File > Import model from DXF or PNT

Loads a model from a DXF (AutoCAD-DXF) or PNT (Point file format) file.

Once loaded the user can execute any desired Map3D Analysis Stage.

To add or edit mining blocks and set up the Map3D analysis use

Analysis > Go to CAD.

While loading the model Map3D checks for basic consistency of the modelling parameters (e.g. if a material is used, its properties must be specified in the material list).

You will be prompted to search for a model file name, location and file format. Models can be loaded from several file types:

•AutoCAD-DXF format is a popular drawing exchange file with the extension ".DXF". This format is useful for exchanging model data with other CAD software.

•Point file format is a universal ASCII data file with the extension ".PNT". This format is useful for exchanging raw model data with other CAD software.

The model geometric and material data being loaded can either overwrite or be merged with existing model data. The overwrite/merge options:

Note that geometric information is imported as Fictitious Force - FF type elements (used for three-dimensional features such as excavations, alternate material zones, back-filled stopes etc.). If you want to use these as Displacement Discontinuity - DD type elements (used for tabular mining excavations, fractures and fault planes) you will need to edit these using CAD > Edit > Entity Properties and change the element type.

•File > Open > Merge Geometries

•File > Open > Merge Materials

appears at the bottom of the open file dialogue box.

Merging multiple files into one model

You may select multiple files simultaneously by holding the standard windows "shift" or "ctrl" keys for multiple selections.

These files will be merging into one model/database.

This allows you to keep separate parts of model data in different files then easily merge them together into one model/database.

Another way of merging multiple files is to select the "Merge Geometries" option prior to selecting the additional file you want to add to the existing model/database.

This is useful if you already have a model open and want to add additional model data to this.

Notes:

For quick access at a later session, each time you open a file its name is saved under

File > Recent Files

and the working directory is saved under

File > Open > Recent Directories.

To load analysis results use

File > Open Analysis Results.

To restart an analysis that was aborted or interrupted by a power failure or operating system crash use

File > Restart an Analysis.