How to Use Sheet Set Manager AutoCAD 2016?

Overview of Sheet Set Manager in AutoCAD

The Sheet Set Manager (SSM) is a powerful feature in AutoCAD that facilitates the management of multiple layouts and sheets within a project. This tool helps organize drawing files, allows for teamwork, and streamlines publishing and archiving processes. Understanding how to effectively use SSM can significantly enhance productivity and project organization.

What is a Sheet and Sheet Set?

A sheet is essentially one of the layouts within a drawing file. Each layout can be imported into a sheet set and assigned a number, allowing you to structure your drawings logically.

Conversely, a sheet set is a comprehensive collection of sheets that belong to one or more drawing files. This collection can be managed as a single unit, making it easier to publish, share, or archive your work.

How to Access the Sheet Set Manager

1. Open AutoCAD and locate the ribbon interface.
2. Navigate to the application menu where you will find the Sheet Set Manager.
3. For users preferring the menu bar, ensure the MENUBAR is set to 1; you will find SSM under the file section.
4. You can also invoke the command prompt and type SSM to open the Sheet Set Manager instantly.

Adding Drawings to the Sheet Set Manager

1. In the Sheet Set Manager, switch to the Model Views tab.
2. Locate and double-click on the Add New Location option; a file dialog box will appear.
3. Browse to select the relevant drawing file or resource folder you wish to include, and click Open.

Inserting a Sheet List Table

Adding a sheet list table allows for better visibility and control over your sheets.

1. Click on the View tab and open the Palettes panel, selecting Sheet Set Manager.
2. Open the desired sheet set from the manager.
3. Right-click on a sheet set name or subset, then choose Insert Sheet List Table.
4. Follow the prompts in the Insert Sheet List Table dialog to finalize your table setup.

Editing Sheets in AutoCAD

Modifying an existing sheet is straightforward.

1. Navigate to the Output tab and select the Publish panel.
2. Ensure that the sheets you intend to edit are visible in the Publish dialog box.
3. Highlight the relevant sheets, right-click, and select Change Page Setup.
4. From the Page Setup list, choose the desired configuration to apply to your selected sheets.

Saving a Sheet Set

To ensure your changes are recorded and organized:

1. Access the View tab and locate the Palettes panel; open the Sheet Set Manager.
2. With an opened sheet set, select the sheets or subsets that you wish to include.
3. In the Sheet List Manager’s upper-right corner, click on the Sheet Selections button to save your configurations.

Creating a New Layout in AutoCAD

To design a new layout:

1. Click on the tab for the desired layout.
2. Access the Layout tab from the ribbon menu.
3. In the Layout panel, click on Page Setup and choose New.
4. Assign a name to your new layout and click OK.
5. Specify the printer and paper size settings, keeping the Plot Area set to Layout.
6. Confirm your selections by clicking OK.

Switching Between Layouts

Switching layouts in AutoCAD can enhance your workflow.

1. To switch from model space to another layout, double-click inside the desired layout viewport.
2. Alternatively, pressing Ctrl+R cycles through existing layout viewports.
3. To return to paper space, click anywhere outside the layout viewport.

Converting a Layout to Model Space

To export a layout to model:

1. Click on the layout tab you want to transfer.
2. Right-click on the tab and select Export Layout To Model.
3. Choose an appropriate folder for the export, name the layout, and click Save.

Changing Sheet Numbers

Updating sheet numbers in your project is essential for organization.

1. Select the sheet containing the desired view and expand it.
2. Right-click the sheet view and choose Rename and Renumber.
3. Input the new number for the sheet view and confirm any renaming.

Copying a Sheet in Sheet Set Manager

To duplicate a sheet:

1. In the Sheet Set Manager, find the layout you wish to copy.
2. Right-click on it, selecting Move or Copy from the menu.
3. In the dialog box, check the box for Create a Copy.
4. Specify the location for the new copy in the order of sheets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my Sheet Set Manager appears locked?
When a DST file is accessed, a lock icon may appear next to the sheet set name. A yellow dot within this icon indicates that the properties may be set to Read-Only. Change the file properties to unlock if necessary.

2. How can I update my sheet list table?
To refresh a sheet list table, select it in your drawing, right-click, and choose Update Sheet List Table to reflect any changes made in the Sheet Set Manager.

3. Can I create templates for sheet sets?
Yes, AutoCAD allows you to save drawing template files (.dwt), which can specify styles and settings that can be reused across multiple sheet sets.