Identical Buildings in 2d & 3d

[Johnrob5]

We have 2 buildings that are nearly identitcal minus a roof and a small room. I would like to use one model to create the working drawings for both buildings (eliminating the need to draw/model identical buildings twice). This is simple enough by putting the unique roofs in a design option and creating views for the working drawings using the design options.

My question is how can i use this method and still have the ability to create A 3d view of both buildings? Also, I don't want to use model groups, in my experience complex model groups break down.

[twiceroadsfool]

Im not sure i follow...

You can duplicate the 3D views and set them to the different design options as well, as if they are showing the same building with the two different roofs, in two different views...

[sbrown]

Definately use design options.

[Johnrob5]

I'm sorry, i wasn't clear, i need to show both buildings in the same 3d view with each design option.

Thanks

[Baldwin_4-6-0]

Definately use design options.

I second this.. Use "Design Options", they are wonderful.

[twiceroadsfool]

I'm sorry, i wasn't clear, i need to show both buildings in the same 3d view with each design option.

Thanks

In the same view as in overlayed? Or one next to another?

If you want them overlayed just use two separate 3D views. If you want to see them from the same perspective you can copy a 3D camera and set it to show a different option in its properties.

If you want to show them in an actual side by side, so that the perspective of each building is different because theyre next to each other, its a little more complicated. Im not sure what i would do there... Possibly go in to a blank project and import/link it in twice, and place them side by side before setting up a camera. Im not sure how DO are when they are linked files though...

[ron.sanpedro]

Why not use Groups to get Unit Plans, Unit Floors, Unit Facades or Unit Buildings, then put the right roof on each building? You still get the ease of doing one primary model, the other is just another instance of the group. Details can be "live" in one, and Reference Other View in the other. Building sections will show the appropriate roof, which is good. All asuming you are using RAC2008 and have access to the improved Group tools.

Best,
Gordon