Understanding Reference Clipping in MicroStation
Clipping a reference in MicroStation is a useful technique that allows users to focus on specific areas of a reference file. This can enhance clarity and streamline design processes by masking out unnecessary portions of a referenced file. The following guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step approach to effectively clip a reference.
Steps to Clip a Reference in MicroStation
1. **Select the Reference**: Begin by navigating to the active design file where your references are located. In the References dialog box, identify and highlight the reference you want to clip.
2. **Activate the Reference**: Right-click on the highlighted reference to bring up a context menu. From this menu, select the option labeled “Activate”. This action allows you to make modifications directly within the reference file.
3. **Identify the Clip Boundary**: Once the reference is activated, click on any element within the reference. You will notice that the existing clip boundaries become visible, typically represented by a dashed line. This gives you a clear indication of the area that can be clipped.
4. **Choose a Clip Boundary**: Click on one of the displayed clip boundaries. Upon selection, you will see a series of handles appear at each vertex of the boundary line. These handles allow you to manipulate the shape of the clip boundary.
5. **Adjust the Clip Boundary**: Drag any of the handles to reshape the clip boundary according to your requirements. You can add additional points or modify the angles as necessary. To finalize your adjustments, accept the new shape by clicking outside the boundary or pressing the appropriate key depending on your setup.
6. **Confirm the Clipping Action**: After adjusting the boundary, ensure that you confirm the clipping action. This will apply the changes across the reference and hide any elements outside the newly defined clip boundary. Check the results in the main workspace to see if the clip meets your expectations.
Further Clipping Options
MicroStation offers different methods of clipping references, such as by using a fence or element. To use the fence method, ensure that a fence is already placed in the design file. For element-based clipping, draw the desired shape with the shape tool, and then apply the same steps to clip based on that custom boundary. Each method has its unique advantages, catering to different design needs.
FAQ
1. What do I do if I can’t see the clip boundaries?
If the clip boundaries are not visible, ensure that you have activated the reference correctly. You can check your visibility settings to confirm that clipping features are enabled. Sometimes, toggling the reference display can also help bring the boundaries into view.
2. Can I revert the clipping after applying it?
Yes, you can revert the clipping by returning to the References dialog, selecting the clipped reference, and choosing to deactivate or change the settings back to the original state. It’s essential to keep your original reference intact if you plan to make further adjustments later.
3. Is it possible to clip multiple references at once?
Clipping multiple references simultaneously is not feasible in the default settings. Each reference must be activated and clipped individually. However, you can streamline the process by following a similar procedure for each reference sequentially to save time.
