Customize dimension line arrows

If you do not find a suitable dimension line arrow in the Arrow list in the Dimension Properties dialog box, you can create and use an arrow of your own.

1. On the File menu, click Editors > Symbol editor to open the Symbol Editor.
2. Open the dimension_arrows.sym file located in the Common environment (...ProgramData\Trimble\TeklaStructures\<version>\Environments\common\symbols) or in your environment under the \symbols folder.
3. Click an empty symbol slot and sketch your symbol with drawing tools.

   You can also import AutoCAD or MicroStation files through File > Import.

4. When the symbol is completed, point the symbol slot to check the number of the new symbol at the bottom of the window.

   

5. Save the dimension_arrows.sym file by clicking File > Save.
6. Click File > Exit to close the Symbol Editor.
7. Open the dimension_arrows.txt file located in the same symbols folder as the dimension_arrows.sym file.

   The file contains a list of symbol numbers.

8. Add the number of your symbol preceded by two zeros (00) in the correct position and separate it with a comma:

   000,001,002,003,004

9. Click File > Save to save your change.
10. Create a bitmap of the new arrow and save it in the ..\ProgramData\Trimble\Tekla Structures\<version>\Bitmaps folder on your computer.

    Use the following naming convention in the file name: dr_dialog_dim_arrow_type_004.bmp.

11. Finally, restart Tekla Structures.
12. Check that the the new arrow is displayed in the Arrow list:

    • Double-click a dimension in a drawing to open the Dimension Properties dialog box, and then open the Arrow list. You should see that the new arrow symbol is available for use.