Create item shapes and edit model geometry
Question:
I've imported a Sketchup (.skp) file into my Tekla Structures model, I'm wanting to model a few other parts and then save these parts and the imported shape as one object. What is the best way to do this and can I then duplicate this object throughout my model?
Answer:
It's great to hear you're utilising the functionality to import a Sketchup file. Firstly let's attach the parts and your imported shape together to create one object. From the Edit menu, select Added material > Attach to part. Select the part/s to attach to and then select the part/s you want to attach. Confirm the selection by clicking the middle mouse button. Tekla Structures will combine the selected parts into one single object.
You can create a shape using a single part or several parts that have been attached to each other. Select your newly combined object, right-click and select Create shape from geometry. Tekla Structures adds a new shape to the Shape Catalog using the part name as the shape name.
You can use the shape when you create items in the model. From the File menu, select Catalogs > Shape catelog. Select your shape and click OK. From Steel/Concrete menu, select Item. Pick the position you want to place your new shape, to finish press the middle mouse button. You can also modify items and shapes further in the Geometry editing mode by dragging vertexes, edges, and faces.