These profile cross sections are used in the Molded Forms and Structural Detailing tasks.
Profile cross-section symbol definition using 2D Symbols allows:
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Flexibility in the shape of the profile cross-section.
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Referencing by other symbols such as slots and collars.
In a plant model, a member cross-section symbol is placed on a member line and extruded along the member line to create the three dimensional profile of the member. In a marine model, a profile cross-section symbol is placed on a profile system landing curve and extruded along the landing curve to create the three dimensional profile.
Because symbols are parametric, one symbol can be used to represent multiple cross-sections. For example, one angle symbol can be used for the entire AISC class of angles.
Cross-section symbols must be created in the positive U-V quadrant in 2D Symbols. When a profile is placed in the model, the U-V axes are mapped to the local X-Y axes of the member or landing curve.