6.5.5. Dynamic section plan

Dynamic section plan command allows you to view any cross-section of the 3d model. It slices the model with an invisible, optional-angled plan, so you can only see the content of one side of it.

For use the command you have to work in an OpenGL 3D window (image). You can use this function both in axonometric and perspective views.

The advantage of this function is that you can create a dynamic section defined by a section plane in real time. Therefore it is not just a working tool for the architects but a spectacular representation of the building.

Defining a section

Create your 3D model in an OpenGL 3D window and give focus to this window. ClickDefine section on the Edit toolbar.

You will get a section like it is shown on the pictures above.

Different markers appear on the edges and in the corners of the dynamic section plane. Using these markers you can do the followings:

Align view: This marker is found in the top-left corner of the section plane. With this marker you can create a new view where the section plane is parallel to the view plane.

Rotation: Rotation markers are found in the middle of the top and side edges of the section plane. With these markers the section plane can be rotated around horizontal and vertical axes.

Resize: This marker is found in the top-right corner of the section plane. With this marker you can resize the section plane.

Shift: This marker is found in the bottom-left corner of the section plane. With this marker you can shift the section plane to a direction defined by a normal vector perpendicular to the section plane.

Restore default position: This marker is found in the middle of the bottom edge of the section plane. With this marker you can restore the default position of the section plane. By default the section plane will be resized according to the size of your 3D model.

Create section: This marker is found in the bottom-left corner of the section plane. With the help of this marker you create a dynamic architectural section.

Limitations

Be aware of the following limitations when you work with dynamic 3D section:

• Size of the generated section: the size of the generated section is independent from the section plane you work with. You will see the whole section in every case.

• The angle of section: in every case a vertical architectural section will be created, independently from the tilt angle of the section plane.

• Section line created on the floor plan:along with the section a section line will be created on the floor plan. The length of this section line is equal with the width of the dynamic section plane. The position of the section line is defined as the horizontal centerline of the section plane projected on the floor plan.