To Convert an Object to a Mass Element

Use this procedure to convert objects to Free Form mass elements. The resulting Free Form mass element is a faceted approximation of the object. The smoothness of curved edges is controlled by the FACETDEV variable.

This variable specifies the number of facets to display on curved AEC objects.

  1. Open a tool palette that has the Convert to Mass Element tool and select the tool.

    Alternatively, you can click Home tabModify panelConvert To Mass Element. .

  2. Select the object(s) that you want to convert to a Free Form mass element, and press Enter.

    The Convert to Mass Element worksheet opens.

  3. Enter text for Description.
  4. To convert all of the selected objects into one mass element, select Convert to single boolean mass element.
  5. Alternatively, to convert the objects within your selection to separate mass elements, select Convert to individual mass elements.
  6. To erase the original geometry of the objects, select Erase layout geometry.
  7. Click OK.