Symbols should be hybrid (2D/3D) so that they display properly in both 2D and 3D views. At a minimum, the symbol must contain a 2D representation. All instruments should be drawn with the front of the instrument (the end which emits light) oriented towards the top of the drawing.
Create the 2D view of the symbol using as few polygons and lines as possible. If possible, use a single polyline rather than individual line segments. The symbol below was created from these few constituent parts:
The line weight of the symbol is also a consideration; the instruments need to stand out when printed. The outer perimeter of the symbol should have a line weight of at least 1/2 point (7 mils). Interior details should use a lighter line weight.
The 2D representation should have a solid fill so that it obscures information under the symbol. The size of the instrument should be accurate based on the real instrument it represents. While drawing the instrument, keep the level of detail as minimal as possible. The goal is to be able to distinguish instruments from one another, not to create a detailed plan view of each instrument.
For instruments with multiple configurations, it is acceptable to use simple graphical differences to distinguish among the models. For example, use the following variations to separate the different versions of a symbol:
An easy way to generate a reasonable 3D instrument model is to sweep the 2D portion of the symbol. The segment angle of the sweep should be between 20 and 40o. See Sweeping Objects for more information.
Keep the 3D symbol simple. It should be solid. The model should be accurately sized, but without minute details like handles, grommets, fins, louvers, cords, and knobs. These items can add significantly to the rendering time required, and are not necessary to distinguish among instruments.
The insertion point of the 2D/3D hybrid symbol in Top/Plan view should represent the hanging location of the instrument. The 3D insertion point should be the hanging point (center of the clamp).
Attach the Light Info Record to the symbol, with field names that match the names of the fields in the instrument object. Not all the fields are required, but the desired fields for the instrument object to read should be included. Filling the instrument type field with the manufacturer’s name and model name for the particular instrument is recommended.
Locate the Light Info Record and select Import from the Resources menu to bring the record into the current file.
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2.
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Select the new symbol, and select Modify > Edit Symbol.
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4.
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Click on the Data tab in the Object Info palette. Attach the Light Info Record to the symbol defaults by selecting the checkbox. Then edit the record by selecting the record item and typing the information in the edit box.
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The Candlepower, Beam Angle, and Field Angle parameters affect the photometric grid and photometer object calculations. The Beam Angle and Field Angle parameters affect the Draw Beam feature.
Normally, do not include text labels with the instrument, as these are handled by the instrument object. An exception can be made to distinguish different models or lamps of an instrument. For example, create three versions of a single PAR64 symbol by adding MFL, WFL, and NSP text blocks.
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5.
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Selecting Light On in the Object Info palette of a lighting instrument includes a spot light as part of the lighting instrument. While editing the symbol, the spot light can be added, and accurate lighting information specified with the parameters in Use Emitter. See Adding Light Sources for information on adding a spot light and setting accurate lighting parameters.
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6.
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Click Exit Symbol at the upper right corner of the window to return to the drawing.
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