Tags in MicroStation serve as critical data elements that are attached to graphical elements within your design files. They allow users to store additional information related to the elements, such as project specifications, dimensions, or material types. This functionality enhances the ability to manage and manipulate data within a project.
Understanding Tags
Tags in MicroStation are akin to metadata. This means each tag can hold specific details about an associated element. This is particularly useful in large-scale projects, where keeping track of various attributes is essential for coherence and organization. Tags can be used for reporting, sorting, or labeling elements based on their characteristics.
Creating and Adding Tags
Access the Tag Tool: Open the Tasks dialog and navigate to the Drawing toolset. Here, select the Edit Tags tool or enable the Tags toolbox from the Tools menu.
Select the Element: After activating the tag tool, MicroStation prompts you to select the element to which you want to add the tag. Click on the relevant graphic element in your drawing.
Initialize Tag Creation: After selecting the element, a dialog box will appear prompting you to define the tag set. Enter the tag information you wish to attach, such as the tag name and value.
- Finalizing: Once you’ve entered all required information, confirm to create the tag. It will now be linked to the selected element.
Viewing Tags
To visualize tags associated with an element:
Activate the Tag Tool: Open the Tasks dialog and again select the Edit Tags tool.
Select an Element: Click on the element that you know has tags attached. The tag information will be displayed in the tag editor.
- Adjust Visibility Settings: If tags are not visible, ensure that the display settings are set to show tags. This can be adjusted from the settings menu.
Copying Tags
Duplicating tags can streamline processes, particularly when similar elements are used repeatedly:
Preparation: Ensure you have the correct VBA macro loaded by extracting the necessary files to a designated folder.
Launch the Macro: Use the MicroStation key-in command
vba run [CopyTags]modMain <tag set name>, replacing<tag set name>with the specific name of the tag you wish to duplicate.- Finalize the Copy: Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the copying process successfully.
Editing and Modifying Tags
Tags can require modifications based on design changes. Here’s how to edit existing tags:
Select the Element: Use the Edit Tags tool to choose the element with the tag you intend to change.
Access Tag Information: The tag editor will appear, displaying the current tag data. Make necessary changes to the tag details.
- Save Changes: Confirm to save the edits made to the tags associated with the element.
Turning off Tag Display
In some cases, it may be necessary to disable tag visibility to focus on other aspects of your design:
Select the Tags: Use the Edit Tags tool to identify the relevant tags or elements.
Display Options: From the options menu, select the ‘Off’ setting. This will hide the tags from your immediate view.
- Confirm the Setting: Place a data point on the selected area to confirm the change.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can tags in MicroStation be used for reporting?
Yes, tags can be utilized for generating reports where specific attributes of elements need to be extracted. This capability helps in project analysis and documentation.
2. Is it possible to transfer tags between different MicroStation files?
Yes, tags can be exported and imported between MicroStation files through proper management of tag sets using the appropriate VBA tools.
3. Can tags be linked to external databases?
MicroStation supports linking tags to external databases, making it possible to connect design elements with real-time data, thus enhancing project management and coordination.
