2 Plateia 2011 ENG Layout

LAYOUT

Users’ Manual PLATEIA 2011

FERROVIA 2011 AQUATERRA 2011

Innovative IT and Environmental Technologies, d.o.o.

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Contents

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 5

1.1. About LAYOUT Module ........................................................................................................... 5

1.2. Coordinate System .................................................................................................................. 6

1.3. Menu Commands with Short Descriptions .............................................................................. 7

1.4. Layers ...................................................................................................................................... 8

1.5. Selecting Points in the Layout Plan .......................................................................................... 9

1.6. Data Transfer from Electronic Surveying Instruments .............................................................. 9

1.7. Using Scanned Plans in the LAYOUT Module ........................................................................... 9

1.8. Linking LAYOUT Module Data to AutoCAD MAP ................................................................... 10

2. Command descriptions of the Layout module ............................................................................ 12

2.1. 11A - Project ......................................................................................................................... 12

2.2. 11B - Scale ............................................................................................................................ 12

2.3. 11C - Data Transformations .................................................................................................. 16

2.4. 11D - Survey Calculations ...................................................................................................... 21

2.5. 11E - Point-Types .................................................................................................................. 28

2.6. 11F - Points ........................................................................................................................... 36

2.7. 11G - Edit Points ................................................................................................................... 50

2.8. 11H - Connection-Types ........................................................................................................ 59

2.9. 11I - Connections .................................................................................................................. 63

2.10. 11J - Edit Connections ........................................................................................................ 67

2.11. 11K - Break-lines and 3D ..................................................................................................... 71

2.12. 11M - Symbol Libraries ....................................................................................................... 81

2.13. 11N - Cut/Fill Hatches .......................................................................................................... 84

2.14. 11O - Draw ......................................................................................................................... 88

2.15. 11P - Output ....................................................................................................................... 95

2.16. 11Q - List of Elements ....................................................................................................... 106

2.17. 11R - Output, Parcels ........................................................................................................ 110

2.18. 11S - Calculate volumes with prism method ..................................................................... 118

2.19. 11T - Interpolations ........................................................................................................... 125

2.20. 11U - Tools ........................................................................................................................ 134

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1. Introduction

1.1. About LAYOUT Module

LAYOUT is the CGS plus module for producing layout plans, in scales ranging from 1:100 to 1:10,000. These plans can be used as a basis for designing roads, watercourses and other civil engineering objects with other modules.

The basis for the creation of layout plans are survey points, acquired from surveying instruments. Besides points, Layout module can also read point connections, entered into the surveying instrument.

Survey plans, created with CGS plus programs, can be combined with scanned plans (calibrated with the coordinate system) as well as with vectorized and digitized plans. In addition, Layout module can also process survey plans, created in other programs.

Survey plans contain various graphical elements. The following is a short list of the most important ones:

• Survey points,

• Survey point connections,

• Topographical (and other) symbols,

• Digital terrain models (DTM),

• Parcels,

• Signs.

Figure: Example of a well thought-out survey plan.

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Individual graphical elements can be connected with so called "reactors" (dynamic links). Reactors are responsible for updating a specific graphical element as soon as another element that is linked to the first one is modified. For example, if you move a survey point, the appropriate connection moves automatically.

CGS plus survey plans are "intelligent", meaning that besides containing only geometrical data they also contain other data, like attributes. An intelligent drawing acts as a database from which any kind of data of interest can be extracted. This data can then be displayed graphically or numerically in output text files.

1.2. Coordinate System

CGS plus programs uses the Gauss-Krüger coordinate system where the geodetic X coordinate points toward the north and the geodetic Y coordinate towards the east. Namely, with the AutoCAD’s coordinate system the X coordinate points toward the east and the Y coordinate toward the north. This is why we decided to use only coordinates North and East in CGS plus programs, not X and Y. X and Y coordinates in this manual refer to AutoCAD coordinates.

Figure: AutoCAD coordinate system vs. geodetic coordinate system.

Legend:

• AutoCAD’s X coordinate = geodetic Y coordinate = East

• AutoCAD’s Y coordinate = geodetic X coordinate = North

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1.3. Menu Commands with Short Descriptions

• A - SET PROJECT Manage projects, project files and define system variables.

• B - SCALE Set the output scale of the plan and change the scale of the plan.

• C - Data Transformations Transform files into the XYZ format and convert data from surveying instruments.

• D - Survey Calculations Calculate detail points and points in sections.

• E - Point-Types Define your own point types with an arbitrary geometry and user-defined attributes.

• F - Points Enter survey points.

• G - Edit Points Edit /lookup points, edit point attributes: move, rotate, show/hide.

• H - Connection-Types Define your own point connection types with an arbitrary geometry and user-defined attributes.

• I - Connections Enter point connections and edit or search for basic connection characteristics.

• J - Edit Connections Edit/lookup connections, edit connection attributes: move, rotate, show/hide

• K - Break-lines and 3D Enter break lines and lift/drop the drawing.

• M - Symbol Libraries Insert point symbols from two different libraries into the drawing.

• N - Cut/Fill Hatches Fill cuts and fills with hatches / remove hatches from cuts/fills.

• O - Draw Draw layout elements, crosses and objects.

• P - Output Extract plan data (stakeout, parcels) into text files.

• Q - List of elements Define, extract point or longitudinal elements.

• R - Parcels Define and edit parcels

• S - Calculate volumes with prism method Calculate volumes with prism method

• T - Interpolations Interpolate heights between two or three points.

• U - Tools Helpful tools for the creation of survey plans.

• Y - Layout Help Layout help.

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1.4. Layers

Below is a list of layers, the LAYOUT Module uses for the output of survey plan elements. All layers are switched on by the appropriate functions in real-time. Layers used by the LAYOUT module all have a "10_" prefix, so they cannot be confused with layers of other program modules. However, you can also define your own layers with the appropriate AutoCAD commands.

Layers used by the LAYOUT module are as follows:

Layer name Layer description

10_TRAV_POINTS traverse points

10_DETA_POINTS detail points

10_TP_LABELS traverse point labels/numbers

10_DP_LABELS detail point labels/numbers

10_TP_ELEV traverse point elevations

10_DP_ELEV detail point elevations

10_CONNECTIONS point connections

10_CROSSES decimal grid

10_CONTOURS contours

10_TIN_MESH triangular DTM mesh

10_GRID_MESH GRID DTM mesh

10_TGRID_MESH TGRID DTM mesh

10_INTERPOLATIONS interpolation elements

10_CONSTR_LINES construction lines

10_SYMBOLS_TOP symbols for topographical blocks

10_SYMBOLS_CAD symbols for cadastral blocks

10_PARCELS parcels

10_3D_BREAK_LINES 3D break lines (drawn as 3D PLINE elements)

10_CUT, 10_FILL cut/fill boundaries, hatches and colors.

10_3D_BREAK_LINES_ERRORS errors generating break lines (command 11K3).

10_ORTHO_POINTS points generated by 11F6 command.

10_ORTHO_LINES lines generated by 11F6 command.

10_ORTHO_TEXT text generated by 11F6 command.

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1.5. Selecting Points in the Layout Plan

The LAYOUT module draws points as blocks with attributes (AutoCAD’s Block Reference elements). As you are not limited to use only standard traverse and detail points (and their respective geometry), you have to consider the following when defining new point types:

When asking for a point, the LAYOUT module starts AutoCAD’s Getpoint command. This means that the program expects the input of a point – not the selection of an element (an element is usually selected with the Select Object command). As standard traverse and detail points are drawn with small circles, every time the LAYOUT module asks for a point, it automatically switches the Center option on. There is no problem as long as the point contains a circle. Yet, as soon as you are trying to select a point, not containing a circle, this procedure fails. Therefore, if you need to select a point with a different geometry, you first have to switch on the appropriate osnap function (e.g. Insert, Intersection, etc.).

This way you can easily select standard CGS points as well as all other points in the drawing, not defined as a CGS point.

Looking from day-to-day working routine, it means that a point can be selected just by moving the mouse cursor in the point’s proximity. Every time the cursor is close to a detail point, a yellow circle appears on the screen, indicating the input point of the detail point.

1.6. Data Transfer from Electronic Surveying Instruments

The LAYOUT module supports the import from a large number of different surveying instruments. The transfer of the data itself is usually divided into two steps:

1. All data, obtained with the surveying instrument, is transferred to the computer with the proprietary communication program of the individual device. This communication program can usually be obtained from the instrument’s manufacturer. It saves all transferred data in the form of a file, containing basic point information. The structure and contents of this file are explained in the instrument’s manual.

2. The file with the basic point information is then converted into a format that can be read by the LAYOUT module. Basic points, saved in the format ‘distances and angles’, are converted to detail points (a DET file) and basic points, saved in the format ‘x, y and elevation’, into calculated points (a XYZ file). The conversion or transformation of the basic instrument data can be accomplished with the Convert instrument data (11C2) command.

Both – the data transfer and the conversion of basic points into the CGS format method heavily depend on the type of the instrument. The supported instrument types are listed under the description of command 11C2.

1.7. Using Scanned Plans in the LAYOUT Module

LAYOUT module also supports the usage of scanograms (scanned plans) in a survey plan. Before using a scanogram, it has to be geo-positioned and calibrated. An accurate calibration can suppress most errors due to the contraction/expansion of the paper. Use RX VECTOR to geo-position and calibrate a scanogram.

Below are three examples of using a scanogram in conjunction with the LAYOUT module.

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2D digitalization of scanograms

When converting an existing scanogram into a 2D vector drawing, we recommend you to use the commands of the LAYOUT module (11F2, 11I2, etc.) instead of the AutoCAD (Line, Point, and Text) commands. You can digitize a point in the plan with the Single Point Coordinate Input (11F2) command instead of AutoCAD’s Point and Text commands. And use the CONNECT POINTS (11I2) command instead of the AutoCAD’s Line and Text commands to draw connections between points. Point/line symbols and cut/fill hatches can be drawn with the LAYOUT commands as well. Only this way the drawing will be "intelligent" and thus allowing a flexible extraction of plan data and a much easier plan editing in the future.

3D digitalization of scanograms

A 3D digitalization is identical to a 2D digitalization except for the additional processing needed to add another dimension to the drawing. All points and connections defined under LAYOUT module can easily be converted from 2D to 3D with the Transform points and connections from 2D to 3D and reversed (11K4 and 11K5) command. In addition, 3D break lines can be digitized with the Digitize Break-lines (11K1) command. 3D drawings of high quality can then be used, for example, to create a digital terrain model.

Hybrid plans

Often the additional effort put into the digitalization or vectorization of a scanogram can be reduced or even completely avoided. Under CGS plus programs a scanogram can be supplemented with survey points and other elements of a survey plan just like any other vector drawing. Besides, modern plotters can easily plot scanograms together with vector elements on a single sheet of paper in a so-called raster/vector hybrid plan format. This way you can often save a lot time and (usually) ensure the same drawing quality.

1.8. Linking LAYOUT Module Data to AutoCAD MAP

The LAYOUT module runs under AutoCAD or AutoCAD MAP that serve as a foundation for the retrieval and preparation of the GIS (Geographic Information System) data. The LAYOUT module handles all survey points, connections and point/connection attribute data in a manner that conforms to AutoCAD MAP standards. This way you can read CGS objects and data with AutoCAD MAP. Moreover, you can also carry out various queries.

Example of query: By using the AutoCAD MAP querying functions in a drawing created with the LAYOUT module, you want to find all points in the layout plan that lie on the roadside (the "Cross Section Symbol" attribute has to feature the REDGE value). Select the Query, Define Query command and – in the Define Query dialog box - click Data.

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In the Data Condition dialog box select parameters according to the following figure:

The results of the query are extracted points along the roadside.

Similarly, survey points and connections saved in DWG drawings can also be used with AutoCAD WORLD, allowing you to perform even the most complicated analyses of the survey and attribute data.

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2. Command descriptions of the Layout module

2.1. 11A - Project

Following commands are available in the Project command group:

• Project

• Directories

• Layout-Settings

• Layout-Icons

• Conversions

The descriptions of the above commands can be found in the introductory part of this manual.

2.2. 11B - Scale

Command name: SCALE

Command code: 11B

Icon:

Task: Setting and modifying of the scale for the output of the survey plan

Input data: From drawing

Output data: None

Layers: This command does not use any.

See also commands: 11F1, 11I1

The SCALE command sets the current scale for layout elements. This setting affects the following layout elements:

• Survey points,

• Line symbols (connections),

• Cut and fill hatches,

• Decimal grid,

• Point symbols and

• Text and labels.

With this command, the scale can subsequently be modified entirely or only for a specific plan area. The default setting is 1:1000. After selecting the SCALE command, the following dialog box appears:

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The SCALE dialog box explanation:

• Scale ... shows the currently selected scale.

• Update drawing ... activate this check box to redraw the drawing in the new scale.

• Settings ... click this button to select the desired plan elements to be adjusted to the new scale settings.

Usually the scale is set when creating a new survey plan (before drawing points, connections, etc.). To change the scale later, just activate the Update drawing check box and click Settings. The following dialog box appears:

The Settings dialog box explanation:

Whole drawing Activate to adjust the whole plan to the new scale settings.

Select area Click this button to modify the scale of a specific rectangular area only.

First Point, X, Y Shows coordinates of the first diametrical point of the selected area.

Second Point, X, Y Shows coordinates of the second diametrical point of the selected area.

Points activate to fit survey points to the new scale settings.

Connections activate to fit connections to the new scale settings.

Cut/fill hatches activate to fit cut/fill hatches to the new scale settings.

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Decimal grid activate to fit the decimal grid to the new scale settings.

Point symbols activate to fit point symbols to the new scale settings.

Point symbols, Layers click this button to select the layers containing point symbols to be fitted to the new scale ratio.

Text elements activate to fit the text to the new scale settings.

Text elements, Layers click this button to select the layers containing text to be fitted to the new scale ratio.

Figure: A survey plan with different scale settings.

The scale settings for the output on a plotter can be modified from within the Print / Plot Configuration dialog box invoked by the AutoCAD PLOT command.

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When plotting a survey plan, the settings of the PLOT command have to match the current scale settings.

Valid settings are as follows:

Scale Plotted Millimeters=Drawing Units 1:1000 1=1 1:500 2=1 1:2000 1=2 etc. for other scale settings.

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2.3. 11C - Data Transformations

Command name: CONVERT INSTRUMENT DATA

Command code: 11C2

Icon:

Task: Converting surveying instrument data files into a DET or XYZ format

Input data: File containing point data

Output data: Transformed DET or XYZ file containing point data

Layers: This command does not use any

See also commands: 11C1, 11F1

Modern surveying instruments have the ability to save the points surveyed and later transfer them to a computer. Once saved in a file, the points can be converted into a DET (polar detail point data) or XYZ (calculated coordinates of the surveyed points) format with the Convert instrument data (11C2) command. To retrieve calculated coordinates from the DET file, use the Calculate Detail Points <- TRA, DET -> XYZ (11D1) command. The XYZ file can then be inserted into the survey plan with the Input points (11F1) command.

The Convert instrument data (11C2) command supports the following surveying instruments (i.e. data formats):

LEICA

• Format 08 Cartesian

• Format 08 Polar


• Format 16 Polar

WILD


• Format 08 Polar


• Format 16 Polar

SOKKIA

• Format SDR 2x Cartesian

• Format SDR 2x Polar

• Format SDR 33 Cartesian

• Format SDR 33 Polar

HUSKEY

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• Hunter 2

• Hunter 16

The above list is constantly being updated. If you cannot find your instrument in the list please contact your authorized reseller of PLATEIA 5.0 for further information.

Following is an example of a file transferred from a surveying instrument to the computer: 41....+01.01.99 42....+SUNNYDAY 41....+........ 42....+12345678 43....+........ 44....+........ 45....+........ 46....+........ 47....+........ 48....+........ 49....+........ 41....+........ 42....+00001123 11....+11111111 21....+12312345 22....+08802200 31....+00029485 75....+........ 11....+22222222 21....+22312345 22....+09017380 31....+00043762 75....+........ 11....+33333333 21....+32312345 22....+08802200 31....+00029485 75....+........ 11....+44444444 21....+42312345 22....+09017380 31....+00043762 75....+........ 11....+55555555 21....+42312345 22....+09017380 31....+00043762 75....+........ 11....+66666666 21....+42312345 22....+09017380 31....+00043762 75....+........ 11....+10000301 21....+14441490 22....+08747090 31....+00351059 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000001 78....+12344321 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00001600 11....+10000302 21....+14341500 22....+08755040 31....+00334770 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000000 78....+87655678 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000303 21....-14437050 22....-08809420 31....-00309670 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000001 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000304 21....-14426250 22....-08809250 31....-00398054 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000000 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000305 21....+14436450 22....+08828130 31....+00002703 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000001 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000306 21....+14442310 22....+08849150 31....+00248456 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000000 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000307 21....+14441490 22....+08858450 32....+00241489 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000001 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000308 21....+14440240 22....+08919030 32....+01764887 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000000 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000309 21....+14440190 22....+08939040 32....+00222818 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000001 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000 11....+00000310 21....+14436290 22....+09004570 32....+00217102 76....+OSEMZNAK 77....+00000000 78....+00001234 79....+POLJUBNO 87....+00002000

This is the corresponding DET file after the conversion: 12345678 11111111 123.12345 22222222 223.12345 33333333 323.12345 44444444 423.12345 55555555 423.12345 66666666 423.12345 1.123 10000301 144.41490 87.47090 351.059 1.600 0 0 10000302 143.41500 87.55040 334.770 2.000 0 0 303 -144.37050 -88.09420 -309.670 2.000 0 0 304 -144.26250 -88.09250 -398.054 2.000 0 0 305 144.36450 88.28130 2.703 2.000 0 0 306 144.42310 88.49150 248.456 2.000 0 0 307 144.41490 88.58450 241.489 2.000 0 0 308 144.40240 89.19030 1764.887 2.000 0 0 309 144.40190 89.39040 222.818 2.000 0 0 310 144.36290 90.04570 217.102 2.000 0 0

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Program operation

After invoking the Convert instrument data command (11C2), file conversion wizard opens. Follow the procedure below to do a file conversion.

1. Invoke the Convert instrument data command (11C2). Introductory dialog box opens:

2. Click Continue > and then select a manufacturer and type of the surveying instrument.

3. Select instrument manufacturer from the left list and instrument type from the right list and click Continue > to open a dialog box where you select a file to be converted.

By clicking Path to file >> select a file to be converted and then click Continue >>.

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4. In the next dialog box define data format. In addition to data format definition, you can also set an individual instrument by clicking Settings.

Dialog box with settings differs according to the selected instrument. Picture below shows settings for Leica polar format. In the dialog box set format that corresponds to your input file.

5. You can save settings for later use by clicking Save settings as. Or download previously saved settings by clicking Load settings.

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6. Finally, select an output file name and path. Be careful when denoting a file suffix which should be either XYZ or DAT.

By clicking Finish, conversion takes place and program saves output file.

Transformation functions

The instrument manufacturer, the instrument type and the format of the output file determine a transformation function. Transformation functions are part of the 11C2 command and are used to transform input files to the output ones.

If you intend to change the transformation function parameters, it is of utmost importance for you to be familiar with the file format of your surveying instrument. Changing the parameters influences the way this commnad interprets the data saved in the file. You can see some examples of such file format in the .pdf file titled Examples of instrument data. You can find it in the same directory where your CGS plus program is installed. Marked locations are those that are read by the transformation function.

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2.4. 11D - Survey Calculations

Two commands are available in the Survey Calculations command group:

• Calculate Detail Points (11D1) - calculates detail points based on given traverse and surveyed detail points,

• Calculate Profile Points (11D2) – represents a special calculation method for points that are surveyed in sections.

Consequently, both commands in the Survey Calculations command group return coordinates of the calculated points. Survey calculations may also be performed with other geodetic software or with the surveying instrument itself and then converted with the Convert columns (11C1) command. In either case, a file containing XYZ points for inserting into a layout plan with the Input Points (11E3) command has to be obtained.

Command name: CALCULATE DETAIL POINTS <- TRA, DET -> XYZ

Command code: 11D1

Icon: None

Task: Calculating of detail points based on given traverse points and surveyed detail points

Input data: TRA and DET files

Output data: Calculated survey points in a XYZ file

Layers: Calculated survey points in a XYZ file

See also commands: 11F1

The Calculate Detail Points (11D1) command calculates the coordinates of detail points based on the corresponding input files containing detail and traverse points. Data for the program must be prepared in two separate file types:

• as traverse points (.TRA) file and

• as detail points (.DET) file.

The result is saved into an XYZ file that can be read by means of the Input Points (11F1) or QuickSurf commands.

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For further information on the structures of the TRA and DET files see Appendix A.

Operation of the function for the detail point calculation

The orientation angle is calculated for each orientation point respectively and is followed by the arithmetic mean calculation of orientation angles.

The output file in the ORI format consists of the following data:

• Standpoint,

• Orientation point, direction to the point, weight, orientation angle, orientation angle correction, and

• Middle orientation angle.

Example of the ORI file:

Standpoint: 101 Orientation: (target point, direction, weight, ori.angle, deviation) 102 271.06500 1.00 215.45216 -0.00011 103 295.11280 1.00 215.45154 0.00052 105 89.46560 1.00 215.45196 0.00009 110 12.42400 1.00 215.45256 -0.00050 Mid- orientation angle: 215.452058

After clicking the INFO button in the dialog box, a drawing is displayed explaining the selected calculation method.

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3RAY-TACHYMETRY CALCULATION METHOD:

d K L z kot= ⋅ ⋅ sin ( _ )2

H K L z kot' cos ( _ )= ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ 12

2

H H i H hB A= + + −'

Where:

• L . K INTERVAL in the DET file,

• z_ang V_ANG in the DET file,

• I instrument height in the DET file,

• H CR in the DET file.

AUTOREDUCTIONAL TACHYMETRY CALCULATION METHOD:

d K Ld d= ⋅

H K Lv v' = ⋅

H H i H rB A= + + −'

Where:

• D inserted directly to the DET file,

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• R CR in the DET file,

• H' HEI_DIF in the DET file.

ELECTRONIC INSTRUMENT CALCULATION METHOD:

d d z kot= ⋅' sin( _ )

H dz kot

'tan( _ )

=

H H i H hB A= + + −'

Where:

• d' oblique length in the DET file,

• z_ang V_ANG in the DET file,


• H CR in the DET file.

Command name: CALCULATE PROFILE POINTS <- PRO -> XYZ

Command code: 11D2

Icon: None

Task: Calculating of detail points based on given points and progressive point

readings from the cross sections

Input data: PRO file

Output data: Calculated survey points in a XYZ file

Layers: Calculated survey points in a XYZ file

See also commands: 11F1, 21K6

When surveying points for paths and small roads, a surveying method for obtaining points in profiles is frequently used.

This command calculates profile point coordinates based on the PRO input file. The Calculate Profile Points (11D2) command can be used when coordinates of traverse points on the axis are known while the detail point measurements are limited to distances and elevations. Distances and elevations of detail points in profiles can be provided in an absolute or a relative format.

Figure: Points surveyed in profiles.

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The data in the PRO file must be prepared as follows:

For relative distances and elevations:

• 1st row: * remark

• 2nd row: LAB_POINT_AXIS X Y ELEV

• 3rd (and subsequent) row(s): LAB_POINT REL_DIS REL_ELEV

Subsequent axis points together with the appropriate detail points are as follows:

For absolute distances and elevations:

• 1st row: * remark

• 2nd row: LAB_POINT_AXIS X Y ELEV

• 3rd (and subsequent) row(s): LAB_POINT ABS_DIS ABS_ELEV

Subsequent axis points together with the appropriate detail points are as follows:

Explanation:

LAB_POINT_AXIS label of the axis point (e.g., 1 or P1); axis points are drawn as traverse points.

X x coordinate of the axis point,

Y y coordinate of the axis point.

ELEV elevation or height of the axis point.

LAB_POINT label of the detail point in the profile.

REL_DIS relative distance from the axis point or from the last surveyed point: ‘-’ means leftwards and ‘+’ rightwards from the axis point or from the last surveyed point.

REL_ELEV relative elevation or height from the axis point or the last surveyed point; ‘-’ means leftwards and ‘+’ rightwards from the axis point or from the last surveyed point.

ABS_DIS absolute distance from the axis point; ‘-’ means leftwards and ‘+’ rightwards from the axis point.

ABS_ELEV absolute elevation or height of the detail point.

Example of the PRO file type with relative distances and elevations:

* remark P1 0.00 100.00 469.63 11 -1.2 -0.12 12 1.3 0.1 13 2.4 0.2 * P2 20.3 123.234 467.90 21 -1.2 -0.12 22 1.3 0.1 23 2.4 0.2 * P3 66.16 135.62 466.45 31 -0.5 +1.23 32 -1.2 -0.12 33 1.3 0.1 34 2.4 0.2

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Example of the same file with absolute distances and elevations:

* remark P1 0.00 100.00 469.63 11 -1.2 -0.12 12 1.3 0.1 13 3.7 0.3 * P2 20.3 123.234 467.90 21 -1.2 -0.12 22 1.3 0.1 23 3.7 0.3 * P3 66.16 135.62 466.45 31 -0.5 +1.23 32 -1.7 1.11 33 1.3 0.1 34 3.7 0.3

Traverse points define the axis and form a tangential polygon. The calculation of detail points conforms to the following rules:

• For the first and last section, detail points are calculated perpendicularly to the tangential polygon,

• For all sections in between, detail points are calculated using the mean angle between the two tangents.

Regarding the order of the detail points consider the following:

First you have to enter the points on the left side (from the nearest to the farthest) and then the points on the right side (again from the nearest to the farthest) of the axis. The relative distances and heights must also be entered according to this order. The first detail point on the left side is determined by its distance and height difference from the point on the axis while all other points on the left side are determined by their distances and height differences from the previous detail point. Shifting from the left to the right side of the axis changes the sign of the distances from ‘-’ to ‘+’. Again, the first right detail point is determined by its distance and height difference from the point on the axis bwhile all other points on the right side are determined by their distances and height differences from the previous detail point.

The Calculate Profile Points <- PRO -> XYZ (11D2) command has been developed to provide engineers with an effective means of recording and calculating survey points for smaller roadways and paths. The calculated points can later be inserted into a layout plan with the Input Points (11F1) command.

Afterwards, you can also calculate the longitudinal and cross sections for the axis with the Save sections from layout points (21K6) command.

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2.5. 11E - Point-Types

Besides using standard point types, the LAYOUT module allows you to define your own ones. Standard CGS point types in are:

• PK_TP traverse point, and

• PK_DP detail point.

A user-defined point type can feature an arbitrary geometry (appearance) and an unlimited number of point attributes. Nevertheless, every CGS point must have at least the following two attributes:

• LABEL point label, and

• ELEVATION point elevation.

Traverse and detail points also have the following two attributes:

• CROSS_SECT the no. of the cross section the point lies in, and

• CROSS_SECT_SYM the symbol to be drawn in the cross section.

Both attributes – CROSS_SECT and CROSS_SECT_SYM – have a special meaning for points recorded in profiles that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

• CROSS_SECT (i.e. the no. of the cross section) is an important value. It is used by the Save sections from layout points (2J4) command of the AXES module for the creation of cross and longitudinal sections from layout points.

• CROSS_SECT_SYM determines the meaning of the recorded point in the cross section (e.g. roadside, etc.). It is used by the Calculate new vertical alignment 3M2) command of the LONGITUDINAL SECTIONS program module for roadway reconstruction needs.

User-defined point types can have an arbitrary number of attributes, storing values such as shaft lid elevation, shaft depth, width, etc. These point types can be defined with the following two commands:

• Define new Point-Type (11E3), and

• Define new Point-Type from an existing point (11E4).

User-defined point types can be used to solve a large number of various spatial and engineering tasks such as creating a cadaster of water and gas conduits, sewers, telephone lines etc. With a well thought-out structure of your user-defined points you can achieve a wide-spread applicability of your data.

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Command name: SET CURRENT POINT-TYPE

Command code: 11E1

Icon:

Task: Setting of a currently active point type

Input data: To be specified in a dialog box

Output data: Active point type

Layers: Defined by the points

See also commands: 11E, 11F, 11T

In the LAYOUT module, all commands for working with points operate using the currently active point type. Therefore, if you want to input a new point (let's say by using the 11F2 command), this point will be of current type. Currently active point type is considered by all the commands used for inputing points to the drawing (11F, 11T command group, ...).

Using the 11E1 command, you set a currently active point type. After invoking of the command, the following dialog box appears:

The Active point type dialog box explanation:

Currently active point type shows a currently active point type. By clicking Select, a dialog box opens where a new point type can be selected.

Save method you can choose between 2D and 3 D input method. When using the 3D method, a point is entered at the Z coordinate inputd in the height attribute.

Label point label. You can select an automatic counter/counting that add 1 to the point label with every new inputing;

Elevation label, Elevation label output you can select an output of elevation label which can be:

• full/complete, all places before decimal point get written, • V. or VV. Where one or two places before decimal point get written;

Elevation label, Number of decimal places you can choose a number of decimal places after the decimal point;

Example of elevation label output shows an example of elevation label output.

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Command name: VIEW EXISTING POINT-TYPES

Command code: 11E2

Icon: None

Task: Displaying a list of the standard and user-defined point types, together with their

attributes

Input data: PP_DEFUN.BLK file

Output data: PP_DEFUN.BLK file

Layers: This command does not use any

See also commands: 11E3, 11E4

Command is used for viewing existing point-types and their attributes. The attributes of a specific point type can be viewed by clicking the desired point-type name in the left list box. After invokink the command, the following dialog box appears:

The View existing Point-Types dialog box explanation:

Points a list of standard and user-defined point types

Attributes a list of point attributes for the selected point type.

Preview graphical representation of selected point and their attributes.

Command name: DEFINE NEW POINT TYPE

Command code: 11E3

Icon:

Task: point name, appearance and attribute definition

Input data: via dialog box

Output data: point, written in a form of a DWG block

Layers: user defined

See also commands: 11E4, 11E2, 11F

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In addition to the traverse and detailed points (10_TP and 10_DP respectively) that are built in the Layout module as standard, you can define a new point type having any appearance (geometry) or attribute by using the Define new point type (11E3) command.

Point can have any appearance. There are very well known symbols for a geodetic point or sewer shaft. Point geometry can be drawn using usual AutoCAD commands such as Line, Arc or similar ones.

Point attributes such as Label and Elevation are obligatory while others can be added. Attributes can be visible or invisible.

After invoking the Define new point type (11E3) command, the following dialog box opens:

The Define new point type dialog box explanation:

Point name insert point name which is at the same time a DWG filename where block or point definition is to be saved. Point is written to the "...\CGSAPPS4\POINTS" area;

Select objects, Select graphics select graphic elements defining point appearance or symbol;

Insertion point define insertion point for a user defined point.

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After clicking the Attributes tab, a dialog box for attribute definition opens.

By clicking Add, you can add any attribute. The Attribute properties dialog box for attribute definition opens.

The Attribute properties dialog box explanation:

Name attribute name

Layer layer where attribute will be written,

Position, Select point interactive selection of X and Y coordinates in drawing,

X EAST coordinate defining attribute position at the point,

Y NORTH coordinate defining attribute position at the point

Text height attribute text height in AutoCAD units; by clicking Text height you can define it interactively,

Rotation attribute text rotation in degrees; by clicking Rotation, you can define rotation interactively,

Invisible attribute visibility

By clicking Edit from the Define new point type dialog box, a dialog box for attribute editing opens. This dialog box is identical to the one for attribute adding with the exception that it relates to an existing attribute.

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By clicking Erase, you can erase a selected attribute.

By selecting the Already defined tab, you can browse the existing points. See dialog box below.

When you have defined all the upper mentioned new point parameters, point is written to the DWG file and to the ...\CGSAPPS\POINTS" area. This way a new point type is ready for use. You can perform a test by inserting it to a drawing using the Insert individual point (11F2) command.

Users can now freely interchange the point definitions simply by transferring the files from the "...\CGSAPPS\POINTS" area to another one.

Command name: DEFINE NEW POINT TYPE USING THE EXISTING POINT

Command code: 11E4

Icon:

Task: defining of a new point attributes on a basis of the existing point

Input data: insertion via dialog box

Output data: point drawn in a form of DWG block

Layers: defined by user

See also commands: 11E2, 11E3, 11F

You can define a new point type using the existing point types in a drawing. Using the11E4 command, select the existing point in a drawing. The following dialog box appears:

When defining a new point type, both point graphic and attribute part of the selected existing point are taken as a default value. Existing point, serving as the basis for the new point definition, can also be without attributes. See the11E3 command for a dialog box use.

Command name: CHANGE POINT TYPE

Command code: 11E5

Icon:

Task: Changing a point type for a selected point group

Input data: Points

See also commands: 11A22, 11E3, 11E4

The LAYOUT module enables changing of type both for individual point and point group. Using this command, you can convert a point to a manhole or Slovenian CGS points into the German ones and vice versa.

After invoking this command, the following dialog box opens:

On the right side there are selected point types and below their attributes. On the left there is a list from which you can select a point type into which you want to convert a selected point group. The left list comprises all points normally found in the points definitions directory (see the 11A22 command).

User should arrange/assign an appropriate attribute of an existing point for each new point. The existing point attributes can be selected from the pull-down list.

The upper dialog box shows a conversion of the 10_DP point into the 10_TP point. Each attribute in 10_DP point gets the corresponding attribute from the 10_TP point.

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2.6. 11F - Points

The insertion of points into the layout plan is one of the most important tasks in the LAYOUT module. Points can be read from a XYZ file or defined with several other commands, allowing the input of a single point or a group of points simultaneously.

Figure: Points inserted into a layout plan.

Command name: INPUT POINTS

Command code: 11F1

Icon:

Task: Reading and drawing points and connections from a file

Input data: point file

Output data: Drawn points and connections

Layers: Depending on points and connections

See also commands: 11C1, 11D1, 11D2

This command reads an arbitrary column file and draws points into the layout plan. If the file is of standard type (XYZ) and it contains also the data regarding the connections among the points, then the 11F1 command draws also the connections. The Input points command (11F1) arranges/assigns the attribute values to the points and connections saved in the file.

After invoking the Input points (11F1) command, the following dialog box appears:

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Legend/The Input points dialog box explanation:

Input file, Points XYZ file from which you can read points' and connections' data

Select sections sections’ list in a selected XYZ file

Select layer select a layer to which you want to input points

Decimal places, Number of decimal places

number of decimal places needed for elevation labels output

Drawing 2D / 3D points points can be drawn to the layer with z= 0.00 (2D) or at the elevation label

Options, Draw connections you can set whether the connections among the points are to be drawn or not. Connections can be drawn only if they have been previously set in a XYZ file. See the XYZ file description

Options, Draw points you can set whether the points should be drawn or not

Options, Don't draw points with 0.00 elevation

set whether points having the 0.0 elevation will be drawn or not. This option proves useful when inputting points for DTM base where points having the 0.0 elevation may »harm« DTM

Program automatically recognizes an XYZ file version. If the XYZ file was created using the PLATEIA 5.0 program, then you need to define the appropriate code for the certain point using the Codes tab.

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The procedure is as follows:

1. Using the Codes list, select an appropriate point code.

2. Using the Points list, select an appropriate point name.

3. Click = . Selected code gets arranged/assigned a selected point.

Connections between the codes and points are displayed in the Codes arrangements /assignments list. You can erase any connection simply by selecting it and clicking Erase from list.

If the XYZ file was created using the new CGS plus programs (PLATEIA 6 or newer, AQUATERRA 2005 or newer), codes definition is not necessary.

Points get drawn at coordinates defined in the XYZ file. At the same time, attributes' values are inputed to the points. Also, you can enter an additional point (topographycal or any other) symbol. Using the packet points' input, you can read data from different XYZ files or data sections in sequence. This way you can group points in the layout plan.

Edit and define the new file type:

Besides the reading of the points from the default file XYZ, it is also possible to read and to transfer points from any other Type, where the data are listed in columns, separated only by any delimiter. The file types are edited by means of a button. The following dialog box opens:

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The settings mean:

File type name File type name. From the drop-down menu you can select the file types that were previously defined.

Default extension The default extension for the selected file type

Delimiter From the drop-down menu you can select or write a symbol in the field that separates the columns in the file

Treat consecutive delimiters as one

If this option Is selected, more consecutive delimiters without data are treated as one delimiter (e.g. five blank spaces define the border between two columns and not five new columns)

Data / Columns A column is defined in the file, where this data is stated, for every CGSplus-point that is stated below. If the data is not in the file, you can select an option from the drop-down menu Constant (a constant value is entered, e.g. for the point type), counter (the value will increase with every read point) or No data.

Individual data of the CGSplus points are explained in Appendix A, under Structure of the default file XYZ.

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A new type is defined by clicking a button . A dialog box appears, where a name is defined for the new type. Then the connection between the data of points and columns is filled. You can do this by stating for every data in which column of the selected file type it appears or you can select any other option, if there is no such data in the selected file type. All settings are saved on the hard drive and are available the next time you call the function for points input.

With the settings in the upper dialog box, the following file can be read:

853.11 574.62 343.12 1 P1 862.2 562.17 341.94 2 P1 864.69 559.38 339.88 3 P1 866.34 556.74 340.06 4 P1 869.49 552.66 341.56 5 P1 875.85 537.21 341.84 6 P1 844.77 521.73 341.58 7 P2 839.73 536.85 341.62 8 P2 837.03 538.89 339.96 9 P2 835.32 540.78 339.98 10 P2 834.69 541.17 341.66 11 P2 826.77 555.81 342.36 12 P2

XYZ file structure: See Appendix A.

How to create an XYZ file

You can create an XYZ file by using the following commands:

• Data transformation (11C1),

• Data conversion from total station (11C2),

• Calculate detail points (11D1),

• Calculate profile points (11D2),

• Save points from drawing to file (11F9).

See descriptions of individual commands.

Command name: SINGLE POINT COORDINATE INPUT

Command code: 11F2

Icon:

Task: Inserting of a single survey point into the drawing

Input data: Via dialog box

Output data: Point

Layers: Depending on points

See also commands: 11E3, 11E4, 11F1

You can save points to a drawing using either the Input points command (11F1) or the Input individual point command (11F2). However, when using the latter command, you can input points sequentially, one by one.

After invoking this command, you select location for the point to be inputted by a mouse. After inputing of location (X,Y points), input also the rest of the data using the dialog box below.

Layout – 41

Legend/The Input individual points dialog box explanation:

Point type currently active point type

Preserve old values this option enables you to preserve the values from the previous point inputing so there is no need for entering all of attributes anew, you enter just the modified ones

Attributes selecting of atributes values depending on the point type

By clicking the button showing the default point type (10_DP in this case), the Active point type dialog box opens – see 11E3 Command.

Command name: SINGLE POINT DISTANCE / ANGLE INPUT

Command code: 11F3

Icon:

Task: Inserting of a single survey point into the drawing based on distance

and angle information


Output data: Point


See also commands: 11F1, 11F2, 11F4

The Single Point Distance / Angle Input (11F3) command represents the second method for inserting single survey points into the drawing. Instead of having to select the appropriate point or enter its coordinates, you can determine the point by the distance and the angle.

Layout – 42

The Single Point Distance / Angle Input dialog box allows you to choose from four different input methods:

1. Horizontal angle, vertical angle, horizontal length;

2. Horizontal angle, vertical angle, oblique length;

3. Horizontal angle, elevation difference, horizontal length;

4. Horizontal angle and horizontal length;

While the last (4th) input method only allows retrieving the point’s X and Y coordinates, using the first three methods you can also determine the point’s elevation.

After selecting the appropriate input method, the standpoint and the instrument elevation have to be defined.

After that, the standpoint has to be oriented. First select the orientation point and then enter the horizontal direction to this point (the reading from the horizontal ring of the instrument). Orientation points are points with known coordinates. A standpoint can be oriented with one or more standpoints. After orienting the standpoint, press ENTER – the middle orientation angle (arithmetic mean of all angles) is then displayed on screen.

After orienting the standpoint, you can start entering the survey data. The command line displays the following line:

Counter/End/Point label <1>:

Command line explanation:

• Counter sets the counter for the detail point enumeration (i.e. the point labels).

• End terminates the point input.

• Point label sets the label of the following point, the survey information will be entered for.

The survey information has to be entered separately for every point, according to the selected input method.

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Command name: COPY POINT 3D

Command code: 11F4

Icon:

Task: Inserting of a single survey point into the drawing by making a copy of another one

Input data: Via command line

Output data: Point


See also commands: 11F1, 11F2, 11F3

The Copy point 3D (11F4) command creates a new point on the basis of an existing point in the drawing. The following information has to be entered:

• Existing point,

• Horizontal direction, the point will be copied to,

• Elevation of the new point or the vertical distance from the existing point,

• Point label/number.

This command is especially useful for generating points for walls, terraces and other objects with defined lower edge points and a known height.

Command name: GENERATE POINTS ALONG LONGITUDINAL-AXIS

Command code: 11F5

Icon:

Task: Generating points along the longitudinal axis with the help of 3D interpolation

Input data: 3D or 2D polygon, segment length

Output data: Points


See also commands: 11G

This command allows you to interpolate 3D heights on three-dimensional polygons. The density of the newly generated points can be set either by selecting an arbitrary interval between two adjacent points or by defining the total number of points on the polygon. If the selected polygon is three-dimensional, the appropriate point heights are interpolated too.

After starting the Generate points along longitudinal-axis (11F5) command, you first have to select the appropriate polygon – then the following options appear in the command line:

Counter/Length-interval <Number of intervals>:

Explanation:

• Counter sets the counter for the detail point enumeration.

• Length-interval specifies the density of the newly generated points by the interval between individual points.

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• Number of intervals specifies the number of intervals, the polygon is divides into.

Command name: ORTHOGONAL MESUREMENTS: POINTS DRAWING <-ORM

Command code: 11F6

Icon: None

Task: Point specification based on orthogonal measurements

Input data: axis, abscissa, ordinate or ORM file

Output data: drawn and labeled points

Layers: defined by points


This function enables saving points based on orthogonal measurements. Individual point measurements (between two points, that is, axis) can be saved manually or via file while the reverse function (11F7) saves measurements for selected points on some axis in the file. Note that this command works only on straight axis.

When you run this command, a menu appears in the command line by which you can select between the settings, data savings via the file or manual saving.

Settings/File/First axis point:

Measurements can be entered in a drawing manually. First you select the first and second axis point and then you enter abscissa and ordinate for each new point. You end saving by choosing the End option to confirm our exit from the command.

In drawing, points are drawn of the type that has been previously selected. According to the selected settings, also auxiliary lines and elevations are drawn.

Example:

Figure: Saving points based on orthogonal measurements.

After the Settings option has been selected, a dialog box shown below appears in which you can set a point type and drawing layer to which points will be saved. There are choices of an optional entering of auxiliary lines and saving of measurements into the drawing. You can also specify a layer for each auxiliary element (lines and labels).

Layout – 45

If you select the File option in the command line, you enter measurements that you have previously saved in the file by using the 11F7 command.

Command name: ORTHOGONAL MEASUREMENTS: SAVE POINTS -> ORM

Command code: 11F7

Icon: None

Task: Saving points to file based on orthogonal measurements

Input data: axis and points to be saved

Output data: ORM file



This function enables saving of measurements into a drawing or a file according to some straight line for any points in a drawing. Firstly, you select the first and second axis point which represent a basis for saving measurements. If you have in your drawing a previously defined straight line, you can use it by selecting it.

Then you select points and click Enter. A dialog box opens where you can define the file's name and section to which you want to save our data (see dialog box below).

Layout – 46

Data saved in a drawing are having the same format as described at saving measurements. In case that axis points labels are unknown, value »A« is saved as the first axis point label and value «B« is saved as the second axis point label.

Before saving data to a file, you can use the Settings option to select the form of data saving (see dialog box below).

Example of file with known elevations for individual points:

# 1 5 42759.06 72305.00 0.00 7 42802.21 72351.69 0.00 15 24.81 -33.40 0.00 0.00 150.14 6 27.94 -22.27 5 9.17 -19.30 0.00 0.00 148.43 4 4.87 -27.40 0.00 0.00 152.41

In the upper example you can see that elevations for points 15, 5 and 4 (saved to a drawing at the time of points calculation) are known. For point 6, the elevation is unknown and therefore a default of 0.0 is accepted (example showing drawn points is described with the 11F6 command).

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Command name: LABEL XY POINT/BLOCK COORDINATES

Command code: 11F81

Icon:

Task: labeling of x and y point (or block) coordinates

Input data: from drawing

Layers: defined via dialog box

See also commands: 11F82, 11F83

Using the11F81 command, label X and Y point (or block) coordinates. Program reads X and Y coordinates from the block insertion point. After invoking the command, dialog box with label settings appears:

The Label XY coordinates dialog box explanation:

Layer layer to which labels are drawn

Text style label text style

Precision select decimal place number for X and Y coordinate labels

Height label height in mm

Position label position according to the block input point

Prefix X and Y coordinate label prefix

Sufix label sufix

After clicking OK, select points to be labeled.

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Command name: EDIT COORDINATE LABEL

Command name: 11F82

Icon:

Task: moving of coordinate labels

Input data: label to be moved

Output data: label end point

Layers: defined by labels


When outputting labels using the 11F81 command, labels are drawn automatically having a constant distance from the block insertion point. That is why there is a possibility of neighboring label overlapping. In such cases or when you want to have a label to be outputted at some other place, use the Edit coordinate label command (11F82). After invoking this command, command line reads:

Select block:

First select a block and then a new label position. Click ENTER and finish your editing.

Using this command, you can label any element of Block reference type.

Command name: ERASE COORDINATE LABEL

Command code: 11F83

Icon:

Task: erasing of coordinate labels

Input data:

Output data:

Layers:


This command is intended for erasing of coordinate labels. After invoking the command, select those points for which you want to erase their labels.

Command name: SAVE POINTS FROM DRAWING TO FILE -> XYZ

Command code: 11F9

Icon: None

Task: Saving selected points to a XYZ file

Input data: Points

Output data: XYZ file



This command is the inverse command of Input Points <- XYZ (11F1) and can be used:

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• when the selected points have to be transferred to another drawing;

• when the original XYZ file is lost and you want to recreate it;

• when you want to find out the structure of individual lines in the XYZ file for a selected point. This is especially useful when you define your own point type and you want to prepare a XYZ file to be read into the drawing with the Input Points <- XYZ (11F1). By saving a selected point and then examining the resulting XYZ file, you can easily identify where a specific information in the line has to be.

The Save points from drawing to file dialog box allows you to select only those point types you actually want to save in the file.

XYZ file format:

See Appendix A.

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2.7. 11G - Edit Points

Commands from this command group allow you to edit the point data (e.g., the point attributes).

Point attributes are numerical and alphanumerical information saved together with a survey point. Different point types can have different point attributes, yet all point types feature at least two common attributes: point label and point elevation.

In addition to these two attributes every point can have an unlimited number of other attributes which can either be visible (i.e. are displayed in the drawing) or invisible (i.e. are not displayed in the drawing). The two standard point types – PK_DP (detail point) and PK_TP (traverse point) – have two invisible attributes: CROSS_SECT (cross section number) and CROSS_SECT_SYM (the symbol to be drawn in the cross section). These two attributes can also be made visible if needed.

Figure: Systematically arranged points in a layout plan.

Above all, point attributes can be edited in order to improve the legibility of the survey plan. Individual attributes can be moved, rotated and made visible or invisible. The output format of numerical data can also be altered (e.g. for point elevations). To edit attributes, use the Edit point data (11G1) command from the Edit points command group.

Command name: EDIT POINT DATA

Command code: 11G1

Icon:

Task: Checking and editing of data for one or more points

Input data: Points

Output data: Points

Layers: Defined by points

See also commands: 11F, 11G

Using this command you can check and edit point coordinates and attribute values a selected point (or point group) comprises. If you do a multiple point selection, you can do also a multiple attributes values definition at the same time.

After invoking the Edit point data (11G1) command (when selecting only one existing point in a drawing), the following dialog box opens:

The Edit point attributes dialog box explanation:

Point type selected point type

Position>> select/specify X and Y coordinates for a selected point

X X coordinate (EAST)

Y Y coordinate (NORTH)

Attributes selected point type attributes appear (depending on the selected point type)

You can change/modify attribute values and decide whether they will be visible or not.

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After invoking the Edit point data (11G1) command (when selecting several existing points in a drawing), the following (slightly different) dialog box opens:

Here the X and Y point coordinates cannot be modified with the selected point group. In the upper part of the dialog box you can see a pull-down list of selected points. You can switch between these selected point types. After the point type selection is done, corresponding attributes automatically change.

NEW in PLATEIA- the way of setting equal attribute value. In case of different attribute values, you can spot a star (*) in the Value field. If the selected point group has an identical attribute value, you can spot an actual value in the Value field.

In case of changing the attribute values (when a point group has been selected), complete point group will adopt the entered attribute value.

This command can be very useful not only for checking attribute values in individual points but also when assigning of a cross-section number or a symbol for drawing to a selected point group. You can do it all only by using one command.

Command name: SEARCH FOR POINTS

Command code: 11G2

Icon:

Task: Finding points using different search criteria

Input data: Points

Output data: Points


See also commands: 11G3

Using this command, you can find points in the drawing by employing different search criteria (like point label, number, type and attribute value). After selecting the Search for Points (11G2) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The Search for points dialog box explanation:

Label search activate this check box to search for point labels

Point label enter the point label you are searching for

Attribute search activate this check box to search for point attributes; after activating the check box, select the appropriate attribute and specify the value you are searching for

Point-type search activate this check box to search for points of a specific type; after activating the check box, select the appropriate point type you are searching for

The different search criteria (label, attribute, and point type) can also be combined. This way you can, for example, find all type PK_TP points (standard traverse points in GeoEngineering) with an elevation of 120 m or more.

The search result is a selection of points that can be recalled with the Previous option of AutoCAD’s Select Objects command. The selected points can be transferred to another drawing, moved to another layer, etc.

More complex search procedures can be performed under AutoCAD MAP with its special search functions. Note that the points, however, have to be prepared for processing under AutoCAD MAP. See Linking LAYOUT module data to AutoCAD MAP).

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Command name: VERIFY DOUBLE POINTS

Command code: 11G3

Icon: None

Task: Finding points with duplicated labels

Input data: Points

Output data: Points



With this command, you can check whether your drawing contains points with identical labels/numbers (this sometimes happens during the insertion of consecutive points). As the commands 11F1 to 11F5 have no built-in label control mechanism, it is advisable to check your drawing with the Verify double points (11G3) command. This way you will assure that your survey plan contains no duplicate point labels (a non-desirable situation in a layout plan).

If the program finds two points with identical labels, a warning of the following type is issued in the command line:

Command: Please wait... OK Points and number of repetition: Point: 25 Repetitions: 2 Command:

When you find out which point labels in the drawing are used more than once, you can select all such points with the Search for Points (11G2) command using the Label search criteria.

Command name: MOVE ATTRIBUTE

Command code: 11G4

Icon:

Task: Moving of the selected visible point attribute

Input data: Selected point attributes

Output data: Selected point attributes

Layers: Depending on the point types

See also commands: 11G1, 11G5, 11G6, 11G7

As your layout plan gradually becomes crowded with points and other plan elements, you can improve the legibility of the survey plan by moving individual point attributes, like the label or elevation.

After selecting the Move Attribute (11G4) command, you have to select the desired attribute in the drawing and specify its new position. This procedure can be repeated for every individual point attribute (only one point attribute can be moved at once with this command).

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Command name: AUTO-ARRANGE ATTRIBUTES

Command code: 11G5

Icon:

Task: Finding new point-attribute positions automatically in order to improve the plan legibility

Input data: Selected points

Output data: Points with rearranged attributes



This command automatically rearranges the point labels and elevations of selected points in the drawing for improved legibility. You can use it if a manual rearrangement with the Move Attribute (11G4) command would be too time-consuming.

The Auto-arrange Attributes (11G5) command searches for empty space in the selected area and rearranges the point elevations or labels. The success of the operation depends heavily on the density of the drawing elements in the plan.

Figure: Left: overlapping points; Right: automatically arranged points;

An automatic rearrangement is much faster than a manual one, but the manual rearrangement gives you much more freedom in placing the point attributes and usually also produces better results.

Command name: ROTATE ATTRIBUTES

Command code: 11G6

Icon:

Task: Rotating the attributes of selected points for an arbitrary angle

Input data: Selected point attributes

Output data: Rotated point attributes



Sometimes the legibility of a survey plan can be improved by rotating the attributes of selected points. The Rotate Attributes (11G6) command can be very useful when you deal with small scale drawings, very dense details and when it there is no other possibility to accommodate all attribute labels.

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With this command, you can rotate individual attributes of a selected point type as well as more attributes at once (an "attribute group"). The rotation angle can simply be selected with the mouse or typed in the command line.

Command name: EDIT ATTRIBUTE LABELS

Command code: 11G7

Icon: None

Task: Defining the output method for numerical attribute values

Input data: Selected points

Output data: Points with attributes



Using this command you can modify the way numerical attributes appear in the survey plan (most often it is used to alter the output of point elevations). You can change the number of digits before and after the decimal point.

Modifying the output format does not affect the original numerical value that is permanently stored in the point itself and can only be changed with the Edit point data (11G1) command.

After selecting the Edit attribute labels (11G7) command, the following dialog box appears:

The Edit attribute labels dialog box explanation:

Points a list of selected point types

Attributes a list of attributes for the individual point type, together with the appropriate output format in the second column (or a "???" string if the attribute value is alphanumerical)

Output click this button to open another dialog box where you can modify the output format of numerical attribute values

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The Attribute output dialog box explanation:˝

Whole numbers select the number of digits before the decimal point

Decimal places select the number of digits after the decimal point

Example:

A drawing contains numerous survey points whose elevations range from 1210 to 1250 meters. If some of the attributes are overlapping because individual elevation labels are too long, you can abbreviate them by simply omitting the first two digits of the elevations (e.g. the program will print ‘34.56’ instead of ‘1234.56’).

The output before the decimal point can also be specified in the XYZ file (where the seventh column contains the elevation label output code). The following format descriptions can also be found under the description of the XYZ file format in Appendix A:

• LAB_TYPE defines the output method for elevation labels before the decimal point;

Allowed values are as follows:

• 0 the full elevation label is printed,

• 1 only one digit before the decimal point is printed (X.XX),

• 2 only two digits before the decimal point are printed (XX.XX),

• 3 the elevation label is hidden.

You can also specify the number of decimal places when reading points from a file with the Input Points (11F1) command, but there the number depends on the current scale settings.

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Command name: RELATIVE CHANGE OF POINT ELEVATION

Command code: 11G8

Icon: none

Task: changing elevation for selected points for any value

Input data: selected points in drawing

Output data: points in drawing with changed elevation

Layers: defined by point types


Using the 11G8 command, change elevation for selected points in a drawing for any value. You can use this command when you want to change elevation for selected points for, let's say, 1m. After invoking the command, program prompts you to select points in drawing and their relative elevation move. The selected points' elevation is changed by adding the selected value to the point elevation.

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2.8. 11H - Connection-Types

As with survey points, the appearance and attributes of connections can be defined by the user. The number of attributes is unlimited.

Connections can be drawn using any line type defined in the ACAD.LIN or CGSAPPS.LIN file and can be equipped with any number of user-defined attributes (used for water conduits, sewers, electricity and telephone lines).

For example, you can define an attribute named DIAMETER for the diameter or TYPE for the type (material) of the sewer.

Two commands are available in the Connection-Types command group: the first one for defining a new connection type and the second one for viewing the existing types.

Command name: LIST EXISTING CONNECTION TYPES

Command name: 11H1

Icon: none

Task: defined connection types list with attributes

Layers: this command does not use them

See also commands: 11H2, 11I2

This command is intended for viewing of already defined connection types and their attributes. When you select a connection group type from the upper left drop down list in a dialog box shown below, you can see names and selected group type descriptions in the lower window.

The Lines dialog box description:

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• Groups ... complete connection group list,

• Options, tabulated view ... you can browse connections by using a tabulated view or connection preview,

• Line type ... connection name and line type list.

By doubleclicking the connection type you can select your current connection type and start your interactive connection insertion as you would do with the 11I2 command.

Command name: DEFINE NEW CONNECTION TYPE

Command code: 11H2

Icon:

Task: defining of user defined connection appearance and attributes

Input data: insertion via dialog box

Output data: connection type saved in DWG block

Layers: user defined

See also command: 11H1, 11E3

Using the Define new connection type (11H2) command, you can define a new connection type. When doing this, you need to select a line type resembling a connection and attributes you want to attach to this connection. You can use all line types defined in ACAD.LIN or CGSAPPS.LIN files according to the »LIN rule« found in AutoCAD program. Connections are saved to the "...\Connections\" folder as blocks with attributes. After invoking the command, the Connection definition dialog box opens with the General tab on:

The Connection definition dialog box explanation:˝

Name connection type name

Connection type line type from ACAD.LIN ali CGSAPPS.LIN files that you want to use as a connection

When you select the Attributes tab, a dialog box for attributes definition appears.

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Using Add button, you can add any attribute. The Attribute property dialog box opens:

The Attribute property dialog box explanation:

Name attribute name,

Layer layer to which attribute will be written,

Select point interactive selection of X and Y coordinates in drawing,

X EAST coordinate that defines attribute position at the moment of connection,

Y NORTH coordinate that defines attribute position at the moment of connection,

Height attribute text height in AutoCAD units; using the Height button, you can select height interactively,

Rotation attribute text rotation in radians; using the Rotation button, you can select rotation interactively,

Not visible attribute visibility.

By clicking Edit from the Connection definition dialog box, dialog box for attributes editing opens. This dialog box is identical to the one intended for a new attribute addition with the sole exception that it relates to the existing attribute.

By clicking Erase, you can erase a selected attribute.

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You can position attributes in the centre of a connection, either side by side or one above the other. Although positioning of attributes at the connection start or end is not possible in this version, you can position them to the left or right according to the connection center.

By selecting the Already defined tab, you can browse already existing connections between the points. A dialog box is shown below:

Useful application of connection types with attributes can be seen in the form of municipal infrastructure cadastres (waterworks, sewage system, gas system, phone, etc.). Connection types represent a basis for sampling and saving data related to the municipal infrastructure lines. Data written in such connections can be worked on in the AutoCAD MAP program where more demanding data reviews and analyses can be done.

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2.9. 11I - Connections

CGS point connections are – unlike normal lines drawn with the LINE, PLINE, etc. commands – an "intelligent" part of a drawing.

Connections link individual layout points in the survey plan – this is why points and connections are interdependent. Each connection contains information about the appropriate starting and ending point, the point/connection gap size, the connection type and the attribute values of the connection.

This information can be used for different queries. Because connections also contain information about the starting and ending point, the program can interpolate heights along them at any time, without the need for entering additional information. This means that a connection line can simply be converted into a three-dimensional line and used for the calculation of a digital terrain model, the measurement of an oblique length of a sewage, etc.

Figure: Connections between layout points.

With the commands from the Connections command group you can enter connections interactively or load them from a file and save the defined connections in a CON file.

Command name: SET GAP AND REFRESH

Command code: 11I1

Icon:

Task: Setting the gap size between a connection and a point and redrawing the connections


Output data: Connections

Layers: Depending on connections

See also commands: 11B, 11I2, 11I3

The gap between a connection line and a point can be altered in order to improve the plan’s legibility. To set the gap size, use the Set Gap and refresh (11I1) command.

The gap size is arbitrary (can also be ‘0’) and specifies the distance between the point and the line in millimeters of a plotted plan. The size of the gap on the computer screen depends on the current scale settings (see SCALE (11B)). After selecting the Set Gap and refresh (11I1) command, the following dialog box opens:

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The Set Gap and refresh explanation:

Gap length enters the gap size in millimeters of a plotted plan

Refresh gaps activate this check box to automatically redraw all connections in the layout plan with the correct gap size

Command name: CONNECT POINTS

Command code: 11I2

Icon:

Task: Drawing connections interactively by selecting appropriate points or point labels

Input data: From drawing



See also commands: 11I1, 11I3, 11H1

This command allows you to connect points in the layout plan interactively, by selecting individual points or their labels. But you are not limited to connecting only GeoEnginering points with this command – other point types are supported as well.

After selecting the CONNECT POINTS (11I2) command, the following message appears in the command line:

LInetype/LAyer/LABel/<Point>:

Message explanation:

• Linetype allows you to select the appropriate line (connection) type, defined with the Define new Connection-Type (11H1) command.

• Layer defines the layer for the output of the connections; the program suggests the current layer by default, but you can also select any other layer even if a layer that does not exist yet. In this case the layer will be created automatically.

• Label allows you to select the appropriate points with the help of their labels. Using this point selection method, you can also select a whole series of points (e.g., if you want to connect points 5, 6, 7, and 8, simply type in "5-8").

• Point allows you to select the appropriate point from the drawing; see also Chapter Selecting points in the layout plan.

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If you select the Linetype option, the following dialog box opens, displaying a list of available connection types with the appropriate attributes (if any):

You can draw any connection type with or without defined attributes (attributes are listed in the 3rd and 4th column of the list box). If you select a connection with attributes, you also have to enter the appropriate attribute values after creating the connection.

Command name: READ CONNECTIONS FROM FILE <- CON

Command code: 11I3

Icon: None

Task: Creating connections based on data from a CON file

Input data: CON file



See also commands: 11I2, 11I4

Connections between layout points can also be created with the help of a VER file which has to be prepared in advance. After selecting the Read connections from file <- CON (11I3) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The Read Connections from file dialog box explanation:

Input file, Connections specify the name of the CON file with the connection data

List of sections a list of sections in the selected CON file

Select all selects all sections

CON file format:

See Appendix A.

Command name: SAVE CONNECTIONS FROM DRAWING TO FILE -> CON

Command code: 11I4

Icon: None

Task: Saving connections together with the appropriate attribute values to a CON file

Input data: Selected connections

Output data: CON file


See also commands: 11I3, 11F9

This command saves the selected connections to a CON file. All connections in the drawing can be saved – including those inserted with the CONNECT POINTS (11I2) as well as those inserted with the Read connections from file <- CON (11I3) command. Connections drawn with normal AutoCAD commands (LINE, PLINE, etc.) will not be saved. The following connection data is saved: starting and ending point, connection type and appropriate attribute values.

For further information on the CON file format see Read connections from file <- CON (11I3).

Example of the CON file saved with the Save connections from drawing to file -> CON (11I4) command:

# 1 & DASHDOTX2 10_CONNECTIONS 2 7 & DASHDOTX2 10_CONNECTIONS 1 2 & DASHDOTX2 10_CONNECTIONS 7 6 & GAS_LINE 10_CONNECTIONS 4 5 & GAS_LINE 10_CONNECTIONS 3 4 & GAS_LINE 10_CONNECTIONS 5 7 # 2 & GAS_LINE 10_CONNECTIONS 5 6 & GAS_LINE 10_CONNECTIONS 4 5 & GAS_LINE 10_CONNECTIONS 3

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4

This command is the inverse command of the Read connections from file <- CON (11I3) meaning that data saved with the 11I4 command can be loaded with the 11I3 command again.

2.10. 11J - Edit Connections

Connection attributes are numerical and alphanumerical information linked to layout connections. Different types of connections can have different attributes. Attributes can be either visible (i.e. are displayed in the drawing) or invisible (i.e. are not displayed in the drawing).

You can edit connection attributes in order to improve the legibility of the layout plan. Individual attributes can be moved, rotated, and turned on or off. To edit attribute values use the Edit connection data (11J1) command from the Connections command group.

With command 11J2 you can search for specific connections.

Command name: EDIT CONNECTION DATA

Command code: 11J1

Icon:

Task: Displaying a list of all connections and allows making changes to the attribute values


Output data: Connections with attributes


See also commands: 11H1, 11I2

This command is similar to the Edit point data (11G1) command for displaying and editing point data. Every connection has – depending on its type – connection-specific attributes. Using the Edit connection data (11J1) command, you can enter values of empty attributes and modify the already defined ones.

Example:

A connection attribute value PIPE_PROFILE of 200 can be changed to 300 or any other value applicable.

Depending on how many connections were selected when calling the Edit connection data (11J1) command, you can edit the attributes of single or multiple connections. After selecting the command and the appropriate connections, the following dialog box opens:

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The EDIT CONNECTION DATA dialog box explanation:

Connections a list of selected connection types.

Attributes a list of attributes and their values for the selected connection type; if multiple connections are selected and the values of the same attribute vary, the second column of the list box displays "Various".

Value edits the value of the currently selected attribute.

Command name: SEARCH FOR CONNECTIONS

Command code: 11J2

Icon:

Task: Finding connections in the drawing using the connection name and attribute values

Input data: All connections in the drawing




This command is similar to the Search for Points (11G2) command from the Points command group. Two search criteria can be applied: line type and attribute value (the latter is not obligatory). After selecting the Search for Connections (11J2) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The Search for Connections dialog box explanation:

Line types a list of all line types in the drawing

Attributes select an attribute from the list and enter the value you are searching for. You can choose one of the following comparison operators: "=" (equal to), ">" (greater than), "<" (less than), "<=" (less than or equal to) and ">=" (greater than or equal to)

The program issues a message concerning the number of found elements and saves the elements in a so-called "Selection Set" (the list of elements). The search result can then be recalled with the ‘Previous’ option of AutoCAD’s SELECT OBJECTS command.

Command name: MOVE ATTRIBUTE

Command code: 11J3

Icon:

Task: Moving of the selected visible attribute of a connection

Input data: Selected connection attributes

Output data: Selected connection attributes

Layers: Depending on the connection types

See also commands: 11H1, 11J4, 11J5

Once you have created too many points and connections causing the plan elements start overlapping each other, you can improve the survey plan legibility by moving individual connection attributes.

After selecting the Move Attribute (11J3) command, you have to select the desired attribute in the drawing and specify its new position. This procedure can be repeated for every individual attribute (only one attribute can be moved at once).

This command is practically identical to the Move Attribute (11G4) command from the Points command group. You can even use Move Attribute (11G4) to move connection attributes (and vice versa - you can use Move Attribute (11G4) to move point attributes).

Command name: ROTATE ATTRIBUTES

Command code: 11J4

Icon:

Task: Rotating of the attributes of selected connections for an arbitrary angle

Input data: Selected connection attributes

Output data: Rotated point attributes



Sometimes the legibility of a survey plan can be improved by rotating the attributes of selected connections. The Rotate Attributes (11J4) command can be very useful when dealing with small-scale drawings and very dense details when it otherwise is not possible to find an empty space for all attributes.

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With this command, you can rotate individual attributes of a selected connection type or attributes at once (an "attribute group"). The rotation angle can simply be selected with the mouse or typed in the command line.

This command is practically identical to the Rotate Attributes (11G6) command from the Points command group. You can even use Rotate Attribute (11G6) to rotate connection attributes (and vice versa - you can use Rotate Attribute (11J4) to rotate point attributes).

Command name: ATTRIBUTES ON/OFF

Command code: 11J5

Icon:

Task: Making selected connection attributes visible/invisible


Output data: Connections with attributes


See also commands: 11J

With this command you can make the attributes of one or more connections visible or invisible and thus improve the plan legibility. After selecting the appropriate connection(s), the following dialog box appears:

The Attributes ON/OFF dialog box explanation:

• Connections a list of selected connection types.

• Attributes a list of attributes; ON in the second column means that the attribute is visible and OFF that it is invisible.

• Turn ON click this button to make the selected attribute visible.

• Turn OFF click this button to make the selected attribute invisible.

Turning an attribute off is not identical to erasing it (the attribute’s data is still stored in the point). This is why an invisible attribute can be made visible again later without loosing its original value.

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2.11. 11K - Break-lines and 3D

While working in a layout plan, you may often encounter the need for a three-dimensional representation of your data. In spite of the fact, that points and connections – as well as point and line topographic symbols – of a survey plan are always drawn from a ground plan perspective. Therefore, a two-dimensional view of the plan with labeled point and contour heights is sufficient for the presentation of the plan.

Often, though, two-dimensional plan elements have to be "lifted" into the third dimension for the needs of digital terrain modeling (DTM) or for creating 3D visualizations. And this is where you can use the commands from the Break-lines and 3D command group.

Commands are as follows:

• Digitize Break-lines (11K1) – is a simple drawing tool for the digitalization of break lines on the basis of known heights or a draft/scanogram.

• Generate Break-lines from 2D drawing and XYZ data (11K3) - is a complex tool for the automatic creation of 3D break lines based on 2D lines and data from a XYZ file.

• Transform points and connections from 2D to 3D and reversed (1K3) – is a command for the transformation of two-dimensional plan elements into 3D and vice versa.

Break lines – representing the boundary values for the creation of a DTM’s triangular mesh – play a very important role in creating a digital terrain model. Break lines can present, for example, terrain faults, terraces, walls, ditches, roadsides, cuts, fills, and other similar elements. AutoCAD draws three-dimensional break lines as 3D polygons.

Most commonly, the transformation into 3D is performed based on survey points (created with the LAYOUT module) and three-dimensional AutoCAD elements (polygon and point elements). In any case, the program has to be able to read the elevation of a specific element in order to be capable of transforming it into 3D. Every point, drawn with one of CGS plus commands, has the elevation attribute that can be used by the program’s 3D transformation routines. This is, however, not true for normal AutoCAD line, pline, point and other elements; the elevations of these elements can only be read by CGS plus programs if they already are three-dimensional.

Command name: DIGITIZE BREAK-LINES

Command code: 11K1

Icon:

Task: Generating 3D break lines from a set of given points and their heights

Input data: Points and their elevations

Output data: 3D break lines as 3DPOLY elements

Layers: 10_3D_BREAK_LINES

See also commands: 11K3, 11L4

The Digitize Break-lines (11K1) command creates a three-dimensional polyline (3DPOLY entity), representing a terrain fault or the edge of a roadway, embankment, watercourse, etc. A break line created with this command can be used as the input for the QuickSurf’s Extract break-lines from Drawing (11L4) command when generating a digital terrain model.

Supposing you want to digitize a roadside with only a few points surveyed. The purpose of the digitalization is to improve the accuracy of the ground plan at the roadside and of the heights

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between individual survey points. The roadway’s ground plan is derived from the layout drawing or the scanogram used as a foundation for the plan creation.

A break line can be defined by selecting a series of points along the desired edge. If these points have been created using CGS plus programs, the program retrieves all the three point coordinates (X, Y, and Z) automatically. Otherwise, (i.e. if you select a point that is not a PK_DP or PK_TP point or is of a different type) the program will only automatically retrieve the X and Y coordinates. The Z coordinate will have to be entered manually.

You can start the digitalization process by selecting an initial point with a known elevation (Z coordinate). You can then continue selecting a series of points until you reach the final point whose elevation also has to be known. The elevation of all intermediate points without a known Z coordinate will be calculated automatically using an interpolation. After the successful input of all necessary information, the program will draw a 3DPOLY element (the break line) on the 10_3D_BREAK_LINES layer.

Command name: AUTOMATIC 2D-CONTOURS ELEVATION DEFINITION

Command code: 11K2

Icon:

Task: Automatically defining elevation for 2D contours

Input data: 2D contours, initial elevation. equidistance

Output data: 3D contours, points at polyline intersection

Layers:

See also commands: 11K, 11L

Using this command you can perform an automatic elevation definition for 2D contours. In addition, it is useful for drawing digitalization and converting data 2D->3D. You can use contours with elevation for DMR production using the Quicksurf program.

Prior to invoking this command you need to draw a line or polyline intersecting contours.

After invoking the command, first select the line intersecting contours and then those contours to which you want to define elevations. The following dialog box opens:

Legend:

• Intial elevation... first contour elevation,

• Equidistance... elevation difference between two neighbouring contours,

• Number height...label heights that are drawn at the intersection with a line,

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• Layer... layer to which labels are drawn.

After clicking the OK button, contours get elevations and are coloured. At the intersections with given line or polyline labels get drawn. The picture below shows an example of contour definition having the following settings: Initial elevation = 100, Equidistance = 5.

Figure: Definition of contours (Initial elevation: 100, equidistance: 5).

Program takes into account a direction of line intersecting the contours. You need to draw either a line or polyline in the direction of elevation increase.

Command name: DRAW 3D BREAK-LINES USING 2D DRAWING

Command code: 11K3

Icon:

Task: drawing of 3D break-lines using 2D lines and elevation data

Input data: 2D break-lines, file with coordinates, geodetic points

Output data: 3D break-lines drawn as 3D POLY elements

Layers: 10_3D_BREAK_LINES, 10_3D_BREAK_LINES_ERRORS

See also commands: 11K1, 11L4

The Draw 3D break-lines using 2D drawing (11K3) command represents a great aid when drawing 3D break-lines. Especially when having 2D DWG drawings on disposal that weren't made using the CGS plus programs and when you want to calculate a digital terrain model from them.

Using the 11K3 command, you can draw 3D break-lines providing you have already drawn 2D break-lines with line, pline and arc commands and elevation data recorded either in CGS points or in files of the ASC or XYZ type.

For each selected 2D line element representing a break-line and for each line element point (start, end and mid points), program searches the appropriate X and Y coordinates either from selected points in a drawing or from selected ASC or XYZ files. If it finds appropriate X and Y coordinates for a treated line element point, it reads an elevation label from the point or file.

Program repeats the procedure for each point of the selected line element. If it succeeds in finding X, Y and Z coordinates for at least two points, it will draw an appropriate 3D poly element. It is recommended to have coordinate data for start and end point of a selected 2D line element available. This way, program can do a linear interpolation of mid points in case there are no appropriate elevation labels.

Program puts those parts of the curves for which 3D break-line cannot be drawn on the 10_3D_BREAK_LINES_ERRORS layer while successfully drawn break-lines are put on the 10_3D_BREAK_LINES layer.

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PLATEIA enables selecting of points not lying exactly on selected element. They just need to be near to the element start or end points.

When invoking the 11K3 command, the following dialog box appears:

The Draw 3D break-lines using 2D drawing dialog box explanation:

3D edges if this option is selcted, user can select layer for successfuly created 3D edges

Errors if this option is selcted, user can select layer for objects that can not be drawn in 3D.

Select 2D Line/Pline objects select 2D, pline (also with arc segments) or arc elements to be transformed to a 3D space

Select points if 2D elements that you want to lift touch drawn PLATEIA points, program can read elevation labels from selected points

By clicking the Points in file tab, you can use points directly from files.

• >> ASC Input file ... select ASC type file with point data. ASC file is described in Appendix A.

• >> XYZ Input file .... select XYZ type file with point data. XYZ file is described in Appendix A.

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By clicking the Settings tab, set the following parameters:

• Arc interpolation accuracy [m] ... allowed ground plan accuracy for arc interpolations with

chord polygons. Selected accuracy represents a distance between arc and chord mid point;

• Tolerance [m] ... arc starts and ends can be positioned at a certain distance from the selected points. Example below shows 3D break-lines that were successfully drawn as the program considered the a area of individual points defined by the tolerance.

Tolerance is considered only for the arc (line) starts and ends. Example below shows 3D break-lines that weren’t successfully drawn as the program finds only the point at the utmost right. Although the second point lies in the selected point area, program does not consider it as a real arc start or end.

Again, it might be important to stress the difference between connections made either by the Insert connection (11I2) or Insert connections <- CON (11I3) commands and those »connections« made by the AutoCAD commands such as Line and Pline.

CGS connections (11I2 and 11I3 commands) are elements in which start and end point labels are written if such element connects geodetic points. Therefore, they enable reading of elevation labels of start and end points and relatively simple connection drawing in a form of a 3D break-line. You can do this using the Generate break lines from connections (11K6) command.

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By using the usual AutoCAD elements it is more difficult to define coordinates of the start and end points. Namely, such elements do not have written data of a start and end point and program has to gain the elevation labels either from selected points or files. In such case you use the Draw 3D break-lines using 2D drawing and XYZ file (11K3) command.

Command name: TRANSFORM POINTS FROM 2D TO 3D AND REVERSED

Command code: 11K4

Icon:

Task: Transforming 2D points into 3D and vice versa

Input data: Points

Output data: Points



Points can be drawn in either two or in three dimensions. You can select the appropriate draw method to be applied (2D or 3D) when reading points from a XYZ file with the Input points (11F1) command.

More often than not, layout plans are drawn in two dimensions. Nevertheless, sometimes it is necessary for you to "lift" the drawn 2D points to 3D (or vice versa). For this purpose, use the Transform points from 2D to 3D and reversed (11K4) command. When transforming a 3D drawing into 2D, you can also specify the desired new elevation of all points (a 2D drawing does not necessarily have to be on elevation 0.0 m).

A three-dimensional drawing can serve for visualization purposes or for the optical verification of the defined heights. In a 3D drawing, an incorrect point height can easily be identified with AutoCAD’s axonometric view (VPOINT command).

After selecting the Transform points from 2D to 3D and reversed (11K4) command, the following dialog box appears:

The Transform points from 2D to 3D and vice versa dialog box explanation:

Select points click this button to select the points to be transformed from the drawing

Method select the transformation type (to 2D or to 3D)

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Height activating 2D method allows you to also enter the target elevation for the selected points

Command name: TRANSFORM CONNECTIONS FROM 2D TO 3D AND REVERSED

Command code: 11K5

Icon:

Task: Transforming 2D connections into 3D and vice versa

Input data: connections

Output data: connections


See also commands: 11F1, 11I2

Connections can be drawn in either two or in three dimensions. You can select the appropriate draw method to be applied (2D or 3D) when reading points from a XYZ file with the Input points (11F1) command. If points are drawn in 3D, so are the appropriate connections.

More often than not, layout plans are drawn in two dimensions. Nevertheless, sometimes it is necessary for you to "lift" the drawn 2D connections to 3D (or vice versa). For this purpose, use the Transform connections from 2D to 3D and reversed (11K5) command. When transforming a 3D drawing into 2D, you can also specify the desired new elevation of all connections (a 2D drawing does not necessarily have to be on elevation 0.0 m).

A three-dimensional drawing can serve for visualization purposes or for the optical verification of the defined heights. In a 3D drawing, an incorrect point height can easily be identified with AutoCAD’s axonometric view (VPOINT command).

After selecting the Transform connections from 2D to 3D and reversed (11K5) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The Transform drawing from 2D to 3D and vice versa dialog box explanation:

Select connections click this button to select the connections to be transformed from the drawing. The selected connections must be "true" connections, created with one of the 11I2, 11I3, or 11F1 commands (not with normal AutoCAD commands like LINE or PLINE)

Method select the transformation type (to "2D" or to "3D")

Height Activating 2D method allows you to also enter the target elevation for the selected connections

Command name: GENERATE 3D BREAK LINES FROM CONNECTIONS

Command code: 11K6

Icon:

Task: Transforming connections into 3D break lines

Input data: connections

Output data: 3D polylines

Layers: 10_3D_BREAK_LINES

See also commands: 11F1, 11L4

Command 11K6 is intended to generate 3D break lines from connections. The difference between 3D connections and 3D break lines is that the latter are joined together accurately and are thus suitable for the calculation of a digital terrain model. After selecting the Generate 3D break lines from connections (11K6) command, the following dialog box opens:

With Select lines button user selects connections for generating 3D break lines.

Command name: PLINE/3DPOLY 3D OFFSET

Command code: 11K7

Icon:

Task: Creating the parallel copy of a three-dimensional polyline

Input data: 3D polyline

Output data: Parallel copy of the selected 3D polyline

Layers: Current layer

See also commands: 11K1

The PLINE/3DPOLY 3D Offset (11K7) command creates the parallel copy of an existing 3D polyline.

To create the parallel copy of a three-dimensional polyline:

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1. Select the existing 3D polyline.

2. Enter the horizontal offset and the height difference between the existing and the newly created polyline.

3. Select the side that you would like to make the copy on.

The result is a new 3D polyline, parallel to the selected one.

Figure: Parallel copy of a 3D polyline.

The PLINE/3DPOLY 3D Offset (11K7) command can be used to create 3D break lines parallel to existing polylines (e.g. retaining walls, bridges, and terraces).

Command name: GENERATE ELEVATION LABELS ON 3DPOLY

Command code: 11K8

Icon:

Task: Generating elevation labels on three-dimensional polylines

Input data: 3D polylines

Output data: Elevation labels


See also commands: 11U2, 11U3

This command generates elevation labels for selected 3D Polylines. After starting the 11K8 command, the following options appear in the command line:

Polyline/Settings/<Point>:


• Polyline selects one or more 3D polylines from the drawing; the program generates elevation labels for all vertices of the selected entities.

• Settings changes the number of decimal places and text height of the dimensioning labels.

• Point generates an elevation label for a single point on a 3D polyline.

Once the program has generated the elevation labels, the following options appear in the command line:

Text-offset<@0.00,0.00>:

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Text-offset is the offset of the elevation labels from the appropriate 3DPOLY vertices.

You can use the Generate elevation labels on 3DPOLY (11K8) command to generate elevation labels on roadsides, terrain faults, walls, etc., often generated with the Digitize Break-lines (11K1) command.

Figure: Elevation labels on a 3DPOLY entity.

Command name: TRANSFORM LINE,PLINE, ARC ENTITIES FROM 3D -> 2D

Command code: 11K9

Icon:

Task: Conversion of 3D elements (Point, Block, Text, Circle, Line and Polyline) to 2D

Input data: AutoCAD elements drawn in 3D

Output data: AutoCAD elements drawn in 2D

Layers: defined by means of selected elements

See also commands: 11K1, 11K3

The Conversion of Auto CAD elements from 3D to 2D (11K9) command projects selected AutoCAD elements (Point, Block, Text, Circle, Line, Polyline in 3DPoly) drawn in 3D to any 2D layout. At the same time you select elevation of area to which these elements are projected. This command is very useful when some of the elements are drawn in 3D and some in 2D and you want to arrange the drawing.

Figure Left: elements in 3D; Right: elements after their projection to 2D;

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2.12. 11M - Symbol Libraries

The program has over 300 built-in symbols divided into two symbol libraries:

• Library 1 (point symbols for topographical blocks) and

• Library 2 (point symbols for cadaster blocks).

Command name: TTN POINT SYMBOLS

Command code: 11M1

Icon:

Task: inserting and editing of topographic symbols

Input data:

Output data:

Layers: defined for the individual symbol

See also commands:11M

This command enables inserting and editing of topographic symbol database of the base topographic plan. This command uses a SYMBOL MANAGER program. You can see a description of SYMBOL MANAGER operation in the introduction.

Command name: KKN POINT SYMBOLS

Command code: 11M2

Icon:

Task: inserting and editing of municipial infrastructure cadastre

Input data:

Output data:

Layers: defined for the individual symbol

See also commands: 11M

This command enables inserting and editing of municipial infrastructure cadastre symbols. This command uses a SYMBOL MANAGER program. You can see a description of SYMBOL MANAGER operation in the introduction.

Command name: SAVE SYMBOLS TO FILE -> PSY

Command code: 11M3

Icon:

Task: saving symbols to a file of type PSY

Input data: from drawing

Output data: PSY file

Layers:


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This command enables saving of any point symbols to a PSY file. After invoking the command, you need to select symbols in order to save them to the file. You can select between the symbols saved by means of the SYMBOL MANAGER program or any elements of the Block reference type. After you have finished your selection, the following dialog box appears:

In the dialog box you can select a path, section and PSY filename. Existing sections are shown in the list.

Symbols related data you can save to a PSY file comprise:

• block name, • X coordinate, • Y coordinate, • Z coordinate, • SCALE - X direction, • SCALE - Y direction, • SCALE - Z direction, • rotation, • block layer.

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Example of PSY file:

# 1 * BLOCK_NAME X Y Z SCALE_X SCALE_Y SCALE_Z ROTATION LAYER NIVP2 209.873 167.840 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL NIVP2 179.463 146.198 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL TR1 195.247 151.219 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL TR2 206.511 150.763 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL TR1 208.489 158.825 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL TR2 195.095 164.909 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL TR2 230.560 157.456 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL TR1 236.039 166.431 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL NIVP2 250.195 169.321 0.000 1.00000000 1.00000000 1.00000000 0.00000000 10_SYMBOL

Command name: READ SYMBOLS FROM FILE <- PSY

Command code: 11M4

Icon:

Task: Reads symbols from file

Input data: PSY file

Output data:

Layers:


Command 11M4 reads symbols from PSY type of file and inserts them into the drawing.

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2.13. 11N - Cut/Fill Hatches

Command name: DRAW CUT/FILL HATCH

Command code: 11N1

Icon:

Task: Drawing cut/fill boundaries, hatches and colors

Input data:

Output data:

Layers: 10_CUT_FILL

See also commands: 11N, 11B

Command is used to draw new Cut/Fill hatching. Command can be started by entering C3D_HATCHPOLY in to command line or by clicking command Utilities>Draw hatch from the CGS Extensions tool palette. After starting the command, dialog box appears:

On the right side of the dialog box we have to select the option for defining the boundary of the hatch. If we choose Upper and lower edges, we should provide the upper edges (Define upper edges:) and lower edges (Define lower edges:) by click on the corresponding button to select them from the drawing. If we choose 4 bounding points, we should provide the four parallelogram points by click on the button to pick them from the drawing.

Command can draw hatches for fill or cut. Hatch lines are perpendicular to the upper edges in case of fill and to the lower edges in case of cut (only if option Perpendicular hatch-lines is selected).

On the left side of the dialog box, there are parameters which defines hatch: Layer, Hatch density (in drawing units), Length of longer lines (in %) and Length of shorter lines (in %). Short hatch lines are drawn always on the hatch upper edge. Hatch lines can be perpendicular to the lower or upper edge if option Perpendicular hatch-lines is selected. In this case parameter Take angle bisector into account defines how hatch lines are drawn in areas where they could intersect. Parameter Variable hatch density can be used if distance

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between upper and lower edge is variable. If distance is longer, then distance between hatch lines is longer, if distance is shorter, then also distance between hatch lines is shorter. If option Hatching is selected, hatch lines are drawn. If Coloring is selected, hatch area is colored by selected color.

In the pictures below, hatches are drawn with different parameter variations: hatches were created by the same parameters with option Perpendicular hatch-lines and Take angle bisector into account turned on, except parameter Type of hatch. The left is in fill and the right is in cut.

Fill hatches were created by the same parameters, except parameters Perpendicular hatch-lines and Variable hatch density. Hatches in first row were created by Perpendicular hatch-lines turned on and hatches in second column were created by Variable hatch density turned on.

Fill hatch was defined by two upper edges (Define upper edges:) and three lower edges (Define lower edges:).

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Command name: EDIT CUT/FILL HATCH

Command code: 11N2

Icon:

Task: Editing cut/fill boundaries, hatches and colors

Input data: Existing cut/fill hatch

Output data: Drawn cut/fill

Layers: 10_CUT, 10_FILL

See also commands: 11N,11B

Command is used to edit existing Cut/Fill hatching in the drawing. Command can be started by entering 11N2. After starting the command, user is asked to select any of the hatch element from the drawing. Then the following dialog appears:

Parameters in the dialog are set to the proper values. Any parameter except Define area can be changed in the dialog. When hatch was created with option Upper and lower edges, then it cannot be converted to 4 bounding points. By clicking OK, existing hatch is erased and new hatch is created.

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Command name: ERASE CUT/FILL HATCH

Command code: 11N3

Icon:

Task: Removing selected cut/fill hatches from the drawing

Input data: Cuts/fills

See also commands: 11N, 11B

With this command, you can erase selected cuts/fills from the drawing. After you have started this command, you have to select the cuts/fills to be erased (it is enough to select a single element of the cut/fill to be erased – e.g. a hatch line).

2.14.

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11O - Draw

The Draw command group contains several useful commands for the arrangement of your layout drawing. From here you can create and label a decimal grid, search for uniform slopes, draw rectangular buildings, hatch buildings and draw stairs.

Command name: DRAW AND LABEL DECIMAL GRID

Command code: 11O1

Icon:

Task: Creating and labeling a decimal grid

Input data: Grid elements to be labeled and output settings

Output data: Decimal grid

Layers: 10_CROSSES

See also commands: 11B

This command draws a decimal grid in accordance with the current scale. You have to select two diametrical points that define the rectangular area for the output of the grid. The SNAP AutoCAD command is activated for the decimal grid generation.

When the decimal grid is to be labeled, the following line appears in the command line:

Dimensioning/<First point>:

If you select the option Dimensioning (press "d) a dialog box opens, allowing you to select the desired grid elements to be labeled and to define the output settings. You can preview the selected output settings directly in the Draw and Label Decimal Grid dialog box.

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The Draw and label Decimal Grid dialog box explanation:

Select grid-elements click this button to select the grid elements to be labeled.

Output type in this list you can select one of the two output types for grid labels: Line (in one line) or Column (in two lines).

Output in this list you can select the coordinates to be inserted into the drawing.

Example: Labeled grid element (output type: Column):

Command name: DRAW POINTS FOR DECIMAL GRID

Command code: 11O2

Icon:

Task: Saving CGS points in selected coordinate mesh

Input data: saving area, distance, point type, counter

Output data: drawn mesh of CGS points


See also commands: 11E3, 11E4

This function enables the user saving the field of any CGS points to a selected screen in the drawing. Field size can be specified by using diametral points. Any point types and distances between them can be specified.

When you run this command, a menu appears in the command line by means which you can select Settings or select the first point by which you define the area of drawing.

Settings/<First point>: When performing the size selection of the field in which points will be drawn, you select two diametral points. Points are drawn and are labeled from the left to the right and from up to down.

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Example of drawn point field:

Figure: Drawn point field.

Points' size depends on the currently set scale in drawing. By changing this scale, also the points' size is changed while interspaces between the individual points are preserved.

By selecting the Settings option in a command line, a dialog box appears (see below) in which you can set entered point type, distance between individual points and initial value of numbering (upper left point label).

The Settings dialog box:

Command name: UNIFORM SLOPE

Command code: 11O3

Icon: None

Task: Creating a line with a uniform slope

Input data: Height difference between contours, slope

Output data: Line with a uniform slope


See also commands:

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This command helps you find the curve / path with a uniform slope along the terrain. For the command to be executed successfully, the contours have to be present in the layout plan. Enter the elevation difference between two adjacent contours, the slope in percent (%) and the starting point. The command draws a construction circle. Select the intersection between the construction circle and the next contour. Repeat the procedure and finish it with ENTER. A polyline entity is drawn, representing the path with a uniform slope.

Figure: Uniform terrain slope.

This command can be very useful when searching for the corridor or area of an approach way or road with a prescribed maximum slope.

Command name: RECTANGULAR BUILDINGS

Command code: 11O4

Icon:

Task: Creating a rectangular building

Input data: Boundary points of the building

Output data: Rectangular building


See also commands: 11O5

The Rectangular Buildings (11O4) command can be used to insert manually surveyed rectangular building points into the layout plan. The result of the command is a closed polyline representing the building. First, define the baseline with the help of two points. The baseline serves as the basis for the creation of all other building perpendiculars. After defining the baseline you can either enter the building’s dimensions or select the consecutive points around the building.

The easiest way of defining the lengths of individual building sides is to move the crosshairs to the wanted direction with the pointing device and then enter the side length. To create a non-perpendicular building side press F8 – this switches the orthogonal input method off (press F8 to switch it on again).

To undo the input of an incorrect point press ‘U’ (Undo) and to close the polygon press ‘C’ (Close).

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Figure: Rectangular building.

Command name: HATCH BUILDINGS

Command code: 11O5

Icon:

Task: Hatching of one or more buildings

Input data: Building boundary or break points

Output data: Hatched building(s)


See also commands: 11O4

Use this command to hatch an existing building (i.e. a closed polyline) or to draw a building and hatch it simultaneously. Drawing and hatching buildings simultaneously can make work much easier when designing densely populated town centers. The gap size between the hatch and the building side and the hatch angle are user-definable.

Figure: Hatched building.

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Command name: STAIRS

Command code: 11O6

Icon:

Task: Creating stairs

Input data: Three points

Output data: Drawn stairs


See also commands:

Finishing a layout drawing often includes creating stairs for a specific building. With the Stairs (11O6) command you can easily create stairs with an arbitrary width by only selecting three points.

Figure 2-22: Stairs in the layout drawing.

Command name: CONNECTING LOWEST POINTS IN CROSS-SECTIONS

Command code: 11O7

Icon: None

Task: Linking the lowest points in profiles with polyline

Input data: points

Output data: drawn polyline

Layers: current layer

See also commands:

This command finds the lowest points in an individual profile and connects them to the polyline. Points must be CGS points and must have defined cross-section by means of an attribute.

Example:

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Figure : CONNECTING LOWEST POINTS IN CROSS-SECTIONS

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2.15. 11P - Output

This command group contains different commands for creating text files containing plan data. Such files can later be edited with any text editor.

Command name: STAKEOUT -> SET

Command code: 11P1

Icon:

Task: Saving stakeout elements to a SET file

Input data: Layout point and stakeout points

Output data: SET output file

See also commands: 11F

This command allows you to save terrain stakeout data to a file. To create the SET file, select the base point, the orientation and the points for which the stakeout elements are to be saved. The SET file format supports multiple file sections where every section can be used as a separate base point. After selecting the STAKEOUT -> SET (11P1) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The STAKEOUT dialog box explanation: (SET file format:

Output file

See Appendix A.)

enter the name of the SET output file

List of sections if you choose an existing file in Output file, the appropriate file sections are listed here.

List of sections, Section name

enter the name of a new section.

Data, Comment click this button to open a new dialog box, where you can enter a comment.

Data, Select base point click this button to select the base point.

Data, Select target point click this button to select the target point for the base point orientation; if you select no target point, the program will use the default value NORTH.

Data, Stakeout elements click this button to select the points (elements) for which stakeout data is to be saved.

Output select what data you would like to save to the SET output file.

Angles choose how the angles will be saved (in degrees or gradients).

Command name: DEFINE LONGITUDINAL-SECTION -> LON

Command code: 11P2

Icon:

Task: Creating a longitudinal section based on selected points

Input data: Selected points, starting station

Output data: LON file

See also commands: 11P3

Using the Define Longitudinal-section (11P2) command, you can create a longitudinal section based on a layout point selection. The program fetches the elevation of each point and – if you defined the starting station of the longitudinal section – determines their stations. After starting the Define Longitudinal-section (11P2) command, the Define Longitudinal-section dialog box appears:

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The Define Longitudinal-section dialog box explanation:

Output file, Longitudinal section

enter the name of the LON file to which the longitudinal section will be saved.

List of existing sections a list of existing file section in the Output file.


enter the name of a new file section; each LON can contain more longitudinal sections with different file section names.

Profile label select the appropriate method for the section labeling; you can choose between point labels and a cross-section labels (if the latter is stored in the that point).

Base station specify the station at the beginning of the longitudinal section.

After setting the appropriate parameters and clicking OK, you can start selecting the points in the drawing. The coordinates and station of the last selected point are also displayed on screen.

LON file format:

See Appendix A.

Command name: DEFINE CROSS-SECTIONS -> CRO

Command code: 11P3

Icon:

Task: Creating a cross section

Input data: Output file name, cross section points

Output data: CRO file

Layers:


This command is similar to the 11P2 command for defining a longitudinal section. Cross sections created with the Define Cross-sections (11P3) command are saved to a CRO file. After selecting the command, the Define Cross-sections dialog box, in which the name of the output file and the name of the file section can be selected, appears:

Define the cross-section number, the starting station, and the point in the axis of the profile. The following options appear in the command line :

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Right/Group of points/<Point left>


• Right select points on the right side of the axis.

• Group of points select multiple points simultaneously (points are sorted automatically).

• Point left select a single point on the left side of the axis.

The selected cross section points are transferred to a special window where you can determine the height difference, the length and the coordinates between individual points.

You can open a menu with various output settings by right-clicking the above window.

CRO file format:

Command name: DEFINE CROSS-SECTION - STEP-BY-STEP

Command code: 11P4

Icon: None

Task: Defining cross-section step-by-step

Input data: initial point and direction, horizontal distances and elevation differences

Output data: saved points

Layers: 10_CONSTR_LINES

See also commands: 11P2, 11P3

See Appendix A.

This functions is meant for users who measure cross-sections by using a step-by-step tool. It functions similarly as a standard built-in function for cross-section definition. On the basis of selected horizontal lengths (A1, A2, ...) and elevation differences (B1, B2, ...) you can draw points to a drawing.

User first selects a profile number. Then he/she selects a profile initial point and also a profile direction point. Axis point and profile direction point define a straight line in which the cross-section is calculated. After that saving of horizontal distances, elevation differences and individual point labels follows.

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Right/<Horizontal distance>: Elevation difference: Label:

Figure below shows a significance of the horizontal distance (A1, A2, ...) and elevation difference (B1, B2, ...). If you want to move a target point, you would enter »0« for horizontal distance and a new elevation of target point for elevation difference according to a terrain.

Drawing:

AXIS A1

B1

A2

B2

TARGET POINT

Figure: Defining cross-section step-by-step.

This function enables also data input jump between the left and right side while the profile look can be seen in special window.

If you want to end your profile entering/saving, click Enter and additionally confirm your exit.

When you finished with data saving, you can enter the points of calculated cross-section into the drawing:

Enter profile points to drawing Yes/No <Yes>:

Drawn points are linked by a 3D-polyline lying on the 10_CONSTR_LINES layer.

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Command name: SAVE DIRECTION ANGLES -> ANG

Command code: 11P5

Icon: None

Task: Saving of direction angles to an ANG file

Input data: Output file name, starting station

Output data: ANG file

Layers:

See also commands:

With this command, you can save the station and direction angles between selected layout points to a ANG file. After starting the command, enter the name of the ANG output file. Then select the starting station in kilometers and meters. Direction angles are measured in a clockwise direction, starting from north (i.e. north is ‘0.00’, east ’90.00’ degrees) and are saved in the form of decimal degrees. The station and direction angles of the last selected point are also displayed on screen. After selecting all desired points press ENTER to stop the command execution.

Example of the ANG file:

* STA_KM STA_M DIRECTION_ANG 0 0.00 79.7219 0 26.21 33.1556 0 41.56 81.6390 0 53.85 64.2803 0 80.78 55.7700

ANG file format:

See Appendix A.

Command name: X Y Z EXTRACT FROM ENTITIES -> XYZ

Command code: 11P6

Icon:

Task: Extracting the X, Y and Z coordinates of selected 3D AutoCAD entities to a QS file

Input data: Output file name and entities, which coordinates are to be extracted

Output data: XYZ file

Layers: Layers

See also commands: 11K1

The X Y Z Extract from Entities -> XYZ (11P6) command is a useful tool for extracting the X, Y, and Z coordinates of characteristic 3D AutoCAD entity points to a XYZ file that can be opened with 11F1.

The extracted point coordinates can be used, for example, to replace existing three-dimensional AutoCAD points in a drawing with corresponding CGS points. To achieve this:

1. First select the points to be extracted in the drawing.

2. Now the points are ready to be read in again as CGS points with the Input points <- XYZ (11F1) command.

After starting the X Y Z Extract from Entities -> QS (11P6) command, the following dialog box opens:

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The XYZ Extract from Entities dialog box explanation:

Output file, XYZ filename the name of the XYZ output file.

Drawing entities, Select entities

click this button to select the AutoCAD entities from which the coordinates are to be extracted (It can be any AutoCAD entity – LINE, PLINE, ARC, TEXT, etc.). If the selected elements are three-dimensional, the Z coordinate will be equal to the elevation value of the element’s characteristic point. Otherwise, the Z coordinate will be ‘null’ (‘0’).

The format of a XYZ file: See Appendix A.

Command name: X Y Z EXTRACT FROM TEXT -> TXT

Command code: 11P7

Icon:

Task: Extracting the X, Y, and Z coordinates from TEXT elements and saving them to a TXT file

Input data: Output file name and elements, from which coordinates are to be extracted

Output data: TXT file

Layers:

See also commands: 11C1,11F1

This command extracts the X, Y and Z coordinates from text entities – i.e. from point elevation labels – to a TXT file. This command is very useful if you want to extract the X, Y, and Z coordinates from a two-dimensional AutoCAD drawing where all elevations are labeled with AutoCAD TEXT elements (usually to create a digital terrain model).

After selecting the X Y Z Extract from Text -> TXT (11P7) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The XYZ Extract from Text dialog box explanation:

Output file, TXT filename enter the file name, to which the coordinates from the TEXT elements are to be saved.

Drawing entities, Select entities

click this button to select the TEXT elements,

Distance from real point enter the difference (in X and Y coordinates) between the coordinates of the TEXT element and the actual position of the point (this difference is usually equal for all points).

The result of the command execution is a TXT file. See example below:

* EAST NORTH Z 513767.418 45690.729 171.47 513784.369 45691.865 170.86 513795.056 45691.762 171.69 513788.171 45688.059 171.74 513780.172 45678.180 171.66 513774.404 45686.169 171.59 513795.664 45666.311 172.72 513777.783 45671.906 172.03 513771.194 45677.937 171.72 513771.091 45669.359 171.86 513776.294 45667.018 172.09

A TXT file can be converted into a XYZ file with the Convert columns -> XYZ (11C1) command or read directly into QuickSurf using the Read points from file (11L2) command.

You can find a more detailed description of the TXT file format in appendix A.

Command name: GENERATE XYZ FILE FROM BLOCK / POINT -> XYZ

Command code: 11P8

Icon:

Task: Coordinate extract from points / blocks with attributes

Input data: blocks with attributes

Output data: XYZ file type


The 11P8 command has been made in order to save points' data to the XYZ file from the blocks with attributes representing the geodetical points and which were not necessarily made by the program.

The following condition is involved when using the 11P8 command condition: Points in drawing should be drawn as blocks with attributes each representing different item: one terrain elevation, other attribute and the third number or point label.

When you run the 11P8 command, you select in drawing a typical point (block with attributes). In a dialog box you define the attributes representing a terrain elevation and a point number or a point label. Then you select points to be saved to the XYZ file and define a name of output file.

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It happens frequently that you need to deal with drawings haven’t been made by the CGS plus programs or they have been made by some older version of the program. Points (blocks with attributes) drawn by other programs are not compatible with CGS points. It can be useful to first save such points data to the XYZ file and then read them again by using the Input points <-XYZ (11F1) command.

Command name: TRANSLATE XYZ -> LON

Command code: 11P9

Icon: None

Task: Converting an XYZ file to a LON file

Input data: XYZ file

Output data: LON file

See also commands: 11F1,11F9,11P2

With this command, you can calculate a longitudinal section directly from a XYZ file and save it to a LON file. You can also specify the starting station of the calculated section. If the file contains more file sections, the base station can be used:

• For every file section separately, or

• Only for the first file section, meaning that the starting station of the next file section will be equal to the ending station of the previous file section.

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After selecting the Translate XYZ -> LON (11P9) command, the following dialog box appears:

The Translate XYZ-> LON dialog box explanation:

Input file, XYZ file the name of the XYZ input file to be converted

List of sections a list of existing file sections in the XYZ input file

Output file, LON file the name of the LON output file with the calculated longitudinal section.

Base station enter the station at the beginning of the longitudinal section.

Settings choose how the entered base section will be interpreted by the command (see also above).

XYZ and LON file formats: See Appendix A.

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2.16. 11Q - List of Elements

With the commands from this command group you can create lists of point and longitudinal elements from the layout plan. Point elements include elements such as lamps, trees, parking places while longitudinal elements include curbstones, conduits, etc.

Command name: DEFINE POINT-ELEMENTS

Command code: 11Q1

Icon: None

Task: Defining point elements to be included in a list

Input data: Element label

Output data: Selected point elements

Layers: 10_CONSTR_LINES

See also commands: 11Q

By using this command you can define ("record") point elements to be included in a list. Generally, elements can be divided into two groups:

• Elements with symbols or blocks (e.g., trees, lamps, and ditches). Creating a list of such elements is easy because they are already defined – you only have to select the elements you want to include in the list.

• Elements without explicit symbols (e.g., parking places, houses and water scoops); such elements have to be defined ("recorded") prior to making a list.

While selecting the desired elements, an AutoCAD circle or any other symbol is drawn. After starting the Define Point-elements (11Q1) command, the following command line options appear:

Symbol= ACAD_POINT Symbol/<Element label>:

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If you select the Symbol option, the Select symbol dialog box appears:

Here you can choose any other symbol instead of AutoCAD’s point symbol. Now the symbol label has to be defined. A symbol label is an arbitrary string – for example, a short description of the element ("lime_tree", "parking_place", etc.) Point elements can be defined individually, but the program also allows changing the labels of multiple existing elements after selecting the Group option.

Command name: EXTRACT POINT-ELEMENTS -> LIS

Command code: 11Q2

Icon: None

Task: Saving defined point elements to a LIS file

Input data: File name, point elements

Output data: Saved LIS output file

Layers:


This command saves all defined point elements in a LIS file. After starting the command, you first have to select the elements to be included in the list. Then the following dialog box opens:

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The Extract Point-elements dialog box explanation:

Output file, Filename enter the name of the LIS output file.

List of sections a list of appropriate/existing file sections



Selected elements a list of point elements, including the appropriate label and number of elements in the selected area.

LIS file format:

Command name: DEFINE LONGITUDINAL-ELEMENTS

Command code: 11Q3

Icon: None

Task: Defining longitudinal-element labels

Input data: Label, longitudinal element

Output data: Labels of selected longitudinal elements

Layers:


See Appendix A.

A list of longitudinal elements can be created to determine the length of conduits, streets, curbstones, ground signs, etc. These elements have already been inserted into the layout plan with the help of line, pline and arc entities. However, in order to create a list, you will have to assign a label to each longitudinal element. An element label is an arbitrary string (e.g. "curbstone", "central_lane", and "sewer-pipe") and defines the type of the longitudinal element uniformly.

After starting the Define Longitudinal-elements (11Q3) command, you have to enter the element label to be assigned to the selected longitudinal elements. Longitudinal elements can be line, pline or arc entities.

Individual elements can only have one label. If you select an element several times, only the last label is stored.

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Command name: EXTRACT LONGITUDINAL-ELEMENTS -> LIS

Command code: 11Q4

Icon: None

Task: Saving selected longitudinal elements to a LIS file

Input data: File name, selected longitudinal elements

Output data: Saved LIS output file

Layers:


The lengths of longitudinal elements with a defined label can be saved in a LIN file with this command. After starting the Extract Longitudinal-elements -> LIS (11Q4) command, you have to select the longitudinal elements. Then the following dialog box opens:

The Extract Longitudinal-elements dialog box Explanation:

Output file, Filename enter the name of the LIS output file

Existing sections if you choose an existing file in Output file, the appropriate file sections are listed here

Existing sections, Section name


Selected longitudinal elements

a list of longitudinal-element labels and the total lengths of the appropriate element types

LIS file format:

See Appendix A.

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Command name: VERIFY ELEMENT

Command code: 11Q5

Icon: None

Task: Displaying a list of point and longitudinal element labels

Input data: Point or longitudinal elements

Output data: List of element labels

Layers:


Using this command, you can display a list of element labels defined with one of the Define Point-elements (11Q1) or Define Longitudinal-elements (11Q3) commands. This command only displays a list of the labels – to change a specific label, use the 11Q1/11Q3 commands.

Command name: MEASURE LONGITUDINAL-ELEMENTS LENGTH

Command code: 11Q6

Icon: None

Task: Measure length of selected longitudinal elements

Input data: Elements in the drawing

Output data: Element length

Layers:


Using this command, you can measure length of selected AutoCAD elements in the drawing. Elements can be LINE, PLINE or ARC. After starting the command, you have to select the element. Length of selected element and common length of selected elements are written in the command line.

2.17. 11R - Output, Parcels

The Parcels command group contains commands for defining, editing and erasing parcels and for defining individual parcel attributes. Defined parcels make a good basis for the further processing of the layout drawing under AutoCAD MAP.

Command name: DEFINE PARCEL-ATTRIBUTES

Command code: 11R1

Icon:

Task: Defining attributes of an individual parcel

Input data: Parcel attributes

Output data: Modified PP_DEFUN.PRP??? file

Layers:

See also commands: See also other

Layout – 111

You can associate each parcel with a user-defined set of attributes (e.g. ownership, cadastral community and share). After selecting the Define parcel-attributes (11R1) command, the following dialog box, in which you can edit (i.e. add, erase and rename) individual parcel attributes, opens:

The Edit parcel-attributes dialog box explanation:

Attributes a list of already defined attributes.

Add click this button to add a new attribute.

Erase click this button to remove a defined attribute.

Rename click this button to rename a defined attribute.

Command name: DEFINE PARCEL

Command code: 11R2

Icon:

Task: Defining a new parcel

Input data: Boundary points of the parcel

Output data: Parcel in the drawing

Layers: 10_PARCELS

See also commands: 11R

With this command, you can define a new parcel in the drawing. To define a new parcel, enter the parcel number and select the appropriate boundary points – the program draws the parcel boundaries and labels them with their lengths. When all boundary points have been defined, the position of the parcel number has to be selected. Before the new parcel definition is completed, the following dialog box opens:

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The Parcel: 1000 dialog box explanation:

Boundary points a list of defined boundary points.

Perimeter the perimeter of the parcel.

Attribute-visibility activate this check box to make the attributes visible in the drawing.

Attributes click this button to open a new dialog box, allowing the definition of the parcel attributes.

Use the Parcel attributes dialog box for the definition of parcel attributes:

Figure: Parcels.

Layout – 113

Command name: EDIT PARCEL

Command code: 11R3

Icon:

Task: Modifying of parcel attributes and boundary points

Input data: Parcel

Output data: Edited parcel data

Layers:


With this command, you can modify the data of defined parcels. The command allows you to add new boundary points or remove existing ones. If you would like to add a new boundary point, just select the point, after which the new one will be inserted, click Add and define the new point.

After starting the Edit parcel (11R3) command, you have to select the parcel to be modified. The Parcel: 1000 dialog box appears:

The Parcel: 1000 dialog box explanation:

Boundary points a list of defined boundary points

Boundary points, Add click this button to add a new boundary point to the list.

Boundary points, Remove

click this button to remove an existing boundary point from the list.

Perimeter the perimeter of the parcel.

Attribute-visibility activate this check box to make the attributes visible in the drawing.

Attributes click this button to open a new dialog box, allowing the definition of the parcel attributes.

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Command name: ERASE PARCEL

Command code: 11R4

Icon:

Task: Erasing of a defined parcel together with its elements

Input data: Parcel

Output data:

Layers:


This command allows you to erase a parcel from the layout drawing. Just select the appropriate parcel number – the program removes all elements belonging to the parcel (boundary lines and length labels) automatically. If another parcel shares one or more boundary lines with the erased one, only the boundary lines of the erased parcel will be removed from the drawing.

Command name: OUTPUT ATTRIBUTE VALUES TO DWG

Command code: 11R5

Icon:

Task: Modifying the output of the parcel attributes

Input data: Parcel

Output data:

Layers:


Using this command you can modify the visibility of individual attributes in the drawing and modify the size of their output text. After starting the Output attribute values to DWG (11R5) command, select the parcels and the attribute output of which you would like to modify. The Output attribute values to DWG dialog box appears:

The Output attribute values to DWG dialog box explanation:

Attributes a list of defined parcel attributes together with their visibility flags and their size.

Properties, Visible click this button to make the selected attribute visible.

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Properties, Invisible click this button to make the selected attribute invisible.

Properties, Text-height click this button to modify the size of the attribute's text.

Figure: Parcel with visible attributes.

Command name: SAVE PARCELS FROM DRAWING TO FILE -> PAR

Command code: 11R6

Icon:

Task: Saving the selected parcels in a PAR file

Input data: Parcels

Output data: PAR file with saved parcels

Layers:


With this command, the defined parcel data and attributes can be saved to a PAR file. After starting the Save parcels from drawing to file -> PAR (11R6) command, the following dialog box appears:

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The Parcels output dialog box explanation:

Output file, PAR Output file enter the name of the file to which the parcel data will be saved.

List of selected parcels a list of the numbers of the selected parcels.

List of selected parcels, Add click this button to add a new parcel number to the list.

List of selected parcels, Remove click this button remove a parcel number from the list.

Data output select what parcel data will be saved (boundary point coordinates, boundary lengths, and attributes).

PAR file format

The contents of the PAR file depend on the settings. A parcel record in the file consists of the following three parts:

: See Appendix A.

1. Parcel number, area, and perimeter;

2. Parcel attributes;

3. Parcel boundary points and fronts.

Example of the PAR file:

Parcel number: 102 Area: 551.558 Perimeter: 95.952 OWNER Janez Kovač COMMUNITY Ljubljana CC Vič COMMENT Point X Y Dist. 57 42905.308 72538.537 0.000 64 42923.265 72559.474 27.583 63 42903.088 72568.838 22.244 58 42887.769 72547.063 26.624 57 42905.308 72538.537 19.502

Command name: SAVE PARCELS TO FILE ->OBD

Command code: 11R7

Icon:

Task: Saving chosen parcels data to OBD file

Input data: parcels

Output data: OBD file with saved parcels

Layers:

See also commands: 11R6

Alternatively, parcels data can be saved to a file of OBD type. In Slovenia, this is a well- known form used for denoting parcels.

When you run the Save parcels to file ->OBD command, you specify the name of output file and select the area where parcels to be saved in the OBD file are situated.

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OBD file structure: see Appendix A.

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2.18. 11S - Calculate volumes with prism method

Command name: CALCULATE VOLUMES

Command code: 11S

Icon:

Task: Calculating volumes under selected area

Input data: 3DFACE elements

Output data: VOL, D45 in D58 files

See also commands: 11F1,11F9,11P2

This command is intended for calculating volumes under selected area. Area usually consists of many triangles that are topologically arranged. Volume is calculated up to a selected reference height. Numbering of triangles and area individual points is possible and the calculation results can be saved in the files of various forms.

When you run this command, you first select triangles for which you want to calculate volumes. A dialog box opens in which you set all the parameters. It consists of two parts. In the first part you set calculation and drawing parameters while in the second one you set desired output files.

Each area has its own name which is saved to the VOL output file. Reference height stands for a height up to which the volume of each triangle is calculated.

During the process of volume calculation, each point and each triangle is uniformly numbered. Starting value of numbering can be set both for points and triangles. These values are then considered in a drawing and output files.

You can choose between the displaying of triangle labels and point labels. For labels you can select font, text height in mm and a layer on which labels will be drawn. As far as layers are concerned, you can choose between the existing ones or you can select a new one.

The second part of the settings includes output file(s) data:

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You can choose among the following output file types:

• VOL file,

• DA45 file,

• DA 58 file.

When you set all the necessary parameters, select triangles (3DFACE objects) in a drawing and click Enter. Result can be seen in a form of point and triangle labels and a suitable number of files. Eventually, the Final report dialog box appears:

In the upper dialog box you can see statistical values of volume calculation. You can edit individual files in Notepad simply by clicking Edit.

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File descriptions

VOL file

VOL file consists of two sections. First section is called #POINTS and comprises labels and coordinates for all points of some area. The #POINTS section form is as follows:

• LABEL

• X

• Y

• Z

The #TRIANGLES section comprises data of each individual triangle:

• TRIANGLE LABEL

• FIRST POINT LABEL

• SECOND POINT LABEL

• THIRD POINT LABEL

• MIDDLE HEIGHT

• AREA2D

• AREA3D

• VOLUME ABOVE REFERENCE HEIGHT

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Example of VOL file:

* Calculating prism volumes * Surface: 1 * Reference height: 0.00 # Points * Nr. X Y Z 1 397562.97 44825.39 17.21 2 397526.75 44804.01 16.20 3 397558.59 44810.09 16.82 4 397503.83 44806.90 16.00 5 397554.80 44796.39 16.74 6 397526.21 44783.98 16.00 7 397550.44 44779.26 16.57 # Triangles * Nr. Point 1 Point 2 Point 3 M_HEIGHT AREA2D AREA3D VOLUME 1 1 2 3 16.747 230.335 230.413 3857.419 2 1 4 2 16.472 297.388 297.513 4898.672 3 3 2 5 16.589 206.545 206.583 3426.442 4 2 6 5 16.315 282.870 282.949 4614.924 5 5 6 7 16.436 217.896 217.961 3581.332 * Total: 1235.033 1235.420 20378.789

D45 file

The D45 file is a fixed format file comprising data of point coordinates. The D45 file structure is as follows:

Column Value 1-2 "45" constant 3-9 point number 10 not defined 11-20 X coordinate 21-30 Y coordinate 31-40 height

Values for X and Y coordinates and height are saved without decimal points and with accuracy of three decimal places.

Example of D45 file:

45 1 397562969 44825390 17212 45 2 397526752 44804010 16205 45 3 397558593 44810087 16824 45 4 397503830 44806901 16000 45 5 397554797 44796389 16739 45 6 397526209 44783985 16000 45 7 397550443 44779256 16569

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D58 file

The D45 file is a fixed format file comprising data of triangles. The D58 file structure is as follows:

Column Value 1-2 "58" constant 3-7 not defined 8-9 reference height 10-16 not defined 17-20 triangle number 21-23 not defined 24-30 first triangle number 31-33 not defined 34-40 first triangle number 41-43 not defined 44-50 first triangle number 51-60 not defined 61-66 neighboring triangle number on edge 1-2 67-73 neighboring triangle number on edge 2-3 74-80 neighboring triangle number on edge 3-1

Topological explanation of columns 61-80:

T1_12=0 T1_23=0

T1_31=2

T2_31=1

T2_14=0 T2_43=0

Example of D58 file: 58 10 1 1 2 3 58 10 2 1 4 2 58 10 3 3 2 5 58 10 4 2 6 5 58 10 5 5 6 7

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Command name: READ REB DA 45 AND DA 58 FILES

Command code: 11S2

Icon: none

Task: drawing of 3D face elements on a basis of REB DA 45 and DA 58 files

Input data: D45 and D58 files

Output data: 3D face elements

Layers: defined via dialog box

See also commands: 11S1

This command is intended for drawing of 3D face elements from DA 45 and DA 58 files. DA 45 and DA 58 files can be saved by using the 11U2 command or any other program supporting both REB DA 45 and DA 58 files. File descriptions are included with description of the 11U2 command. After invoking the command, dialog box opens with the DA 45 tab on.

The Read REB files dialog box explanation:

Input file, DA 45 >> DA 45 file type containing triangle vertices data

Layer for points layer to which points are drawn (triangle vertices)

Point labels switch on/off drawing of point labels

Height [mm] label height in mm

Style style in which point labels will be drawn

Layer layer to which point labels will be drawn

Using the DA 58 tab, you can set parameters for inserting of triangles (3D face elements).

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The Enter REB file dialog box explanation:

Input file, DA 58 >> DA 58 file containing triangle data

Layer for triangels layer to which trangles are drawn (3D face elements)

Triangle labels switch on/off drawing of triangle labels

Height [mm] label height in mm

Style style in which triangle labels will be drawn

Layer layer to which triangle labels are drawn

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2.19. 11T - Interpolations

The Interpolations group contains commands for interpolating between different input data: existing points, slopes and elevations. Interpolations can be very useful for environmental and town planning, the height assessment of individual crossroad points, etc.

Command name: INTERPOLATE P1, SLOPE, P2 > E2

Command code: 11T1

Icon:

Task: Calculating elevations between two points

Input data: Two points, one slope

Output data: Height of the second point

See also commands: 11T

With the Interpolate P1, Slope, P2 > E2 (11T1) command you can determine the height of the second point when the position and height of the first and the slope and position of the second point are known. The new point can be inserted into the drawing. After selecting the 11T1 command, the following dialog box appears:

The Interpolate P1, Slope, P2 > E2 dialog box explanation:

First point the data of the first point; the point can be selected from the drawing or specified with the help of its coordinates.

Second point the data of the second point; its height is updated automatically when one of the other parameters is changed.

Slope the slope between both points in percentages (%).

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Command name: INTERPOLATE P1, E1, P2, E2, P3 > E3

Command code: 11T2

Icon:

Task: Calculating the height of a point

Input data: Three points

Output data: Height of the point


With this command, you can calculate the height of a point (i.e. the third point), lying between two known points (i.e. the first two points). After starting the 11T2 command, the Interpolate P1, E1, P2, E2, P3 > E3 dialog box opens. In this dialog box you can define all three coordinates of the two known points and the X and Y coordinates of the third point. The program calculates the elevation of the third point. If you modify one of the dialog box parameters, the elevation of the third point is automatically recalculated. All specified points can also be inserted into the drawing.

Command name: INTERPOLATE P1, E1, P2, E2, E3 > P3

Command code: 11T3

Icon:

Task: Calculating the position of a point

Input data: Two points and the height of a third point

Output data: Position of the point


You can use this command to interpolate the position of a point from its height and the positions and heights of two other points. After selecting the 11T3 command, the following dialog box appears:

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The Interpolate P1, E1, P2, E2, E3 > P3 dialog box explanation:

First point this is the data of the first point; the point can be selected from the drawing or specified with the help of its coordinates.

Second point this is the data of the second point; the point can be selected from the drawing or specified with the help of its coordinates.

Third point enter the height of the third point; the X and Y coordinates are calculated automatically.

Command name: INTERPOLATE P1, SLOPE 1, P2, SLOPE 2 > P3

Command code: 11T4

Icon:

Task: Calculating the coordinates of a new point

Input data: Two points, two slopes

Output data: New point


This command allows you to interpolate the position and elevation of a point from the coordinates of two other known points and two slopes. The necessary source points can be selected directly from the drawing or specified with the help of their respective coordinates. The results of the interpolation are all three coordinates of the third point. The point can also be inserted into the drawing.

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Command name: INTERPOLATE ELEVATIONS BETWEEN TWO POINTS

Command code: 11T5

Icon:

Task: Calculating new points with constant height differences between two known points

Input data: Two points, height-interpolation step

Output data: Interpolated points between two known points

Layers: 10_INTERPOLATIONS


The Interpolate elevations between two points (11T5) command interpolates intermediate points between two known points with a pre-defined height-interpolation step. The results of the command are new–interpolated – points. The two basic points can be of any type (detail, traverse, etc.).

In other words, the program interpolates new points on ‘rounded’ heights, defined by the size of the height-interpolation step (i.e. on equidistant intervals). The new points are interpolated between two adjacent points in direction Z. You can use this command to display the planned project state with the help of a dimensioned projection (i.e.with planned contours).

After starting the 11T5 command, you can select the Settings option to open the following dialog box:

The Interpolation dialog box explanation:

Settings, Counter the number of the first interpolated point

Interpolation-step the height difference between two adjacent interpolated points in meters.

Point insertion the interpolated points can be inserted into the drawing in 2D or 3D (the point heights are interpolated accordingly).

The new points are drawn on the INTERPOLATIONS layer. The Interpolate elevations between two points (11T5) command also allows interpolating points between more consecutive points.

Layout – 129

Figure: Interpolating elevations between two points.

Command name: INTERPOLATE ELEVATIONS BETWEEN THREE POINTS

Command code: 11T6

Icon:

Task: Calculating new points and contours between three known points

Input data: Three known points

Output data: New points and contours between three known points

Layers: 10_INTERPOLATIONS


This command is similar to the Interpolate elevations between two points (11T5) command. After selecting three points in the layout plan forming a triangle, the program interpolates heights along the triangle sides and connects points with identical elevations with a straight lines – a contour. The three basic points can be of any type (detail, traverse, etc.). Elevation labels and contours are drawn on the 10_INTERPOLATIONS layer.

Figure: Interpolating elevations between three points.

The Counter and Interpolation-step parameters are described under Interpolate elevations between two points (11T5).

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Command name: INTERPOLATE CONTOURS

Command code: 11T7

Icon:

Task: displaying of contours on a roadway

Input data: 3D left/right road edge polyline

Output data: drawn contours

Layers: 10_INTER_CONTOURS

See also commands:21P1

This command is intended for displaying contours on a roadway. You need to draw the roadway by using two polylines representing the left and right road edge of it. You can draw 3D road edge polylines using the 21P1 command found in the Axis module. The 11T7 command function result can be seen in the picture below.

You calculate contours by means of linear interpolation between the points both on the left and right side of a roadway. After invoking the command, select two 3D polylines representing the road edges. Then select an area where contours will be drawn or click ENTER if you want to draw contours for the complete polyline. After selecting polylines and areas, the following dialog box opens:

Insert elevation difference value between two contours in the Elevation difference field. Choose between 2D and 3D contour drawing in the Contour drawing method field. By clicking Settings >>, set a contour drawing method. The following dialog box opens:

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The Contour drawing – settings dialog box explanation:

Interval and elevation label size

Interval, arrow size and form

You can draw an arow in ACAD and save it to the DWG file. By clicking File >>, select a file containing an arrow drawing.

Interval and thickness of bold contours

There is a prepared arrow drawing in the folder where the program is installed. Filename is "pi_arrow.dwg".

Command name: SLOPE BETWEEN TWO POINTS

Command code: 11T8

Icon:

Task: Calculating and drawing of slope between two points

Input data: two points

Output data: output slope

Layers: current slope


The Slope between two points (11T8) command saves a slope between two specified/selected points that is calculated on the basis of elevation values of specified/selected points. When you run this command, the following appears in the command line:

Text height <1.50> /Number of decimal places<2>/ Line <No>/First point

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Legend:

• Text height set the text height for the slope,

• No. of decimals places set number of decimal places for the slope drawing,

• Line specify for simultaneous drawing of line between two specified points,

• First point specify first point for the slope definition.

Figure: Slope value between two points.

When you specify pairs of points, the slope value is written between them.

Command name: INTERPOLATION OF POINTS BETWEEN TWO PROFILES

Command code: 11T9

Icon:

Task: Interpolating of intermediate points between two recorded profiles

Input data: specified points in profiles and intermediate profile line

Output data: interpolated points on intermediate profile

Layers: 10_LAYOUTPTS

See also commands: 11F1, 2J4

This command is designed for interactive or automatic interpolation of points on the line lying between two already recorded profiles. Recording of points in profiles has a special importance. It is described in the Axes module and the corresponding Save sections from layout points -> LON, CRO, CAX (2J4) command.

First you need to have points drawn in at least two profiles and a profile line on which you would like to generate new points in an intermediate profile. Procedures can be as follows :

a) Interactive procedure - with the following dialog appearing in a command line :

• Specify profile line specify profile line,

• Profile label:1 specify new profile number. Profile no. is written in each interpolated point,

• Automatic/Counter<16>/First point: specify pairs of points on first …

• Second point and second profile. At the same time interpolated points are counted automatically.

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b) Automatic procedure - where program finds suitable interpolation points in two neighbouring profiles - with the following dialog appearing in a command line :

• Specify profile line specify profile line,

• Profile label: 2 specify new profile number.

• Automatic/Counter<20>/First point: A select option A

• Points at first side of profile line specify first group of points,

• Select objects: Other corner: 8 found

• Točke na drugi strani profilne linije … specify second group of points.

• Select objects: Other corner: 5 found

Figure: Two interpolated profiles.

The upper picture shows two interpolated profiles :

• Left profile that was interactively interpolated,

• Right profile that was automatically interpolated.

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2.20. 11U - Tools

Command name: SCALE AND ROTATE BLOCKS

Command code: 11U1

Icon:

Task: Scaling and rotating of AutoCAD blocks

Input data: AutoCAD blocks

Output data: AutoCAD blocks

See also commands: 11B

With the Scale and Rotate blocks (11U1) command you can enlarge/shrink and rotate any AutoCAD block in the layout drawing. This command is useful when you want to modify the size of topographical symbols not created with CGS plus programs or when you would like to rotate selected blocks/symbols (to achieve a better plan legibility).

After starting the 11U1 command and selecting the appropriate blocks, the following options appear in the command line:

Rotation/<Scale factor>:

A scale factor greater than 1 enlarges the objects and a scale factor between 0 and 1 shrinks them. The difference between the AutoCAD’s SCALE command and the Scale and Rotate blocks (11U1) command is that this command scales individual selected blocks using the input point as the center.

Selecting the "Rotation" option in the command line allows you to rotate the selected blocks for an arbitrary angle (in degrees). The degrees of the angle are measured starting east and continuing in the counter-clockwise direction. The difference between the AutoCAD’s ROTATE command and the 11U1 command is that this command rotates individual selected blocks around their input points.

Command name: DIMENSION EXISTING LINES

Command code: 11U2

Icon:

Task: Dimensioning of Line and Polyline entities in the drawing

Input data: Line in Polyline entities

Output data: Dimensioning labels


See also commands: 11U3

With this command you can easily dimension (i.e. calculate the length of) selected AutoCAD lines – LINE and PLINE entities. You can modify the number of decimal places and the text height of the dimensioning labels.

Layout – 135

The Dimension existing Lines dialog box explanation:

Select lines or plines click this button to select the Line and Polyline entities to be dimensioned in the drawing.

Settings, Text height enter the text height of the dimensioning labels in the drawing.

Settings, Number of decimal places

enter the number of decimals of the dimensioning labels.

Figure: Dimensioning labels on Polyline entities.

Command name: DRAW LINE WITH DIMENSION

Command code: 11U3

Icon:

Task: Drawing a line including a dimension line

Input data:

Output data: Dimensioned lines

Layers:

See also commands: 11U2, 11K8

This command is similar to the Dimension existing Lines (11U2) command, except that it also draws the lines that are to be dimensioned. You can modify the number of decimal places and the text height of the dimensioning labels and you can draw only dimensioning labels if needed.

Layout – 136

Figure: Lines drawn with dimensioning labels.

Command name: CHANGE PLINE ORIENTATION

Command code: 11U4

Icon:

Task: Inverting the orientation of a PLINE

Input data: 3D or 2D Polylines

Output data: Inversely oriented 3D polylines

Layers:

See also commands:

This function inverts the orientation of polyline vertices. You can use it, for example, to invert the direction of stations along a longitudinal axis. Select the polyline, the orientation of which you want to change. You can verify the orientation with AutoCAD’s PEDIT Edit Next command (etc.).

Figure: Polyline orientation.

Command name: RASTER MANAGER

Command code: 11U5

Task: selecting and editing raster image

Input data: raster image

Output data: DWG drawing

With the command group Raster manager (11U5) users can easily manage raster images. Commands for managing rasters are also available in the toolbox:

Raster manager has following commnads (from left to right):

• attach image (11U51),

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• attach images shown on screen (11U52),

• [detach image (11U53) – this commnad is not in toolbox, but it is available in the menu],

• detach image by picking inner point (11U54),

Then there are following commands from command group on/off image:

• Image on/off by picking inner point (11U55),

• Image on/off with fence selection (11U56),

• Image on/off with window selection (11U57),

• Image on/off with window polygon selection (11U58).

EXAMPLE: Turn off image based on shown line.

EXAMPLE: Turn on image based on shown line.

It is similar as turn on/off based on rectangle or polygon (polyline).

As third and last set of commands we have commands for loading and unloading images from drawing:

• Image load/unload by picking inner point (11U59),

• Image load/unload with fence selection(11U5A),

• Image load/unload with window selection (11U5B),

• Image load/unload with window polygon selection (11U5C).

Load/unload image works same way as on/off image.

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Command name: LEGEND

Command code: 11U7

Task: insert legend of symbols into the drawing

Input data: blocks that will be inserted into the legend

Output data: legend block

The Legend command is used to insert the legend into the drawing. A legend is composed form symbols (AutoCAD blocks) and descriptions.

LegendBush

Concrete

Field

Riprap

After selecting the command, the following dialog box appears:

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The list of items has four columns. The block is given in the Block name column. The Layer column specifies where the block will be inserted.

To add a legend item at the end of the list click on *Add block*. A combo box with all blocks available in the drawing will open. Select the desired block. Then, change layer for the item by clicking over the layer column, and type the description and spacing in the respective columns.

To add a legend item before a given item right-click its name and select Add from the floating menu. To delete an item, right-click it and select Delete from the context menu.

To change an item’s property, click on the desired column and select the property value form the combo box (Block name, Layer) or type it (Description, Distance).

Documents

2 Plateia 2011 ENG Layout