How to Clip a Reference File in MicroStation?

Understanding Reference Clipping in MicroStation

When working in MicroStation, effectively managing reference files is essential for a streamlined design process. Clipping a reference file allows users to focus on specific areas of a reference graphic without distraction. Below, detailed steps on how to clip a reference file are provided for clarity.

Steps to Clip a Reference File

Step 1: Prepare the Reference File

First, ensure that the desired reference file is properly attached to your current design model. This can be achieved by navigating to the Reference dialog through the File menu and choosing ‘Attach’ to select the necessary reference file.

Step 2: Select Your Clip Area

Define the clipping area using a fence. A fence is a closed shape that delineates the area you want to keep visible. To create a fence, use the Fence tool:

1. Activate the Fence tool from the toolbox.
2. Choose the appropriate method to create your fence – you can draw a polygon or use predefined shapes like circles or rectangles.
3. Draw the fence around the area you wish to keep.

Step 3: Open the References Dialog

To manage clipping for references, you have to access the References dialog. This is done by:

1. Going to the File menu.
2. Selecting References from the list to open the dialog window.
3. Here, you will see a list of all attached references.

Step 4: Select the Reference to Clip

Once you have the References dialog open, choose the reference file you want to clip from the list:

1. Locate and click on the reference you wish to modify.
2. Ensure that the correct reference file is highlighted.

Step 5: Apply the Clip

With the reference selected and the fence drawn, it’s time to clip the reference:

1. Look for the Clip Reference icon within the References dialog, which is generally represented by a scissor-like icon.
2. Click on this icon; a settings window might appear.
3. Ensure that your fence element is identified and correctly set up in the tool settings.
4. Confirm that you want to use the current fence as your clipping boundary.

Step 6: Finalize Clipping

After applying the clip command:

1. Validate that the clipping was successful by examining the reference file for the clipped showing only the designated area.
2. Make any necessary adjustments by using the Clip Boundary tool settings to fine-tune your fence as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What happens to the clipped area of the reference file?
The clipped portion of the reference file will be hidden from view in your active design model. The original reference file remains unchanged; only the visibility of the clipped area is affected.

Q2: Can I modify the clipping boundary after applying it?
Yes, once you have clipped the reference, you can modify the clipping boundary by accessing the tool settings and adjusting the fence as needed, or by redrawing a fence and applying the clip again.

Q3: Is it possible to clip multiple references at once?
Yes, you can select multiple references within the References dialog and apply the clip boundary simultaneously to save time and ensure consistency across your design file.