Difference between Classes and Layers

[AMGeorge]

Hello,

I have been using Vectorworks for around 5 years now but only on files that other people have made. I was wondering, when i am building a new theatre in vectorworks how i should be using classes and layers. I have got a design layer for the building itself and then another one for lighting positions but i don't understand how classes relate into this, what should i be using the classes for?

[zoomer]

Classes = "What" vs Layers = "Where"

You will use Layers to control Visibility, Edit ability and Separation of larger Themes, like :

Layer_Theatre_Building

Layer_Lights

...

So you can easier edit your Lights without being hidden from building geometry.

Depending on complexity you will want to further divide your project :

Layer_Theatre_Building_1stFloor

Layer_Theatre_Building-2ndFloor

....

Layer_Lights_1stFloor

...

This will allow separation of whole Theatre Parts and help drawing as Layers can have

different Z-Height values.

Classes are what is normally called "Layer" in other software.

These will further divide in separation of the single individual parts, like :

Class_Lights_0100W

Class_Lights_0500W

Class_Lights_1000W

....

Class_Building_Walls

Class_Building_Columns

Class_Furniture_Seat_Fabric

Class_Furniture_Seat_Chrome

...

Together with both, Classes and Layers, you can easily switch between Stories/Floors

of you Theatre with all Content (Building+Lights)

AND/OR

Just work on Lights only, without the Building

AND/OR

Just work on all 500W Lights only, with or without Building as a Reference

[AMGeorge]

Thanks for your help.

I have got rather confused with being in the right layer/class but i expect that will come with practice on drawing in vectorworks more than anything.

[AMGeorge]

Another question, Can i move objects to difference classes? if i have created them when in the wrong class.

Thanks for your help.

[zoomer]

In your Object Info Palette (OIP)

If you have any selection, on top of the OIP are 2 dropdowns for Layer and Class.

There you can change/assign different Layer/Class for selected Elements.

[AMGeorge]

Thank you.

Inother quesetion, nothing to do with layers or classes, how do i makde lighting fixtures actually sit on the bars? I have placed them on the bar in the top/down view but when i go 3D they are under the theatre. This is rather frustrating.

Thanks

[zoomer]

Sorry, I'm no Spotlight user and haven't any clue about that light workflow ...

[mjm]

In order for lighting fixtures to automatically assume positional height, they need to be touching an object which has been parameterized as a lighting position. That lighting position must have a 'Z' height, then the position and fixture will all be at the correct 'Z'.

[rDesign]

Thank you.

Inother quesetion, nothing to do with layers or classes, how do i makde lighting fixtures actually sit on the bars? I have placed them on the bar in the top/down view but when i go 3D they are under the theatre. This is rather frustrating.

Thanks

To follow up on mjm's advice, the Vw2016 Help File page on Lighting Design Workflow should get you started. HTH.

[AMGeorge]

Thanks for both you.

That has helped me out a lot.