipment and fittings that have simple designs and
that require many part sizes. For example, an air terminal can have numerous sizes that all share the same
geometric features, where only the features change in size based on the overall part size. This is also the case
for fittings such as elbows, tees, and crosses. For example, a round 80 mm elbow looks the same as a round
160 mm elbow, except for the diameter and elbow radius.
When you create a parametric part for an elbow fitting, you create a single 3D model of a round elbow, and
you assign parameters for the diameter and the elbow radius that change in size as needed. When you insert
the elbow in a drawing during layout, you can specify the diameter and the radius, and the elbow is
dynamically built to match.
A block-based part is defined as a part whose geometry is based on individual AutoCAD® blocks. Each part
size is associated with unique 3D model blocks for which you specify basic information, such as view
representations and connector placement. 2-dimensional (2D) block representations are generated
automatically for each part size.
When you add a block-based part to a drawing, you select a specific part size, and the unique representation
of the fixed-size part is added to the drawing.
It is recommended that you create block-based parts for equipment and fittings that have complex designs
and that require only a few part sizes. Equipment such as air handling units, motor control centers, or pumps
typically includes unique parts with their own geometric features. Shape, size, connection points, and
properties such as manufacturer or material might differ. For example, a gas air handling unit and an electric
air handling unit typically are different not only in shape and size, but also in the placement of connection
points and the types of connectors required.
In the example shown, each part size of the air handling unit is associated with unique 3D model blocks.
Because of the fundamental differences between the units, you cannot use a single 3D model to represent
both units.
6 | Chapter 1 Introduction
Part Catalog List
You select a part catalog from a list of installed catalogs. The list reflects only those part catalogs specified
on the MEP Catalogs tab in the Options dialog. Each catalog represents a group of parts for a specific domain,
such as pipe.
IMPORTANT When selecting a part catalog, it is important to consider the type of part you want to create or
modify. An MvPart must belong to a single domain; however, you can specify a different domain for each connector.
For example, an air handling unit belongs to the Mechanical domain, but can have a drain connector assigned
to the Pipe domain, a power connector assigned to the Conduit domain, and air inlet and air outlet connectors
assigned to the Duct domain.
The part catalog browser organizes the parts in a catalog in a hierarchical tree view that you can navigate
by expanding and collapsing the different levels (chapters) in the tree.
When selecting a part to create or modify, the software detects the type of part catalog you specified and
guides you with activated icons to the appropriate building environment. For example, if you select a chapter
in the MvPart catalog, both the New Block Part and the New Parametric Part icons are available. However,
if you select a chapter in a component catalog, such as Duct or Cable Tray, only the New Parametric Part
icon is available.
The toolbar gives you access to the parametric and block-based building environments. If you position the
cursor over a tool, a tooltip provides a brief description of the associated function. The following tools are
activated based on the catalog, the chapter, and the part that you select:
Icon Description
■ In the Wizard mode, you create new block-based parts or add new part sizes to existing part families.
The Wizard mode steps you through defining the following: part behavior, individual part sizes, the
AutoCAD® blocks used to represent each part size, a preview image to assist during part selection, part
connectors, and property set information.
8 | Chapter 1 Introduction
First dialog in the wizard
■ In the Tabbed mode, you modify block-based parts. Tabs are available for part behavior, assigned blocks
and names, preview image, part connectors, and assigned property information. You can modify the
values on one or all of the tabs in any order.
Behavior tab
In Lesson 1 of this tutorial, you use the Wizard mode to create a block-based MvPart. In Lesson 2, you use
the Tabbed mode to modify the block-based part.
This environment features a part browser, a modeling area, a toolbar, a status bar, and a series of
feature-specific shortcut menus.
■ The part browser is displayed on the left and provides an organized view of the features of your part. As
you define your part, new features are nested in a hierarchy under the appropriate folder. In the browser,
you can show as much or as little detail as you want by expanding or collapsing the folders.
■ The modeling area is displayed on the right and gives you full view control over a part model. You can
use the standard AutoCAD® view commands to change the direction in which you view the model.
■ The toolbar provides quick access to important Content Builder commands, such as those for saving the
part, saving an existing part as a new part, generating a preview image, validating the part, and specifying
part options.
■ The status bar at the bottom of the part browser provides information about whether the part has been
validated successfully.
■ Feature-specific menus are available when you right-click a part feature in the browser window.
The part browser and the modeling area are resizable windows. You can drag a corner of a window to change
its shape and size, and you can drag a window to a new location on your screen.
In Lesson 3 of this tutorial, you use the parametric environment to create a parametric fitting. In Lesson 4,
you use the environment to create a parametric MvPart.
10 | Chapter 1 Introduction
Part catalogs contain the information required to define a part in AutoCAD MEP. A part catalog typically is
organized into chapters, which are groups of related parts. For example, the MvParts catalog is grouped into
domain-specific chapters, such as Mechanical, and then into part type-specific chapters, such as Air Terminal.
Each part type chapter contains a unique part family, such as Diffusers, which stores individual part sizes,
such as the 600x600 mm Square Faced Ceiling Diffuser.
Depending on your design project, either you or your CAD manager might want to browse or modify the
details of a part catalog, including the part data. Using the Catalog Editor, you can do the following:
■ Copy and paste, or drag and drop, part data between catalogs
This tutorial shows you how to perform many of these tasks in the Catalog Editor.
DWG file: The drawing (DWG) file stores the model geometry that defines the appearance and enables
the display of the part.
BMP file: The bitmap (BMP) file stores the preview image of the part, which helps to identify the part
during part selection.
XML file: The extensible mark-up language (XML) file stores the part sizes and additional part properties
that define the part.
Basic Table: Each parameter is stored as a separate column. An entire row across multiple columns defines
the related parameters of a specific part size. All parameter columns must have the same number of
values.
Constant Lists: Each parameter is stored as a separate list and can be used in combination with other
lists of values to define multiple part sizes. Each parameter list is independent and can have an infinite
number of values.
Constants: Each parameter is stored as a separate value that remains the same for all of the part sizes.
Calculations: Each parameter is stored as a formula. Values are calculated based on other values specified
for the part size.
When you open a part catalog, the tree view in the left pane shows the chapters and parts in the current
catalog. In the left pane, you can browse the catalog as well as add, delete, copy, paste, and save part data.
When you click a chapter or part, the associated data is displayed in the right pane in a table format.
12 | Chapter 1 Introduction
In Lesson 6: Exploring the Catalog Editor on page 97, you will explore the Catalog Editor in more detail.
15
model block. When you insert the MvPart in a drawing, all associated blocks are part of one object; therefore,
you need to maintain a common insertion point.
When creating a 2D schematic symbol for a block-based MvPart, you can use any drawing command to
make the geometry for the block. You should create all of the geometry using basic AutoCAD entities, such
as lines, polylines, arcs, and circles.
Generally, every part has a schematic symbol that you add to your schematic design layouts. Using the
Content Builder, you can assign a different symbol block to each part size, or you can assign the same symbol
block to all part sizes. The symbol block provides a schematic representation of the part size for use in plan
views. Typically, the same symbol block is used for all part sizes in a part family. You must save the symbol
block in an AutoCAD drawing file. (You can save one or more symbol blocks in the same drawing file.) The
Content Builder scales and wraps the symbol block with a bounding box of the 3D model. This ensures that
valid connections can be maintained between the schematic symbol and the connecting schematic lines.
Dataset
My Documents\Autodesk\My Projects\Content Tools\Tutorial Air Handling Unit L01 E01.dwg
2 Compare the model in the drawing area to the illustration below in preparation for adding
AutoCAD points to help locate connectors.
Adding AutoCAD point objects in the center of the connections allows you to use Node object
snaps to select the connection points when assigning connectors.
TIP To make your point style match the points shown in the illustrations in this exercise, click Format
menu ➤ Point Style, and select . For Point Size, enter 90, select Set Size in Absolute Units, and
click OK.
■ Click (Point) on the Shapes toolbar, and use osnaps to select the intersection of the
supply air duct connection.
■ Use osnaps to select the midpoint of the return air duct connection.
NOTE Only one connector is required to make a valid part. However, in this lesson, you create an
air handling unit with all connectors, so that you can fully test the part in an AutoCAD MEP drawing.
■ Click on the Shapes toolbar, and use osnaps to select the center of the drain connection.
■ Click on the Shapes toolbar, and use osnaps to select the center of the left power
connection.
11 Press Esc.
TIP To facilitate part identification, establish a naming convention for model blocks that includes the
part family and the part sizes. Including “model” in the name ensures automatic generation of 2D
view blocks.
15 Under Objects, click , draw a selection window around all of the objects in the drawing
area, and press Enter.
The dialog closes temporarily while you select objects for the block. When you press Enter, the
dialog reopens.
NOTE The Block Definition dialog contains a Hyperlink button, which you can use to associate a
hyperlink with a block definition. For example, you can link to an existing file or a web page, such
as a part specification sheet on a manufacturer’s web site. For more information about the Block
Definition dialog, see the AutoCAD Help.
19 Click OK.
The model block is saved in the current drawing.
■ Enter 0,0 for the first corner point, and press Enter.
■ Enter @1000,500 for the second corner point, and press Enter.
The symbol block is used as a 2D representation of the part size; therefore, you should draw
the symbol block to represent the 2D symbol of the modeled object in plan view. It is
automatically scaled to the size of the 3D model so you need only draw a small rectangle as
the shape you want to see in a top view of a schematic representation.
■ On the Properties palette, for Color and for Linetype, select ByBlock. Verify that layer 0 is
selected for Layer, and verify that ByLayer is selected for Lineweight.
22 Press Esc.
23 Click Format menu ➤ Blocks ➤ Block Definition.
24 In the Block Definition dialog, for Name, enter AHU HG350-HG400 symbol.
Use a naming convention that represents the part family when you save the symbol as a block.
TIP Name the symbol block “symbol” to have the Content Builder use the symbol block as the source
for generating the 3D symbol in schematic views.
26 Under Objects, click , select the rectangle that you added for the symbol block, and press
Enter.
27 Under Objects, select Retain.
28 Under Settings, verify that Millimeters is selected for Block unit.
29 For Description, enter Roof Top AHU HG350-HG400 symbol.
This identifies the symbol block for easy retrieval.
30 Click OK.
The symbol block is saved in the current drawing.
31 Click File menu ➤ Close, and close the drawing without saving.
In this exercise, you created a 3D model and a schematic symbol for a block-based air handling unit MvPart.
Each part size requires a unique 3D model block. You can have one or more model blocks in a single drawing
file representing each part size in a part family. Next, you launch the Content Builder, where you define the
catalog information and behavior of the MvPart.
Launch the Content Builder and add the new part to the MvPart catalog
4 In the tree view, select Tutorial MvParts Catalog, and click (New Chapter).
5 In the New Chapter dialog, for Name, enter Air Handling Units, and click OK.
6 With the Air Handling Units chapter selected in the tree view, click (New Block Part).
IMPORTANT When you select the MvPart Domain, both the New Block Part and the New Parametric
Part icons are activated. Be sure to click the New Block Part icon.
7 For Name, enter Tutorial Air Handling Unit, and press Tab.
NOTE The name specified for the part family in the New Part dialog is used to name the files that
define the part in the catalog: the XML file, DWG file, and BMP file (if a preview image is assigned).
The description specified for the part family is displayed during part selection.
10 For Layer Key, click [...], select AirHandlingUnits, and click OK.
The layer key list reflects the set of layer keys currently assigned in your drawing, based on the
previously selected layer standard and layer key style. Selecting a layer key that matches the part
type ensures the best possible layering of part sizes.
12 Click Next.
13 With the Content Builder still open, proceed to the next exercise.
In this exercise, you launched the Content Builder and defined the catalog information and behavior for
the air handling unit MvPart. Next, you assign additional information to the MvPart, including a name and
views.
If you create several part sizes, you can specify a unique name for each part size. The part size name typically
reflects the actual size of the part (such as dimensions for width and height) or the total output (in L/s or
cfm). It is used for part selection in the MvPart Add dialog. The part size name is also used in the part catalogs
and appears as the object name when using tooltips. Therefore, you should specify a descriptive part size
name for easy part identification.
View Blocks
View blocks are generated and assigned by default for part sizes assigned a 3D model block that have names
ending in “model”; for example, AHU Commercial Roof 400x400 model. Unassigned view blocks display as
empty fields. View blocks that display in red have been assigned a name based on the 3D model block;
however, they are missing a defined block. You can assign a predefined view block or generate the missing
view blocks using the Content Builder. The Content Builder generates the 6 standard AutoCAD view blocks
(top, bottom, left, right, front, and back) from the 3D model block. You can assign the same view block to
multiple view directions, such as front and back, depending on part symmetry. You also assign to the part
family the 2D symbol block you created previously for generating a 2D symbol for each part size. The views
determine how the individual part size is displayed in your drawing.
NOTE View blocks can be generated for multiple part sizes at one time. You can add multiple part sizes, and then
generate the missing view blocks for all part sizes.
Every part family has a graphical preview image that helps during part selection. Using the Content Builder,
you assign a preview image to the part family. Typically, you create an image using visual styles before using
the Content Builder, but you can also use the Content Builder to generate a preview image based on the 3D
model. The preview image should be a representative image of the part family, typically a shaded model
view of one of the part sizes in an SW isometric view. The same preview image is used for all part sizes of a
part family.
The list of 3D model blocks reflects the blocks in the active drawing.
A new part size is added to the part family, and a new row appears in the table. View blocks are
assigned by default when the 3D model block name ends in “model.” Assigned view blocks with
associated blocks display in black. Any view block assigned a name based on the 3D model block,
but missing a block, displays in red. All unassigned view blocks display as empty fields.
3 Double-click the value for Part Size Name, enter AHU HG350, and press Enter.
4 For Symbol Block, select AHU HG350-HG400 symbol, and press Enter.
Assign views
5 To create the missing view blocks for block names that display in red, click Generate Blocks.
NOTE The symbol block is used in Isometric mode and is displayed as a 3D boundary box of the
model block with 2D symbology to represent the part itself.
6 Click OK.
The new part size is updated with the generated view blocks.
7 Click Next.
If Next is unavailable (shaded), information is missing on this page. Verify that each part size
has a defined name and that all view blocks display in black.
11 Click Next.
If Next is unavailable (shaded), information is missing on this page. Verify that you have selected
a preview image for the part family.
12 With the Content Builder still open, proceed to the next exercise.
In this exercise, you named the MvPart and assigned the views and the preview image for the part. Next,
you add the connectors to the part.
IMPORTANT The size and shape of every connector for a part size can be different. However, the number of
connectors must be the same for all part sizes of an MvPart. When you add or delete a connector from a part
family, all part sizes are updated.
3 In the Part Family Connector Properties dialog, specify a value for each of the connector
properties:
■ For Name, enter Air Supply.
4 Click OK, and in the tree view, expand Air Supply under AHU HG350 to see the values you
specified.
5 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to add a connector named Air Return that has a flow direction of In.
6 In the tree view, right-click the part family, click Add Pipe Connector.
7 In the Part Family Connector Properties dialog, specify a value for each of the connector
properties:
■ For Name, enter Condensate Drain.
NOTE The connector domain and shape are predefined based on the type of connector selected
and cannot be changed in the dialog. The domain and shape are defined once for the part family
and remain the same for all part sizes.
9 In the tree view, right-click the part family, and click Add Conduit Connector.
10 In the Part Family Connector Properties dialog, specify a value for each of the connector
properties:
■ For Name, enter Power 1.
NOTE The connector domain and shape are predefined based on the type of connector selected
and cannot be changed in the dialog. The domain and shape are defined once for the part family
and remain the same for all part sizes.
■ Click OK.
12 In the tree view, under the part size (AHU HG350), right-click Air Supply, and click Edit
Placement.
A properties palette and drawing area are displayed.
■ To specify the location of the connector, enter p (Position), and use osnaps to select the
node at the air supply connection point.
The connector position is updated in the model.
■ On the properties palette, double-click the value for Normal, enter 0,0,-1, and press Enter.
TIP When defining the direction for connecting components to be drawn, you can either select
2 points or specify the direction and a single point. You can also enter X,Y,Z values to indicate
direction as provided in the table for the normal direction or flow direction.
■ Click OK.
14 For each remaining connector, right-click the connector in the tree view, click Edit Placement,
and use the information in the table below to define the remaining connectors. There are graphics
shown on the model to visually confirm placement values such as position and normal direction.
Visual confirmation
Rotation 0 0 0 0 0
Width 300
Height 1400
Diameter 20 63 63 25
Nominal 25
Diameter
IMPORTANT The Global profile uses design catalogs instead of tutorial catalogs as the default catalogs.
You need to use design catalogs so you can add duct, pipe, and conduit segments to test the part.
Next, you specify the Tutorial MvParts catalog as the default MvParts catalog, so the custom Tutorial Air
Handling Unit is available for part selection.
4 With the Options dialog still open, click the MEP Catalogs tab.
5 Click the path for Multi-view parts, click Browse, and browse to the following folder: My
Documents\Autodesk\My Projects\Content Tools\Tutorial MvParts Catalog.
6 Select Tutorial MvParts Catalog.apc, click Open, and click OK.
11 In the drawing area, click to specify the insertion point for the air handling unit.
12 Press Enter to accept the default rotation of 0.00, and press Enter again to end the command.
Test the duct connectors
When you draw segments using Add grips, some of their properties, such as size and shape, are
determined by the connectors to which you connect the segments.
20 Select the air handling unit, and click the Add grip on one of the power connectors.
21 In the Add Conduits dialog, for System, select Standard.
22 In the drawing, move the cursor to the left, and select a second point to end the conduit segment.
TIP Zoom into the connection points to make it easier to select the connectors using MEP snaps.
23 Verify that you can continue to draft the conduit run by adding more conduit segments.
26 Select the air handling unit, and click the Add grip for the pipe connection.
27 In the Add Pipes dialog, for System, select Standard, and for Routing Preference, select Generic
Threaded Steel.
TIP Zoom into the connection points to make it easier to select the connectors using osnaps.
29 Verify that you can continue to draft the run by adding more pipe segments.
The pipes are displayed as 2-line due to their diameter and the configuration of the Condensate
Drain system.
■ Verify that disconnect markers are not displayed where the segments join the air handling
unit.
■ Click View menu ➤ Show Solution Tips to turn off the markers.
7 Click (Add Part Size), select AHU HG350-HG400 model for Model Block, and press Enter.
8 Double-click the Part Size Name parameter for the second part size, enter AHU HG400, and press
Enter.
9 Click , select AHU HG700 model for Model Block, and press Enter.
10 Verify that AHU HG700 is specified for the Part Size Name parameter for the third part size.
11 Click Generate Blocks.
12 In the Views dialog, for Part Size Name, select AHU HG400, and click OK.
All 2D views are generated for the 3D model block.
■ For AHU HG700, select AHU HG700 symbol for the Symbol Block parameter, and press Enter.
The 3D block and the symbol block were created in the exercise drawing.
15 Click Next, and click Next again to accept the preview image for the part family.
16 On the Connectors tab, edit the placement and the connection types of the connectors for the
2 new part sizes: AHU HG400 and AHU HG700. Use the same values you used for the AHU
HG350 part size in Lesson 1 in Exercise 4: Assigning Connectors to a Block-based MvPart on
page 27.
You assign connectors to the part family and specify the shape and domain for each connector.
Therefore, all part sizes have the same number of connectors predefined with a shape and
domain. The shape and domain of a connector can be changed for the entire part family only;
however, the size and location of connectors can change for each part size. For this air handling
unit MvPart, the size and location of the connectors are the same for each part size.
17 Click Next, and click Finish to accept the properties assigned to the new part sizes.
The part is saved in the catalog with the new part sizes.
In this exercise, you added 2 new part sizes for the air handling unit. Next, you modify the insertion behavior
and property parameters of the air handling unit you created in Lesson 1.
3 Expand Air Handling Units Datasets, select Tutorial Air Handling Unit L02 E02, and click
(Modify Part Size).
4 Change the layer on which the part is inserted when added to a drawing:
■ On the Behavior tab, click the [...] button for Layer Key. (You might need to click the button
twice for the dialog to populate.)
When you added the part to a drawing, it will be placed on the Z-Equipment-G layer. When
working with complex drawings, you can manage layers more effectively if you place all
mechanical equipment on the same layer. For example, when creating an equipment schedule,
turn off all layers except the Z-Equipment-G layer to simplify your selection of equipment for
the schedule.
6 With the part family (Tutorial Air Handling Unit L02 E02) selected, click Edit Properties.
In the Property Editor dialog, you can specify custom data to use as property set information
for each part size. In turn, you can use the property set information to enhance schedules that
you generate during design.
8 In the New Parameter dialog, select Custom Data 1, enter Manufacturer for Name, and click
OK.
A new parameter column is added in the Property Editor dialog.
11 In row 1, double-click the value for Manufacturer, enter Carrier, and click the field directly
beneath the current field. Click OK.
NOTE You can also edit the values of custom properties on the Properties page. Select the part family
in the tree view, click the value, and enter a new attribute value.
(New).
14 In the New Parameter dialog, select Custom Data 2, enter Weight for Name, and then click OK.
A new parameter column is added in the Property Editor dialog.
18 Click OK twice.
The part is saved in the catalog with the new part sizes.
In this lesson, you added 2 new part sizes for the air handling unit. You added one part size using the
geometry of the existing air handling unit. You added a second part size, which has unique geometry, using
a new model block. You also used the Tabbed mode of the block-based building environment to modify the
insertion behavior and property parameters of the air handling unit you created in Lesson 1. Next, you open
the parametric building environment and create a parametric part.
■ Use the order of the folders in the part browser as a guide to the steps involved in the creation process.
■ Do not use the AutoCAD EXPLODE command. Exploding a part deletes the part definition from the
catalog.
■ The Content Builder generates views of your parametric part. The AutoCAD MVIEW command does not
create associative views of your part.
■ Use work planes to control the UCS orientation. Using the AutoCAD UCS command does not associate
the current plane with your part.
■ Use a minimum number of points. Reusing points is less confusing and helps in constraining the model.
■ Use both constraints and dimensions. Some constraint combinations may distort unconstrained features
of the model. If that happens, delete the last constraint and consider using a dimension or a different
constraint combination.
■ Use Content Builder dimensions. AutoCAD dimensions are not parametric and cannot control the size,
the shape, or the position of part content.
■ Dimension large features before small features. To minimize distortion, define larger features that have
an overall bearing on the model. Dimensioning small features first might restrict overall size. Delete or
undo a dimension if the model shape is distorted.
■ Define shape before size. By applying constraints before dimensions, your model shape is less likely to
become distorted.
■ Add constraints as needed to define the model shape. By determining model dependencies before applying
constraints, you can often use a single constraint to define the shape of more than one feature. Use a
minimum number of constraints to avoid distorted models.
■ When using calculated values for model parameters, be aware that calculated values are not available in
the part Add Size filter.
Launch the Content Builder and open the parametric building environment
1 Verify that the Content Tools Tutorial profile is the current profile.
If you have not yet created a Content Tools Tutorial profile, see Creating a Tutorial Profile and
Tutorial Shortcut on page 2 before beginning this lesson.
4 Verify that the Tutorial Pipe Catalog is selected, and click (New Chapter).
Parts must be added to catalog chapters, which are equivalent to catalog folders. Catalog chapters
organize and store part families and individual part sizes. You can add a chapter to a catalog or
to another chapter.
5 In the New Chapter dialog, enter Tees for Name, and click OK.
The part description displays the value you entered in the New Part dialog. The part domain
displays the value you selected for Part Domain in the Getting Started dialog. The domain defines
the family of parts, such as duct components, pipe components, cable tray components, conduit
components, or MvPart components. The values for part description and domain cannot be
changed in the part browser.
12 Click (Save Part Family) on the part browser toolbar to save the part family.
IMPORTANT You must use the Save Part Family icon on the part browser toolbar instead of the Save
command on the File menu in order to save the full set of files that defines the part in the catalog.
In this exercise, you specified the part configuration to define part behavior of the parametric tee. Next, you
define a work plane on which to begin modeling your parametric part.
dialog, browse to Tutorial Pipe Catalog\Tees Datasets\Tutorial Tee L03 E02. Click (Modify Part Size).
3 In the Create Work Plane dialog, click Top, and click OK.
The Top Plane is created in Work Planes and is represented by a 750 unit x 750 unit square in
the modeling area. The square is displayed to help you visualize the work plane. The actual work
plane has no boundaries. You do not need to keep your model geometry within the 750 x 750
square to construct a valid model.
Add geometry
9 Repeat steps 6 through 9 to add a second line, entering a start point of 375,375 and an end point
of 750,375.
In subsequent steps, this line is referred to as segment 2.
TIP Creating the model using 3 line segments instead of 2 gives the model more flexibility for
modification in the future. For example, you could change the angle of one or both branches to an
angle other than 90 degrees.
11 To help control parametric resizing, make the center point a fixed point:
■ In the part browser, expand Top Plane.
■ Expand Geometry.
The geometry of your model is displayed in the same order you created it; therefore, the
second point is the center point.
Add constraints
12 In the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and click Add Constraints ➤ Perpendicular.
13 At the Select first geometry prompt, select segment 1 in the modeling area.
14 At the Select second geometry prompt, select segment 3.
15 Repeat steps 13 through 15 to add a perpendicular constraint between segments 2 and 3.
16 In the part browser, expand Constraints.
Notice that 2 perpendicular constraints have been added to the existing coincident constraints.
Coincident constraints were created when you added the 3 line segments, each of which is
constrained by 2 points.
NOTE By constraining the part in this way, only the outermost points are free to move, and their
remaining movement is restricted to a collinear path. When you add constraints, the Content Builder
displays messages that indicate the degree of freedom remaining in the part. The degree of freedom
is the maximum number of remaining constraints you can apply to the model. Using fewer than the
maximum number of constraints is adequate for most parts. A rule of thumb is to use a minimal set
of constraints and dimensions to achieve the parametric behavior required for your part.
Add dimensions
■ At the Select first geometry prompt, select the left point of segment 1 as shown in the
illustration below.
TIP For best results, select the X that marks the point, rather than the center of the point itself.
The center of the point might be too close to other model geometry for you to select it cleanly.
Use care when selecting points, zooming in and out as necessary.
■ At the Select second geometry prompt, select the fixed point in the center of the model.
The part length resizes because the dimension controls the actual length of the line. The free
point on the end of segment 1 moves to adjust to the new length.
18 Repeat step 17 to add a horizontal dimension to segment 2 and a vertical dimension to segment
3. Enter 250 for each of the dimension values.
Dimensions are added for the 3 tee segments. Next, you add circular profiles to use in creating
cylinder shapes for the tee. By adding the cylinders, you make the tee a 3D model that represents
a valid part.
Add profiles
19 In the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and click Add Profile ➤ Circular.
20 At the Select center point prompt, select a point outside the work plane.
21 At the Select radius prompt, enter 75 and press Enter.
The circular profile is added so that the profile geometry can be applied to tee segments in a
later step. Neither the location of the profile in the modeling area nor the size of the radius is
22 Repeat steps 20 through 22 to add a second circular profile with a radius of 50.
The second circular profile is added.
Next, you hide the dimensions to simplify the selection of model components as you complete
the 3D model.
30 Repeat steps 27 through 30 to add a path to segment 2 using the larger of the 2 circular profiles.
31 Add a path to segment 3 using the smaller of the 2 circular profiles.
Swept paths are added to segments 2 and 3 to complete your 3D model.
dialog, browse to Tutorial Pipe Catalog\Tees Datasets\Tutorial Tee L03 E03. Click (Modify Part Size).
Add connectors
1 Verify that the Content Tools Tutorial profile is the current profile.
2 In the part browser, right-click Connections, and click Add Connection.
3 Move the cursor over the model to view the valid connector locations.
4 Hover the cursor over the endpoint of segment 1 until a circle displays at the connector location,
and select the connector location.
5 Press Enter to accept 1 as the connector number.
6 At the Pick dimension position prompt, select a location near the larger of the 2 circular profiles.
Connector 1 is added to the endpoint of segment 1, and the dimension is added to the appropriate
profile.
NOTE The location of Connector 1 determines the X axis of the part at the time of insertion.
7 Repeat steps 2 through 5 to add a connector to the endpoint of segment 2 with a connector
number of 2.
NOTE Connector 2 uses the same circular profile as Connector 1; therefore, the software does not
prompt you to select a dimension location.
8 Add Connector 3 to the endpoint of segment 3, and select a location near the smaller of the 2
circular profiles for the dimension location.
10 Because you have not yet configured the connectors and the part sizing behavior, click No to
keep the part hidden.
Configure the connectors
16 In the part browser, under Modeling, right-click Model Parameters, and click Edit.
Each parameter of the model is displayed for editing. D1, D2, and D3 are the diameters of the
3 connectors. LenA1, LenA2, and LenA3 are the lengths of the 3 segments. First, you refine the
descriptions for the segment length parameters for clarity.
17 Double-click the description for LenA1, enter Length of Segment 1, and press Enter.
18 Edit the descriptions for LenA2 and LenA3, entering Length of Segment 2 and Length of Segment
3, respectively.
By default, most equations are numerical values that represent the current size in the model. The equations
for both D1 and D3 are numerical values based on the profiles you used to model the part. D2 is an equation
that is set equal to D1 because you used the same profile for connectors 1 and 2 when you modeled the part.
By making D3 equal to D1, all 3 of the connectors are restricted to the same size.
19 Still in the Model Parameters dialog, double-click the Equation value for D3, enter D1, and press
Enter.
Next, you restrict the sizing of the tee segments.
20 Double-click the equation value for LenA2, enter LenA1, and press Enter.
By making LenA2 equal to LenA1, as the length of segment 1 changes size, the length of segment
2 changes size to match.
Any equations that remain as numerical values can be “sized” using a table of part sizes. In your
model, this means that you can define a size combination for D1, LenA1, and LenA3, and the
remaining parameters are sized automatically. You can modify the numerical values in the
Model Parameters dialog to rescale the model according to the size restrictions you defined.
21 Modify the Equation values by entering 125 for D1, 200 for LenA1, and 150 for LenA3.
22 Click Close.
23 In the part browser, under Top Plane, right-click one of the Circular Profile nodes, and click
Visible to turn off visibility.
24 Repeat the previous step to turn off visibility for the second circular profile.
25 Under Dimensions, right-click D1, and click Visible.
26 Repeat the previous step to turn off visibility for dimension D3.
The circular profiles and associated dimensions are hidden. Only the finished model is displayed.
dialog, browse to Tutorial Pipe Catalog\Tees Datasets\Tutorial Tee L03 E04. Click (Modify Part Size).
NOTE The D3 and LenA2 parameters that you set using equations in the Model Parameters dialog
are assigned a value of Calculation in the Size Parameters dialog, and they cannot be edited. To
modify parameters with calculated values, you need to use Model Parameters.
By default, the value of Data Storage for the D1 parameter is Table. Using a table for data storage
requires entering parameter values in a table where each row represents a specific part size. If
you change the data storage value for an actual diameter parameter, you should specify the
same data storage value for the corresponding nominal diameter parameter.
5 Note that the value of Visible for D1, D2, and D3 is False. Visible parameters are available during
part selection. By making the actual diameters invisible in the part filter, part selection is based
on nominal diameter values.
6 Select Values in the toolbar.
NOTE The Table and List data storage types activate the (New) icon. When Table is selected,
clicking New adds a new row. When List is selected, clicking New adds a new cell to the list.
10 For the 4 part sizes, enter the following values for ND1 and for D1:
Part ND1 Value D1 Value
Size
Name
1 100 110
2 150 160
3 200 225
4 250 280
To add a value, double-click the field, enter the value, and then select a different field. You can
also use the Copy and Paste commands on the context menu.
Notice that the ND2 and ND3 values are updated to reflect the new ND1 values. Because ND2
and ND3 are calculations that are set equal to ND1, changing the size of ND1 causes the same
change to ND2 and ND3.
The D1, D2, and D3 values are edited to specify various connector sizes for the part sizes you
are creating. Next, you edit the segment lengths.
11 In row 1, double-click the LenA1 value, enter 200, and select a different field.
Notice that the LenA2 value is updated to reflect the new LenA1 value. Because LenA2 is a
calculation that is set equal to LenA1, changing the size of LenA1 causes the same change to
LenA2.
12 In row 4, double-click the LenA1 value, enter 300, and select a different field.
13 Repeat the process you just used to enter LenA3 values of 200 in row 1 and 300 in row 4.
The LenA1, LenA2, and LenA3 values are edited to specify various segment lengths for the part
sizes you are creating.
14 For all 4 of the parts, enter a value of .00001 for CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 (Connector Engagement
Length).
NOTE When you add a fitting to a drawing, the layer is determined by the connecting objects; therefore, you do
not specify a layer key for a fitting during the part creation process.
Dataset
To access the dataset that corresponds to this exercise, open Content Builder, and in the Getting Started
dialog, browse to Tutorial Pipe Catalog\Tees Datasets\Tutorial Tee L03 E05. Click (Modify Part Size).
Exercise 5: Generating a Preview Image and Defining Insertion Behavior for a Parametric Fitting | 63
3 In the Bitmap Preview dialog, under Generate View, click to generate a preview image using
the SW Isometric view.
NOTE Alternatively, you can create an image of the part before using the Content Builder. If you
create your own bitmap image, you can click Browser in the Bitmap Preview dialog to navigate to
the image.
4 Click OK.
Define trim lengths
7 Click OK, and in the confirmation dialog, click OK again to confirm setting the connection type
of all connectors to the value of Connector 1.
Autolayout Data is added to Modeling in the part browser, and trim length points are displayed
on the model in the modeling area.
10 In the part browser under Modeling, expand Autolayout Data, right-click Layout Data, and click
Add Trim Length.
If Autolayout Data is not visible in the part browser, expand Modeling.
NOTE For best results, select the cyan circle that surrounds the point, rather than the center of
the point itself. The center of the point might be too close to other model geometry for you to
select it cleanly. Use care when selecting points, zooming in and out as necessary.
■ At the Select end of trim length 1 prompt, select the endpoint of segment 1.
12 Repeat steps 9 and 10 to specify the trim length for segment 2. For the start of the trim length,
select the fixed point in the center of the model. For the end of the trim length, select the
endpoint of segment 2.
13 Add a trim length for segment 3, selecting the fixed point in the center for the start, and the
endpoint of segment 3 for the end.
Trim length lines are displayed between the selected points.
14 In the part browser, right-click Layout Data, and click Select Placement Point.
15 At the Select a placement point prompt, select the cyan circle that surrounds the fixed point at
the center of the model.
A placement point is displayed at the selected location. This is the location at which connecting
pipe segments would intersect if they were extended along their logical paths. The placement
Exercise 5: Generating a Preview Image and Defining Insertion Behavior for a Parametric Fitting | 65
point is used as the insertion point for the tee fitting when it is added to a drawing during
autolayout using the Add Pipe command.
dialog, browse to Tutorial Pipe Catalog\Tees Datasets\Tutorial Tee L03 E06. Click (Modify Part Size).
3 In the Size Parameters dialog, select row 1, and click (Preview Part).
7 With the Parametric Object Viewer open, select row 2 in the Size Parameters dialog.
The next part size is displayed in the Viewer.
8 Inspect the model from various viewpoints to verify that the model appears sound.
9 Repeat steps 7 and 8 for the remaining part sizes.
If your inspection revealed problems, such as segments that joined improperly, you would make
the necessary modifications and inspect the part sizes again, repeating this process until all of
the part sizes appeared sound.
If the validation check had detected errors in your model, this would have been indicated on
the status bar.
14 Click Close.
Save the part
6 Generate a preview image, create a schematic symbol, and define the insertion behaviors of the part.
After you finish the model, you generate a preview image for the part by taking a snapshot of the model.
For MvParts, you also create a schematic symbol. Lastly, you specify the insertion behavior that controls
how the part is placed in a drawing.
4 Verify that Tutorial MvParts Catalog is selected, and click (New Chapter).
Parts must be added to catalog chapters, which are equivalent to catalog folders. Catalog chapters
organize and store part families and individual part sizes. You can add a chapter to a catalog or
to another chapter.
5 In the New Chapter dialog, for Name, enter Air Terminals, and click OK.
The Air Terminals chapter is added to the tree in the part catalog browser.
IMPORTANT When you select MvPart for Part Domain, both the New Block Part and the New
Parametric Part icons are activated. Be sure to click the New Parametric Part icon.
7 In the New Part dialog, enter Tutorial Air Terminal for Name, and press Tab.
8 Accept the default part description, and click OK.
By default, the part description is the same as the part name unless a different description is
entered. The part description applies to the part family and is displayed during part selection.
You defined the domain as MvPart in the Getting Started dialog and the description as Tutorial
Air Terminal in the New Part dialog. The domain defines the family of parts, such as duct
components, pipe components, cable tray components, conduit components, or MvPart
components. The values for the description and the domain cannot be changed in the part
browser.
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L04 E02. Click (Modify
Part Size).
5 To add a work plane for the bottom face of the diffuser, right-click Work Planes, and click Add
Work Plane.
6 Click Offset, enter Offset Bottom for Name, and click OK.
7 In the modeling area, select the top work plane for the reference work plane, enter 300 for the
offset distance, and press Enter.
The Offset Bottom work plane is created below the Top Plane work plane.
11 To create the top face of the diffuser, in the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and click Add
Profile ➤ Rectangular.
12 In the modeling area, specify opposite points for the first corner and the second corner of the
rectangle.
A rectangular profile for the top face is created and is added to Top Plane in the part browser.
A Constraints node, which includes the default constraints of the rectangular profile, is also
added to Top Plane.
13 To create the bottom face of the diffuser, in the part browser, right-click Offset Bottom, and
click Add Profile ➤ Rectangular.
A rectangular profile for the bottom face is created and is added to Offset Bottom in the part
browser. A Constraints node, which includes the default constraints of the rectangular profile,
is also added to Offset Bottom.
15 In the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and click Add Geometry ➤ Point.
16 In the modeling area, select a point near the center of the top-face rectangular profile, and press
Enter.
17 In the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and click Add Constraints ➤ Equal Distance.
18 In the modeling area, specify the pairs of geometric constraints:
■ For the first pair, select the point in the center of the top face, and then select the left edge
of the top-face rectangular profile.
■ For the second pair, select the point in the center of the top face, and then select the right
edge of the top-face rectangular profile.
19 Repeat steps 17 and 18 to constrain the upper and lower edges of the top face.
The model of the top face is updated to the specified constraints.
NOTE When you add constraints, the Content Builder displays messages that indicate the degree of
freedom remaining in the part. The degree of freedom is the maximum number of remaining
constraints you can apply to the model. A rule of thumb is to use a minimal set of constraints and
dimensions to define the shape and achieve the parametric behavior required for your part.
20 To ensure the alignment of the top and bottom faces, in the part browser, right-click Offset
Bottom, and click Add Geometry ➤ Point Reference.
21 Select the existing point in the center of the top-face rectangular profile.
22 Substituting Offset Bottom for Top Plane, repeat steps 17 through 19 to constrain all 4 of the
edges of the bottom face, using the reference point in the center of the bottom face.
The model of the bottom face is updated to the specified constraints.
26 To add the lip of the diffuser, in the part browser, right-click Modifiers, and click Add Extrusion.
27 Select one of the corner points of the bottom-face profile.
TIP To select the bottom-face profile while the transition modifier is displayed, select a corner point
of the profile rather than one of the edges.
28 In the Extrusion Modifier dialog, for Type, select Blind, and for Distance, enter 25.
29 Select Flip, and click OK.
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L04 E03. Click (Modify
Part Size).
Add a connector
1 Verify that the Content Tools Tutorial profile is the current profile.
2 Right-click Object Snap on the application status bar, and click Settings.
3 In Drafting Settings ➤ General, select Node, and click OK.
4 To add the flex duct connector to the top face of the diffuser, in the part browser, right-click
Top Plane, and click Add Profile ➤ Circular.
TIP If the Top Plane node is not visible in the part browser, expand Modeling and Work Planes.
5 In the modeling area, use the Node osnap to select the center point. Select the point in the
center of the top face of the diffuser, enter 30 for the radius, and then press Enter.
6 In the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and click Add Constraints ➤ Concentric.
7 In the modeling area, select the circular profile for the first geometry, and select the point in
the center of the top face for the second geometry.
A concentric constraint is added to the Top Plane Constraints.
11 To add a connector, in the part browser, right-click Connections, and click Add Connection.
You are prompted to select the connector location. As you move the cursor around in the
modeling area, it snaps to 4 possible locations for a connector: the top and bottom faces of the
diffuser, and the top and bottom of the flex duct connector.
12 Select the center point of the top of the flex duct connector, and press Enter to accept the default
value for the connector number.
13 Select a location above and to the right of the model to place the dimension for the diameter
of the flex duct connector.
A diameter dimension (D1) is added to the model (and to Size Parameters in the part browser).
A connector is added to Connections.
14 To define the domain and the type of the connection for the connector, in the part browser,
expand Connections, right-click Connector 1, and click Edit.
15 In the Connector Properties dialog, for Domain, select Duct.
Connector domains are dependent on the specified shape of the modifier to which the connector
is attached.
NOTE Connectors are assigned an undefined type by default. An undefined connection type creates
a valid connection between all types of connectors when inserted in a drawing.
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L04 E04. Click (Modify
Part Size).
4 To add a dimension for the width of the top face, in the part browser, right-click Top Plane, and
click Add Dimension ➤ Distance.
NOTE For constant parameter values, you can define a constant dimension. Alternatively, you can
choose not to add a dimension and use the default value based on the actual size of the geometry.
When no dimensions are added, the parameter and its value are not displayed during part size
selection.
5 In the modeling area, select the points at the upper-left and upper-right corners of the top face,
and specify a location to place the dimension.
A length dimension (LenA1) is placed in the model and is added to Model Parameters in the
part browser. The value of LenA1 is a default value based on the model geometry.
6 To add a dimension for the length of the top face, in the part browser, right-click Top Plane,
and click Add Dimension ➤ Perpendicular Distance.
7 In the modeling area, select the upper-left and lower-left corner points of the top face for the
geometry, and select the top edge of the top face for relative line.
9 Repeat steps 4 through 7 to add height and width dimensions to the bottom face on the Offset
Bottom plane.
Length dimensions (LenA3 and LenA4) are placed in the model and are added to Model
Parameters in the part browser. The value of LenA3 and LenA4 are default values based on the
model geometry.
10 To dimension the modifiers, in the part browser, right-click each of the modifiers, and click
Visible to turn on visibility.
11 Click View menu ➤ 3D Views ➤ SW Isometric.
In the modeling area, the model is displayed in a 3D isometric view, and the modifiers have
been turned on.
14 To define the height of the lip, in the part browser, right-click Model Dimensions, and click
Add Distance.
15 In the modeling area, select the lip extrusion modifier, and specify a location to place the
dimension.
A length dimension (LenB2) is placed in the model and is added to Model Parameters in the
part browser. The value of LenB2 is a default value based on the height distance of the modifier.
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L04 E05. Click (Modify
Part Size).
3 In the Size Parameters dialog, for Data Storage, select Table for the LenA1, LenA2, LenA3, and
LenA4 parameters.
Changing the data storage type of these parameters to Table allows you to add a table of sizes
for the lengths and widths of the top and bottom faces of the diffuser.
NOTE Calculated values set in the model cannot be edited in the Size Parameters dialog. To change
these values you must edit the model.
5 To add a new part size, click 1 in the table, and click (New) on the toolbar.
6 For each part size, double-click the LenA1, LenA2, LenA3, and LenA4 parameters, and enter the
values shown.
TIP You can cut and paste values from other part families using standard Microsoft® Windows cut
and paste functionality (Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V). Open another part in the Content Builder, select the size
parameter you want to copy (Ctrl+C), and then paste (Ctrl+V) the selected values in the desired
parameter of your part. You can also create a list of values in Microsoft® Excel, select the list of values
you want to add, and then paste the values in the desired parameter of your part. You can also cut
and paste values from the Catalog Editor.
7 Double-click the LenB1 value in row 1, enter 100, and press Enter. Click OK.
LenB1 is the height of the flex duct connector. The LenB1 parameter has a storage type of
constant; therefore, the LenB1 parameter is updated for all part sizes.
8 In the part browser, expand Model Parameters, right-click WPOf1, and click Edit.
9 In the Model Parameters dialog, to add the size of the transition between the top and bottom
faces, double-click the Equation value for WPOf1, and click Calculator. Enter 0.5*LenA4, and
click OK. Click Close.
The model is updated with the new parameters values.
11 In the Size Parameters dialog, double-click the value cell of the PrtSN parameter for 1.
The Calculation Assistant dialog is displayed.
■ Click the value for Part Size Name, and enter x at the end.
■ Click the value for Part Size Name, and enter mm Louver Face Ceiling Diffuser.
14 Click OK.
The part size name value is updated for each part.
15 Click OK, and click (Save Part Family) on the part browser toolbar.
16 In the validation message box, click No to keep the part hidden and prevent the part from being
used in layouts.
In this exercise, you created individual part sizes by adding table-based parameter values to the air terminal
model. You added one row of values to the table for each part size you wanted to add. You also specified
calculated values to create unique names for the individual part sizes.
Exercise 6: Generating a Preview Image and Defining Insertion Behavior for a Parametric MvPart | 87
This exercise shows how to generate a preview image for the MvPart by taking a snapshot of the model, how
to assign a schematic symbol to the part, and how to specify insertion behaviors and other advanced options
for the part.
Insertion behaviors for a parametric MvPart are defined by specifying whether the part anchors to or breaks
into another part. When creating a parametric MvPart, you select either the Anchor To Part or the Break
Into Part option. You can select both options to be prompted when placing the part in a drawing. You can
also enable the Custom Part Sizing Flag to allow the creation of custom sizes that do not exist in the catalog,
and you can specify a layer key for the part.
Dataset
To access the dataset that corresponds to this exercise, open Content Builder, and in the Getting Started
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L04 E06. Click (Modify
Part Size).
TIP As you select a view, the preview image window in the dialog is updated. This allows you to view
all the available preview images for the part before selection.
You can also click Browse to navigate to and select a predefined bitmap image. Predefined images
must be 200 x 200 pixels and saved with 256 colors.
4 Click OK.
Assign a schematic symbol
5 In the part browser, expand Modeling, right-click Symbol and Annotation plane, and click
Visible.
Although this makes the plane visible in the drawing area, its position on the Z axis in the World
Coordinate System (WCS) is high above the WCS origin, so you might need to zoom out to
view the plane.
7 To the right of the model, draw the geometry for the schematic symbol using AutoCAD lines
as shown.
To ensure that the symbol size is correct when inserting the part into a drawing, draw the symbol
relative to a unit scale of 1. For example, draw the symbol 10 mm x 10 mm in size.
8 In the part browser, expand Symbol and Annotation Plane, right-click Design Blocks, and click
Add Schematic Block.
9 At the Select work plane prompt, press Enter to orient the symbol along the Symbol and
Annotation plane.
10 Select the geometry of the schematic symbol, and press Enter.
You can select any geometry except parametric geometry created using Content Builder, which
is filtered from the selection set.
11 Enter n (No) to keep the source geometry in the model, and press Enter.
In the part browser, a design block that represents the schematic block is added to Design Blocks.
17 In the modeling area, using osnaps, select the center of the flex duct connector.
A placement point is displayed at the selected location.
Exercise 6: Generating a Preview Image and Defining Insertion Behavior for a Parametric MvPart | 89
Exercise 7:Validating and Saving a Parametric MvPart
This exercise shows how to perform a visual inspection of each part size using the Parametric Object Viewer.
It also shows how to validate the model to detect any errors that make the part unusable, and how to save
the valid model. When you click the Validate icon on the toolbar, the status bar displays a description of
the validation status. A traffic light shows green when the part is valid and red when the part is invalid. A
Details button provides a list of warnings and/or errors found in your model. You must correct all errors
before you can save the part and add it to a drawing.
After you complete your 3D model, you should perform a visual inspection of each part size using the
Parametric Object Viewer. After verifying that each part size appears sound, you must validate and save the
model. Validation checks the model and detects any errors that make the part unusable or invalid.
Dataset
To access the dataset that corresponds to this exercise, open Content Builder, and in the Getting Started
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L04 E07. Click (Modify
Part Size).
3 In the Size Parameters dialog, select row 1, and click (Preview Part).
The Parametric Object Viewer opens with the air terminal displayed as a wireframe model in
Top view.
6 With the Parametric Object Viewer open, select row 2 in the Size Parameters dialog.
The next part size is displayed in the viewer.
7 Inspect the model from various viewpoints to verify that the model appears sound.
8 Repeat steps 6 and 7 for the remaining part sizes.
If your inspection revealed problems, such as segments that joined improperly, you would make
the necessary modifications, and inspect the part sizes again, repeating this process until all of
the part sizes appeared sound.
13 Click Close.
Save the part
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L05 E01. Click (Modify
Part Size).
4 In the Size Parameters dialog, select row 1, click in the D1 parameter, and click (Edit) on
the part browser toolbar.
5 In the Edit Values dialog, click Add, enter 125, and press Enter.
6 Click Add, enter 200, and press Enter.
7 Click OK.
8 Double-click each of the D1 parameters, and notice the list of available connector sizes for each
part size.
13 Inspect the model from various viewpoints to verify that the model appears sound.
dialog, browse to Tutorial MvParts Catalog\Air Terminals Datasets\Tutorial Air Terminal L05 E02. Click (Modify
Part Size).
4 In the Save Part Family As dialog, select the Air Terminals chapter.
NOTE If you did not create an Air Terminals chapter in Lesson 4, select Tutorial MvParts Catalog,
and click New Chapter. Enter Air Terminals for Name, and click OK.
5 For Part Name, enter a unique name, and for Description, enter a description of the part.
6 Click OK.
The new part is opened in the Content Builder.
7 In the part browser, right-click Size Parameters, and click Edit Configuration.
8 In the Size Parameters dialog, click (New) on the Size Parameters toolbar.
12 In row 1, double-click the Mat parameter, enter steel with baked enamel finish, and press Enter.
The Mat parameter has a storage type of constant; therefore, the Mat parameter is updated for
all part sizes.
13 Click OK.
Validate and save the new part
97
If the CAD Manager menu is not available on the menu bar, click Window
menu ➤ Pulldowns ➤ CAD Manager Pulldown.
The Catalog Editor is opened with no part catalog selected. Next, you open a part catalog.
NOTE If the Application Data folder is hidden, use Windows® Explorer to change the display options
for the folder: Click Tools menu ➤ Folder Options, and then click the View tab. Under Advanced
settings, for Hidden files and folders, select Show hidden files and folders, and click OK.
NOTE If you are using AutoCAD MEP in a network environment, the catalogs might be in a different
location. Contact your network administrator or CAD manager for the catalog location.
5 Position the cursor over the toolbar icons at the top of the Catalog Editor window to display
tooltips explaining their functions. The availability of the icons depends on your current selection.
6 In the left pane, expand Mechanical ➤ Air Terminals ➤ Diffusers.
The left pane of the Catalog Editor organizes the catalog into a structured tree view that you
can navigate by expanding and collapsing the chapters in the tree. You can add, delete, copy,
paste, and save part data in the left pane. As you select items, the right pane is updated
accordingly.
When you select a part in the left pane, the associated part data is displayed in the right pane,
and a rendered 3-dimensional (3D) image of the part is displayed in the preview window. The
dimensions shown in the image depict the part parameters defined in the part model.
To view part information, you can resize the Catalog Editor window as well as the left and right
panes.
9 In the right pane, scroll to the right to see the parameter names.
In this exercise, you opened and explored the Catalog Editor. Next, you create a new part catalog.
IMPORTANT Do not accept the default location for Catalog Root Directory. If you do, the new
catalog will be created within the existing Duct catalog. Creating the new catalog as a nested
catalog will prevent you from completing this tutorial.
The Tutorial Duct catalog is created and opened in the Catalog Editor.
3 In the left pane, right-click Tutorial Duct, and click Insert ➤ Chapter.
4 Enter Round (for the chapter name), and press Enter.
The Round chapter is added.
Next, you open a second session of the Catalog Editor to simplify the process of copying and pasting chapters
between 2 catalogs.
5 Restore the AutoCAD MEP 2009 application window so it is visible.
6 In the application window, click CAD Manager menu ➤ Content Editing ➤ Catalog Editor.
10 Restore the first session of the Catalog Editor, and arrange the 2 Catalog Editor windows
side-by-side for easy viewing.
Customize the new catalog by copying and pasting existing content
11 In the left pane of the Catalog Editor session that has the Duct (Global) catalog opened, expand
Round, right-click Elbows, and click Copy.
12 In the left pane of the Catalog Editor session that has the Tutorial Duct catalog opened, right-click
Round, and click Paste.
NOTE When you copy and paste a chapter, the Catalog Editor copies and pastes the entire chapter,
including its part families.
13 In the Catalog Editor - File Save dialog, click Overwrite All Existing Files with New Ones.
Depending on the regeneration of the catalog, you might get an overwrite prompt more than
once. Each time you are prompted, click Overwrite All Existing Files with New Ones.
14 In the left pane of the Catalog Editor session that has the Duct (Global) catalog opened, right-click
Rectangular, and click Copy.
NOTE The speed of your system determines the amount of time needed to copy the Rectangular
chapter and to paste it into the Tutorial Duct Catalog in the next step. No hourglass is displayed
while the copy/paste operation is in progress.
15 In the left pane of the Catalog Editor session that has the Tutorial Duct catalog opened, right-click
Tutorial Duct, and click Paste.
16 When you are prompted to confirm the overwriting of files, click Overwrite All Existing Files
with New Ones.
Depending on the regeneration of the catalog, you may get an overwrite prompt more than
once. Each time you are prompted, click Overwrite All Existing Files with New Ones.
20 On the Catalog Editor toolbar, click (Save), and keep the catalog open for the next lesson.
IMPORTANT Be sure to save the Tutorial Duct Catalog. You will use it in the next lesson.
21 In the Catalog Editor session that has the Duct (Global) catalog opened, click to close the
session.
In this lesson, you explored the Catalog Editor and created a new part catalog. You use this catalog as the
basis for your work in the next lesson.
5 Right-click the new part family (Rectangular Duct Radius 2W Elbow_gbm 1), and click Rename.
6 Enter Rectangular Duct Radius 3W Elbow, and press Enter.
7 In the right pane, double-click the current value for Description, enter Rectangular Duct Radius
3W Elbow, and press Enter.
The parameter values for the part family are displayed in a table view in the right pane.
9 In the right pane, scroll to RC (radius of curvature), double-click 2.0 (the current value) to make
the field editable, enter 3.0, and press Enter.
13 Scroll to the R (radius) parameter, and note the calculated value. If you compare this value to
the value for Rectangular Duct Radius 2W Elbow_gbm (the part you copied), you will notice
that the calculated value for the new part has been updated to reflect the change in value for
the RC parameter.
TIP To access the new part size during part selection, be sure to load the modified part catalog in
your drawing. For more information about specifying the default part catalogs for a drawing, see the
AutoCAD MEP Help.
In this exercise, you created a new part in the Catalog Editor by copying an existing part and modifying its
parameters. Next, you add a size to a part.
NOTE To add a size to an MvPart, such as equipment, use the Content Builder. You can also use the Content
Builder to add a size to a fitting.
Dataset
My Documents\Autodesk\My Projects\Content Tools\Tutorial Pipe Catalog L07 E02\Tutorial Pipe Catalog
L07 E02.apc
NOTE For information on how to open a catalog in the Catalog Editor, see Exercise 1: Opening a
Part in the Catalog Editor on page 97 in Lesson 6.
4 In the new row, double-click the current value for the D1 parameter, enter 300, and press Tab.
To add another part size, repeat the process you just used to add and configure a new row. To
In this exercise, you added a size to a pipe part by adding new parameter values to a basic table. Next, you
add web-based content from a manufacturer’s web site to a part catalog.
NOTE For information on how to open a catalog in the Catalog Editor, see Exercise 1: Opening a
Part in the Catalog Editor on page 97 in Lesson 6.
5 NOTE Before performing this part of the exercise, verify that you have write access to the Tutorial
MvParts Catalog folder and its contents.
7 Arrange the web page and the Catalog Editor for easy viewing.
8 Click SampleTestMvPart ➤ Fans ➤ Direct Drive Fans_gbm.
10 Press the Space Bar to activate the control denoted by the (i-drop icon).
11 Click the part image, and drag the part into the Fans chapter of the Tutorial MvParts catalog in
the Catalog Editor.
NOTE To access the new part size during part selection, be sure to load the modified part catalog
in your drawing. For information about specifying the default part catalogs for a drawing, see the
AutoCAD MEP Help.
In this lesson, you worked with the Catalog Editor to a create a new duct smooth-radius elbow with a unique
radius of curvature. You also added a part size for a pipe component by adding new parameter values to a
basic table. Finally, you added web-based content to a part catalog using i-drop.