While parametric parts do not require schematic symbols, generally you create them for use in schematic diagrams. If a part does not have a schematic symbol, the part is not visible in schematic representations of a system. If a part does have a schematic symbol, you have the option of also using it in 1-line and 2-line representations of a system in Top (plan) view. This can be helpful for differentiating systems in a design, for example, supply and return HVAC systems.
Model and schematic representations of parts
Symbol and Annotation Plane
You create schematic symbols for parametric parts on the Symbol and Annotation plane, a horizontal plane to which you attach the symbol geometry, associated constraints and dimensions, and annotation.
Symbol and Annotation plane in the drawing area
Symbol and Annotation plane in the Content Builder part browser
In many ways, the Symbol and Annotation plane behaves like the work planes to which you attach the features of the part model. You attach the features of the symbol to the Symbol and Annotation plane, and you can make the plane visible or invisible, isolate its contents, or hide its contents. However, unlike the work planes that you create manually, the software automatically creates the Symbol and Annotation plane when you begin a new part in Content Builder.
As shown in the previous illustration, the default position of the Symbol and Annotation plane on the Z axis in the World Coordinate System (WCS) is high above the WCS origin. This keeps the plane and its contents out of the way while you are working on your part model. If desired, you can change the Z position of the plane. To do so, right-click the plane in the part browser, click Change Plane Position, enter a new value for the Z position, and press Enter.
Creating Schematic Symbols for Parametric MvParts
You can create a schematic symbol for a parametric MvPart at any time. However, only parts that you add to drawings after you have created the symbol can use the symbol. You cannot update previously inserted parts to use the symbol.
There are 2 types of schematic symbols that you can add to parametric MvParts:
- Parametric. This type of symbol scales proportionally with the part. You create parametric symbols using parametric features: parametric geometry, dimensions, and constraints.
- Block-based. This type of symbol scales uniformly instead of proportionally. You create block-based symbols using standard AutoCAD objects, such as lines, arc, and circles. You can create the symbol from scratch, or you can insert an existing AutoCAD MEP 2022 toolset symbol or 2D AutoCAD block from a DWG file.