Define the Platform Geometry Implicitly

At this point we need to add some steelwork sections to the display:

1. Select STABILIZER/STEEL/EQUIPRACK from the Design Explorer and add EQUIPRACK to the display by selecting it and selecting 3D View > Add from the shortcut menu. See below:

   

   Note: The default type of steel should be set to Nodal. If it is not, the user is not able to pick the elements upon which to install the platform and the application will fail.

2. Select Create > Platform > type > On ID Sections, where type is Corner, Rectangular, Return Access, Walkway, Floorplate or Circular.

   To display an element creation window similar to this (the precise format depends on the type of platform specified):

   

3. If required, give the new platform a Name.

4. Check that the default settings for Floorplate Thickness, Kickplate Depth and Posts are suitable. Change them if necessary.

5. Set the Extent option gadget to show how the platform’s boundaries are to be related to the datum lines of the sections which will be used to define them. The choices are:

   

6. Click Apply.

   The user is prompted to Identify section (SCTN) (Most Northerly).

7. Use the pointer to pick the section which is used to define the north edge of the new platform. (Hint: It may be useful to have the axes displayed so that the user can pick the correct direction; use the Model > Axes option from the main menu if necessary.)

8. When prompted further, pick the sections which are to define the south, east and west edges of the platform, in that order.

   The platform will be created, complete with appropriate handrails and kickplates.

   If the user has created a corner or return access platform, a Confirm window is displayed, asking the user "Do you want to mirror the ... Platform?"

   This gives the user the opportunity to change the handrail layout by moving the rails to the opposite sides.

9. Select Yes or No as required.

An example platform (with No selected for Do you want to mirror the ... ?) is shown below: