The Network Tool

In this tutorial, we will walk you through the use of the Network tool to create a simple network for illustrating a sprinkler layout plan. The availability of networks and line types depends on your partnership's setup in the network library, which can be accessed from the administration section of the main menu.

Note: If your partnership doesn't have any networks set up yet, you'll need to either upload existing networks or create new ones before you can effectively use the Network tool. Please refer to the video on Network libraries for more detailed information on this process.

Drawing Network Lines

In the toolbar, locate and select the "Network Tool" then choose the Network Type from the Tool Settings  Using the "Line Tool" ensure that "Snapping" is turned on. Start drawing lines throughout the building to represent the water distribution lines for the sprinkler network. These lines will serve as the pathways for water distribution to sprinkler heads.

Editing Network Lines

Network lines can be edited just like any other lines in PlanStudio. You can manipulate them by selecting and moving their nodes. Use the toggles to curve the lines if needed. This allows you to create intricate network layouts.

Contact or Non-Contact Mode

While drawing your networks, you have the option to choose between "Contact" and "Non-Contact" mode, Contact mode means each line will create an intersection wherever network lines touch where Non-contact mode will allow lines to pass over each other without intersecting.

Choose the mode that best suits your design needs and preferences.

Configuring Icons and Relationships

Once you've drawn your network lines, you can snap icons to these lines. In an Icons inspector panel you can configure the icons to be mounted to a network, This action establishes a relationship between the icon and the network, indicating that the icon represents a component within the network, such as a sprinkler head.

By following these steps, you can effectively use the Network tool in PlanStudio to create and visualize your sprinkler layout plan or any other type of network layout you require for your building project. Remember to refer to your partnership's network library for available network types and configurations.