This tutorial explains how to use the 'Copy/Array' tool in Snaptrude to create duplicate copies of objects. The Copy/Array tool allows you to create identical or unique copies of an object or group of objects in both 2D and 3D views. It is a versatile tool that can be used in both concept designing and detailed modeling.
Creating identical copies
In Snaptrude, you can make identical copies of objects, so editing one object updates all the copies automatically.
Copying Spaces
Step 1: Select the spaces to copy. Activate the 'Copy/Array' tool from the top toolbar in Design mode or use the shortcut 'C'.
Step 2: Snap to an edge or vertex of the object, then move the cursor in the desired direction.
Pro Tip: Use Arrow keys to fix the direction of movement along X, Y & Z Axis
Step 3: Enter the distance and number of copies to create. Use tab to switch between these entries. Press Enter to complete the process.
The created copies are identical, meaning edits to one object reflect on the other copies.
Copying BIM objects
Step 1: Select the spaces to copy. Activate the 'Copy/Array' tool from the top toolbar in BIM mode or use the shortcut 'C'.
Step 2: Snap to an edge or vertex of the object, then move the cursor in the desired direction.
Step 3: Enter the distance and number of copies to create. Use tab to switch between these entries. Press Enter to complete the process.
You can use these steps to copy all BIM elements, including Walls, Floor Slab, Roof, floorings, ceilings, furniture, columns, beams, and more.
Creating unique copies
Let's explore how to create unique copies (editing one object doesn't reflect on the copies) and how to create copies in the 3D view. This process remains the same for spaces & BIM object types.
Step 1: Select the object(s) to copy in the 3D view.
Step 2: Activate the 'Copy/Array' tool again from the design tab or use the shortcut' C'.
Step 3: Drag the cursor up and snap the copied items to those below. Define the distance and number of copies. Then, click the 'Unique' box to create unique copies, meaning edits to one copy won't reflect on the others.
Note: Copying objects above can create new storeys on the storey tab, allowing for quick duplication of your storey.
Making an Object Unique after Copying
Method 1: Click on the object and in the object properties tab, click on 'Make Unique'.
Method 2: Right-click on the object and click on 'Make Unique'. Or you can go to Object Properties Panel and Click on 'Make Unique' button.
Note: Follow the same steps to make BIM elements unique after copying.
Pro/tip: Copying Windows/Doors
You can also copy/array windows and doors with this tool. Let's copy a window across a wall.
Step 1: Select the window to copy. Activate the Copy/ Array Tool from BIM tab.
Step 2: Snap to an edge or vertex of the object, then move the cursor in the desired direction.
Step 3: Enter the distance and number of copies to create. Use tab to switch between these entries. Press Enter to complete the process.
If the number of Copied Windows are going beyond the wall then you will get a message indicating the same