Data shortcuts

Last updated: 2021-11-09

Total video time: 10:04

Exercise files: c3d-intrfc-data-c3d20.zip

ProjectID\Design\Corridors\Corridor-STH25-4thAve.dwg

ProjectID\BaseData\Mapping\ExistSurface.dwg

Overview

c3d-intrfc-data-shrtct-01.mp4 2:24

Exercise file: Existing Surface.dwg

Provides selective object data for use in other files

surfaces
alignments
profiles
corridors
pipe networks
pressure networks
view frame groups

Files must be attached to a "project"

Object geometry is in one file, can be referenced into many other files. Allows for different styles to be applied to the same object in different references.

Data References can be used simultaneously

Control/distribution of geometry held in XML file

Data shortcut folder relationship

c3d-intrfc-data-shrtct-02.mp4 2:46

Working Folder = Path where projects are stored (level above project folders)

Project Folder = in working folder path where project files are stored

"_shortcut" folder = inside Project folder, where actual data shortcuts reside

The data is in XML format
DO NOT edit these files – this is for Civil 3D to access/manage

If a project is moved, these locations are relative.

Data shortcut process

c3d-intrfc-data-shrtct-03.mp4 4:53

Right-click on Data Shortcuts > Set Working Folder
Right-click on Data Shortcuts > New (or Set) Project Folder
Right-click on Data Shortcuts > Create Data Shortcuts

Now that project path and folder are established, this step is repeated throughout project.