Microstation - Learn 2D and 3D CAD design

In this course, we will learn the basics of Microstation. Starting with lectures, we will go through 27 lectures in order to completely understand all the basics. Once lectures are completed, 15 exercises will be completed one by one that will lead to the final project. The project is for student to complete in all respects; however, 10 lectures are added after exercise in case student wants to complete the project with aid of these lectures.

#AulaGEO

PHASE - 1 The tools and commands

Lesson 1 - Introduction: In this lesson, we will have a short introduction of software “Microstation” by getting a little know how about this software, its capabilities and over all usage.
Lesson 2 - Interface : In this session, we will see the basic interface of Microstation, learning some basic points to hit in case we need to perform specific functions and access different commands.
Lesson 3 – Keyboard shortcuts: In this session, we will learn some hot keys commonly used in Microstaiton. The purpose of showing these keys in start of course is to make students aware of these keys so that they could use through out the course and learn well.

Basic menu functionalities

Lesson 4 – Common Toolbar: In this session, we will learn about the very basic and common tool bar of Microstation as it is necessary to understand before we could proceed to next list of toolbars
Lesson 5 – Q Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “Q” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “Q” respectively.
Lesson 6 – W Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “W” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “W” respectively.
Lesson 7 – E Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “E” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “E” respectively.
Lesson 8 – R Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “R” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “R” respectively.
Lesson 9 – T Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “T” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “T” respectively.
Lesson 10 – A Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “A” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “A” respectively.
Lesson 11 – S Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “S” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “S” respectively.
Lesson 12 – D Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “D” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “D” respectively.
Lesson 13 – F Tools: In this session, we will learn different tools and commands available in category of “F” as these can be accessed with keyboard shortcut of “F” respectively.

Advanced commands

Lesson 14 – Editing Tools : In this session, we will how to edit and modify the geometries or primitives drawn using tools and commands learnt in previous sessions.

Lesson 15 – Level Manager: In this session, we will learn how to add, remove and apply different levels using level manager. It is sometimes referred as layers too.
Lesson 16 – Array: n this session, we will learn how to create different types of arrays in Microstation like linear, polar or rectangular.
Lesson 17 – Move Parallel: In this session, we will learn how to offset a specific line, arc or a complete element. We can simply move a specific element or even copy at certain distance from reference point
Lesson 18 – Dimensions: In this session, we will learn how to dimension different lines, arcs and ultimately give specific style dimension to entire element.
Lesson 19 – Snap Toolbar: In this session, we will learn how to use snap toolbar as there are different very important snaps which can be used to create accurate geometries in no time like mid point snap, intersect snap and bisector etc.
Lesson 20 – DWG Conversion: In this session, we will learn how to convert Autodesk AutoCAD file to Microstation format.
Lesson 21 – PDF Conversion: In this session, we will learn how to convert Adobe PDF file to Microstation format.
Lesson 22 – Excel Conversion: In this session, we will learn how to convert Microsoft Excel sheet to Microstation format and link it for future changes.
Lesson 23 – New Model: In this session, we will learn how to create a new model.
Lesson 24 – New Sheet: In this session, we will learn how to create a new sheet.
Lesson 25 – Title Block: In this session, we will learn how to create a title block.
Lesson 26 – Plot: In this session, we will learn how to print or plot a specific sheet and understand the basics of pen table.

Commands requested by students

Lesson 27 – Hatch: In this session, we will learn how to use hatch command in detail

PHASE 2 - Exercises building an environment

Exercise 1 – Cooking Range :In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view of cooking range.
Exercise 2 – Kitchen Shelf :In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view kitchen shelf.
Exercise 3 – Cupboard Views :In this exercise, we will create 2D top view and front view of cupboards.
Exercise 4 – Kitchen Appliances : In this exercise, we will view and access collection of kitchen appliances.
Exercise 5 – Dining Table :In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view of dining table.
Exercise 6 – Sofa Chair Set : In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view of sofa chair set.
Exercise 7 – Auxiliary Furniture: In this exercise, we will view and access collection of auxiliary furniture.
Exercise 8 – Bed :In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view of bed.
Exercise 9 – Beds Collection: In this exercise, we will view and access collection of beds.
Exercise 10 – Bathtub: In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view of bathtub.
Exercise 11 – Washroom WC: In this exercise, we will create a 2D top view of washroom WC.
Exercise 12 – Washroom Accessories: In this exercise, we will view and access collection of washroom accessories.
Exercise 13 – Cars : In this exercise, we will view and access collection of cars.
Exercise 14 – DIY Project: In this exercise, we will view a 2D layout with different areas and furniture. Students must recreate this project in order to fully implement all the tools and commands learnt throughout the course. In case students cannot create it correctly, they can follow additional 10 lectures at end of this course to follow the creation of this project step-by-step.

Commands requested by students

Exercise 15 – Introduction to 3D: In this exercise, we will have an overview of three-dimensional primitives.

Additional Lecture 1 to Lecture 10

In these ten lectures, we will see step-by-step method to create the DIY project, i.e. 2D floor plan.

PHASE 3 - House Project

In this exercise, we will work with a 2D layout with different areas and furniture. Students must recreate this project to fully implement all the tools and commands learned throughout the course. In case students are not able to create it correctly, they can follow 10 additional lessons at the end of this course to follow the creation of this project step by step.

This is a new module added, which includes the 3D modeling tools using a house as example from the 2D lines to rendering.

Lecture 43:Create Cells
Lecture 44:Reference Lines
Lecture 45:Walls
Lecture 46:Doors
Lecture 47:Windows
Lecture 48:Boundary Walls
Lecture 49:Cell Placement
Lecture 50:Space Naming
Lecture 51:Hatching
Lecture 52:Dimensions

Lessons requested by students

Bulk export from microstation dgn files to dxf or dwg

PHASE 4 - Introduction to 3D Modeling - Mechanical piece

Lecture 54: Introduction
Lecture 55: User Interface and Navigation
Lecture 56: Keyboard Shortcuts
Lecture 57: Design File
Lecture 58: Primitive Solids (E Tools)
Lecture 59: Element Handles, Draw on Solid & Modify Tools
Lecture 60: Solid by Extrusion (R Tool)
(Vista previa habilitada)
Lecture 61: Solid by Revolution (R Tool)
Lecture 62: Solid by Extrusion Along (R Tool)
Lecture 63: Solid by Thicken Surface (R Tool)
Lecture 64: Linear Solid (R Tool)
Lecture 65: Boolean Tools - Unite | Intersect | Subtract
Lecture 66: Trim Solids
Lecture 67: Cut Solids by Curves
Lecture 68: Chamfer and Fillets
Lecture 69: Mechanical Model - Sprocket
Lecture 70:3D to 2D Conversion
Lecture 71:2D Views Sheet from 3D Model
Lecture 72: Section Views - Volume Clipping

PHASE 5 - 3D modeling - 3D house project

Lecture 73: Introduction
Lecture 74: User Interface and Navigation
Lecture 75: Keyboard Shortcuts
Lecture 76: Base with Wall Creation & Learn Extrude Command
Lecture 77: Window Space 1 & Learn Copy, Move, Snap Command
Lecture 78: Window Space 2 & Learn Subtract Command
Lecture 79: Door Space 2 & Learn Union Command
Lecture 80: Widow Creation/ Placement & Learn Rotate Command
Lecture 81: Exhaust Creation/ Placement & Learn Path Array Command
Lecture 82: Door Creation & Learn Cut Solid by Curve Command
Lecture 83: Door Placement & Learn Scale Command
Lecture 84: Rooftop Creation & Learn Sweep Command
Lecture 85: Entrance Base Creation & Learn to manipulate coordinates
Lecture 86: Pillar Creation & Learn Polar Rotated Array
Lecture 87: Importing Models via 3D Warehouse & Other Formats
Lecture 88: Boundary Wall and Floor Creation
Lectura 89: Presentation Modes
Lecture 90: Apply Material to Model
Lecture 91: Light Manager and Render Model

Lessons requested by students

Cell edition

Editing tools question

PHASE 6: Terrains using Microstation

Working with Terrain

Lecture 94: Terrain - xml file import
Lecture 95: Terrain - element information
Lecture 96: Terrain - display and adjustment
Lecture 97: Terrain - contour labeling
Lectura 98: Terrain - contours spots

Working with isometric designs

Lecture 99: Isometric - 3d model with respective 2D views

Lecture 100: Isometric - dimensioning isometric views
Lecture 101: Isometric - export each 2D view to different file
Lecture 102: Isometric - views to new sheet layouts

Lessons requested by students

What´s new in Microstation software

What's inside

Learning objectives

Microstation commands
Plan drawing using levels
Dimmensions and printing layouts

Real work with an architectural design
Unique course. designed exactly with the commands and excercises of the best seller autocad course.

Microstation commands
Plan drawing using levels
Dimmensions and printing layouts
Real work with an architectural design
Unique course. designed exactly with the commands and excercises of the best seller autocad course.

Syllabus

PHASE - 1 The tools and commands

Introduction

Interface

Keyboard Shortcuts

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Begins with the fundamentals of Microstation, including interface, keyboard shortcuts, and basic menu functionalities, which is helpful for learners with little to no prior experience

Covers a wide range of 2D and 3D design aspects, from basic commands to advanced techniques like converting file formats and creating models, which is useful for expanding skill sets

Includes exercises focused on building an environment, such as kitchen shelves, furniture, and a DIY project, which allows learners to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios

Features a section dedicated to 3D modeling, including mechanical pieces and a 3D house project, which allows learners to explore advanced design concepts

Includes lessons requested by students, such as hatch commands, cell edition, and isometric designs, which ensures the course content is relevant and up-to-date

Teaches DWG conversion, which may be useful for learners who need to collaborate with others using different CAD software

Reviews summary

Microstation 2d/3d design basics

Según los estudiantes, este curso ofrece una sólida introducción a los fundamentos de Microstation, cubriendo exhaustivamente las herramientas 2D y los comandos esenciales. Muchos aprecian los ejercicios prácticos y los proyectos paso a paso, como el diseño de una casa y piezas mecánicas, que ayudan a aplicar los conocimientos. La inclusión de lecciones solicitadas por los alumnos sugiere un instructor atento. Sin embargo, algunos comentarios infieren que el ritmo puede ser rápido en ciertas secciones o que la cobertura 3D podría ser menos detallada que la 2D. Aunque es un buen punto de partida, los estudiantes más avanzados pueden encontrar que algunos temas avanzados son breves.

New lessons based on student requests.

"It's great that the instructor added lessons like Hatch and bulk export based on student questions."

"Seeing lessons like 'Cell edition' added shows the instructor is listening to feedback."

"The inclusion of requested topics is a positive sign of course evolution."

Provides a foundational understanding.

"As someone new to Microstation, I found this course to be an excellent starting point."

"It breaks down the basics in a way that's easy to follow if you're a beginner."

"This course gives you a necessary foundation before moving onto more complex tasks."

Hands-on work applying learned skills.

"Working through the architectural exercises like the kitchen and furniture was very practical."

"The house project was great for bringing everything together and seeing how the tools are used in a real scenario."

"Building the mechanical piece in 3D really helped solidify those concepts."

Strong focus on essential 2D commands.

"The course goes into great detail on all the basic 2D tools from Q to F, which is super helpful."

"I really got a solid understanding of the fundamental drawing and editing tools needed for 2D design."

"All the different tool categories were clearly explained, making it easy to learn the interface."

Potential issues with software updates.

"Using a slightly older version of Microstation than shown in the videos caused some minor confusion."

"Some interface elements seemed different due to software updates since the course was made."

"Be aware that Microstation updates, so the UI might look slightly different than the course shows."

Some sections move too quickly.

"Sometimes I felt the pace was a bit too fast, especially when introducing new concepts."

"Certain lectures moved very quickly, requiring me to pause and rewatch frequently."

"The transition between topics could feel abrupt at times."

3D sections less detailed than 2D.

"While the 3D parts are a good introduction, I feel they don't go as deep as the 2D sections."

"The 3D mechanical and house projects are helpful, but I would have liked more explanation on some commands."

"The course provides a basic overview of 3D modeling but leaves me wanting more advanced techniques."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Microstation - Learn 2D and 3D CAD design - AulaGEO with these activities:

Review CAD Fundamentals

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Solidify your understanding of CAD principles before diving into Microstation. This will make learning the software's specific commands and workflows easier.

Browse courses on 2D CAD

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Review basic geometric constructions.
Understand coordinate systems and units.
Familiarize yourself with common CAD terminology.

Mastering MicroStation

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Supplement your learning with a comprehensive guide to Microstation. This book will provide additional depth and breadth to the course material.

View Harnessing MicroStation V8I on Amazon

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Read the chapters relevant to the topics covered in the course.
Complete the exercises and tutorials in the book.
Use the book as a reference when working on your own Microstation projects.

Practice Basic Drawing Exercises

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Reinforce your understanding of Microstation tools by completing simple drawing exercises. This will improve your proficiency and speed.

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Recreate the cooking range exercise from the course using only the basic drawing tools.
Draw a series of lines, circles, and arcs using different input methods.
Practice using the snap toolbar to create accurate geometries.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Document Your Microstation Workflow

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Improve your understanding of Microstation by documenting your workflow for a specific task. This will help you identify areas for improvement and share your knowledge with others.

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Choose a specific task in Microstation, such as creating a title block or converting a DWG file.
Record the steps you take to complete the task.
Write a clear and concise description of each step.
Include screenshots or videos to illustrate the steps.

Explore Advanced Microstation Features

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Expand your knowledge of Microstation by exploring advanced features beyond the course scope. This will enhance your design capabilities.

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Find tutorials on creating parametric models in Microstation.
Learn about using Microstation's rendering engine to create photorealistic images.
Explore Microstation's capabilities for creating animations and walkthroughs.

Design a Simple 3D Model

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Apply your Microstation skills by designing a simple 3D model from scratch. This will solidify your understanding of 3D modeling techniques.

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Choose a simple object to model, such as a chair or a table.
Create a 3D model of the object using Microstation's solid modeling tools.
Add details to the model, such as textures and materials.
Render the model to create a realistic image.

BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Designers, Engineers, Contractors, and Facility Managers

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Gain a broader understanding of BIM principles and workflows. This book will provide valuable context for your Microstation skills.

View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon

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Read the sections on BIM workflows and collaboration.
Explore the case studies to see how BIM is used in real-world projects.
Consider how you can apply BIM principles to your own Microstation projects.

Career center

Learners who complete Microstation - Learn 2D and 3D CAD design - AulaGEO will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer-aided Design Drafter

A Computer Aided Design Drafter creates technical drawings and plans for a wide range of projects, often using software like Microstation. This course helps build a foundation in Microstation, covering the basics of the software through lectures and hands-on exercises. You will learn how to use various tools and commands, manage levels, create arrays, add dimensions, and convert files between different formats. The course also introduces 3D modeling, which is increasingly important in drafting. Learning to create cells, reference lines, walls, doors, and windows will give you a competitive edge as Computer Aided Design Drafter.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer-aided Design Drafter

Product Designer

A Product Designer designs and develops new products, from concept to manufacturing. This course helps build your skillset. The lectures and exercises provide a solid foundation in Microstation. You will learn how to create 2D drawings and 3D models. The course covers primitive solids, extrusion, and Boolean tools. You will also learn how to convert 3D models to 2D views, which can be helpful for creating technical drawings for manufacturing. These skills are highly useful as a Product Designer who uses Computer Aided Design software to create product designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Architectural Technician

An Architectural Technician assists architects in developing designs and preparing construction documents. This course helps build a foundation in using Microstation for architectural design. Through lectures and exercises, you will learn how to draw plans, manage levels, add dimensions, and create layouts for printing. The course also includes a house project where you will work with 2D layouts, create cells, reference lines, walls, doors, and windows. Furthermore, this course introduces 3D modeling, including creating elements like roofs and pillars. These skills are essential for Architectural Technicians working with Computer Aided Design software.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Technician

Mechanical Drafter

A Mechanical Drafter creates detailed drawings and plans for mechanical devices and machinery. This course helps build a foundation for mechanical drafting with Microstation. The course covers the basics of 2D drafting, including using editing tools, managing levels, and adding dimensions. You will gain experience with 3D modeling by learning how to create primitive solids, extrude shapes, and use Boolean tools. The course also includes a section on creating a mechanical model, converting 3D models to 2D views, and creating section views, which are all relevant skills for a Mechanical Drafter.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Drafter

Civil Engineering Technician

A Civil Engineering Technician assists civil engineers in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects. This course helps build a foundation in Microstation. You will learn how to use the software's interface, basic tools, and advanced commands for editing, managing levels, and creating arrays. The course also covers dimensions, snap toolbars, and file conversions, which may be useful for creating site plans and infrastructure designs. The lessons on terrains and isometric designs are particularly beneficial for Civil Engineering Technicians working on land development projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineering Technician

Interior designer

An Interior Designer plans and designs interior spaces for residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. This course may be useful as it can enhance your skills in using Microstation to create 2D and 3D models of interior spaces. The course teaches you how to draw plans, manage levels, and add dimensions. The exercises in building an environment focus on creating furniture layouts and interior elements. You will also learn 3D modeling skills, which are relevant for visualizing interior designs and creating presentations for clients. These skills are highly recommended for Interior Designers.

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Building Information Modeling Technician

A Building Information Modeling Technician supports the creation and management of digital models of buildings and infrastructure. This course may be useful for aspiring Building Information Modeling Technicians because it covers the fundamentals of Microstation, a software used in the industry. The course introduces the Microstation interface, keyboard shortcuts, and basic menu functionalities. You will learn how to use tools for editing, managing levels, creating arrays, and adding dimensions. Additionally, the course covers converting files between different formats, such as DWG and PDF, which is useful when collaborating with different project stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Building Information Modeling Technician

Landscape Architect

A Landscape Architect designs outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and residential landscapes. This course may be useful for those wanting to gain expertise in Computer Aided Design. This course covers Microstation and may be useful for Landscape Architects looking to create site plans and landscape designs. The course teaches you how to use various tools and commands, manage levels, create arrays, and add dimensions. The lessons on terrains are particularly relevant for Landscape Architects, as they will learn how to import terrain data, display and adjust terrain models, and create contour labels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Surveyor

A Surveyor measures and maps land surfaces, providing data for construction, land development, and other projects. This course may be useful for Surveyors as they can lean the fundamentals of Microstation. The course teaches how to use various tools and commands, manage levels, create arrays, and add dimensions. The lessons on terrains are particularly useful for Surveyors, as they will learn how to import terrain data, display and adjust terrain models, and create contour labels. These skills are valuable for creating accurate maps and models of land surfaces.

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Urban Planner

An Urban Planner develops plans and programs for land use, transportation, and community development in urban areas. This course may be useful for Urban Planners looking to use Computer Aided Design. This course covering Microstation may be beneficial for creating site plans and urban layouts. The course teaches how to use various tools and commands, manage levels, create arrays, and add dimensions. The lessons on terrains are particularly relevant for Urban Planners, as they will learn how to import terrain data, display and adjust terrain models, and create contour labels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Exhibit Designer

An Exhibit Designer creates designs for exhibits in museums, trade shows, and other venues. An Exhibit Designer may find that this course on Microstation helps build a basic skillset. You will learn how to use the software's interface, basic tools, and advanced commands for editing, managing levels, and creating arrays. The course also covers dimensions and file conversions. While the course does not focus on exhibit design specifically, the core skills taught are transferable to creating exhibit layouts and 3D models.

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Set Designer

A Set Designer creates the visual environment for theater, film, and television productions. A Set Designer may find this course helpful for learning Microstation. You will learn how to use the software's interface, basic tools, and advanced commands for editing, managing levels, and creating arrays. The course also covers dimensions and file conversions, which may be useful for creating set designs and technical drawings. The 3D modeling skills taught may also be useful for visualizing set designs in three dimensions.

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Electrical Drafter

An Electrical Drafter creates technical drawings and schematics for electrical systems. This course helps build a foundation in Computer Aided Design software. You will learn the fundamentals of Microstation. You will also learn how to use various tools and commands, manage levels, create arrays, and add dimensions. The file conversion lessons may be useful for Electrical Drafters who need to work with different file formats. While the course does not specifically focus on electrical drafting, the core skills taught are transferable and can be applied to creating electrical diagrams and layouts.

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Game Designer

A Game Designer creates the concept, characters, story, and gameplay for video games. This course may be useful since Game Designers need to know Computer Aided Design. This course may be useful for Game Designers looking to learn Microstation. You will learn how to use the software's interface, basic tools, and advanced commands for editing, managing levels, and creating arrays. The 3D modeling skills taught may also be used to create game environments and assets. While the course does not focus on game design specifically, the core skills taught are transferable.

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Animator

An Animator creates moving images using computer software or traditional techniques for films, television, and video games. This course may be useful as Animators should have Computer Aided Design knowledge. This course covering Microstation may be useful for Animators looking to use the software for creating 3D models and environments. You will learn how to use various tools and commands, manage levels, create arrays, and work with 3D modeling tools. While the course does not focus on animation specifically, the core skills taught are transferable to creating 3D assets for animation projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animator

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Microstation - Learn 2D and 3D CAD design - AulaGEO.

Harnessing MicroStation V8i

Save

Offers a comprehensive guide to MicroStation, covering both basic and advanced features. It delves into topics such as parametric modeling, data management, and customization. It serves as a valuable resource for users looking to enhance their skills and leverage the full potential of MicroStation in professional design workflows.

Harnessing MicroStation V8I

Paperback

$$$

Alter Ego

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While this course focuses on Microstation, understanding the broader context of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is crucial. This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of BIM principles, workflows, and technologies. It is more valuable as additional reading to understand the industry context. It is commonly used as a reference by industry professionals.

Alter Ego: A Novel

Paperback

Microstation - Learn 2D and 3D CAD design - AulaGEO

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Microstation 2d/3d design basics

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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