Vectorworks - Add Surface with Hardscapes

Jonathan Pickup introduces a cool technique called Add Surface in Vectorworks. He demonstrates how to use this technique to create steps around corners by selecting a hardscape and a rectangle, and then using the Add Surface command. #Vectorworks # jonathanpickup

Exploring the Challenges of Split Level Houses: A Comprehensive Analysis

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Introduction

In the world of architecture, split level houses present a unique set of challenges that architects must navigate. These houses, characterized by multiple levels that are partially elevated or recessed, require careful consideration and planning to ensure a cohesive and functional design. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of split level houses and explore the various challenges they pose. Through a detailed analysis of a recent discussion in the Architect Special Interest Group, we will examine the specific issues faced by architects when dealing with split level houses and propose potential solutions. 

Theme 1: Understanding the Structure of Split Level Houses

One of the fundamental aspects of split level houses is their unique structure, which often includes a basement, a main floor, and an upper level. However, the exact configuration of these levels can vary, leading to confusion and difficulties in accurately representing them in architectural plans. In the discussion, Sam, a participant, highlights the importance of correctly depicting the mid-level landing, which is a defining feature of split level houses. Jonathan, the host, suggests using a separate layer called "common" to represent the wall that divides the mid-level landing. This allows for greater control over which parts of the building are visible in different floor plans. 

Sam also raises the issue of stairs in split level houses and how they can complicate the representation of different levels. Jonathan proposes using an opening instead of a window or door to create a hole in the wall, as windows and doors in Vectorworks only break holes in the wall they are placed in. By using an opening, architects can accurately depict the stairs and their relationship to the different levels of the house. 

Theme 2: Overcoming Rendering Challenges

Rendering is an essential part of the architectural design process, as it allows architects to visualize their ideas and communicate them effectively to clients. However, when it comes to split level houses, rendering can present its own set of challenges. Tony, another participant in the discussion, shares his experience of losing camera settings and shadows when opening a project in a new version of Vectorworks. Jonathan advises Tony to finish the project in the version he started it in, as updating to a new version can lead to unforeseen issues and time-consuming troubleshooting. 

Jonathan also demonstrates the process of creating perspectives and explores the various rendering options available in Vectorworks. He explains the concept of camera height and look-to-height ratio, which determine the parallelism of verticals in architectural renderings. He also introduces the concept of depth of field and its impact on the focus and clarity of different elements in a rendering. By adjusting the camera settings and lighting sources, architects can create realistic and visually appealing renderings of split level houses. 

Theme 3: The Implications and Future Outlook

The challenges faced by architects when dealing with split level houses have significant implications for the architectural industry as a whole. The need for accurate representation and effective communication in architectural plans is crucial to ensure successful projects and client satisfaction. By addressing the specific challenges of split level houses, architects can enhance their design process and deliver exceptional results. 

Looking to the future, advancements in architectural software, such as Vectorworks, will continue to streamline the design process and provide architects with more tools and options to tackle the complexities of split level houses. The integration of features like unlimited lights and shadows in shaded renderings, as well as the ability to adjust exposure and focal length, will further enhance the quality and realism of architectural visualizations. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, split level houses present unique challenges for architects, requiring careful consideration and innovative solutions. By understanding the structure of split level houses, overcoming rendering challenges, and embracing advancements in architectural software, architects can navigate these challenges and create stunning designs. The insights shared in the Architect Special Interest Group discussion shed light on the intricacies of split level houses and provide valuable guidance for architects facing similar design dilemmas. As the architectural industry continues to evolve, architects must stay informed and adapt to new technologies and techniques to deliver exceptional results in the face of complex design challenges.

You can see the movie of this webinar here...

Exploring the Power of Landscape Sections: A Comprehensive Guide

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Introduction

Welcome to the Landscape special interest group! In this article, we will delve into the world of landscape sections and explore the various techniques and tools that can be used to create stunning and accurate representations of outdoor spaces. We will also discuss the importance of hardscape design and how it can be seamlessly integrated into your landscape sections. So, let's dive in and discover the power of landscape sections!

Creating Complex Objects with Simple Shapes

One of the key techniques that I find incredibly useful when creating landscape sections is the ability to create complex objects by drawing two simple shapes and then combining them. By using the "create objects from shape" feature, I can easily convert these shapes into objects and manipulate them to create intricate and detailed landscape sections. This additive approach allows for quick and efficient design iterations, saving both time and effort.

The Versatility of Hardscape Design

Hardscape elements play a crucial role in landscape design, providing structure, functionality, and aesthetic appeal to outdoor spaces. While there is a dedicated hardscape tool in Vectorworks, I often find it quicker and more intuitive to create hardscape using simple shapes such as rectangles. By drawing a rectangle and converting it into a hardscape object, I can easily define the size and shape of the hardscape element. This flexibility allows for precise control over the design and ensures that the hardscape seamlessly integrates with the overall landscape.

The Importance of Materials in Hardscape Design

When creating hardscape elements, it is essential to consider the materials used. Vectorworks provides a wide range of pre-defined materials that can be applied to hardscape objects, allowing for realistic and accurate representations of different paving materials. By selecting the appropriate material, you can control the texture, density, and appearance of the hardscape element. Additionally, materials play a crucial role in calculating the mass and embodied carbon of the hardscape, making them an essential consideration for sustainable design practices.

Controlling Elevation and Datum in Hardscape Design

Elevation and datum are critical factors to consider when designing hardscape elements. By setting the elevation relative to a specific point, such as the top or bottom of a stone paving, you can ensure that the hardscape aligns correctly with the site model. This alignment is crucial for accurate calculations of cut and fill volumes, as well as for maintaining consistency throughout the design process. By carefully selecting the elevation and datum, you can create hardscape elements that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape.

Harnessing the Power of Section Viewports

Section viewports are a powerful tool for visualizing and communicating landscape designs. By creating section viewports, you can cut through the landscape and showcase the intricate details of your design. Vectorworks offers a range of options for customizing section viewports, allowing you to control the scale, visibility of layers and classes, and advanced properties such as length and height ranges. These features enable you to create dynamic and informative section views that effectively communicate your design intent.

Leveraging Viewport Styles for Consistency and Efficiency

Viewport styles are a game-changer when it comes to maintaining consistency and efficiency in your design workflow. By creating and saving viewport styles, you can easily apply predefined settings to new section viewports, ensuring that they adhere to your desired standards. This not only saves time but also ensures that your section viewports have a consistent look and feel across different projects. Additionally, viewport styles allow for easy modifications and updates, making it a breeze to fine-tune your section views as your design evolves.

Implications and Future Outlook

The use of landscape sections and hardscape design techniques has significant implications for the landscape architecture industry. By leveraging these tools and approaches, designers can create more accurate and visually appealing representations of outdoor spaces. This not only enhances the design process but also improves communication with clients and stakeholders. Furthermore, the integration of sustainable design practices, such as embodied carbon calculations, allows for more environmentally conscious landscape designs.

Looking ahead, we can expect further advancements in section viewport technology and hardscape design tools. As software continues to evolve, we can anticipate more intuitive and streamlined workflows, enabling designers to create stunning and sustainable landscapes with ease. Additionally, the integration of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies may revolutionize the way we experience and interact with landscape sections, providing immersive and interactive design experiences.

In conclusion, landscape sections and hardscape design are powerful tools that enable designers to create accurate, visually appealing, and sustainable outdoor spaces. By leveraging the capabilities of Vectorworks and embracing innovative design techniques, landscape architects can push the boundaries of their creativity and deliver exceptional designs. So, let's continue to explore and harness the power of landscape sections to shape the future of landscape architecture.

You can watch the movie of this webinar here...

3D Modeling Special Interest Group October 2024

Join us for the 3D modelling special interest group next week. We are looking at what's new on Vectorworks 2024, specifically the new camera, rendering modes, and working planes. As well as that, I'll be answering your questions on 3-D modelling problems. These are always great fun, these sessions, the users always come with questions that need to be resolved and we go through the steps needed to fix or solve these challenges.

Click here to learn more...

What’s New in Vectorworks 2024

Join us next week for the workshop on what's new in Vectorworks 2024. There are always a lot of new features every time the update Vectorworks, but that's not the important thing. The important thing is what are the benefits to you. That's what this workshop is all about what are the benefits for you using these new features and how do we unlock these features for you.

Click here to learn more...

Learn how to create and manage viewports in Vectorworks 2023

The Power of Viewports: A Comprehensive Guide

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Welcome to the Getting Started special interest group. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Viewports and explore how they have evolved over time. Join me as we uncover the intricacies of creating and managing Viewports, and discover the immense potential they hold for enhancing your design process.

The Evolution of Viewports

Viewports have come a long way since their inception, and it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest changes. In previous versions of Vectorworks, we had the legacy feature of screen plane working plane. However, these legacy features have now become obsolete, and it's crucial to adapt to the new system. In the past, when creating a viewport crop, we had to ensure that the object was on the screen plane. However, with the new changes, this is no longer a concern.

 

Creating a Viewport Crop

 

To create a viewport crop, we start by drawing a rectangle over the desired object. This rectangle will serve as the crop and will effectively crop out everything outside of it. Once the rectangle is drawn, we can go to the View menu and select "Create Viewport." It's important to give each viewport a unique name, as the name serves as an identifier. Additionally, we can choose to create a new sheet layer for the viewport, which helps with organization and management.

The Importance of Naming Viewports

Naming viewports may seem like a tedious task, but it is crucial for effective management. When working on projects with multiple viewports, it can quickly become a nightmare to navigate through them without proper naming conventions. It's essential to develop a habit of naming viewports accurately and descriptively. While it may take a little longer to type in the names initially, it saves a significant amount of time and effort in the long run.

 

Managing Viewport Settings

Once we have created our viewports, it's important to understand how to manage them effectively. One useful tool for managing viewports is the Eyedropper tool. With the Eyedropper, we can copy viewport settings from one viewport to another, saving time and ensuring consistency. Additionally, the Select Similar tool, often referred to as the "Magic Wand," allows us to select multiple objects with similar properties, making it easier to make changes across multiple viewports.

 

Exploring Lighting and Rendering Options

Viewports offer a range of lighting and rendering options that can greatly enhance the visual impact of our designs. By utilizing environmental lighting, we can create a more realistic and immersive experience. Environmental reflections and object reflections add depth and dimension to our viewports, making them more visually appealing. Additionally, adjusting the render settings, such as the stroke style and wobble, allows us to customize the appearance of our drawings to match our unique style.

 

The Power of Clip Cube

One of the most powerful features of viewports is the Clip Cube. By activating the Clip Cube, we can create dynamic views that focus on specific areas of our design. This is particularly useful when showcasing interior spaces or complex architectural elements. The Clip Cube allows us to cut through our design and reveal hidden details, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the space. By combining the Clip Cube with render settings and lighting options, we can create stunning visual representations of our designs.

 

Implications and Future Outlook

 

The advancements in viewport technology have revolutionized the way we approach design. With the ability to create dynamic views, manage settings efficiently, and customize render styles, viewports have become an indispensable tool for designers. The future of viewports holds even more potential, with the possibility of style presets and further enhancements to streamline the design process. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect viewports to become even more powerful and intuitive.

In conclusion, viewports are a game-changer in the world of design. They offer a range of features and options that allow us to create stunning visual representations of our designs. By understanding the intricacies of viewports and utilizing their full potential, we can elevate our design process and deliver exceptional results. So, embrace the power of viewports and unlock a world of possibilities in your design journey.

Architect webinar September 2023

I've uploaded the Architect webinar movie for September 2023. If you're a subscriber to my website or if you're a member on my YouTube channel, you'll be able to watch this. 

www.archoncad.com 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvftfxlvkvJb6BBr2eqRpw/join

Creating a Versatile Library Object: The Pergola

Creating a Versatile Library Object: The Pergola

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Introduction

In this session, we will explore the process of creating a library object for a pergola that can be easily reused and modified in different projects. We will discuss the importance of making certain elements flexible, such as the columns and beams, and explore different options for achieving this flexibility. Additionally, we will delve into the use of styles and symbols in Vectorworks to streamline the creation and modification of the pergola object.

The Power of Styles and Symbols

The use of styles and symbols in Vectorworks allows us to create objects that can be easily modified and reused. By utilizing styles, we can make certain elements of the pergola object flexible while keeping others fixed. For example, by creating a styled column, we can easily update the dimensions of all the columns in the pergola simultaneously. As the host explains, "By using styles, we are making sure that all of these are exactly the same."

Symbols, on the other hand, provide a way to group multiple objects together and treat them as a single entity. This is particularly useful when creating complex objects like the pergola, where multiple components need to be duplicated and modified. By converting the columns, beams, and rafters into symbols, we can easily copy and paste them, making it more efficient to create the overall structure of the pergola.

The Versatility of Structural Members

While symbols are a powerful tool for creating and duplicating objects, the host introduces another option for the beams and rafters: structural members. The structural member tool offers even more flexibility than symbols, allowing for the creation of complex shapes and the ability to modify end conditions. With the structural member tool, we can easily adjust the bevels and angles of the beams and rafters to achieve the desired design.

The host demonstrates how the structural member tool can be used to create beams and rafters with different end conditions, such as bevels and miters. This level of control allows for more intricate and customized designs, catering to the specific needs and preferences of the project. Additionally, the host highlights the ability to assign different graphic styles to the structural members based on their position relative to the cut plane, further enhancing the visual representation of the pergola.

The Benefits of Using a Combination of Styles and Symbols

By combining the use of styles and symbols, we can create a library object for the pergola that offers both flexibility and efficiency. The host explains that using styles for the columns ensures consistency and ease of modification, while symbols allow for the grouping and duplication of complex components like the beams and rafters. This combination of styles and symbols provides a comprehensive solution for creating and modifying the pergola object.

Furthermore, the host emphasizes the advantages of using styles and symbols in the context of BIM reporting. By assigning classes to the different components of the pergola, we can generate reports that provide detailed information about the structure. This can be particularly useful for estimating material quantities, calculating weights, or determining the size of transportation needed for the pergola.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, the creation of a versatile library object for a pergola involves a careful balance between styles and symbols. By utilizing styles, we can ensure consistency and flexibility in the dimensions and materials of the columns. Symbols, on the other hand, allow for the efficient duplication and modification of complex components like beams and rafters. The combination of these two approaches provides a comprehensive solution for creating and modifying the pergola object.

Looking ahead, the use of styles and symbols in Vectorworks will continue to play a crucial role in streamlining the design and documentation process. As the software evolves, we can expect to see further enhancements and features that make it even easier to create and manage library objects. By staying up to date with these developments, designers and architects can maximize their efficiency and creativity in their projects.

In this webinar, we will look at creating a pergola. We will have several choices in the way we create this, whether or not we use building information modelling principles, and the reasons why we would choose one way or the other. We will then save this as a library object for use in other projects. We will cover how to create the pergola, how to create a symbol, how to choose the correct options for the symbol, and how to use that symbol in other projects.

Members can register for this webinar here...

 

Trimming a Complex Roof

I saw somebody struggling with joining to Ruth together. This is an old trick of mine and it works really well for joining to roofs.

YouTube Memberships available

We have added memberships to the Jonathan Pickup YouTube channel. The memberships allow you to support the channel for a small cost, you can get early access to movies, you can watch some of the live sessions, or you can join in with the live sessions. Here is a movie that explains what you get form the membership. 

 

Exploring the Power of Site Modifiers and Hardscapes

  

Landscape Special Interest Group: Exploring the Power of Site Modifiers and Hardscapes

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Introduction

In this session, we will delve into the fascinating world of site modifiers and hardscapes in Vectorworks. Our goal is to understand how these tools can be used to create stunning landscape designs and explore their potential implications and impact. We will also address some common challenges and provide insights into best practices. So, let's dive in!

The Power of Site Modifiers

One of the key topics we discussed in this session was the use of site modifiers to manipulate the terrain and create the desired landscape features. We started by examining the functionality of site modifiers in relation to messing models. By enabling the use of site modifiers, we can hide or reveal specific parts of the messing model, allowing for greater control over the design.

 

For example, we explored the concept of making the land slope away from an object. By using a planar pad mode in the site modifier, we can create a pad that slopes the ground away from the object. This technique is particularly useful when designing landscapes where the ground needs to be modified to accommodate specific features or structures.

 

To achieve a smoother transition between the modified and unmodified areas, we discussed the use of mesh smoothing. By enabling mesh smoothing in the site model settings, we can create a more visually appealing landscape with less noticeable blocky edges. This feature can greatly enhance the overall aesthetics of the design.

 

Another interesting technique we explored was the use of grade limits within grade limits. By placing a grade limit inside another grade limit, we can create areas where the ground reverts back to its original contours. This allows for more precise control over the shape and elevation of the landscape, resulting in a more natural and visually pleasing design.

 

The Mystery of Retaining Edges

 

During our discussion, a question arose regarding the purpose of the retaining edge tool in relation to site modifiers. It seemed puzzling why we would need a retaining edge tool when the site modifier itself can achieve similar results. The answer lies in the flexibility and versatility of these tools.

 

While site modifiers offer a wide range of options for modifying the terrain, the retaining edge tool provides additional control over specific areas. For example, the retaining edge tool allows us to create different elevations within a site modifier, resulting in unique and visually appealing designs. This level of customization may not be achievable with site modifiers alone.

 

Exploring Fence Design with Hardscapes

 

In addition to site modifiers, we also delved into the world of hardscapes, specifically focusing on fence design. We explored the fence railing tool and its various settings to create custom fence designs. One of the challenges we encountered was the placement of the infill panel behind the posts, which proved to be difficult to achieve within the tool's limitations.

However, we discovered a workaround by using rectangular posts instead of circular ones. By adjusting the thickness of the infill panel, we were able to create the illusion of the panel being placed behind the posts. Although not a perfect solution, this technique can still produce visually appealing fence designs, especially when viewed from a distance or in a rendered visualization.

 

Implications and Future Outlook

 

The power of site modifiers and hardscapes in landscape design cannot be understated. These tools provide designers with the ability to shape and mold the terrain to create stunning and functional landscapes. The flexibility and customization options offered by these tools allow for endless possibilities in design.

However, there are still some limitations and challenges to overcome. The inability to offset the infill panel behind the posts in the fence railing tool is one such limitation. While we found a workaround, it would be beneficial for future updates to include this functionality within the tool itself.

Looking ahead, we can expect further advancements in site modifiers and hardscapes, with more intuitive and user-friendly features. As technology continues to evolve, landscape designers will have even greater control over the design process, resulting in more innovative and visually striking landscapes.

In conclusion, the Landscape Special Interest Group has shed light on the power and potential of site modifiers and hardscapes in Vectorworks. These tools offer designers the ability to create breathtaking landscapes with precision and ease. While there are still some challenges to overcome, the future looks promising for landscape design in Vectorworks.

So, let your creativity soar and explore the endless possibilities that site modifiers and hardscapes have to offer. Happy designing!

Easy Plant Tags

I have a client that would like to create her own plant tags and just the style that she wants with just the information she requires. This technique is going to allow them to create their own tag Styles, quickly and easily so they just get the design they want. This technique can be used on most objects to quickly create the required tag style.

This technique has just been updated in Vectorworks 2024. If you want to see how it's been improved, then join me next week for a webinar on what's new on Vectorworks 2024. The link for the webinar is on my YouTube memberships. Click here to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvftfxlvkvJb6BBr2eqRpw/join

Control Plant Graphics

I saw somebody having trouble controlling plant graphics, if you use classes inside your plant objects, plant graphics are easy to control, let me show you how. #jonathanpickup #vectorworks

Exploring the Power of 3D Modeling: A Comprehensive Guide

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Introduction

In the world of design and engineering, 3D modeling has become an essential tool for creating complex objects and structures. With the advancements in technology, we now have the ability to create intricate designs and simulate real-world scenarios with ease. In this article, we will delve into the world of 3D modeling and explore some of its most powerful features and techniques.

Slicing Objects and Making Adjustments

One of the fundamental aspects of 3D modeling is the ability to slice objects and make adjustments to their size and shape. By using tools such as the split tool, we can easily cut objects at specific angles and create new shapes. As the host explains, "I tend to use this option a lot (selected object only). It allows me to filter what I'm cutting and ensures that I don't accidentally modify objects that aren't selected."

Additionally, the host demonstrates how to make precise adjustments to the size of an object before performing any modifications. By using the push-pull tool, they can easily change the dimensions of the object in the X, Y, and Z directions. This flexibility allows for quick and efficient adjustments to be made before moving on to more complex operations.

Creating Holes and Adding Details

Another powerful feature of 3D modeling is the ability to create holes and add intricate details to objects. The host demonstrates how to use the smart edge tool to acquire the edge of an object and create guidelines for precise placement. By using the circle tool and offsetting it from the edge, they can easily create holes at specific distances from the edge.

Furthermore, the host showcases the versatility of the push-pull tool by demonstrating two different modes: extrude face and move face. The extrude face mode allows for the creation of a face that is parallel to the original face, while the move face mode extends the object without altering its perpendicularity. These tools provide designers with the flexibility to add or remove material from an object with ease.

Editing Features and Going Back in Time

One of the most powerful aspects of 3D modeling is the ability to edit features and go back in time to make changes. The host explains how the edit features command allows for the selective editing of specific features within an object. By choosing the feature to edit, designers can make adjustments to individual components without affecting the rest of the object.

Additionally, the host demonstrates how to go back in time and edit the original shape of an object. By double-clicking on the object, they can access the original 2D shape and make changes to its dimensions or position. This level of flexibility allows for iterative design processes and the ability to fine-tune objects to meet specific requirements.

Filleting and Chamfering Edges

Filleting and chamfering edges are essential techniques in 3D modeling that allow for the creation of smooth transitions and beveled edges. The host showcases how to apply fillets and chamfers to edges, both in plan view and in 3D. By selecting the appropriate edges and specifying the desired radius, designers can create aesthetically pleasing and functional objects.

Furthermore, the host demonstrates how to edit fillets and chamfers after they have been applied. By accessing the edit features command, designers can modify the size and position of fillets and chamfers to achieve the desired effect. This level of control allows for the fine-tuning of objects and the ability to make adjustments as needed.

The Limitations and Workarounds

While 3D modeling offers a wide range of capabilities, there are certain limitations and challenges that designers may encounter. The host highlights the issue of failed fillets and the need to ungroup objects to resolve them. By ungrouping objects, designers can remove fillets and regain the ability to edit the original shape of the object.

Additionally, the host addresses the issue of complex objects and the potential difficulties in editing them. They demonstrate how to overcome these challenges by breaking down the object into smaller components and making adjustments to each component individually. This approach allows for greater control and flexibility in the design process.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, 3D modeling is a powerful tool that enables designers and engineers to create intricate and detailed objects. With the ability to slice objects, create holes, add details, and edit features, designers have unparalleled control over the design process. While there may be limitations and challenges, there are workarounds and techniques that can be employed to overcome them.

Looking to the future, advancements in 3D modeling technology will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. With the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, designers will have access to even more sophisticated tools and capabilities. The future of 3D modeling is bright, and it holds immense potential for innovation and creativity in the design and engineering fields.

Trouble Moving the Hardscape Tag

 I sometimes have trouble moving the hard scape tag. To get around this I turn off the slope definition, this makes it so much easier. #vectorworks #jonathanpickup

Sum Vaules or Summerize Items?

 When you're dealing with worksheets what is the difference between sum values and summarise items #Vectorworks #jonathanpickup

Show Landscape Areas on the Site Model

Learn how to make your landscape areas appear on your site model while keeping the landscape areas in their own layer. #Vectorworks #jonathanpickup

See Your Data!

Data Visualization is the ability to see the data attached to objects visually. For example, you might want a map of a city showing the ages of the buildings, you might want to see the same map showing the height of the buildings. You might want to see which walls are insulated, and what kind of insulation that is. Again, we can use data visualization to graphically display this information. So, for example, we might have a plan with walls, and the walls might have information attached that lets us know whether that’s a load bearing wall or non-load bearing wall, whether it’s got sound insulation or thermal insulation. #jonathanpickup

Introduction to Worksheets in Vectorworks

 Worksheets

Vectorworks offers the possibility of  creating spreadsheets within the drawing.  That means you can tally anything, create databases, extract information from objects and do mathematical operations and functions without having to leave Vectorworks.

These spreadsheets, or worksheets as they are called in Vectorworks, are linked to the source of the information. Hence worksheets can easily be updated when the source information changes. In other words, any changes done in a drawing can easily be updated in the respective worksheets.

The most powerful worksheets in Vectorworks are databases linked to Symbols or Plug-in Objects listing the data entered in the different fields.  As you add these objects into the file you can update the worksheet and check the information.  

An example of this would be a bracing spreadsheet that tracks the bracing objects in the drawing.  As you add bracing objects the worksheet tracks the number, type and length of the brace and puts this information into the worksheet, telling you if you have achieved enough bracing in each direction.  

You can classify the worksheets into a few different groups depending on the nature of the worksheets:

• Carry out mathematical operations with the parameters of drawn objects: areas, perimeters, volumes etc.  Name the objects ( Object Info Palette) and find their properties and combinations.

• Count / select objects ( generally symbols ) in the file.  They do not need to have a record attached and they need not be in the same Class or Layer.  We can choose to count symbols on a specific layer or assigned to a specific class.

• Create reports using symbols with records and list the field values of the symbols in the report.  

• Create reports of objects that have plug-in parameters and using the report to edit the objects.

Webinars to cover worksheets are next week, join me.