Microstation

How to Insert Image in Microstation?

by Wei Zhang
4 min read

Understanding Raster Files and Their Use in MicroStation

MicroStation is an advanced CAD software that allows users to work with raster files efficiently. Raster files are images composed of a grid of pixels, which may represent scanned drawings, photographs, and other graphics. The Raster Manager module is a critical feature that enables users to attach and manipulate these raster files without damaging the original data. This guide outlines various methods to insert images into MicroStation.

Inserting a PDF into MicroStation

  1. Open Raster Manager: Launch MicroStation and navigate to the Raster Manager by selecting File > Raster Manager from the menu options.

  2. Attach the PDF: Click the option to attach a new raster file, choose the PDF document you wish to import, and confirm to close the Raster Manager once the file is attached.

  3. Select the PDF in the View: Click on the PDF file that is now visible in your project view.

  4. Copy the PDF: Use the menu and select Edit > Copy to copy the PDF content to the clipboard.

  5. Paste the PDF as a Picture: Navigate to Edit > Paste Special. In the list that appears, choose the option labeled "Picture of" to insert the PDF as an image.

Importing JPEG Images

  1. Access Raster Manager: Begin by clicking File > Raster Manager in the MicroStation interface.

  2. Attach JPG File: In the Raster Manager window, select File > Attach > Raster. Browse your computer to select the JPEG file you wish to import.

  3. Configure Attachment Options: After selecting the file, the Raster Attachment Options window will appear. Adjust any settings here, if necessary, and then confirm the attachment.

Capturing Google Earth Images

  1. Prepare Google Earth View: Open Google Earth and navigate to the area you wish to capture. Set your view as required before proceeding.

  2. Activate Capture Tool in MicroStation: In a MicroStation 3D model, go to Tools > Geographic and select the option titled Capture Google Earth Image.

  3. Capture the Image: Click on the MicroStation view window to capture the current Google Earth view. The image will be inserted directly as a raster file.

Warpping an Image in MicroStation

  1. Select the Raster Warp Tool: Navigate to Drawing > Attach > Raster and select the More split button to find the Raster Warp tool.

  2. Choose Raster File to Warp: Identify the raster file you want to warp either by clicking directly in the view or from the Raster Manager dialog.

  3. Define Transformation Points: Click to set a point on the raster image where you want the transformation to occur.

  4. Adjust as Necessary: Continue by entering additional points as needed to achieve the desired shape and alignment for the image.

Accessing Raster Manager

To find the Raster Manager, select File > Raster Manager or click on the Raster Manager icon located in MicroStation’s Primary Tool Bar. This utility serves as the primary interface for managing all raster attachments throughout your design processes.

Exporting a PDF to DGN

  1. Upload PDF File: Click the “Choose File” button to find and select a PDF from your system. Ensure the file size is within acceptable limits, typically no larger than 100 MB.

  2. Initiate Conversion: Click on the “Convert” button to begin the process of transforming your PDF into a DGN format suitable for use in MicroStation.

  3. Download the Converted DGN: Once the conversion is complete, download and save the new DGN file to your computer.

FAQ

  1. What types of raster files can be attached in MicroStation?
    MicroStation supports a variety of raster formats including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, PDF, and more, allowing flexibility in the types of images that can be integrated into your design projects.

  2. Can raster images be edited directly in MicroStation?
    Yes, raster images can be manipulated through features in the Raster Manager, including non-destructive editing, warping, and resizing while preserving the original image file.

  3. Is there a file size limitation for attaching images in MicroStation?
    Yes, when attaching files such as PDFs, MicroStation typically has a size limit. For example, PDF attachments are often restricted to a maximum file size of 100 MB to maintain performance.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.

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