4.2.45. Spec properties (SuCri2UpdatePropertiesFromSpec)

Overview

This guide walks you through using the Spec properties [DWG] function of the SuCri plugin for AutoCAD Plant 3D. You will learn how to automatically update project specifications (specs) in the DWG properties of your drawings to ensure data consistency across your projects.

Where do I find the function?

Call it via the command SuCri2UpdatePropertiesFromSpec or via the ribbon SuCri > Module 2.

Plant 3D™ command

Video

How it works in detail

Step 1: Start AutoCAD Plant 3D and open the project

1. Start AutoCAD Plant 3D from the desktop or Start menu.
2. Open your desired project via the Home tab and the Open project button.

Expected result: The project is loaded in the Project Manager and all drawings are visible.

Step 2: Calling the SuCri function

1. In the ribbon, click the SuCri tab.
2. In the area for Module 2, look for the Spec properties [DWG] button and click it.

Expected result: A dialog window or a command line prompt for the command SuCri2UpdatePropertiesFromSpec appears.

Step 3: Selecting the drawings to be updated

Depending on the program version, use one of the following options:

• Option A (dialog window): Select the desired DWG files from the list (single, multiple or select-all) and confirm with OK or Run.
• Option B (command line): Follow the prompts in the command line. For example, enter A for "All" to update the entire project.

Expected result: Processing of the selected files begins and is indicated by status messages.

Step 4: Running the update

1. The plugin now reconciles the components in the drawings with the data of the central project spec.
2. Watch the progress indicator in the command line.

Expected result: After completion, a success message or a summary of the changes appears.

Step 5: Checking the results

1. Open one of the updated DWG files.
2. Select a Plant 3D component (e.g. a valve).
3. Open the Properties palette with Ctrl + 1.
4. Check fields such as Spec Name, Spec Material or custom attributes.

Expected result: The values in the palette exactly match the current definitions in the project specification.

Tips and best practices

• Backup: Always create a backup copy of your project before running, as there is no global "Undo" function.
• Data quality: The function takes the data "as is". Errors in the spec file are therefore transferred directly into the DWGs.
• Performance: For very large projects, the update can take some time. If necessary, run the process in smaller batches.
• Shortcuts: Use Ctrl + 1 for the properties and ESC to cancel commands.

Troubleshooting

• Command missing: In the AutoCAD application manager, check whether the SuCri plugin is loaded correctly and whether the version is compatible with your Plant 3D version.
• Properties not updated: Make sure that the components in the drawing are correctly linked to the spec and that the spec file is reachable in the project path.
• System crash: Reduce the number of drawings processed simultaneously and close other memory-intensive applications.

Related articles

• Selection, marks the components of an assembly.
• Attaching, combines components into an assembly and assigns the SU number.
• Detach, removes individual components from the assembly again.