Place MEP Route

Notice: Available with Archicad Collaborate or Archicad Max.
  1. Activate a Route tool from toolbox: Duct Route, Cable Carrier Route, or Pipe Route.
  2. Reference line is at the center of route segments by default. Enter an offset or adjust alignment in the Info Box as needed. (see also Edit segment reference line - alignment and offset)

    MEPRouteAlignment.png
    Note: Turn on MEP Reference Lines in 2D views at View > On-Screen View Options.
  3. In Floor Plan, Section or 3D window: Click in series to define the segments and nodes of the Route polygon.
    • Each click represents a node, which connects the adjacent segments.
    • Press Backspace to delete the last placed segment

    You can also start routing from an existing port. To choose among overlapping ports: use Tab key to cycle through the available ports, then select the one you need.

    Watch the Video: Manage overlapping connections

  4. To complete the Route, click a second time at the end of the final segment.

    PlaceMEPRoute.gif

Elbows and transitions are automatically generated at each node.

Note: When ending a route element on a terminal, accessory or equipment, use the up and down arrow keys to see alternative paths to connect the route. (See Place Terminal, Accessory, or Equipment)

Change Route parameter on the fly

Once you start placing a route element, you can change its cross-section in the Tracker.


ChangeViaTracker.gif

Because you have changed the segment’s default parameter value, it is shown in the settings dialog as “custom”.


MEPCustomSegment.png

Merge Routes

Routes will merge if:

  • An end node of one Route element is connected to the end node of another
  • A branch is deleted (remaining Routes will be merged together)
  • A branch end node is moved, disconnecting the former branch

Place Route with Magic Wand


MEPmagicwand.gif

Use the Magic Wand to place a route with a single click, based on an existing polyline or polygon.

  1. Draw a line or polyline.
  2. Choose an MEP tool (Duct, Pipe or Cable Carrier).
  3. Press the Spacebar to activate the Magic Wand, then click on the polyline or polygon.

Flexible Duct and Flexible Pipe Segments

Use these tools to easily create a flexible geometry using spline-type input. Click the port of an existing route element to connect it, or double-click to end input.

The flexible duct or pipe will not add transitions at the ends, and connections having different dimensions must be solved in the route.

See also Edit route graphically.