Does anybody out there know what software generates *.tin files?
I've got a client that asked for a "tin" to be included with his cad drawing. I generated a surface (3d tin) and shipped it off. He's called and asked if I can give him a .tin file. It's apparently just an ascii with a specific header and designators on the vertices, but can't find out what generates these files.
Lots of cad software can import a .tin file, but I can't figure out what makes one.
Any ideas please?
Carlson Civil Survey will produce a .tin surface model.
Pacsoft also generated a .tin file, which is not the same.
In my opinion, the best way to exchange surfaces is to give them a CAD drawing containing the surface model boundary (internal and external), the 3D breaklines drawn as poly lines, and the 3D triangles. Most modern CAD engineering software can generate surface models by selecting the 3D triangles. When drawn on top of each other, it also gives them a visual check that the triangles of the new surface match the original surface.
I would export using version R14/2000 autocad to avoid compatibility issues.
JRL
I wonder if the following link may provide some insight. I never heard of the program myself, but....
If you are working in LDD look in the project subfolder "DTM" and there should be the surface1.tin file or whatever you named the surface. I would suggest sending him a "etransmit" file as it will include all the files needed for the project.
Usually, the .TIN files come from Microstation products.
LDD has .TIN files as well, but they are very different, and the LDD .TIN files are not useful unless you also have the .PNT file.
If your client is asking for a .TIN file, he probably has Microstation, and you would use LandXML to give him your surface.
Thnx for the input, guys. Yes the client uses microstation. I do a lot of my at home in autocad, but have Eagle Point/V8 at the office. We've shipped them a surface in microstation...I don't know what sort of design-cad they're using with microstation (it's a utility company)..
Oh well, gives me something to do Monday morning.
See if your program can export an *.xml file. I have a client that was having to recreate tins from my drawings/ We talked about it, and the *.xml file worked wonders for him. It might help you both!
Export "3D Faces",it's what he is looking for.
:coffee:
