Different Geometries When Inserting Components from the Tool Palette
In this article, you will learn how to handle different geometries when inserting components in Autodesk Plant 3D. You will become familiar with the software's standard behavior and learn how to place alternative components via the Spec Viewer or the substitution function.
Background and Problem Description
When inserting a component via the Spec Tool Palette, the displayed geometry may differ from your expectations. This is due to the standard behavior of Autodesk Plant 3D in conjunction with the settings defined in the spec:
- When a component is inserted from the tool palette, Plant 3D automatically attaches the prioritized part in the spec to the mouse cursor.
- When placing it on a pipe, Plant 3D checks whether the corresponding size is available in the spec.
- If there are several variants for a nominal size, the prioritized component is always inserted.
- The geometry can therefore differ depending on the selected nominal size.
Note: This behavior is not an error in SuCri, but the normal standard behavior of Autodesk Plant 3D.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Inserting Alternative Components
If you require a different geometry than the preset priority, you have two options:
Option 1: Using the Spec Viewer
- Open the Spec Viewer in Plant 3D.
- Select the desired Spec and the corresponding Nominal Size.
- Specifically select the alternative component in the list that is not prioritized as standard.
- Click on Insert in Model.
Result: The exactly selected component is placed in the model regardless of the prioritization.
Option 2: Subsequent Replacement (Substitution)
- Select the component already placed in the model with a left-click.
- Click on the appearing blue arrow (substitution grip) on the component.
- Select the desired component from the list of available variants.
Result: The component is replaced by the selected variant, while maintaining the connection points.
Important Notes
- Standard Cases: Use placement directly via the Tool Palette for a fast workflow.
- Variants: Always use the Spec Viewer when there are multiple component options within one nominal size.
- Adjustments: The blue arrow for substitution is the most efficient way for subsequent changes to the layout.