contour Shape files

[ChrisA]

Hi

I am trying to create a topo for a site and convert contour shapefiles supplied by the local zoning department. (Extensions .shp)

Any ideas on how to convert this info. Or is there another source that can supply the info I need.

Thanks

Chris

[CipesDesign]

In VW's 2013 there is an "Import Shapefile" command. For earlier versions I would ask them to provide you with a .dwg file which you can import. Disclaimer: I have not tried the Import Shapefile command so I have no idea if it works well. Perhaps someone here can report??

[Tamsin Slatter]

Shapefiles are essentially 2D polygon information, with records attached. You cannot get 3D information in a Shapefile. So, you can import your contours as Peter describes, but the only way to get elevation data from it is to select the contour and click the Data tab on the Object Info palette. You will be able to see what the record is that's attached to the contour and what it contains.

You can't easily create a site model from this information, because the data isn't inherently 3D and therefore has no Z value. However, you could convert the polygons to 3D, and then change their Z values as required (by reading the elevation value in the attached record - if it has it). It could be a painful process, but the @D Polys to 3D Contours command might help you.

DWG is better if you can get it, and I would recommend Spot heights as 3D Point data if you can get them. Vectorworks can create the contours for you from the spot heights, which will import as 3D Loci. Then, you need to run Create Site Model.

Hope that helps

[CipesDesign]

Hi Tamsin, thanks for the clarification regarding Shapefiles. Very enlightening. P

[ChrisA]

Thanks from the other side of the pond!

Ill give it a go.

Regards

Chris

[JuanCarlos]

This scrip will do the trick

http://techboard.vectorworks.net/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Main=35797&Number=181308#Post181308