Understanding the Fence Tool in MicroStation
The Fence Tool in MicroStation allows users to define a specific area on their design that can be manipulated more easily. This tool is advantageous for selecting, editing, or deleting elements within a defined boundary.
Steps to Delete Everything Outside a Fence in MicroStation
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Open Your Design File: Begin by launching MicroStation and loading the design file you wish to work on. Make sure all relevant layers are visible.
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Place the Fence:
- Activate the Fence Tool from the Main toolbox. Hold the data point on the Place Fence icon and select the option to open the Fence Toolbox.
- Choose the appropriate fence type (e.g., rectangular, polygon, etc.) and define the area you wish to keep by clicking around the perimeter of that area.
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Select the Area Outside the Fence:
- With the fence now in place, you need to select all elements that fall outside this boundary.
- Navigate to the selection tool, and you can typically use the "Select by Fence" option. Ensure that the setting for "Invert Selection" is enabled, which allows you to highlight the items outside the fence rather than within it.
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Delete the Selected Elements:
- Once you have successfully selected everything outside of the defined fence area, press the Delete key on your keyboard or right-click and select Delete from the context menu. All elements that are outside of your designated fence will be removed.
- Verify Your Work:
- After the deletion, carefully review your design to ensure that only the desired elements remain. You can do this by zooming in and out and checking different views to confirm accuracy.
Additional Editing Functions Related to the Fence Tool
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Modifying Fence Contents: If you need to adjust the contents within your fence instead of deleting them, select an editing tool, and ensure the "Use Fence" option is activated in the Tool Settings. You can then manipulate the elements as needed.
- Saving Fences for Future Use: If you find yourself frequently using the same fence configuration, it’s possible to save the fence for future access. Open the Named Boundaries dialog from the Fence Tools menu and create a new saved fence based on your current selection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What types of fences can be created in MicroStation?
Different types of fences can be created, including rectangular, polygonal, complex shapes, and even free-form lines. Each serves various design needs depending on the project requirements. -
Is it possible to undo a deletion after removing elements outside a fence?
Yes, if you accidentally delete elements, you can use the Undo command (typically Ctrl+Z) to revert the last action and restore any removed items. - Can the Fence Tool be used in conjunction with other editing tools?
Absolutely. The Fence Tool is designed to integrate seamlessly with MicroStation’s other editing features, allowing for efficient workflows when combined with tools for moving, copying, or modifying elements.
