Creating Tags in MicroStation V8i: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding Tags in MicroStation
Tags are essential tools in MicroStation V8i for organizing and managing information within your designs. They allow designers to attach metadata to drawing elements, which can then be extracted or manipulated for various purposes.
Step 1: Accessing the Tag Definition Interface
Start by navigating to the main menu. Locate the “Element” dropdown at the top of the application. Click on it to reveal a list of options. From this list, select “Tags” and then choose “Define.” This action opens the Tag Set dialog box, which is where you’ll create and manage your tags.
Step 2: Creating a New Tag Set
In the Tag Set dialog box, focus on the Sets window. You will find an “Add” button; click on it. This prompts the Tag Set Name dialog box to appear. Here, enter a meaningful name for your tag set that reflects its intended use. After assigning the name, confirm the action to create your new tag set.
Step 3: Adding Tags to Your Tag Set
Once your tag set is established, you can begin adding tags. With the Tag Set dialog box still open, select your newly created tag set from the list. Then, look for the “Add” button within the Tags window of the dialog box. Clicking on it opens another dialog where you can specify details for the new tag, such as its name, description, and data type. Input your desired information and press “OK” to incorporate the tag into your set.
Step 4: Assigning Tags to Elements
After creating your tags, it’s time to associate them with drawing elements. Select the element you want to tag. Once selected, right-click to open the context menu, then choose “Add Tag.” This allows you to select from the tag set you previously defined. Choose the appropriate tag and assign it to the element, ensuring the relevant metadata is attached.
Step 5: Editing Tags When Necessary
If changes are needed for your tags or tag sets, return to the Tag Set dialog box. Here, you can select the tag you wish to modify. After selecting it, use the available “Edit” button to update details such as the tag name or description. Save your changes to ensure they are updated in the drawing.
Step 6: Removing Unused Tags
If certain tags are no longer needed, you can easily remove them. Open the Design History Tags dialog by navigating through the menu: Drawing > Utilities > Design History > Tags. Find the specific tag you want to delete and select it. Clicking the “Delete Tag” icon triggers a confirmation message. Confirm your choice to permanently remove the tag from the tag set.
FAQs
1. Can I use tags for multiple elements in MicroStation V8i?
Yes, tags can be assigned to multiple elements. You can attach the same tag to different elements, allowing for organized data collection across your project.
2. Is it possible to export tag data to Excel?
MicroStation allows you to export tag data to Excel, facilitating easier management and manipulation of your drawing metadata outside the software.
3. Can I revert changes made to tags in MicroStation V8i?
MicroStation includes a Design History feature, which records changes, allowing you to track and revert alterations made to tags if necessary. However, ensure that Design History is enabled to take advantage of this feature.