Understanding Part Builder

[Openwheeler]

In the "Before You Begin" section of the User Guide, it says..."Warning : Before using Part Builder to create or modify pipe network parts, it is important that you create and save a backup copy of the AutoCAD Civil 3D pipe network part catalogs and support files. These files are installed by default in the following location: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Autodesk\C3D 2008\enu\Pipes Catalog. Create and save a backup copy of this folder and its contents, including all subfolders and their corresponding content.
Individuals experienced with parametric modeling design, concepts, and techniques should be comfortable making use of the full spectrum of features available through Part Builder. Individuals with little or no experience with parametric modeling should be comfortable using the more basic Part Builder features, such as adding or changing part sizes in existing part families. For more information, see Editing Part Family Sizes."


I have backed the directory up to start using this part builder, but I'm wondering if I should take heed to what it says about individuals with little or no experience with parametric modeling. Because that is defiantly me! Should I just try to modify something that's already in the list? Do I copy or create, then modify an existing duplicate...What’s the best way to make/have a part available for a 10' x 20' rectangular sewer manhole that will have weirs in it? I'm reading the guide and checking post for ideals in how to accomplish this special structure needs in our pilot project. Obviously this structure will have multiple pipe segments connecting to it...I don't know if that matters or not.

Thank you for the direction and help.

[Openwheeler]

I see that I can edit a part size in a part family...at first glance, this may be the best way to go. Please let me know if I'm HOT or COLD on this topic. Thanks

[brian.hailey933139]

That's the approach I would take. For example, you are trying to model an inlet that is basically a box structure that is 12.27' long and 3.53' wide. Go into partbuilder, find a part that already exists that is basically this structure (no need to get too exact with the top portion of the part) and add new sizes to the parameters.

If you want to get really into it, there was a class at AU this last year that went into partbuilder for waterline structures and check out the blog http://civil2inventor.wordpress.com/ for a walkthrough on using partbuilder. It was written by a guy that uses both Inventor (very parametric modeling based) and Civil 3D. I haven't gone through it yet but it is definitely on my to do list.

[Openwheeler]

Thanks Brian. I'll check out the blog when I get more familiar and comfortable with part builder. It's going well in just adding new sizes right now, but I'm sure the time will come that we'll (I’ll) need to get the hands dirty, so to speak. This book, "Mastering AutoCAD Civil 3D 2008" (or 2009) has helped a great deal in the speed of mastering techniques. It's a must for anyone transitioning to the format, and I know an experienced user would value it as well. Thanks again for the reply and guidance.

[egmoreno]

Just a comment on Part Builder, what Brian suggested is the most fail proof and simple way of adjusting parts. When you get more accustomed to this method, you'll start understanding more about further customizing parts. The most important thing in Part Builder is understanding the nomenclature; cone, barrel, frame, wall thickness vs. slab thickness, then adding thumbnails to help further illustrate the part. I attended the class @ AU that he mentioned and I can say that it is one of the most difficult things to model a part parametrically. I am now getting into modeling footings and structures, which is a total different monster. The possibilities are endless really once you get it. The energy invested I guess pays off in the long run. Anyways, I digress.

Thought I'd share though. Not too many people talk on this so it's fun to at least get to spit on the subject. Thanks and good luck.