How to create a zero plane in Vectric software | Modeling Tools

Overview

This video demonstrates how to add a zero-height flat plane to a composite layout in Vectric software. The zero plane is created via the 3D modeling tools and is automatically placed on a hidden layer, preventing interference with 2D vectors or grayscale models while providing a reference surface for components that may extend below the modeling plane.

Steps

1. Open the 3D modeling tools.
2. Click Add a Plane Component with a zero height covering model.
3. A flat plane appears in the 3D view.
4. Tile the views to observe that the plane is not visible in the 2D view.
5. Open the component tree: the new component exists on its own layer named zero plane, which is intentionally hidden.
6. Turn on the zero plane layer to display the grayscale preview of the flat plane.
7. Turn the layer back off after inspecting it.
8. Select the plane component to access its properties, including base height and the floating properties dialog box.

Key Points / Warnings

• The zero plane is a standard 3D component and supports the same editing and property options as other components.
• It is hidden by default so it does not obscure 2D vectors or existing grayscale models.
• Useful when adding clipart or building a composite layout that drops below the modeling plane.
• Helps avoid potential issues when machining negative (below-plane) components.