Understanding Shared Cells in MicroStation
MicroStation offers various functionalities that enhance the efficiency and organization of your design projects. One of these features is the concept of shared cells, which serve a purpose similar to the blocks found in AutoCAD. Shared cells allow you to create instances of a single design element that is stored only once in the DGN file. Hence, when you modify one instance of a shared cell, the changes automatically propagate to all other instances. This functionality promotes consistency and saves time, particularly in complex designs.
Creating a Shared Cell in MicroStation
To create a shared cell in MicroStation, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Design the Elements: Begin by creating the elements that you wish to include in your shared cell. This could be a combination of lines, shapes, text, and other drawing elements.
Select the Elements: Once your elements are finished, use the selection tool to highlight all the elements you want to group together into the shared cell.
Open the Create Cell Dialogue: Navigate to the “Cell” menu in the toolbar. From the dropdown, choose the option labeled “Create Cell”. This action brings up the Create Cell dialog box.
Configure Cell Settings: In the Create Cell dialog, specify the appropriate settings for your shared cell. This includes naming the cell clearly and choosing the cell library where it will be stored.
Select the Shared Cell Option: Ensure that you check the box or select the option for creating a ‘Shared Cell’. This designation is crucial for the functionality you wish to achieve.
Place the Cell in the Library: After configuring your settings and confirming the shared cell option, finalize the creation of the cell by placing it into the designated cell library.
- Test the Cell: After the cell has been created, place instances of the shared cell into your drawing. Make modifications to one instance and verify that all other instances reflect this change accurately.
Editing a Shared Cell in MicroStation
Editing a shared cell is straightforward but has specific steps that need to be followed:
Select the Shared Cell: Identify the shared cell instance within your design that you wish to edit.
Use the Drop Command: Key in the command
DROP SHARECELL. This command will prompt you to confirm the conversion of the shared cell to an unshared cell.Choose the Cell to Edit: Identify the specific instance of the cell you want to modify. Once selected, you can edit the elements within this instance.
- Save Changes: After completing your edits, you may need to re-create the shared cell if you want to maintain the shared functionality across instances.
Finding and Managing Shared Cells
To efficiently locate and manage shared cells within your project, consider the following methods:
Using the Search Tool: Open the Search tool in MicroStation and input the name or attributes of the shared cell you’re looking for. This tool helps in quickly identifying instances of shared cells.
Cell Library Management: Regularly maintain your cell libraries by organizing shared cells into categories. This will improve your workflow by allowing quick access to commonly used cells.
- Updating Cell Libraries: If you make extensive changes or add new shared cells, keep your cell libraries updated to reflect these changes. Regular management ensures your designs stay current and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main advantage of using shared cells in MicroStation?
The primary advantage of shared cells is the ability to modify one instance of the cell, which automatically updates all other instances throughout the design. This fosters consistency and saves time in complex projects.
2. Can I convert a shared cell to an unshared cell after it has been placed?
Yes, you can convert a shared cell to an unshared cell using the DROP SHARECELL command, allowing you to make individual modifications without affecting other instances.
3. Is it possible to replace a shared cell with a different design element?
Yes, you can replace a shared cell by selecting the existing cell and then choosing a new cell from the library to replace it. Ensure that the option for ‘Use Active Cell’ is properly configured based on your needs.
