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📦 To 3D view with Section Box

To 3D view with Section Box instantly creates focused 3D views of selected elements with automatically generated section boxes, perfect for quick 3D inspection during 2D design work.
Version 1.3 | The Best of the Best

Overview​

This tool bridges the gap between 2D design work and 3D visualization by instantly creating targeted 3D views of selected elements. Perfect for quickly inspecting specific components, understanding spatial relationships, or checking details without manually setting up section boxes and 3D views.

Key Features​

Usage includes:

  • Instant 3D Views: Creates new 3D view with automatic section box around selected elements.
  • Element-Based Focusing: Section box automatically sizes to contain all selected elements.
  • Scope Box Integration: Use existing scope boxes as the basis for section box creation.
  • Quick Inspection Tool: Ideal for checking elements during 2D floor plan or ceiling plan work.

Requirements​

Before using To 3D view with Section Box, ensure your environment meets the following prerequisites:

 Autodesk Revit: From version 2020 to newest.
 NonicaTab: NonicaTab Pro or NonicaTab Free.

Video​

Usage​

Basic Element-Based 3D Views​

  1. Select Elements: Choose the element(s) you want to inspect in 3D:
    • Individual Elements: Click on specific components (furniture, fixtures, equipment)
    • Multiple Elements: Select several related elements for group inspection
    • No Pre-Selection: Tool will prompt for selection if nothing is chosen initially
  2. Navigate to NonicaTab → To 3D view with Section Box.
  3. Automatic Processing: Tool instantly creates new 3D view with section box containing selected elements.
  4. View Result: New 3D view opens with focused view of your selected elements.

Scope Box-Based 3D Views​

  1. Select Scope Box: Choose an existing scope box that defines your area of interest:
    • Off-Axis Areas: Perfect for buildings with angled walls or irregular layouts
    • Project Zones: Use scope boxes that define specific building areas
    • Custom Boundaries: Any scope box can become a section box boundary
  2. Navigate to NonicaTab → To 3D view with Section Box.
  3. Scope Box Conversion: Tool creates 3D view using scope box dimensions as section box.
  4. Maintain Orientation: Section box follows scope box orientation, including rotated views.

Workflow Optimization​

  1. Quick Inspection During Design:
    • Working in floor plan view
    • Need to check 3D appearance of specific element
    • Select element and run tool for instant 3D view
  2. Detail Verification:
    • Select complex assemblies or connections
    • Tool creates focused view for detailed inspection
    • Continue design work with better spatial understanding
  3. View Management:
    • Each use creates new 3D view with default name
    • Rename views for permanent reference if needed
    • Delete temporary views to maintain project organization

Troubleshooting View Focus​

  1. Element Not Centered: If element appears outside optimal view:
    • Click outside the view area
    • Use Zoom to Fit to refocus on selected elements
  2. Reference Planes Interfering: Sometimes reference planes affect view framing:
    • Use zoom controls to adjust view as needed
    • Section box automatically contains all selected geometry

FAQ​

The tool will prompt you to select elements first. Simply choose the elements you want to inspect and click "Finish" to proceed with 3D view creation.

Yes! Select any scope box and run the tool. The scope box dimensions and orientation will be used to create the section box for your new 3D view, which is especially useful for off-axis or irregular building areas.

Yes, there's an "Extended To 3D View" tool that offers additional customization options for section box settings and view configuration. Both tools are available in NonicaTab.