PRODUCT FOCUS
AutoCAD Civil 3D 2013
Right-click on EG and select Create Reference (see Figure 8). We are also going to reference in one or both of the alignments. Notice under the Prospector tab your surface shows up but has a small arrow image indicating that the surface has been referenced into your drawing using a data shortcut (Figure 9).
Figure 6: Select the shortcuts
We are now going to our next drawing within the current project and reference in the surface. In the Prospector tab, ensure that the data shortcuts points to the correct folder. Expand the selections as shown in Figure 7 and notice the objects we can reference.
Figure 9: Data shortcut indicator
I can now have Justin complete the final grades and after we add the alignments I can have Qua and Laurie work on the profiles.
eTransmit Data Shortcuts Projects that contain data shortcuts can be compiled and sent to clients, reviewers, and other members of the team using the Civil 3D eTransmit command. With eTransmit, all of the referenced files including data shortcuts (XML files) will be packaged into the zip file. This will eliminate errors when others are reviewing your design. It is important to include all files when sending off to outside sources for review.
Conclusion Data Shortcuts in Civil 3D are a very important part of collaboration in project design teams. During my career I have realized that working together in a team is the key to a successful design—utilizing the skills of everyone involved to produce a high quality product at a lower cost.
Figure 7: Expand the selections
Sam Lucido is a CAD Services Manager with Haley and Aldrich, Inc. He has over 20 years of experience involving design, user support, and customization. Sam is professionally certified in AutoCAD 2011-2013 and recently taught his first class at Autodesk University. He uses his vast knowledge about AutoCAD to help provide support to the engineering and CAD teams with monthly tip sheets and WebEx trainings. You can find him at CADProTips.com and he can also be reached at slucido@haleyaldrich.com
Figure 8: Create the References 42
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August 2013