The list below contains some things that you may need to consider before you create or clone drawings in Tekla Structures:

• For assembly, single-part, cast unit, and multidrawings, the model needs to be numbered. If the model changes, the numbering needs to be updated. Numbering ensures that Tekla Structures connects the right objects to the right drawings. If you try to create drawings without numbering the model, Tekla Structures prompts you to do so. Once the model is numbered, part positions can also be shown in general arrangement drawings. Prior to numbering, if the part position is included in a mark on a general arrangement drawing, it will be shown as a question mark (?).

• Before creating fabrication drawings:
  • Check for parts with zero weight using reports or filters. Those parts can not be unfolded.
  • Check session logs for problematic solids as those parts can not be unfolded. You can also use solid error detection extensions available in Tekla Warehouse, for example, Solid error detector.
• Ensure that the position numbers are not too long, because this may cause problems in the fabrication drawing creation. If the drawing name is too long, you will get an error message "Cannot create drawing file. Name is too long." The fabrication drawing name usually consists of the following parts: drawing type + position number (mark) + sheet number, for example, "A [P.1 - 1]", where P.1 is the position number. The maximum number of the characters in the drawing name is 32.

• Check that the detailing is correct.

• You may want to create test drawings of different types of parts to see how well the predefined drawing and view properties, layouts, rule sets, or cloning templates suit your needs.

• You may want to modify drawing or view properties, or layout settings and save the modified settings for future usage.

• If you are going to use a drawing as a cloning template, check that it contains all the necessary elements for this purpose.