Autodesk 00128-051462-9310 User Guide - Page 272

Element Files An element is a drawing (DWG) file. As opposed to other non-project related drawing files, an additional XML file with the same name is created. The accompanying XML file contains information to connect the drawing file to the project. NOTE The XML file is created and updated automatically. You do not need to edit it, but be careful not to accidentally delete it in Windows Explorer. Converting Legacy Drawings to Elements You can convert an existing drawing file into an element within a project. You specify the subcategory into which to move or copy the source drawing. When you copy the source drawing, you do not lose your original drawing, and you can continue to use it outside the project. When you convert a legacy drawing file into an element, the following process is performed within the software: ■ The drawing file is moved, copied, or linked to the project category you specify. ■ You can assign a different name and add a description to the file. ■ An accompanying XML file with the project information is generated. Element Templates When you create a project, you set a default template for new elements. If you convert an existing drawing file to an element, it might be based on a different template. If necessary, import styles, layer information, and other settings from the default template into the legacy drawing before or after converting it to an element. For more information about project templates, see "Project Support Files" on page 159. Elements and Constructs An element is a generic building block for multiple use. The element knows nothing about which level or division it is placed on; this information is set by the construct it is referenced into. If you create a bathroom layout as an element, you can use it on the second floor of the west wing just as well as on the first floor of the east wing. To place the element on a specific floor and wing, you need to reference it into a construct. A construct has a level and division assignment. For example, you could create an element named "Generic Bathroom Layout" and reference it into constructs named "First Floor-Left Apartment," "First Floor-Middle Apartment," First Floor-Right Apartment," and so on. Referencing an element into a construct Referencing Elements to Multiple Constructs In multi-story buildings, levels may have identical elements. You can create an element once, and then reference it into multiple constructs in one single, convenient step. For detailed information, see "Referencing an Element into Multiple Constructs" on page 226. When to Start with Elements You would start a project with creating elements in the following cases: ■ when you can identify generic building blocks in your project ■ when you start the design process from the inside-out 232 | Chapter 6 Drawing Management