Multi Segment Grids

[lzaras]

Anybody used them yet?

I've got a project that we just updated from 2012. I'm trying to replace some of the grid lines with this new "feature." However I'm running into some issues.

Once I place the grid, it seems to lock up. I cannot change the Grid Name, nor can I erase/delete the grid without undoing.

Anybody else have issues?

(BTW, I'm using RST2013 if that seems to make any difference.)

[Alfredo Medina]

Leanne, I tested this using "OneBox" 2013, and I did not see any of the issues that you mention. I can rename the multi-segment grid, delete it, etc...

[david_peterson]

On another note, whoever decided that this is a good idea never worked in the structural field. That tool should be removed. I'm working on a current project and our Archies decided that they want to layout their nice neat curvy building with them. They are now in the process of remodeling the entire building because someone made a goof. Using the multi segment grids are just a bad idea and bad practice. Having different grid lines lets the contractor know that something changed. They are a terrible idea.
The only thing I could see them being used for is existing buildings where someone decided to "Jog" the column line (again which you shouldn't ever do).
I haven't ever had anyone give me a logical reason for jogging a grid line and keeping the same label. Contractors have a hard enough time just reading the drawings. If you don't clearly denote the change, you're going to end up with footing in the wrong location.

[lzaras]

I think I was having issues because I had some grids temporarily hidden.

The project is a ball field. The grids are straight along the baselines then arc behind home plate, offsetting the gridlines the same amount all around the seating bowl.

The project was started in RST2012 and we had so many gridlines it would make your head spin! Upgrading to 2013 with the availability of Multi-segmented grids simplified the documentation...

So, I would temporarily hide the 2012 grids to place my 2013 MSG's. That's when I ran into issues being able to edit the lines themselves and the grid bubbles. When I reset the temporary hide/isolate, I am then able to edit the MSG's.

[Dimitri Harvalias]

The grids are straight along the baselines then arc behind home plate, offsetting the gridlines the same amount all around the seating bowl.

Not being critical at all here Leanne, just trying to understand. So you're saying you have grids with the same name/number that go along the first base line, behind the plate and then the third base line? I'm with Dave on this one. There's a fine line between simplifying the documentation and introducing the potential for confusion. I don't think I've ever seen a survey instrument that can plot a curved line (surveyors in the crowd correct me if I'm wrong) so gridlines along these curves are just for the convenience of designers placing dimensions on drawings and automating column placement at intersections. Spot coordinates with northings and eastings from a common layout point would probably be the way it would be done in the field anyways so why not document it that way. I can see a bit of a case for having the option to place an 'S' shaped curved grid as a single line but straight grids that change direction or combinations of straight and curved should be a no-no

[david_peterson]

I can see a bit of a case for having the option to place an 'S' shaped curved grid as a single line but straight grids that change direction or combinations of straight and curved should be a no-no

I said curves and it was an "S" shape, but they draw it as a spline. No relationship between centerpoints of the arcs, no rhyme or reason as to where they start and ended. After I explained to them that you can't layout a building that way and was asked "Why Not?"; I had to be the barer of bad news and let them know "If I can't define it or document it to real dimensions, it's not going to get built the way you want it."

[lzaras]

Thanks Dimitri and David for enlightening me to some concerns; my engineers have instructed me to place the grid lines in this fashion, everything dimensioned and located with no issues from the civil guys on this project.

My issue was about the ability to edit the Multi-segmented grids which I think I've resolved by resetting the temporary hide/isolate.

[Dimitri Harvalias]

My issue was about the ability to edit the Multi-segmented grids which I think I've resolved by resetting the temporary hide/isolate.

Leanne. Hang around here long enough and you'll start to understand it's never about resolving the issue, it's about being able to rant and impose our opinions on everyone else
As I said, I wasn't 'calling you out' or implying that the approach was 'wrong' in any way and, even after all these years, I like to think that those in the field are generally capable of figuring out our intent no matter what we do.
I try not to rant until there is an answer provided and since you stated that you had it straightened it out (word play intended) I just thought I'd chime in.

[MikeJarosz]

it's about being able to rant and impose our opinions on everyone else

I had a bad day once and typed something nasty. I got several direct emails and 11 users looked up my profile.

Remember the early days of the net? It was called "flaming" and I was flamed!

[Dimitri Harvalias]

Well your avatar is pointing a gun at everyone so we could claim self defense