erroneous "Element is on a locked level" message

Question

Hi there,

I just encounter a strange error message that severely impacts my work flow:
- I’ve created several 2D graphics in separate DGN files from EPS files
- I’ve copied those 2D graphics individually into a DGN master file
- Once I try to manipulate an imported 2D graphic in the master file, some elements seem to be locked and display the message “Element is on a locked level”. I can’t move or do anything else to those elements.
- The layer those “locked” elements are on is not locked, though neither are the individual elements.
- I’ve also tried a different approach by referencing the separate DGN files with the 2D graphics and then “Merge into Master” but I encounter the same problem with the erroneous “Element is on a locked level” message.

How can I import those elements and manipulate them? Some elements seem to work fine but some seem to be locked and the locked ones are all BSpline curves.

Thanks you for your help in advance!

Kurt

PS: Already tried the obvious, saved file under different name, restart the MS, restart the computer, etc.

Tim Hickman · Answer

Go to the Edit pulldown and choose "select all", then go back to the Edit pulldown and choose "unlock" - left click to accept. Do the elements function as you need them at this point ?

Gene L. · Answer

Settings > Locks > Level 
 It seems, at least in Microstation, when this is toggled on you can only manipulate elements your currently active level. Toggling it off should allow freedom to work with all levels, assuming it isn't also locked in the level manager.