Understanding Drop Dimensions in MicroStation
Drop dimensions are an essential feature in MicroStation that allows users to decompose dimension elements into simpler forms, such as lines, arcs, and text. This functionality is particularly useful for customizing and adjusting the appearance of complex drawings in architectural and engineering designs.
Steps to Drop a Dimension Line in MicroStation
To effectively drop a dimension line in MicroStation, follow these detailed steps:
Select the Dimension Elements: Begin by navigating to the design area and clicking on the dimension element you wish to modify. Hold down the Shift key to select multiple dimensions if necessary.
Access the Drop Dimension Tool: Locate the tool for dropping dimensions. This can usually be found in the main toolbar or under the ‘Modify’ section. Be aware that this tool will not function on any selected objects that are not classified as dimension elements.
Initiate the Drop: After confirming your selection, click on the Drop Dimension Element tool. If your selection does not include any dimension elements, you’ll see a notification stating “Nothing to drop” in the status bar.
- Check Resulting Changes: Once the process is completed, review the modifications to ensure that the dimensions have been successfully broken down into their separate components.
How to Drop an Element in MicroStation
The process of dropping an element in MicroStation varies slightly from dropping dimensions. Follow these steps for dropping general elements:
Select the Target Element(s): Click on the graphic element(s) in your design model that you wish to drop.
Activate the Drop Element Tool: From the toolbar, find the Drop Element tool. This tool may require specific settings that filter the type of elements you want to affect.
Set Element Type Preferences: Before initiating the drop, make sure to adjust the settings to designate the type(s) of elements you want to drop. This ensures that you only modify the intended selections.
- Confirm the Drop Action: Once you are satisfied with your settings, proceed to accept them and carry out the drop. The tool will then process your selected elements accordingly.
Adjusting Dimension Text in MicroStation
Changing dimension text in MicroStation is another common task. Here’s how to do it:
Open the Text Toolbar: Navigate to the main menu and follow this path: Tools > Main > Text to display the Text toolbar.
Select the Existing Dimension Text: Use the Edit Text tool from the Text toolbar. Click on the dimension text you wish to modify.
- Edit Your Text: You can either add new text or completely replace the existing dimension value with new information. Make sure to finalize your edits before closing the toolbar.
Proper Dimensioning Techniques
Every designer aims for precise dimensioning. To ensure you are dimensioning correctly:
Understand the Types of Dimensions: Be familiar with the basic types of dimensioning—linear, radial, angular, ordinate, and arc length.
Utilize Dimension Tools: Use the Dimension toolbox effectively, ensuring you choose the right dimension type for the element you are measuring or labeling.
- Follow Standards: Always adhere to relevant industry standards for dimensioning, which can help maintain clarity and accuracy across your designs.
Dimensioning Curves in MicroStation
To dimension a curve effectively in MicroStation:
Select the Curve Element: Click on the curve or arc within your design that you wish to dimension.
Access the Arc Size Tool: From the Dimension toolbox, choose the option labeled “Arc Size” under the Dimension Angular tool.
- Final Adjustments: After placing the dimension, you may want to adjust its position or appearance to ensure it aligns with your design standards.
FAQs
1. What happens if I accidentally drop the wrong element in MicroStation?
If you drop an unintended element, you can use the Undo function (Ctrl + Z) to revert the changes made and restore the original state of your drawing.
2. Can I drop multiple dimension elements at once?
Yes, you can select multiple dimension elements before activating the Drop Dimension Element tool. Just make sure all selected items are indeed dimension elements.
3. Are there any alternative ways to edit dimensions in MicroStation?
Beyond using the Drop tools, dimensions can also be edited directly through their properties or by using dimension-specific modification tools available in the software.
