The new ‘Shell’ tool

You can use the Shell tool to create 3D surfaces or 3D objects that are parallel to and at a specific distance from any existing 3D surfaces or object.

Using the Mode options, you can define how the edges of the resulting solid are to look:

• Surface normal:
  The surface normal defines the edge.
• Consider adjoining surfaces:
  When creating the new surface, the program considers surfaces that you have not selected but that are connected with the reference surfaces.
• Defined direction:
  You can define the direction of the edge by clicking two points.

The Offset distance between the reference surface and the parallel surface can be applied as follows:

• Positive direction:
  Allplan applies the offset in the direction of the surface normal of the reference surface.
• Negative direction:
  Allplan applies the offset in the opposite direction of the surface normal of the reference surface.
• On both sides:
  Allplan applies the offset equally to both sides of the reference surface in the direction of the surface normal, thus creating two new surfaces.

  Note: The direction of the surface normal depends on how and in which direction you enter the reference surface.

  Note: The Offset distance to the reference surface can even be zero. For example, you can create an identical surface or partial surface of a solid and then assign a finish to this surface. By placing this surface in front of the solid, you can produce a striking depth during rendering or in animation.

You can use the Trim division point option to add triangular surfaces to the edges between the reference surfaces that are selected and the adjacent surfaces that are not selected.

You can use the Closed volume option to create a solid between the reference surfaces and the parallel surfaces.