Step-in to reveal underlying model entities
- Last UpdatedMay 22, 2026
- 3 minute read
Common references make the model easier to change and maintain, but a drawback to this is that not all details are visible in the 3D view. To access underlying definition entities, such as envelopes or dividing surfaces, you can use the step-in method to temporarily reveal and adjust them. Any changes are reflected when you return to the higher-level view.
Double-click an arrangement (space, area or curve) to display its grips, then select a grip. Here, the selected grip is for the divider:
Enter the in-canvas command IN to reveal the underlying definition entity and make adjustments if needed. Here, the divider is now visible:
When you’re finished, enter OUT to return to the stepped-out view.
Additional ways to use step-in in Hull Design
The following possibilities are available in Hull Design, with more to be added in future releases of E3D Design:
|
Task |
How to Step-in |
|
Update the location surface of a panel. |
Select a panel and navigate to the panel (using the Power Wheel). The location surface is displayed in the canvas by a step-in operation, either by double-clicking the panel or using the in-canvas command IN. Once the location surface is displayed, it can be changed with normal surface tools. Once ready use Esc on the keyboard. The surface will be removed from the canvas and the panel is recreated picking up the changes in the location surface. |
|
Update the location of a panel. |
Double-click on a panel to enter the Edit mode and then navigate (using the power wheel) to the panel. A modelling grip is displayed in the centre of the panel and when selected, you are asked to select a new location or to use the Arrow down on the keyboard for options:
The panel is updated when the selection of location is done. |
|
Update the location of a panel. |
Double-click on a limit handle to enter the Edit mode and then double click once more to go to Curve Editing mode. Grips are displayed and the curve geometry can be changed using them as well as other tools. Once ready use the Escape button on the keyboard. The limit and panel boundary is recreated picking up the changes in the curve. |
|
Update the trace curve of a stiffener. |
Double-click on a stiffener to enter the Edit mode and then double-click once more to go to curve editing mode. Grips are displayed and the curve geometry can be changed using them as well as other tools. Once ready use the Escape button on the keyboard. The stiffener is recreated picking up the changes in the curve. |
