4.2.3. Replace [DWG] (SuCri2ReplaceExistingSupportDWG)

Replace [DWG] (SuCri2ReplaceExistingSupportDWG)

This guide will walk you through the process of efficiently replacing existing primary supports in your active AutoCAD Plant 3D DWG drawing using the SuCri plugin and a mapping table. This allows for an automated switch between different component types in your active spec based on their family descriptions.

Prerequisites

• The SuCri plugin for AutoCAD Plant 3D or Advance Steel is correctly installed.
• You have an active DWG drawing open that contains the primary supports to be replaced.
• The target spec containing the new supports is active in the project.
• You have write permissions for the SuCri configuration files.
• The exact family descriptions (OldFamilyDescription and NewFamilyDescription) of the components are known to you.

Step-by-Step Instructions

The following example describes swapping "Clamps" for "Pipe Shoes".

1. Open SuCri User Interface and Load Settings

1. Start AutoCAD Plant 3D and navigate to the SuCri ribbon.
2. Click on the SuCri icon to open the main dialog window.
   Result: The SuCri dialog window is displayed.
3. Click the Load Settings button in the dialog.
4. Select the relevant settings file (XML or INI file) in the file explorer.
5. Open this file with a text editor (e.g., Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code).
   Result: The configuration file is ready for editing.

2. Define the Mapping Table for the Replacement

1. Search the file for the ReplaceSupport section.
2. Insert your replacement rule into the table structure:
   • Left Side (OldFamilyDescription): Enter the name of the current support (e.g., Clamps).
   • Right Side (NewFamilyDescription): Enter the name of the new support (e.g., Pipe Shoes).
3. Save the file with Ctrl+S and close the editor.
   Result: The mapping rules are now stored in the system.

3. Execute the Replacement Process

1. If necessary, click Refresh or Reload Settings in the SuCri interface to apply the changes.
2. Select the command Replace [DWG].
   Result: SuCri scans the drawing and replaces the defined components.
3. Check the result in your DWG drawing.
   Result: The old supports have been successfully replaced by the new components from the spec.

Important Notes

• Exact Spelling: The family descriptions must match exactly (including case sensitivity and spaces). It is best to copy these directly from the Properties of the components.
• Data Backup: Always create a backup copy of your DWG drawing before executing the command.
• Program Restart: In some cases, a restart of AutoCAD is required for changes to the configuration file to be fully recognized.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the new components are defined in the active spec for the respective pipe diameters.

Troubleshooting

• Supports are not replaced: Check if the OldFamilyDescription in the table matches the entry in the AutoCAD properties exactly. Ensure that the settings file was saved after the modification.
• Error message when starting the command: Check the syntax of the settings file for missing brackets or corrupted XML tags.
• Incorrect Positioning: If the new supports appear offset, check the insertion points and parameters in the Spec Editor.

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