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Customizing Catalog-Based
Content
This chapter provides information on creating content stored in catalogs, namely, parametric and block-based parts and
fittings. For information on creating style-based content, see
Understanding Parametric and Block-Based Parts
You can create 2 types of content using Content Builder: parametric parts and block-based parts. To determine
what type of part to create, it is important to understand how each type is defined, how the parts are used
in AutoCAD MEP, and what type is best for certain parts.
Parametric Parts
Parametric parts give you the flexibility to create parts that are dynamically sized according to size parameters.
You define a parametric part by creating a 3D model of the part and assigning variables, or parameters, to
control its shape and size. Parameters are defined by individual values, lists of values, or calculated values
based on equations. When the part is placed in your drawing, you specify values for the parameters and the
part is dynamically built to reflect the specified shape and size. Parametric parts enable you to create a single
3D model for a part family that can be updated to represent multiple part sizes. Parametric parts enable you
to define millions of parts through a single model, depending on the number and type of parameters defined.
RELATED See
Creating a Parametric MvPart with Content Builder
MEP.
It is beneficial to create parts like equipment and fittings as parametric parts. Equipment, such as an air
terminal, a junction box, or a tank, share the same geometric features; however, the features change in size
according to the design. Following are examples of custom parametric parts for each module.
Mechanical: A 4 x 4-inch rectangular floor register looks the same as a 6 x 6-inch rectangular floor register,
except for the longer length and width. By creating a parametric part, you can create a 3D model of a
rectangular floor resister and assign parameters for the length and width that can change in size. When
the register is placed in your drawing, you can specify the length and width, and the register is dynamically
built to match.
Workflow for Creating a Parametric Fitting with Content Builder
Customizing Style-Based Content
on page 696 for steps to build parametric parts in AutoCAD
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on page 599.
on page 674 and
Workflow for
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