Understanding Live Nesting in MicroStation
Live nesting in MicroStation refers to the capability of handling design files with multiple hierarchical levels of references, allowing users to work seamlessly with nested attachments without needing to open each file separately. Through live nesting, an active DGN file can consist of not only direct references but also references that themselves contain additional references. This method enhances productivity, as users can visualize and manage extensive project files more efficiently.
The Mechanics of Live Nesting
Hierarchy of Attachments: When a design file is attached as a reference, any additional references within that file are termed nested references. These references can be visualized at various depths, enabling an individual to view the cumulative content of several design files in a single environment.
Accessing Nested Attachments: Users can navigate through these layers to inspect or edit nested references. This makes it easier to handle complex projects where various contributors might be working on different components of the design.
- Impact on Workflows: Live nesting minimizes the need for file switching, thus streamlining workflow processes. Users can make changes or adjustments in one area and immediately see the impacts on nested references, facilitating more dynamic collaborations.
Steps to Add References Using Live Nesting
Open the References Dialog: Navigate to the ‘References’ panel within your MicroStation workspace.
Attach Your Reference: Click on the ‘Attach Reference’ icon and select the design files (DGN) you want to incorporate.
Choose Attachment Method: From the attachment method options, prefer the ‘Interactive’ method and click ‘OK’.
Adjust Settings: Modify any necessary settings related to the attachment and finalize by clicking ‘OK’.
- Expand to Access Nested References: After successfully attaching a reference, you can explore nested folders within the reference manager by expanding the attached file in the references dialog.
Managing Your References
Sending References to the Back
Open File Menu: Start from the ‘File’ menu and proceed to ‘Reference’.
Access Update Sequence: In the References dialog, navigate to ‘Settings’ and then select ‘Update Sequence’.
- Rearranging Order: Select the reference you want to reposition and utilize the arrow buttons to move it up or down in the sequence.
Overriding Reference Levels
Launch Level Manager: Open the Level Manager tool from your toolbox.
Modify Attributes: Click on the attribute (such as Color or Linestyle) that you wish to override.
- Select Override Options: When prompted, choose ‘Symbology’ and then toggle the override setting to ‘Off’ or apply desired modifications.
FAQs
1. What benefits does live nesting offer for large projects?
Live nesting allows users to manage complex multi-file designs all from one interface, improving overall efficiency, collaboration, and oversight of changes across interconnected files.
2. How do I ensure all nested attachments are visible in my design?
Ensure that you have the appropriate view settings enabled in the References dialog, which will allow you to display all nested attachments. Check visibility settings to confirm all references are turned on.
3. Can I edit a nested reference directly?
Yes, with live nesting enabled, you can right-click on a reference element to activate it for editing without having to switch between files, facilitating immediate modifications.
