MicroStation
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
MicroStation is a suite of CAD software products for 2- and 3-dimensional design and drafting, developed and sold by Bentley Systems. The latest versions of the software are released solely for Microsoft Windows operating systems, but historically MicroStation was available for Macintosh platforms and a number of Unix-like operating systems.
Contents |
[edit] Description
MicroStation is the platform architectural and engineering software package developed by Bentley Systems, Incorporated. Among a number of things, it generates 2D/3D vector graphic objects and elements.
[edit] File Format Support
Its native format is the DGN (DesiGN file) format, though it can also read and write a variety of standard CAD formats including DWG and DXF as gs; however, it has evolved through its various versions to include advanced modeling and rendering features, including boolean solids, raytracing, and keyframe animation. It can provide specialized environments for architecture, civil engineering, mapping, or plant design, among others.
In 2000, Bentley made revisions to the DGN file format in V8 to add additional features like Digital Rights and Design History - a revision control ability that allows to reinstate previous revisions either globally or by selection, and to better support import/export of AutoDesk's DWG Format.[1]
[edit] Extensions
Extensions can be used with MicroStation to add to its functionality. Example extensions include the following:
- Provide accurate materials lists for every item included in the design
- Sequenced schedule for construction
- Check for interferences between objects
- Publish all drawings automatically on a public website
- Provide a client/owner a detailed model of their entire plant including its virtual operation for training and testing.
Extensions can be created using:
- The MicroStation Development Language (MDL) which is a 'C' like programming language.
- User Command Macros (UCMs). Once very popular, support for these is no longer guaranteed in V8.
- Visual Basic for Applications (VBA).
[edit] History
MicroStation was originally developed by Bentley Systems in the 1980s.
The latest version is MicroStation V8 XM [1], which builds upon the changes made by V8.
[edit] See Also
[edit] References
- ^ Microstation V8 2004 Review. Retrieved on 2006-09-29.
[edit] External links
- MicroStation home page at Bentley
- AskInga by Bentley
- Introduction to MicroStation V8 Models By Axiom
- MicroStation Tip Resource at MicroStationTips.com
