Feature objects in the Map module are grouped into coverages. Coverages are grouped into conceptual models.
A coverage is similar to a layer in a CAD drawing. Each coverage represents a particular set of information. For example, one coverage could be used to define meshing zones and another coverage could be used to define zones of consistent roughness parameters. These objects could not be included in a single coverage since polygons within a coverage are not allowed to overlap and material zone boundaries don't necessarily coincide with meshing zone boundaries. Altenatively, one coverage could define Cartesian grid parameters for the same zone.
Coverages are managed using the Project Explorer. When SMS is first launched, a default coverage exists. If the user creates feature objects they are placed in the current coverage. When multiple coverages are created, one coverage is designated the "active" coverage. New feature objects are always added to the active coverage and only objects in the active coverage can be edited. The figure below shows several coverages in the Project Explorer. The active coverage is displayed with a color icon and bold text. A coverage is made the active coverage by selecting it from the Project Explorer. In some cases it is useful to hide some or all of the coverages. The visibility of a coverage is controlled using the check box next to the coverage in the Project Explorer. In the example below, several design options are not displayed.
A new coverage can be created by right-clicking on a folder or conceptual model and selecting the New Coverage command in the pop-up menu.
Right clicking on a coverage brings up a menu with the following options: Delete, Duplicate, Rename, Convert, Coordinate Conversion, Metadata and Type. . The Delete, Duplicate, and Rename commands are self explanatory. The others are described below.
Coverages can be mapped to other geometric objects or Numerical models by selecting the corresponding command from the Map to Submenu.
This command allows the user to specify a coordinate conversion to be performed on this coverage.
Metadata associated with this coverage can be specified by selecting this command.
The attributes of entities on a coverages belong to a list of attributes associated with a type of coverage. For example, arcs in mesh coverages have boundary conditions compatible with the specific finite element model they are associated with, and polygons in those coverages include attributes associated with meshing types and material types.