This the 1st of a 4-part series on how to utilize subassemblies to fill in the gap on divided roadways. Here the Link to Marked Point from the Tool Palettes Generic tab will be used:
These subassemblies need to be built in the correct order and even though at times the layout might look wrong, they work!
Generic Subassemblies: Link to Marked Point (the tool)
From the HELP file:
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This subassembly is a general purpose utility to connect a link from the attachment point to a previously named marked point. It can be used in a variety of situations, including connecting between adjacent roadways where the relative offsets and elevations vary, or across a gore area between converging roadways. Use the MarkPoint subassembly if the connecting point has not already been named.
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Generic Subassemblies: Marked Point (the key)
From the HELP file:
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This subassembly is used to mark an existing point on the assembly with a name. This is usually done so that other subassemblies can later insert links that attach back to this point (for example, LinkToMarkedPoint). The attachment point is the point that is marked. You can add user-defined point codes to this marked point.
In the example below, there are two roadways with independent profiles. Once the links for the first roadway are created, the point at the left outside edge is being marked. Later, after the links for the second roadway are created, a link can be inserted from its right outside edge back to the marked point.
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How to put it all together: Assembly (the secret)
Per the help file above, to use the Link it must be paired with a Marked Point. The key things to remember here are:
- Name the Marked Point (case matters)
- When using the Link, set for the Name of the Marked Point
- Ensure correct Build in order, Marked Point FIRST, then Links.
First, the Marked Point. In the example below, it is given the name “MP”
It can be added to the LEFT or RIGHT side of the Assembly (depending on the original creation order). Here placed on the RIGHT inside edge of Pavement (stylized and shown below as an Orange Triangle).
Then, use the Link Slope Between Points subassembly, making sure to set Marked Point Name
Shown here (because of the original build order) attachment is to the LEFT side of Assembly, on the inside edge of pavement. Notice the “Layout Mode” on the screen.
Last, make sure the build order is correct as listed in the Assemblies Properties dialog boxes. Note if the RIGHT or LEFT attachment was created FIRST, that is how we decide where the Marked Point and Link should be attached.
The way I think about his is similar to air travel, we need to know where to land (Named Marked Point) to then be able to take off (smart Link)
If everything is right, our corridor will be built correctly as shown in the cross-sections below:
Upon a closer inspection of the cross-section, a single slope link is created.
I hope this cleared up any confusion on how to pair the Generic Links with Marked Points. Stay tuned for the next posts on other methods to fill the roadway gap.
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More Content by Leo Lavayen
