AutoCAD MEP 2010 users frequently create block-based MvParts from AutoCAD 3D solids. However, there are no toolbars or pulldown menus to access the solids commands and no solids ribbon tab available in the out-of-the-box AutoCAD MEP 2010 workspaces which makes it difficult to find the solids tools you need. Following is the simple process for adding a Solids tab to the Ribbon of the current workspace.
1. Use the Workspace Switching flyout on the Status bar at the bottom-right of your screen to set a workspace to be current where you wish to add a Solids tab to the Ribbon.
2. Right-click any ribbon tab or right-click within any ribbon panel. On the resulting menu click Show Tabs > Solids.
A Solids tab will appear on the Ribbon that provides both tools to create and edit 3D solids.
Tip within a tip! Keep in mind that unless you have your Workspace Switching (on the Application Status bar at the bottom of the screen) > Workspace Settings set to automatically save changes to your workspace as you switch from one to another, or that you perform a Save Current as… also found on the Workspace Switching flyout to update your current workspace or create a new workspace, the display of the Solids tab in your current workspace will not be saved when you switch to another workspace or close out of AutoCAD MEP.
Links to Part 2 and 3 of the Series, Simple Setup Tips for Creating AutoCAD MEP 2010 Content:
Link to Part 2 of the Series: Who Knew? Multiple Model Space Viewports Make Viewing Easy when Creating AutoCAD MEP 2010 Content: http://tinyurl.com/yzp4bs2
Link to Part 3 of the Series: Who Knew? Easily Add Shapes to Solids for AutoCAD MEP 2010 Content Creation: http://tinyurl.com/yg5ooor
