4.2.4. Support (SuCri2AutoSelectSupport)

In this guide you will learn how to use the SuCri plugin to automatically place supports for pipes on beam profiles in AutoCAD Plant 3D and Advance Steel. By using the SuCri2AutoSelectSupport module you considerably increase the efficiency and precision of your design processes.

1. Start the SuCri plugin and load the tool palette

   Open your project in AutoCAD Plant 3D or Advance Steel. In the ribbon, click the tab of the SuCri plugin and select the button to open the SuCri tool palette.

   Expected result: The "SuCri" tool palette is displayed at the edge of the screen.

2. Activate the "Support" module

   In the palette, look for the icon for Support or the entry SuCri2AutoSelectSupport and click on it.

   Expected result: The command line shows the prompt to select an object.

3. Select the beam profile as the target object

   Using the left mouse button, select the beam profile (e.g. U-profile or I-beam) to which the support is to be attached.

   Expected result: The profile is highlighted in blue and the system prompts for the selection of the pipe.

4. Select the pipe

   Now click on the pipe that runs below the beam.

   Expected result: The support is calculated automatically and a standard preview is displayed in the model.

5. Configure the support parameters

   In the properties dialog that now appears, adjust the following values:

   • Support type: Select e.g. Pipe clamp with threaded rod from the dropdown menu.
   • Distances: Define the distance to the beam or an offset in millimeters.
   • Material/size: Check the diameter of the threaded rod.

   Confirm your entries with OK or Apply.

   Expected result: The final support is generated with all individual components in the model.

6. Check and finish

   Visually check the alignment of the components and save your drawing.

• Order: Make sure to strictly select the structural profile first and then the pipe.
• Dynamic preview: Use the preview function during parameter adjustment to detect collisions immediately.
• Project standards: After creation, check in the Properties palette whether the layers and object styles match your standards.
• Shortcuts: Use ESC to cancel, F3 for object snap and F8 for ortho mode.

• Support is not displayed: Check whether the physical distance between beam and pipe is large enough for the selected support component.
• Error message "Invalid selection": Make sure you did not click on auxiliary lines or dimensions, but on real intelligent objects (Plant 3D Pipes/Steel Members).
• Performance problems: For very large models, temporarily disable dynamic input during the mass placement of supports.