Bentley Interference Manager

2004 Edition

User Guide
DAA011280-1/0004

Bentley Interference Manager User Guide

April 19, 2004

Trademarks
AccuDraw, Bentley, the "B" Bentley logo, Interference Manager, JSpace, MDL, MicroStation, MicroStation/J, MicroStation Schematics, MicroStation SE, PlantSpace, ProjectWise, SELECTserver, SmartLine, and TriForma are registered trademarks; AutoISOGEN, Bentley Navigator, Bentley Publisher, IsoExtractor, Model Streaming, and ProjectWise Integration Server are trademarks; Bentley SELECT, ProjectWise, and SELECT Stream are registered service marks of Bentley Systems, Incorporated or Bentley Software, Inc. AutoPLANT is a registered trademark of Rebis. Rebis is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bentley Systems, Incorporated. SupportModeler is a trademark of Pelican Forge Software Corporation. Intergraph is a registered trademark and PDS is a trademark of Intergraph Corporation. ISOGEN is a registered trademark of Alias Limited, United Kingdom. AutoCAD is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Adobe, Acrobat, and the Acrobat logo are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated. Netscape and Netscape Navigator are registered trademarks of Netscape Communications Corporation in the United States and other countries. Netscapes logos and Netscape product and service names are also trademarks of Netscape Communications Corporation, which may be registered in other countries. Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation. Primavera Project Planner and P3 are registered trademarks of Primavera Systems, Inc. Victaulic is a registered trademark and Vic-Press 304 is a trademark of Victaulic Company of America. RealityWave and the RealityWave logo are registered trademarks and VizStream is a trademark of RealityWave Inc. Other brands and product names are used for identification purposes and are trademarks of their respective owners.

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Bentley Interference Manager User Guide

Copyrights
Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Bentley Systems, Incorporated. The software in this document is furnished under a license agreement or a non-disclosure agreement. It is against the law to copy the software on any medium except as specifically allowed in the license or non-disclosure agreement. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording, for any purpose without the written permission of Bentley Systems, Incorporated. If this manual is being received electronically, you may print one copy for each licensed user, to whom the manual relates, for informational, non-commercial purposes, provided that any copy of this document (or any portion thereof) contains this copyright notice. Copyright 1991-2004, Bentley Systems, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Including software, file formats, and audiovisual displays; may only be used pursuant to applicable software license agreement; contains confidential and proprietary information of Bentley Systems, Incorporated and/or third parties which is protected by copyright and trade secret law and may not be provided or otherwise made available without proper authorization. Published in the United States of America. Documentation Copyright 2004. Unpublished rights reserved under the copyright laws of the United States and international treaties. All rights reserved. IGDS file formats Copyright 1981-1988 Intergraph Corporation. Used with permission. Intergraph raster file formats Copyright 1993 Intergraph Corporation. Used with permission. PIC001 Practice Copyright 2002 Process Industry Practices. Used with permission. VizStream Platform Copyright 2001-2003 RealityWave Inc. Used with permission. ISOGEN Copyright 1991-2003 Alias Limited. Used with permission.

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About This User Guide

About This User Guide

The Bentley Interference Manager User Guide explains how to extract geometric data from a 3D CAD application, such as MicroStation, set up the data, run interference detection, and review the results. This User Guide also serves as a reference because of the organization of the content. Each chapter begins with an explanation or description of the concepts of a topic and then provides the procedures. The procedures are written from a task-oriented approach, that is, from the way you would use the software to perform tasks on your job.

Who This Book Is For

This book is for users who need to check for interferences or clashes between components in 3D CAD model files.

How This Book Is Organized

Chapter 1 Introduction This chapter provides an overview of the Interference Manager including its features, navigating the user interface, and the procedure for starting and quitting. Chapter 2 Setting Up Interference Sets This chapter explains the setup process, navigating the Setup module, and working with the Interference Sets that contain the JSM files and their associated parameters used for the interference analysis. Chapter 3 Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine This chapter explains the Detection module including how the Bentley Interference Manager Engine functions and how to customize the standard run. Chapter 4 Reviewing Interferences in TriForma This chapter explains how to review your interference output (IOF) file in MicroStation.

How to Use This Book

If you are new to using the Bentley Interference Manager, you should begin by reading Chapter 1. If you want to set up an interference detection, you should read Chapter 2. If you want to
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run an interference analysis, you should read Chapter 3. If you want to review your results, you should read Chapter 4.

Style Conventions
The following conventions explain the style of the text in this User Guide. Style Convention
ALL CAPITAL LETTERS Letter Gothic

Use in Text
Names of acronyms and terms in objectoriented programming, such as classes, properties, and methods Messages displayed online and programming code or syntax Names of files, directories, commands, menus, buttons, and items that you select and text that you type in a field Terms defined in text and names of books cited as references Important information that you must know (for example, to avoid losing data) Information of note that is useful to know

Bold

Italic

Related Documentation
The following related publications provide supporting information.

JSpace Concepts and Technical Reference This Reference provides a comprehensive overview of the JSpace object-oriented environment. It also provides technical information about fundamental aspects of JSpace that are employed in JSpace-based applications. JSpace Class Editor User Guide This Guide provides information on using the Class Editor and the technical details about object classes, properties, methods, relationships, and inference rules.

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About This User Guide JSpace MicroStation Connection User Guide This Guide provides information on using the JSpace MicroStation Connection to extract CAD model data and create JSpace object model files.

Online Documentation
All documentation is provided in PDF (Portable Document Format) files.

PDF Files
PDF files are platform independent. You can browse, search, and print them, regardless of your operating system, by using the Acrobat Reader utility from Adobe Systems, Incorporated. PDF files are displayed on the Help menu within the software product. The online book titles are indicated by the Acrobat Reader icon. For more information on using the Acrobat Reader to browse, search, and print PDF files, see the Help menu in the Acrobat Reader program.

Customer Support
For support, you can call Bentley Systems, Incorporated at: (800) BENTLEY or (610) 458-5000 For requests to obtain licenses, you can contact Bentley Systems, Incorporated at: Americas headquarters, Fax (610) 458-1060 European headquarters, Fax +31 23 556 0565 Asia-Pacific headquarters, Fax +61 3 9699 8677 For more information about the Bentley family of software products, you can send an e-mail to: [email protected] For support, problems, and questions regarding Bentley software, you can send an e-mail to: [email protected] For more information about Bentley Systems, Incorporated, please visit our Internet web site at: http://www.bentley.com

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Table of Contents

About This User Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

1. Introduction About the Bentley Interference Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Understanding Interference Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Summarizing the Features of the Interference Manager . . . . . . . 1-2 Using the Interference Manager tool box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 Visualizing the Bentley Interference Detection Process . . . . . . . 1-5 Navigating the Interference Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6 Starting and Quitting the Interference Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

2. Setting Up Interference Sets Understanding the Setup Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 Navigating the Setup Module . . . . . . . . . . . . Interference Set Manager Dialog Box . . . New Interference Set File Dialog Box . . . Open Interference Set File Dialog Box . . Save Interference Set File As Dialog Box Add JSpace Model Dialog Box . . . . . . . . Set Commodity Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . Set Clearance Dialog Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 2-4 2-6 2-7 2-8 2-9 2-9 2-10

Working with Interference Sets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10 Creating Interference Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11 Opening Existing Interference Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

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Table of Contents

Adding JSM Files to Interference Sets. . . . . . . . . . . . Deleting JSM Files from Interference Sets . . . . . . . . . Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Graphical Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Text Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . .2-14 . . . . . .2-16 . . . . . .2-17 . . . . . .2-19

3. Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine Understanding the Bentley Interference Manager Engine . . . . . .3-1 Calculating Interferences . . . . . . . . . . Reporting Hard Interferences . . . Reporting Soft Interferences . . . . Defining Connection Tolerance . . Defining Local Tolerance . . . . . . Defining Clearance Tolerance . . . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .... .... .... .... .... .... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ... ... ... ... ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2 .3-4 .3-4 .3-4 .3-4 .3-5 .3-5 .3-6 .3-6 .3-7 .3-8 .3-9 .3-11 .3-11 .3-12 .3-14 .3-15 .3-16 .3-18 .3-21 .3-24 .3-27 .3-27 .3-28 .3-29 .3-31 .3-32 .3-33 .3-33

Checking with Suppression Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . Understanding Suppression Rules . . . . . . . . . . Using the Suppression Rules (SUP) File . . . . . . Formatting Suppression Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reserving Properties in Suppression Rules . . . . Examples of Suppression Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . An Example of a Suppression Rules (SUP) File

Reporting Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Creating Interference Output (IOF) Files . . . . . . . . Creating Interference Report (RPT) Files . . . . . . . . Visualizing the Reporting Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting Up the Report Options (ROF) File . . . . . . . Reviewing a Customized Interference Report (RPT) Navigating the Detection Module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bentley Interference Manager Engine Dialog Box . Select Interference Set File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . Interference Set Manager Dialog Box. . . . . . . . . . . Select Interference Results File Dialog Box . . . . . . Interference Results Manager Dialog Box. . . . . . . . Select File To Create Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select dBASE File To Create Dialog Box . . . . . . . . Select ASCII File to Create Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . Delete Interferences Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.... .... .... .... .... File . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

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Select Select Select Select

Suppression Rules File Dialog Box . Report File Dialog Box. . . . . . . . . . Report Options File Dialog Box . . . Settings File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

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3-34 3-35 3-36 3-36

Using a Text Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37 Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine Using a Graphical Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using a Graphical Menu and Saved Settings . . Using a Command Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38 3-38 3-43 3-44

4. Reviewing Interferences in TriForma Understanding the Review Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Navigating the Review Module in TriForma . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interference Reviewer Tool Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interference Reviewer Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the File Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Interference Results File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . Select Interference Analysis Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plot Interferences Dialog Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select a File in the Output Directory Dialog Box. . . . . . . Name Seed File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Create Plot Seed File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the Settings Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select Auto Zoom Windows Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . Review Options Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select Report Options File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Name Seed File Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Filter Interferences Dialog Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the Interference Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Show Interference Details Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Edit Interference Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reviewing Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Displaying Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customizing the View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editing the Reviewer, Status, and Comments.
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. . 4-2 . . 4-3 . . 4-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 4-8 4-9 4-9 4-10 4-11 4-12 4-14 4-15 4-15 4-17 4-18 4-18

. . 4-20 . . 4-21 . . 4-22 . . . . . . . . 4-23 4-23 4-26 4-32

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Table of Contents

Marking Interferences as Accepted . . Viewing the Details of Interferences . Building Default Seed Files . . . . . . . . Plotting Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . .

... ... ... ...

... ... ... ...

.... .... .... ....

.. .. .. ..

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.4-34 .4-35 .4-36 .4-39

Appendix A File Extensions

Appendix B Directory Structure for Interference Manager Files

Appendix C Configuration Variables

Glossary

Index

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Introduction
Welcome to the Bentley Interference Manager, an analytical tool that you can use to detect, review, and manage interferences in 3D CAD models. This chapter provides an overview of the Interference Manager including its features, navigating the user interface, and the procedure for starting and quitting.

About the Bentley Interference Manager

The Bentley Interference Manager, or simply the Interference Manager, provides advanced methods for detecting, reviewing, and managing interferences in your 3D CAD models. An interference is defined as a clash in the physical components of the model. The Interference Manager is an MDL application called PSIM.MA. This chapter discusses the following topics: Understanding Interference Detection on page 1-1 Summarizing the Features of the Interference Manager on page 1-2 Using the Interference Manager tool box on page 1-3 Visualizing the Bentley Interference Detection Process on page 1-5 Navigating the Interference Manager on page 1-6 Starting and Quitting the Interference Manager on page 1-7

Understanding Interference Detection

Before 3D design, you needed to perform numerous design studies and develop many sketches to determine if something would fit. Later, using 3D modeling technology, you could visually check for interferences. However, by simply checking the model visually, you could miss an interference. Now, you can automate this detection process using an analytical tool such as the Interference Manager.
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Introduction
Summarizing the Features of the Interference Manager

Summarizing the Features of the Interference Manager

The primary features of the Interference Manager include the following: Uses data from existing applications The Interference Manager uses the graphical data and associated attributes to detect interferences in models from different applications, such as the PlantSpace Design Series, MicroStation TriForma, PDS, AutoPlant, and OMNI-Series. Resolves clashes independent of design applications The Interference Manager can access a part of a design file from one application and a corresponding part from another application so that you can combine similar parts from different applications in a single interference analysis. Checks across multiple disciplines The Interference Manager checks files for clashes from multiple disciplines, such as pipes against other pipes, equipment, and structure. Minimizes effort for correction of errors The Interference Manager can perform the analysis interactively or in batch mode on a periodic basis without interrupting the design process. Provides flexibility in defining the detection The Interference Manager creates a reusable configuration that specifies the elements and levels to include in the detection process. Optimizes the review process The Interference Manager focuses on the unacceptable interferences by excluding acceptable interferences and suppressed interferences during the detection process using the following two methods: Marking acceptable interferences Identifying interferences that satisfy a defined set of rules, known as suppression rules Reviews interferences The Interference Manager can review interferences individually by stepping through the list of detected clashes. If you select an interference from the list, you can zoom in on the components involved and display hard and soft interferences in contrasting colors.

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Introduction
Using the Interference Manager tool box
Documents interferences The Interference Manager outputs interferences in one of the following two formats: An interference output (IOF) file Stores pairs of interfering objects and maintains the status information throughout the life of your project. This JSpace object model file is identified by the IOF file extension. An interference report (RPT) file Describes the interferences, their associated attributes, and their locations. This ASCII file has a customizable format and is identified by the RPT file extension. Enhances total project coordination The Interference Manager reduces the need for re-work in the field resulting from design interferences and improves the design quality and construction productivity.

Using the Interference Manager tool box

The process of performing interference detection and review involves four sequential processes: Extracting data from 3D CAD files The Extraction module uses the JSpace MicroStation Connection to retrieve geometric data and to create JSM files needed for interference detection from design files that are stored in 3D CAD systems, such as MicroStation. avoid accidentally overwriting the delivered JSM W To files, you may want to make a copy of them before beginning to use the software. By default, the sample JSMs are located at ...\Program Files\Bentley\ Workspace\Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\ intmgr\out. JSM files are also referred to as JSpace object model files, JSpace models, or JSpace (JSM) files. For more information about extracting data from 3D CAD files, see the JSpace MicroStation Connection User Guide.

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Introduction
Using the Interference Manager tool box
Setting up an Interference Set The Setup module uses the extracted data and associated parameters to set up Interference Sets in preparation for the analysis. For more information about creating sets, see the chapter Setting Up Interference Sets on page 2-1. Running interference detection The Detection module uses the Bentley Interference Manager Engine, or simply the Engine, to perform calculations based on the information in the Interference Sets. You can choose to run the Engine either in interactive mode by using a graphical menu or in batch mode by using command line switches. The process produces two forms of output: An interference output (IOF) file in a database format that stores pairs of interfering objects An interference report (RPT) file in an ASCII format that stores information on interferences For more information about detecting interferences, see the chapter Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine on page 3-1. Reviewing interferences The Review module uses MicroStation TriForma or the Bentley Navigator to perform an analysis of the detected interferences, to enter comments, to set the status for each interference, and to save the data. Also, you can select and view all or parts of the Interference Sets, view and export the properties of Interference Sets, and plot and filter interferences. For more information about analyzing interferences in TriForma, see the chapter Reviewing Interferences in TriForma on page 4-1. For more information about analyzing interferences in the Navigator, see the Bentley Navigator User Guide.

For more information about extensions, see Appendix A File

Extensions on page A-1. For more information about directory names, see Appendix B Directory Structure for Interference Manager Files on page B-1.

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Introduction
Visualizing the Bentley Interference Detection Process

Visualizing the Bentley Interference Detection Process

The following diagram shows the four stages of the Interference Manager process.

STAGES

CAD System CAD Files

1. Extracting Data from 3D CAD Files

(extract data) JSM Files

2. Setting Up Interference Sets

(specify parameters to create an interference set file) DAT File

3. Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

Bentley Interference Manager Engine Interference Report File (ASCII report)

Interference Output File

IOF

4. Reviewing Interferences

In MicroStation TriForma

In the Bentley Navigator

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Navigating the Interference Manager

Navigating the Interference Manager

The following illustration shows how to navigate in the four modules that open from the Interference Manager tool box.

Extract Object Model

Review Interferences

Set Up Interference Detection* Detect Interferences*

* Like MicroStation, the Interference Manager supports the concept of a workspace, which enables you to define different product configurations for different projects. If you have defined multiple workspaces (.pcf files), the Select Project dialog box prompts you to select a project.

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Introduction
Starting and Quitting the Interference Manager

Starting and Quitting the Interference Manager

The Interference Manager is installed as a part of MicroStation TriForma, or simply TriForma. You can customize the way the Interference Manager works by setting the configuration variables. For more information about configuration variables, see Appendix C Configuration Variables on page C-1.

Be sure that your license is installed properly so that you can

access and use the Interference Manager. Most modules of the Interference Manager run with the TriForma license. However, to run the Engine, you must install a separate license for this product.

To start and quit the Interference Manager

1. From the Windows Start menu, choose Programs > TriForma V8 > MicroStation TriForma V8.

The MicroStation Manager dialog box opens.

2. From the User drop-down list box in the Workspace section, select a workspace based on TriForma.

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Introduction
Starting and Quitting the Interference Manager
3. Optionally, from the Project drop-down list box in the Workspace section, select No Project.

To enable the selection of a JSM file in the JSpace

MicroStation Connection dialog box later, you must select No Project.
4. Select a design file. 5. Click the OK button. 6. From the TriForma menu bar, choose TriForma > Tools > Drawings and Reports > Reports.

Also, to display the Interference Manager tool box, you can click the Interference Manager tool on the Reports tool frame. The Interference Manager tool box is displayed in a workspace based on TriForma.

Your display may vary based on the way that you

customize your MicroStation Manager workspace.

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Introduction
Starting and Quitting the Interference Manager
7. To close the Interference Manager, use the following steps:

From the TriForma menu bar, choose File > Close If you choose File > Close with only one file open, the MicroStation Manager dialog box is displayed. To close the MicroStation Manager dialog box, click Cancel

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1-10

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Setting Up Interference Sets

After creating JSM files by extracting 3D CAD files, the next stage in the process is to set up the parameters for an interference analysis. This chapter explains the setup process, navigating the Setup module, and working with the Interference Sets that contain the JSM files and their associated parameters used for the interference analysis.

Understanding the Setup Process

The Bentley Interference Manager Engine, or simply the Engine, performs the interference detection by reading an interference set (DAT) file that contains the Interference Set. The terms Interference Set and interference set (DAT) file are often used interchangeably. Technically, the interference set (DAT) file contains the Interference Set. The Setup module enables you to create an Interference Set that contains: The JSpace object model files These files, which are extracted from CAD system design files, are checked for interferences. The parameters These parameters, which are associated with the JSM files, are used to detect interferences.

After you create an Interference Set, you can save it and modify it to perform another interference detection. To use the Setup module, you should become familiar with the following processes: Navigating the Setup Module on page 2-2 Working with Interference Sets on page 2-10

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Navigating the Setup Module

Navigating the Setup Module

This illustration shows how to navigate the Setup module. The following sections describe the fields and buttons of the dialog boxes.

Continued on the next page.

* Like MicroStation, the Interference Manager supports the concept of a workspace, which enables you to define different product configurations for different projects. If you have defined multiple workspaces (.pcf files), the Select Project dialog box prompts you to select a project.

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Navigating the Setup Module
. Continued from the previous page:

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Navigating the Setup Module
To use the Setup module, you should have a working knowledge of the following areas: Interference Set Manager Dialog Box on page 2-4 New Interference Set File Dialog Box on page 2-6 Open Interference Set File Dialog Box on page 2-7 Save Interference Set File As Dialog Box on page 2-8 Add JSpace Model Dialog Box on page 2-9 Set Commodity Dialog Box on page 2-9 Set Clearance Dialog Box on page 2-10

Interference Set Manager Dialog Box

The Interference Set Manager dialog box enables you to set the parameters for an interference analysis. You can open the Interference Set Manager dialog box by clicking the Set Up Interference Detection tool in the Interference Manager tool box. The Interference Set Manager dialog box opens.

Setting
File menu New...

Effect
Opens the New Interference Set File dialog box. For more information, see the section New Interference Set File Dialog Box on page 2-6. Opens the Open Interference Set File dialog box. For more information, see the section Open Interference Set File Dialog Box on page 2-7. Saves the interference set (DAT) file whose name is displayed in the title bar of the Interference Set Manager dialog box. Opens the Save Interference Set File As dialog box. For more information, see the section Save Interference Set File As Dialog Box on page 2-8.

Open...

Save Save As...

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Interference Set Manager Dialog Box

Setting
Exit Options menu Add...

Effect
Closes the Interference Set Manager dialog box. Opens the Add JSpace Model dialog box. For more information, see the section Add JSpace Model Dialog Box on page 2-9. Opens a message box asking whether or not you want to delete the selected JSM file. Opens the Set Commodity dialog box. For more information, see the section Set Commodity Dialog Box on page 2-9. Specifies the status of each JSM file in relationship to other JSM files in the Interference Set, as follows: Active Semi-Active Passive For more information, see the bulleted table row Mode on page 2-6. Opens the Set Clearance dialog box. For more information, see the section Set Clearance Dialog Box on page 2-10. Instructs the Engine whether or not to check for interferences within the same JSM file, as follows: Yes No For more information, see the bulleted table row Self Check on page 2-6. Provides information on the JSM files and their parameters contained in the Interference Set. Using in-place editing, you can edit the information in the columns in this list box. This column provides the name of the JSM file to include in the interference detection. This column provides a descriptive name for the type of objects in the JSM file, such as HVAC, Piping, or Structural.

Delete... Set Commodity...

Set Mode

Set Clearance...

Set Self Check

Interference Set list box

Model Name Commodity

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Navigating the Setup Module

Setting
Mode

Effect
This column, which is controlled by a three-way toggle, provides the status of this JSM file as it relates to other JSM files in the Interference Set, as follows: ACTIVE Checks the objects in this active JSM file against other objects contained in the active, semi-active, and passive JSM files in the Interference Set. SEMI-ACTIVE Checks the objects in this semi-active JSM file against the active and passive JSM files in the Interference Set. However, this semi-active JSM file is not checked against other semi-active files in the Interference Set. PASSIVE Checks the objects in the active or semi-active JSM files against the objects in this passive JSM file in the Interference Set. However, does not check the objects in this passive JSM file against the objects in the active or semi-active JSM files or in other passive JSM files in the Interference Set. By default, Mode is set to ACTIVE. This column specifies the distance between two or more components. For each of the active files reviewed during interference detection, you can apply clearance tolerances to the surfaces to identify soft interferences, such as for maintenance, vibration, or insulation. For more information about clearance tolerances, see the section Defining Clearance Tolerance on page 3-5. This column, which is controlled by a toggle, instructs the Engine whether or not to check the objects in the active JSM file against objects in the same file for interferences, as follows: Yes Checks the JSM file for internal interferences. No Does not check the JSM file for internal interferences. For passive JSM files, Self Check is ignored. By default, Self Check is set to No.

Clearance

Self Check

New Interference Set File Dialog Box

The New Interference Set File dialog box enables you to create a new interference set (DAT) file. You can open the New Interference Set File dialog box by choosing File > New from the

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Open Interference Set File Dialog Box
Interference Set Manager menu bar. The New Interference Set File dialog box opens.

Setting
Save In File Name Save as Type Save Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location for the new interference set (DAT) file. Sets the desired name for the new interference set (DAT) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as DAT. Creates the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without creating the file.

Open Interference Set File Dialog Box

The Open Interference Set File dialog box enables you to display an existing interference set file identified by the DAT file extension. You can open the Open Interference Set File dialog box by choosing File > Open from the Interference Set Manager menu bar. The Open Interference Set File dialog box opens.

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Navigating the Setup Module

Setting
Look In File Name Files of Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired interference set (DAT) file. Sets the name of the desired interference set (DAT) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as DAT. Opens the selected file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without opening the selected file.

Save Interference Set File As Dialog Box

The Save Interference Set File As dialog box enables you to save a new or an existing interference set (DAT) file to a different file name. You can open the Save Interference Set File As dialog box by choosing File > Save As from the Interference Set Manager menu bar. The Save Interference Set File As dialog box opens.

Setting
Save In File Name Save as Type Save Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location where you want to save the interference set (DAT) file. Sets the desired name for the interference set (DAT) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as DAT. Saves the selected file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without saving the file.

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Add JSpace Model Dialog Box

Add JSpace Model Dialog Box

The Add JSpace Model dialog box enables you to select one or more JSM files that were created from the data extracted from the CAD design file. You can open the Add JSpace Model dialog box by choosing Options > Add from the Interference Set Manager menu bar. The Add JSpace Model dialog box opens.

Setting
Look In File Name Files of Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired JSM file. Sets the name of the desired JSM file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as JSM. Adds the selected file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without adding the selected file.

For more information about creating JSM files, see the JSpace
MicroStation Connection User Guide.

Set Commodity Dialog Box

The Set Commodity dialog box enables you to specify a commodity name for the JSM file. You can open the Set Commodity dialog box by selecting a JSM file in the Interference Set Manager dialog box and then choosing Options > Set Commodity from the menu bar. The Set Commodity dialog box opens.

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Working with Interference Sets

Setting
Commodity Name OK Cancel

Effect
Sets a descriptive name for the type of objects in the JSM file. Accepts the change and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without making the change.

Set Clearance Dialog Box

The Set Clearance dialog box enables you to set a clearance tolerance for the JSM file. You can open the Set Clearance dialog box by selecting a JSM file in the Interference Set Manager dialog box and then choosing Options > Set Clearance from the menu bar. The Set Clearance dialog box opens.

Setting
Clearance Tolerance

Effect
Sets a numerical value for the clearance tolerance in model units for the objects in the JSM file. Note: The units for the clearance tolerance must be the same for the active and passive files that you want to compare. Accepts the change and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without making the change.

OK Cancel

Working with Interference Sets

Working with Interference Sets involves the following processes: Creating Interference Sets on page 2-11 Opening Existing Interference Sets on page 2-13 Adding JSM Files to Interference Sets on page 2-14 Deleting JSM Files from Interference Sets on page 2-16

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Creating Interference Sets
Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Graphical Menu on page 2-17 Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Text Editor on page 2-19

Creating Interference Sets

The interference set file contains the Interference Set, which records the JSM files and the associated data to be checked for interferences. This ASCII text file is identified by the DAT file extension.

To create an Interference Set

1. In TriForma, open the Interference Manager.

As necessary, see the procedure To start and quit the Interference Manager on page 1-7.
2. In the Interference Manager tool box, click the Set Up Interference Detection tool.

The Interference Set Manager dialog box opens.

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Working with Interference Sets
3. From the Interference Set Manager menu bar, choose File > New.

The New Interference Set File dialog box opens.

4. To create a new file, use the following steps:

In the Save In field, select the desired directory In the File Name field, type the desired file name identified by the DAT file extension, such as NEW.DAT In the Save As Type drop-down list box, select DAT Click Save The Interference Set Manager dialog box opens with the name of the new interference set (DAT) file in the title bar.

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Opening Existing Interference Sets
5. To close the Interference Set Manager dialog box, choose File > Exit.

If you created or modified the Interference Set, the Interference Manager prompts you to save your changes before exiting.

If you want to return to the Interference Set Manager dialog box, you can click the Cancel button. If you do not want to save your changes, you can click the No button. If you click the Yes button, the interference set (DAT) file is saved and the Interference Set Manager dialog box is closed.

Opening Existing Interference Sets

If you want to review or modify an Interference Set, you can open an existing Interference Set.

To open an existing Interference Set

1. In TriForma, open the Interference Manager.

As necessary, see the procedure To start and quit the Interference Manager on page 1-7.
2. In the Interference Manager tool box, click the Set Up Interference Detection tool.

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Working with Interference Sets
3. From the Interference Set Manager menu bar, choose File > Open.

The Open Interference Set File dialog box opens.

4. Specify the desired interference set (DAT) file and then click Open.

The Interference Set Manager dialog box opens with the name of the selected DAT file in the title bar.

Adding JSM Files to Interference Sets

If you want to check additional JSpace models in your interference analysis, you should add those JSM files to the Interference Set.

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Adding JSM Files to Interference Sets To add JSM files to the Interference Set
1. With the Interference Set Manager dialog box displayed from the previous procedure, choose Options > Add from the Interference Set Manager menu bar.

The Add JSpace Model dialog box opens.

For more information about creating JSM files, see the

JSpace MicroStation Connection User Guide.
2. To add a JSM file, use the following steps:

In the Look In field, select the desired directory In the File Name field, select the desired file name identified by the JSM file extension In the Files of Type drop-down list box, select JSM Click Open Also, you can double-click the JSM file. If you do not want to add this file, you can click the Cancel button. If you click the Open button, the Interference Set Manager dialog box is displayed with the name of the JSM file in the Interference Set list box.

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Working with Interference Sets
3. To add additional JSM files, repeat the previous steps.

If you want to select multiple classes, you can use one or both of the following operations: To select all classes, you can click a class and then hold down the <Ctrl> key when you click <a> To select a range of classes, you can click the first class and then hold down the <Shift> key when you click the last class To select individual JSM files, you can hold down the <Ctrl> key as you click each class

The Interference Set Manager dialog box is displayed with the names of the additional JSM files in the Interference Set list box.

4. To save the revised Interference Set, choose File > Save from the Interference Set Manager menu bar.

Deleting JSM Files from Interference Sets

If your interference analysis is checking a JSpace model that you do not want to check, you can remove that JSM file from the Interference Set.

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Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Graphical Menu To delete a JSM file from the Interference Set
1. With the Interference Set Manager dialog box displayed from the previous procedure, select a JSM file in the Interference Set list box that you want to delete.

The Interference Set Manager dialog box is displayed with the selected file highlighted.

2. From the Interference Set Manager menu bar, choose Options > Delete.

A message box opens.

3. To delete the selected JSM file, click Yes.

If you do not want to delete the JSM file, you can click the No button. If you click the Yes button, the selected JSM file is removed from the Interference Set and is no longer displayed in the Interference Set list box of the Interference Set Manger dialog box.
4. To save the revised Interference Set, choose File > Save from the Interference Set Manager menu bar.

Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Graphical Menu

If you want to change the manner in which the interference detection is performed, you can set or modify the parameters of the Interference Set using either a graphical menu or a text editor.

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Working with Interference Sets
For information about modifying the Interference Set using a text editor, see the section To modify the parameters of the Interference Set using a text editor on page 2-20.

To set or modify parameters of the Interference Set using a graphical menu

1. With the Interference Set Manager dialog box displayed from the previous procedure, select a JSM file in the Interference Set list box.

The Interference Set Manager dialog box is displayed with the name of the selected JSM file highlighted in the Interference Set list box.

If you want to alphabetize your Interference Set

information in ascending or descending order, you can click the desired column heading name.
2. In the Commodity column, type a descriptive name for the objects in the JSM file, such as HVAC, Piping, or Structural.

For more information on commodities, see the section Set Commodity Dialog Box on page 2-9.
3. In the Mode column, which is controlled by a three-way toggle, select the desired type, such as:

X ACTIVE / SEMI-ACTIVE PASSIVE For more information on modes, see the bulleted table row Mode on page 2-6.
4. In the Clearance column, type a value to specify the clearance tolerance for soft interferences.

For more information on clearances, see the section Set Clearance Dialog Box on page 2-10.

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Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Text Editor
5. In the Self Check column, which is controlled by a toggle, select the desired type, such as:

If checked, Yes If cleared, No For more information about Self Check, see the bulleted table row Self Check on page 2-6. The Interference Set Manager dialog box is displayed with modified parameters.

6. As desired, modify the other parameters of the Interference Set. 7. To save the revised interference set (DAT) file, choose File > Save from the Interference Set Manager menu bar. 8. To close the Interference Set Manager dialog box, choose File > Exit.

Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Text Editor

Instead of modifying the parameters of the Interference Set using a graphical menu, you can use a text editor to change the manner in which the interference detection is performed. For information on modifying the Interference Set using a graphical menu, see the section Setting or Modifying Parameters of Interference Sets using a Graphical Menu on page 2-17.

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Setting Up Interference Sets

Working with Interference Sets To modify the parameters of the Interference Set using a text editor
1. Using a text editor, such as Notepad, open an interference set (DAT) file, such as ...\Program Files\Bentley\Workspace\ Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\intmgr\out\ triforma_imperial.dat.

Each JSM file is displayed on a separate line with a vertical bar (|) separating the fields. For example,

filename|commodity|mode|clearance|self check

Where
filename

Means
The name of the JSM file. Note: For files that are not in the same directory as the DAT file, you should specify the full directory path. A text description of the types of objects in the file, such as HVAC, Piping, or Structural. Note: This field can contain a maximum of 80 characters. The value that indicates the type of file, as follows: ACTIVE SEMI-ACTIVE PASSIVE The value that specifies the allowable distance between two or more model components and that is used to calculate soft interferences. The value that controls whether or not to check for interferences within a JSM file, as follows: Yes Checks No Does not check

commodity

mode

clearance self check

2. To modify the parameters, type over the current values. 3. To save the revised interference set (DAT) file, choose File > Save. 4. To close the interference set (DAT) file and exit the text editor, choose File > Exit.

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

The Bentley Interference Manager Engine is a JSpace-based application that uses the JSM files and their associated parameters to detect interferences. This chapter explains the Detection module including how the Engine functions and how to customize the standard run.

Understanding the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

The Bentley Interference Manager Engine, or simply the Engine, detects interferences using the JSM files that you created with the MicroStation Connection tool in the Extraction module and the parameters that you specified in the Setup module. The Engine can run independently of any CAD or design application system. Also, it can run locally on your workstation or on a network on a separate workstation. Using the Engine, the Detection module performs interference detection at the level of the individual surfaces for each object. Therefore, the accuracy of the geometric representations of the elements within your files determines the accuracy of the interference detection. Running interference detection involves the following sequential processes: Calculating interferences After identifying a potential interference between two objects, the Engine performs the following processes: Applies the specified tolerances Analyzes each pair of objects at the geometric surface level to determine if the two objects interfere For more information about calculating interferences, see the section Calculating Interferences on page 3-2. Applying suppression rules The Engine applies suppression rules to identify interferences that it should not report. For more information about suppression rules, see the section Checking with Suppression Rules on page 3-5.

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

Calculating Interferences
Reporting interferences Generating an interference output (IOF) file The Engine copies the pair of interfering objects that satisfy all of the specified criteria to a results file, known as the interference output file identified by the IOF file extension. For more information about interference output files, see the section Reporting Interferences on page 3-11 and the section Creating Interference Output (IOF) Files on page 3-12. Generating an interference report (RPT) file The Engine creates an interference report file to describe each of the interferences detected during the interference check. This ASCII text file is identified by the RPT file extension. For more information about interference report files, see the section Reporting Interferences on page 3-11 and the section Creating Interference Report (RPT) Files on page 3-14. Also, to use the Detection module, you need to understand the following processes: Navigating the Detection Module on page 3-21 Using a Text Editor on page 3-37 Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine on page 3-38

Calculating Interferences
During interference detection, the Engine compares the graphic elements of one object, such as its polygons and lines, with the graphic elements of other objects in the same model and in other models. From the calculations, the Engine mathematically evaluates each surface to determine if the surfaces or edges of one object intersect those of another object. The Engine assigns a unique number to each pair of interfering objects and indicates the type of interference, such as:
Hard See Reporting Hard Interferences on page 3-4 Soft See Reporting Soft Interferences on page 3-4

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Calculating Interferences
Also, the Engine compares these calculations to the tolerances that you specify in the Interference Set. The three types of tolerances are: Connection Tolerances See Defining Connection Tolerance on page 3-4 Local Tolerances See Defining Local Tolerance on page 3-4 Clearance Tolerances See Defining Clearance Tolerance on page 3-5

The following diagram shows examples of the three types of tolerances.

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Calculating Interferences

Reporting Hard Interferences

A hard interference is a physical clash between elements. If the graphic elements from two different objects intersect, then the Engine reports a hard interference.

Reporting Soft Interferences

A soft interference is a violation of a clearance tolerance applied to the physical element. If any part of a graphic element from one object lies within a specified distance of another object, but does not intersect any of the graphic elements of that object, then the Engine reports a soft interference. For example, a soft interference is reported if the clearance for the maintenance of a mechanical pump is intersected.

Defining Connection Tolerance

You can define an allowable distance in model units, known as a connection tolerance, to eliminate interferences between objects that only touch. As shown in the previous diagram, when the Engine first checks a pipe and an elbow, it detects that the two objects touch each other and reports a hard interference. However, after applying the connection tolerance, the Engine shrinks one of these objects by the amount of the specified connection tolerance. Then, when the Engine rechecks the two objects, it detects that the two objects do not touch and reports no interference.

The connection tolerance must not exceed a maximum value of

0.125 inches or 3 mm. The units must be consistent with those that you use for the model files and the clearance tolerances.

Defining Local Tolerance

You can specify a local tolerance value for each object to represent the physical attributes of the object that are not explicitly represented by its geometry, such as insulation. As shown in the previous diagram, if any part of the graphic elements of one object or its local tolerance lies within the local tolerance of another object, then the Engine reports a hard interference. To specify a local tolerance at the model object level, you can define the configuration variable IFM_TOLEXPRES. This configuration variable defines a JSpace expression that evaluates

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Defining Clearance Tolerance
to the tolerance value. This expression is evaluated against every object. The result of the expression must be in model units.

Defining Clearance Tolerance

You can identify a clearance tolerance as a specified distance around an object. As shown in the previous diagram, depending on the clearance tolerances of one or both of the objects, the Engine reports a soft interference or no interference at all. If two objects each have a specified clearance tolerance and you select the Combine Object Clearances setting in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box, the Engine combines the two tolerances, runs interference detection, and reports a soft interference. However, if you do not select this setting, the Engine uses the larger of the two clearance tolerance values and reports no interference. The clearance tolerance is added to the local tolerance defined at the object level.

Checking with Suppression Rules

You can use suppression rules to specify interferences that the Engine should not report. For example, when a pipe flange is bolted to an equipment nozzle, an interference should not be reported even though the two objects physically touch. The same is true for a beam connected to a column or for a pipe connected to a pipe support. Because these suppression rules reside in an ASCII text file and are external to the application, you can change the way that the Engine processes interferences without modifying the software. When the Engine detects an interference, it performs the following processes: Non-reporting of the interference if the interference exists in the interference output (IOF) file and the interference has previously been accepted in the Review module Reporting of the interference if suppression rules are not defined or if no suppression rule applies to a particular interference

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Checking with Suppression Rules
To use Suppression Rules, you should become familiar with the following topics: Understanding Suppression Rules on page 3-6 Using the Suppression Rules (SUP) File on page 3-6 Formatting Suppression Rules on page 3-7 Reserving Properties in Suppression Rules on page 3-8 Examples of Suppression Rules on page 3-9 An Example of a Suppression Rules (SUP) File on page 3-11

Understanding Suppression Rules

If you find that the first run of interference detection produces a high number of interferences, the Engine may have included interferences that you do not want to consider. You can create suppression rules that specify certain conditions that are not to be considered as interferences. Then, using these suppression rules, the Engine can skip these interferences to give you a more realistic and useful result. For example, if two objects are allowed to touch, you do not want the Engine to report an interference.

Using the Suppression Rules (SUP) File

The suppression rules (SUP) file contains the suppression rules. The suppression rules are a collection of IF-THEN JSpace expressions that refer to properties associated with the interfering objects. Using the information contained in the suppression rules (SUP) file, the Engine can examine the pair of interfering objects and decide whether or not to report the interference. The suppression rules file is an ASCII text file identified by the SUP file extension.

To write useful suppression rules, you should use the specific

properties and the values of the JSpace object classes that are used for your model data. For more information about JSpace expressions, see the JSpace Concepts and Technical Reference document. For more information about class properties, see the JSpace Class Editor User Guide.

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Formatting Suppression Rules

Formatting Suppression Rules

A suppression rule states that if certain conditions are met, then corresponding actions are taken. The IF-THEN format of a suppression rule expression is:
IF <condition> THEN <action> ENDIF

The <condition> and <action> clauses are described in more detail in subsequent sections. Additional syntax for writing suppression rules includes: Rules are not case sensitive. However, character string constants, which are enclosed in double-quotation marks, are case sensitive and are treated as literal strings. Parentheses ( ) can be used to force a specific order of evaluation in complex rule expressions. The pound sign (#) is a comment delimiter. The Engine ignores anything on a line following the pound sign. The ENDIF reserved word specifies the end of the rule.

Logical Operators
The valid logical operators are: Logical Operator
AND OR

Means
If both sides are TRUE, the expression is true. If either side is TRUE, the expression is true.

Comparison Operators
The valid comparison operators are: Comparison Operator
== > >= < <= !=

Means
Is equal to Is greater than Is greater than or equal to Is less than Is less than or equal to Is not equal to

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Checking with Suppression Rules Comparative Expressions
The comparative expression of a suppression rule is formed using two arithmetic or two character expressions separated by a comparison operator. The value of a comparative expression is either: TRUE FALSE

Condition Expression
A condition expression of a suppression rule is formed using one or more comparative expressions and a logical operator, such that: If it evaluates to a non-zero value, it is TRUE. If it evaluates to a zero value, it is FALSE.

Examples of JSpace Expressions

A simple comparative expression:
RADIUS <= 5

A condition expression with two comparative expressions:

(RADIUS <= 5) AND ($Int_Commodity == "PIPING")

Action Clause
The action clause of a suppression rule is an expression that assigns a value of TRUE or FALSE to the $SUPPRESS property, such that: If TRUE, suppresses the interference. If FALSE or not assigned, does not suppress the interference.

Reserving Properties in Suppression Rules

The suppression rules can refer to predefined reserved properties. The reserved properties relate to the interfering objects whose values are updated to reflect each interference before the

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Examples of Suppression Rules
suppression rules are evaluated. The following table describes these reserved properties: Reserved Property
$INT_TYPE $INT_MODEL $INT_COMMODITY $INT_CLEARANCE $INT_CONNECTION $INT_POINT $SUPPRESS

Description
A String identifying the type of interference as HARD or SOFT. A String containing the name of the JSM file that contains the interfering object. A String containing the name of the commodity of the interfering object. A double-precision decimal number defining the clearance tolerance that the Engine applies when the interference detection is run. A decimal number defining the connection tolerance that the Engine applies when the interference detection is run. A decimal X, Y, Z triplet identifying the model coordinates of the point of interference between two objects. A logical value of TRUE or FALSE indicating whether or not to report the interference.

Temporary Relationship
In addition to these reserved properties, the Engine forms a temporary relationship $INT_OBJECT between each pair of interfering objects so that the properties of the two can be referenced in the rules.

Examples of Suppression Rules

The following two examples show suppression rules that refer to the properties of both objects and to the decision of whether or not to report an interference.

Example 1
IF $Int_Commodity == \$Int_Object\$Int_Commodity AND IN_ARRAY(connect_points,\$Int_Object\ connect_points,0.001) THEN ENDIF $Suppress = TRUE

This rule suppresses the interferences if the interfering objects belong to the same commodity and are connected through

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Checking with Suppression Rules
connect_points. In this example, a tolerance of 0.001 is used to account for the small alignment problems in the model. The JSpace built-in function IN_ARRAY( ) determines whether or not any connection points associated with one object are equal to any connection points associated with the other object.

Example 2
IF name == EQUIPMENT AND AND THEN ENDIF \$Int_Object\name == CONCRETE MINZ(range) - MAXZ(\$Int_Object\range) <= 0

$Suppress = TRUE

This rule suppresses the interferences between EQUIPMENT objects that rest on, or are supported by, CONCRETE objects. The standard JSpace built-in functions MINZ( ) and MAXZ( ) compare the minimum and maximum range values of the two objects.

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An Example of a Suppression Rules (SUP) File

An Example of a Suppression Rules (SUP) File

The following example shows the typical layout of a suppression rules (SUP) file containing several rules.

Reporting Interferences
Each interference that is found and not suppressed is reported. If an object interferes with more than one other object, then a separate interference is reported for each object with which it interferes. The Engine produces the following two reports: The Interference Output (IOF) File The Interference Report (RPT) File

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

Reporting Interferences
To report interferences, you should understand the following topics: Creating Interference Output (IOF) Files on page 3-12 Creating Interference Report (RPT) Files on page 3-14 Visualizing the Reporting Process on page 3-15 Setting Up the Report Options (ROF) File on page 3-16 Reviewing a Customized Interference Report (RPT) File on page 3-18

Creating Interference Output (IOF) Files

The Engine creates and can re-use an interference output file that contains copies of the pairs of interfering objects. JSpace object model files can usually be identified by the JSM file extension. However, for the purposes of interference detection and management, this JSM file is identified by the IOF file extension. Within the interference output (IOF) file, each pair of interfering objects is grouped together as members of a unique INTERFERENCE group object. All interferences that are found during one run of the Engine are related as members of an INTERFERENCE_SET group object. Each successive run of the Engine that uses the same interference output (IOF) file creates a

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Creating Interference Output (IOF) Files
new INTERFERENCE_SET group object. The following diagram explains this process. Relationships of Interference Objects in the IOF

Using the Interference Output (IOF) File

The interference output (IOF) file is used primarily for interactive display, review, and status updating of interferences using the Review module. If you specify the same interference output (IOF) file each time you run the Engine against your model data, the interference output (IOF) file acts as a database of interferences by statusing and reporting on them throughout the life of your project. For example, if you perform another run of the Engine using the same interference output (IOF) file and an interference that was previously statused as Accepted is found again, it is not re-written to the interference output (IOF) file and is not included in the report file. For more information about analyzing interferences, see the chapter Reviewing Interferences in TriForma on page 4-1.
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Reporting Interferences

Creating Interference Report (RPT) Files

The Engine writes a report that documents the details of all interferences found in a run of the Engine. The interference report file is a customizable ASCII text file identified by the RPT file extension. For a sample interference report file, see the section Reviewing a Customized Interference Report (RPT) File on page 3-18.

Data Reported
The interference report (RPT) file provides the following details for each detected interference: A unique number The names of the input JSM files containing the interfering objects The type of the interference as hard or soft The coordinates of the interference point in space The date that the interference was first detected The date that the interference was last updated The current status of the interference

Status Information
The Engine records the status information in the property called STATUS of the INTERFERENCE group object. When the Engine detects a new interference, it adds this STATUS property to the interference output (IOF) file. The STATUS is set to one of four values, such as: Detected When the Engine first finds an interference, it sets the status to Detected. Reviewed Using the Review module, you can set the status of the interference to Reviewed. Accepted Using the Review module, you can set the status of the interference to Accepted. Suppressed If the Engine uses the suppression rules to suppress an existing interference, the Engine sets the status of the interference to Suppressed.

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Visualizing the Reporting Process
The Engine does not write to the interference report (RPT) file any interferences with a status of Accepted or Suppressed. If a suppressed interference is re-detected because of changes in the suppression rules, then that interference is reported and the status is reset to Detected. Also, the interference report (RPT) file provides some standard information about the objects involved in the interferences, such as the name of the JSM file containing the interfering element and the name of the commodity.

Visualizing the Reporting Process

The following diagram shows a decision tree that controls the interference reporting mechanism.

Description of the Process

When the Engine detects an interference, it performs the following sequential operations: Checks the interference output (IOF) file to see if the detected interference exists there

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Reporting Interferences
Applies the suppression rules if the interference is not in the interference output (IOF) file Uses of the following steps if the interference is in the interference output (IOF) file: Checks the interference status Applies the suppression rules if the existing interference is not Accepted Applies suppression rules even if the existing interference has a Suppressed status because the suppression rules (SUP) file may have changed since the original analysis

Setting Up the Report Options (ROF) File

Although the Engine automatically generates the interference report (RPT) file, you can customize the interference report file to display additional information about the interfering objects. Using the report options (ROF) file, you can define the property names and their value expressions for each type of object to be reported. This optional report options file is an ASCII text file identified by the ROF file extension. The general format for a report options (ROF) file is as follows: class_name[1] field_count field_name[1] field_expression[1] field_name[2] field_expression[2] . . field_name[field_count] field_expression[field_count] class_name[2] field_count . . class_name[n] field_count

Where
class_name field_count

Means
The name of the object class to be reported The number of fields for this object class to be reported

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Setting Up the Report Options (ROF) File

Where
field_name field_expression

Means
The descriptive name of the output property An expression containing JSpace object properties used to compute the value of the output field for the object

Sample Report Options (ROF) File

Report Options File (REPORT.ROF)
PHYSICAL_GROUP 1 Name NAME PIPE_GROUP 3 Pipe No. "P" + PIPE_NUM Installed DATE_INSTALLED Purchase Order \PURCHASED_BY\PO_NUM Name of the 1st object class Number of fields to report Field #1 name Field #1 value expression Name of the 2nd object class Number of fields to report Field #1 name Field #1 value expression Field #2 name Field #2 value expression Field #3 name Field #3 value expression

The default report options file, triforma_imperial.rof, has customized reports defined for the delivered MicroStation TriForma and PlantSpace Design Series. A copy of this file is

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Reporting Interferences
located at ...\Workspace\Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\ intmgr\setting.

Reviewing a Customized Interference Report (RPT) File

The following sample interference report (RPT) file was produced from the sample report options file (REPORT.ROF) described in the previous section. The components in the JT_PIPE.JSM model are created from the PIPE_GROUP object class. The components in the JT_ELEC.JSM model are created from the PHYSICAL_GROUP object class. The additional information that comes from setting up options in REPORT.ROF is displayed in bold letters.

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Reviewing a Customized Interference Report (RPT) File
Customized Interference Report File
----------------------------------------------------PSID - Interference Report Version 4.0 04-15-02 ----------------------------------------------------File: C:\project\demo.rpt Date: Thu Apr 27 14:08:45 2002 Analysis results Total number of interferences ... 2 Total process time (hh:mm:ss) ... 0:0:22 Interference output file .. . C:\project\testdemo.io Error log file ............ ..... C:\project\demo.log Graphic review file ..... ....... C:\project\demo.asc Input data: Connection tolerance ......... 0.001000 Report options file .......... report.cfg Suppression rule file ........ new.sup Rule file last modified ...... Tue Apr 11 17:23:48 2002 Active files: Clearance: 0.166667 Self check: no File: C:\project\jt_pipe.jsm Clearance: 0.000000 Self check: no File: C:\project\jt_elec.jsm Passive files: Clearance: 0.000000 Self check: no File: C:\project\jt_equip.jsm Clearance: 0.000000 Self check: no File: C:\project\jt_struc.jsm ----------------------------------------------------Interference 1: Object #1: Filename ... C:\project\jt_elec.jsm Commodity .. Electrical Name .....T12042 Object #2: Filename ... C:\project\jt_pipe.jsm Commodity .. Piping_Feedwater PIPE_NUM .....P00125 INSTALLED ..... Thu Jan 27 11:50:39 2002 PURCHASE_ORDER .....R735 Interference Number: 4 Date Detected: Thu Apr 27 13:55:39 2002 Last Update: Thu Apr 27 14:08:53 2002 Point: -21259.552653, -21410.515188, -21358.320207 Type: Hard Status: Detected (Not Reviewed) ----------------------------------------------------Interference 2: Object #1: Filename ... C:\project\jt_elec.jsm Commodity .. Electrical Name .....T12048 Object #2:

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Reporting Interferences
Filename ... C:\project\jt_pipe.jsm Commodity .. Piping_Feedwater PIPE_NUM .....P00156 INSTALLED ..... Wed Jan 19 13:50:19 2002 PURCHASE_ORDER .....R805 Interference Number: 6 Date Detected: Thu Apr 27 13:55:39 2002 Last Update: Thu Apr 27 14:08:54 2002 Point: -21274.552653, -21410.515188, -21358.320207 Type: Hard Status: Detected (Not Reviewed) --------------------------------------------------

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Navigating the Detection Module

Navigating the Detection Module

This illustration shows how to navigate the Detection module that contains the Bentley Interference Manager Engine, or simply the Engine. The following sections describe the fields and buttons of the dialog boxes.

From the TriForma V8 program group

From within TriForma

Continued on the next page.

* Like MicroStation, the Interference Manager supports the concept of a workspace, which enables you to define different product configurations for different projects. If you have defined multiple workspaces (.pcf files), the Select Project dialog box prompts you to select a project.

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Navigating the Detection Module
.

Continued from the previous page:

Continued on the next page. See Navigating the Setup Module on page 2-2

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Navigating the Detection Module

Continued from the previous pages:

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Navigating the Detection Module
To use the Detection module, you should have a working knowledge of the following: Bentley Interference Manager Engine Dialog Box on page 3-24 Select Interference Set File Dialog Box on page 3-27 Interference Set Manager Dialog Box on page 3-27 Select Interference Results File Dialog Box on page 3-28 Interference Results Manager Dialog Box on page 3-29 Select File To Create Dialog Box on page 3-31 Select dBASE File To Create Dialog Box on page 3-32 Select ASCII File to Create Dialog Box on page 3-33 Delete Interferences Dialog Box on page 3-33 Select Suppression Rules File Dialog Box on page 3-34 Select Report File Dialog Box on page 3-35 Select Report Options File Dialog Box on page 3-36 Select Settings File Dialog Box on page 3-36

Bentley Interference Manager Engine Dialog Box

The Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box enables you to set up and run the Engine. You can open the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box by clicking the Detect

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Bentley Interference Manager Engine Dialog Box
Interferences tool in the Interference Manager tool box. The Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box opens.

Setting
Settings Interference Set File (Browse button) Edit...

Effect
Sets the name of the interference set (DAT) file containing the JSM file names and their associated parameters that the Engine uses. For more information, see the chapter Setting Up Interference Sets on page 2-1. Opens the Select Interference Set File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Interference Set File Dialog Box on page 3-27. Opens the Interference Set Manager dialog box. For more information, see the section Interference Set Manager Dialog Box on page 3-27 and the section Interference Set Manager Dialog Box on page 2-4. Sets the name of the interference output (IOF) file containing the pairs of interfering objects. For more information, see the section Reviewing Interferences in TriForma on page 4-1. Opens the Select Interference Results File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Interference Results File Dialog Box on page 3-28.

Interference Results File

(Browse button)

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Navigating the Detection Module

Setting
Manage...

Effect
Opens the Interference Results Manager dialog box. For more information, see the section Interference Results Manager Dialog Box on page 3-29. Sets the name of the suppression rules (SUP) file containing the suppression rules used to eliminate the reporting of unwanted interferences. For more information, see the section Checking with Suppression Rules on page 3-5. Opens the Select Suppression Rules File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Suppression Rules File Dialog Box on page 3-34. Opens the suppression rules (SUP) file in the default text editor, such as Notepad. Sets the name of the interference report (RPT) file that is written. Opens the Select Report File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Report File Dialog Box on page 3-35.

Suppression Rules File

(Browse button) View... Report File (Browse button) View... Report Options File (Browse button) View... Connection Tolerance Enable File Caching

Opens the interference report (RPT) file in the default text editor, such as Notepad. Sets the name of the report options (ROF) file containing the customized options used to display information in the interference report (RPT) file. Opens the Select Report Options File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Report Options File Dialog Box on page 3-36. Opens the report options (ROF) file in the default text editor, such as Notepad. Sets the allowable distance in model units used to eliminate interferences between components that only touch. The maximum value is 0.125 inches or 3 mm. Controls whether or not to load only two files at the same time to check one against the other for interferences, as follows: If selected, loads only two files. If cleared, loads all files. Enabling file caching reduces memory requirements during processing, but may increase the processing time. Controls whether or not to combine the clearance tolerances of both objects being checked for interferences, as follows: If selected, combines the clearance tolerances of both objects. If cleared, uses the larger clearance tolerance of the two objects. For more information about clearance tolerances, see the section Defining Connection Tolerance on page 3-4. Opens the Select Settings File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Settings File Dialog Box on page 3-36.

Combine Object Clearances

Load Settings...

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Select Interference Set File Dialog Box

Setting
Save Settings...

Effect
Opens the Select Settings File dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Settings File Dialog Box on page 3-36. Starts an interference detection run. Closes the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. Displays informational messages during processing. Indicates the current stage in the process.

Process Exit Messages Status

Select Interference Set File Dialog Box

The Select Interference Set File dialog box enables you to select an interference set (DAT) file. You can open the Select Interference Set File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right of the Interference Set File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Select Interference Set File dialog box opens.

Setting
Look In File Name Files of Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired interference set (DAT) file. Sets the name of the desired interference set (DAT) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as DAT. Selects the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file.

Interference Set Manager Dialog Box

The Interference Set Manager dialog box enables you to modify the Interference Sets. You can open the Interference Set Manager dialog box by clicking the Edit button to the right of the

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Navigating the Detection Module
Interference Set File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Interference Set Manager dialog box opens.

For more information about the menus and fields, see the section Interference Set Manager Dialog Box on page 2-4.

Select Interference Results File Dialog Box

The Select Interference Results File dialog box enables you to select an interference output (IOF) file. You can open the Select Interference Results File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right of the Interference Results File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Select Interference Results File dialog box opens.

Setting
Look In File Name Files of Type

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired interference output (IOF) file. Sets the name of the desired interference output (IOF) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as IOF.

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Interference Results Manager Dialog Box

Setting
Open Cancel

Effect
Selects the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file.

Interference Results Manager Dialog Box

The Interference Results Manager dialog box enables you to report, delete, and export the results of the interference analysis. You can open the Interference Results Manager dialog box by clicking the Manage button to the right of the Interference Results File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Interference Results Manager dialog box opens.

Setting
Options menu Report...

Effect
Opens the Select File to Create dialog box. For more information, see the section Select File To Create Dialog Box on page 3-31. Opens the Select dBASE File to Create dialog box. For more information, see the section Select dBASE File To Create Dialog Box on page 3-32. Opens the Select ASCII File to Create dialog box. For more information, see the section Select ASCII File to Create Dialog Box on page 3-33. Opens the Delete Interferences dialog box. For more information, see the section Delete Interferences Dialog Box on page 3-33. Opens a message box asking you to confirm whether or not you want to delete the selected items. This column provides the unique number assigned to the run.

Export to dBASE IV... Export to ASCII

Delete Analysis...

Delete Interference... Analysis ID

Interference Analysis Run

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Navigating the Detection Module

Setting
Date Total Detected Reviewed Accepted Suppressed

Effect
This column provides the date of the run. This column provides the total number of interferences reported in the run. This column provides the number of detected interferences reported in the run. For more information, see the bulleted paragraph Detected on page 3-14. This column provides the number of reviewed interferences reported in the run. For more information, see the bulleted paragraph Reviewed on page 3-14. This column provides the number of accepted interferences reported in the run. For more information, see the bulleted paragraph Accepted on page 3-14. This column provides the number of suppressed interferences reported in the run. For more information, see the bulleted paragraph Suppressed on page 3-14. This column provides the number of hard interferences reported in the run. For more information, see the section Reporting Hard Interferences on page 3-4. This column provides the number of soft interferences reported in the run. For more information, see the section Reporting Soft Interferences on page 3-4. This column provides the name of the interference set (DAT) file used in the analysis. For more information, see the bulleted table row Interference Set File on page 3-25 and the chapter Setting Up Interference Sets on page 2-1. This column provides the value for the connection tolerance used in the analysis. For more information, see the section Defining Connection Tolerance on page 3-4. This column provides the name of the suppression rules (SUP) file used in the analysis. For more information, see the bulleted table row Suppression Rules File on page 3-26 and the section Checking with Suppression Rules on page 3-5. This column provides a unique identification number for the interference. This column provides the type of interference, as follows: Hard Soft For more information, see the section Reporting Hard Interferences on page 3-4 and the section Reporting Soft Interferences on page 3-4. This column provides the status of the interference, as follows: Detected Reviewed Accepted Suppressed For more information, see the section Status Information on page 3-14. This column provides the coordinates of the point of interference.

Hard Soft Set File

Connection Tolerance

Rules File

Interferences for Analysis Run Number Type

Status

Point

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Select File To Create Dialog Box

Setting
Object 1 Commodity Object 2 Commodity Object 1 File

Effect
This column provides the name of the commodity for Object 1. For more information, see the bulleted table row Set Commodity... on page 2-5 and the section Set Commodity Dialog Box on page 2-9. This column provides the name of the commodity for Object 2. For more information, see the bulleted table row Set Commodity... on page 2-5 and the section Set Commodity Dialog Box on page 2-9. This column provides the name of the interference set (DAT) file containing Object 1. For more information, see the chapter Setting Up Interference Sets on page 2-1. This column provides the name of the interference set (DAT) file containing Object 2. For more information, see the chapter Setting Up Interference Sets on page 2-1. This column provides the date that the interference was first detected. This column provides the date that the interference was last detected. This column provides the name of the reviewer. For more information, see the section Editing the Reviewer, Status, and Comments on page 4-32. This column provides the comment. For more information, see the section Editing the Reviewer, Status, and Comments on page 4-32.

Object 2 File

Date First Detected Date Last Detected Reviewer

Comment

Select File To Create Dialog Box

The Select File To Create dialog box enables you to create a new file interference analysis report. You can open the Select File To Create dialog box by choosing Options > Report from the Interference Results Manager menu bar. The Select File To Create dialog box opens.

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Navigating the Detection Module

Setting
Save In File Name Save as Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the desired directory location for the new interference report (RPT) file. Sets the desired name for the new interference report (RPT) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as RPT. Creates the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without creating the file.

Select dBASE File To Create Dialog Box

The Select dBASE File To Create dialog box enables you to export the interference output (IOF) file to a new dBASE (DBF) file. You can export all the interferences in the interference output (IOF) file or only the interferences currently selected. You can open the Select dBASE File To Create dialog box by choosing Options > Export to dBASE IV from the Interference Results Manager menu bar. The Select dBASE File To Create dialog box opens.

Setting
Save In File Name Save as Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the desired directory location for the new dBASE (DBF) file. Sets the desired name for the new dBASE (DBF) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as DBF. Creates the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without creating the file.

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Select ASCII File to Create Dialog Box

Select ASCII File to Create Dialog Box

The Select ASCII File To Create dialog box enables you to export the interference output (IOF) file to a new ASCII (TXT) file. You can export all interferences in the interference output (IOF) file or only the interferences currently selected. You can open the Select ASCII File To Create dialog box by choosing Options > Export to ASCII from the Interference Results Manager menu bar. The Select ASCII File To Create dialog box opens.

Setting
Save In File Name Save as Type Open Cancel

Effect
Provides the name of the desired directory location for the new ASCII (TXT) file. Provides the desired name for the new ASCII (TXT) file. Provides the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as TXT. Creates the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without creating the file.

Delete Interferences Dialog Box

The Delete Interferences dialog box enables you to remove interferences from the interferences results (IOF) file. You can open the Delete Interferences dialog box by choosing Options >

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Navigating the Detection Module
Delete Analysis from the Interference Results Manager menu bar. The Delete Interferences dialog box opens.

Setting
Delete Interferences of the Following Status

Effect
Identifies interferences of the selected status, such as: Detected Reviewed Accepted Suppressed For more information, see the section Status Information on page 3-14. Displays the status of the deletion process. Removes selected interferences from the interferences results (IOF) file.

Interferences Deleted Delete

Select Suppression Rules File Dialog Box

The Select Suppression Rules File dialog box enables you to select a suppression rules (SUP) file. You can open the Select Suppression Rules File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right of the Suppression Rules File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Select Suppression Rules File dialog box opens.

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Select Report File Dialog Box

Setting
Look In File Name Files of Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired suppression rules (SUP) file. Sets the name of the desired suppression rules (SUP) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as SUP. Selects the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file.

Select Report File Dialog Box

The Select Report File dialog box enables you to select a file in which to save the report of the interferences. You can open the Select Report File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right of the Report File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Select Report File dialog box opens.

Setting
Save In File Name Files of Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired interference report (RPT) file. Sets the name of the desired interference report (RPT) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as RPT. Selects the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file.

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Navigating the Detection Module

Select Report Options File Dialog Box

The Select Report Options File dialog box enables you to select a report options (ROF) file. You can open the Select Report Options File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right of the Report Options File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Select Report Options File dialog box opens.

Setting
Look In File Name Files of Type Open Cancel

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired report options (ROF) file. Sets the name of the desired report options (ROF) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as ROF. Selects the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file.

Select Settings File Dialog Box

The Select Settings File dialog box enables you to save and re-use settings. You can open the Select Settings File dialog box by clicking the Load Settings button or the Save Settings button in the

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Using a Text Editor
Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. The Select Settings File dialog box opens.

Setting
Look In File Name

Effect
Sets the name of the directory location of the desired settings file. Sets the name of the settings (IMP) file used in a previous run of interference detection or the name of the settings (IMP) file of the current run of interference detection. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as IMP. Selects the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file.

Files of Type Open Cancel

Using a Text Editor

You can open a standard text editor to view the contents of the files used in an interference analysis, such as: Interference Set (DAT) file Suppression Rules (SUP) file Interference Report (RPT) file Report Options (ROF) file

Before you run the Engine, you can specify the text editor that you want to use by defining the JS_TEXT_EDITOR configuration variable. By default, JS_TEXT_EDITOR is set to Notepad.

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine

The Engine enables you to check for interferences. You can run the Engine in one of three ways: Using a Graphical Menu on page 3-38 Using a Graphical Menu and Saved Settings on page 3-43 Using a Command Line on page 3-44

Using a Graphical Menu

You can open the Bentley Interference Manager Engine from the TriForma V8 program group or from within TriForma.

To run the Engine using a menu

1. In TriForma, open the Interference Manager.

As necessary, see the procedure To start and quit the Interference Manager on page 1-7.
2. In the Interference Manager tool box, click the Detect Interferences tool.

If TriForma is not open, you can also click the Interference Manager Engine icon in the TriForma V8 program group. The Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box opens.

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Using a Graphical Menu
3. In the Interference Set File field, type the name of an interference set (DAT) file.

If you want to locate a interference set (DAT) file electronically, you can click the browse button. The name of the interference set (DAT) file is displayed along with the names of the default interference output (IOF) file and interference report (RPT) file.
4. To locate a desired interference output (IOF) file other than the default one, click the browse button to the right of the Interference Results File field. 5. To locate a desired interference report (RPT) file other than the default one, click the browse button to the right of the Report File field. 6. To use suppression rules, type the name of a suppression rules (SUP) file in the Suppression Rules File field.

If you want to locate a suppression rules (SUP) file electronically, you can click the browse button to the right of the Suppression Rules File field.
7. To specify a format configuration for the report, type the name of a report options (ROF) file in the Report Options File field.

If you want to locate a report options (ROF) file electronically, you can click the browse button to the right of the Report Options File field.
8. At the Connection Tolerance field, type a number in the units of the model file.

For more information about connection tolerances, see the bulleted table row Connection Tolerance on page 3-26 and the section Defining Connection Tolerance on page 3-4.
9. If desired, select one or both of the following check boxes:

Enable File Caching For more information about file caching, see the bulleted table row Enable File Caching on page 3-26. Combine Object Clearances For more information about object clearances, see the bulleted table row Combine Object Clearances on page 3-26 and the section Defining Clearance Tolerance on page 3-5.

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine
10. To save the settings to re-use them for another run of interference detection, use the following steps:

Click Save Settings The Select Settings File dialog box opens.

In the Look In field, select the desired directory In the File Name field, type the desired file name, such as NEW.IMP In the File of Type drop-down list box, select IMP Click Open If you do not want to save the settings, you can click the Cancel button. If you click the Open button, the settings are saved for future use.

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Using a Graphical Menu
11. Click Process.

The Messages list box displays the results of each stage of the processing. The status line below the list box indicates the stages in the process through to completion.

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine
12. To view the report, click View to the right of Report File field in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box.

The following sample report file is displayed in Notepad, the default text editor.

13. After you have finished reviewing it, choose File > Exit from the Notepad menu bar to close this file. 14. To exit the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box, click Exit.

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Using a Graphical Menu and Saved Settings

Using a Graphical Menu and Saved Settings

You can run the Bentley Interference Manager Engine from a graphical menu using previously defined settings.

To run the Engine using a menu and saved settings

1. In TriForma, open the Interference Manager.

For more information, see the procedure To start and quit the Interference Manager on page 1-7.
2. In the Interference Manager tool box, click the Detect Interference tool.

If TriForma is not open, you can click the Interference Manager Engine icon in the TriForma V8 program group.
3. In the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box, click Load Settings.

The Select Settings File dialog box opens.

4. To select a saved settings (IMP) file, use the following steps:

In the Look In field, select the desired directory In the File Name field, specify the desired settings (IMP) file, such as NEW.IMP In the Files of Type drop-down list box, select IMP Click Open If you do not want to open the file, you can click the Cancel button. If you click the Open button, the settings are loaded for the next run.

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Running the Bentley Interference Manager Engine
5. As desired, modify the other settings in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. 6. Click Process. 7. To exit the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box, click the Exit button.

Using a Command Line

If you prefer to work from a command line, you can perform the same operations as those in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box by entering command line parameters. This procedure is useful for batch processing.

Command Line Format

At the DOS command prompt, or within a DOS batch file, you can type the name of the executable application for the Engine followed by the command line parameters. The format is:
intmgr [parameters...]

You may need to specify the full directory path to the intmgr.exe
executable file, or you can place it into your PATH environment variable.

Description of Parameters
The following table describes the parameters that you can specify on the command line to run the Engine: Parameter
-s Interference set file

Effect
Sets the name of the interference set (DAT) file that lists the JSM files and their parameters to be used in the interference check. You can create and edit the interference set (DAT) file by using the Interference Set Manager dialog box. For more information, see the chapter Setting Up Interference Sets on page 2-1. This parameter is required. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat Sets the name of the interference output (IOF) file to be used. This binary JSM file groups each pair of interfering elements together into an INTERFERENCE group object. If the specified interference output (IOF) file does not exist, the Engine creates a new interference output (IOF) file with the given name. This parameter is optional. Note: If you do not specify the name of an interference output (IOF) file, the Engine creates a temporary file named PSID.IOF, which is not saved at the end of the interference check. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -o proj1.iof

-o Interference results file

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Using a Command Line

Parameter
-p Output file prefix

Effect
Sets the name for the interference report (RPT) file. The RPT file extension is added automatically. This name is also used as the name of a log (LOG) file that records any errors encountered during the run of the Engine. This parameter is optional. Note: If you do not specify an interference report (RPT) file name, the Engine creates an interference report (RPT) file with the same name as your interference set (DAT) file. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -o proj1.iof -p proj1 Sets the connection tolerance that the Engine uses during the interference check. Specifying a connection tolerance eliminates interferences between components that only touch. This parameter is optional. Note: The connection tolerance should not exceed a maximum value of 0.125 inches or 3 mm. The units must be consistent with those used for the clearance tolerances and for the model files. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -o proj1.iof -c .05 Sets the name for the suppression rules (SUP) file that the Engine uses to determine whether or not it should suppress detected interferences. This parameter is optional. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -o proj1.iof -x my_rules.sup Sets the name for the report options (ROF) file that contains information for configuring the ASCII interference report (RPT) file that the Engine creates. This parameter is optional. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -o proj1.iof -a my_rpt.rof Specifies that the Engine should produce a report of all interferences in the interference output (IOF) file. The name of the interference report (RPT) file has the same name as the interference output (IOF) file. This parameter is optional and has no arguments. Note: If you want to produce a full report, you should specify the -o parameter before the -d parameter. Example: intmgr -o proj1 -d and intmgr -o project.iof -d -a my_rpt.cfg Enables file caching to reduce memory requirements for interference detection and to make it possible to check large sets of model files with limited memory. This parameter is optional and has no arguments. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -fc Combines the clearance tolerances of both objects being checked for interferences. This parameter is optional and has no arguments. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -t

-c Connection tolerance

-x Suppression rules file -a Report options file -d Full interference report

-fc Enable file caching -t Combine object clearances

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Parameter
-i Combine all parameters

Effect
Enables you to combine other parameters by defining the name of an ASCII input file that contains a list of parameters and their values. If you combine parameters, you can define values and then call these values by entering the -i parameter followed by the name of the input file. This parameter is optional. Example: intmgr -i my_params.inp Displays or echoes progress messages in the Interference Manager Engine dialog box as the Engine runs. The Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box automatically closes when the process is complete. This parameter is optional and has no arguments. Example: intmgr -s my_set.dat -o proj1.iof -e

-e Echo

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Reviewing Interferences in TriForma

After the Bentley Interference Manager Engine finishes its analysis, you can review the results. This chapter explains how to review your interference output (IOF) file in TriForma.

Understanding the Review Process

The Review module enables you to review the output of the interference detection that is stored in the interference output file identified by the IOF file extension. The review process provides review capabilities, such as displaying the interferences, adding comments, marking the interferences as Accepted, viewing a summary of the analysis, and creating and building a seed file to plot the interferences. This chapter discusses the following two topics: Navigating the Review Module in TriForma on page 4-2 Reviewing Interferences on page 4-23

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma

Navigating the Review Module in TriForma

The following illustration shows how to navigate the Review module. The following sections describe the fields and buttons of the dialog boxes.

See Using the Interference Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-20

See Using the Settings Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-14 See Using the File Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-7

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Interference Reviewer Tool Box
To use the Interference Reviewer dialog box, you should have a working knowledge of the following areas: Interference Reviewer Tool Box on page 4-3 Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-4 Using the File Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-7 Using the Settings Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-14 Using the Interference Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box on page 4-20

Interference Reviewer Tool Box

The Interference Reviewer tool box enables you to view drawings of interferences, show details, edit interferences, and mark interferences as Accepted. You can simultaneously open the Interference Reviewer tool box and the Interference Reviewer dialog box by clicking the Review Interferences tool in the Interference Manager tool box. The Interference Reviewer tool box opens.

Tool

Name
Draw Selected

Effect
Draws the selected interference in all open windows with the options that are set in the Review Options dialog box. Draws the interference previous to the current interference in the Interference Reviewer dialog box in all open windows with the options that are set in the Review Options dialog box. Draws the interference that follows the current interference in the Interference Reviewer dialog box in all open windows with the options that are set in the Review Options dialog box. Draws all interferences in all open windows with the options that are set in the Review Options dialog box.

Draw Previous

Draw Next

Draw All

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Tool

Name
Hilite Selected

Effect
Draws the selected interference in the current highlight color in all open windows with the options that are set in the Review Options dialog box. Opens the Show Interference Details dialog box. For more information, see the section Show Interference Details Dialog Box on page 4-21. Opens the Edit Interference dialog box. For more information, see the section Edit Interference Dialog Box on page 4-22. Opens a message box asking whether or not you want to set the status of the selected interferences to Accepted. For more information, see the section Marking Interferences as Accepted on page 4-34.

Show Details

Edit Interference

Accept Interferences

Interference Reviewer Dialog Box

The Interference Reviewer dialog box lists the interferences that were detected during the most recent run of the interference analysis. Also, in the Interference Reviewer dialog box, you can select interferences from previous runs of interference analysis. You can simultaneously open the Interference Reviewer dialog box and the Interference Reviewer tool box by clicking the

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Interference Reviewer Dialog Box
Review Interferences tool in the Interference Manager tool box. The Interference Reviewer dialog box opens.

Setting
File menu Open...

Effect
Opens the Open Interference Results File dialog box. For more information, see the section Open Interference Results File Dialog Box on page 4-8. Saves the current interference output (IOF) file with your updates. Opens a message box asking whether or not you want to close the open Interference Results File. Opens the Select Interference Analysis dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Interference Analysis Dialog Box on page 4-9. Opens the Plot Interferences dialog box. For more information, see the section Plot Interferences Dialog Box on page 4-9. Opens the Name Seed File dialog box. For more information, see the section Name Seed File Dialog Box on page 4-11. Opens a message box asking whether or not you want to close the Interference Reviewer dialog box. If you made changes to the interference output (IOF) file, the Interference Manager prompts you to save the changes. Opens the Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Auto Zoom Windows Dialog Box on page 4-15. Opens the Review Options dialog box. For more information, see the section Review Options Dialog Box on page 4-15.

Save Close... Select Analysis...

Plot Interferences... Create Plot Seed File... Exit...

Settings menu Auto Zoom...

Review Options...

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Setting
Filter Interferences... Save Settings Interference menu Show Details...

Effect
Opens the Filter Interferences dialog box. For more information, see the section Filter Interferences Dialog Box on page 4-18. Saves the modifications in the settings to the user preference file. Opens the Show Interference Details dialog box. For more information, see the section Show Interference Details Dialog Box on page 4-21. Opens the Edit Interference dialog box. For more information, see the section Edit Interference Dialog Box on page 4-22. Opens a message box asking whether or not you want to set the status of the selected interference to Accepted. For more information, see the section Marking Interferences as Accepted on page 4-34. Provides the name and directory location for the interference output (IOF) file. Provides the ID number, set name, and date of the interference analysis whose interferences are listed in the Interferences list box. This list box identifies the interferences detected during the selected analysis. This column provides a unique identification number for each interference. This column provides the type of interference, as follows: Hard Soft This column provides the status of the interference, as follows: Detected Reviewed Accepted Suppressed This column provides the name of the reviewer. This column provides the comment of the reviewer. Provides the unique number that identifies the selected interference from the current run of interference detection. Provides the total number of interferences found during the current run of interference detection.

Edit... Accept...

File Analysis Interferences ID Type

Status

Reviewer Comment Interference ID Total Interferences

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Using the File Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box

Using the File Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma
To use the File menu of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, you should become familiar with the following topics: Open Interference Results File Dialog Box on page 4-8 Select Interference Analysis Dialog Box on page 4-9 Plot Interferences Dialog Box on page 4-9 Select a File in the Output Directory Dialog Box on page 4-10 Name Seed File Dialog Box on page 4-11 Create Plot Seed File Dialog Box on page 4-12

Open Interference Results File Dialog Box

The Open Interference Results File dialog box enables you to locate an interference output (IOF) file. You can open the Open Interference Results File dialog box by choosing File > Open from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Open Interference Results File dialog box opens.

Setting
Files Directories List Files of Type Drives OK Cancel Help

Effect
Sets the name of the desired interference output (IOF) file. Sets the name of the directory location of the desired interference output (IOF) file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as IOF. Sets the name of the drive selected from the drop-down list box. Opens the selected file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without opening the selected file. Opens Help for MicroStation V8.

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Select Interference Analysis Dialog Box

Select Interference Analysis Dialog Box

The Select Interference Analysis dialog box enables you to select different interference analysis runs that are contained in the interference output (IOF) file. By default, the Interference Reviewer dialog box displays the interferences from the most recent run of the interference analysis. You can open the Select Interference Analysis dialog box by choosing File > Select Analysis from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Select Interference Analysis dialog box opens.

Setting
Analyses ID Set Name Date OK Cancel

Effect
Provides the unique number assigned to an Interference Set that resulted from an interference detection run. Provides the name of the interference set (DAT) file. Provides the date and time of the interference detection run. Accepts your selection and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without opening the selected file.

Plot Interferences Dialog Box

The Plot Interferences dialog box enables you to set up and plot interferences. You can open the Plot Interferences dialog box by

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choosing File > Plot Interferences from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Plot Interferences dialog box opens.

Setting
Interferences to Plot Selected All View Port 1 View Port 2 View Port 3

Effect
Plots the selected interferences. Plots all interferences. Displays from View Port 1 the visible lines of an element (polygon display with hidden lines removed). Displays from View Port 2 the visible lines of an element (polygon display with hidden lines removed). Displays from View Port 3 the visible lines of an element (polygon display with hidden lines removed). Sets the name of the desired directory location for the plot files. Opens the Select a File in the Output Directory dialog box. For more information, see the section Select a File in the Output Directory Dialog Box on page 4-10. Creates the plots.

View Ports to Render in Hidden Line

Plot File Output Directory <open field> Browse

Plot

Select a File in the Output Directory Dialog Box

The Select a File in the Output Directory dialog box enables you to select a file. You can open the Select a File in the Output Directory dialog box by clicking the Browse button in the Plot

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Name Seed File Dialog Box
File Output Directory section of the Plot Interferences dialog box. The Select a File in the Output Directory dialog box opens.

Setting
Files Directories List Files of Type Drives OK Cancel Help

Effect
Sets the name for the desired file. Sets the name for the directory location of the desired file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box. Sets the name of the drive selected from the drop-down list box. Select the desired file and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without selecting the file. Opens Help for MicroStation V8.

Name Seed File Dialog Box

The Name Seed File dialog box enables you to name a new seed file. You can open the Name Seed File dialog box by choosing

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma
File > Create Plot Seed File from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Name Seed File dialog box opens.

Setting
Files Directories List Files of Type Drives OK Cancel Help

Effect
Sets the desired name for the seed file that you want to create. Sets the name for the directory location for the desired seed file. Sets the name of the file type selected from the drop-down list box, such as JSD. The JSD file extension is typically used to indicate that a JSM file is a seed file. Sets the name of the drive selected from the drop-down list box. Opens the Create Plot Seed File dialog box and closes this dialog box. Closes this dialog box without opening the Create Plot Seed File dialog box. Opens Help for MicroStation V8.

Create Plot Seed File Dialog Box

The Create Plot Seed File dialog box enables you to create a plot seed file that defines the layout of information for plotting. You can open the Create Plot Seed File dialog box by selecting a new

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Create Plot Seed File Dialog Box
name for the seed file in the Name Seed File dialog box. The Create Plot Seed File dialog box opens.

Setting
Item Location Tools Interference Details File Details Object 1 Details Object 2 Details View Ports View Port Rotation View Port 1

Effect
Places an area in the plot for interference details. This field is required. Places an area in the plot for file details. This field is required. Places an area in the plot for the details of Object 1. Places an area in the plot for the details of Object 2. Places view ports in the plot. This field is required. Controls the orientation of the plot for View Port 1, as follows: Top Bottom Front Back Left Right Iso Controls the orientation of the plot for View Port 2, like View Port 1. Controls the orientation of the plot for View Port 3, like View Port 1. Accepts the settings and builds the seed file. Closes the dialog box without accepting the changes.

View Port 2 View Port 3 Done Cancel

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Using the Settings Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box

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Select Auto Zoom Windows Dialog Box
To use the Settings menu of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, you should become familiar with the following topics: Select Auto Zoom Windows Dialog Box on page 4-15 Review Options Dialog Box on page 4-15 Select Report Options File Dialog Box on page 4-17 Name Seed File Dialog Box on page 4-18 Filter Interferences Dialog Box on page 4-18

Select Auto Zoom Windows Dialog Box

The Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box enables you to select the windows in which you want to zoom in on the interfering objects. You can open the Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box by choosing Settings > Auto Zoom from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box opens.

Setting
Windows (1 to 8)

Effect
Identifies the windows displaying the interference to which the view automatically zooms.

Review Options Dialog Box

The Review Options dialog box enables you to specify the manner in which you want to review the interferences. You can open the Review Options dialog box by choosing Settings >

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma
Review Options from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Review Options dialog box opens.

Setting
Display Symbology Color Weight

Effect
Sets the color selected from the color palette to display hard interferences and soft interferences for Object 1 and Object 2. Sets the thickness of the line for hard and soft interferences. Each number range from 0 to 15 represents the same relative weight selection as in MicroStation ranging from a very thin line to a very thick line, such as:

By default, Weight is set to the active line weight.

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Select Report Options File Dialog Box

Setting
Line Style

Effect
Sets the style of the line for hard and soft interferences, such as dashed or solid. Each number ranging from 0 to 7 represents the same line style selection as in MicroStation, such as solid or dashed line.

By default, Line Style is set to the active line style. Object Origin At Global Origin Design Cube Center Report Options File <field> Browse Sets the name of the report options (ROF) file. Opens the Select Report Options File dialog box. For more information, see the sections Select Report Options File Dialog Box on page 4-17 and Select Report Options File Dialog Box on page 3-36. Sets the name of the plot seed file. Opens the Name Seed File dialog box. For more information, see the section Name Seed File Dialog Box on page 4-11. Accepts your changes and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without accepting your changes. Sets the origin so that the interfering objects display relative to the global origin defined in the design file. Sets the origin so that the interfering objects display relative to the origin of the design cube. By default, Object Origin is set to Design Cube Center.

Plot Seed File <field> Browse Apply Cancel

Select Report Options File Dialog Box

The Select Report Options File dialog box enables you to select a report options (ROF) file. You can open the Select Report Options File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right in the Report Options File section of the Review Options dialog box. For more information, see the section Select Report Options File Dialog Box on page 3-36.

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma

Name Seed File Dialog Box

The Name Seed File dialog box enables you to name a new seed file. You can open the Name Seed File dialog box by clicking the browse button to the right in the Plot Seed File section of the Review Options dialog box. For more information, see the section Name Seed File Dialog Box on page 4-11.

Filter Interferences Dialog Box

The Filter Interferences dialog box enables you to limit the current interference list to the interferences satisfying the specified criteria. You can open the Filter Interferences dialog box by choosing Settings > Filter Interferences from the Interference Reviewer menu bar. The Filter Interferences dialog box opens.

Setting
Filter By Type

Effect
Controls the types of interferences included in the analysis. If selected, the current interference list includes interferences of the selected types, as follows: Hard Soft For more information, see the sections Reporting Hard Interferences on page 3-4 and Reporting Soft Interferences on page 3-4. Controls the statuses of the interferences included in the analysis. If selected, the current interference list includes interferences of the selected statuses, as follows: Detected = Interferences found during interference detection Reviewed = Interferences viewed Accepted = Interferences allowed Suppressed = Interferences unreported using links or the suppression rules (SUP) file For more information, see the section Status Information on page 3-14.

Status

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Filter Interferences Dialog Box

Setting
Date

Effect
Controls the dates of the interferences included in the analysis. If selected, the current interference list includes interferences relative to the selected date, as follows: > = greater than >= = greater than or equal to == = equal to <= = less than or equal to < = less than Controls the interferences included in the analysis based on a JSpace expression. If selected, the current interference list includes interferences that satisfy the specified expression. For more information on JSpace expressions, see the JSpace Concepts and Technical Reference document. Applies the selected filters to the list of interferences.

Expression

Apply

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma

Using the Interference Menu from the Interference Reviewer Dialog Box

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Show Interference Details Dialog Box
To use the Interference menu of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, you should become familiar with the following topics: Show Interference Details Dialog Box on page 4-21 Edit Interference Dialog Box on page 4-22

Show Interference Details Dialog Box

The Show Interference Details dialog box enables you to review a summary of the selected interference. The information that is contained in the Show Interference Details dialog box is controlled by the report options (ROF) file. You can open the Show Interference Details dialog box by selecting an interference in the Interference Reviewer dialog box and then choosing Interference > Show Details from the menu bar. Also, you can open the Show Interference Details dialog box by selecting an interference in the Interference Reviewer dialog box and then clicking the Show Details tool on the Interference Reviewer tool box. The Show Interference Details dialog box opens.

Setting
Field Value Close

Effect
Provides the name of the property of the selected interference. Provides the value of the property of the selected interference. Closes the dialog box.

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Navigating the Review Module in TriForma

Edit Interference Dialog Box

The Edit Interference dialog box enables you to add or modify the name of the reviewer, the status, and the comment for a selected interference. You can open the Edit Interference dialog box by selecting an interference in the Interference Reviewer dialog box and then choosing Interference > Edit from the menu bar. Also, you can open the Edit Interference dialog box by selecting an interference in the Interference Reviewer dialog box and then clicking the Edit Interference tool on the Interference Reviewer tool box. The Edit Interference dialog box opens.

Setting
Interference ID Reviewer Status

Effect
Provides the unique number of the interference selected in the Interference Reviewer dialog box. Sets the name of the user editing the interference. Controls the status of the interference, as follows: Detected = Interference found during interference detection Reviewed = Interference viewed Accepted = Interference allowed Suppressed = Interference suppressed using the suppression rules (SUP) file By default, Status is set to Detected. Sets optional comments about the interference. Accepts your changes and closes the dialog box. Closes the dialog box without accepting your changes.

Comment OK Cancel

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Reviewing Interferences

Reviewing Interferences
Reviewing interferences involves the following processes: Displaying Interferences on page 4-23 Customizing the View on page 4-26 Editing the Reviewer, Status, and Comments on page 4-32 Marking Interferences as Accepted on page 4-34 Viewing the Details of Interferences on page 4-35 Building Default Seed Files on page 4-36 Plotting Interferences on page 4-39

Displaying Interferences
You can display the hard and soft interferences that the Engine detected.

To display interferences
1. In TriForma, open the Interference Manager.

As necessary, see the procedure To start and quit the Interference Manager on page 1-7.

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Reviewing Interferences
2. In the Interference Manager tool box, click the Review Interferences tool.

Interference Reviewer tool box and Interference Reviewer dialog box are displayed. Interference Reviewer Tool Box Interference Reviewer Dialog Box

3. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose File > Open.

The Open Interference Results File dialog box opens.

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Displaying Interferences
4. To specify an interference output (IOF) file, use the following steps:

In the Files field, type the desired file name identified by the IOF file extension, such as TRIFORMA_IMPERIAL.IOF In the Directories text box, select the desired directory In the List Files of Type drop-down list box, select IOF In the Drives drop-down list box, select the desired drive Click OK If you do not want to open the file, you can click the Cancel button. If you click the OK button, the Interference Reviewer dialog box is displayed with all the interferences from the most recent run of interference analysis for the selected file.

5. To display the currently selected interference, perform one of the following operations:

Using the Interference Reviewer tool box with an interference already selected, such as the first interference, click the Draw Selected tool In the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, select an interference

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Reviewing Interferences
6. To display the next interference, perform one of the following operations:

Using the Interference Reviewer tool box, click the Draw Next tool In the Interference Reviewer dialog box, select the next interference in the Interferences list box
7. To display the previous interference, perform one of the following operations:

Using the Interference Reviewer tool box, click the Draw Previous tool In the Interference Reviewer dialog box, select the previous interference in the Interferences list box
8. To display a particular interference, use the following steps:

In the Interference ID field of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, type the ID number of the desired interference Press the <Enter> key
9. To display the selected interference in the current highlight color, click the Hilite Selected tool in the Interference Reviewer tool box. 10. To display all interferences in all windows, click the Display All tool in the Interference Reviewer tool box.

Customizing the View

Customizing your view of interferences involves the following processes: Setting Automatic Zooming on page 4-26 Selecting Review Options on page 4-27 Specifying Filters on page 4-30 Saving settings this process is combined with each of the previous processes.

Setting Automatic Zooming

You can set automatic zooming on up to eight windows for a selected interference.

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Customizing the View To set automatic zooming
1. Continuing from the previous procedure, choose Settings > Auto Zoom from the Interference Reviewer menu bar.

The Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box opens.

2. Select the windows in which you want to automatically zoom to the selected object, as follows:

If selected, Auto Zoom is enabled. If cleared, Auto Zoom is disabled.

3. Close the Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box. 4. To view the results, click the interference in the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

Also, using the Interference Reviewer tool box with an interference already selected, you can click the Draw Selected tool.
5. To save these settings in the interference output (IOF) file, choose Settings > Save Settings from the Interference Reviewer menu bar.

Selecting Review Options

You can set the review options to modify the displayed color, line weight, and line style of the interfering elements. Also, you can select your object origin, report options (ROF) file, and plot seed file.

To set the review options

1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

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Reviewing Interferences
2. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose Settings > Review Options.

The Review Options dialog box opens.

3. To display the interfering elements in a particular color, use the following steps:

In the Display Symbology section of the Review Options dialog box, select Color If Color is selected, a color palette for Object 1 and for Object 2 is enabled. To display the color palette, click the color block You can set different colors for the hard and soft interferences of a pair of objects that are interfering. For either a hard or soft interference, or for both, select the desired color from the color palette for Object 1

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Customizing the View
In the same manner, select the desired colors for Object 2 To view the results, click an interference in the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box
4. To set the line weight of the interfering elements, use the following steps:

In the Display Symbology section of the Review Options dialog box, select Weight If Weight is selected, the Hard and Soft fields are enabled. For either a hard or soft interference, or for both, type a number between 0 and 15 in the text box For more information about line weight, see the bulleted table row Weight on page 4-16. To view the results, click an interference in the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box
5. To set the line style of the interfering elements, use the following steps:

In the Display Symbology section of the Review Options dialog box, select Line Style If Line Style is selected, the Hard and Soft fields are enabled. For either a hard or soft interference, or for both, type a number between 0 and 7 in the text box For more information about line style, see the bulleted table row Line Style on page 4-17. To view the results, click an interference in the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box
6. To set the object origin in the Object Origin At section, select one of the following:

Global Origin Design Cube Center For more information about object units, see the bulleted table rows Global Origin on page 4-17 and Design Cube Center on page 4-17.

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Reviewing Interferences
7. In the Report Options File section, type the name of the desired report options (ROF) file.

If you want to locate an report options (ROF) file electronically, you can click the browse button.
8. In the Plot Seed File section, type the name of the desired plot seed (JSD) file.

If you want to locate a plot seed (JSD) file electronically, you can click the browse button.
9. To accept the selected options and close the Review Options dialog box, click Apply.

If you do not want to apply the options, you can click the Cancel button.
10. To save these settings in the current user-preference file, choose Settings > Save Settings from the Interference Reviewer menu bar.

Specifying Filters
You can specify filters to reduce the number of interferences displayed in the interference list.

To filter the interferences

1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

2. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose Settings > Filter Interferences.

The Filter Interferences dialog box opens.

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Customizing the View
3. To include interferences of a specific type, use the following steps:

Select Type If Type is selected, the Hard and Soft check boxes are enabled. Select one or both of the following interference types: Hard Soft For more information on types of interferences, see the sections Reporting Hard Interferences on page 3-4 and Reporting Soft Interferences on page 3-4.
4. To include interferences of a specific status, use the following steps:

Select Status If Status is selected, the four check boxes are enabled. Select one or more of the following interference status categories: Detected Reviewed Accepted Suppressed For more information on statuses, see the bulleted table row Status on page 4-18.
5. To include interferences of a specific date when the interference was detected, use the following steps:

Select Date If Date is selected, the operators and the field are enabled. Select one or more of the following comparison operators: > = greater than >= = greater than or equal to == = equal to <= = less than or equal to < = less than In the Date field, type a date For more information on the dates of the interferences, see the bulleted table row Date on page 4-19.

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Reviewing Interferences
6. To include interferences satisfying a JSpace expression, use the following steps:

Select Expression If Expression is selected, the field is enabled. In the Expression field, type a JSpace expression For more information on JSpace expressions, see the JSpace Concepts and Technical Reference document.
7. Click Apply.

If you do not want to apply the changes, you can close the Filter Interferences dialog box. If you click the Apply button, the Interference Manager updates the interferences displayed in the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box.
8. To save these settings in the user preference file, choose Settings > Save Settings from the Interference Reviewer menu bar.

Editing the Reviewer, Status, and Comments

You can edit the name of the reviewer, the status of the interference, and the comments to an interference.

To edit the reviewer, status, and comments

1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

2. In the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, select an interference.

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Editing the Reviewer, Status, and Comments
3. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose Interference > Edit.

Also, you can click the Edit Interference tool from the Interference Reviewer tool box. The Edit Interference dialog box opens.

4. In the Reviewer field, type your name. 5. To change the status of the interference in the Status dropdown list box, select one of the following options:

Reviewed If you change the status to Reviewed, the Interference Manager will report the interference in future analyses. Accepted If you change the status to Accepted, the Interference Manager will not report the interference.
6. In the Comment list box, type a comment.

The Edit Interference dialog box is displayed with the additional information.

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Reviewing Interferences
7. Click OK.

If you do not want to accept the changes that you made, you can click the Cancel button. If you click OK, the changes are reflected in the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

Marking Interferences as Accepted

After you review the interference, you may find that some of the interferences are acceptable. If you do not want the acceptable interferences to appear in future analysis runs, you can set the status to Accepted.

To mark an interference as Accepted

1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

2. In the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, select an interference. 3. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose Interference > Accept.

Also, you can click the Accept Interferences tool in the Interference Reviewer tool box. The message box asks whether or not you want to change the status of the selected interference to Accepted.

4. To mark the interference as Accepted, click Yes.

If you do not want to mark the interference as Accepted, you can click the No button. If you click the Yes button, the interference is marked as Accepted.

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Reviewing Interferences in TriForma

Viewing the Details of Interferences

Viewing the Details of Interferences

You can view the comments and status, as well as the properties, of a single interference.

To view the details of an interference

1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

2. In the Interferences list box of the Interference Reviewer dialog box, select an interference. 3. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose Interference > Show Details.

Also, you can click the Show Details tool in the Interference Reviewer tool box. The Show Interference Details dialog box opens.

4. After you view the details, click Close.

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Reviewing Interferences

Building Default Seed Files

Although the Review module provides a default seed file with a standard page layout that you can use for plotting interferences, you can build your own seed file. After you create a seed file, you can use it as the default seed file for your work site. Building a default seed file involves the following processes: Naming the plot seed file Selecting a plot drive Selecting the desired settings

To build a seed file

1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

2. From the Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose File > Create Plot Seed File.

The Name Seed File dialog box opens.

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Building Default Seed Files
3. To name a Seed File, use the following steps:

In the Files field, type the desired file name identified by the JSD file extension, such as NEW.JSD In the Directories text box, select the desired directory In the List Files of Type drop-down list box, select JSD In the Drives drop-down list box, select the desired drive Click OK If you do not want to create the seed file, you can click the Cancel button. If you click the OK button, the file is created. The Create Plot Seed File dialog box opens. A blank design file is displayed in the background.

4. To select an orientation for the view ports in the View Port Rotation section, use the following steps:

For View Port 1, select an orientation from the drop-down list box. For View Port 2, select an orientation from the drop-down list box. For View Port 3, select an orientation from the drop-down list box.

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5. In the Item Location Tools section, use the following steps:

Click each button that represents an item that you want to include, such as: Interference Details File Details Object 1 Details Object 2 Details View Ports Place the mouse pointer on the blank design file Drag the cursor to the size that you want A sample placement of the items represented by the buttons is displayed in the following diagram. LETTER View Ports and View Port Rotation Object 1 Details Object 2 Details Interference Details

File Details

6. Click Done.

If you do not want to create the seed file, you can click the Cancel button. If you click the Done button, the seed file is saved in the Select Seed File dialog box.

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Plotting Interferences

Plotting Interferences
After you select the seed file, the output method, and the report configuration, you can plot the interferences.

To plot an interference
1. Continue with the interferences listed in the Interference Reviewer dialog box.

As necessary, see the procedure To display interferences on page 4-23.

2. From Interference Reviewer menu bar, choose File > Plot Interferences.

The Plot Interferences dialog box opens.

3. In the Interferences to Plot section, select one of the following options:

Selected Plots interferences selected in the Interferences list box in the Interference Reviewer dialog box All Plots all interferences listed in the Interferences list box in the Interference Reviewer dialog box
4. As desired, in the View Ports to Render in Hidden Line section, select one or more of the following:

View Port 1 View Port 2 View Port 3 You can click any view ports of the plot to display those parts of the elements that are visible (called polygon display) and to remove the lines that are hidden behind objects.
5. To select a destination for the plot file, type a directory location in the Plot File Output Directory field.

If you want to locate another directory electronically, you can click the Browse button.
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All interferences that are plotted to a file are placed in the

plot file output directory.
6. Click Plot.

The design file is visibly created, as shown in the example.

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Appendix A File Extensions

Introduction
This appendix explains the file formats identified by the file extensions that are contained in the Interference Manager. After you become familiar with the file extensions, you can easily identify the different file formats.

Description of File Extensions

The following table lists the file extensions in alphabetical order. File Extension
.dat .dbf .dgn .dwg .dxf .imp

Effect
Identifies an interference set (DAT) file that the Bentley Interference Manager Engine uses to detect interferences. Identifies a dBASE IV export (DBF) file. Identifies a MicroStation design (DGN) file. Identifies an AutoCAD drawing (DWG) file in binary format. Identifies a drawing (DXF) file that is in the AutoCAD drawing exchange format used to export a drawing file to other applications. Identifies a settings (IMP) file for the Bentley Interference Manager Engine, which contains the connection tolerance setting and the paths to the files used to run the Bentley Interference Manager Engine, such as the DAT file, IOF file, RPT file, ROF file, and SUP file. You can save these settings and re-use them again to run interference detection by selecting the Save Settings button in the Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box. Identifies an interference output (IOF) file, which is one of the two output files from the Bentley Interference Manager Engine. The IOF file is a JSM file and is used in the Review module of the Interference Manager in TriForma. Identifies an interference plot seed (JSD) file in TriForma. Identifies a JSpace object model file. The Extraction module of the Bentley Interference Manager converts 3D CAD files to JSM files. Identifies a JSpace class library file. Identifies a MicroStation application (MA) file, such as the Extract, Set Up, Detection, and Review applications. Identifies a plotter (PLT) file in MicroStation.

.iof

.jsd .jsm .lib .ma .plt

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Appendix A File Extensions

Description of File Extensions

File Extension
.rof

Effect
Identifies a report options (ROF) file, which is an optional ASCII file that you can define to have the Bentley Interference Manager Engine customize the interference report (RPT) file. Usually, this file has the same name as the interference report (RPT) file. Identifies an interference report (RPT) file, which is one of the two output files generated by the Bentley Interference Manager Engine. Identifies a suppression rules file. Identifies an ASCII export (TXT) file in MicroStation.

.rpt .sup .txt

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Appendix B Directory Structure for Interference Manager Files

Introduction
The installation of the Bentley Interference Manager creates a structure of directories and subdirectories.

Description of Directories
The following table lists the directories in alphabetical order. Directories
Documentation\TriForma\InterferenceMgr

Effect
Identifies the directory containing documentation in PDF format for the Interference Manager. Identifies the directory containing the MDL applications and related files. Identifies the directories containing the sample files to be used with the Interference Manager. Identifies the default output directory for the plot output. Identifies the directory containing the plot seed file. Identifies the directories containing the suppression rules (SUP) file and the report options (ROF).

Program\triforma\mdlapps Workspace\Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\ models\ and Workspace\Projects\Examples\ TriForma_Imperial\intmgr\out Workspace\Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\ intmgr\out Workspace\Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\ intmgr\seed Workspace\triforma\tf_imperial\setting and Workspace\Projects\Examples\TriForma_Imperial\ intmgr\setting

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Appendix C Configuration Variables

Introduction
This appendix explains the configuration variables that you can set to change the way the Bentley Interference Manager works. These variables enable maximum configuration and are defined in the System dialog box in the Control Panel.

Setting Variables in the Engine Module

The JS_TEXT_EDITOR is the configuration variable that is set for the Bentley Interference Manager Engine module. Variable
JS_TEXT_EDITOR

Effect
Sets the file name to the desired text editor. Then the Bentley Interference Manager Engine uses this text editor to display the interference set (DAT) file and the interference report (RPT) file.

Setting Variables in the Interference Manager Module

The following configuration variables are set for the Bentley Interference Manager module. Variable
IFM_DEFREPORT IFM_DEFSUPPRESS

Effect
Sets the name of the default report options file for the project. The definition should contain the complete path to the file. Sets the name of the default suppression rules (SUP) file for the project. The definition should contain the complete path to the file. Sets the value for the default connection tolerance for the project. The connection tolerance must be a small value of 1 mm or 1/16". The connection tolerance is defined in JSM model units.

IFM_DEFCONNTOL

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Appendix C Configuration Variables

Setting Variables in the Interference Manager Module

Variable
IFM_IGNORE_PROPERTIES

Effect
Controls the list of properties in a PHYSICAL_GROUP object that are ignored during an equality test, as follows: Set to a list of properties separated by semicolons (;) Set to the value IGNORE_ALL Uses only graphic objects and uses no properties in the equality test. Sets the name of the directory for the output files for the Interference Manager. This directory includes plots, DBF reports, and ASCII reports. Sets the name of the default plot seed file from the Interference Manager. The definition should contain the complete path to the file. Sets the value of the scale factor to be applied to the height of the text elements added to the plot file. Sets the value of the scale factor to be applied to the width of the text elements added to the plot file. Sets the color number to be applied to the text elements added to the plot file. Sets the weight to be applied to the text elements added to the plot file. Sets the style to be applied to the text elements added to the plot file. Sets the number of the font to be used in the interference plot file. By default, the font number is 3. Sets the name of the GUI_REPORT_DEFINITION derived from a JSpace class that is used to display a list of interference sets. If this is not defined, the GUI_RPT_DEF_INTERFERENCE_SETS class is used. Sets the name of the GUI_REPORT_DEFINITION derived from a JSpace class that is used to display a list of interferences. If this is not defined, the GUI_RPT_DEF_INTERFERENCES class is used.

IFM_OUT

IFM_DEFSEED

IFM_TEXT_HEIGHT_SCALE IFM_TEXT_WIDTH_SCALE IFM_TEXT_COLOR IFM_TEXT_WEIGHT IFM_TEXT_STYLE IFM_TEXT_FONT IFM_GUI_CLS_INTERFERENCE_SET

IFM_GUI_CLS_INTERFERENCES

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Glossary

A
Active file The JSM file that is checked against other active files, semi-active files, and passive files for interferences by the Bentley Interference Manager. See also Semi-active file and Passive file. A character or arithmetic expression that assigns a value to a property or method. Assertions typically appear in the conclusion section of a rule and can be combined by using the semicolon (;) operator.

Assertion

B
Bentley Interference Manager Engine The program in the Bentley Interference Manager that detects and reports interferences. The Bentley Interference Manager Engine is application independent.

C
Clearance tolerance The distance between components that do not intersect with other components, but that lie within a specified allowable distance of each other. The distance you set to eliminate interferences between components that only touch. After applying a connection tolerance, the Engine shrinks one of these components so that the two components do not touch.

Connection tolerance

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Glossary

H
Hard interference A physical clash between objects. If the graphic elements from two different objects intersect, then the Engine reports a hard interference.

I
Interference A clash in the physical components of a model. See also hard interference and soft interference. A JSpace object model file written by the Bentley Interference Manager Engine that stores pairs of interfering objects and maintains the status information throughout the life of your project. This JSM file is identified by the IOF file extension. A report generated by the Bentley Interference Manager that documents the results of interference detection including the interferences, their associated attributes, and their locations. This ASCII file has a customizable format and is identified by the RPT file extension. The JSM files and their associated parameters that are checked for interferences. An ASCII text file that contains the Interference Set and is identified by the DAT file extension.

Interference output (IOF) file

Interference report (RPT) file

Interference set

Interference set (DAT) file

J
JSpace (JSM) file A JSpace object model file that is extracted from CAD system design files using the JSpace MicroStation Connection. This file is identified by the JSM file extension and is also referred to as a JSpace model or simply a JSM file.

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Glossary

L
Local tolerance The distance between physical attributes of the object that are not explicitly represented by its geometry, such as insulation. If any part of the graphic element from one object or its local tolerance lies within the local tolerance of another object, then the Engine reports a hard interference.

P
Passive file A JSM file that active and semi-active files are checked against in the Bentley Interference Manager. However, the passive file is not checked against the active or semi-active files or other passive files. See also Active file and Semi-active file.

R
Report options (ROF) file A file that defines the property names and their value expressions for each type of object to be reported. Also, this optional ASCII text file is customizable and is identified by the ROF file extension. See Suppression rules.

Rule

S
Semi-active file A JSM file that is checked against active and passive files in the Bentley Interference Manager. However, a semi-active file is not checked against other semi-active files. See also Semi-active file and Passive file. A violation of the clearance tolerance that is applied to a physical element. If any part of a graphic element from one object lies within a specified distance of another object, but does not intersect with any of the graphic elements of that object, then the Engine reports a soft interference. A collection of IF-THEN-ELSE rule expressions that refer to properties associated with interfering objects. Suppression rules identify interferences that should not be reported in interference detection.

Soft interference

Suppression rules

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Glossary

Suppression Rules (SUP) File

A file that contains the suppression rules. This ASCII text file is external to the application and is identified by the SUP file extension.

T
Tolerance The distance between objects. See Clearance tolerance, Connection tolerance, and Local tolerance.

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Index

A
Accept Interferences tool 4-4 Accepted interference status 3-14 Action clauses 3-8 Active files definition of GL-1 setting mode 2-6 Add JSpace Model dialog box 2-9 Assertion, definition of GL-1

B
Bentley Interference Manager detection module 1-4, 3-1 extraction module 1-3 features of 1-2 navigating 1-6 review module 1-4, 4-1 setup module 1-4, 2-1 starting and quitting 1-7 Bentley Interference Manager Engine definition of GL-1 applying suppression rules 3-1, 3-5 as detection module 1-4, 3-1 calculating interferences 3-1, 3-2 creating interference output (IOF) files 3-2 creating interference report (RPT) files 3-2 reading interference set (DAT) files 2-1 running 3-1 from a command line 3-44 from a menu 3-38 from a menu with saved settings 3-43 understanding 3-1 Bentley Interference Manager Engine dialog box 3-24

Clearance tolerances definition of GL-1 specifying 2-6 using 3-5 Commodities 2-5 Comparative expressions 3-8 Comparison operators 3-7 Condition expressions 3-8 Configuration variables IFM_TOLEXPRES 3-4 JS_TEXT_EDITOR 3-37 setting 1-7, C-1 Connection tolerances definition of GL-1 using 3-4 Create Plot Seed File dialog box 4-12

D
DAT files. See Interference set (DAT) files Delete Interferences dialog box 3-33 Design files, extracting 2-1 Detect Interferences tool 1-4, 1-6, 3-24 Detected interference status 3-14 Detection module navigating in 3-21 understanding 1-4, 3-1 Dialog boxes Add JSpace Model 2-9 Bentley Interference Manager Engine 3-24 Create Plot Seed File 4-12 Delete Interferences 3-33 Edit Interference 4-22 Filter Interferences 4-18 Interference Results Manager 3-29 Interference Reviewer 4-4 Interference Set Manager 2-4, 3-27 Name Seed File 4-11, 4-18 New Interference Set File 2-6 Open Interference Results File 4-8

C
CAD files, extracting JSMs from 1-3 Clauses, action clauses 3-8
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Index
E
Open Interference Set File 2-7 Plot Interferences 4-9 Review Options 4-15 Save Interference Set As 2-8 Select a File in the Output Directory 4-10 Select ASCII File To Create 3-33 Select Auto Zoom Windows 4-15 Select dBASE File To Create 3-32 Select File To Create 3-31 Select Interference Analysis 4-9 Select Interference Results File 3-28 Select Interference Set File 3-27 Select Project 1-6, 2-2, 3-21 Select Report File 3-35 Select Report Options 3-36 Select Report Options File 4-17 Select Settings File 3-36 Select Suppression Rules File 3-34 Show Interference Details 4-21 Directory structure B-1 Draw All tool 4-3 Draw Next tool 4-3 Draw Previous tool 4-3 Draw Selected tool 4-3

H
Hard interferences definition of GL-2 reporting 3-4 Hilite Selected tool 4-4

I
IFM_TOLEXPRES configuration variable 3-4 Interference detection modules 1-3 reviewing interferences 1-4 running 1-4 understanding 1-1 visual presentation 1-5, 3-15 Interference Manager tool box 1-3 Interference Manager, See Bentley Interference Manager Interference output (IOF) files definition of 1-3, GL-2 creating 1-4, 3-2, 3-12 Interference report (RPT) files definition of 1-3, GL-2 creating 1-4, 3-2, 3-14 reviewing 3-18 viewing with a text editor 3-37 Interference report options (ROF) files default triforma_imperial.rof 3-17 sample 3-17 Interference Results Manager dialog box 3-29 Interference Reviewer dialog box opening 4-4 navigating the File menu 4-7 navigating the Interference menu 4-20 navigating the Settings menu 4-14 Interference Reviewer tool box 4-3 Interference set (DAT) files definition of GL-2 contains Interference Set 2-1 definition of 2-11 viewing with a text editor 3-37 Interference Set Manager dialog box 2-4, 3-27

E
Edit Interference dialog box 4-22 Edit Interference tool 4-4 Expressions comparative expressions 3-8 condition expressions 3-8 Extract Object Model tool 1-3, 1-6 Extraction module, understanding 1-3

F
File extensions A-1 Files active 2-6 passive 2-6 semi-active 2-6 Filter Interferences dialog box 4-18

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Index
J
Interference sets definition of GL-2 creating 1-4, 2-1, 2-11 deleting JSM files 2-16 setting parameters using a graphical menu 2-17 setting parameters using a text editor 2-19 working with 2-10 Interferences definition of GL-2, 1-1 displaying 4-23 editing reviewer, status, and comments 4-32 marking as Accepted 4-34 plotting 4-39 reporting 3-11 reporting status as accepted 3-14 detected 3-14 reviewed 3-14 suppressed 3-14 reporting type as hard interferences 3-4 soft interferences 3-4 setting filters 4-30 setting review options 4-27 viewing the details 4-35 zooming to 4-26 IOF files. See Interference output (IOF) files

L
Licenses 1-7 Local tolerances definition of GL-3 using 3-4 Logical operators 3-7

M
Modes 2-6

N
Name Seed File dialog box 4-11, 4-18 New Interference Set File dialog box 2-6

O
Open Interference Results File dialog box 4-8 Open Interference Set File dialog box 2-7 Operators comparison operators 3-7 logical operators 3-7

P
Parameters, used in Bentley Interference Manager Engine -a (report options file) 3-45 -c (connection tolerance) 3-45 -d (full interference report) 3-45 -e (echo) 3-46 -fc (enable file caching) 3-45 -i (combine all parameters) 3-46 -o (interference results file) 3-44 -p (output file prefix) 3-45 -s (interference set file) 3-44 -t (combine object clearances) 3-45 -x (suppression rule file) 3-45 Passive files definition of GL-3 setting mode 2-6 Plot Interferences dialog box 4-9

J
JS_TEXT_EDITOR configuration variable 3-37 JSM files delivered samples 1-3 JSpace (JSM) files definition of GL-2 Also called JSpace object model files, JSpace models, or JSM files JSpace expressions, examples of 3-8 JSpace MicroStation Connection, as extraction module 1-3 JSpace object model files, Also called JSpace models, JSpace (JSM) files, or JSM files 1-3

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Index
R

R
Report options (ROF) files definition of GL-3 viewing with a text editor 3-37 Reserved properties in suppression rules 3-8 Rules definition of GL-3 Review Interferences tool 1-4, 1-6, 4-3, 4-5 Review module navigating 4-2 understanding 1-4, 4-1 Review Options dialog box 4-15 Reviewed interference status 3-14 RPT files. See Interference report (RPT) files

Show Interference Details dialog box 4-21 Soft interferences definition of GL-3 reporting 3-4 SUP files. See Suppression rules (SUP) files Suppressed interference status 3-14 Suppression rules definition of GL-3 applying 3-1, 3-5 examples 3-9 formatting 3-7 reserved properties 3-8 Suppression rules (SUP) files definition of GL-4 using 3-6 viewing with a text editor 3-37

S
Save Interference Set As dialog box 2-8 Seed files building 4-36 sample 4-38 Select a File in the Output Directory dialog box 4-10 Select ASCII File To Create dialog box 3-33 Select Auto Zoom Windows dialog box 4-15 Select dBASE File To Create dialog box 3-32 Select File To Create dialog box 3-31 Select Interference Analysis dialog box 4-9 Select Interference Results File dialog box 3-28 Select Interference Set File dialog box 3-27 Select Project dialog box 1-6, 2-2, 3-21 Select Report File dialog box 3-35 Select Report Options dialog box 3-36 Select Report Options File dialog box 4-17 Select Settings File dialog box 3-36 Select Suppression Rules File dialog box 3-34 Self-checks 2-6 Semi-active files definition of GL-3 setting mode 2-6 Set Up Interference Detection tool 1-4, 1-6, 2-4 Setup module navigating in 2-2 understanding 1-4, 2-1 Show Details tool 4-4

T
Tolerances definition of GL-4 clearance tolerances 2-6, 3-5 connection tolerances 3-4 local tolerances 3-4 Tool boxes Interference Manager 1-3, 1-6 Detect Interferences tool 1-4, 1-6, 3-24 Extract Object Model tool 1-3, 1-6 Review Interferences tool 1-4, 1-6, 4-3, 4-5 Set Up Interference Detection tool 1-4, 1-6, 2-4 Interference Reviewer 4-3 Accept Interferences tool 4-4 Draw All tool 4-3 Draw Next tool 4-3 Draw Previous tool 4-3 Draw Selected tool 4-3 Edit Interference tool 4-4 Hilite Selected tool 4-4 Show Details tool 4-4

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