Many reference planes in the structure framing templet family file

[HaniTartour]

Hello,

I am seeking clarification on the reference planes within the structure framing template family file. I find the references quite confusing, especially when I am trying to create a new structure framing family, whether I am using the extrusion method or the sweep method.

• the below screenshot from the metric template file " Metric Structural Framing - Beams and Braces " 

• however, the below screenshot from the second template called " Metric Structural Framing - Complex and Trusses " and I think it is ompletely different 

Detailed guidance on the purpose and application of each reference plane would be greatly appreciated to help me navigate this process more effectively.

Thank you!

[jay_colcombe]

A simple tip is to investigate and existing family similar for that you wish to create and review the Method used within it, it could be as simple as swapping a Profile and for the Sweep for yours and you know it will all work this is common for more complex shapes with lots of Parameters (Steel Beams).

For more simpler shapes extrusion are much easier to work with and profiles are not necessary so the method can be far easier and simpler to create (Concrete Beams)

Load an standard family it into your model and then use Edit Family to investigate it further.

In many instance you will simply Save As and rename it and use the existing framework for your Family as it is already predefined and manipulate it for your needs.

[RDAOU]

@HaniTartour 

Is this not the same question which you asked here >>  Structure Framing template files- clarifications' - Autodesk Community

Reposted:

The purpose is explicitly defined in the family template name. Both have different behavior and each reflects differently in the analytical model  

In short: 

1. The beams & braces template has more geometic positioning controls, none of which the other template offers; such as:
   • Start/End Extensions,
   • x/y/y Justification and offset values,
   • cut backs based on material behavior
   • Flip Structural Ends controls
   • and offers different graphics options
   • predefined Stick Symbols in Coarse mode
   • Can reverse polarity...etc..
2. Elements created by Beams and Braces template are cuttable by reference planes while those using Complexx and Trusses template are not
3. the placement and hosting of Beams and Braces is line based  where as the the other template is a Work Plane Based family
4. The not so special template is the Complex and Trusses...this is more or less similar to a generic model template when you switch its category to Structural framing

Which to use...+

• In general you would use the Beams and Braces templates almost most of the time for al Beams and Braces
• The Complex and Trusses, you would use if you do not intend to use the Structural Trusses templates

Beams & Braces Template:

Comples and Trusses Template