Hi,
I want to build an application that imports data into MicroStation from an excel file. The data should be imported in the form of MicroStation elements(not as an image like in case of Paste/Special Paste). The data should maintain to the input excel,so that if there are any updates in the input file, they are reflected back into MicroStation.
Please do not suggest any related Product.
Any help is appreciated!
Thanks.
Unknown said:I want to build an application that imports data into MicroStation from an Excel file. If there are any updates in the input file, they are reflected back into MicroStation
That's hard. You need to code something in Excel that creates an event in MicroStation. Alternatively, an observer in MicroStation that reacts to changes in the specified workbook file. How do you propose to achieve that?
You've tagged your post in way that indicates you're planning to use a .NET API with MicroStation V8i. Be aware that that version of MicroStation doesn't really have a .NET API. You can, for example, write C# code that calls the MicroStation VBA COM server via a .NET InterOp. That doesn't get around the fact that you will be using VBA, which has no provision for interprocess communication (with Excel or anything else) and no way of monitoring an external file.
You've also added a tag ConvertToGraphicCell, which doesn't seem to have much bearing on your question. Perhaps you would like to clarify what you're asking.
Regards, Jon Summers LA Solutions
Thanks for the reply Jon.
Let me explain it in more detail.
We do have a table_V8i macro in Microstaion V8i that reads data from a csv file and imports it into MicroStation.
I want to build a similar functionality, where input is in the form of excel. In addition, there is a "link" created between input excel and microstation,which can be used to update the changes.
I am okay using any approach,.Net,VBA or macros to create this.
MicroStation CONNECT Edition has a tool which does pretty much exactly what you describe. I don't know if you consider that a 'related product' or not.
Which tool?
The Place Table tool.
You can select an excel worksheet (or a range within it) and place it as an annotation into your model.
You can optionally retain a link back from the table to the worksheet, in which case the table can be updated when the contents of the worksheet change.
Jon posted a link to the relevant docs below.
The Place Table tool
Your link doesn't work for me. Perhaps this link to the Place a Table from an Excel Workbook help will work?
Cool!
Given link isn't working for me. Could you please provide a working link?
Unknown said:Given link isn't working for me
It's not working for me, either, today!
The link should take you to MicroStation CONNECT on-line help, and topic To Place a Table from an Excel Workbook. If that still doesn't work then I suggest that you download the CONNECT installation and look at the help supplied.
Easy fix Jon, your link above ends in v8 whereas the original link 4 days ago contains v9. Switch the 9 for the 8 and you get this which works fine:
Place a Table from an Excel Workbook
Unknown said:your link above ends in v8 whereas the original link 4 days ago contains v9
What else do you do in your spare time? Thanks for spotting that!
ce still has the same draw back with excel updates as previous versions in that they are not automatic I know we can key in TABLE REFRESH ALL.
but couldnt that be a variable option in configs or run as a macro on start up... if one is going to link an excel from external source then you want it autorefresh when you open mstn. no after you open msnt. if you dont want that then you dont link it you embed it like old school pre CE..FYI the auto update has never worked from first version msn had it listed as an option .. nice to see it still doesnt work in in CE...
Lorys
Started msnt work 1990 - Retired Nov 2022 ( oh boy am I old )
But was long time user V8iss10 (8.11.09.919) dabbler CE update 16 (10.16.00.80)
MicroStation user since 1990 Melbourne Australia.click link to PM me