Copying Issues with Model-In-Place Components

[ZDCMapp]

Hello,

I am having issues with a model-in-place component when I create a copy of my building. The corner trim extrusions explode off the building but a few don't. I don't get it. It's like some unseen force is forbidding me from creating a copy. This has been an on going issue whether I create a copy or group. It also happens if I rotate a building. Haven't found a solid solution. I know everything is plane based but I don't have an option to pick a host face for the extrusion just a level based plane. 

[SteveKStafford]

Model in-place is not the right tool/process for repeated elements like this. These should be a component family (face based or not).

The most likely reason that these are not behaving is their relationship to reference planes/work planes that are not also being copied to the new location.

[ZDCMapp]

Please forgive my ignorance. The weird thing is some copy over just fine. They are all level based so I don't understand why they are exploding way out from the building. They are still on the same level. They are positioned off the original building for some reason. I tried a family based component but it doesn't give me the handles for adjusting the heights. I tried creating a wall sweep and that didn't work either. How would you go about creating a component?

Thanks

[SteveKStafford]

Here's a couple options to deal with corner trim:

• Component family - Generic Model Two Level Based or Generic Model template - You can get grips to stretch the top of your dimension/parameter is connected to the reference plane hiding under the level line (not the level, instead of the level) in the elevation view of the family. The Two Level based template will give you a top constraint option like a column or wall.
• Wall - Create a thin wall type (one layer) as thick as your corner trim. Sketch walls, non room bounding, at the corner of the building on the face of the primary exterior wall. Create a group for typical condition(s) and place copies of the group.

The weird behavior you're experiencing with the in-place is just one of a number of reasons to steer clear of them for multiple instances of the same design element. They are not good for managing repetition.

[ZDCMapp]

Ahhh...skinny wall. I like it. I will try both suggestions. Never used the two level family model. Still learning. 

Thanks!

[ZDCMapp]

Ok. So I tried the two level model and brought into project but I am not getting a handle to adjust the height. I have attached the family so you can check it out. I know I am not doing something right. I think you were saying I need to add dimensions in order for the handle to show in main project. Don't know how to do that.

[SteveKStafford · Accepted solution]

The Two Level family assumes you'll assign the top constraint like a wall. The attached GM family (not two level) has a grip at the top you can stretch. The key is to dimension to the reference plane under the level, use a strong reference plane at the top paired with a instance parameter for height.

[ZDCMapp]

Thank you Steve! I will be using this from here on out.