build a 2D based off a 3d object

[Jayme McColgan]

I built a plugin that inserts some 3d objects. I'd like to also add a 2d representation of that if the object doesn't have one. What's the best way to take the "top" of a 3d object and turn it into a 2d object?

 

wow, I hope that makes sense... lol 

[JBenghiat]

It depends a little bit on what the objects are. If they are parametric geometry, the cleanest and fastest results will be to calculate the top view and draw it.

 

An Autohybrid is just a PIO with the 3D geometry in its profile group, so you could place an Autohybrid to take care of the 2D component.

 

You can get the best results from vs.Generate2DFrom3DComp. https://developer.vectorworks.net/index.php?title=VS:Generate2DFrom3DComp That requires your objects to either already be symbols and PIOs or to place your 3D geometry inside a temporary symbol or a NNA_TransformGroup PIO, but that requires a bit of longer explanation than would be suitable for the forum.

[Jayme McColgan]

using vs.Generate2DFrom3DComp() will work just fine for me. thanks!