Create a hybrid symbol

[cwailes]

Am I correct to assume that I can create a hybrid symbol by creating it in 3D and then display it in top view and then tell it to create a symbol? Or is there another way (correct) to do this?

[islandmon]

While editing the 3d part ... just add the 2d part. VW will then create the Hybrid for you when you exit > symbol

[Gerrit]

Once the 3D part of your symbol is ready, select it and Convert Copy to Polygons or Convert Copy to Lines (and choose to render with hidden lines). The result is a group of 2D elements, placed on top of the 3D.

Now select both the 3D and 2D objects and go for Create Symbol?

[mike m oz]

ccw, it is impossible for libraries to cover all of the bases so learning how to make your own symbols in 2D, 3D or hybrid (2D and 3D) is essential. Hybrid symbols have their own 2D view in Top/Plan View so that they look as you would want them to in Plan Views. For all other views you only see the 3D view.

A fairly simple process for creating Hybrid Symbols:

- Model what you want to see in 3D.

- In Top/Plan View draw what you want to see in 2D (make sure the 2D and 3D views are registered directly above one another).

- Select both the 2D and 3D parts and on the Modify menu and choose Create Symbol.

- Give it a unique name that communicates what it is.

You can unpick existing hybrid symbols to see how it is done:

- Double clicking on one in a Top Plan View and then a Top View will show you the two separate parts and how the two parts are located directly over each other so you don't get a symbol jump as you change views.

- Place two copies of a hybrid symbol alongside each other. Convert to Group the first one in Top/Plan View, and the second one in Top View. This will give you the 2D and 3D parts respectively. There is no way of getting both in the one Convert to Group.

The other skill you need to learn is creating and managing your own library files, so that you can easily find and reuse resources that you have created.

PS: The methods outlined by Islandmon and Gerrit above are also valid ways of creating Hybrid Symbols.

Edited February 6, 2008 by mike m oz