August 2009

ISSUE OSEA Focus Issue

74
A Letter from the Coordinator
Rebecca Arsham, San Francisco, California (US), +1 (415) 243-4767,
Arsham@pbworld.com
In last month’s correspondence I made a reference to the nearly
5000 PB employees who utilize Autodesk and Bentley software.
These PB employees need to diligently stay current on the software
applications that are used daily. This means update training, seeking
out opportunities to learn about the new and improved functional-
ity of the tools they use. In this age of Blogs, RSS Feeds, eLearning,
Rebecca Arsham – Califormia, US Virtual Classrooms, and Software User Conferences it is easier and
easier to tap into information.
All of the online application resources now available are ideal for a global company like PB. I en-
courage you to check out the CADD Applications Hub site for Industry Links and soon to come a page
dedicated to Industry RSS Feeds.

August also marks the opening of the 17th annual Autodesk University (AU) early bird registration pe-
riod. (Save US $500 if you register by October 9, 2009) AU will again be in Las Vegas NV on Decem-
ber 1-3, 2009. With more than 640 multi-level classes and hands-on labs organized in 18 discipline-
specific tracks, there are plenty of opportunities to expand your knowledge, enhance your career, and
keep you at the top of your game. View the AU2009 class catalog.

New this year and ideal for a global company like PB is the Autodesk University Virtual.

Nothing can compete with attending Autodesk University (AU) in person. But not everyone can travel
to Las Vegas, and in an era of tight budgets, rapidly changing technology and globalization, Autodesk
University Virtual can help you stay on top of the game – wherever you may reside. AU Virtual is a
three-day web-based event that coincides with the physical AU 2009 conference in Las Vegas.

With AU Virtual, you will gain practical knowledge—without leaving the office. AU Virtual attendees
experience the immediacy of AU via the Internet and have access to the following:

• Tune in to 60 live-streamed classes with real-time interaction with presenters

continued on next page

Inside This Issue: Working Smarter in InRoads - 3D Tendons in

A Letter from the Coordinator ................................1
Letter from the RUG Coordinator - August 2009.....2
AutoCAD User Group (AUG)
Summer 2009 Newsletter........................................4
Congratulations New CADD Associates!................6
David A. Abraham Jr. – An Autobiography..............8
2009 CADD Pan Membership Drive........................10
VBA for AutoCAD....................................................11
Working Smarter - InRoads Project Setup..............13
Bridge Girders................................................................14
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT)
against Mxrail (cont’d)...................................................16
Bright Ideas....................................................................23
AU 2009 Advert..............................................................24
BE Conference Advert....................................................25
Bentley Roads & Bridges Conference Information........26
Issue 73 Global PAN 07 Contributors.............................27
Pan 07 Intranet Resources..............................................27
 2

A Letter from the Coordinator - cont.

• Access up to 350 on-demand classes
• Connect to virtual networking with peers and experts
• Review new products and services in the Virtual Exhibit Hall/Technology Showcase

In the coming months we will have more information on the learning opportunities available to you.

As always I encourage you to contact me with any questions or comments.

-Rebecca

Letter from the RUG Coordinator - August 2009

Richard Tabe, Melbourne, Australia, +61 (3) 9861-1180, RTabe@pb.com.au
Greg Smith, Wellington, New Zealand, +64 (4) 916-6539, smithg@pbworld.com

Richard Tabe – Melbourne, AU
Greg Smith – Wellington, NZ
How is the global recession affecting our
workloads, business development and growth in
OSEA?
Reading the news lately reveals banking or-
ganisations withholding their lending which
flows through to our organisations with caution
prevailing, holding back on projects or feasi-
bility studies because they cannot raise the
capital or clawing back some of their revenues
into reserves rather than increase their Capital
Expenditure.
We can appreciate this in New Zealand because
much of our work occurs alongside the banks/
lenders and upfront with pre feasibility and
feasibility studies.
Also, more often than not, our clients are asking
us to restrict travel and recruit more local staff
for site visits and investigations or quality in-
spections. In Australasia-Pacific overall, clients
are demanding more “bang for their buck” and
this is resulting in more pressure on companies
like PB to find new methods and techniques
that can maximize the budgets set by clients.
This mindset is greatly assisted by the relation-
ships we have with our vendors. If we have a
close, open and bilateral relationship with the
software vendors they continue to be a valued
resource when we need assistance in pushing
the limit of our knowledge using their software.
At times this collaboration helps to drive future
functionality in their products.
Our vendors such as Bentley have been for-
ward thinking in relation to the recession and
this year’s BeConnected Conference has been
changed to an online series of presentations
by Webinar. The powerful message this sends is
“keep working business as usual, but look for
new ways of getting the same message across
cheaper for all your stakeholders”. These stake-
holders may be clients, peers or suppliers.
This attitude must be applauded and the small
regret at loss of a travel opportunity is repaid
by access to a rich and diverse series of targeted
presentations, all of which can help you save
your clients money too.
I have taken to presenting 1 BeConnected
presentation per week at lunchtime on Fridays in
the office and the response so far has been very
positive.
Overall in the region, things may seem a little
quiet, but this is the time to utilise expanding
your ideas, writing papers, performing pre-
sentations and working with your vendors and
professional organisations so when the recession
continued on next page

Letter from the RUG Coordinator - August 2009 - cont.
recedes, you and PB are in a stronger position
than you were 12 months ago and can take
advantage of new opportunities.
A new initiative that has evolved from Work
Sharing and Remote Office Working is Virtu-
al Teaming. A-P has developed a set of guide-
lines for Managing Virtual Teams called a “tool-
box”. This covers basics such as Forming teams,
communication, building trust and encouraging
collaboration, Managing, and leading virtual
teams.
Basically, my message is don’t feel that you
have to hunker-down or reduce your exposure
to new ideas and opportunities to weather the
storm of recession, but open up, see it as a
positive time to gain more from the opportunity
From than your competition.
Agnes From Agnes Viterbo in Philippines
Viterbo PB PH have participated in a six-part series of
LIVE eSeminars by Bentley on MicroStation V8i
from May to June. Refer BeConnected from
Bentley.com.
Philippine-Australia Alliance is in full swing.
There are approximately 25 staff in the office,
close to the PH main office, who primarily work
for PB Australia and provide cost competitive
Engineering and CAD services to the region.
Continuing the theme of work share, there are
presently 2 Designers and 2 CADD staff on tem-
porary duty assignment (TDY) in Honolulu. Their
From stay ranges from 3 to 6 months.
Richard From Richard Tabe
Tabe Despite the current economic downturn, PB’s de-
sign team in Melbourne are busily occupied with
the recently awarded major Alliance project the
M80, Sydney Tulla project ($700M) and the Pen-
insula Link Tender Bid (+$500M). These projects
3
utilise an integrated software suite of the v8i
editions of Bentley’s MicroStation, InRoads and
Storm and Sanitary which provide the immediate
benefits of providing drafting efficiencies and
reducing the design and construction risk. Pro-
jectWise is also being used to administer and
control the distribution of the CADD documents
on the Sydney Tulla Project.
The InRoads User Group have met regularly at
monthly intervals with the sessions now being
webcast into other locations. These sessions are
also being recorded and will soon be available
through the PAN site in the InRoads user group
area.
Richard Tabe made a presentation for the 3rd
quarter on August the 6th to the Victorian BE
Community held at the State DOT offices in Cam-
berwell. The live hands on presentation “Smarter
Corridor Modelling in InRoads v8i” covered
components, pavement widening with boxing,
and how parent/ child relationships can be used
in a template.
Finally, congratulations to the new CADD
Associates in the OSEA region and to those who
have continued their accreditation through to
the Senior level.
 4

AutoCAD User Group (AUG)

Summer 2009 Newsletter
Lisa Perrett, Cardiff, Wales (UK), +44 (0) 29-2082-7072, PerrettL@pbworld.com
Welcome to the AUG summer newsletter for 2009. In this update, you will be informed of the new
screencast available for AutoCAD 2010 presented by Lynn Allen, Details of the upcoming Autodesk
University 2009 and the Featured Tip of the Month.

AutoCAD 2010 – Web Screencast Hosted by Lynn Allen

Lisa Perrett – Wales, UK

A screencast is now available for you to watch on the web showing all the latest Tips and Tricks for
AutoCAD 2010 presented by Lynn Allen (Technical Evangelist). You are able to navigate through the
chapters or just let the presentation follow through to completion. This is a great way of catching up
with the latest version of the software.

AU 2009
Registration AU 2009 Registration Opens in August

Opens

Each year, the Autodesk University (AU) User Conference and Exhibition brings together over 9000
continued on next page
 5

AutoCAD User Group (AUG)

Summer 2009 Newsletter - cont.
Autodesk enthusiasts from around the world to learn, network, and celebrate the power of Autodesk
technology and the international AU community.

As the largest gathering of Autodesk users, developers and partners, AU creates a unique setting
where companies and institutions of all sizes can gain valuable information and learn strategies to
Top help them thrive in today’s economy.
Eight Top Eight Reasons to Attend:
Reasons
to Attend • Training Tailored to Your Industry
• Skills Improvement
• Keeping Up with Technology
• Fulfilling Company Goals
• Employee Satisfaction
• Future Strategy
• Stay Ahead of the Competition
• Finding Solutions

AU 2009 registration opens in mid-August, so plan now to attend.

AU08
Training Visit the Hub To Find Some Uploaded Training Materials From AU08
Materials
on Hub Following my previous attendance at AU08, I have uploaded some training materials for you to down-
load. Please visit using the link below:

http://corp.hub.pbworld.com/KN/DM/007/UGAC/Pages/AskFindShare.aspx

Featured
Tip Featured Tip of the Month
of the
Month We are introducing a new section to the quarterly report called ‘Featured Tip of the Month’, so please
forward any tips to me by mid October so that I may incorporate into the next newsletter. Please
send with your name, office location, phone number and emails address on the top line, in PDF for-
mat.

continued on next page

 6
AutoCAD User Group (AUG)
Summer 2009 Newsletter - cont.
Featured Tip No.1 – Overkill

This one is featured on Lynn Allen’s blog. Follow the link to view:

http://lynn.blogs.com/lynn_allens_blog/2009/07/an-autocad-hip-tip-on-overkill.html
New
Members We are always looking for new members, so if you are aware of any new employees you feel would
benefit from becoming members, then please invite them to join using the following link:

Enterprise Home > Networks > Design & Modeling > CADD Applications > AutoCAD

http://corp.hub.pbworld.com/KN/DM/007/UGAC/default.aspx

If you have any ‘Tips & Tricks’ you would like to submit,
As always, Angela Snider is looking for articles to include in the monthly newsletters, so if you are
working on any interesting project, please share your experiences and forward to Angela.

Until next time,

Lisa Perrett
AUG leader

Congratulations New CADD Associates

Frank Ryan, Princeton, New Jersey (US), +1 609 734-7015, ryanf@pbworld.com

On behalf of the CADD PAN and the CADD As-
sociate Certification Program I would like to
extend my congratulations to everyone that was
approved by the Board of Directors in June as a
CADD Associates for 2009.
The CADD Associate Certification Program was
Frank Ryan – New Jersey, US
incorporated as part of the Technical Associate
program at PB earlier this year and continues to
be a globally successful initiative as a total of
55 CADD Associate applications were received
this year, of which 47 were ultimately approved
for inclusion as CADD Associates. This year CADD
Associate applications were received from Aus-
tralia, Philippines, United Arab Emirates, United
Kingdom, and the United States, with a total of
23 applications being received from within the
US and 32 applications from our global offices.
CADD Associate applications were reviewed by
a panel of nine CADD professionals, this group
included staff from the United States (4),
United Kingdom (2), Australia (1), New Zealand
(1) and the Philippines (1). The review panel
also included two Professional Associates, both
of which have their technical specialty in CADD
applications.
A total of 233 people have achieved their CADD
Associate certification since the program incep-
tion in 2004. From this group 62 CADD profes-
sionals have achieved Senior level certification
and 10 have reached Principal level.
continued on next page
 7
Congratulations New CADD Associates - cont.
Total CADD Associates Since Program Inception
Senior CADD Principal CADD
CADD Associate
Associate Associate
Australia 52 9 1
New Zealand 3 1 1
Philippines 21 6
Singapore 1
United Arab Emirates 2
United Kingdom 23 6 1
United States 131 40 7

CADD Associate applications are accepted each
year during the months of December and Janu-
ary. All supporting documentation for the CADD
Associate program is available on the CADD PAN
Hub site at the following links:
CADD Associate Home Page
http://corp.hub.pbworld.com/KN/DM/007/
Pages/CADDAssociate.aspx
Certification Quick Reference Chart
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
http://corp.hub.pbworld.com/KN/DM/007/
Documents/2009CA_FAQ_r1.pdf
Applications for the 2010 CADD Associate Cer-
tification program will be available on the Hub
site starting in November.
Questions concerning the CADD Associ-
ate program should be sent to Frank Ryan at
ryanF@pbworld.com.

http://corp.hub.pbworld.com/KN/DM/007/ Congratulations to the 2009 CADD Associates for

Documents/2009CA_Attachment_A_r1.pdf a job well done.

continued on next page


David A. Abraham Jr. – Manilla, PH
Congratulations New CADD Associates - cont.
Newly recognized CADD Associates from the Phillipines Office
David A. Abraham Jr. – An Autobiography
David A. Abraham Jr., Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines, +632 687-1061 abraham.david@pbworld.com
Before I started my career as CAD Operator, I
was a Structural Steel Detailer / Draftsman at
SPDI in 1989. Since I started my interest in
computers, I decided to use it in drafting. In
1991, I then enrolled in Computer Aided Design
and Drafting (CADD) using ATS Supervisions
software in Ateneo Computer Technology Center
in Makati. Then I bought a book in Autocad
tutorial, I self studied it at home with hands-on
exercises.
In 1992, I then worked in Gexis Technologies,
Inc. in Pasig City, Phils., as CAD Operator. I
experienced conversion of engineering & archi-
tectural drawings and maps into digital format
8
using AutoCAD R.10 and CAD Overlay ESP 3.0.
The various editing system are manual CAD digi-
tizing using digitizer tablet, scanning & hybrid
or raster/vector editing systems. I also done
some sideline works in CIM and Vista-CAD like
3d works and tracing scanned drawings.
In 1994, I also worked for few months in RP De-
sign Consultants in Singapore which I have done
interior designing, supervision & preparation of
shop drawings using AutoCAD R.12. I contin-
ued my work in architectural drawings in Gener
Flancia and Associates where my experience in-
cludes drawing & sketching using AutoCAD R.12
on space planning of interiors like floor plans,
continued on next page

David A. Abraham Jr. – An Autobiography - cont.
electrical layouts, kitchen & bathrooms, draw-
ing elevations, sections & perspective of high
rise building & residential, plotting architectural
drawings using CANON bubble jet & MUTOH
plotter and scanning drawn architectural plans &
pictures using Microtek Color Scanner & editting
In using Adobe Photoshop software.
In 1996, I began using my course in Civil En-
1996 gineering when I joined Parsons International
Limited in Makati, Phils., at Civil/Structural
Department. I worked as CADD Designer and
have projects in telecommunications, power
plants and residential. In 1997, I transferred
to Kvaerner Philippine Corporation. I have
done civil, structural and mechanical drawings
using Microstation ’95 and Autocad Rel. 14. I
also worked as Scanning Coordinator in using
Softelec VP Studio HybridCAD software for raster
& vector drawings. I have also done part-time
works in C & E Corporation and Alan-Dick Corpo-
In ration.
In 2000, I was hired by Fluor-Daniel Inc. in Ala-
2000 bang as Structural CADD Designer in Civil/Struc-
tural/Architectural Department. During this time
I was trained in Intergraph PDS (Plant Design
System) Frameworks Plus & Structural Design.
My experience includes modeling, designing &
producing drawings of structural steels such as
platforms, stairs, ladders, piperacks, miscella-
neous pipe, electrical & structural supports and
concrete foundations of pumps, vertical & hori-
zontal vessels, exchangers, of petrochemical &
industrial plants using PDS and Microstation J.
I was also assigned in Control Systems depart-
ment using Wiring and Intools 5.1 (E & CS),
9
In 2003, I worked with Crumbs and Imaginit
(subcon of JGC Philippines) also in Alabang
as CADD Designer in Civil, Process and Piping
Department. I also done jobs I have done with
Fluor like PDS and MicroStation. I was trained in
Tekla Xsteel 8.2 where my experience includes
modelling 3d drawings based on structural
layouts by engineers for steel structures and
prepares drawings such as plans, elevations,
details, views and autoconnections for embed-
ded plates using Xsteel , exports in AutoCAD for
review and issued for construction.
In September 2006, I was hired by Parsons
Brinckerhoff Philippines, Inc., in San Miguel
Ave., Pasig City. I am currently working as
Senior CAD Drafter in Engineering Department. I
became a regular / permanent in this company
in which I am very happy with it. I was assigned
to be a Mentor in MicroStation and trained
newly hired staffs. It was my first time to attend
a “Team Building” and “Becoming a Quality
Employee” seminars in PB and learned many
things like team development, being effective
team leaders, winning organization, self discov-
ery, needs of people, personal and professional
success among others. I was also able to attend
Project Management Training where I could use
in the future when I will be assign as Project
Manager. I also worked as CAD Supervisor in
Sydney Water Corporation and was assigned in
Manila-Australia Network Alliance. Right now, I
am currently assigned in Novare Bridges where I
can make use of my skills in civil and structural
drawings. I am proud to be working in PB and
plan to work here for 15 years or more like my
other colleagues in PB worldwide.
 10
2009 CADD Pan Membership Drive

2009 CADD PAN MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

2009 As a member of the CADD PAN, you already know the many benefits of being a part of a Community of
Practice. Now is the best time for you to share this information with other PB colleagues by signing them
CADD PAN up as a member of the CADD PAN and showing them how to plug in to this unique PB Community.

Membership Announcing the 2009 CADD PAN Membership Drive and your opportunity to be entered to win one
of two exciting prizes.
Drive
Increase YOUR chances to win an iPod Classic or a Nintendo Wii when you show a PB co-worker how they
can become members of the CADD PAN too.

Employees can sign up for the CADD PAN themselves using the survey listed below or you can complete
the survey for them.

Here is all you need to do:

Direct a PB co-worker to the provided link below:
Click Here to Jump to the Hub

Any PB staff can sign up to join the CADD PAN as a Primary or a Secondary PAN member.
When they fill out the simple form, make sure they include your name at the ‘Referred by’ line.
Just by filling out the form, the person signing up, AND the person who referred, will be entered into a
drawing.
Refer one co-worker, and your name will be placed in the drawing once…
Refer twenty co-workers, and your name will be placed in the drawing 20 times.

First Prize – your choice of one of the following:

Nintendo Wii or iPod Classic
Second Prize – your choice of one of the following:
Nintendo DSi or iPod Nano

The contest ends November 2

The winners will be chosen at random from the valid entries and will be announced in the November edi-
tion of the CADD PAN Newsletter.

A prize will also be awarded to the person who makes the most references!

(Only one prize will be awarded to a winner. In other words, the First prize, Second prize, and Most References Prize will not be
awarded to the same person.)

The more members in the CADD PAN, the better we will

Participate, Communicate & Educate
effectively in everything that is CADD.
 11
VBA for AutoCAD
Brendan Mulcahy, Brisbane (AU), +7 3280 9300, brendan.mulcahy@D2G.com.au
AutoCAD customisation takes on many forms. Users can change workspaces, profiles, create palettes,
modify the Customization User Interface and streamline their acad.pgp file, among others. Further to
this, scripting functionality is also available, allowing high-throughput of commands at the touch of
a button. Following from this, there are also two powerful programming languages available for more
complicated automation tasks - Lisp and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). Depending on the task
at hand, one or more of these automation tools can make quick work of highly complicated and/or
repetitive tasks, leaving users to concentrate on the detail of their work and not be hampered by
repetitive or frustrating tasks.
Brendan Mulcahy – Brisbane, AU

My particular area of interest is VBA. This language was developed by Microsoft to give developers a
high-level language to get programs to talk to each other and is a component of all Office products as
well as many non-Microsoft products. Luckily for developers like myself, this language is also included
in AutoCAD. In this article I’ll briefly cover the usage of VBA within AutoCAD and show how you can
get scripting and VBA to call on each other, depending on your need.

VBA is saved as projects with the .dvb file extension and can be loaded and unloaded at will. This
happens in the VBA Manager (VBAMAN command). If you have projects loaded, they will appear in
the Manager list, or if not, you can use the Load button to bring them in. AutoCAD being AutoCAD,
you can also drag .dvb files from Windows Explorer into the drawing space to load them more easily.
Usage-wise, projects can be loaded using VBALOAD, unloaded using VBAUNLOAD and individual mac-
ros run using VBARUN, more on this below. Developers can then delve further into the development
Running environment, but its use goes far beyond the scope of this article.

VBA Macros Running VBA macros from scripts:

from
Scripts Scripting is a hugely popular way to automate tasks, for obvious reasons. Any AutoCAD user familiar
with entering command line instructions will already have an intuitive understanding of scripting.
AutoCAD commands have already been developed by Autodesk programmers so generally there’s no
need to re-invent the wheel - this varied and powerful list of commands are easily accessed through
scripting.

Scripting also has the benefit from the range of readily available scripting programs such as Hurricane
and ScriptPro which allow users to list numerous drawings for scripts to be run on. Simply list your
drawings, select your script and (depending on whether your computer and network are behaving!)
you can walk away while multiple commands are executed over multitudes of drawings.

But what if there isn’t a command available, you have a VBA function at hand and wish to run a VBA
macro via scripting? Using the commands listed above, this is a straightforward operation. You simply
load the project, run specific macros and unload the project, as shown below.

continued on next page

 12
VBA for AutoCAD - cont.
The first line invokes the VBALOAD command, inserting the full path of the dvb file in question. Next
up the VBARUN command runs an individual macro contained within that project called D2G_12D_
Text_Layer_Fix. Once complete, the project (now just listed by its name) is unloaded.

In this case I was asked to create a macro that would send different text entities in 12D output to
specific layers on the basis of specific criteria. For instance, any text beginning with “R” or “B”
had to be changed to one specific layer, while any text beginning with “TP” had to go to a different
specific layer. While a relatively simple macro in VBA (and probably lisp), this would not be possible
with scripting. However, the combination of VBA to do the specifics along with scripting to handle its
Running high-throughput use is a great time-saving combination.

Scripts Running scripts from VBA macros:

from VBA
Macros Another advantage to scripting is that there are lots of them written. If one already does the task at
hand, or part of it, why not use it?

In the following example I was asked to write code to supplement an existing script that performed
a series of polyline edits to convert arcs and lines to one joined polyline. The added functionality re-
quired the execution of this script only in the presence of a specific layer and the rotation of specific
text entities by 180o as the design model was rotated by that much compared to the project draw-
ing views. Re-writing the script would have been time-consuming and wasteful, so instead I ran the
existing script using the following code in VBA.

Application.ActiveDocument.SendCommand (“scr “ & vbCrLf & strPath & “design_output_conver-

sion_arc.scr” & vbCrLf)

This code is basically a command line dump, invoking the SCRIPT command and inputting the neces-
sary script name and execution instructions. The code vbCrLf is the VBA equivalent of pressing return
within the command.

Following this code was instructions for selecting specific text entities, recording their angle within
model space, adding 180o and rotating them to that new angle, again functionality that would not
be possible with scripting alone.

Finishing this off required calling this VBA function from a script, identical in structure to the one
listed above – load, run and unload - for high-throughput. Yes, a script to call a VBA function that
called a script!

In conclusion, AutoCAD comes ready-made with great tools for automation and customization. Tools
such as scripting, lisp and VBA, while powerful in their own right, should not be viewed as stand-
alone entities, but as co-existing tools that can supplement each other. In further installments I
will highlight how VBA can be used to execute automatically at startup, setting variables, commands
and pathing without user intervention as well as demonstrating the transfer of information between
AutoCAD and Microsoft Excel for powerful time-saving functions.
 13

Working Smarter - InRoads Project Setup

Richard Tabe, Melbourne, Australia, +61 (3) 9861-1180, RTabe@pb.com.au

A common challenge in design is the need to swap projects at the drop of a hat. Not only is your
train of thought interrupted, but also your workflow. Time is inevitably lost.

Another annoyance is the navigation through Window Explorer to the new Project Directory. The abil-
ity to do this is enhanced by capturing the paths in the project configuration.

Step One
Richard Tabe – Melbourne, AU

Go to File<Project Defaults and

Type in the name of the project
underneath the first opening
under ”Configuration Name”

Step Two

Populate the “Default Direc-

tory” paths by using the browse
button on the right and captur-
ing each of the categories e.g.
Location of the Project (*.rwk),
Surfaces (*.dtm) etc

Step Three

Apply the Settings from the

right hand side options

Step Four

Export the settings from the right hand side options. This will capture all the Configurations that
have been created on that particular WorkStation and export it as a .reg file. Locate the file centrally
on the network under the Project and also in a standard library area.

For another user to share in the configuration, the registration (*.reg) may be imported from the
import function on the right hand side of the panel.

Richard Tabe – Melbourne, AU
Paul Michaud – Melbourne, AU
14
Working Smarter in InRoads -
3D Tendons in Bridge Girders
Richard Tabe, Melbourne, Australia, +61 (3) 9861-1180, RTabe@pb.com.au
Paul Michaud, Melbourne, Australia, +61 (3) 9861-1111, PMichaud@pb.com.au
One of the challenges of design is how to improve processes with modern technology and streamlined
workflows. Is there a need for change? Why do we make change? Is change implemented for changes
sake or is it introduced for innovation and productivity improvements. One of the areas identified
where further productivity savings can be achieved is the modelling of tendons in 3D using a design
software package and CAD. What tools work best for this? This is an exercise that is easily and ef-
ficiently undertaken with an integrated combination of InRoads and MicroStation.
Typically, the bridge girder could either be a precast segmental form cast in a yard, or, cast in situ on
site. The tendons are placed in circular ducts within the cast girders to a diameter required to house
these tendons. The ducts are then grouted once the stressing sequence has been completed. The
forces placed on the tendons when stressed are extremely high and a precise set out is required. The
manufacturer’s installation instructions specify minimum radius requirements, and, straight lengths at
the anchorage points. The ducts need to be laid out to ensure there are no kinks, curves are circular
or parabolic, and, straights are tangential to all curves.
The ducts are traditionally drawn up in 2D showing a plan and a profile. The checking of concrete
cover and clearance between ducts as they weave thru the girder was approximated only, being
limited within the confines of a 2D environment. Close enough had been considered good enough
and the rework required on site was accepted as part of the normal process. The use of spread sheets
for manual checking may be suitable for simple bridge structures but the complexity of varying road
geometry on the roadways being designed now make it a difficult and time intensive challenge. The
best solution to extract accurate data is to model the ducts in 3D.
continued on next page
 15
Working Smarter in InRoads - 3D Tendons in
Bridge Girders - cont.
All well planned projects require good tools and good workflows. An alternative way is required to
design the geometry rather than manually to accurately maintain the geometrical relationships due
to the combined effects of simultaneous horizontal and vertical direction changes in the ducts. The
tools that provide the best result for the exercise are InRoads as the design tool on a MicroStation
CAD platform. The strength of these tools lies with their integration with CAD in a 3D environment.

The work is undertaken typically by a structural drafter who has undertaken some InRoads training.

The workflow is as follows-:

1) Setout the tendons in plan in CAD

2) Import or create the geometry in InRoads using the
preferred method of Horizontal Element
3) Create Profile in InRoads showing the soffit of the
beam and then establish the control points where
the tendon is required to pass (this will assist in
determining clearance requirements).
4) Create a vertical alignment in the profile through the
critical points by using Vertical Element method with
fixed/free/floating combinations of placing elements
5) Annotate the profile at 1m intervals
6) Display the alignment of the tendon with Geometry View
3D Alignment with the spacing set to 100mm as shown
in the adjacent illustration
7) In MicroStation, extrude the diameter of the duct along the centreline of the tendon.
8) Model additional parts of the beam in MicroStation
9) Review and the finished product by extraction of sections and visualisation.

The following benefits are provided in this dynamic environment.

• Firstly, clearance checks are made that have

certainty and the model can be sectioned at
any defined point with corresponding
relationships that are measureable and
annotatable.
• Secondly, the 3D model can be sectioned and
annotated using InRoads with clearances from
the ductwork to the soffit at a defined interval,
normally 1metre.
• Thirdly, as the design is proved in 3D prior to going to construction, clashes are eliminated and
the amount of field rework is reduced producing time and cost savings

continued on next page

 16
Working Smarter in InRoads - 3D Tendons in
Bridge Girders - cont.
• Fourthly, visualisation of the beam is possible from any view point to display the design intent
to all collaborators. Opportunities are provided to refine the design.
• Lastly, as the design information is provided in 3D, the opportunity to construct the data
accurately from the digital file is provided. This lessens transference of data errors and makes
available to the contractors the most highly detailed and accurate level of information possible.

The design being undertaken in 3D provides the best solution for construction and plan production
with reduction of risk and drafting costs. What simplified the process? The exercise is greatly simpli-
fied with the choice of software and environment.
We have two ways of doing this task- the traditional way or the smarter way. Logic says that we can
get a better result if we do it the smarter way by using an integrated CADD solution.

And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against

Mxrail (cont’d)
Roy Tingley, Godalming, Surrey (UK), +44(0) 1483-528953, TingleyR@pbworld.com

This article is continued from the July issue of the

CADD PAN 7 Newsletter!

There are obvious advantages and disadvantages with both software packages. Unlike Road design,
the Rail industry has not had any choice but to shift its design capabilities to BRT. Having used Mx
over many years, the change over has been relatively painless. However at the moment the current
Roy Tingley – Surrey, UK workload has only given the opportunity to use horizontal and vertical design commands, turnout
and crossover design and dabbling with the regression tools, but of those few commands there are
some very good tools which I have been very impressed with.
Rather than looking at the general nuts and bolts of BRT and Mxrail, like placing geometry elements,
turnouts etc which both design packages handle in almost the same way. This article concentrates on

Using tools, which dare I say, BRT has the upper hand over Mxrail. \

the Using the software

Software Unlike Mx, with Inrail you do not need to work continually in the design environment. You can
very easily unload and reload the design data, For example by setting the F7 key with the following
shortcut mdl load “c:\program files\bentley\inroads group v8.9\bin\civustXM.ma” XM version.
(….\civustAT.ma”) V8i. The user can start Microstation and when Inrail is required use F7 to start-
up the software.

Most of us who did the Inrail course, and who have the benefit of two monitors back at our own
workstations would agree that two is best!! The benefits soon become apparent when only using one
monitor. We all have our preferred toolbars displayed when using Microstation. Whether these are
docked to the edges or floating on screen. Add into the pot other software packages we have open at
the same time (the beauty of windows). Start-up Inrail and this opens the BRT explorer, fairly

continued on next page

 17
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.
innocuous you may think. But using tools from the pull-down menu bar opens even more sub-menus,
icons etc. As and it’s not long before you cannot see the “wood for the trees” without having to move
or minimise the array of data on the screen

The explorer is divided into four major parts

• Menu bar, these contain the tools available for the active Bentley Rail track modules
• Left box is the workspace bar, control centre for all Project data
• Right box displays details of about the data in the Project.
• And finally the status bar along the bottom.

During the course you are led through it using the pull-down menus to access the tools. I hear you
say “that’s logical”, but after a while and as with all CADD environments the instructor introduces you
to the customisation tab, well there’s always two ways to skin a cat (apologies to those cat lovers).
Now that’s more like it, those tools used time and time again are there, easily accessible without
having to hunt through the pull-downs to find the tool, as can be seen below:

However the obvious disadvantage to customising the Inrail explorer is that it takes up more and

BRT more of the screen, so the benefit of having two monitors is without doubt a requirement.

Design Bentley Rail Track design fundamentals

Basics Although the basic principles of Mxrail and Inrail are very similar, creating surfaces, geometry i.e.
floating and fixing straights and radii, linking them with transitions to generate desired alignments,
crossovers and turnout geometry, earthworks etc. How these are applied is altogether very different.
Unlike Mx where you did not need much CAD knowledge, CAD functionality is an integral part of the
design. No longer is there a reliance on input files to assist in the manipulation of data as we had
continued on next page
 18
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.
with Mxrail which had to be edited for each project. This is now down to setting custom preference
files. Admittedly once standard files have been created these can be used time after time, and only
when the client requested specific information to be displayed would they need to be changed.

First up must be Check Integrity, This is great, sorry I am easily pleased. For those of you familiar
with Mx, can’t it be a real pain. You think that you have a completed string 5km long, you end the
horizontal command and you get a warning of discontinuities. The same thing could and would hap-
pen with vertical profiles, it comes to the end of the day you have to be home pronto and you get the
following message:

…..cannot create tangent point string from discontinuous alignment

3 discontinuities found in vertical alignment
First discontinuity at 940.600
Between elements B005 and B002

So what do you do, there are a lot of elements over 5km, time is running out. Rather than trying to
put in a compliant element, you would probably fix in any elemnt just to get rid of the discontinuity.
But in the example there are three, so you have to exit the command to find the next instance and so
on. When you get back to it, where is that piece of paper that you wrote all the location of diconti-
nities down on! However with Inrail as you place an element you can see it a) on the design b) in
tabulated form. Until connected they are highlighted RED, once connected the elements are shown
black. And in the unconnected state you can exit the software, and come back to it at later.

Second up Multiple element regression analysis can be very useful indeed as it solves two kinds of
problems: Multiple Element Connection (MEC) problems and Multiple Element Regression (MER)
problems.

continued on next page

 19
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.

MEC problems are the less complicated of the two. In a typical MEC problem, the goal is to define
connecting geometry to close a disconnection in the active horizontal alignment. In an MER problem,
there are two goals: 1) to fit the alignment to a set of regression data (points) and 2) to define con-
necting geometry to close a disconnection in the active horizontal alignment.

Well I hope you understood all that. In layman’s terms it means that the designer can pick two
elements on an alignment no matter how far apart. Inrail will select all the connecting elements
between them (see screenshot above). The designed elements can then be amended, for example say
the last transition length (55m) is too short. By highlighting the row and using the edit box to the
right this can then be amended to say 65m. By changing this, other elements would have to change
and the designer needs to check the box of three adjacent elements to allow BRT to alter them and
hence accommodate the extra 10m in transition length. In this case it could be that the preceding
circular curve, radii and the final straight could be changed. Once satisfied that the elements selected
will have the desired effect, the apply tab is selected. The change would result in a shorter length
of radii and change in radius, it would also reduce the length of the final straight but the bearing is
unaffected, if acceptable then it can be saved. This command is particularly useful if you have a start
and end element but nothing linking them. By using this command you can easily build-up an align-
ment. Not so with Mx you had to edit each element one at a time. (Bentley Rail Track wins).

Connection editor, for the example shown on the right we created parametric turnouts 7349 and
7350 on parallel straight track, from the Turnout Library command. Connecting these turnouts with a
crossover uses the same principle as the regression tool. First we identify the beginning element in
this case turnout 7349, and then the ending element 7350. In this example we want to leave 7350
positioned where originally placed. So by checking the box next to 7349 means this element will
move to suit the length of crossover. Next we add a length of straight into the connecting element
continued on next page
 20
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.
box. Note: this does not need to be the exact length as Bentley Rail Track will compute the actual
length.

However say the example involved placing the turnouts on parallel curved track, then in the con-
necting element box would need to show two elements i.e. the heel length radii from both turnouts,
indicated in the boxes to the right of the turnout data. The free box for both elements plus the float-
ing turnout needs to be checked. Bentley Rail Track will compute the actual geometry through the
crossover.

Now let’s look at the final two options on the connection editor tab. The Element tab, this allows
the designer to make a connection between to alignments. For example say new sidings have been
designed and they need to be connected into the main lines. The designer knows roughly where to
place the turnout. In the same way as Multiple Horizontal Element Regression works, the designer can
very easily design the final arrangement for the connection.
continued on next page
 21
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.
And finally we have the free exit tab this does exactly what it says on the tin, it allows the designer
to create a series of elements off the back of a turnout, very useful in Buffer Stop design.

View Horizontal Annotation. As I mentioned at the beginning of this article re: input files, even
though Mx allowed the designer to save some of the setup data for use time after time, these were
sometimes limited in what you could do with them. The other way was to create input files to gener-
ate consistent looking outputs. However the designer had to have some knowledge of Mx Command
Language (LINEMODE). Inrail uses one preference file (*.xin) to accomplish the same results. PB UK
Rail has started to customise their own to give a consistent look to all drawings across the Busi-
ness Unit. Most of our horizontal geometry is created at the following scales 1:100 (Manufacturing)
1:200 (Detailed Design) and 1:500 (Outline Design) and each preference setting displays similar data
though makes allowance for scales.

a) Sets centreline to correct colour /

line-style / weight
b) Scales text to correct size and
places it on the correct level.
c) Sets size of dumbell to suit out
put scale, and places it on the
correct level.
d) Rails are set to the correct level
and weight
e) Stationing is set to suit scale,
correct colour / line-style /
weight
f) Stationing can be set either to
the left or right of the alignment

Annotate profile. Similarly we have created a series of preference settings for displaying the data
boxes along the bottom of the profiles. Again this gives us a consistent looking output. For example
this will set:

continued on next page

 22
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.
a) Sets boxes to correct colour / line-style / weight
b) Sets grid information to correct colour / line-style / weight
c) Scales text to correct size and places it on the correct level
d) Sets which geometry data is required for type of drawing i.e. for a feasibility design there
would be no need in showing Cant, Speed boxes, whereas these would be required on Form B
drawings.

It’s a hard one to call, to which software is better when it comes to displaying Horizontal and Vertical
annotation. However I may just be swayed towards BRT, for if nothing else the user friendliness of
preference file, well that is once you have worked out what, does what. However if you want to dis-
play something different then the software does not seem very flexible, though in most cases there
are work-a-rounds. For example:

When generating Longitudinal Sections we would normally show horizontal geometry Radii, length
etc. and associated cardinal points in the same row, similarly vertical data would be shown in the
same format. BRT does the same, the only difference being it separates the cardinal points out into a
separate row, to the curvature detail and the vertical alignment. However there is a work-a-round to
fix the problem. Which is create the curvature and cardinal rows one above the other, set the cardinal
row height to zero and offset the text such that it appears centrally to the curvature row.

View 3D elements unfortunately I am not at the moment impressed with viewing designs in 3D and
if anyone can suggest a better way please let me know. With Mx your design is always three dimen-
sional, rotate it round to an isometric or side view and you can clearly see the proposed design rising
and falling according to the profile. Not so with Inrail, if you view the proposed design from any
angle, all radii appear to be disconnected from the adjacent elements. A quick check using Check in-
tegrity will show that the elements are very much OK. When you interrogate the geometry it seems to
place all the radii at the same elevation as the first element. Bentley’s did suggest using Horizontal
Annotation, place a tick in Planarize. But all this did was connect all the elements at zero elevation.
However there is a command called 3D alignment and yes this does do what it says and does display
the alignment correctly.

Conclusion Conclusion

What can I say in summing up is that both Mxrail and Inrail have their weaknesses. When PB UK rail
transferred to the windows environment, the majority of its designers used the Mx software in one or
other CAD environment (Microstation or AutoCAD). Though one or two did opt to use the standalone
version. However most of us were used to having the CAD functionality1 to hand. So changing to
Bentley Rail track has not caused any real problems with productivity.

Having the CAD functionality is a real plus, for example viewing reference data without having it as
an inherent model in the display. In-fact you have now got complete flexibility in one place.

continued on next page

 23
And what of Bentley Rail Track (BRT) against Mxrail -
cont.
Bentley Rail Track adapts to any infrastructure workflow, increasing efficiency. It delivers a high de-
gree of flexibility, with added power of an integrated geometry model that brings into play all factors
that influence the project.

The result is significant productivity improvements and time savings, whilst giving users a greater op-
portunity to optimise the geometry and reduce costs.

What of the course!! The general feeling was that it was very good. Very well presented from people
that knew what they were talking about. The documentation was well set-out and easy to follow.
Although those that attended the Godalming course felt that the section “surface modelling” was
covered a bit too quickly, however the course was compressed into 3 days and all subjects were cov-
ered. The Manchester course did last a full week, the first two days dealing with Microstation followed
by Bentley Rail track. The feeling was that they didn’t have enough time to complete everything in
BRT but they felt they had covered enough to set them on their way.

Finally Finally

There is a way to go until the PB UK design competency of Bentley Rail Track is on par with Mxrail,
but it will come with every project undertaken using the software.

1Mark Hellier – Exeter UK had covered CAD functionality and Mx in his Newsletter articles starting
January 2009. I know that Mark concentrated on Mx but the same flexibility exists when designing
with Bentley Rail Track.

Bright Ideas
The following Bright Ideas submitted by Frank Ryan, Princeton, New Jersey

Did you know…

In MicroStation V8i there is no longer a variable to suppress the registration screen from the end
user. After 3 times of being prompted to register, there is a Skip Registration Button that will appear
on the Registration Screen. Otherwise, the registration screen will appear 1 time per week for a total
of 10 times.

If you choose, you may register the product yourself using the registration screen or your CADD Man-
agement may bulk register your users through Select Server.

For pre V8i applications the MicroStation registration screen can be disabled by using the following
variable.
Frank Ryan – New Jersey, US

MS_OTWREG_NOCHECK=1
To submit your ‘Bright Idea’ please send them to
Angela Snider at snider@pbworld.com.
 24

AU Start Planning Now for AU 2009

2009

Each year, the Autodesk University (AU) User Conference and Exhibition brings together over 9000
Autodesk enthusiasts from around the world to learn, network, and celebrate the power of Autodesk
technology and the international AU community.

As the largest gathering of Autodesk users, developers and partners, AU creates a unique setting
where companies and institutions of all sizes can gain valuable information and learn strategies to
help them thrive in today’s economy.

The Benefits of Attending AU

Autodesk University 2009 is your chance to meet with the top experts in your industry and learn
about the latest trends and technologies that will help you stay competitive.

• Listen to high-quality presentations about real-world projects and future applications.

• Experience hands-on labs that advance your knowledge of Autodesk tools and techniques.
• Share the professional expertise of the world’s top instructors, Autodesk developers, and
industry experts.
• Cultivate important business and professional contacts that can benefit your company and
your career.
• Meet with a community of your peers at a live event in a world-class venue.

AU 2009 will be here before you know it! So start planning now to attend. We know you will find this
annual event extremely valuable, and you will have a great time too!.

AU 2009 will be held at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Hope to see you at the conference December 1–3, 2009!

Never Been to Autodesk University?

Find out what AU attendees had to say about their AU experience.

http://au.autodesk.com/?nd=au2009_02&und=94
 25
About Be Connected
BE
Connected

Be engaged, be informed and be empowered

The Be Connected online seminar series offers a stream of educational and informative content about
real-world infrastructure projects and the best practices and software products used to design, build
and operate them.

Stay on top of the latest trends in practice and

technology for infrastructure
Bentley developed the Be Connected online seminar series to bring information about current best
practices and technology improvements to infrastructure professionals everywhere. Using streaming
media via the web, it’s a sustainable way to learn from fellow architects, engineers, contractors and
owner/operators to help you and your organization work smarter.

Professional conference content without registration fees or

travel expense
Be Connected is available at no charge to anyone who registers and delivers the kind of professional
level content usually found at trade and professional organization conferences without the expense
and hassle of travel.

Seminars for every interest

The Be Connected online seminar series offers a wide variety of content for infrastructure profes-
sionals across multiple disciplines and specific formats. “Solutions Best Practices” are presented by
leading infrastructure professionals and bring a “project perspective” on best practices for the design,
construction and operation of specific types of infrastructure projects, including:

• Bridges
• Cadastre and Land Development
• Communications
• Electric and Gas Utilities
• High Performance Buildings
• Mining and Metals
• Oil and Gas
• Rail and Transit
• Roads
• Water and Wastewater

“Product Update” seminars are presented by Bentley product management teams to demonstrate the
latest features and capabilities of Bentley’s V8i software products. continued on next page
 26

About Be Connected - cont.

Career development from your desktop
By learning how other infrastructure professionals from around the world are using new workflows,
information technology and delivery methods to be successful in their practice, you will gain new
insight about how to leverage these tools and techniques to be more productive and to advance your
career. A transcript of the seminars you attended and the Bentley Institute Learning Units received
will be available to you via your personalized “My Seminars” page.

Watch Live or OnDemand

We understand that the demands of project deadlines and scheduling conflicts can make it difficult to
attend seminars at a specific time. That’s why every presentation in the Be Connected online seminar
series is also offered OnDemand within 24 hours of the scheduled live seminar presentation, so you
can view your chosen seminars at a time that works best for you. The first live presentation of each
seminar will include a live Q&A teleconference, giving you the unique opportunity to interact with
leaders in your field and gain in-depth answers to your questions.

Seminar Guides to help you get the most out of Be Connected

Depending on your specific area of interest, Seminar Guides will recommend a series of relevant semi-
nars, helping to ensure you get the most out of the Be Connected online seminar series.

Group viewing of Be Connected seminars

Do you want to view either a Live or OnDemand Seminar with a group of your colleagues? You can
view seminars and still earn Bentley Learning Units for each seminar viewer.

http://connected.bentley.com/?BI=homepage&v=events+beconnected

Bentley
Roads &
Bridges
Conference
 27

Resources PAN 7 Intranet Resources

Visit the PAN 07 Intranet Home Page and clicking on the Library links on the home page. If you experience technical difficulties you can contact any of
the following Steering Committee members for assistance.

CADD PAN Coordinator

Rebecca Arsham San Francisco, (US) +1 (415) 243-4767 arsham@pbworld.com
Global PAN Steering Committee
Rebecca Arsham San Francisco, (US) +1 (415) 243-4767 arsham@pbworld.com
Fred Babin Columbia, (US) +1 (803) 227-3415 babinf@pbworld.com
Rob Griffith Manchester, (UK) +44 (0) 1925-296-539 griffithr@pbworld.com
Lisa Perrett Cardiff, (UK) +44 (0) 29-2082-7072 perrettl@pbworld.com
Frank Ryan Princeton, (US) +1 (609) 734-7015 ryanf@pbworld.com
Greg Smith Wellington, (NZ) +64 (4) 499-1000 smithg@pbworld.com
Angela Snider Seattle, (US) +1 (206) 382-5232 snider@pbworld.com
Richard Tabe Melbourne, (AU) +61 (3) 9861-1180 taber@pbworld.com
Regional User Group (RUG) Leaders
Joseph Redden – Americas Columbus, (US) +1 (614) 791-5183 reddenj@pbworld.com
Lisa Perrett – EAME Cardiff, (UK) +44 (0) 29-2082-7072 perrettl@pbworld.com
Greg Smith – OSEA Wellington, (NZ) +64 (4) 499-1000 smithg@pbworld.com

Manager, Corporate Knowledge Program: Chris Rivinus New York (US) +1 (212) 465-5539 rivinus@pbworld.com
Knowledge Networks Coordination: Janet Runes Denver (US) +1 (303) 887-1258 runes@pbworld.com
Newsletter Editor: Angela Snider Seattle (US) +1 (206) 382-5232 snider@pbworld.com
Newsletter Layout: Paula M. Borkowski Buffalo (US) -1 (716) 853-1220 borkowski@pbworld.com

This newsletter is intended to foster the free-flow of ideas and information among members of the CADD Applications Practice Area Network. The
opinions expressed by the writers are their own and are not necessarily those of PB. This and past issues of the CADD PAN Newsletter are available
on PBWorldnet in the Newsletter File Cabinet. Technical questions are encouraged to be submitted through the IT Support website.
Information contained in this document has been compiled utilizing various resources, including input from the end users of CADD within PB.
2009, Parsons Brinckerhoff Inc., One Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10119, 1.212.465.5000 All Rights Reserved. Sponsored by the Corporate
Knowledge Program. Articles may be reprinted with permission of the PAN Coordinator.