4.2.3. Replace (SuCri2ReplaceExistingSupport)

Overview

This guide walks you through the process of how to efficiently replace existing primary supports in your active AutoCAD Plant 3D DWG drawing using the SuCri plugin and a mapping table. This enables the automated switch between different component types of your active pipe class based on their family descriptions.

Where do I find the function?

Call it via the command SuCri2ReplaceExistingSupport or via the ribbon SuCri > Module 2.

Plant 3D™ command

Video

How it works in detail

The following example describes replacing "clamps" with "pipe shoes".

1. Open the SuCri user interface and load settings

1. Start AutoCAD Plant 3D and navigate to the SuCri ribbon.
2. Click the SuCri icon to open the main dialog window.
   Result: The SuCri dialog window is displayed.
3. In the dialog, click the Load settings button (or Load Settings).
4. In the file explorer, select the relevant Settings file (XML or INI file).
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. In the file, look for the ReplaceSupport section.

2. Add your replacement rule to the table structure:

   • Left side (OldFamilyDescription): Enter the name of the current support (e.g. Schellen).
   • Right side (NewFamilyDescription): Enter the name of the new support (e.g. Rohrschuhe).
3. Save the file with Ctrl+S and close the editor.
   Result: The mapping rules are now stored in the system.

3. Running the replacement process

1. In the SuCri interface, click Refresh or Reload settings if necessary to apply the changes.
2. Select the Replace [DWG] command.
   Result: SuCri scans the drawing and replaces the defined components.
3. Check the result in your DWG drawing.
   Result: The old supports were successfully replaced by the new components from the pipe class.

Tips and best practices

• Exact spelling: The family descriptions must match character for character (including upper/lower case and spaces). It is best to copy them directly from the properties of the components.
• Data backup: Always create a backup copy of your DWG drawing before running the command.
• Program restart: In some cases a restart of AutoCAD is required for changes to the configuration file to be fully recognized.
• Compatibility: Make sure the new components are stored in the active pipe class for the respective pipe diameters.

Troubleshooting

• Supports are not replaced: Check whether the OldFamilyDescription in the table matches exactly the entry in the AutoCAD properties. Make sure the settings file was saved after the change.
• Error message when starting the command: Check the syntax of the settings file for missing brackets or damaged XML tags.
• Incorrect positioning: If the new supports appear offset, check the insertion points and parameters in the pipe class editor.

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Related articles

• Selection, marks the components of an assembly.
• Attaching, combines components into an assembly and assigns the SU number.
• Detach, takes individual components back out of the assembly.