Like other object-oriented CAD systems, SoftPlan "Std" window types (Std casement, Std single hung, etc.) are "parametric", thus allowing the user to edit parameters to change the size, look and type of window.

But it is the ability to create "custom" windows, which really sets SoftPlan apart. Creating custom openings of virtually any design is one of the most powerful features of SoftPlan, greatly enhancing renderings, saving drafting time, and allowing for unlimited design possibilities.

Custom openings are actually incredibly easy to create:

Step One: "Draft" the elevation of the opening.

All you will need is the basic SHAPE tools (LINE, BOX, ARC, etc.) to "draw" the custom opening at actual scale.

Use a "dashed" line style to indicate limits of glazing within the openings.



As with any "line work", utilizing some of the TOOL commands (FILLET, TRIM, OFFSET, etc.) will be helpful for precision drafting.



Step Two: Place the custom opening into the Libraries.

Use the following commands:

FILE / LIBRARY / OPENING / ADD ITEM

Give the opening a name and put it in the appropriate library and you're done!

You are now free to use your new custom opening.

Note: The opening elevation that you've drawn will "stretch" out of proportion to match the size of the opening as edited on the plan. Therefore, it is a good idea to create additional custom openings at 6 or 8-inch size intervals.



Utilizing photographs (bitmaps) of actual doors is wonderful for rendering work, but creating custom SoftPlan openings not only works for renderings, but for elevations as well.

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