Creating Distribution PDF Files Guideline

CREATING DISTRIBUTION PDF FILES RULES:

  1. This guideline is not applicable to Public Hearing Map PDF files.
  2. This guideline is not applicable to Right of Way Recordation Process.
  3. Appropriate preliminary stickers and notes should be placed in the Microstation files before PDF files are distributed.
  4. Distribution PDF files are not part of the permanent plans package considered for turn in. They are not to be stored in any Roadway's folders and should not be archived with the rest of the project.
  5. If the PDF files are less than 4000 KB (4 MB), then they can be emailed.
  6. If the PDF files are more than 4000 KB (4 MB), then they can be delivered via FTS or regular mail courier on CD.
  7. There are two (2) common methods used by Roadway Engineers to create distribution PDF files.

    Iplot Organizer - Appropriate when these conditions apply:
    • An IPS file has been created.
    • Several sheets are needed.
    • Level displayed is controlled through the design script.

    Bentley PDF Print Driver - Appropriate when these conditions apply:
    • No IPS file has been created.
    • A few sheets are needed.
    • Level displayed in controlled though a Microstation pen table or WYSIWYG. Note that Microstation pen tables are not the same as iPlot design scripts. Roadway Design uses iPlot design scripts for all DGN plots.

 

APPLICATION:


Two common ways to create distribution PDF files in Roadway Design:

Iplot Organizer
Bentley PDF Print Driver


Iplot Organizer
  1. Open an IPS file.
  2. Select the sheet for PDF creation.

    NOTE:

    If more than one (1) sheet is selected, then multiple sheets will be stacked in a single PDF file. It is recommended that for the majority of the time, one (1) sheet is created per one (1) PDF file.

    If multiple PDF files are created, it is recommended that all PDF files are stored in a single separate folder. Designers can FTS the content of this single folder.
  3. Click on the Menu, File, Export PDF...
  4. Set PDF Options.

    NOTE:

    A resolution of 200 DPI is recommended for most cases.

    For half size IPS files, since the sheet is already rotated 180° in the IPS file (90° CCW in PDF), rotation of PDF sheet should be set to 90° clockwise.

    For full size IPS files, since the sheet is already rotated 90° in the IPS file, rotation of PDF sheet should be set to 0°.

  5. Create PDF.

    RECOMMENDATIONS:

    PDF files should be named the same format as the DGN files, but without the DGN extension.

    PDF files should be placed in the same folder as the DGN file.

    Click on this PDF file to see the example product.
  6. Repeat steps 2 thru 5 for other sheets.
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Bentley PDF Print Driver
  1. Open an DGN file.
  2. Place a fence around an area to create a PDF from.
  3. Click on the Menu, File, Print.
  4. Set Print PDF Options.

    NOTE:

    First, change the printer driver from Windows Printer to Bentley Driver under the Printer and Paper Size frame.

    Choose pdf.plt if prompted to select a printer file driver file. To make sure the correct driver is selected, click on the magnifying glass next to it.

    Also under the Printer and Paper Size frame, choose the Paper size.

    ANSI A - 8.5" x 11"
    ANSI B - 11" x 17" (half size)
    ANSI D - 22" x 34" (full size)

    For color, change Full color to Monochrome.

    If a scale is to be used, then key in the scale in the Print Scale field. Otherwise, maximize the plot area (no scale) by clicking Settings, Maximize. Also, the maximize shortcut icon is the third tool box from the left, up top.
  5. Print to create PDF file. Click the first icon to print or click File, Print...

    Click on this PDF file to see the example product.
  6. Repeat steps 2 thru 5 for other areas or sheets.
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Disclaimer: The content on the CADD Tutorial Web Pages are to be use as a general guide in producing a set of NCDOT Roadway plans. It should not be used as the sole reference to seal a set of plans. All other official manuals, such as THE ROADWAY DESIGN MANUAL and AASHTO A POLICY ON GEOMETRIC DESIGN OF HIGHWAYS AND STREETS (The "Green" Book) take precedence. The content contained on the CADD Tutorial web pages has no legal merit.