Resize and reshape model objects

Tekla Structures
2021
Tekla Structures

Resize and reshape model objects

You can resize, reshape, and move model objects by using direct modification handles. When you select an object, Tekla Structures displays the handles and dimensions that are specific for that model object.

Direct modification can be used with the following object types:

  • Parts
  • Construction objects
  • Grids and grid lines
  • Line cuts and polygon cuts
  • Reinforcement
  • Rebar set guidelines, modifiers, and leg faces
  • Pour breaks
  • Custom parts
  • Loads
  1. Ensure that Direct modification is switched on.

    To switch direct modification on or off, click or press D.

  2. Click the object to select it.

    Tekla Structures displays the handles that you can use to modify the object.

    The relevant dimensions are shown when you move the mouse pointer slowly over the object's edges. The dimension colors follow the colors of the work plane coordinate axes: red in the X direction, green in the Y direction, and blue in the Z direction. Diagonal dimensions are magenta.

  3. To reshape the object, drag any of the handles.

    Here are some examples of direct modification handles:

    Handle Description

    Reference point handle

    Midpoint handle

    End point handle (for reinforcing bars only)

    Plane handle

    Line handle

    Axis handle (for items and custom parts only)

    Rotation handle (for items and custom parts only)

    Tip:

    You can use the snap switches when dragging a handle. To temporarily disable the snap switches, hold down the Shift key when dragging a handle.

  4. To give an exact value for a dimension, modify the dimension value.
    1. Click a dimension to select it.

    2. Type a new value.

      The yellow arrow defines the direction in which the object is extended or shortened. You can change the direction by clicking the arrows.

    3. Press Enter to confirm the new value.

  5. To change a dimension only from one end, move the dimension arrowheads.

    You can either drag an arrowhead to a new location, or you can type an exact distance or coordinates.

    1. Select the dimension arrowhead you want to move. For example:

      To change a dimension at both ends, select both arrowheads.

    2. Type the distance or coordinates.

      When you start typing, Tekla Structures displays the Enter a Numeric Location dialog box. Click OK to confirm the dimension.

  6. To add a new object corner, drag a midpoint handle . For example:

  7. To display more modification options, select a handle.

    A contextual toolbar appears with more options. The availability of the options depends on the object and handle you have selected.

    Click this button

    To do this

    Location

    Move a handle to any location in the 3D space.

    Move a handle in the XY plane only.

    Move a handle in the Z direction only.

    Move a handle along the reference line only.

    Move a handle in the parallel direction only.

    Move a handle in the perpendicular direction only.

    Move a handle parallel to a certain plane only. Select the plane and drag the handle to a new location.

    This option can be useful when working with a sloped roof, for example.

    Control the visibility of direct modification dimensions. Click the eye symbol to show or hide dimensions.

    • X, Y, Z dimensions: All orthogonal dimensions in the work plane directions X, Y, and Z are displayed.

    • Total dimensions: Only the total length is displayed.

    Show or hide midpoint handles.

    Add a new point at the end of an object.

    Only available for objects that pass through multiple points, such as polybeams, panels, strip footings, and rebar set modifiers.

    Note:

    Some of these options are located in an expandable section on the contextual toolbar. Click the small triangle symbol on the contextual toolbar to show or hide the options:

  8. To delete a handle, select it and press Delete.
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