How to Clip a Raster Image in MicroStation?

Understanding Raster Clipping in MicroStation

Clipping raster images in MicroStation allows users to define specific areas of an image for better visibility, focus, or presentation. The process is user-friendly and can significantly enhance drawing accuracy and clarity. Below are the detailed steps to clip a raster image efficiently.

Step-by-Step Procedure to Clip a Raster Image

Step 1: Open MicroStation and Load the Raster Image

1. Launch the MicroStation application on your computer.
2. Ensure that the raster image you wish to clip is loaded in the active workspace. If it is not loaded, use the Raster Manager to attach the desired image.

Step 2: Access the Clip Tool

1. Navigate to the Tool Settings menu. This can typically be found on the toolbar or through the Tools menu.
2. Look for the Clip Mask tool, specifically the option labeled Apply Clip Mask By 2 Points. This will be your primary tool for initiating the clip.

Step 3: Define the Clipping Area

1. With the clip mask tool selected, position the cursor over your raster image.
2. Click to specify the first corner of the rectangular area you want to define as your clipping boundary.
3. Move the cursor diagonally to the opposite corner of the desired area and click again. This action will create a rectangular boundary that outlines the clip area.

Step 4: Apply the Clipping Mask

1. If only one view of your project is open, the clip mask will automatically apply to the raster image.
2. In the case of multiple views being open, ensure you are in the specific view where you want the clipping to be active. Click within that view to apply the clipping mask.
3. Review the clipped area to ensure that all intended sections are properly masked.

Step 5: Editing the Clip Boundary (if needed)

1. If adjustments to the clipped area are necessary, select the reference that contains the raster image.
2. Click on the element within the reference file to reveal the clip boundary line, typically shown with dashed lines.
3. Handles will appear at the vertices of the boundary. Select a handle to drag and modify the shape or size of the clip.

Step 6: Finalizing Your Work

1. Once the clipping is satisfactory, you can proceed to work on other aspects of your project, confident that the raster image is efficiently clipped to your specifications.
2. Remember to save your changes to ensure your clipped raster image is maintained for future use.

FAQ

1. Can I modify the clipped raster image later?
Yes, you can always edit the clip boundary by selecting the reference and adjusting the handles that appear. You can also remove the clipping by changing the clip settings.

2. Is it possible to clip non-raster images in MicroStation?
The clipping mask feature primarily works with raster images. For vector files, different methods such as modifying the element boundaries would be necessary.

3. What happens if I close my drawing with the clipped image?
When you close your drawing, the clipped state of the raster image will be saved in your project. Upon reopening, the raster image will remain clipped as per your last edit unless altered.