SurTplDes Surface Template Design

Design 3D features such as roads and ditches using section templates. Simply draw your section to project in a block definition and this tool will project it along your path object to form a 3D geometry model. Edge rays are automatically trimmed at the intersection of the surface.

Keyboard Command: SurTplDes

SurTplDes

Block Preparation:

  1. Open the drawing with the surface and centerline path object.
  2. Issue the BEDIT command and provide a name like VDITCH and choose OK.
  3. Draw the primary section as a polyline (lightweight) using the PLINE command.
    • The program expects the polyline to be drawn from left to right.
    • If you draw lines and join to form a polyline, verify the direction and use PEDIT - Reverse, if necessary.
    • Even if there are no normal segments (like a V ditch) there must be a polyline. Draw one from 0,0 to 0.0 (the tool ignores duplicate points).
  4. Draw up to four RAY objects to indicate your desired projected ending slopes.
    • For the left side, begin the RAY at the left end of the polyline (with an OSNAP) and enter a relative point to specify the slope.

      For example, enter @-3,1 to indicate a 3:1 uphill slope (to the left). Repeat this with @3,-1 to indicate a downhill slope.

    • For the right side, repeat the process using @3,1 for a positive uphill slope to the right. Repeat with @3,-1 for downhill.
    • Note there can be one or two rays on each side. Do not use more than two rays on each side.
  5. Use the BCLOSE command to finish and save the block definition.
  6. Optionally use the WBLOCK command to write out the definition for backup and use in other drawings.

Procedure:

  1. Open the drawing containing the surface, centerline path and block definition.
  2. Initiate this tool.
  3. Verify the proper surface in the top row.
  4. Select the proper block in the middle section.
  5. Specify additional parameters as desired.
  6. Click the OK button to begin processing.

Notes: