User Interface Reference

The following image shows the main elements of the Grading Optimization interface. It may appear slightly different depending on the software from which you are using the Grading Optimization tools.

Grading Object Tool Palette. This tool palette in Civil 3D allows you to tag drawing elements as grading objects for optimization. If the palette is not open, click Analyze tab > Grading Optimization panel > Grading Object Tools in Civil 3d. Each object listed contains default constraint data. You can right-click any object tool to edit the default values applied when used, or create additional customized objects.

Grading Objects Browser Panel. This tab opens the Grading Objects Browser Panel. This tree directory categorically displays each object tagged from the drawing. Selecting a grading object will display the currently specified constraints assigned to it.

Optimization Panel. This tab opens the Optimization Panel. This panel provides feedback through the active optimization process for slope constraint violations and cut-fill balancing. Reviewing this information, you can stop optimization, readjust your project constraints, and begin optimization again if needed.

Visualization Display. This is the viewing area for the optimized grading data. Several display themes are available to view the surface during and after optimization. The slide to the left of the display exaggerates the contours of the surface to help view subtle changes in elevation.

Help and Learning Panel. This panel provides in-context guidance as you work in Grading Optimization. Workflows, example drawings, and links to relevant learning content are also available.

Optimization Toolbar. This bottom array of tools allows you to specify global constraints, mesh and triangle quality, visualization options, and convergence plotting views. Once everything is specified, click Optimize to begin the process.