ConstructiVision User Manual¶

Note

This document was converted from the original CSV Manual.pdf (v10.x, circa 2004) distributed with ConstructiVision. It is a legacy reference maintained for historical accuracy. Some contact information, system requirements, and procedures are outdated.

Introduction¶

Welcome to ConstructiVision! This release continues the high performance tradition of previous versions of ConstructiVision, with a host of new features. In addition to improved Reference and Help sections, several sample Drawings are included to assist you in becoming familiar with Program Operation. By opening and editing these Drawings, you will quickly learn how to use ConstructiVision to your best advantage. Use the context-sensitive Help sections in your day-to-day use of ConstructiVision. Convenient links to all Topic Headings are available in the Table of Contents.

ConstructiVision is a powerful program with many options. However, it is possible to make use of ConstructiVision by knowing only a few simple commands. Computer literacy (other than basic navigational skills) and proficiency in AutoCAD are not required. Basic computer skills and proficiency in reading blueprints make it possible to begin detailing even the most intricate Tilt-up Panels and creating basic Site Drawings. To maximize the use of ConstructiVision’s more advanced features, a good working knowledge of AutoCAD is recommended. Check with your AutoCAD representative for information on AutoCAD training.

ConstructiVision’s unique method of storing Panel definitions within the Panel drawing makes it possible to incorporate design changes and modifications in minutes. This storage method also permits any user on any computer to load and edit the drawings using AutoCAD’s internal commands - with or without ConstructiVision. Please note that any modifications placed on ConstructiVision’s proprietary Layers (except Custom and Custom_Dim)* will be erased the next time the drawing is edited with ConstructiVision. Even if the user issues the “ERASE” “ALL” command, and “SAVE”s the drawing, the Panel will be re-created accurately the next time it is edited with ConstructiVision.

It is recommended that you first read this Introduction and the Installation procedure, then perform the installation and use the Sample Drawings to become proficient with ConstructiVision before you begin your first Project.

*IMPORTANT NOTICE: Two AutoCAD Layers are provided for you to create Custom Objects that you may need to see in your Drawings - CUSTOM and CUSTOM_DIM. These are intended for Detail Views of objects too small to see in the main Drawing or informative text that you might wish to include. It is highly recommended that you DO NOT draw Graphical Objects that are intended to modify the structure or geometry of the Panel on these Layers. Such Objects WILL NOT be included in the Data Files exported for Lift Engineering and MAY RESULT IN PANEL FAILURE DURING TILT-UP. Virtually any shape or type of Panel can be created with simple ConstructiVision commands. If there is something you need that you don’t know how to do and can’t find in the Help File or Manual - call Tech Support.

Conventions¶

Fonts

This manual follows several conventions for clarity and to help you find information quickly. Text that you would see on your computer screen is shown here in an “MS Sans Serif” size 8, Black, regular typeface. Topic Headings are size 14 Maroon, regular. Section Headings are size 10, Navy, bold italic. Links to other topics are size 8 or 10, Green, solid underlined. P o p-u p links to definitions and simple tips or instructions are size 8, Green, dashed underlined. Keywords and other important information are size 8, Black, bold. Recommendations are italicized. STRONG recommendations are capitalized and bold. IMPORTANT recommendations are capitalized, bold, and red [Square Brackets] are used to identify optional or user configurable entries. “Quotes” are used to indicate AutoCAD commands and file names.

Keywords¶

Standard keyword syntax is used throughout the ConstructiVision manual and Help File. Keywords are listed in the Index and may be used as search parameters in the Help File.

Trademarks and Credits¶

ConstructiVision is a registered trademark of ConstructiVision, Inc.

Windows, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000 and Windows NT are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.

AutoCAD is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc.

pcAnywhere is a registered trademark of the Symantec Corporation.

License Agreement¶

This is a legal agreement between you, the end user (either an individual or a legal entity such as a corporation), and ConstructiVision, Inc. If you do not agree to the terms of this License Agreement, promptly return the unopened and unused software package(s) as well as all written materials to ConstructiVision, Inc. for a full refund. By installing, copying or otherwise using this software, you agree to be bound by the terms of this License Agreement.

The software which accompanies this License Agreement, including any images, photographs, video and/or text incorporated into the Software (hereinafter the “Software”), is the property of ConstructiVision, Inc. or its licensors and is protected by United States and other applicable copyright laws, as well as international copyright treaties, other intellectual copyright laws and treaties.

Subject to the limited warranties and other provisions of this License Agreement, use of this software is at your own risk. While ConstructiVision, Inc. continues to own the Software, you will have certain rights to use the Software after you accept this License Agreement. Your rights and obligations regarding the use of this Software are as described in this document.

GRANT OF LICENSE. This LICENSE AGREEMENT grants you the following rights:

Single or Multi User Configuration. Any number of Users may install and use copies of the Software on any number of

· computers within a single organization or end user entity executing this License Agreement. If the Software includes functionality that enables the computer to act as a network server, any number of computers or workstations may access or otherwise utilize the basic network services of that server. The basic network services are more fully described in the printed materials accompanying the Software. · Storage/Network Use. You may also store or install a copy of the computer software portion of the Software on the computer to allow your other computers to use the Software over an internal network, and distribute the Software to your other computers over an internal network. However, you must acquire and dedicate a license for the Software for each computer on which the Software is used or to which it is distributed. A license for the Software may not be shared or used concurrently on different computers. · back-up copies solely for archival purposes.

Hard Copy. You may distribute the drawings and other materials produced by this Software royalty free.

Back-Up Copies. You may make back-up copies of the computer software portion of the Software. You may use the

DESCRIPTION OF OTHER RIGHTS AND LIMITATIONS.

Separation of Components. The Software is licensed as a single product. Its component parts may not be separated for

· use on more than one computer. Software Transfer. You may permanently transfer all of your rights under this License Agreement only as part of a sale · or transfer of the computer, provided you retain no copies, you transfer all of the Software (including all component parts, the media and printed materials, any upgrades, this License Agreement and, if applicable, the Certificate(s) of Authenticity), AND the recipient agrees to the terms of this License Agreement. If the Software is an upgrade, any transfer must include all prior versions of the Software. Termination. Without prejudice to any other rights it may have, ConstructiVision may terminate this License Agreement if you fail to comply with the terms and conditions of this License Agreement. In such event, you must destroy all copies of the Software and all of its component parts.

Copy any of the printed materials or documentation which accompanies the Software; Sublicense, rent or lease any portion of the Software; Reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, modify or translate the Software, or make any attempt to discover the source

You may not: · · · code of the Software, or create derivative works from the Software. Any attempt to duplicate any portion of the Software program shall subject you to criminal sanctions and claims on work produced using this Software. By using this Software you certify that you have read and understand this provision, that you find the provision to be reasonable, and that you agree to be bound by it;

Use a previous version or copy of the Software after you have received a disk replacement set or an upgraded version as a replacement to the prior version. Upon upgrading the Software, all copies of the prior version must be destroyed.

OEM PRODUCT SUPPORT. Product support for the Software is provided by ConstructiVision, Inc. , or its subsidiaries. For product support, please refer to the documentation for the software. Should you have any questions concerning this License Agreement, or if you desire to contact ConstructiVision for any other reason, please refer to the address provided in the documentation the software.
OEM U. S. GOVERNMENT RESTRICTED RIGHTS. The Software and documentation are provided with RESTRICTED RIGHTS. Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252. 227-7013 or subparagraphs (c)(1) and (2) of the Commercial Computer Software-Restricted Rights at 48 CFR 52. 227-19, as applicable. Manufacturer is ConstructiVision Inc. 17010 9th Ave SE, Mill Creek, WA 98012.

ConstructiVision, Inc. and its suppliers retain all rights not expressly granted.

VENUE AND JURISDICTION. This License Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Washington. Purchaser confers jurisdiction upon the State of Washington should any disputes arise. Purchaser agrees that Venue is in the appropriate courts in Washington State.
MODIFICATIONS. This License Agreement may only be modified by a written license addendum or by a written document which has been signed by both you and ConstructiVision, Inc.
AGREEMENT TO BE BOUND. By breaking this seal I certify that I have read this License Agreement for this Software, and agree to be bound by each of the provisions contained herein.

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ THIS LICENSE AGREEMENT, UNDERSTAND IT AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY ITS TERMS AND CONDITIONS. YOU FURTHER AGREE THAT IT IS THE COMPLETE AND EXCLUSIVE STATEMENT OF THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN YOU AND CONSTRUCTIVISION, INC. WHICH SUPERSEDES ANY PROPOSAL OR PRIOR AGREEMENT, ORAL OR WRITTEN, AND ANY OTHER COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN YOU AND CONSTRUCTIVISION, INC. RELATING TO THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THIS AGREEMENT.

Limited Warranty¶

USE OF THE CONSTRUCTIVISION, INC. SOFTWARE AND ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION IS GOVERNED BY THE TERMS SET FORTH IN THIS LICENSE AGREEMENT. SUCH USE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK. THE SOFTWARE ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION, INCLUDING THE MANUAL, AND SOFTWARE MAINTENANCE AND EXTENDED MAINTENANCE AS PROVIDED BY CONSTRUCTIVISION, INC. , AS APPLICABLE, ARE PROVIDED “AS IS” AND WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, CONSTRUCTIVISION, INC. AND ITS LICENSORS (HEREINAFTER COLLECTIVELY REFERRED TO AS “CONSTRUCTIVISION”) EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES EXPRESSED IMPLIED INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH RESPECT TO THE SOFTWARE, WRITTEN MATERIALS AND MAINTENANCE AND AGAINST INFRINGEMENT. CONSTRUCTIVISION DOES NOT WARRANT THAT THE FUNCTIONS CONTAINED IN THE SOFTWARE WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS OR THAT THE OPERATION OF THE SOFTWARE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE, OR THAT DEFECTS IN THE SOFTWARE WILL BE CORRECTED. FURTHERMORE, CONSTRUCTIVISION DOES NOT WARRANT OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE USE OR THE RESULTS OF THE USE OF THE SOFTWARE OR ITS DOCUMENTATION IN TERMS OF THEIR CORRECTNESS, ACCURACY, RELIABILITY OR OTHERWISE. NORMAL OR WRITTEN INFORMATION OR ADVICE GIVEN BY CONSTRUCTIVISION OR A CONSTRUCTIVISION-AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE SHALL NOT CREATE A WARRANTY OR IN ANY WAY INCREASE THE SCOPE OF OBLIGATIONS CREATED IN THIS PROVISION. SOME JURISDICTIONS MAY NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, IN WHICH CASE THE ABOVE EXCLUSION REGARDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES MAY NOT APPLY. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL CONSTRUCTIVISION, ITS LICENSORS OR THEIR DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, SUBCONTRACTORS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION AND THE LIKE) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE SOFTWARE OR ITS DOCUMENTATION, EVEN IF CONSTRUCTIVISION OR A CONSTRUCTIVISION-AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN JURISDICTIONS WHICH DO NOT ALLOW THE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY. IN NO EVENT SHALL CONSTRUCTIVISION’S LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ALL DAMAGES, LOSSES AND CAUSES OF ACTION (WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE) EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID FOR THE SOFTWARE.

Installation¶

AutoCAD 2000 or higher is required for installation to proceed.

Install Options¶

To Install from Windows 95/98/2000

From the Start Menu, select Run and choose Setup.exe from the appropriate floppy or CD ROM drive: n:Setup.exe. Note: If your Windows configuration includes the Autorun option, the installation will begin automatically when you insert the CD ROM in your drive.

To Install from Windows NT

Select the File Menu at the top of the Program Manager, select Run from the File Menu, and choose Setup.exe from the appropriate floppy or CD ROM drive: n:Setup.exe.

After initialization, the first Dialog Box will appear. Select one (1) of the options below:

Compact disk space.

Installs only the ConstructiVision program and menu files - recommended for laptops with limited free

Custom

Installs the options you select - recommended for advanced users.

Typical

Installs the complete ConstructiVision program, menu, help, and sample files.

By default, ConstructiVision will create and install into a new Directory under the Directory in which the AutoCAD executable files are located (Acad.exe). If you wish to install ConstructiVision into a different Directory, enter the new path before proceeding. The default Directory is recommended.

After the selected files have been copied to your hard drive, your AutoCAD Support Files Search Path will be modified to include the ConstructiVision Directory and the ConstructiVision Menu will be added to the active AutoCAD Menu Bar.

Finally, you will be given the opportunity to view and/or print the Readme.txt file. This file contains last minute information that is not included in the manual. You should either read this file at the time of installation, or double click on the Readme.txt file located in the ConstructiVision install Directory later. ConstructiVision will be operational the next time you start AutoCAD, and can be invoked from the “ConstructiVision” Pop-up menu on the AutoCAD Menu Bar

The Help File and Manual will be copied to the ConstructiVision installation Directory. The Manual is in RTF format and may be printed with almost any word processor.

Upgrades¶

The latest ConstructiVision Upgrades are always available on our Web Site at http://www.constructivision.com/, along with Tips, FAQs, and other product news. To quickly determine whether you need to download an upgrade, simply look at the Version number ( Vn.nn):

The first digit (to the left of the dot) represents the major release number. If you have an older version, you should upgrade immediately.

The second digit represents a major revision with additional features; any Panels drawn with an older release will automatically be converted to the new format when edited. The conversion is processed automatically whenever a Panel is re-drawn with ConstructiVision, or may be invoked within Batch Utilities to convert all Panels in a Project. Upgrading your version is recommended. The third digit (if any) represents minor internal program modifications, Help file revisions, Dialog Box changes that may affect the appearance of the final drawing (text fonts, dimension line placement, line types, etc.), but do not require conversion to be read correctly. Upgrading your version is optional.

Removal¶

Should it become necessary to remove ConstructiVision from your hard drive (if you want to transfer the files to another computer without breaking your License Agreement, for example) open the Windows Control Panel and select Add/Remove Programs. Highlight ConstructiVision and select Remove. ConstructiVision will be removed from your hard drive and all AutoCAD files will be restored. Any Projects, Panel drawings, reports, and other information in any Directory created by ConstructiVision (other than the ConstructiVision program Directory) will remain undisturbed.

System Requirements¶

The following table describes the basic hardware and software requirements for running ConstructiVision from the hard disk of a local computer. ConstructiVision is designed for computers that use Microsoft Windows 95/98/2000 or Windows NT (it was not designed to run under Windows 3. xxx), and AutoCAD Release 14 or above. For installing ConstructiVision, either a high-density floppy disk drive, CD ROM drive, or Modem, and a hard disk drive are required. For information about requirements for shared installations, see Server-Based Setup for ConstructiVision. Stated simply, if you have AutoCAD (R14 or above) installed and working, ConstructiVision will work.

Minimum

Component Computer Disk Drive Peripheral Memory Video display Disk space Operating System Software

Recommended Component Computer Disk Drive Peripheral Memory Video display Disk space Operating System Software AutoCAD LT).

Optional

ConstructiVision program files (CD ROM, floppy disk, or download file) 80486, 90 MHz processor. High-density floppy disk drive. Mouse or equivalent pointing device. 8 MB of RAM. VGA 800 X 600 256 Color. 2 MB of free hard-disk space Windows 95/98/2000 or Windows NT. AutoCAD 2000 or higher (ConstructiVision will not run under any version of AutoCAD LT).

ConstructiVision program files (CD ROM or download file) Intel Pentium III (or equivalent), 500 MHz processor (or higher). CD-ROM drive. Mouse or equivalent pointing device. 128 MB of RAM (or higher). Super VGA 1024 X 768 True Color with 16 MB RAM (or higher). 10 MB of free hard-disk space. Windows 95/98/2000 or Windows NT. AutoCAD2000 or higher or above (ConstructiVision will not run under any version of

Modem/Router Required for Electronic Engineering, obtaining web-based upgrades, and receiving news bulletins. Network adapter

(required for networking)

Note

ConstructiVision is not compatible with the Novell Network Operating System.

Product Support¶

We hope that your use of ConstructiVision will be enjoyable and trouble-free. It is our intention to provide the best possible product and documentation. We understand that problems arise, and in most cases, you will be able to resolve any problems you may have by referring to the documentation. Answers to questions you might have will usually be found within these pages and are duplicated in the Help file. Pay particular attention to the Notes: and Tips: sections at the end of each Topic.

You may reach our Technical Support staff in several convenient ways:

E-Mail: support@constructivision.com

This is the preferred way to reach us, as it provides enough time for our Technical Staff to research your problem and provide a detailed response without keeping you “on hold”. To ensure a timely response, include the word “Support” in the subject title. We will normally respond by E-Mail, but you may request Voice or FAX response. Please include your Voice and FAX numbers on all E-Mail Support Requests if they are different from the ones you submitted with your Product Registration, as we may need to call you for additional information. You may also request a specific time to receive a Voice response (during our normal hours). If your question concerns a problem with a specific Panel or Panels, please use the “ Export to: ConstructiVision” option in Batch Utilities and attach the Data File.

Telephone: 1-360-633-7773

Our business hours are from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific Standard (or Daylight) Time (-8 hours GMT), Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. If our lines are busy or you call after normal hours, you may leave a Voice Message at any time.

Voice Mail: 1-360-633-7773

You may leave a Voice Message at any time. If your message is left during hours that we are normally closed, it will be given priority status at the beginning of the next business day. Unless requested otherwise, each message will be returned (in the order they were left) before our agents are available to take incoming calls. You may request a specific time to receive our response (during our normal hours). We will make every effort to return all Voice Messages on the same day, or at the start of the following day if left after hours.

FAX: 1-360-633-7773

Our FAX line is available anytime. Response will be by FAX within two (2) working days, unless otherwise requested.

Internet¶

Visit our Web Site at http://www.constructivision.com/ to obtain answers to FAQs, upgrades, product news, links to related sites, and other important information.

U.S. Mail¶

Write to us at:

ConstructiVision, Inc 7306 Oxford Court NW Bremerton, WA 98311

Information to Give¶

When contacting ConstructiVision Technical Support by any of the above methods, please be prepared to provide as much information about the problem as possible. Include the version numbers for: ConstructiVision, Windows, and AutoCAD. Include the command(s) you have tried to use, what the results were, any error messages you may have received, and note why you feel you have a problem.

Real-Time On-Line Support:

This option requires pcAnywhere. If you do not have pcAnywhere, you may install a limited Host Only version of it from our WEB Site at no charge by clicking the “Tech Support” option in our drop-down menu and following the on- screen instructions. An appointment is required, please first call ConstructiVision at 1-360-633-7773 to make an appointment. You will need both an Internet connection and a voice phone connection to use this option. When our Support Technician is on the line, click the “Tech Support” option in our drop-down menu. Your computer will be connected to our Tech Support computer for Real-Time help.

On-Line Support¶

After clicking the “Tech Support” option in our drop-down menu, one of the following Dialog boxes will appear:

If pcAnywhere has not been installed:

Click “Yes” to install a limited, no charge version of pcAnywhere. A reboot will be required after the installation has completed. See Notes below.

If pcAnywhere is already installed:

If you have not already done so, please call Tech Support at 1-360-633-7773 and have a Support Technician on the phone. When ready, the Support Technician will direct you to click “Yes” to continue.

After clicking “Yes”, the following Dialog box will appear:

The Support Technician will ask you to enter his IP address (a series of numbers like 66.15.58.24) in the Host Name: field, then click OK. The Support Technician will then “log in” to your computer to give you step-by-step assistance.

Note

A Broadband connection is recommended to use this option.

Since it is your computer that is initiating the connection, pcAnywhere will function correctly in most cases, even if your Local Area Network (LAN) uses Network Address Translation (NAT) or is behind a Firewall. However, if your Firewall restricts outgoing traffic, you may need to see your Network Administrator for assistance in setting up the connection..

If you already have the full version of pcAnywhere installed, ConstructiVision will use your version for On-Line Support. If you need to install the limited version from our WEB Site, there is no charge, but this version will only communicate with our Tech Support Computers in Host Mode..

Depending on your Windows and Internet Browser security settings, you may receive a warning similar to the one below when attempting to install pcAnywhere. Please click “Open” (or “Run” in Windows XP) and confirm your selection if required.

Program Options¶

Create New Drawing¶

If this is the first Drawing in a new Project, choosing this option will display the Drawing Type Dialog Box for you to select either a template Panel Drawing or template Site Drawing. If selected with a valid ConstructiVision drawing already open, the Choose Drawing Dialog Box will be displayed with current drawing highlighted to use as a template by default.

Edit Existing Drawing¶

If selected with a valid ConstructiVision drawing already open, the Choose Drawing Dialog Box will be displayed with the current drawing highlighted as default, otherwise the Choose Drawing Dialog Box will be presented allowing you to select an existing drawing to edit.

Create New Project¶

This option displays the New Project Dialog Box for creating a new Project.

Batch Utilities¶

This option displays the Batch Utilities Dialog Box for batch operations.

View / Print All Layers¶

Choosing either of these options will display or print all Layers of a Panel or Site Drawing, hard copy Panel Drawings will be properly oriented, centered, and accurately scaled (if an appropriate scale was selected in the Panel Dialog Box), hard copy Site Drawings will be the current display.

View / Print Selected Layers¶

Choosing either of these commands will allow the User to select the desired Layers with the appropriate Layer Control Dialog Box. It will then display or print the Drawing showing only the Layers selected, the associated dimension Layers, and any Layers that may be required for clarity. Hard copy Panel Drawings will be properly oriented, centered, and accurately scaled (if an appropriate scale was selected in the Panel Dialog Box). Hard copy Site Drawings will be the current Display. The hard copy will be properly oriented, centered, and accurately scaled (if an appropriate scale was selected in the Panel Dialog Box).

Change 3D Viewpoint¶

Choosing this option will present the 3D Viewpoint Dialog Box to select the desired viewpoint.

Print Materials List¶

This option displays and prints a list of materials required for Panel construction. It includes a Panel count and quantities for concrete volume, form material, anchor bolts, chamfer, feature strips, pick points, brace points, braces, extensions, and embeds. This command creates or overwrites the matlist.txt file in the current Project Directory for subsequent reference, editing, and/or printing. This file may be edited with any text editor or imported into any word processor. Depending on the complexity of your Project and the speed of your CPU, this option may require a significant amount of time to complete - but it is accurate down to the last anchor bolt and thousands of times faster

than a manual count. Special Note: Since many companies do not use Common Form construction methods, ConstructiVision does not subtract their lineal footage from the Materials List. You may print this list for a single Panel, a group of Panels selected in Batch Utilities, or for all of the Panels attached to your Site Drawing.

Change Project Search Path¶

By default, ConstructiVision will search for your Project Folders in C:\Program Files\ConstructiVision\Project Files
and place all of your new Project folders under the same main folder. If you need to change this behavior, such as when you want your files to be saved on a network drive or a different drive on the same computer, use this option to select a different folder. Clicking this button will present the Search Path Dialog box.

Print Revision History¶

This will print a list of changes made to the Panel(s), the date of change, and the reason. You may print this list for a single Panel or a group of Panels selected in Batch Utilities.

Note

If no ConstructiVision Drawing file is open, most of the tiles will be disabled, otherwise only the tiles associated with the type of Drawing open will be active. Using standard AutoCAD “Plot” commands may not result in a properly scaled and centered print out.

Project Details¶

(Optional information will be automatically included in all correspondence and data transfers.)

Required information:

This information is required for ConstructiVision to proceed with the creation of your new Project.

Measurement System¶

This option selects the Measurement System (Imperial or Metric) to use. Once assigned, the Measurement System cannot be changed, and Imperial and Metric Drawings may not be mixed in the same Project. This selection is only available when you first create a Project.

Dimension Precision¶

Use this option to select the precision you want displayed on your drawings. 1/8” (3 decimal places) is the default. You may change this option at any time; however, you must update any existing drawings with Batch Utilities to reflect the change you made. Please note that this only changes the displayed dimensions, all calculations will still be made to 17 decimal place accuracy.

Language¶

Use this option to select either English or Spanish to be displayed on your drawings. Note: We are still translating, so the Spanish option does not work very well at present.

Paper Size for Scaling¶

Use this option to select the paper size you will be using for your panel books. The size you enter will be used to accurately scale your drawings. You may change this option at any time, but your changes will not be shown in the panels until you update your drawings with Batch Utilities.

Project Name¶

Enter a unique Project Name in the field provided. The name you enter here will be printed in the Title Block for

each Panel you create. Your entry will become the main Directory name (under [AutoCAD Drive\Path]\Project Files]) in which all of the files and/or folders for this Project will be stored. Selecting OK will create the Project Directory and present the Drawing Type Dialog Box. This information will also be displayed in the Panel and Site Dialog Boxes and printed in the Title Block.

Building Name¶

If your Project has multiple buildings, you may enter a unique Building Name in the field provided. If it doesn’t, you may leave this field blank. The name you enter here will be printed in the Title Block for each Panel you create. Your entry will become the sub-Directory name (under [AutoCAD Drive\Path]\Project Files[myProject Name]]) in which all of the files for this Building will be stored. Selecting OK will create the Project and Building Directories and present the Drawing Type Dialog Box. This information will also be displayed in the Panel and Site Dialog Boxes and printed in the Title Block.

Concrete Compressive Strength¶

Enter the concrete compressive strength required at the time of lift (PSI or MPa). This information may be obtained from the Structural Plans and/or the Concrete Design Mix specifications.

Concrete Weight¶

Enter for the concrete weight (P/CF or Kg/M3). This information may be obtained from the Structural Plans and/or the Concrete Design Mix specifications.

Optional information:

This information will automatically be included in all Engineering Data files, Title Blocks, and other reports generated by ConstructiVision. Although not required for program operation, it is recommended that you complete all entries.

Project Location¶

Enter the location of the Project. This information will also be displayed in the Panel and Site Dialog Boxes and printed in the Title Block.

Contractor¶

Enter the Contractor for the Project (usually your company name). This information will also be displayed in the Panel and Site Dialog Boxes and printed in the Title Block.

Superintendent¶

Enter the name of the Project Superintendent.

Address 1

Enter the mailing address of the Contractor.

Address 2

Enter the second line (if any) of the address of the Contractor.

City, State, Zip

Enter the city, state, and zip of the Contractor

Phone

Enter the phone numbers for the Site and Contractor.

FAX¶

Enter the FAX numbers for the Site and Contractor.

E-Mail Address

Enter the e-mail address for the Contractor’s contact person (usually the Superintendent).

Choose Drawing¶

Create new Drawing¶

Edit existing Drawing¶

You may either single click the desired drawing (Panel or Site) and then click Open, double click the desired drawing, or enter the file name you want to use (the suffix [.dwg] will be added for you). After making your selection, the appropriate Dialog Box will be presented.

Tip

If editing the same drawing that is now open, or using it for a template, just click “Open” as the current drawing will be already selected by default.

Change Project Search Path¶

Double click the main folder under which you want all of your Project File folders to be stored (each Project is stored in a separate folder). Make sure it is highlighted in the “Save in:” field as shown above, then click the Save button.

Drawing Type¶

Panel¶

This displays the main Panel Dialog Box to create a new Panel.

Site

This displays the new Site Drawing Dialog Box to create a new Site Drawing.

Panel Layer Control¶

Site Layer Control¶

Layers

Each check box in the first column controls a main Drawing Layer and its associated Dimension Layer. Selected Layers (checked) will be displayed. Unchecked Layers will not be displayed. Dimension Layers will only be displayed if the associated main Drawing Layer is also selected.

Preview

Preview allows you to see how the Drawing will appear after making your selections. The Dialog Box will remain on screen until ‘Done’ is pressed.

HIDE hidden lines?

When viewed or plotted as wireframes, complex drawings often appear too cluttered to convey useful information. Hiding background objects that in reality would be obscured by objects in the foreground simplifies the display and clarifies the design. However, calculating and obscuring hidden lines can be time-consuming. Special Note: Weld Connections may be hidden by this command.

Note

The Dimension Layer associated with a Panel Layer will only be displayed if the Panel Layer is selected. You may also use the standard AutoCAD Layer and printing controls. There may be thousands of Layers in a complex Site Drawing; this feature will quickly and conveniently control all of them with a single mouse click.

Tip

You may also use the ConstructiVision drop-down Menu command View Layers to display these dialog boxes.

Panel 3D Viewpoint¶

Site 3D Viewpoint¶

These Dialog Boxes are provided to simplify switching between Drawing Views. The names and function of the buttons are similar to that displayed in the AutoCAD “View” “3D Viewpoint” submenu.

Inside (Panel only)

This will display the Panel Drawing as seen looking from the inside of the building, normally the “up” side during construction. This is the default Panel view.

Outside (Panel only)

This will display the Panel Drawing as seen looking from the outside of the building, normally the “down” side during construction.

Top

This will display the Panel Drawing as seen looking down from the top edge, or the Site Drawing as seen in Plan View. This is the default Site view.

Left

This will display the drawing as seen looking from the left edge of the Panel or left elevation of the Site.

Right

This will display the drawing as seen looking from the right edge of the Panel or right elevation of the Site.

Front (Site only)

This will display the drawing as seen looking from the front elevation of the Site.

Bottom (Panel only)

This will display the drawing as seen looking from the bottom edge of the Panel.

Back (Site only)

This will display the drawing as seen looking from the back elevation of the Site.

SE Isometric

This will display the drawing in 3D perspective looking from the Southeast.

SW Isometric

This will display the drawing in 3D perspective looking from the Southwest.

NE Isometric

This will display the drawing in 3D perspective looking from the Northeast.

NW Isometric

This will display the drawing in 3D perspective looking from the Northwest.

Tip

You may also use the ConstructiVision drop-down Menu command Change 3d Viewpoint to change the viewpoint.

Main Panel Details¶

This is the Main Panel Dialog Box. It is the starting point for creating and editing all Panels in your Project. For simplicity, each major section will be explained separately.

Project Details¶

Contractor¶

This field displays the contractor for your Project as it will appear in the Title Block of your Drawing. This value is assigned in the Project Details Dialog Box.

Project Name¶

This field displays the Project Name as it will appear in the Title Block of your Drawing. This value is assigned in the Project Details Dialog Box.

Building Name¶

This field displays the Building Name of your Project as it will appear in the Title Block of your Drawing. This value is assigned in the Project Details Dialog Box.

This button displays the Project Details Dialog Box to make any changes.

Drawing Details¶

Panel Number¶

This field may contain up to three digits and one (1) optional alpha (A-Z) suffix. After selecting OK, ConstructiVision will check to see that this number is not already in use, if it is, you will be given the option to overwrite the existing drawing or select a unique number. The Panel Number may only be assigned when creating a new Panel.

Drawn by¶

This field may contain up to six alphanumeric characters to identify the person drafting the Panel.

Drawing Scale¶

You may select a variety of drawing scales from this Drop-Down List. The printed drawing will be accurately scaled to your selection. Please note: Forcing a larger scale factor than will fit on your printer’s paper size may produce a partial or distorted hard copy. Selecting “Auto Scale” will provide the largest standard scale factor for your drawing that will fit on the selected paper size and orientation. The scale factor selected will be printed in the Title Block. Selecting “No Scale” will produce the largest possible drawing that will fit on the selected paper size and orientation. Special Note: If you need all of the Panels in your Project to be drawn to the same scale, create the largest panel first using “Auto Scale”. After the Panel has been drawn, note the scale factor printed in the Title Block. This is the scale you will need to use for your Project. Now edit the Panel, select that scale factor, and click “OK”.

Casting Face Down¶

Outside Face

Draws the Panel with the Outside Wall (face) of the Panel down (contacting the Slab) during construction. The Inside Wall will be the interior wall surface after Lifting. The Outside Wall will be the exterior wall surface after Lifting. Most Panels are cast Outside Face down, and this is the default selection.

Inside Face

Draws the Panel with the Inside Wall (face) of the Panel down (contacting the Slab) during construction. The Inside Wall will be the interior wall surface after Lifting. The Outside Wall will be the exterior wall surface after Lifting. Use this option for special Panel features - like exposed aggregate - that require the Outside Wall to be up during construction.

Distances Specified From:

Use this option to select the method used by the Architect and/or Structural Engineer for specifying dimensions to Openings, Weld Connections, Recesses, etc. Please note that dimensions included on the final Panel Drawing may not be the same as the value you entered as they will be automatically adjusted to account for mitered edges and expansion gaps (if any); and they will always be in reference to the Down Face (Inside or Outside) of the Panel to assist the Layout Crew in accurately snapping chalk lines.

Edge of Panel

The Architectural and/or Structural Plans call out all dimensions to either edge of the Panel without regard to which Face will become the Outside Wall, and regardless of which Face is cast Down. Select this option only if all dimensions already include allowances for expansion gaps. This will disable the Expansion Gao tiles and ignore any values in them.

Outside Wall

The Architectural and/or Structural Plans call out all dimensions to either edge Outside Wall of the Panel regardless of which Face is cast Down. This is the most common option. It allows you to enter dimensions exactly as they appear on the plans. Allowances for expansion gaps (see below) will be calculated automatically when the panel is draawn.

Inside Wall

The Architectural and/or Structural Plans call out all dimensions to either edge Inside Wall of the Panel

regardless of which Face is cast Down. Selectiing htis option also allows you to enter dimensions exactly as they appear on the plans. Allowances for expansion gaps (see below) will be calculated automatically when the panel is drawn.

Printing Layout¶

You may select Automatic, Portrait or Landscape format for the drawing to viewed and/or printed. Selecting Automatic will automatically rotate the drawing if the width of the finished Panel is greater than the overall height.

Panel Details¶

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Thickness¶

Enter the thickness of the Panel.

Width¶

Enters the width of the Panel and places limits on other Slider/Edit Box Clusters. If you enter the Expansion Gaps (see below), you may enter the width as specified on the Architectural or Structural plans. If you do not wish to enter the expansion gaps, the exact casting width of the panel must be entered.

Bottom Elevation¶

Enters the bottom elevation of the Panel and places limits on other Slider/Edit Box Clusters. A dashed red line will indicate the relative elevation of Finished Floor if the bottom of the Panel is negative, but will not display if the Panel is elevated (as in the case of Spandrel Panels).

Top Left Elevation¶

Enters the overall top left elevation of the Panel (including the Top Plate, if any) and places limits on other Slider/Edit Box Clusters. Changes entered here will be copied to Top Right Elevation and Top Peak Elevation, so it is recommended that you enter this value first for sloping or peaked top Panels.

Top Right Elevation¶

Enters the overall top right elevation of the Panel (including the Top Plate, if any) and places limits on other Slider/Edit Box Clusters. Changes entered in Top Left will be reflected here, so it is recommended that you enter the value for Top Left first for sloping Panels. This tile will be disabled if the Panel has an arched top.

Top Peak Distance¶

Enters the distance of the Top Peak (if any) from the left edge of the Panel. Entering zero (0) indicates there is no Top Peak.

Top Peak Elevation¶

Enters the overall top peak elevation of the Panel (including the Top Plate, if any) and places limits on other Slider/Edit Box Clusters. Changes entered in Top Left will be reflected here, so it is recommended that you enter the value for Top Left first for peaked top Panels. This tile will be disabled if the Top Peak Distance is set to zero or Panel has an arched top.

Top Arch Radius¶

Enter the arch radius of the top of the Panel. This value must either be zero (0) for no arch, or any positive value. If a value less than half the width of the Panel is entered, the Arch will be centered on the Panel and will not extend to the Panel edges. Any value except zero (0) will disable the Right Elevation, Top Peak Elevation, and Top Peak Distance tiles. Note: The radius is measured to the Top of Panel. If a Top Plate is included, the actual radius to the Top of Concrete will be reduced by the thickness of the Top Plate material.

Left and Right Edge Miter

Enter the Outside Corner Joint miter angle (in degrees) for the left or right edge of the Panel. This will slope the edge in toward the top surface. (“Outside Corner Joint” assumes that the Panel is cast Outside Wall Down).

Enter the Inside Corner Joint miter angle (in degrees) for the left or right edge of the Panel. This will slope the edge in toward the bottom surface. (“Inside Corner Joint” assumes that the Panel is cast Outside Wall Down).

Z Offset¶

Enter the offset distance from the Down Face of the Panel to the start of the Miter. If zero (0”) is entered, Outside corner miters will start from the Down Face and Inside Corner miters will start from the Up Face. If both Outside and Inside Corner miters are needed, the middle of the Panel thickness will automatically be used as the Z Offset unless a non-zero value is specified.

Up Face (display only)

This tile dynamically displays the edge configuration chosen for each edge of the Panel. The edge section is shown as seen from the bottom of the Panel, parallel to the slab. The “Up Face” notation simply indicates which face is the up face (which could be Inside or Outside Wall depending on which face is cast down).

Expansion Gap¶

Dimensions on the final Panel drawing will be adjusted depending on the values you enter here. Using this feature will allow you to enter all dimensions exactly as they are called out on the Architectural and/or Structural Plans.

Left

Enter the expansion gap needed for the left edge of the Panel.

Right

Enter the expansion gap needed for the right edge of the Panel.

Radius Panel¶

Enter the radius for curved, Outside Corner Panels. This value must either be zero (0) for normal Panels, or any positive value greater than or equal to half the width of the Panel.

(This feature is currently disabled. It will be available in the next release.)

Panel Features¶

Each of these toggles will present the appropriate Dialog Box to add features to the Panel. The information below includes a general definition for each feature; for detailed information on a specific toggle, simply click on the associated link. Please note: Disabling all entries in a sub-Dialog Box will cause the feature toggle to be unchecked. Conversely, if any entry in the sub-Dialog Box is enabled, the feature toggle will remain checked.

Standard Opening¶

A Standard Opening is an opening within the Panel that may or may not touch either edge. The elevation is measured from Finished Floor (FF) to the bottom of the opening, and the height is the overall height of the opening.

Recess / Blockout¶

A Blockout can be a rectangular, circular, arched, or triangular opening, recess, or Insulation Block within the Panel that may or may not touch either edge. The elevation and distance are measured from Finished Floor (FF) and the Panel side, respectively, to the endpoints of the Blockout (or center if a circle is specified). Blockouts used as Architectural Recesses may have materials assigned such as Exposed Aggregate or Form Liners.

Man Door¶

A Man Door is an opening within the Panel that does not touch either edge. The elevation is measured from Finished Floor (FF) to the bottom of the door, and the height is the overall height of the door. If your plans specify the height as a top elevation, be sure to subtract the distance from FF to the bottom of the door. Doors are similar to Standard Openings but include the direction of the door swing in the drawing.

Dock Leveler¶

A Dock Leveler is an opening within the Panel that does not touch either edge, and has an extra Blockout at the bottom to accommodate a hydraulic leveler. The elevation of the Main Dock is measured from Finished Floor (FF) to the bottom of the Dock, and the height is the overall height of the Dock excluding the Leveler Pit.

Pilaster / Lintel¶

A Pilaster is a vertical column that extends its thickness from the “UP” face of the Panel. A Lintel (Corbel) is a horizontally oriented projection from the “UP” face of the Panel, and is typically placed above or below openings. Pilasters or Lintels may also be extended from either edge of the Panel to produce supporting haunches for roof or floor joists, or to draw interlocking Panel configurations. When used in this manner, the Pilaster/Lintel will start from the Down Face and extrude toward the Up Face at the thickness specified.

Ledger / Top Plate¶

Ledgers are sections of treated lumber (or metal) extending across the inside Panel surface, and are usually attached with anchor bolts cast into the Panel wall. Ledgers are used to attach floor and roof systems and other objects to the finished wall. A Top Plate (or Nailer Strip) is a section of treated lumber extending across the top of the Panel, and is usually attached with anchor bolts cast into the Panel wall. Top Plates are used to attach roofing supports and other objects to the finished wall. When present, they normally also form the top Edge Form of the Panel.

Chamfer¶

Chamfer (beveled edges) may be applied to either (or both) surface(s) of the main Panel and/or selected Panel features.

Feature Strip¶

Feature Strips are cosmetic enhancements on either surface of the Panel wall that extend vertically or horizontally along the surface. Feature Strips may optionally be placed on the inside edges of other features, or the edges of the main Panel.

Slab Dowels¶

Slab Dowels are J-shaped lengths of rebar embedded in the Panel wall that protrude from below Finished Floor (FF) and extend toward the slab. They are used to anchor the Panel to the slab and/or other floors after the closure strip is poured.

Weld Connections¶

ConstructiVision creates simple 3D boxes to indicate the overall size, location, and placement of Weld Connections.

Pick Points¶

Pick Points are embeds placed in the Panel wall used to attach the lifting harness during Lifting. ConstructiVision creates a simple triangular hatch pattern to mark the center-point location of these points. Special Note: Pick Points are always dimensioned from Edge of Panel regardless of your selection in the Distances Specified From: option.

Brace Points¶

Brace Points are embeds placed in the Panel wall used to attach the braces before lifting. ConstructiVision creates a simple circular hatch pattern to mark the center-point location of these points. Special Note: Brace Points are always dimensioned from Edge of Panel regardless of your selection in the Distances Specified From: option.

Op Hand?¶

Selecting this option will change the Panel to a mirror image, or Opposite Hand, of itself. Special Note: The direction of the door swing (if Man Doors are present) will not be reversed by this operation.

Revisions¶

Clicking this button will display the Revisions Dialog Box for you to record any changes made to the Panel for future reference. This information automatically sorted and printed for single Panels, or groups of Panels selected from Batch Utilities.

Undo¶

Selecting this option will undo the most recent changes made to the Panel. Selecting Undo again will restore the recent changes. This button will be disabled if there are no changes to undo.

Global¶

Selecting this option will display the Global Changes Dialog Box for you to enter additional information.

Standard Opening¶

A Standard Opening is an opening within the Panel that may or may not touch either edge. The elevation is measured from Finished Floor (FF), to the bottom of the opening, and the height is the overall height of the opening. If your plans specify the height as a top elevation, be sure to subtract the distance from FF to the bottom of the opening. Although you may specify a zero (0) distance from either edge, it is recommended that you use the Snap- to-Edge option.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 24 Standard Openings)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected opening, simplifying design changes and permitting pre- definition of openings in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the opening will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the opening will be included in the final drawing.

Snap-to-Edge¶

This feature is very useful for making Footing Steps, Top Steps, Rough Openings, Loading Dock Doors, Pour Throughs, and Spandrel Seats. A Standard Opening can be snapped to either Left or Right and/or Top or Bottom. Please note that the actual width of the opening may be adjusted to comply with your selection of Distances Specified From on the Main Panel Dialog Box; i.e., Outside Face or Inside Face.

Left

This will snap the left edge of the opening to the left edge of the Panel, disables the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Right.

Right

This will snap the left edge of the opening to the right edge of the Panel, disables the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Left.

Top

This will snap the top edge of the opening to the top edge of the Panel, disable the Elevation tile, and turn off Snap-to-Edge - Bottom. If the opening is snapped to the sloped top of a Panel, the longest vertical edge will be the specified height of the opening; the other edge will be shortened to fit the top slope. Top Plates (Nailer Strips) intersecting Standard Openings may either be trimmed or stepped down to the bottom of the opening. If you want the Top Plate to extend across an opening, such as for a roof scupper, use a Blockout instead of a Standard Opening. See Ledger / Top Plate for more information.

Bottom

This will snap the bottom edge of the opening to the bottom edge of the Panel, disable the Elevation tile, and turn off Snap-to-Edge - Top. No elevation marker will be drawn.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance measurement to the nearest edge of the opening is to be taken. The baseline dimension will include measurements from each side to the closest edge and the width of the opening. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Enter the distance from the edge of the Panel to the selected edge. A value of zero (0) will block out the nearest edge of the Panel. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance and Width greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Elevation¶

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the bottom of the opening. A value equal to the bottom of the Panel will block out that section of the Panel. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values that make the sum of Elevation and Height greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the bottom of the opening) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Width¶

Enter the width of the opening. A value of zero (0) will extend the opening to the other side of the Panel and will block out the far side. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance and Width greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Height¶

Enter the overall height of the opening. A value of zero (0) will extend the opening to the top of the Panel and will block out the top. Negative values and values that make the sum of Height and Elevation greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the top of the opening) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Radius

Enter zero (0) (default) for square top openings, or enter the radius of the arch. Negative values and values less than half the width of the opening will display a warning message. The radius dimension will be displayed at the top of the opening.

Drip

When selected, places a “Drip” marker at the top center of the opening. This tile may be disabled by the Future tile.

Future

When selected, places the words “FUTURE OPENING” inside of the opening, draws a dashed line around the opening perimeter, and does not subtract the opening from the solid Panel. Note that this also disables the Drip tile.

Additional pages¶

Note

Ledgers may be trimmed from openings that are not future openings, and bolts in the remaining Ledger segments will be adjusted appropriately with a minimum of two (2) bolts per segment. Top Plates intersecting openings will be stepped down into the bottom of the opening if Trim is selected in the Ledger/Top Plate Dialog Box. To completely trim Top Plates, use Blockouts instead of Standard Openings.

Tip

To place adjacent openings at a specified separation, simply enter the “+” symbol ahead of the desired separation between the openings in the Distance Edit Box for the second (or subsequent) opening. The distance from the appropriate Panel side will be calculated for you and all other values will be copied from the opening above. You may then make any adjustments required. Please note that the calculated value includes the width of the source opening. If the resulting sum of the calculated distance and copied width exceeds the Panel perimeter, a warning will be displayed.

To place an opening in the exact center of the Panel, first enter the width of the opening in the Width Edit Box, then type the letter “c” in the Distance Edit Box and press ENTER. The distance from the Panel side will be calculated for you. You may then make any adjustments required.

You may achieve unique shapes by “overlapping” openings or combining them with other features. When using this technique, try to use coincident edges wherever possible to avoid cluttering the baseline dimensions.

Recess / Blockout¶

A Blockout can be a rectangular, circular, arched, or triangular opening, recess, or Insulation Block within the Panel that may or may not touch either edge. The elevation and distance are measured from Finished Floor (FF) and the Panel side, respectively, to the endpoints of the Blockout (or center if a circle is specified). Blockouts used as architectural recesses may have a material assigned such as Exposed Aggregate or Form Liners,

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 18 Blockouts)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Blockout, simplifying design changes and permitting pre- definition of Blockouts in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the Blockout will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Blockout will be included in the final drawing.

Blockout Type

Blockouts can be rectangular, arched, circular or triangular shaped.

Rectangle (R)

Draws a rectangular-shaped Blockout and disables the Radius tile.

Circle (C)

Draws a circular-shaped Blockout, and disables the Snap-to-Edge, Width, and Height tiles.

Arch (A)

Draws an arched-shaped Blockout and disables the Snap-to-Edge and Height tiles.

Triangle (T)

Draws a triangular-shaped Blockout and disables the Snap-to-Edge tile. Upside down triangles may be drawn by making the height negative.

Snap-to-Edge¶

This feature is very useful for making Footing Steps, Top Steps, Rough Openings, Loading Dock Doors, Pour Throughs, and Spandrel Seats. A Recess or Blockout can be snapped to either Left or Right and/or Top or Bottom. Please note that the actual width of the opening may be adjusted to comply with your selection of Distances Specified From on the Main Panel Dialog Box; i.e., Outside Face or Inside Face.

Left

This will snap the left edge of the Blockout to the left edge of the Panel, disable the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Right.

Right

This will snap the left edge of the Blockout to the right edge of the Panel, disable the Distance and From tiles, and turn off Snap-to-Edge - Left.

Top

This will snap the top edge of the Blockout to the top edge of the Panel, disable the Elevation tile. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Bottom. If the Blockout is snapped to the sloped top of a Panel, the longest vertical edge will be the specified height of the Blockout; the other edge will be shortened to fit the top slope. Top Plates (Nailer Strips) intersecting Blockouts may either be trimmed or extended across the opening. If you want the Top Plate to step down into the opening, such as for a stepped top Panel, use Standard Opening instead of a Blockout. See Ledger / Top Plate for more information.

Bottom

This will snap the bottom edge of the Blockout to the bottom edge of the Panel, disable the Elevation tile. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Top.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which side of the Panel the distance measurement to the nearest edge of the Blockout is to be taken. A dimension line will be drawn from the nearest edge of the Panel to the nearest edge of the Blockout, unless disabled by Snap-to-Edge - Left/Right. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Enter the distance specified on the plans to the edge of the Blockout. A value of zero (0) will block out the nearest edge of the Panel; however, it is recommended that you use the Snap-to-Edge function for this purpose. Negative values may be entered for special situations (see Tips below).

Elevation¶

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the bottom of the Blockout. A value equal to the bottom of the Panel will block out that section of the Panel; however, it is recommended that the Snap-to-Edge function be used for this purpose. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values that make the sum of Elevation and Height greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. Unless disabled by Snap-to-Edge -Top/Bottom, an elevation marker (from FF to the bottom of the Blockout) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Width¶

Enter the width of the Blockout. A value of zero (0) will extend the Blockout to the other side of the Panel and will block out the far side; however, it is recommended that you use the Snap-to-Edge function for this purpose. Negative values maybe entered for special situations (see Tips below).

Height¶

Enter the overall height of the Block Out. A value of 0 will extend the Block Out to the top of the Panel and will block out the top; however, it is recommended that you use the Snap-to-Edge function for this purpose. Values that make the sum of Height and Elevation greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. Negative values maybe entered for special situations (see Tips below). See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Radius / Peak¶

Enter the radius of circular or arched Block Outs. If Triangle is selected, enter the distance from left edge of the triangle to the peak of the triangle.

Thickness¶

Enter the thickness of the Recess or Block Out. A value of 0 will extend the block out completely through the Panel and disable the On Face, Z Offset, and Form Liner/Aggregate tiles. Negative values and values greater than the Panel thickness will display a warning message.

On Face¶

Specifies that Recess is to be placed on Up (Near) surface of the Panel and disables the Z Offset tile if selected.

Specifies that Recess is to be placed on Down (Far) surface of the Panel, and disables the Z Offset tile if selected.

Panel Edge (L/R)

Places the Recess on the selected edge of the Panel. The Recess will be correctly placed on mitered sides and intersecting Pilasters/Lintels. This tile will be disabled unless the Recess Depth is zero (0) and the Thickness plus the Z Offset is less than the Panel thickness.

Inside Openings (I)

Selects whether the Recess is to be placed on the inside edge of intersecting openings. This tile will be disabled unless the Recess Depth is zero (0) and the Thickness plus the Z Offset is less than the Panel thickness.

Z Offset¶

Enter the Z offset of the block out from the selected surface of the Panel to create Insulation Blocks for “Sandwich Panels”; a value of zero (0) will place the block out on the surface for Beam Pockets, or architectural features. Negative values and values greater than the Panel thickness will display a warning message.

Liner/Aggr¶

Selecting Liner or Aggr will assign a Form Liner or Exposed Aggregate to the recess. An appropriate Hatch Pattern will be displayed in the Drawing. The Panel concrete volume and weight will be adjusted for accurate engineering.

Form Liners and Exposed Aggregate will be counted in the Materials List. These tiles will be disabled unless the Recess Depth is zero (0) and the Thickness plus the Z Offset is less than the Panel thickness.

No Dim¶

Checking this box will inhibit all dimensioning for this Blockout. Use this feature when creating a complex shape with multiple Blockouts, Standard Openings, and/or Pilasters to limit the dimensions shown on the final Panel drawing.

Additional pages¶

Note

Ledgers and Top Plates may be trimmed from Block Outs. Intersecting bolts will be removed. See Ledger/Top Plate for more information.

Tip

To place adjacent Block Outs at a specified separation, simply enter the “+” symbol ahead of the desired separation between the Block Outs in the Distance Edit Box for the second (or subsequent) block out. The distance from the appropriate Panel side will be calculated for you and all other values will be copied from the block out above. You may then make any adjustments required. Please note that the calculated value includes the width of the source Block Out. If the resulting sum of the calculated distance and copied width exceeds the Panel perimeter, a warning will be displayed.

To place a Block Out in the exact center of the Panel, first enter the width of the opening in the Width Edit Box, then type the letter “c” in the Distance Edit Box and press ENTER. The distance from the Panel side will be calculated for you. You may then make any adjustments required.

Negative values may be entered for the Distance, Width, and Height tiles to create special Panel features.

Distance¶

Entering a minus sign before the distance value will cause the Recess or Blockout to begin at the specified distance outside of the Panel edge (left or right depending on your selection in the Measure From field). This is useful for changing the shape of, or placing a Recess or Blockout in, a Pilaster or Lintel that extrudes beyond the edge of the Panel. Please be aware that a Recess or Blockout that does not intersect such an extrusion will not be included on the final Panel drawing, but the dimensions will be.

Width¶

Entering a minus sign before the width value will cause the Recess or Blockout to be drawn in reverse (mirror image). This is also useful for changing the shape of, or placing a Recess or Blockout in, a Pilaster or Lintel that extrudes beyond the edge of the Panel. Please be aware that a Recess or Blockout that does not intersect such an extrusion will not be included on the final Panel drawing, but the dimensions will be.

Height¶

Entering a minus sign before the height value will cause the Recessor Blockout to be drawn upside down. The elevation you entered will be the elevation of the top of the Blockout. This is useful for creating upside down triangles.

Man Door¶

A Man Door is an opening within the Panel. The elevation is measured from Finished Floor (FF) to the bottom of the door, and the height is the overall height of the door. If your plans specify the height as a top elevation, be sure to subtract the distance from FF to the bottom of the door. Doors are similar to Standard Openings but include the direction of the door swing in the drawing. Doorframes will be counted in the Materials List.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 6 Man Doors)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected door, simplifying design changes and permitting pre-definition of Doors in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the door will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the door will be included in the final drawing.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which side of the Panel the distance measurement to the nearest edge of the door is to be taken. The baseline dimension will include measurements from each side to the closest edge and the width of the door. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Enter the distance from the edge of the Panel to the nearest edge. A value of zero (0) will block out the nearest edge of the Panel. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance and Width greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Elevation¶

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the bottom of the door. A value equal to the bottom of the Panel will block out that section of the Panel. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values that make the sum of Elevation and Height greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the bottom of the door) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Width¶

Enter the width of the door. A value of zero (0) will extend the door to the other edge of the Panel and will block out the far side. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance and Width greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. Special Note: Specifying a width greater than 6’-0” will automatically draw a double Man Door.

Height¶

Enter the overall height of the door. A value of zero (0) will extend the door to the top of the Panel and will block out the top. Negative values and values that make the sum of Height and Elevation greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the top of the door) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Opens

Select Left or Right to include the appropriate door swing symbol in the final drawing.

Future

When selected, places the words “FUTURE OPENING” inside of the door, draws a dashed line around the door perimeter, and does not subtract the door from the solid Panel.

Description

Optional: Enter the Architectural Door Type or other information, like “Hinges Up”, if needed.

Note

Ledgers will be automatically trimmed from Man Doors that are not future openings, and bolts in the remaining Ledger segments will be adjusted appropriately with a minimum of two (2) bolts per segment.

Tip

To place a door in the exact center of the Panel, first enter the width of the opening in the Width Edit Box, then type the letter “c” in the Distance Edit Box and press ENTER. The distance from the Panel side will be calculated for you. You may then make any adjustments required.

To place an identical door above or below another, simply enter the “+” symbol ahead of the desired difference in elevation between the Doors in the Elevation Edit Box for the second (or subsequent) door. The elevation from FF will be calculated for you and all other values will be copied from the door above. You may then make any adjustments required. If the resulting sum of the calculated elevation and copied height exceeds the Panel perimeter, a warning will be displayed. Please note that the calculated value includes the height of the source door (this follows the convention used in most plan drawings).

Dock Leveler¶

A Dock Leveler is an opening within the Panel that does not touch either edge, and has an extra Blockout at the bottom to accommodate a hydraulic leveler. The elevation of the Main Dock is measured from Finished Floor (FF), to the bottom of the Dock, and the height is the overall height of the Dock excluding the Leveler Pit. The bottom of the Leveler Pit is measured from the Elevation of Dock, and the Leveler is always centered in the Main Dock.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 6 Dock Levelers)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Dock Leveler, facilitating design changes and permitting pre- definition of Dock Levelers in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the Dock Leveler will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Dock Leveler will be included in the final drawing.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which side of the Panel the distance measurement to the nearest edge of the Dock Leveler is to be taken. The baseline dimension will include measurements from each side to the closest edge, the distance from each edge to the closest edge of the Leveler Pit and the width of the Pit. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Dock Elevation

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the bottom of the Dock Leveler, excluding the Leveler Pit. A value equal to the bottom of the Panel will block out that section of the Panel, but will leave no room for the Leveler Pit. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values that make the sum of Elevation and Height greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the bottom of the Dock Leveler) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Dock Width

Enter the width of the Dock Leveler. A value of zero (0) will extend the Dock Leveler to the other edge of the Panel and will block out the far side. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance and Width greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Dock Height

Enter the overall height of the Dock Leveler, excluding the Leveler Pit. A value of zero (0) will extend the Dock Leveler to the top of the Panel and will block out the top. Negative values and values that make the sum of Height and Elevation greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the top of the Dock Leveler) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information. If your plans specify the height as a top elevation, be sure to subtract the distance from FF to the bottom of the Dock Leveler.

Leveler Width

Enter the width of the Leveler Pit. A value of zero (0) will extend the leveler pit to the panel edge and result in a useless Dock Leveler. Negative values and values greater than the Dock Width will display a warning message. The Leveler Pit will be centered in the Dock Leveler.

Leveler Depth

Enter the depth of the Leveler Pit as measured from the Main Dock Elevation. A value equal to the bottom of the Panel will block out that section of the Panel. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and negative values will

display a warning message. A marker displaying the elevation (from FF to the bottom of the Pit) will be placed outside the nearest edge of the Panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Drip

When selected, places a “Drip” marker at the top center of the Dock Leveler.

Door Guard

When selected, places a metal embed on each side of the Dock Leveler to protect the concrete edges. Door Guards will be counted in the Materials List.

Note

Ledgers will be automatically trimmed from Dock Levelers, and bolts in the remaining Ledger segments will be adjusted appropriately with a minimum of two (2) bolts per segment.

Tip

To place adjacent Dock Levelers at a specified separation, simply enter the “+” symbol ahead of the desired separation between the Dock Levelers in the Distance Edit Box for the second (or subsequent) Dock Leveler. The distance from the appropriate Panel side will be calculated for you and all other values will be copied from the Dock Leveler above. You may then make any adjustments required. Please note that the calculated value includes the width of the source Dock Leveler. If the resulting sum of the calculated distance and copied width exceeds the Panel perimeter, a warning will be displayed.

To place a Dock Leveler in the exact center of the Panel, first enter the width of the opening in the Width Edit Box, then type the letter “c” in the Distance Edit Box and press ENTER. The distance from the Panel side will be calculated for you. You may then make any adjustments required.

In the event that you need a Leveler Pit that is not centered in the Dock Leveler, you may combine a Standard Opening with the Dock Leveler, adjusting its width to the required offset.

Pilaster / Lintel¶

A Pilaster is a thickening of the Panel wall that extends from the bottom of the Panel. A Lintel (Corbel) is a thickening of the Panel wall above the bottom of the Panel, and is typically placed above or below openings. A Lintel is a thickening of the Panel wall above the bottom of the Panel, and is typically placed above or below openings.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box include 24 Pilaster/Lintels)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Pilaster or Lintel, simplifying design changes and permitting pre-definition of pilasters in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the Pilaster or Lintel will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Pilaster or Lintel will be included in the final drawing.

Snap-to-Edge¶

A Pilaster or Lintel can be snapped to either Left or Right and/or Top or Bottom. Please note that the actual width of the Pilaster or Lintel may be adjusted to comply with your selection of Distances Specified From on the Main Panel Dialog Box; i.e., Outside Face or Inside Face.

Left

This will snap the left edge of the Pilaster or Lintel to the left edge of the Panel, and disable the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Right.

Right

This will snap the left edge of the Pilaster or Lintel to the right edge of the Panel, and disable the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Left.

Top

This will snap the top edge of the Pilaster or Lintel to the top edge of the Panel, disables the Elevation tile, and turns off Snap-to-Edge - Bottom. If the Pilaster or Lintel is snapped to the sloped top of a Panel, the longest vertical edge will be the specified height of the Pilaster or Lintel; the other edge will be shortened to fit the top slope.

Bottom

This will snap the bottom edge of the Pilaster to the bottom edge of the Panel. Disables the Left and Right elevation tiles. Uncheck this option to create Lintels. No elevation marker will be drawn.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance to the closest edge of the Pilaster or Lintel is to be taken. The baseline dimension will include measurements from each side to the closest edge and the width of the Pilaster or Lintel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Enter the distance from the edge of the Panel to the selected edge. A value of zero (0) will place the Pilaster or Lintel on the nearest edge of the Panel. Negative values maybe entered for special situations (see Tips below).

Left Elevation

Enter the Left elevation of the Lintel (from FF). Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values greater than the height of the Panel will display a warning message.

Right Elevation

Enter the Right elevation of the Lintel (from FF). Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values greater than the height of the Panel will display a warning message.

Width¶

Enter the width of the Pilaster or Lintel. A value of zero (0) will extend the Pilaster or Lintel to the other edge of the Panel. Negative values maybe entered for special situations (see Tips below). Values that make the sum of Distance and Width greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Height¶

Enter the height of the Pilaster or Lintel. A value of zero (0) will extend the Pilaster or Lintel to the height of the Panel. Negative values maybe entered for special situations (see Tips below). Values that make the sum of the elevation and height greater than the height of the Panel will display a warning message.

Thickness¶

Enter the actual thickness of the Pilaster or Lintel. This value will be added to the thickness of the Panel. Negative values will display a warning message. A value of zero will not draw a useful Pilaster or Lintel.

Additional pages¶

Note

Ledgers may be trimmed completely from or segmented and placed on the top surface of the Pilaster or Lintel and the bolts will be adjusted to include a minimum of two (2) bolts in each segment.

Feature Strips placed “UP”, i.e., on inside surface of the Panel (the inside of the building), will be placed around the surfaces of the Pilaster or Lintel.

Pilasters or Lintels coincident with the Panel side will be mitered appropriately. Additionally, Pilasters or Lintels intersecting an imaginary line drawn during the mitering process will be mitered along that line.

Pilasters or Lintels intersecting the sloped top of a Panel will be sloped with the Panel.

Tip

Pilasters may be used to create Panels that are thicker near the bottom edge than the top by setting both the Distance and Width to zero (0), and setting the Height to the elevation of the thickness change. (Use Lintels in a similar manner to create Panels thicker near the top.)

Negative values may be entered for the Distance, Width, and Height tiles to create special Panel features.

Distance¶

Entering a minus sign before the distance value will cause the Pilaster to begin at the specified distance outside of the Panel edge (left or right depending on your selection in the Measure From field).

This is useful for placing a Pilaster that extrudes beyond the edge of the Panel.

Width¶

Entering a minus sign before the width value will cause the Pilaster to be drawn in reverse (mirror image). This is useful for placing a Pilaster that extrudes beyond the edge of the Panel. The Pilaster will be coincident with the Down Face, at the specified thickness. Use this feature to create interlocking, stepped Panels or to create haunches to support floor or roof joists, etc.

Height¶

Entering a minus sign before the height value will cause the Pilaster to be drawn upside down. The elevation you entered will be the elevation of the top of the Pilaster.

Ledger / Top Plate¶

Also see Roof Line for additional information

Ledgers are sections of treated lumber extending across the inside Panel surface, and are usually attached with anchor bolts cast into the Panel wall. Ledgers are used to attach floor and roof systems and other objects to the finished wall. A Top Plate (or Nailer Strip) is a section of treated lumber extending across the top of the Panel, and is usually attached with anchor bolts cast into the Panel wall. Top Plates are used to attach roofing supports and other objects to the finished wall. When present, they are also normally used in forming the top edge form of the Panel.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 6 Ledgers or Top Plates)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster and Slope Calculator for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters and buttons.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the Ledger or Top Plate, simplifying design changes and permitting pre- definition of Ledgers in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the Ledger or Top Plate will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Ledger or Top Plate will be included in the final drawing.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance to the closest end of the Ledger is to be taken. The baseline dimension line will be drawn from the nearest edge of the Panel to the closest end of the Ledger, unless the end is coincident with the Panel side. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Enter the distance from the edge of the Panel to the end of the Ledger. A value of zero (0) will place the end of the Ledger on the nearest edge of the Panel. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance plus the Length greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Left Elevation

Enter the elevation (from FF to the top of the Ledger) of the left end of the Ledger. Values less than the bottom of the Panel or greater than the top of the Panel will display a warning message. Entries will be copied to Right Elevation. This tile will be disabled if the Top Plate option is checked.

Right Elevation

Enter the elevation (from FF to the top of the Ledger) of the right end of the Ledger. Values less than the bottom of the Panel or greater than the top of the Panel will display a warning message.

Length

Enter the overall length of the Ledger. A value of zero (0) will extend the Ledger to the Panel edge. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance plus the Length greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Size/Top Plate/stand on (E)dge

Size

Choose either Metal or the actual lumber (timber) size of the wood Ledger or Top Plate from 2 X 4” to 6 X 12” (75 X 100 mm to 150 X 300 mm). In the Imperial measurement system, the Ledger will be drawn 1/2” smaller than the listed size (following the standard lumber size conventions). Selecting a lumber size resets Bolt Length and Offset range checking variables.

Top Plate (Tp Plt)

Use this option to create a Top Plate on the top of the panel. Disables Left and Right elevation.

Stand-on-(E)dge

Checking this option stands the Ledger or Top Plate up on its edge and resets the Bolt Length and Offset range checking variables. Normally, Ledgers and Top Plates are placed with their “wide” side flush to the concrete; this command places them with their “narrow” side flush to the concrete.

Trim from:

Standard Openings (SO)

Checking this toggle will trim Ledgers from the intersecting Standard Openings and step Top Plates down into the opening. Un-checking this toggle will not trim Ledgers or Top Plates, but intersecting bolts will be removed.

Blockouts (BO)

Checking this toggle will trim Ledgers and Top Plates from intersecting Blockouts. Un-checking this toggle will not trim Ledgers or Top Plates, but intersecting bolts will be removed.

Pilasters / Lintels (PL)

Checking this toggle will trim Ledgers from intersecting Pilasters and Lintels. Un-checking this toggle will segment the Ledger and place it on the top surface of the Pilaster or Lintel. Top Plates are not affected by this selection.

Weld Connections (WC)

Checking this toggle will trim Ledgers and Top Plates from intersecting Weld Connections. Un-checking this toggle will not trim the Ledger or Top Plate, and intersecting bolts will not be removed.

Max Bolt Spacing

Enter the maximum center-to-center spacing between the bolts. The actual spacing may be adjusted when the Panel is drawn, to evenly space the bolts on each segment. Values less than 6” (150mm) or greater than half the Panel width will display a warning message.

Quan

Under normal circumstances, leave this number at zero(0) fro fully automatic bolt placement. If you need a specific number of bolts, enter the number here. The spacing will be adjusted automatically. Disables the Max Bolt Spacing tile if non-zero.

Inset

This tile sets the absolute inset of the first and last bolt from the edges of the Ledger. The actual inset may be adjusted to center the array of bolts in a segment to maintain a minimum of two (2) bolts per segment.

Center Offset

Enter the offset of the bolts from centerline, or a double row of bolts. A value of zero (0) will place the bolts on center. Values that would place the bolts outside the Ledger will display a warning message. Typing anything beginning with the letter “D” (upper or lower case) and pressing ENTER will display the word “Double”; if a double row of bolts will not fit the size and orientation of the Ledger, a warning message will appear.

Bolt Size

Diameter

Selects the bolt diameter, from 1/4” to 2” (6 to 50 mm).

Length

Selects the bolt length: from 3” to 24” (75 to 610 mm). Bolt lengths too short to extend through the Ledger into the concrete, or too long to allow sufficient concrete cover (1” or 25mm), will display a warning message.

Slope Calc.

This will display the Slope Calculator.

Roof Line¶

Clicking on this toggles the display to the Roof Line page. The toggle for the current page displayed is grayed out. A check mark in the toggle means there is an active feature on that page. If the toggle is unchecked, it means that there are no active features on that page.

Note

For Wood, text indicating the Ledger size and Bolt size, spacing, and offset will be displayed just above the Ledger in the final drawing.

Elevation markers will be drawn to the top of the Ledger.

Ledgers will be automatically trimmed from Man Doors and Dock Levelers unless the Future option is turned on.

Ledgers may be trimmed from Standard Openings and Block Outs. Top Plates trimmed from Block Outs will be completely removed. Top Plates trimmed from Standard Openings will be automatically stepped down to the bottom of the intersecting opening.

The specified Maximum Bolt Spacing and Inset will be maintained for each Ledger or Top Plate segment unless overridden by the requirement for a minimum of two (2) bolts per segment.

Ledgers and Top Plates will be mitered with the sides of the Panel for inward facing corners only.

Ledgers and Top Plates intersecting chamfered edges of openings or chamfered sides of the Panel will not be trimmed to include the chamfer.

The required lumber counted in the Materials List function provided in Site Options will be segregated by the size required for each Ledger or Top Plate.

The number of bolts counted in the Materials List function provided in Site Options will be segregated by the bolts size required for each Ledger or Top Plate.

Roof Line¶

Roof Lines (shown as dark green dashed lines on the panel drawing) can be used as a handy way to keep track of compound roof slopes, but they are most useful as reference lines for Weld Connections Arrays. Once the Roof Lines are included in your panel drawings, purlin, joist, beam and girder arrays (or discreet embeds) can be offset by any distance above or below the line that you specify.

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster and Slope Calculator for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters and buttons.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 6 Roof Lines)

Enable¶

Measure From¶

Distance¶

Left Elevation

Right Elevation

Enter the elevation (from FF to the top of the Ledger) of the right end of the Ledger. Values less than the bottom of the Panel or greater than the top of the Panel will display a warning message.

Length

Size/Top Plate/stand on (E)dge – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Trim from: – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Max Bolt Spacing – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Quan – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Inset – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Center Offset – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Bolt Size – Disabled and grayed out. These tiles are not used for Roof Lines.

Slope Calc.

This will display the Slope Calculator.

Ledger / Top Plate¶

Clicking on this toggles the display to the Ledger / Top Plate page. The toggle for the current page displayed is grayed out. A check mark in the toggle means there is an active feature on that page. If the toggle is unchecked, it means that there are no active features on that page.

Note

See Weld Connections for instructions on using Roof Lines as reference lines for Arrays.

Elevation markers will be drawn fro each different Roof Line elevation. For compound slopes, the distance to each vertex will be included as well.

Tip

When calculating the elevation of Weld Connections, the program will use only the first Roof Line it encounters, so it’s important to not make Roof Lines that overlap – for compound slopes, each one should start where the last one ended.

Chamfer¶

Chamfer (beveled edges) may be applied to either (or both) surface(s) of the main Panel and/or selected features.

Placing Chamfer

Chamfer may be placed on Main Panel, Standard Openings, Blockouts, Man Doors and Dock Levelers simply by checking the desired box.

Place Chamfer

Chamfers the upper surface of the selected feature (Near Face). The text, “[Size] Chamfer Up”, will be placed near an edge (selected for clarity) of the feature.

Down

Chamfers the lower surface of the selected feature (Far Face). The text, “[Size] Chamfer Down”, will be placed near an edge (selected for clarity) of the feature.

Both

Chamfers the both surfaces of the selected feature. The text, “[Size] Chamfer Up & Down”, will be placed near an edge (selected for clarity) of the feature.

Size

Selects the desired chamfer size: 1/2” 3/4”, or 1” (10mm, 20mm, 30mm).

Text Only

When checked, the final drawing will include the appropriate dimensioning text described above, but the Chamfer itself will not be drawn. Use this option if the Chamfering process consumes too much CPU time, or fails entirely. See Notes below.

Note

Chamfering solids is an involved and delicate process; certain combinations of Chamfering, Mitering, and Feature Strip options, when applied to intersecting features, may cause AutoCAD’s Solid Modeling operation to fail. Should this occur, simply redraw the Panel, selecting the “Text Only” option for chamfering. All of your previous editing changes will be preserved. ConstructiVision has no control over these Solid Modeling operations - see your AutoCAD manual for more information.

CPU speeds less than 100 MHz, Video RAM less than 4 MB, and insufficient system RAM (requiring extensive virtual memory paging) may create objectionable delays during the Chamfering operation, select the “Text Only” option to alleviate this problem.

The required chamfer counted in the Materials List function provided in Site Options will be segregated by the chamfer size.

Feature Strip¶

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 24 Feature Strips)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the Feature Strip, simplifying design changes and permitting pre-definition of Feature Strips in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the Feature Strip will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Feature Strip will be included in the final drawing.

Horiz/Vert

Select the type of Feature Strip you want:Horizontal or Vertical. Horizontal Feature Strips may also be sloped by entering different values for the Left and Right elevations (see below).

Horizontal Feature Strips are cosmetic enhancements on either surface of the Panel wall extending across the surface in any direction except vertical and may be arched or circular. Feature Strips may optionally be placed on the Panel sides and/or the inside edges of other Panel Features.

Vertical Feature Strips are cosmetic enhancements on either surface of the Panel wall extending vertically along the surface. Vertical Feature Strips may optionally be placed on the inside edges of other Panel Features.

Snap-to-Edge¶

This feature is very useful for making the Feature Strip begin at the edge of the Panel regardless of your selection of Distances Specified From on the Main Panel Dialog Box; i.e., Outside Face or Inside Face.. A Feature Strip can be snapped to either Left or Right and/or Top or Bottom. Please note that the actual width of the Feature Strip may be adjusted to comply with your selection of Distances Specified From on the Main Panel Dialog Box.

Left

This will snap the left edge of the Feature Strip to the left edge of the Panel, and disable the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Right.

Right

This will snap the left edge of the Feature Strip to the right edge of the Panel, and disable the Distance and From tiles. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Left.

Top

This will snap the top of a vertical feature strip to the top of the panel. This tile is disabled for horizontal Feature Strip. No elevation marker will be drawn.

Bottom

This will snap the bottom of a vertical feature strip to the bottom of the panel. This tile is disabled for horizontal Feature Strip. No elevation marker will be drawn.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance to the closest end of the Feature Strip is to be taken. The baseline dimension line will be drawn from the nearest edge of the Panel to the closest end of the Feature Strip, unless the end is coincident with the Panel side. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Distance¶

Enter the distance from the edge of the Panel to the end of the Feature Strip. A value of zero (0) will place the end of the Feature Strip on the nearest edge of the Panel. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance plus the Length greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Left Elevation

Enter the elevation (from FF to the top of the Feature Strip) of the left end of the Feature Strip. Values less than the bottom of the Panel or greater than the top of the Panel will display a warning message. Entries will be copied to Right Elevation. This tile will be disabled if Snap-to-Bottom is checked.

Right Elevation

Enter the elevation (from FF to the top of the Feature Strip) of the right end of the Feature Strip. Values less than the bottom of the Panel or greater than the top of the Panel will display a warning message. This tile will be disabled for vertical Feature Strips. Note: To facilitate the creation of complex shapes without the need for lengthy calculations, the upper ends of sloping Feature Strips are trimmed vertically so as not to exceed the distance and width measurements, and the lower ends are trimmed perpendicular to the slope. “Missing” segments between joined Feature Strips produced by this trimming will be filled in when the Panel is drawn.

Length

Enter the overall length of the Feature Strip. A value of zero (0) will extend the Feature Strip to the Panel edge. Negative values and values that make the sum of Distance plus the Length greater than the Panel perimeter will display a warning message.

Arch Radius

Enter the radius and direction of the Feature Strip arch or circle. If the absolute value is greater than half the length of the Feature Strip, the Feature Strip will be arched. Positive values produce an upward curving arch, and negative values produce a downward curving arch. If the absolute value is less than half the length of the Feature Strip, a circular Feature Strip will be drawn with its center at the specified Distance and Elevation. Values that would extend the circle outside the Panel perimeter will produce an error message. Setting this value to zero (0) creates a linear Feature Strip. This tile is disabled for vertical Feature Strips. Note: The radius is measured through the centerline of the Feature Strip. The actual radius on the outer edge of the Feature Strip arc is greater by 1/2 the width of the Feature Strip material; and the radius on the inner edge is lesser by 1/2 the width of the Feature Strip material. The actual length of arched Feature Strips is also increased by the width of the Feature Strip material to facilitate the creation of complex shapes without the need for lengthy calculations.

Special note on Slider operation: Depending on the settings of the Distance and Elevation tiles, there may be invalid values between the maximum radius to draw a circle entirely within the Panel perimeter and half the length of the Feature Strip (drawing an arch). Moving the Slider through these ranges will make it “jump” from one legal value to the next.

Strip Width

Enter the width of the Feature Strip material.

Thickness¶

Enter the thickness of the material used to form the Feature Strip.

On Face (U/D)

Selects the surface of the Panel where the Feature Strip is to be placed: “U” (Up) selects the top surface (inside the building); “D” (Down) selects the bottom surface (outside the building). Selecting both will place the Feature Strip on both surfaces. It is not possible to de-select both surfaces simultaneously, since the Feature Strip must be placed on at least one (1) surface. The default selection is Down.

Warning

Feature Strips placed Down will be referenced to the Down Face of the Panel, Feature Strips placed Up will be referenced to the Up Face, regardless of your selection of Specify Distances From:, and Casting Face Down on the Main Panel Dialog Box.

Panel Edge (L/R)

Places the Feature Strip on the selected edge of the Panel. The Feature Strip will be correctly placed on mitered sides and intersecting Pilasters/Lintels.

Inside Openings (I)

Selects whether the Feature Strip is to be placed on the inside edge of intersecting openings.

Additional pages¶

Note

Text indicating the extension of the Feature Strip on the sides of the panel and/or the inside of openings will be displayed appropriately near the edges of the feature in the final drawing.

Elevation markers will indicate the top edge of the end (or both ends if sloped) of the Feature Strip; the baseline

dimension will indicate the ends of the Feature Strip (unless coincident with the Panel sides).

Feature Strips will be trimmed from intersecting openings unless the Future? option is set (if applicable). Feature Strips placed Up that intersect Pilasters/Lintels will be placed around the edges of the intersecting Pilaster or Lintel.

Feature Strips will not be trimmed from Ledgers, Weld Connections, or Pick Points & Brace Points.

Feature Strips crossing other Feature Strips (H or V) will produce a smooth intersection with no objectionable demarcation lines if their thicknesses are equal.

The required material to form the Feature Strips will be counted in the Materials List function, and will be segregated by the size required for each Feature Strip.

Tip

With a little effort, nearly any shape Feature can be created with a combination of Horizontal and Vertical Feature Strips. While some people prefer to freehand sketch complex Features and WBLOCK them for insertion, this method has several drawbacks:

(1) Custom Features will not be subtracted from the Panel solid. (2) They will not be trimmed from openings. (3) The required material will not be included in the Materials List function. (4) Unless special methods are employed, the edges of these Custom Features will be poorly defined in both the display and the hard copy. (5) Subsequent editing of the Panel for design changes will be more difficult. (6) Unless special methods are employed, 3D rendering of the completed Project may not display correctly.

After expending the effort to create a complex Feature, simply use that Panel as a template to copy all of your work to Panels containing similar Features.

If an expanded detail drawing is required, copy any Panel containing the Feature to any drawing name you wish and load your new drawing, Freeze the Feature Layer, enter “ERASE” “ALL” at the command prompt, then Thaw the Feature Layer. This will leave only the Feature hatch pattern. Now you may edit the drawing using AutoCAD’s standard editing techniques to create the dimensions and informative text you need, then zoom and orient the Feature as desired. We recommend that you change the Feature to the Custom Layer and place all of your other information on the Custom_Dim Layer - just in case someone later edits your drawing with ConstructiVision (which will erase everything that’s not on the Custom & Custom_Dim Layers). Special note: Although ConstructiVision will not allow subsequent editing of drawings not containing valid Panel definitions, drawings created by the method above DO contain these definitions and CAN be edited even though the Panel has been erased.

Slab Dowels¶

Slab Dowels are J-shaped lengths of rebar embedded in the Panel wall that protrude from below Finished Floor (FF) and extend into the slab. They are used to anchor the Panel to the slab and/or other floors after the closure strip is poured.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 6 Rows of Slab Dowels)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Slab Dowel row, simplifying design changes and permitting pre-definition of Slab Dowel rows in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the selected Slab Dowel row will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the selected Slab Dowel row will be included in the final drawing.

Elevation¶

Enter the elevation (from FF to the center of the Slab Dowel row). Values less than the bottom of the Panel or greater than the top of the Panel will display a warning message.

Maximum Spacing

Enter the maximum spacing between the Slab Dowels. Values less than 6” or greater than half the Panel width will display a warning message. The actual spacing may be adjusted when the Panel is drawn to maintain the desired Inset.

Length

Enter the length that the Slab Dowels extend from the near face of the Panel (into the closure strip). Negative values will display a warning message.

Inset

Enter the absolute inset of the first and last Slab Dowel from the sides of the Panel (or row segment). The final inset may be adjusted to center the array of Slab Dowels in the Panel (or row segment), if overridden by the requirement for a minimum of one (1) Slab Dowel per row segment.

If Dowels intersect openings, they should:

Trim

This option will completely remove the dowels from intersecting openings.

Offset

This option will offset dowels and place them around and underneath intersecting openings

Extend from Top

This option will extend the dowels from the top of intersecting openings and “stub” them out at the row elevation.

Extend from Bottom

This option will extend the dowels from the bottom of intersecting openings and “stub” them out at the row elevation, unless the opening extends to the Panel bottom, in which case they will be automatically removed.

Note

Text indicating the Slab Dowel length, spacing, and inset will be displayed just above the Slab Dowel row in the final drawing. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Elevation markers will dimension the center of the Slab Dowel row.

Slab Dowel rows intersecting all openings will be segmented and repositioned 3” (75mm) below the opening, and adjusted for a minimum of one (1) Slab Dowel per row segment unless the Future option is set (if applicable) according to the following guidelines:

If there is less than a 3” (75mm) separation between the bottom of the opening and the bottom of the Panel, the row segment will be snapped to the bottom of the opening (tight to frame).

If there is less than a 1” (25mm) separation between the bottom of the opening and the bottom of the Panel, the Slab Dowels will be deleted from the opening.

Dock Levelers will have additional Slab Dowels added along the vertical sides of the Leveler pit for attachment to the pit walls.

The specified Spacing and Inset will be maintained for each Slab Dowel row segment unless overridden by the requirement for a minimum of one (1) Slab Dowel per row segment.

Weld Connections¶

Weld Connections are embeds placed in the Panel wall, and are typically used as points to attach other objects to the Panel after lifting. To save drafting time, and since the Fabricator will provide detail drawings for connections, ConstructiVision creates simple 3D boxes to indicate the overall size, location, and placement of Weld Connections.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box include 48 Connections)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster and Slope Calculator for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters and buttons.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Connection, simplifying design changes and permitting pre- definition of Connections in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all other tiles will be disabled and the Connection will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Connection will be included in the final drawing.

Type/Orientation

Choose any previously defined Connection type from the drop-down list. See Weld Connection Edit for information about how to create and/or change Weld Connections.

(Rotate Edge Flat)

Most connections are placed with their flat face toward the face of the panel; i.e. their width,height, and thickness are on the same planes as the width, height, and thickness of the Main Panel. You may modify this placement by selecting one or more of the following options:

This will rotate the connection 90 degrees clockwise (the height and width will be interchanged). Most commonly used when the same type of connection needs to be placed in a different configuration. This selection can be used in conjunction with E and F to place the connection in any orientation.

This will rotate the connection so the flat face is toward the nearest edge of the Panel (the width and thickness will be interchanged). Most commonly used for corner connections.

This will rotate the connection so the flat face is toward the top or bottom of the Panel (the height and thickness will be interchanged). Most commonly used for roof joist and Spandrel connections..

Snap-to-Edge¶

This feature is very useful for placing Weld Connections on the Panel edges. A Connection can be snapped to either Left and/or Right, and/or Top or Bottom.

Left

This will snap the left edge of the Connection to the left edge of the Panel and disable the Distance and From tiles. No dimension line will be drawn.

Right

This will snap the right edge of the Connection to the right edge of the Panel and disable the Distance and From tiles. No dimension line will be drawn.

Top

This will snap the top edge of the Connection to the top edge of the Panel and disable the Elevation tile. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge - Bottom if set. No elevation marker will be drawn.

Bottom

This will snap the bottom edge of the Connection to the bottom edge of the Panel and disable the Elevation tile. Also turns off Snap-to-Edge -Top. No elevation marker will be drawn.

Warning

Connections may be simultaneously snapped Left and Right to produce identical connections on each edge of the Panel. This is useful for Panel-to-Panel connections that are at the same elevation.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance measurement to the center of the Connection is to be taken.

Distance (C/PL) / (Array Inset)

Enter the distance from the edge of the Panel to the center of the plate (C/PL). If Horizontal Array is selected, enter the distance to the first plate (see below).

Elevation IMPORTANT NOTE: You can offset Weld Connections at a specified distance above or below the Roof Line. See Tips below.

C/PL - T/Pl

Specifies whether you are entering the elevations to Center of Plate (C/Pl) or Top of Plate (T/Pl), depending on how they are specified on your plans. If T/Pl is selected, the plate (or array) will be lowered by half the height of the plate. All elevation markers on the drawing will show the actual elevation to C/Pl, regardless of this setting.

Left

For single connections, enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the plate (C/PL or T/Pl as selected above). For vertical arrays, enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the lowest plate. For horizontal arrays (or combination arrays), enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the “String Line” where it would cross the left down face of the Panel.

Right

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor to the “String Line” where it would cross the right down face of the Panel. This tile is disabled unless the H Array option is selected.

On Face¶

Places the Connection on the top surface of the Panel and adjusts the location if snapped to a mitered edge of the Panel. Connections intersecting Recesses, Pilasters, or Lintels will be automatically adjusted to the upper surface of the intersecting feature.

Down

Places the Connection on the bottom surface of the Panel and adjusts the location if snapped to a mitered edge of the Panel. Connections intersecting Recesses will be automatically adjusted to the lower surface of the intersecting feature.

Warning

Connections may be simultaneously placed Up and Down to produce identical connections on each face of the Panel. This is useful for Panel-to-Panel connections at square joints.

Z Offset¶

Enter the actual distance from center of the Connection to the down face of the Panel if it is not to be on either the Up or Down Face This option is most commonly used for connections that are placed flat on an edge of the Panel for Panel-to-Panel corner connections, or Spandrel connections. By unchecking both Up and Down, and leaving this value at zero (0), the connections will automatically be placed in the center of the Panel thickness. This tile will be disabled if either Up or Down is checked. Please note that Connections intersecting Recesses, Pilasters, or Lintels will not be adjusted for Z Offset unless the “Up” or “Down” options are used.

Array

Use the Array options to generate evenly spaced Weld Connections across and/or up the Panel. H (Horizontal) and V (Vertical) Arrays can be used in combination.

Horizontal Arrays can be used for Roof Joist, Floor Joist, Canopy, and Mezzanine supports. Enables the Right Elevation, H Array Spacing, and H Quan tiles (see below). Arrays measured from, the Left will be sequenced from the left. Arrays measured from, the Right will be sequenced from the right. For sloped arrays, a “String Line” will be included on the final Drawing to simplify embed placement.

Vertical Arrays can be used for Panel-to-Panel connections or in combination with horizontal arrays for multiple floor levels with the same horizontal spacing. Enables the V Array Spacing and V Quan tiles (see below).

Spacing H Enter the horizontal spacing between connections from center of plate to center of plate (usually the same spacing called out on the Structural Plans). For sloped arrays, if the actual distance between connections is more than 1/16” than the horizontal spacing, an additional baseline dimension will be included on the drawing (parallel to the “String Line”).

V Enter the vertical spacing between connections from center of plate to center of plate (usually the same spacing called out on the Structural Plans).

Quan H Enter the quantity (number) of connections to be included in the array. If zero (0) is entered, the actual number of plates will be calculated at run time to extend the array across the Panel without extending beyond it.

V Enter the quantity (number) of connections to be included in the array. If zero (0) is entered, the actual number of plates will be calculated at run time to extend the array to the top of the Panel without extending beyond it.

Pocket

Use the pocket options to create a joist, girder, or chord connection pocket around or above the embed.

Enter the width of the pocket. It will be centered on the embed.

Enter the height of the pocket.

Enter the elevation of the bottom of the pocket in reference to the top of the embed. A 0” value will place the pocket directly above the embed.

Enter the depth of the pocket.

Edit Connections

This will display the Weld Connection Edit Dialog Box for creating or re-defining Connections.

Slope Calc.

This will display the Slope Calculator.

Additional pages¶

Clicking on any of these toggles displays the selected page. The toggle for the current page displayed is grayed out. A check mark in the toggle means there is an active feature on that page. If the toggle is unchecked, it means that there are no active features on that page. The labels “Footing”, “Panel”, “2nd Flr”, “3rd Flr”, “4th Flr”, “5th Flr”, “Misc”, and “Roof” are simply for your convenience to group Weld Connections by category; you may change these descriptions at any time without effecting your drawings. Please note that your changes will be reflected in all Panels in your current Project.

Note

A list of Connection definitions for each Project is maintained in a separate file (wc.dll), located in the same Directory as the Panel drawings for the Project. Only the internal reference ID number, location, and placement settings are stored in the Panel drawing. This list is updated each time a Connection is created, modified, or deleted; thus making this information instantly available to all Panels in the Project. Please note that, if you change the dimensions of a connection, your change will not be reflected on any Panel drawing until the Panel is redrawn. It is recommended that you use the Batch Utilities Update Drawings option after you change any connection.

The number and types of Connections required for each Panel will be included on the final drawing.

The number of Connections counted in the Materials List function provided in Batch Utilities or Site Options will be segregated by the Connection Type for each Panel.

Tip

To place panel-to-panel weld connections on both edges, select both snap to Right and snap to Left.

Connections may also be used to define and place any other kind of embed. Please note that you do not need to create Door Guard embeds for Dock Levelers; simply check the toggle labeled “Door Guard” in the Dock Leveler Dialog box.

To place adjacent Connections at a specified horizontal or vertical separation, simply enter the “+” symbol ahead of the desired separation between the Connections in the Distance or Elevation Edit Box for the second (or subsequent) Connection. (If the required tile is disabled, simply enable it by de-selecting the Snap-to-Edge function). The distance from the appropriate Panel side or elevation will be calculated for you and all other values will be copied from the Connection above; you may then make any adjustments required. Please note that the value will be calculated from the center of the source Connection. If the resulting sum of the calculated distance or elevation and copied dimensions exceed the Panel perimeter, a warning will be displayed.

Elevation Markers and Horizontal spacing will be drawn near the connection location. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You can offset Weld Connections at a specified distance above or below the Roof Line. Here’s how to do it: From the Main Panel Dialog Box, select “Ledgers/Top Plates”. You’ll see a page there called “Roof Lines”. Just enter the elevations and distances that you need on that page (everything else is grayed out).

Once the Roof Lines are drawn, you can make the weld plates track them by entering the letter “R” in the “Left Elevation” field (upper or lower case) in the Weld Connections Dialog Box. The words “Roof Line” will be inserted in that field for you and you can now enter the offset distance from the line in the “Right Elevation” field.

At run time, the program will look for the intersection of the horizontal center of plate with the Roof Line and set the elevation to the plate above or below the line by the offset distance you specified. Bear in mind that the program will use only the first Roof Line it encounters, so it’s important to not make Roof Lines that overlap – for compound slopes, each one should start where the last one ended. The line itself will be drawn as a dashed line in olive green on the greenplate layer. Elevation markers will be marked “Roof Line”, and for compound slopes, both the elevation and distance will be dimensioned for you.

For single plates, the elevation markers will be drawn as usual. For arrays, no elevation marker will be drawn, but the appropriate wording will be appended to the array spacing. For example:

If you selected C/Pl in the Weld Plate Dialog Box:

“6 Spaces MK_2A Up @ 4’-0” o.c C/Pl 9 1/2” below Roof Line”

Or if you selected T/Pl.:

“6 Spaces MK_2A Up @ 4’-0” o.c. T/Pl 9 1/2” below Roof Line”

This feature should save you a lot of time – especially if a redline comes back that specifies a different offset. Just enter the new offset in one panel, then do a Relative Global Update on all panels. Don’t do an Absolute Global Update, as it will make all the panels have identical arrays. Relative will only change the offset, won’t change the distance or spacing, and won’t turn the array on if it’s off.

Weld Connection Edit

This tool is used for defining and modifying the various connections and embeds to be inserted into the Panel and Site drawings. True 3D connections will be displayed and identified according to the information you enter. Your changes will be immediately available to all drawings in the Project.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 36 Connections Types)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

This is an internal ID number used for cross reference and may not be changed.

Type

Enter a unique Connection identifier. This will be the identifying text printed on the final drawing and included in the Materials List function.

Width¶

Enter the width of the Connection (along the X-axis). Any value other than positive will display a warning message.

Height¶

Enter the height of the Connection (along the Y-axis). Any value other than positive will display a warning message.

Thickness¶

Enter the thickness of the Connection (along the Z-axis). Any value other than positive will display a warning message.

Structural ID

Enter the Structural ID number, this information is not printed in the final drawing, but will be included in the Materials List for cross reference.

Fabricator ID

Enter the Fabricator ID number, this information is not printed in the final drawing, but will be included in the Materials List for cross reference.

Description

Enter the description of the Connection, this information is not printed in the final drawing, but will be included in the Materials List for cross reference.

Note

Just as changing a value in a Dialog Box cannot change a hard copy already printed, neither can it change drawings already drawn. Existing Panels containing any Connection that has been deleted or modified will not display correctly until updated. Use the Update function provided in Batch Utilities to update (and optionally print) Panels containing the Connection.

A list of Connection definitions for each Project is maintained in a separate file (wc.dll) located in the same Directory as the Panel drawings for the Project. Only the internal reference ID number, location and placement settings are stored in the Panel drawing.

Tip

Either the Width, Height, and/or Thickness may be greater than the Panel perimeter for specialized connections that protrude from the Panels.

To import a “bank” of Weld Connections from another Project, simply create a new Panel drawing in your current Project and select any one of the Panel drawings in the target Project to be used as a template and select “Yes” when

asked if you want to import Weld Connections.

Pick Points¶

Pick Points are embeds placed in the Panel wall used to attach the lifting harness during Lifting. ConstructiVision creates a simple triangular hatch pattern to mark the center of these points.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 8 Columns & 8 Rows)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Pick Point row, simplifying design changes and permitting pre- definition of Pick Points in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all associated tiles will be disabled and the Pick Point row will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Pick Point row will be included in the final drawing.

B/Pnl - T/Pnl - Top Edge Lift

To conform with the standards used by various Lift Engineering firms, you may select different options for entering elevations. Unless one of these toggles is checked, the data you enter in the Elevation tile will be interpreted as the elevation from Finished Floor. Regardless of which option you select, the dimensions shown on the Panel Drawings will be from Finished Floor. B

Checking this toggle will cause the data you enter in the Elevation tile to be interpreted as the distance from Bottom-of-Panel.

Checking this toggle will cause the data you enter in the Elevation tile to be interpreted as the distance from Top- of-Panel.

Top Pick

This option disables the B, T, and Elevation tiles and places the Pick Point on the top of the panel.

Elevation¶

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor, or the distance from the Top or Bottom-of-Panel as specified above, to the center of the Pick Point row. A value equal to the bottom or top of the Panel will place the Pick Point row at that elevation; however, these locations are not suitable for lifting. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values greater than the Panel top will display a warning message.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance measurement of the Pick Point column is to be taken.

Column 1-8

Column 1 is the distance from the edge of the Panel to the center of the Pick Point column, depending upon the side from which it is being measured. A value of zero (0) will place the Pick Point on the nearest edge of the Panel; however, this location is not suitable for proper lifting. Negative values and values greater than the Panel width will display a warning message. The distance entered for all other columns is the distance from the previous column. Entering zero (0) displays a blank entry and disables all subsequent tiles.

Warning

The distance to Column 1 must be specified from Edge of Panel, regardless of the Distances Specified From: setting in the Main Panel Dialog Box.

Type

Manufacturer’s part number or description for pick anchor

Note

The computed center of lift will always (except during batch operations) be compared to the center of gravity. A warning message will be issued if the variance is more than 1” (25mm) along the X axis, or if the center of lift is below 66% of the Panel weight or above 85% (unless Top or Edge lifts are employed).

The number of Pick Points counted in the Materials List will be segregated by the part name or number entered in the Type Edit Box. If the Type filed is left blank, they will be segregated by the size required for each Panel thickness (Top Picks will be counted separately).

Columns

Points that are placed in a vertical line form columns. Each column has a maximum of eight rows. A dimension line indicating the distance between each column of Pick Points and the distance from the first and last column to the Panel sides will be placed above the top of the panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Rows

Points that are placed in a horizontal line form rows. Each row has a maximum of eight columns. An elevation marker will be placed next to the left side of the panel in each row.

Brace Points¶

Brace Points are embeds placed in the Panel wall used to attach the braces to before lifting. ConstructiVision creates a simple circular hatch pattern to mark the center of these points.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 6 Columns & 6 Rows)

Also see Slide/Edit Cluster for help on the operation of these specialized tile clusters.

Enable¶

This toggle enables or disables drawing of the selected Brace Point row, simplifying design changes and permitting pre-definition of Brace Points in a drawing used as a template for other Panels. When unchecked, all associated tiles will be disabled and the Brace Point row will not be included in the final drawing. When checked, all applicable tiles will be enabled and the Brace Point row will be included in the final drawing.

B/Pnl - T/Pnl

Checking this toggle will cause the data you enter in the Elevation tile to be interpreted as the distance from Bottom-of-Panel.

Checking this toggle will cause the data you enter in the Elevation tile to be interpreted as the distance from Top- of-Panel.

Elevation¶

Enter the elevation from Finished Floor, or the distance from the Top or Bottom-of-Panel as specified above, to the center of the Brace Point row. A value equal to the bottom or top of the Panel will place the Brace Point row at that elevation; however, these locations are not suitable for bracing. Values less than the bottom of the Panel and values greater than the Panel top will display a warning message.

Measure From¶

The Left & Right buttons specify from which edge of the Panel the distance measurement of the Brace Point column is to be taken.

Column 1-6

Column 1 is the distance from the edge of the Panel to the center of the Brace Point column, depending upon the side from which it is being measured. A value of zero (0) will place the Brace Point on the nearest edge of the Panel; however, this location is not suitable for proper bracing. Negative values and values greater than the Panel width will display a warning message. The distance entered for all other columns is the distance from the previous column. Entering zero (0) displays a blank entry and disables all subsequent tiles.

Warning

The distance to Column 1 must be specified from Edge of Panel, regardless of the Distances Specified From: setting in the Main Panel Dialog Box.

Type

Enter the manufacturer’s part number or description for the brace anchor.

Extension

Enter the manufacturer’s part number or description for the brace extension (if needed).

Note

The number of Brace Points and extensions counted in the Materials List function will be segregated by the part name or number entered in the Type and Extension Edit Boxes. If the Type filed is left blank, they will be segregated by the size required for each Panel thickness.

Columns

Points that are placed in a vertical line form a column. Each column has a maximum of six rows. A dimension line indicating the distance between each column of Brace Points and the distance from the first and last column to the Panel sides will be placed above the top of the panel. See Dimensioning Conventions for more information.

Rows

Points that are placed in a horizontal line form a row. Each row has a maximum of six columns. An elevation marker will be placed next to the left side of the panel in each row.

Revision History

Revisions are design changes made to the Panel after it has been drawn to specifications and released for fabrication. It is necessary to track Revisions for budgetary and legal reasons.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 10 Revisions boxes)

Selecting Revision from the Main Panel Dialog Box will display the Revision Dialog Box to record design changes. A Revision Stamp showing the most recent revision number and date/time will automatically be placed in the final drawing, if any revision data is entered. A complete Revision History may be printed for any single Panel, or any group of Panels, using the Batch Utilities option.

Global Changes

Global changes are changes and modifications applied to multiple Panels at the same time. Caution: This operation can change every Panel in your Project - use it with care.

Select Panels:

Use this Multiple Select List Box to select (highlight) the Panels to which you want to apply this operation. Multiple selections may be made using the CTRL and SHIFT keys in the standard Windows manner. Only the Panel currently in your Project will be displayed in the list. If the list is longer than can be displayed in the space available, a scroll bar will allow you to navigate the list.

Apply absolute changes:

Each feature you changed in the current Panel will be copied exactly into the Panels you select above. Use this option to add, remove, or change identical features in all selected Panels. A Warning detailing the list of changes you made will be issued requesting confirmation before the operation proceeds.

Apply relative changes:

Only the difference in the features you changed in the current Panel will be applied to the Panels you select above. This option is useful for changing the elevations of sloped weld plate arrays, Feature Strip elevations, etc. For example, if you change the elevation of Feature Strip # 4 in the current panel by 1/2”, the elevation of Feature Strip #4 will be changed in all selected Panels by 1/2” without effecting any other setting: Distance, Length, Strip Width, etc. A Warning detailing the list of changes you made will be issued requesting confirmation before the operation proceeds.

Undo previous Global operation:

Use this option to undo the previous Global Change. A Warning requesting confirmation will be issued before the operation proceeds. Note: Unlike the Undo option in the Main Panel Dialog Box, the Global Undo operation can only be performed once.

Note

The Global Changes option is intended for simplifying design changes that affect multiple Panels, making it possible to change one Panel and apply those changes to several Panels. If you have not standardized your Panel Features, the Global Changes option may overwrite existing Features in the target Panels that you did not intend to be overwritten. Should this happen, simply select the Undo option from the Global Changes Dialog Box to undo all of your changes, or from the Main Panel Dialog Box to undo selected Panels. It is highly recommended that you inspect each Panel for accuracy after the operation has completed.

Drawings converted from versions of ConstructiVision prior to 4.0 may have had the order of the Panel Features changed during the conversion process. Be VERY careful when using Global Changes on these Panels.

Tip

To simplify making subsequent design changes, it is most strongly recommended that you create the most intricate Panel in you Project first, then use it as a template to create the next Panel, and that one as a template to create the next, and so on. Using this method will ensure that all of your Panel Features are drawn in the same order in each Panel (i.e., the data for Blockout number eight is the same size in the same location in every Panel even if it is turned off).

Batch Utilities¶

This set of utility functions will make updating and printing drawings easier and more efficient. No need to wait for each Panel to print just to load the next one to print a Panel Book. In addition, it will remember which Panels were modified on what days so you can print only the revised drawings.

Select Operation¶

Print Panel Book¶

Prints the panel book to the default AutoCAD printer. Although the drawings will be zoomed and centered, if needed, to print to scale - and de-selected Layers will be turned off - these changes will not be saved, and your most recent view will be preserved.

Print Materials List¶

This will print a list of materials required for Panel construction. It includes a Panel count and quantities for concrete yardage, form material, anchor bolts, chamfer, feature strips, pick points, brace points, braces, extensions, and embeds. This command creates or overwrites the matlist.txt file in the current Project Directory for subsequent reference, editing, and/or printing. This file may be edited with any text editor or imported into any word processor. Depending on the complexity of your Project and the speed of your CPU, this option may require a significant amount of time to complete, but it is accurate down to the last anchor bolt and thousands of times faster than a manual count. Special Note: Since many companies do not use Common Form construction methods, ConstructiVision does not subtract their lineal footage from the Materials List.

Print Revision History¶

Prints a complete list of Revisions for each selected Panel, making it possible to conveniently track design changes for budgetary and legal purposes.

Update Drawings¶

This will update the selected drawings to reflect any Project-wide changes (such as Weld Connection re- definition) or to simplify implementation of future ConstructiVision program revisions. This command also resets the Layers and saved views to their default states.

Export Data File¶

Creates a compact data file in the current Project Directory suitable for e-mail or disk transfer to the selected firm. This file can be compressed with any program compatible with WINZIP to save time and space before transfer. If ConstructiVision is the selected To/From: firm, complete data for all selected Panels will be exported. Otherwise, only the necessary Panel information for Engineering Stress Analysis and Brace and Lifting hardware

placement will be exported and similar Panels will be located and listed automatically so you will incur charges on unique Panel configurations only. Enables To/From: if selected. Using this option for engineering will facilitate rapid turn-around (72 - 96 hours) and may provide discounts on engineering service charges. The data file will be created in the same directory that your Project is in.

Import Data File¶

Reads the appropriate data file in any Directory from the selected firm. As this file may be compressed, be certain it is uncompressed before proceeding. If ConstructiVision is the import source firm, each panel defined in the data file will be reconstructed. Otherwise, only the necessary Panel Engineering Data will be imported and each Panel defined will be updated with all Brace and Lifting hardware in place. Panels will not be completely redrawn, and all of your previous changes will be preserved. Enables To/From: if selected.

To/From: - Select the target or source firm you wish to use. Currently, ConstructiVision has approved the following firms:

ConstructiVision 7306 Oxford Court NW Bremerton, WA 98311 USA 1-360-633-7773 FAX: 1 1-360-633-7773 E-mail address: support@constructivision.com The data file name will be [My Panel Prefix]_CSV.pnl.

Dayton/Richmond Engineering Dallas/Fort Worth Service Center 1202 Avenue T Grand Prairie, TX 75050 USA 1-972-988-1088 or 1-800-745-3703 FAX: 1-972-988-1690 E-mail Address: LeroyCaldwell@DaytonSuperior.com The data file name will be [My Panel Prefix]_ENGINEERING.pdx.

Meadow-Burke Engineering 231-A Lathrop Way Sacramento, CA 95815 USA 1-916-920-2876 FAX: 1-916-648-2876 E-mail Address: scollins@meadowburke.com The data file name will be [My Panel Prefix]_ENGINEERING.txt.

SCL Consultants Pty Ltd Suit 8, 18 Cecil St, Ashfield, Sydney, NSW 2131 61-2-97983097 Australia FAX: 61-2-97970762 E-mail address: sales@tiltmax.com The data file name will be [My Panel Prefix]_ENGINEERING.ctm.

WSB Engineering 118-3855 Henning Drive Burnaby, BC V5C6N3 Canada 1-604-294-3753 FAX: 1-604-294-3754 E-mail address: gerry@wsb-eng.com The data file name will be [My Panel Prefix]_ENGINEERING.pan.

Select Panels¶

Select All

Selects all Panels in the Project.

Clear All

Clears previous selection.

Sort Panels by:

Panel Number¶

Sorts panels in ascending order.

Reverse Number

Sorts panels in descending order

Date Modified

Sorts panels by date modified (most recent first).

Reverse Date

Sorts panels by date modified (oldest first).

Printing Options¶

Print All Layers

Prints all Layers of the selected Panels to the default AutoCAD printer and disables the Layer Selection tiles.

Print Selected Layers for special Panel Books

Prints only the selected Layers, the associated Dimension Layers, and any Layers required for clarity, of the selected Panels to the default AutoCAD printer.

Print Order

This eliminates the need to manually reorder and collate your Panel Book after printing.

Normal

Prints the selected Panels in alphanumerical order (lowest to highest).

Reverse

Prints the selected Panels in reverse alphanumerical order (highest to lowest).

HIDE hidden lines?

When creating or editing a drawing, you work on the wireframe representation of an object or surface and use the hiding process only to verify the current placement of those surfaces. When viewed or plotted as wireframes, complex drawings often appear too cluttered to convey useful information. Hiding background objects that in reality would be obscured by objects in the foreground simplifies the display and clarifies the design. Calculating and obscuring hidden lines can be time-consuming, however. Special Note: Weld Connections may be hidden by this command.

Note

Warnings are suspended during Batch operations to permit unattended completion of the Batch process. To quickly transfer Panel data to and from laptops and/or remote computers, use the To/From: ConstructiVision option. The compact data file can be imported by the remote computer and all Panels will be redrawn automatically. Please note that this option does not transfer objects on the Custom Layers, nor does it transfer the Site Drawing. This is a convenient option to use when sending sample Drawings along with your Tech Support request.

Warning and Progress messages are suspended during Batch operations to allow the selected operations to complete without interruption.

To stop Batch processing at any time, hold down the Escape key.

Tip

Use the Selected Layers option to quickly print a variety of complete or partial Panel Books that hide unneeded features and their associated dimensions, to “clean up” the drawings and make them easier to follow. Effective use of this technique may use up some ink and paper, but will help to prevent errors in Panel construction.

After invoking Batch Utilities, you can continue working on the Site Drawings in the current Project or any Drawing in another Project by minimizing this session of AutoCAD and loading another session. When the Batch operation is completed, this AutoCAD session will return to full screen automatically with a confirmation that the Batch operation was successful.

Site Drawing Options¶

Grid Lines¶

Choosing this option will display the Grid Lines Dialog Box, allowing you to define and/or modify the site Grid Lines. If selected with a Site Drawing that has Grid Lines defined, the Grid Lines Dialog Box will display the previous values, otherwise it will display default entries.

Wall Lines¶

Choosing this option will display the Wall Lines Dialog Box, allowing you to define and/or modify the site Wall Lines. If selected with a Site Drawing that has Wall Lines defined, the Wall Line Dialog Box will display the previous values, otherwise it will display default entries.

Slab Lines¶

Choosing this option will display the Slab Lines Dialog Box, allowing you to define and/or modify the site Slab. If selected with a Site drawing that has defined slab, the Dialog Box will display the previous values, otherwise it will display default entries. This release only provides for a 2D slab outline. An upgrade will be available in a future release to provide for full Solid Modeling capabilities.

Footing Connection Layout¶

To use this option, you must first have the footing embeds placed in the Panels and have the Panels attached to the Site Drawing. This will locate all embeds below Finished Floor and draw baseline dimensions from each Grid to the embeds on the Ftg Conn Layout Tab. The Ftg Conn Layout tab will display a “3D slice” of the Site Drawing Aerial View that shows everything below Finished Floor and hides everything above. You should print this Layout for your Footing Embed Placement Crew to avoid mistakes in aligning the embeds in the footing with the embeds in the Panels.

2nd Floor Joist/Girder Layout

Use this option to create the Joist and Girder arrays for the Second Floor or Mezzanine. After entering the information in the Joist/Girder Dialog Box, the Joist and Girder arrays will be drawn and dimensioned on a separate layer in the Site Drawing. If the Panels are attached (or when they are attached later), additional dimensions will be drawn from the Panel Joints to the closest Joist or Girder to facilitate placing the embeds in the Panel Drawings and checking their accuracy. If Joist arrays are drawn when you use the Create or Modify Viewports option (see below), an additional Layout Tab will be created which will display a “3D slice” of the Site Drawing Aerial View that shows everything at the Second Floor elevation and hides everything above and below it. Using this Layout tab to Pan and Zoom around the Site to check your Second Floor embed alignment will be much faster and easier than tying to view the embeds at all elevations (as they are shown in the Model tab). Note: Due to an AutoCAD limitation, you may not see the Panel outlines, but the Joists and Embeds will be visible.

3rd Floor Joist/Girder Layout

Use this option to create the Joist and Girder arrays for the Third Floor. After entering the information in the Joist/Girder Dialog Box, the Joist and Girder arrays will be drawn and dimensioned on a separate layer in the Site Drawing. If the Panels are attached (or when they are attached later), additional dimensions will be drawn from the Panel Joints to the closest Joist or Girder to facilitate placing the embeds in the Panel Drawings and checking their

accuracy. If Joist arrays are drawn when you use the Create or Modify Viewports option (see below), an additional Layout Tab will be created which will display a “3D slice” of the Site Drawing Aerial View that shows everything at the Third Floor elevation and hides everything above and below it. Using this Layout tab to Pan and Zoom around the Site to check your Third Floor embed alignment will be much faster and easier than tying to view the embeds at all elevations (as they are shown in the Model tab). Note: Due to an AutoCAD limitation, you may not see the Panel outlines, but the Joists and Embeds will be visible.

Roof Joist/Girder Layout

Use this option to create the Joist and Girder arrays for the Roof. After entering the information in the Joist/Girder Dialog Box, the Joist and Girder arrays will be drawn and dimensioned on a separate layer in the Site Drawing. If the Panels are attached (or when they are attached later), additional dimensions will be drawn from the Panel Joints to the closest Joist or Girder to facilitate placing the embeds in the Panel Drawings and checking their accuracy. If Joist arrays are drawn when you use the Create or Modify Viewports option (see below), an additional Layout Tab will be created which will display a “3D slice” of the Site Drawing Aerial View that shows everything at and above the Roof elevation and hides everything below it. Using this Layout tab to Pan and Zoom around the Site to check your Roof embed alignment will be much faster and easier than tying to view the embeds at all elevations (as they are shown in the Model tab).

Attach Panels¶

Attaches all of the Panels listed in the Wall Lines Dialog Box to the Site Drawing as external references (XREFs) to their final (standing) positions on the footings at the specified spacing. This option requires that certain information be present in the Site Drawing, and may fail if the Site Drawing was created outside of the ConstructiVision program or if the creation process was aborted before the completion of the Wall Line and Panel Location functions.

Detach Panels¶

Detaches all Panels from the Site Drawing. Use this option if you discover errors in panel widths, spacing, sequence, or location in the final 3D Site Drawing. These errors must be corrected and then the Panels can be re-attached. It is not necessary to detach Panels to show recent design changes unless the Panel widths have been changed. (This affects the location of all Panels on the same Wall Line.) All other Panel modifications will be accurately reflected when the Site Drawing is reopened, or if AutoCAD’s XREF, RELOAD command is issued.

Create or Modify Viewports¶

Quickly create several standard views for printing and/or inspection “walk-throughs”. Existing custom viewports will not be changed. Viewports labeled “Layout (n)” will be deleted. You may change or delete any unneeded views.

Construction Layout¶

If no previously saved Layout exists, all Panels will be 3D Rotated and arrayed in rows outside the Grid Lines at the specified Construction Gap (which may be different from the Standing Gap) with their bottom surfaces elevated to the top surface of the Slab, and a new Construction Layout will be saved. If you prefer, you can print the Construction Layout and snip off the panels in sections to use as “Paper dolls” to manually create your construction layout, or you may now easily move or stack either single Panels or groups of Panels to the Slab and/or Rat Slab for construction. Otherwise this option quickly returns all Panels to their previously saved construction positions. Special Note: Specifying a spacing of 1 1/2” (75mm) (default) will facilitate the use of Common Form construction and save on form material.

Tilt-up Panels¶

Quickly returns all Panels to their final standing positions. Any changes you made to the Construction Layout will automatically be saved.

Print Site Layouts¶

Displays a multiple Selection List of all the Layout tabs in your Drawing. You can select any combination of Layouts for printing by holding down the Ctrl Key and clicking on your choices. When ready, click OK to proceed to the Printer Selection Dialog Box.

Print Materials List¶

Displays and prints a list of materials required for Panel construction. Includes a Panel count and concrete yardage, form material, fasteners, chamfer, feature strips, pick points, brace points, braces, extensions, and embeds. Creates or overwrites the matlist.txt file in the current Project Directory for subsequent reference, editing, and/or printing. This file may be edited with any text editor or imported into any word processor. Depending on the complexity of your Project and the speed of your CPU, this option may require a significant amount of time to complete - but it is accurate down to the last anchor bolt and thousands of times faster than a manual count. Special Note: Since many companies do not use common forms, ConstructiVision does not subtract their lineal footage from the Materials List.

Note

OK and Cancel simply close the Dialog Box. If no ConstructiVision Drawing file is open, most of the tiles will be disabled, otherwise only the tiles associated with the type of Drawing open will be active.

All Panels are attached as external references (XREFs) both to insure that all of the latest Panel revisions will be

reflected in the Site Drawing each time it is loaded and to minimize the size of the Site Drawing file. Be aware that Panels revised while the Site Drawing is loaded will be out-of-date unless they are re-loaded with AutoCAD’s “XREF” “RELOAD” command. See AutoCAD Help for information on how to use this command.

ConstructiVision sets the VISRETAIN system variable to one (1) to allow the Layer Settings of the current Site Drawing to take precedence over the Layer settings of the individual Panels.

Tip

After the Panels are attached to the Site Drawing, hundreds of thousands of entities may be present. A significant amount of time will be saved in navigating and editing your Site Drawing if you freeze Layer ‘0’ (which will “hide” all of the Panels). This option is provided in the View Selected Layers Dialog Box, and is automatic when Edit Existing Site is invoked. Caution: Layer ‘0’ will be thawed by the View All Layers, Attach Panels, Layout Panels, Tilt-up Panels, and Print All Layer commands.

Saving the Site Drawing with Layer ‘0’ frozen will reduce the time required to re-open it later.

Since Layer ‘0’ is used for Panel attachment, and as a “Master Panel Control” as described above, creating custom objects on Layer ‘0’ is not recommended.

Due to the non-standardization of Architectural plans, many people prefer to create a variety of custom Layers in their Site Drawings. If you create these Layers before attaching any Panels, the Layer names will be displayed ahead of the attached Panel Layers in AutoCAD’s Layer Controls, making them easier to locate in the Drop-Down List Boxes.

If you have created a Layer after Panel attachment and wish it to be listed ahead of the attached Panel Layers, simply Detach and then re-Attach the Panels.

If you wish to have your custom Layers controlled by ConstructiVision’s Select Layer commands, give them any of the following names: connections, connections_dim, feature, feature_dim, points, points_dim, greenplate, greenplate_dim, perimeter, perimeter_dim, solid, solid_dim, custom, custom_dim, or hardware. Please note that the perimeter and perimeter_dim Layers will always be turned off by ConstructiVision, and the solid and solid_dim Layers will always be turned on (unless Layer ‘0’ is frozen); otherwise, avoid the use of Layer names containing these strings.

Placing all of your anchor bolts, steel, and hardware on a custom Layer named “hardware” will speed up operations when the “HIDE” command is invoked, as ConstructiVision will turn off the “hardware” Layers before issuing the “HIDE” command - since it is not normally necessary to view Slab Dowels, anchor bolts, nuts, washers, etc., in a rendered Site Drawing, and these objects each have multiple lines to hide. Don’t put your Weld Connections on these layers, however, you may need to see how they align with the Panel Weld Connections.

Multiple Site Drawings may be created to show different construction layouts and/or views.

Grid Lines¶

Grid Lines are used to locate all other entities in you Site Drawing. X Grids are dimensioned from left to right, and the Grid Lines are vertical. Y Grids are dimensioned from top to bottom, and the Grid Lines are horizontal.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 60 X and 60 Y Grid Lines)

Current Selection

Vert Grids (X) Left to Right

Displays the current X Grid definitions for editing.

Hor Grids (Y) Top to Bottom

Displays the current Y Grid definitions for editing.

Top of Drawing Faces

North / South / East / West

Click the selection that most closely matches your Site Plans. This will be used to properly label the plotting layouts for the Site Drawings.

Clear Current Selection

Clicking this button clears all of your entries so you can start over from scratch.

Reverse Grid Order

Clicking this button reverses the order of the Grids.

Grid Details:

Grid #

This Edit Box allows identification of the Grid Line. A decimal point is needed to separate the primary Grid number from the sub-Grid number. For example: Grid number 2.2 will be drawn after Grid number 2, and Grid number 22 will be drawn after Grid number 21; Grid number AA will be drawn after Grid number Z, and Grid number A.A will be drawn after Grid number A. Either numbers or letters may be used to define the Grids.

Spacing

Use this Edit Box to specify the spacing between the grids. The first X and Y Grid intersection (used as the reference point) will be at the top left corner of your Site Drawing. X Grids will be drawn in the order listed from left to right. Y Grids will be drawn in the order listed from top to bottom.

Note

After pressing OK, all previous Grids will be erased. The Grids will be redrawn, and the new values stored in the drawing.

Tip

To quickly preset your Grids, simply type the first Grid number in the first Edit Box and press Enter. The next Grid number will be entered for you automatically. If you begin with either A or 1, subsequent Grid numbers will be assigned in ascending order; i.e., 1 to 10 or A to Z. Choosing any beginning Grid number other than A or 1 will assign subsequent Grid numbers in descending order; i.e. 10 to 1 or Z to A. After entering your second Grid number and pressing Enter, type the spacing from the second Grid to the first and press Enter. Now each time you press Enter, the Grid numbers will be assigned and the previous spacing will be copied for you automatically. You may change the Grid number and/or spacing at any time.

To insert a Grid between two other grids, select the location where you want to insert the Grid, change its Grid number, and press Enter. A Dialog Box will appear asking if you want to insert a new Grid at this location or simply change the number of the existing Grid.

To delete a Grid, simply erase the Grid number from the desired Edit Box and press Enter.

The spacing between any two Grids may be changed at any time.

Wall Lines¶

Wall Lines are used to locate and place the Panels in your Site Drawing.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 160 Line Segments)

Enable¶

Displays the line segment number for each row of segments for reference purposes. Turning selected Wall Lines off allows Panel attachment of selected Site elevations to be drawn.

|—-Beginning of Line—-| Vert (X) Hor (Y)

This Drop-Down List specifies the X and Y Grid reference to the beginning of the Wall Line segment.

X Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the X offset distance, if any, from the X reference Grid. Use positive distances to offset to the left and negative distances to offset to the right.

Y Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the Y offset distance, if any, from the Y reference Grid. Use positive distances to offset up and negative distances to offset down.

Warning

To Begin the Wall Line from the endpoint of the previous line, Leave the Begin Grid blank.

|—–End of Line—–|

Vert (X) Hor (Y)

This Drop-Down List specifies the X and Y Grid reference to the end of the line segment.

X Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the X offset distance, if any, from the X reference grid. Use positive distances to offset to the left and negative distances to offset to the right.

Y Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the Y offset distance, if any, from the Y reference grid. Use positive distances to offset up and negative distances to offset down.

Start Gap

Enter any additional beginning expansion gap, if required. In most cases, if you have entered the left and right expansion gaps for each Panel, you can leave this value at zero (0). This option is especially useful at square corner joints where you want the Wall Lines to meet, but one panel has to be offset by the thickness of the other corner Panel.

List of Panels to be placed on this Wall Line

List all of the Panels to be included on the Wall Line segment in the order you want them to be inserted - from the beginning of the segment to the end - in alphanumerical order. Use commas or spaces to separate individual Panels and use the hyphen (-) to separate sequential groups of Panels (i.e., 4-22 means 4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22; 22-4 would reverse this order).

To attach panels on wall lines individually, simply enter the panel numbers with or without alpha characters (A-Z) in the order you want them to be attached and separate them with spaces or commas. If you run out of room in the visible Edit Box, the text will scroll horizontally up to 256 characters. Example: (1,2,6C,3,4,4A,5)

To attach panels sequentially, enter the first and last panel numbers WITHOUT any alpha characters; i.e. (1-32). This will be interpreted to mean panels 1 through 32. To reverse the order of attachment, enter (32-1). Special Note: If the panels to be attached contain alpha characters (A-Z), they must be entered individually.

Additional wall lines (17-160)

Presents additional Wall Line definitions if required for complex Projects.

Note

The direction that the lines are drawn determines the direction the Panels will face when inserted into the Site Drawing. The left edge of the first Panel will attach to the beginning of the Wall Line segment, with its outside surface facing outward to the segment in a clockwise direction. This is intuitive for exterior walls - if the Wall Line segments are drawn clockwise, the Panels will have their outside surfaces facing the outside of the building. Use care in determining the direction of the Wall Lines for all interior and exterior demising walls, sheer walls, and retaining walls. All Panels will be inserted with their outside surfaces parallel to the Wall Line segment.

Selecting OK will erase any previously drawn Wall Lines and redraw all Wall Lines according to the new definitions. If Panels are attached, they will lose their insertion reference points, and must be detached and then re-attached to maintain drawing integrity.

Tip

For clarity, you may leave blank segments in the Wall Line Dialog Box, or place separate structures on individual pages.

To produce 3D drawing of certain elevations, simply turn off the Wall Lines you don’t want displayed before you attach the Panels.

Slab Lines¶

Slab Lines are used to locate the Construction Layout for the Panels in your Site Drawing.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 16 Line Segments on each Page)

Enable¶

Displays the line segment number for each row of segments for reference purposes. Turning selected Slab Lines off allows 3D Rendering of selected Site elevations to be displayed.

|—-Beginning of Line—-| Vert (X) Hor (Y)

This Drop-Down List specifies the X and Y Grid reference to the beginning of the Slab Line segment.

X Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the X offset distance, if any, from the X reference Grid. Use positive distances to offset to the left and negative distances to offset to the right.

Y Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the Y offset distance, if any, from the Y reference Grid. Use positive distances to offset up and negative distances to offset down.

Warning

To Begin the Slab Line from the endpoint of the previous line, Leave the Begin Grid blank.

|—–End of Line—–| Vert (X) Hor (Y)

This Drop-Down List specifies the X and Y Grid reference to the end of the line segment.

X Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the X offset distance, if any, from the X reference grid. Use positive distances to offset to the left and negative distances to offset to the right.

Y Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the Y offset distance, if any, from the Y reference grid. Use positive distances to offset up and negative distances to offset down.

Elevation¶

Specifies the elevation of the Slab Line (Finished Floor) above or below the Site elevation. Positive elevations indicate above FF, and negative below. Normally, all Slab Lines will be at 0 elevation unless your Site has multiple FF levels.

Slab Thickness

Edit Box to define the thickness of the Slab.

Additional Slab Lines (17-64)

Presents additional Slab Line definitions if required for complex Projects.

Note

The direction that the lines are drawn is not important.

This release draws a simple 2D slab. A planned future upgrade will provide full Solid Modeling capability.

Selecting OK will erase any previously drawn Slab Lines and redraw all Slab Lines according to the new definitions.

Tip

For clarity, you may leave blank segments in the Slab Lines Dialog Box, or place separate structures on individual pages.

Footing Connection Layout¶

The Footing Connection Layout displays and dimensions each Footing Connection (from Grid or from each other).

To use this option, you must have the Footing Connections in the Panels and have the Panels attached to the Site drawing.

All of the Footing Connections will be located and dimensions drawn between them. Additional dimensions will be drawn from each Grid Line to the closest connection. Dimension drawn between connections are drawn in magenta with “tick” marks to the center line. Dimensions drawn to Grid Lines will be red with C/L marks to the center of Grid.

A special Layout Tab will be created that displays a 3D slice of the plan view hiding everything above Finished Floor, and showing only the Panel outlines and Footing Connections. You can print this layout to assist your embed placement crew in aligning the embeds in the footing with the embeds in the Panels.

Joist / Girder Layout

The Joist/Girder Layout displays the Center Line of each Joist and Girder at the specified Floor or Roof Level.

(Image truncated to conserve space - Actual Dialog Box includes 16 Arrays on each Page)

Enable¶

Displays the array number for each array for reference purposes.

|——–Joist Array———|

Begin Grid

This Drop-Down List specifies the Beginning Grid for the Joist Array.

Offset

Use this Edit Box to specify the offset distance, if any, from the first Joist to the reference Grid. Use positive distances to offset to the left or up, and negative distances to offset to the right or down.

Spacing

Use this Edit Box to specify the spacing between the Joists. Use positive distances space to the left or up, and negative distances to space to the right or down.

Number

Use this Edit Box to specify the number of spaces required (one less than the number of Joists needed).

Special Notes:

To begin the Joist array from the last Joist in the previous array, leave the Begin Grid blank. If you leave the Offset at 0, the current spacing will be used to offset the first Joist. If you leave the Spacing or Number at 0, only one Joist or Girder will be drawn

Length of Joist From Grid

This Drop-Down List specifies the beginning Grid for each Joist

To Grid

This Drop-Down List specifies the ending Grid for each Joist

For clarity, each Joist will be terminated at the point where it intersects a Wall Line.

Horizontal Arrays

All Joist on this page will be drawn vertically and arrayed horizontally at the spacing specified.

Vertical Arrays

All Joist on this page will be drawn horizontally and arrayed vertically at the spacing specified.

Note

An additional Layout Tab will be created when you use the Create or Modify Viewports option for each Floor or Roof level on which Joists or Girders are present. These Layout tabs use the special AutoCAD feature to create a 3D Slice to display only the sections of the Panels and the Weld Connections at that level. Everything above or below that level will be hidden. This makes it very easy to check the Weld Plate alignment with the Center Line of the Joists and Girders. However, due to an AutoCAD limitation, some of the Panel outlines may not be shown. The Panel Joints,

embeds, arrays, and dimensions will still be displayed, so this is not important.

Tip

You may enter the Joist/Girder information at any time; however, if the Panels are not attached to the Site Drawing, only the Spacing and Offsets from Grid Lines will be dimensioned. If Panels are attached, or when you attach them, additional dimensions will be drawn from the Panel Joints to the closest Joist on either side to assist with entering this information in your Panel Drawings.

Attach Panels¶

This Dialog Box is used to enter the expansion (standing) gap required for Tilt-UP, and the desired Construction Gap for forming the Panels on the Slab.

Enter the expansion (standing) gap

The function of the value entered here will depend on your selection

(1) Check here if you DID enter the Left and Right Gaps for each Panel

If you also select the Check Panel Gaps and Corner Alignment box, this value will be used to check each panel as it is inserted; otherwise, it will not be used.

(2) Check here if you DID NOT use the Left and Right Panel Gaps feature

As the panels are inserted, each subsequent Panel on a Wall Line will be spaced by this amount. (The first Panel on a Wall Line will not be moved. See Wall Lines - Starting Gap for more details.)

Enter the construction (common form) gap

If you create a Construction Layout, this value will be used to space the panels for forming.

Check Panel Gaps and Corner Alignment

One of the most useful features of ConstructiVision, this function will check each Wall Line and Corner for the properr expansion gap, warn you of any “overlapping” panels, and identify spandrel panels. If you have used the Left and Right Panel Gap feature for each Panel, it will also identify any Panel Gap errors along the Wall Lines. Not all warnings will be errors; for example, if you have a wing panel extending inside an opening in another panel at a store front entry, the warning printed on the drawing will be “Check Overlapping Panels”. In this case, it’s probably OK, but you should visually check the vertical clearance anyway.

Note

Attaching Panels to the Site Drawing.is the main reason ConstructiVision was created. It allows you to “pre-build” your project and “walk through” the building checking for erros in weld plate position, feature strip alignment, wall closure, etc.

Registration Manager¶

The Registration Manager Dialog Box provides all of the information needed to register your program and purchase or renew your subscription.

Authorization Code¶

These Edit Boxes are for you to enter the Authorization Code that you will receive from ConstructiVision when you initially register your program and each time you renew your subscription. Authorization Codes are machine-specific and are valid only on the computer used to generate the License and Serial Numbers.

License Number

This is your permanent Software License Number. It is an internally generated number and will be unique for each computer. This number is needed to register your software and to generate the correct Authorization Code for your program..

Serial Number

This is a “flexible” Serial Number that will change each time you launch the Registration Manager. It is an internally generated number and will be unique for each ConstructiVision program (Standard, LT, or XL). This time sensitive number is needed to generate the correct Authorization Code for your program.

After receiving and entering your Authorization Code, click this button to Register your software and renew your subscription.

To register your program for the first time, or to renew your subscription, please call ConstructiVision at 1-425-745-3327.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

The Serial Number is time sensitive, and is different for each ConstructiVision program. Do not save this number for future reference - using an “old” Serial Number will invalidate your Authorization Code. The License Number is different for each computer - using a License Number from a different computer will invalidate your Authorization Code. The Authorization Code is encrypted with your License and Serial Numbers. It is time sensitive and must be entered within one hour. Each ConstructiVision program (Standard, LT, and XL) must be individually registered and maintained. Any or all programs may be registered on the same computer.

Data Entry Methods¶

Edit Boxes

A small window for entering text or numbers. Most Edit Boxes have restrictions placed on the type of characters and/or range of numbers you may enter.

Slider

Sliders are a convenient means of changing the numerical value of a variable with the mouse instead of the keyboard. All Slider controls used in this program have associated Edit Boxes. The Slider “knob” may be dragged to any location with the mouse; its position can be moved in large increments by clicking the bar on either side of the “knob” or it can be moved in Small increments by clicking the arrows on either side of the Slider.

See Slide/Edit Cluster below for complete details about the special characteristics of these combination tiles.

Toggles

A Toggle is simply a check box that allows an on/off selection. Each time you click it with the left mouse button, the check mark in the box will “toggle” on and off. (In some cases - Feature Strips, for example - one of the Toggles must be checked, so it will not turn “off” if the other one is also off.)

Toggles are enabled when the check mark displays in the box, and disabled when the check mark is not present.

Radio Buttons

Radio Buttons are always arranged in groups, permitting quick selection of a multiple-choice variable. Clicking one member of the group On turns the others Off. One member of the group will always be On.

List Box

List Boxes provide a convenient means of selecting a single value from a Drop-Down List of pre-set options. Simply click on the arrow to the right of the List Box to display the list of options, and then click on your choice. Your selection will appear in the box. If the list is longer than eight items, a scroll bar will allow you to navigate the list.

Multiple Select List Box

Multiple Select List Boxes provide a convenient means of simultaneously selecting many values from a list of pre-set options. Simply click on any of the options in the list to make your selection. You may use the CTRL and SHIFT keys to select multiple items using standard Windows conventions. Your selections will be highlighted. If the list is longer than can be displayed in the space available, a scroll bar will allow you to navigate the list.

Slide/Edit Cluster

All Slide/Edit Clusters function in a similar manner. The only differences will be in the preset ranges of the Sliders, the value of the Large and Small increments of the Sliders, and the type of automatic range checking performed on the values entered (either by Slider or direct entry in the Edit Box).

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Edit Box can be used as an Architectural Units (Feet and Inches)

calculator with up to four different arithmatic operators (+ - * /). In most cases, it can also be used to create and position one primitive relative to another, or to center a primitive in the Panel. See Tips below.

Wherever separate clusters are provided for Left and Right Elevations (main Panel, Ledgers, horizontal Feature Strips, etc.) an entry made in the Left cluster will be copied into the Right, simplifying the entry or adjustment of the Right value. Please note that any value in the Right cluster will be overwritten by any subsequent adjustment to the Left.

Edit Box Operation

Entries may be made directly into any Edit Box by selecting the Edit Box with the mouse or TAB key. The ENTER key may also be used in most cases, however, pressing ENTER when a blinking cursor is not visible in any Edit Box is equivalent to selecting OK.

Entries may be made in any format: Scientific, Decimal, Engineering (feet and decimal Inches), Architectural (feet and fractional inches), or Fractional. Entries without a foot suffix (‘) will be interpreted as inches (i.e., 14.5 will be translated as 1’-2 1/2”). Every effort has been made to accommodate various entry styles, so it is not necessary to follow the standard AutoCAD syntax: 14’-0 5/16”, 14’ 0 5/16, 14’ 5/16, 14.02604’, 1.402604e1’, 14’ 0.3125, 14’.3125, 168 5/16, 168.3125, and 1.683125e2 will all be translated correctly as 14’-0 5/16”. Note also that leading zeros for decimal numbers smaller than one (1), and the zero (0) placeholder are optional.

With the exception of the Left and Right Mitering Angle Clusters, which are presented in fractional degrees, all other Slide/Edit Clusters will be translated into Architectural format. (The Degree symbol is also optional in the Mitering Angle Clusters.)

Several things happen upon exiting an Edit Box (by selecting another tile or pressing ENTER):

(1) A character check is performed to verify the validity of the entry; a warning will be displayed if your entry cannot be translated and the original value will be restored. (2) Your entry is checked for legal range. If your entry is out of range, an informative warning will be displayed and either the maximum or the minimum allowable value will be returned, depending on the specific tile in which the entry was made. (3) The Slider position will be changed to reflect the new value. (4) Certain tiles will reset the Range-Checking variables. (5) Your entry will be temporarily stored, no permanent changes will be made until OK is selected from the main Panel Dialog Box.

Slider Operation

You may also make entries by adjusting the appropriate Slider in three different ways:

(1) Cursor Control - Place the cursor on the Slider control knob and drag it (with the Left mouse button) in either

direction to obtain the desired value. As the Slider is moved, the new value will be displayed in the Edit Box.

(2) Large Increment - Left click the bar on either side of the Slider control knob to adjust the value. The value of the Big Increment for most tiles is 1’ (100mm); the exceptions will be when this degree of change would be inconvenient or inappropriate - changing the thickness of the Panel, for example.

(3) Small Increment - Left click the arrow on either side of the Slider control bar to adjust the value. The value of

the Small Increment for most tiles is 1/8” (10mm); there are exceptions, if this degree of change would be inconvenient or inappropriate - changing the Mitering angle, for example.

Entries are checked for legal range as the slider is adjusted. For convenience, no warning will be displayed if you attempt to make an out-of-range entry; the slider will simply appear to “stick” at the maximum or minimum allowable value. In some cases, notably Sliders for arch radii, this may deactivate the Large and Small Increment features. This is because an arch radius may be either zero (0) (for none) or a value greater than half the width of the feature. A value inside this range is disallowed as explained above. If the value of the Large or Small Increment will not bring the entry into legal range, it will be ignored. However, it is still possible to use Cursor Control to adjust the value. No change will display in the Edit Box until the value of the Slider is brought into range.

Note

Depending on which tile is selected and the sophistication of range checking involved, CPU speeds of less than 100MHz may make the Slider operation appear slow or irregular.

Tip

Increments more than or decrements less than the Small Increment value must be made directly in the Edit Box: 1/16” for example.

To achieve an arch radius of exactly half the width of a feature, drag the Slider knob until the value of the Edit Box changes, then drag it back until it “sticks”.

To center a primitive in the Panel, first enter the width, then enter the letter c in the distance tile and press Enter.

The Edit Box can be used to copy a primitive and place the copy to the left, right, above, or below the previous one.

To use this feature, there must be a primitive already defined in the row above; for example., a 4’ W by 6’ H window 3’-11 1/2” from the left edge at an elevation of 2’-0”. To place an identical window at the same elevation spaced 3’-0” from the one defined in the row above, just type +3’ in the distance field and press Enter. To place an identical window above the previous one, just type +3’ in the elevation filed and press Enter. To place an identical window to the right or below, you must enter both the + and - signs; i.e., +-3’.

The Edit Box can be used as an Architectural Units (Feet and Inches) calculator with up to four different arithmatic operators (+ - * /).

To use this feature, just enter the first datum in any format (as explained above in Edit Box Operation), enter the operator, enter any additional data and operators, and press the Enter Key. A confirmation Dialog Box will be presented showing the way the equation was evaluated, the result, and asking if you want to enter the result in the active field. Clicking “YES” will transfer the result of the equation.

Since the “-” and “/” signs are also used in Architectural Notation (12’-4 1/2”), you must enter them twice to use as operators; i.e., “–” and “//”. Otherwise the program would not know if your were entering 3/8” or wanted to divide 3” by 8 (3”//8). Doubling of the “+” and “*” signs is not required and will result in an invalid entry.

For example: Suppose you wanted to calculate the elevation to the center of plate for a girder embed with the roof elevation specified as Top of Deck. First, you would need to subtract the deck thickness from the elevation, then subtract the difference between the top of joist and the joist bearing, then subtract half the plate height. 32’-4 3/8” minus 2 1/2” minus 9”, or 31’-4 7/8”. Simply type 31’4 3/8–2.5–9 and hit Enter. Or suppose you needed to calculate the distance from the edge of the first panel on an inside corner joint to the first joist on a 75’ wall line with a joist spacing of 8’ on center and a wall thickness of 8 1/4”. You would have to subtract twice the wall thickness (1’-4 1/2”) from 75’-0”, then divide the answer (73’-6 1/2”) by 8, then divide the answer (9’-2 3/8”) by 2, or 4’-7 3/16”. Simply type -8.25*2+75’//8//2 and hit Enter. Note: if you selected 1/8” tolerance in the Project Details Dialog Box, the result will be displayed as 4’-7 1/4”, but all calculations are done to 17 decimal place precision.

Please remember that calculations are made in the order they’re entered. No provision is made for nesting expressions, thus sequential operators preform on the result of the previous expression.

Dimensioning Conventions¶

Clear, concise, and integrated dimensioning is crucial to how quickly and accurately your Project can be translated from paper to the finished product. Although AutoCAD’s dimensioning features give you total control over how your dimensions will appear in the final drawings, the enormous number of dimensioning variables can be intimidating to the novice drafter. ConstructiVision dynamically manipulates these variables - when and as required - to produce drawings with a minimum of extraneous lines, overlapping text, and duplicate or unnecessary dimension markers and symbols. In addition to changing dimension styles and text annotation, ConstructiVision places dimensions for certain features on their associated dimension Layers, enabling these dimensions - with the features they represent - to be turned off. This entire process is automatically manipulated by ConstructiVision.

Most dimension lines, text, arrowheads, and markers are magenta in color. The Finished Floor (FF) line is dashed red.

All horizontal dimensions included on the final drawing (except for the total Panel width) will be referenced to the Down Face of the Panel. All vertical elevation markers included on the final drawing will be referenced to Finished Floor.

Horizontal Baseline Dimensions

Standard Baseline

Up to five levels of Baseline Dimensions will display between the bottom of the Main Panel and the Title Block. The number of levels (Dimension Baselines) is automatically chosen and is dependent on the complexity of the Panel. The location of the level is inversely related to the location of the associated feature. Features located near the bottom of the Panel will display first. Coincident dimensions on adjoining levels will be connected by extension lines for clarity. Some levels will be placed on discreet Layers to allow them to be turned on and off with their associated features.

Special Baseline

Certain features, notably Pick Points, Brace Points, and groups of Weld Connections, will display a Baseline Dimension within or above the Main Panel. Extension lines will display a short distance above and below the Baseline to allow manual relocation, if required for clarity.

Horizontal Dimension Lines

In some cases, notably Weld Connections, a single horizontal dimension line will be drawn inside the Panel perimeter from the closest Panel edge to the center of the feature.

Vertical Baseline Dimensions

A Vertical Dimension Line indicating the overall height of the Panel (to Top of Concrete) will be displayed to the left of the Panel. If the Panel is sloped or has a peaked top, it will be dimensioned on both sides. Note that this dimension includes only the overall concrete height and does not include the Top Plate (if any).

Elevation Markers

Most vertical dimensions are indicated with markers displaying the elevation from FF. Normally, these markers will be placed to the right of the Panel. However, markers will be placed to the left, if required for clarity, or if a feature has different left and right elevations (example: sloped Ledgers). Two elevation markers are always present: the top and bottom of the main Panel. Note: If a Top Plate is present, two elevation markers will be displayed, one to Top of Concrete (TOC) and one to Top of Panel (TOP).

Radius Dimensions

Radii dimensions for arches and circles are displayed near the top of their respective features.

Center of Gravity (CG)

A CG marker displaying the distance and direction from the center of gravity to the center of the Main Panel. The CG X-Y coordinates are not normally used for construction, but are needed to verify Pick Point locations - especially for PreCast Panels.

Leaders

Leader lines are used whenever a dimension or descriptive text must be placed away from the feature, or whenever a dimension line would be inappropriate. The direction and length of leader lines will be altered for clarity.

Dimension Text

Dimension line text for horizontal, vertical, and radii dimensions is usually placed inside, and aligned with, the dimension line. The standard Horizontal Baseline dimensions, however, will normally have their text placed above the dimension line. The final text position will be adjusted to avoid clutter, if necessary.

Annotation and Descriptive Text

Dimension Annotation and Descriptive Text will always be placed for clarity.

Panel Number¶

The Panel Number is a block that may be moved manually, if required. If moved anywhere inside the Panel

perimeter, the new location will be stored and future updates (redraws) of the Panel will place the block at your selected location. If moved outside the Panel perimeter, it will be relocated to its default position the next time the Panel is edited. This block contains many hidden attributes that are necessary in other routines such as Batch Utilities and Attach Panels.

Warning

It is highly recommended that you do not move the Panel Number block outside of the Panel perimeter. Doing so may cause the Number block to display over the wrong Panel after it is attached to the Site Drawing.

Note

In this manual, the word “associated” means related to a drawing feature or the Layer on which it is located. ConstructiVision does not make use of AutoCAD’s “Associated Dimensioning”.

Due to the variety of dimension styles present in the final drawing, global use of AutoCAD’s dimension update commands is not recommended. Individual dimensions may, however, be modified and/or moved manually after the drawing is complete. Please remember that all dimensions (except those placed on the Custom_Dim Layer) will revert to their default styles and locations if the Panel is redrawn.

Tip

Objects placed on the Custom Layer will be displayed in the Site Drawing. To automatically hide dimensions for these objects in the Site Drawing, place them on the Custom_Dim Layer.

If you must modify a default dimension and wish to preserve your changes, copy (or move) it to the Custom_Dim Layer. If the Panel is subsequently updated, you can quickly delete the default dimension.

Miscellaneous¶

Slope Calculator¶

The Slope Calculator can be accessed from buttons on the Ledger/Top Plate and Weld Connection Dialog boxes or from the ConstructiVision Drop-Down Menu on the AutoCAD Menu Bar. It is most useful for calculating the elevations for Ledgers and Weld Connection Arrays at the Panel Joints for an entire wall line, although it can also be used to calculate discreet elevations within a single panel.

Total Distance

Enter the length of the wall line. If the rise or fall is known; i.e., 4” in 12’, etc., you may enter just the length of the rise (12’).

Starting Elevation

Enter the elevation for the Ledger (to top of Ledger) or Weld Connection Array (to center of Plate) at the beginning of the wall line.

Ending Elevation

Enter the elevation for the Ledger (to top of Ledger) or Weld Connection Array (to center of Plate) at the end of the wall line. Or, if you have entered just the length of the rise (as above), enter the Beginning Elevation (BE) plus the rise (BE + 4”).

Distance Change

Enter the distance for which you want to retrieve the elevation (usually the distance between Panel Joints). To repeat an entry, just press the Enter key. To start over with the same slope and clear the cumulative distance, enter 0.

Elevation¶

This field shows the actual elevation for the cumulative distances you have entered. You can use standard Windows Copy and Paste techniques to enter this value in the Dialog boxes where needed.

This field shows the cumulative distance (the distance at which the elevation is calculated) If you need the elevation for a specific distance, you may enter that distance in this filed.

Back

If you make a mistake in entering the Distance Change, click this button to undo the previous entry.

Clear All

Click this button to restore all fields to 0.

Note:

After you have made the first calculation, your most recent entries will be saved. You may safely exit the calculator to work on another drawing (or turn off you computer and go home) and your values will still be there when you return.

Plotter Selection¶

This Dialog Box will be presented before running any ConstructiVision print operation. Click the arrows to select the printer, paper size, and style you wish to use from the list of available options. Select Portrait or Landscape depending on your printer or plotter model. Note: Except for special printer configurations, Landscape is not recommended for Panel Drawings.

Note

The two custom styles supplied with ConstructiVision will work best in most cases. For the best grayscale printing on a laser printer, use “Laser Printer.ctb”. For the best color printing - especially on wide carriage plotters- use “Color Plotter.ctb”. For the darkest plot, use “monochrome.ctb”.

The style selection will be disabled (grayed out) when printing a Materials List or Revision History.

Alert¶

An Alert message will be displayed whenever you need to be informed that a certain action will be taken, or to inform you that you need to take extra precautions.

Warning¶

A Warning message will be displayed when ConstructiVision needs confirmation before it proceeds with an action you requested that cannot be reversed after the selected operation is performed.

About ConstructiVision¶

Version 10.nn

Main Office

ConstructiVision, Inc. 17010 9th Avenue SE Mill Creek, WA 98012 USA 1-425-745-3327 1-425-745-3797 FAX info@constructivision.com EMAIL http://www.constructivision.com/ URL

Tech Support Office

ConstructiVision, Inc. 7306 Oxford Court NW Bremerton, WA 98311 USA 1-360-633-7773 1-360-633-7773 FAX support@constructivision.com EMAIL http://www.constructivision.com/ URL

This program is protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. Its use is subject to the terms of the license agreement included in the package and agreed to during the installation process. Copyright 1999-2004 ConstructiVision, Inc. All rights reserved. Patent(s) Pending.