mtgreen

Hello! I am using Vectorworks to create stage plots for a show and, like all things, the stage plots are constantly changing. Is there a way to add a text field that auto updates to the current time and date upon publishing? It would be very convenient to always know if the sheet that our team has in front of them is the most current and we do that by referencing the time the item was published. Currently I update the text box with a custom linked value right before I publish. But I would love if it would just do it on it's own. I tried using data tags and custom linked values but could not find a way to make it work like I want. Any ideas or work arounds?

So I've been doing a lot of research and digging into Unreal Engine lately as an alternate way of doing previz. I've noticed UE supports GDTF fixtures and you can import a GDTF fixture into the DMX tool and all the profile setup is done automatically. You can already export CAD models with texture from Vectorworks into Unreal via Datasmith. Is there any chance in the future we will see a way to export from VWX into Unreal using a combo of Datasmith and GDTF to get all the venue CAD information into Unreal along with all the fixture information via GDTF for a seamless drawing to previz solution? Seems not that far off.

Yes, I actually just tried this and it's definitely the right direction. Still struggling to get the subdivision points to push/pull how I want. But I believe you are correct about that being the next step.

I’m looking for a way to create a 3D model of a surface for an install. The trace of the curves looks like this. I did this with the poly line tool. I’m struggling to find a way to now convert this into an interpolated surface to be able to push and pull different sections of each shape to create the 3D effect. Does anyone know of a way to achieve this? I tried redrawing the shapes with the NURBS Curve tool, but can’t find a way to do the straight edges. The final goal is something like the image below, where the drop shadows would be created by the rise and fall of the shapes.