UI - Comparison to the MicroStation User Interface


 Product(s):OpenBuildings Designer
 Version(s):CONNECT Edition
 Area:User Interface
 Subarea:N/A

Question

Is the AECOsim Building Designer CONNECT Edition User Interface similar to MicroStation CONNECT Edition?

Answer

Yes, AECOsim Building Designer CONNECT Edition User Interface is based on and extends the MicroStation CONNECT Edition User Interface. For a quick video tour of the new User Interface, please download AECOsim Building Designer CONNECT Edition - Ribbon Interface Tour

AECOsim Building Designer now uses a ribbon interfaces.  All of the ribbon tabs for AECOsim Building Designer are contained in the AECOsim workflow. All of the workflows for MicroStation are also included.

A ribbon interface is composed of the following:

  1. File Tab - opens the Backstage, where you can perform operations related to external files, importing and exporting files, and accessing Help.
  2. Quick Access Toolbar - contains the workflow selector drop-down list and frequently used commands.
  3. Core tabs - contains one or more groups and are always accessible (as opposed to Contextual Tabs, which only appear when certain commands are active).
  4. Group - a labeled set of related commands or tools.
  5. Ribbon Search - enter words or phrases to search the ribbon and backstage
    1. Clicking "Show Details" in the search window will allow you to search the detailed tool tips as well as the command name.

  6. Sign-in glyph - Displays when you are signed in as a CONNECTED user.
  7. Minimize - Minimize the ribbon by clicking the "^" icon.
  8. Help - Access help from the ribbon by clicking on "?".

Tip: To quickly return from the Backstage view to your view window, press <Esc>.

Note: Though the toolboxes are not displayed in the ribbon interface, you can open them from the Tool Boxes dialog accessible from the Backstage by choosing File > Settings > User > Tool Boxes .

You may also refer to the LEARNServer course QuickStart for MicroStation CONNECT Edition for Existing Users or The Ribbon: The New Face of the MicroStation CONNECT Edition.