Outlines are categorised into different types, body, load etc. You can switch the different types of outline on or off later when analysing the swept path. Furthermore, within each type of outline, you can define different groups of shapes. So, for example, you might define a low loader trailer with two shapes in the Load Outline group, one representing an excavator (called Excavator) and another representing a dumper truck (called Dumper). Like the outline groups these can be independently switched on and off later.
To add a new outline, highlight the type, e.g. Body outline, Load outline etc., or group, and click the New button. A blank shape will be added either in a new default group or in the group you selected.
The top window contains an expanding tree view of the defined outline types. Each may contain zero or more groups of shapes. Two groups, Body outlines and Load outlines are special types that are referenced elsewhere in the unit details. Body outlines typically contains at least one group of shapes that defines the shape of the body of the unit. The Load outline may contain a shape group that represents a load.
The lower frame lists the details of the currently selected entry in the tree view. As you move the cursor over different objects in the tree the details change.
To add a new body outline, highlight the Body outline type and click the New button. A new shape group containing a single shape is displayed. Select the required shape Type from the drop down list box (Rectangle, Circle, Arc, Arc Segment, Line, Tram body, Tractor body, Aircraft body, Jet Exhaust Contour, Wing Mirror or Text) and enter the requested values.
Enter the X Offset and Y Offset to position the shape as required. Note that certain shapes have a Mirror about the X-axis check box. Use this to copy an asymmetrically placed shape about the X-axis.
You can import shape outlines from your drawing rather than defining them from scratch. Highlight the outline type that you wish to add and click the Import button. The Import dialog is displayed.
To remove a single shape or group of shapes, highlight it in the tree view and then click the Remove button. You cannot remove outline types (i.e. Body outline etc.) from the tree view.
New shape groups or shapes are given default names. To change the name of a shape or shape group simply highlight it and then click once.
Load outline shapes represent objects that are not part of the base vehicle. The good example is an excavator being carried on a low loader. Shapes of this type may optionally be excluded from calculations of steering angle that are based upon wall to wall turning circle.
Groups of shapes may be offset from the unit datum and individual shapes may be offset from the shape group datum. You can move a group of shapes without having to move each individual shape.