AutoCAD® Civil 3D® 2012 Essentials: Autodesk® Official Training Guide: Essential

Understanding Corridors

A corridor consists of hundreds or even thousands of individual Civil 3D objects that are dynamically linked to one another. A good way to begin understanding how corridors work is to study how these different components come together to become a 3D representation of your design.

Understanding the 3D Chain

In Chapter 5 and Chapter 6, you used alignments to design the 2D path of a linear feature, in this case a road. In Chapter 7 and Chapter 8, you designed the vertical path of the road using profiles. When combined, the alignment and profile form a three-dimensional pathway called a 3D chain. The 3D chain serves as the backbone of your design.

3D chains can actually be seen in your drawing, but only if you view the drawing ...