• BeamViz 6

The post BeamViz 6 User Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

version 4.5.0

User Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to your Workspace | Registration | Overview

In Detail

– Placing in the Drawing

– Linking to a Position

– Object Parameters

– Known Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The Savvy Position Label is a plug-in object for labeling lighting positions and providing automatically updated notes about the position. The Savvy Position Label links to all Rigging Object types and as well as Truss Systems and Truss Lines and schematic views of those objects.

Savvy Configuration

Choose from numerous configuration options, allowing the Label to confirm to your personal drafting standard. The Savvy Position Label supports text styles and classes for granular control of its presentation.

Savvy Placement

The label is a separate object from the Lighting Position Object, so you can nudge or duplicate independently from the position. You can, optionally, have the label move with the position.

Savvy Label Text

Because you don’t always display the same position name on the plot that you use in the paperwork, the Savvy Position Label lets you display the first word, last word, just number, or custom text, with a prefix or suffix. Pipe A displays as A. #2 Electric becomes 2E, etc, while still automatically linking to the position name.

Savvy Note

An optional note lets you add tokens to automatically display US DS and SL SR coordinates, location, trim height, pipe length, and weight, which always stay up to date. You can also show summaries of attached objects to and component parts of the position.

Requirements

Vectorworks® Spotlight 2020 and above.

Installation

If you haven’t already, download the Savvy Position Label.

1. The installer will have a .vwlibrary file extension for use with the Plug-in Manager. Do not manually install this file
2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager
3. Select the Third-party plug-ins tab
4. Click the Install… button
5. Navigate to and select the saved installer file
6. Read and confirm the EULA
7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install. In the Plug-in Manager, you will see Savvy Position Label in the Built-in Plug-ins section.

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support for support options and to report bugs.

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

Getting Started

Adding to your workspace

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Edit Current Workspace.
2. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Menus categories on the left hand side.
3. Drag the Add Savvy Position Labels… and Update Position Label Notes menu command to the menu tree on the right side.
4. Select the Tools tab.
5. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Tools categories on the left hand side.
6. Drag Savvy Position Label to a tool palette on the right.
7. Click OK.

Registration

The first time you use the Savvy Position Label, Vectorworks will ask you for a registration number or demo code. You can also access the registration dialog through the “About” button in the object’s Object Info palette. The Savvy Savvy Position Label will not draw without a valid code, however if you remove the Savvy Position Label plug-in from your user folder, you will still see all lineset objects but in a locked state. The Savvy Position Label is also part of the Savvy Subscription Series.

Overview

Insert the Savvy Position Label via the object tool or the included menu command. Labels can link to a Hanging Position for the label text and data displayed in the Label’s note, or you can enter custom text. A variety of display options are available in Object Info.

Placing in the drawing

The Savvy Position Label insertion tool

1. Select the Savvy Position Label insertion tool

   
2. If you want to immediately link the label to a Hanging Position or set an unlinked position location, make sure the Link Button is enabled in the mode bar.
3. Optionally, select the Alignment parameter for the label in the mode bar. See Parameters.
4. Optionally, set the insertion alignment of the label. The origin of the label is the first character for Left Alignment, last character for Right, and center for Center.
5. Click in the drawing to insert the label and set the rotation.
6. If you selected the Link mode, you will see a line connecting the label to a place-link cursor. Click on a Hanging Position to set the link. You will see the Position Object highlighted and the cursor change as you hover over it with your mouse.

   

7. If you do not select a position while in Link mode, the point on which you click determines the position’s location, which appears in the label’s note and to which the label’s leader line points. This can be useful when identifying a boom location in plan view, for example.

The Add Savvy Position Labels menu command

1. Select Hanging Positions to which you want to add labels.
2. Select the Add Savvy Position Labels… menu command.
3. Select options in the dialog:

   The position option sets the position of the label around the Hanging Position, as well as Alignment and Arrow Angle parameters so that the arrow points towards the Position.

   
   

   The offset specifies the distance from the edge of the position to the insertion point of the label. A positive value measures away from the position in any direction.

   
   

   Show options will raise the Label’s default parameters dialog before placing labels.

   

Linking to a Position

Linking Labels to Positions synchronizes the Label with the Position name and moves the label when you move or duplicate the position. Linked labels can also automatically display various data about the position and attached items in the Label’s note.

Inserting Position Labels using the above methods link the Label to a Position.

Linking Existing Labels to Positions

To associate an existing Label with a Position, you can use the control point grip in the drawing to the Link to Position dialog.

Using Drawing Grips

Savvy Position Label indicates the link to the position with a chain link icon. When you hover over this icon, the cursor changes to a hand. You can click to pick up the link and drop it on another position.

Using the Link to Position Dialog

Cclick the Set Link button in Object Info, or right-click on the label and choose Set Link…

In the resulting dialog, select from a list of positions in the drawing, identified by name, or choose Click on drawing to select to exit the dialog and use your cursor to select a Hanging Position in the drawing.

Unlinking a Label from a Position

To unlink a label from a position, use this dialog, or right-click on a label and select Unlink.

Linking to Truss Systems and Lines

When linking to a Truss object, you can link the label to a single truss piece, or the entire Truss System or Truss Line. This affects both the label displayed and the data displayed in the note.

In the Label section of Object Info, select Truss Piece, Truss System, and Truss Line. If the Label is linked to an object other than Truss, this option has no effect.

Linking to Rigging Objects in Viewports

Savvy Position Label objects can link to objects inside viewports, including section viewports, updating data and tracking the location of the position. Due to a limitation in Vectorworks, you can only set the link to the position via the list in the Link to Position menu.

Object Parameters

As with all Plug-In Objects, the first time you place a Savvy Position Label object in a document, Vectorworks will ask you for default parameters. You can set the default object parameters for the document by selecting the object’s tool, then clicking on the parameters button in the mode bar.

Parameter	Description
Text Style	Pick a text style for the label. To set a default text style, use class options to set the text style by class.
Style	Use this menu to apply, create, or modify a Style definition for the label. Label styles appear as “red” symbols in the Resource Manager, and specifies whether parameters reference the style definition. For more information, see Concept: Plug-in Object Styles in Vectorworks help.
Hide Style Parameters	Enable this option to hide any parameters linked to a style definition.
Linked to	Read only field displaying the name of the position to which the label is linked. When you select a Position Label, you will also see a link icon in the drawing indicating the link.
Set Link	Raises a dialog where you can select a Hanging Position to link to the label. You can also opt to click on a position object or unlink the label from a position.
Edit Position Name	Use this button to edit the name of the position. If the Label links to a Truss System, you can use this to edit the name of the System.
Alignment	Left / Center / Right: Determines the text alignment and arrow position for the label.
Move with position	Enable this to move the label as you move the position, as though they are grouped. Moving the label, however, does not move the position.
3D Rotation	Enter a value for rotating the 3D component of the label around its horizontal axis.
3D Only	By default, the Savvy Position Label is hybrid, with the label appearing both in plan view and at the z height of the position. The 3D component of the symbol can only rotate along its horizontal axis, so a typical label would then face forwards with a 90 degree 3D Rotation. Setting the label to 3D only allows the planar label to rotate to any 3D plane. In this mode, you do not see a 2D version of the label in Top / Plan.
Label
Label Display	Determines how the position name displays in the label. Full: The full name. First word: The first word, before a space. E.g. “1 Electric” would be “1.” Last word: The last word, after a space. E.g. “A Pipe” would be “A.” Only Number: Extracts a number from the name. e.g. #4 Elec would be “4.” Custom: Ignores the position name and uses the text field below. If you do not link a label to a position, the object sets this option as default.
Cust. Label	Use with the Custom label display option to completely override the position’s name.
Prefix	Adds a prefix before the label text.
Suffix	Adds a suffix after the label text.
Truss Identity	When the Label is linked to a Truss object, you can link to a single truss piece, a truss line, or the entire truss system. This option affects both the Label text as well as any data in the Note.
Shape
Container	Circle / Rectangle / Rounded rectangle / Diamond / None: Choose a container for surrounding the label. The circle and diamond containers will surround the first or last character in left or right modes.
AutoFit	Fit the container to the label text.
Width	If AutoFit is disabled, specify the size of the container, in page units.
Padding	Add an additional amount of white space between the text and container, in page units.
Draw shadow	Add a drop shadow to the container.
Use Class Options	Use the shadow options assigned to the class for the container.
Shadow Settings…	Set the shadow options for the Container drop shadow. This uses the same interface as in the Attributes palette.
Arrow type	Triangle / Arrow / None / Symbol: Choose an arrow that points from the label to the position. You can also select no arrow and a custom symbol for the arrow.
Symbol	If you select the Symbol option above, specify the symbol here. This is a text field for ease of copy and paste. Use the button below to select a symbol resource.
Select symbol	Select from available symbols.
Arrow Angle	90 / 0 / –90 / Custom: Sets the arrow straight, up, or down, depending on orientation. Select Custom to set an angle via the field below.
Cust. Angle	Enter a custom arrow if chosen above.
Arrow scale	Scale the arrow to refine the look of the label. A scale of 1 equals 100%.
Mirror Arrow	Enable this option to display an arrow on both sides of the label.
Note
Show note	Enable this to show a note below the label.
Text Style	Optionally, set a separate text style for the note.
Alignment	Choose to align the note consistently with the label or specify its own Left, Center, or Right alignment.
Wrap note	Enable this to wrap the note to the length of the container.
Fit container to note	With this option enabled, the container grows to include the note text.
Note	The note text. This field is for easy access and copy / paste.
Edit note	Presents a dialog for editing the note. The note can be multiple lines and can insert tokens that will update with data about the position and attached items. After selecting one of the options in the lower section of the dialog, click Insert to insert placeholder text at the cursor point. Special Fields: X Measurement, Y Measurement, and L/R Measurement take their data from the Label’s Position control point, which defaults to the Hanging Position’s insertion point. Move the control point or set the data fields below to specify any point in the drawing. SL/SR Indicator will display “SL” or “SR” depending on which side of x=0 the location control point lies. Location takes its data from the Position’s Location field, which can store a lineset number or other location data. Pipe Length gets its data from the length of Lighting Pipe, Straight Truss, or Line geometry used for the Hanging Position. Trim gets its data from the Hanging Position’s z height. A setting can specify an offset for the display trim if trims are not measured to the stage floor. Weight calculates the total hung weight of the Rigging Object and any attached items. Truss Height/Width will display the dimensions of the cross section of truss. DMX Footprint will total the number of DMX addresses needed for a position. This will only include Moving Lights, Accessories, Devices, and SFX. Summary of attached items or component parts: Use these options to include a summary of objects attached to the position (Lighting Devices, Speakers, Softgoods, etc.) or component parts of a Truss System, Truss Line, or Hanging Position. Count – Totals the unique types of data for the specified parameter of the specified object. Set the parameter to to count objects of that type. For example, Count of Lighting Device Channel will tell you how many unique channels are in that position. Count of Truss will give you the total number of truss sticks in a system. Sum – Totals numerical data in the specified parameter for attached objects. For example, Sum of Soft Goods AdjustableLength will calculate the total linear feet of drape attached to the position. Max / Min – Displays the largest or smallest value of the chosen parameter.  For example, Min/Max of Lighting Device Circuit Name will tell, respectively, you the first and last circuit names in that position when sorted alphabetically. List – Lists all the values for the selected field and the total quantity for each value. For example, List of Lighting Device Instrument Type will display the quantity of each instrument type used in the position. Rigging Object Field: Displays any parameter for the attached Rigging Object or data field of a record attached to the rigging object.
Rounding	Round the coordinate data by this value.
Adtl. Trim Offset	Enter a value to offset the reported trim from the position’s z height. Useful for trimming above rakes and platforms.
Auto position note	Enable this to automatically position the note below the label.
Leader Line
Position X, Y	The coordinate of the position that displays in the note. This also corresponds to a control point in the drawing. If the label is linked to a position and set to move with the position, this coordinate will adjust as you move the position.
Reset Leader	Resets the Position X / Y coordinates to the insertion point of the position.
Flip Leader	Reflects the Position X / Y coordinates across the midpoint of the position.
Draw leader to position	Draws a leader line from the label to the position coordinate.
Leader type	Straight / Bezier / Shoulder: Choose the type of leader line.
Draw symbol at endpoint	Add a symbol to mark the position location, for example a boom marker or rigging point.
Symbol Name	The name of the symbol. This field is provided for ease of copy / paste.
Symbol Rot	Rotation of the position marker symbol.
Select symbol	Choose an available symbol resource for the position marker.
Classes
Auto-Class	Enable this to class each component with default class names. The prefix for subclasses can be determined in settings.
Container Class	Class for the container geometry.
Arrow Class	Class for the arrow. If no by-class options exist for the arrow, it will fill solid black.
Shadow Class	Class for the container drop shadow.
Leader Class	Class for the leader line.
Note Class	Class for the note text.
Update	Any changes to the Hanging Position that affect the Savvy Position Label text, placement, or note should automatically update the Label, but this button will force an update to catch any unreflected changes.
Settings…	Set settings that affect all Savvy Position Label Objects Default insertion class: Choose a class for new Label objects. You can also opt to insert labels in the active class. Component class prefix: Enter a base class name that the Auto-Class option will use to build class names. Trim offset: Enter an offset for the trim display, for example to display trims above a show deck height, with this value subtracted the Hanging Position’s Z height. Note, the trim starts at the layer’s elevation. Make default for all new documents: Select this option for these settings to be default values for all future new Vectorworks documents.
About	See version and registration information

The post Savvy Position Label 4 User Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

version 2.0.0

Users Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to your Workspace | Registration |  Overview

In Detail

Savvy Sequencer dialog

Introduction

Requirements

Vectorworks 2012 or higher

Installation

If you haven’t already, download the Savvy Sequencer Installer from the JBLD downloads page . There are links to download for 2012/2013 or 2014/2015.

For installation to Vectorworks 2012 or 2013:

Make sure Vectorworks is not running.  Run the Savvy Sequencer Installer.  Select your version of Vectorworks. The installer will install a folder called “-JBLD Savvy Sequencer” in your user Plug-Ins folder, containing the Savvy Sequencer menu command.

The Windows installer allows you to select a custom location for your Plug-Ins folder.  Mac users with a custom user data location or Windows users having trouble with the installer can download the “Raw installer” and manually drag the “-JBLD Position Pipes” folder to Plug-Ins.  For more information, see this FAQ .

For installation to Vectorworks 2014 or 2015:

1. The installer package must remain a zip file.  If your system automatically unzips archives, right-click on the download link and select “Save Link As” to prevent your browser from auto-expanding the download.
2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager
3. Select the Third-party plug-ins page
4. Click the Install… button
5. Navigate to and select the saved installer zip file
6. Read and confirm the EULA
7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install .

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support  for support options and to report bugs.  

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

  Getting Started

To use the Savvy Sequencer command, you must add it to your Workspace.

  Adding to your Workspace

To add Savvy Sequencer to an existing workspace:  

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Workspace Editor or Edit Current Workspace… .
2. In the Menus  tab, click the disclosure triangle next to  JBLD in the list of Menu categories on the left hand side.
3. Drag Savvy Sequencer to an existing menu on the right, for example, Tools.
4. Click OK .

Registration

The first time you use Savvy Position Sequencer, you will be asked for a registration number or demo code.  You can also access the registration dialog through the ” About ” button at the bottom-left of the Sequencer Dialog.

Overview

The Savvy Sequencer will add sequential text labels or data entries to selected objects, based on their screen arrangement. The Sequencer will work with existing text objects or create new ones, look inside groups for text, and apply date to either attached record or plug-in parameter fields. Sequences can be numeric or alphabetic, start at any point, have any increment, and include leading or trailing text. The sort order can be as a linear or rectangular array or traverse objects in a circle.

For a list of key features and screenshots, visit the  Savvy Sequencer product page .

  In Detail

Dialog Options

The post Savvy Sequencer 2 User Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

version 2.0.0

User Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to your Workspace | Registration | Overview

In Detail

– Placing in the Drawing

– Linking to a Position

– Object Parameters

– Known Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The Savvy Position Label is a plug-in object for labeling lighting positions and providing automatically updated notes about the position.

Savvy Configuration

Choose from numerous configuration options, allowing the Label to confirm to your personal drafting standard. The Savvy Position Label supports text styles and classes for granular control of its presentation.

Savvy Placement

The label is a separate object from the Lighting Position Object, so you can nudge or duplicate independently from the position. You can, optionally, have the label move with the position.

Savvy Label Text

Because you don’t always display the same position name on the plot that you use in the paperwork, the Savvy Position Label lets you display the first word, last word, just number, or custom text, with a prefix or suffix. Pipe A displays as A. #2 Electric becomes 2E, etc, while still automatically linking to the position name.

Savvy Note

An optional note lets you add tokens to automatically display US DS and SL SR coordinates, location, trim height, pipe length, and weight, which always stay up to date.

Requirements

Vectorworks® Spotlight 2018

Installation

If you haven’t already, download the Savvy Position Label from the JBLD downloads page.

1. The installer will have a .vwlibrary file extension for use with the Plug-in Manager. Do not manually install this file

2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager

3. Select the Third-party plug-ins tab

4. Click the Install… button

5. Navigate to and select the saved installer file

6. Read and confirm the EULA

7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install. In the Plug-in Manager, you will see Savvy Position Label in the Built-in Plug-ins section.

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support for support options and to report bugs.

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

Getting Started

Adding to your workspace

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Edit Current Workspace.

2. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Menus categories on the left hand side.

3. Drag the “Add Savvy Position Labels…” menu command to the menu tree on the right side.

4. Select the Tools tab.

5. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Tools categories on the left hand side.

6. Drag Savvy Position Label to an existing palette on the right or create a new palette.

7. Click OK.

Registration

The first time you use the Savvy Position Label, Vectorworks will ask you for a registration number or demo code. You can also access the registration dialog through the “About” button in the object’s Object Info palette. The Savvy Savvy Position Label will not draw without a valid code, however if you remove the Savvy Position Label plug-in from your user folder, you will still see all lineset objects but in a locked state. The Savvy Position Label is also part of the Savvy Subscription Series.

Overview

Insert the Savvy Position Label via the object tool or the included menu command. Labels can link to a Hanging Position for the label text and data displayed in the Label’s note, or you can enter custom text. A variety of display options are available in Object Info.

Placing in the drawing

The Savvy Position Label insertion tool

1. Select the Savvy Position Label insertion tool

2. If you want to immediately link the label to a Hanging Position or set an unlinked position location, make sure the Link Button is enabled in the mode bar.

3. Optionally, select the Alignment parameter for the label in the mode bar. See Parameters.

4. Optionally, set the insertion alignment of the label. The origin of the label is the first character for Left Alignment, last character for Right, and center for Center.

5. Click in the drawing to insert the label and set the rotation.

6. If you selected the Link mode, you will see a line connecting the label to a place-link cursor. Click on a Hanging Position to set the link. You will see the Position Object highlighted and the cursor change as you hover over it with your mouse.
   

7. If you do not select a position while in Link mode, the point on which you click determines the position’s location, which appears in the label’s note and to which the label’s leader line points. This can be useful when identifying a boom location in plan view, for example.

The Add Savvy Position Labels menu command

1. Select Hanging Positions to which you want to add labels.

2. Select the Add Savvy Position Labels… menu command.

3. Select options in the dialog:

   The position option sets the position of the label around the Hanging Position, as well as Alignment and Arrow Angle parameters so that the arrow points towards the Position.

   The offset specifies the distance from the edge of the position to the insertion point of the label. A positive value measures away from the position in any direction.

   Show options will raise the Label’s default parameters dialog before placing labels.

   

Linking to a Position

Linking Labels to Positions synchronizes the Label with the Position name and moves the label when you move or duplicate the position. Linked labels can also automatically display the Position’s Length, Trim (z height), Location field, and weight in the Label’s note.

Inserting Position Labels using the above methods link the Label to a Position.

To associate an existing Label with a Position, click the Set Link button in Object Info, or right-click on the label and choose Set Link… In the resulting dialog, select from a list of positions in the drawing, identified by name, or choose Click on drawing to select to exit the dialog and select a Hanging Position in the drawing.

To unlink a label from a position, use this dialog, or right-click on a label and select Unlink.

Object Parameters

As with all Plug-In Objects, the first time you place a Savvy Position Label object in a document, Vectorworks will ask you for default parameters. You can set the default object parameters for the document by selecting the object’s tool, then clicking on the parameters button in the mode bar.

Known Issues

• Adding special fields to the note text makes use of the clipboard. After exiting the dialog, the special field token may remain on the clipboard.

FAQ

###

The post Savvy Position Label 2 User Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

version 1.0.0

User Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to your Workspace | Registration | Overview

In Detail

– Placing in the Drawing

– Linking to a Position

– Object Parameters

– Known Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The Savvy Position Label is a plug-in object for labeling lighting positions and providing automatically updated notes about the position.

Savvy Configuration

Choose from numerous configuration options, allowing the Label to confirm to your personal drafting standard. The Savvy Position Label supports text styles and classes for granular control of its presentation.

Savvy Placement

The label is a separate object from the Lighting Position Object, so you can nudge or duplicate independently from the position. You can, optionally, have the label move with the position.

Savvy Label Text

Because you don’t always display the same position name on the plot that you use in the paperwork, the Savvy Position Label lets you display the first word, last word, just number, or custom text, with a prefix or suffix. Pipe A displays as A. #2 Electric becomes 2E, etc, while still automatically linking to the position name.

Savvy Note

An optional note lets you add tokens to automatically display US DS and SL SR coordinates, location, trim height, and pipe length, which always stay up to date.

Requirements

Vectorworks® Spotlight 2016–2017

Installation

If you haven’t already, download the Savvy Linesets Installer from the JBLD downloads page.

1. The installer package must remain a zip file. If your system automatically unzips archives, right-click on the download link and select “Save Link As” to prevent your browser from auto-expanding the download.

2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager

3. Select the Third-party plug-ins tab

4. Click the Install… button

5. Navigate to and select the saved installer zip file

6. Read and confirm the EULA

7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install.

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support for support options and to report bugs.

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

Getting Started

Adding to your workspace

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Edit Current Workspace.

2. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Menus categories on the left hand side.

3. Drag tue “Add Savvy Position Labels…” menu command to the menu tree on the right side.

4. Select the Tools tab.

5. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Tools categories on the left hand side.

6. Drag Savvy Position Label to an existing palette on the right or create a new palette.

7. Click OK.

Registration

The first time you use the Savvy Position Label, Vectorworks will ask you for a registration number or demo code. You can also access the registration dialog through the “About” button in the object’s Object Info palette. The Savvy Savvy Position Label will not draw without a valid code, however if you remove the Savvy Position Label plug-in from your user folder, you will still see all lineset objects but in a locked state.

Overview

Insert the Savvy Position Label via the object tool or the included menu command. Labels can link to a Light Position Object for the label text and data displayed in the Label’s note, or you can enter custom text. A variety of display options are available in Object Info.

Placing in the drawing

The Savvy Position Label insertion tool

1. Select the Savvy Position Label insertion tool

2. If you want to immediately link the label to a Light Position Object or set an unlinked position location, make sure the Link Button is enabled in the mode bar.

3. Optionally, select the Alignment parameter for the label in the mode bar. See Parameters.

4. Optionally, set the insertion alignment of the label. The origin of the label is the first character for Left Alignment, last character for Right, and center for Center.

5. Click in the drawing to insert the label and set the rotation.

6. If you selected the Link mode, click on a Light Position Object to set the link. You will see the Position Object highlighted as you hover over it with your mouse. Alternatively, click on a point to designate a position location that appears in the label’s note.

The Add Savvy Position Labels menu command

1. Select Light Position Objects to which you want to add labels.

2. Select the Add Savvy Position Labels… menu command.

3. Select options in the dialog:

   The position option sets the position of the label around the Light Position Object, as well as Alignment and Arrow Angle parameters so that the arrow points towards the Position.

   The offset specifies the distance from the edge of the position to the insertion point of the label. A positive value measures away from the position in any direction.

   Show options will raise the default parameters dialog before placing labels.

   

Linking to a Position

Linking Labels to Positions synchronizes the Label with the Position name and moves the label when you move or duplicate the position. Linked labels can also automatically display the Position’s Length, Trim (z height), and Location field in the Label’s note.

Inserting Position Labels using the above methods link the Label to a Position.

To associate an existing Label with a Position, click the Set Link button in Object Info. In the resulting dialog, select from a list of positions in the drawing, identified by name, or choose Click on drawing to select to exit the dialog and select a Light Position Object in the drawing.

You can also use this dialog to unlink the label from a Position.

Object Parameters

As with all Plug-In Objects, the first time you place a Savvy Position Label object in a document, Vectorworks will ask you for default parameters. You can set the default object parameters for the document by selecting the object’s tool, then clicking on the parameters button in the mode bar.

Known Issues

• Adding special fields to the note text makes use of the clipboard. After exiting the dialog, the special field token may remain on the clipboard.

• The Savvy Position Label tries to detect if you are duplicating labels and positions together or just labels. Selecting multiple labels with a position to duplicate, for example labels that flank a position, can be unpredictable. In this case, select only the position, and let Savvy Position Label duplicate the labels for you.

FAQ

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The post Savvy Position Label User Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

The post ProjectionViz 1 Users Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

Beam Draw

version 4.0.1

Users Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to an Existing Workspace | Registration | Overview

Workflow

• Insert in the Drawing
• Adjusting Parameters
• Viewing the Beam in 3D
• Reverse and Repeat
• Creating a Consistent System of Lights
• Channeling Beams
• Converting Beams to Spotlight Lighting Devices
• Move Beams to a Layer
• Making a Magic Sheet

In Detail

• Beam Draw
• Beam Draw PAR
• Beam Draw Section
• Cycle BD Redraw Mode
• Section Beam to Plan
• Use Light Info for Selected
• Update Beams from Focus Pt
• Channel Beams
• Convert Beams to Instrument
• Move Beams to Layer
• Select Beams
• Select PAR Beams
• Select Section Beams
• Select All Beams
• About Beam Draw…
• Beam Draw FAQ
• Beam Draw Help
• Submit a Beam Draw Bug
• Changing Default Parameters

Introduction

Requirements

Vectorworks 2012 or higher

Installation

For installation to Vectorworks 2012 or 2013:

Make sure Vectorworks is not running. Run the Beam Draw Installer. Select your version of Vectorworks. The installer will install a folder called “-JBLD Beam Draw” in your user Plug-Ins folder, containing the Beam Draw plug-in objects and menus.

The Windows installer allows you to select a custom location for your Plug-Ins folder. Mac users with a custom user data location or Windows users having trouble with the installer can download the “Raw installer” and manually drag the “-JBLD Beam Draw” folder to Plug-Ins. For more information, see this FAQ.

For installation to Vectorworks 2014 or 2015:

1. The installer package must remain a zip file. If your system automatically unzips archives, right-click on the download link and select “Save Link As” to prevent your browser from auto-expanding the download.
2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager
3. Select the Third-party plug-ins page
4. Click the Install… button
5. Navigate to and select the saved installer zip file
6. Read and confirm the EULA
7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install.

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support for support options and to report bugs.

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

Getting Started

When the installation completes, start Vectorworks and select Tools>Workspaces>Beam Draw Standard or Tools>Workspaces>Beam Draw Spotlight. The Beam Draw workspace is similar to the Vectorworks Standard and Spotlight workspaces, but with a Beam Draw palette containing the Beam Draw Tools, and a Beam Draw menu. Use the About Beam Draw… menu item or the About… button in Object Info to enter your Beam Draw registration or demo code.

 Adding to an Existing Workspace

To add Beam Draw to an existing workspace:

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Workspace Editor.
2. In the Menus tab, click the disclosure triangle next to Beam Draw in the list of Menu categories on the left hand side.
3. Drag all the commands to an existing menu on the right or create a new menu.
4. Select the Tools tab.
   
5. Click the disclosure triangle next to Beam Draw in the list of Tools categories on the left hand side.
   
6. Drag the all the Beam Draw Plug-In Objects to an existing palette on the right or create a new palette.
7. If you want to use the Beam Draw tool set icon, you can find it installed in your user workspaces folder.
8. Click OK.

Registration

The first time you use the Beam Draw, you will be asked for a registration number or demo code. You can also access the registration dialog through the “About” button in the Object Info palette or the About Beam Draw… menu item.. The Beam Draw objects will not draw without a valid code.

Overview

Beam Draw allows you to visualize a beam of light in both plan view and 3D, helping you to choose proper instrument type and location. The beam instantly redraws if you change its beam angle, focus position, or instrument position.

The following diagram shows some of the terminology used by Beam Draw:

Beam Draw utilizes Plug-In Objects, meaning it draws beams according to a set of user-definable parameters, including beam angle, position height, and face plane. You will find a full list of parameters described for each object. You can edit an object’s parameters in the Object Info Palette.

As with all Plug-In Objects, the first time you place a beam in a document, Vectorworks will ask you for default parameters. You can set the default object parameters for the document by selecting the object’s tool, then clicking on the parameters button in the mode bar.

The full Beam Draw package includes several plug-in objects and menus. Please visit the Beam Draw Quickguide page for a brief introduction to each Beam Draw component.

Workflow

Here is a sample workflow for using Beam Draw to visualize a system of lights. Please see the Quickguide as well as the detailed descriptions of each component to determine how to best incorporate Beam Draw into your design process.

 Insert in the Drawing

1. Click on the Beam Draw Tool icon .
2. Click on the drawing in the approximate plan location where you would like the light to hang.
3. Drag the beam edge or focus point (indicated by a locus) to the point you would stand when focusing the light. The size and shape of the beam will change accordingly.
4. Alternatively, you can insert the beam at its focus point and drag the boxed control point to a hanging position. Your cursor will change to a double arrow when it is over the control point.
5. You can also use nudge (shift+arrow) or grid nudge (cmd/ctrl+shift+arrow) to fine tune the focus point.

 Adjusting Parameters

Many aspects of the beam are controllable though parameters in the Object Info Palette.

Beam Draw’s parameters are organized into the following sections:

Mode

The Beam object’s mode determines how the object reacts to moves, drags, nudges, and rotations. Fixed moves the entire object, Dynamic lets you change the beam’s focus, and Fixed Focus lets you change the instrument location.

Location

You’ll want to make sure your beam is being calculated from the correct height with the Position Height parameter. Use Distance to Clamp to drop (positive distance) or raise (negative distance) the origin of the beam below the position to its focal point. If you have lighting positions with z height values, press the Pickup Z Height button below the field.

You can also specify either the lighting instrument’s xy coordinates or its distance from the focus point.

Beam Options

You can set the Field and Beam angles. Use a Beam angle of 0 to work only with the field angle. You can also press the Get Light Info Data button to access the beam and field angles and candlepower stored in the Light Info Record of your symbols. The symbols that shipped with Spotlight as well as those commercially available, like Soft Symbols, have photometric data already attached to them. Use the Use Light Info for Selected menu command to apply Light Info data to more than one beam object.

For PAR Beams, you can also set a bottle rotation here.

Focus Area Options

Face Plane sets the height of your instrument’s focus and is the main cut plane for Beam Draw objects. You can also specify an additional cut plane at any height (even negative) and select an option to show the beam at floor level.

Display Options

You have a number of options controlling the graphical information in the Beam Draw object. See the terminology diagrams above and the parameter reference for more details.

Many of the Beam’s components can also show and hide via class controls.

The first option is Show Beam. Deselecting this option will indicate the beam’s pan and channel at the hanging point, and can be a useful feature for creating rough plots.

Shutter Cuts

To visualize shutter cuts, make sure Show Shutter Cuts is checked. You can drag shutters via a control point right in the drawing or enter a depth and rotation in Obj Info.

The default option of Screen Angles allows you to specify shutter racks based on the top / plan angle you want for the cut. Disabling the option shows you the angle of the cut with respect to the actual gate, providing more accurate previzualization of your shutter cuts.

You can also click the Interactive Shutter Adjustment button to launch a dialog that lets you adjust shutters with sliders and shows you real-time adjustments. This option is perfect for visually matching cuts so scenery.

Resolution

Beam Draw 4 optimizes both 2D and 3D geometry, so you can generally leave this setting on High. If you switch to Low, enter a resolution less than the default of 180.

Rendering Options

Select Add Light to include a rendering light that matches the beam’s parameters. The Light is also accessible in the Visualization Palette. The rendering light will be shaped by any shutter cuts, though elliptical beams are rendered as round. Then the Add Light option is enabled, beams render as transparent.

Simple 3D will draw the beam as cut planes and cone edge rays instead of a solid beam.

Computed Info

This section includes calculated information about the beam at its specified focus:

• True Distance (throw length)
• Angle to Face
• Pan
• Tilt
• Maximum width
• Footcandles

Paperwork Info

Attach Channel or Purpose data to the beam. Channels are shown with the beam object, with the text attributes being set by Vectorworks’s Text menu. The Channel and Purpose will transfer to any Lighting Devices create with Beam Draw’s Convert Beam to Instrument command. You can also use Beams with channels to create magic sheet layouts.

Classes

You can assign a class to most of the Beam’s geometry. Select Auto-Class to create and assign classes to each possible component.

Settings

The Settings button raises a dialog where you can set the default class and Move to Layer prefix for all new Beam objects. You can also set this option as default for all new documents.

 Viewing the Beam in 3D

1. Switch to a 3D view. The beam will continue to reshape if moved in 3D.
2. You may want to hold down the shift key while moving the beam in 3D so its focus height does not change.
3. If you have Spotlight Focus Points defined, use the pull-down menu at the top of Object Info to easily refocus your beams in 3D.
4. The Beam’s translucent surface comes from its texture. You can either edit the Light Beam texture or override it using the Floor Oval and Face Oval class controls.

 Reverse and Repeat

You can easily reverse and repeat beams across the x=0 centerline. Shutter cuts and bottle rotations are also reversed.

1. Select the beam objects you want to reverse and repeat. They can be any mix of Beam Draws, Beam Draw Pars, and Beam Draw Section.
2. Select the menu Reverse and Repeat Beams.

You can also use the Mirror Tool to reverse and repeat beams across arbitrary vertical or horizontal planes of reflection.

 Creating a Consistent System of Lights

1. Use Beam Draw or Beam Draw PAR to select the proper position, beam angle, and focus of one light. You may find it useful to have a paper section in front of you, use Beam Draw Sections with a Vectorworks section, or to examine the beam in a 3D side view. Hint: Beam Draw also computes the distance and angle to the face.
2. Now change the Redraw parameter from Dynamic to Fixed.
3. You can also use the menu command Cycle BD Redraw Mode, which can have a keyboard shortcut, to cycle the mode between Fixed, Dynamic, and Fixed Focus.
4. You can now duplicate, duplicate array, or option/alt-drag the beam, and the instrument location will move, keeping the shape of the beam constant.
5. You can still make adjustments to the Beam’s hanging location control point while in fixed mode.

 Channeling Beams

In Detail

 Beam Draw

Overview

Beam Draw allows you to visualize the coverage of a beam of light in plan view. Each beam is a separate Plug-In Object with easily adjustable hanging and focus points. Beam Draw will reshape as you move the focus across the drawing, and it will even show hyperbolic and triangular intersection with the face plane. Beam Draw can also show how the same beam will hit the floor as well as show the beam in 3D views.

Instructions

1. Click on the Beam Draw Tool icon
2. Click on the drawing in the approximate plan location where you would like the light to hang.
3. Drag the beam edge or focus point (indicated by a locus) to the point you would stand when focusing the light. The size and shape of the beam will change accordingly.
4. Alternatively, you can insert the beam at its focus point and drag the boxed control point to a hanging position. Your cursor will change to a double arrow when it is over the control point.
5. You can also use nudge (shift+arrow) to fine tune the focus point.
6. Adjust parameters of the beam in the Object Info palette.
7. If you are viewing shutter cuts, you can adjust the shutters in Object Info as well as by dragging the four control points in the drawing.

See the Workflow for more details.

Parameters

The Beam Draw parameters can be edited in the Object Info Palette. To set parameter defaults, see the Overview.

Parameter	Description
x, y	The coordinates of the focus point.
Z	The height of your floor cut plane. The Face Plane and Additional Cut Plane measure from this height. Your Position Height should not take the z height into account — if you are using the z value to set a deck or trap level, for example, your Position Height should still measure from z = 0, and Beam Draw will do the math.
Redraw	Fixed: The lighting instrument will move as you drag the beam, keeping the shape constant. Fixed mode is useful for duplicating a beam into a system of lights. Dynamic: The lighting instrument remains fixed and the beam reshapes as you move it. Fixed Focus: The focus point remains fixed, and the instrument location moves as you drag, move, or nudge.
Focus Point	Select an existing Spotlight Focus Point, and the beam will refocus to that point. You can also set the focus anywhere, and the field will display, “Custom.”
Location
Position Height	The height of the lighting position. This should be the trim height of the pipe above z = 0.
Pickup Z height	This button will change the position height to the z height of any 3D object below the instrument location. This does not change dynamically and will happen when you press the button.
Distance to Clamp	The distance from the hanging position to the source point in the lighting instrument. The height of the beam is computed as Position Height – Distance to Clamp. Use a negative value to overhang the light. If the light is overhung, Beam Draw objects will show an indicator next to the instrument location, and when converting to Lighting Devices, the 3D component will be overhung.
Instrument X, Y	The coordinates of the lighting instrument.
Instrument Distance X, Y	The x and y distances from the focus point to the lighting instrument.
Beam Options
Field Angle	The field angle of the beam.
Beam Angle	The beam angle of the beam. If you do not want to draw the beam angle, enter a value of 0. If you only want to draw the beam angle, enter it in field angle.
Peak Candela	The peak candela of the beam. This is optional and used for computing foot-candles.
Get Light Info Data	Launches a dialog where you can select beam and field data from the symbols in your document and the symbols in your default file. Beam Draw will display the footcandles each unit type will output at the current throw.
Focus Area Options
Face Plane	The height of the plane on which beams are drawn. Usually 6′-0″ or 5′-9″.
Show Floor	If checked, will draw the beam at both head height and as it falls on the floor.
Additional Cut Plane	Draws a cut plane at any level. Useful for checking obstructions or coverage at unusual heights. The use a negative value to view a plane below the focus point, for example to cut off the audience below the stage level.
Display Options
Show Beam	Show or hide the beam ovals, cone edge lines, and focus vector. If hidden, an arrow at the instrument location will show which direction the beam focuses. Deselecting this option is useful for creating rough plots.
Display Field Angle	Select to show the field angle indicated next to the instrument location.
Show Focus Point	If checked, a locus is drawn at the focus point.
Show Focus Point	If checked, draws a locus where the hot spot on the floor.
Indicate Inst. with	A box or locus at the instrument location. Applies to both 2D and 3D views.
Show Focus Vector	Draws a line from the source to the focus point. Applies to both 2D and 3D views.
Cone Edge Lines	Draws the extents of the beam from origin to focus in Top/Plan view. The cone edge lines adjust to your shutter cuts.
Show Coverage	Shows the full coverage of a beam from one cut plane to another. Showing from Face Plane to Floor Plane, for example, will show you the area of full body coverage. The options are: None Face to Floor Face to Additional Additional to Floor
Shutter Cuts
Show	Select for the ability to specify shutter cuts. If you hide cuts, the shutter parameters will still be retained.
Shutter % Depths	The percentage to push in a shutter. 100% is at the focus point. You can also use control points in the drawing to drag shutter cuts or the sliders in the Interactive Shutter Alignment dialog.
Shutter Angles	The angle of each shutter
Use Screen Angles	The default option of Screen Angles allows you to specify shutter racks based on the top / plan angle you want for the cut. Disabling the option shows you the angle of the cut with respect to the actual gate, providing more accurate previzualization of your shutter cuts.
Interactive Shutter Adjustment	The Interactive Shutter Angles dialog lets you control shutter depths and angles with interactive sliders.
Reset Shutters	Pulls out all the shutters.
Resolution
Resolution	Select “Low” to simplify geometry. Because Beam Draw uses ovals and NURBS curves, you will rarely see a benefit in reducing the resolution.
Factor	Set the resolution for the Low Resolution option. 180 is a fairly full resolution. 4 should be the minimum.
Rendering Options
Add Light	Includes a rendering light that matches the beam’s parameters. The Light is also accessible in the Visualization Palette. The rendering light will be shaped by any shutter cuts, though elliptical beams are rendered as round. Then the Add Light option is enabled, beams render as transparent. The light will only show as a pool of light using Renderworks rendering.
Simple 3D	Simple 3D will draw the beam as cut planes and cone edge rays instead of a solid beam.
Computed Info
True Distance	The actual distance between the instrument and focus point. Useful for finding the light’s intensity at the face. Do not edit this field as it is computed by the object script.
Angle to face	The angle from the face to the light. Straight top light is 90°.
Pan	The degrees from straight up on the page (US, North, etc)
Tilt	The degrees from straight down.
Maximum Width	The maximum width of the beam at head height.
Foot-candles	The computed intensity of the light.
Paperwork
Show Paperwork Info	Shows options to indicate a channel and purpose to keep track of your beams.
Channel	The channel number will show at the focus point if the beam is shown or at the instrument location if it is hidden. The channel can be used to create a Beam Draw Magic sheet object. The channel will also transfer when a beam is converted to a Spotlight lighting device.
Purpose	The purpose will transfer when a beam is converted to a Spotlight lighting device.
Classes
Auto-Class	This option will create sub-classes based on the object’s overall class, and assign those classes to component parts. Beam Draw will only create new classes for component parts that are enabled to draw.
Class Settings	The following parts can be individually classed or be set to use the same class as the overall object: Floor Oval (2D and 3D) Face Oval (2D and 3D) Additional Plane Oval (2D and 3D) Coverage Focus Point (2D and 3D) Focus Vector (2D and 3D) Cone Edge Instrument Location (2D and 3D) Field Angle Text Channel Text
Settings	Set the default base class and layer prefix. You have the option to save defaults for all new documents.
About	See Beam Draw version and license information.

 Beam Draw PAR

Overview

Beam Draw PAR functions just like Beam Draw, only it visualizes elliptical beams. You can set the bottle rotation to any angle.

Instructions

1. Click on the Beam Draw Tool icon
2. Click on the drawing in the approximate plan location where you would like the light to hang.
3. Drag the beam edge or focus point (indicated by a locus) to the point you would stand when focusing the light. The size and shape of the beam will change accordingly.
4. Alternatively, you can insert the beam at its focus point and drag the boxed control point to a hanging position. Your cursor will change to a double arrow when it is over the control point.
5. You can also use nudge (shift+arrow) to fine tune the focus point.
6. Adjust parameters of the beam in the Object Info palette.
7. You can rotate the beam in Object Info or by dragging the control point in the drawing that is near the beam’s focus point.

Parameters

The Beam Draw PAR parameters can be edited in the Object Info Palette. To set parameter defaults, see the Overview.

 Beam Draw Section

Overview

Beam Draw Section allows you to draw a 2D triangle of light showing an instrument’s spread in section. You can select beam and field angles for the beam, visualize shutter cuts. You can display a figure as well as identify an area with minimum coverage width.

In order to keep beams from extending infinitely, the Beam Draw Section has four display modes, selectable in object info:

Instructions

1. Click on the Beam Draw Section Tool icon
2. Click and drag from the gate of your light to your focus point. If you would rather drag in the opposite direction, use the Beam Draw Section from FP Tool.
3. If you don’t have representations of lighting instruments in your section, you can end the line at the hanging position. Next, click the button labeled “Shift by clamp height,” and your beam will compensate.
4. Adjust the section’s options, including Field Angle in Object Info.
5. To visualize shutters, make sure “Draw Shutters” is selected in Object Info. You will see a control point handle towards the ends of the beam section. Drag the point, and the shutter cut will pass through the point. You cannot open the shutters wider than the field angle permits.

Parameters

 Beam Draw Section from FP

Overview

This will insert the Beam Draw Section object, draw from the focus point to the hanging position.

Instructions

1. Click on the Beam Draw Section from FP Tool icon
2. Click and drag from your desired focus point to your hanging position.

The resulting object is identical to that described in Beam Draw Section.

Cycle BD Redraw Mode

Overview

Use this command to cycle through the three Redraw modes of selected Beam Draw and Beam Draw Par Objects. The modes will cycle between: Fixed, Dynamic, and Fixed Focus.

Section Beam to Plan

Overview

This command lets you take a selected Beam Draw Section and insert a Beam Draw object with the same parameters, focus, and shutter cuts.

Instructions

1. Select a single Beam Draw Section object.
2. Choose the Section Beam to Plan command.
3. Click in the drawing to place the Beam Draw object. The preview shape will give you a rough idea of the Beam’s size and show its focus vector. The following options are available in the mode bar:

Instrument mode Click in the drawing to insert the Beam object at the hanging point

Focus mode Click in the drawing to insert the Beam object at the focus point

Pan Enter the Beam’s pan in the resulting dialog. The pan angle is essentially the plan angle of the cut plane for which you drew your section. The direction of the section’s figure corresponds to the initial pan of the beam.

 Use Light Info for Selected

Overview

This command will utilize data attached to your symbols to provide you with a library of beam angles, field angles, and peak candela to apply to your Beam Draw Objects. The data is extracted from the Light Info Record in your symbol definitions. Thee symbols that shipped with Spotlight as well as those commercially available, like Soft Symbols, have photometric data already attached to them.

Data will be shown for symbol definitions in your current document as well as those in your Spotlight Default content folder.

Instructions

1. Select any mix of Beam Draw, PAR, and Section objects.
2. Choose the Use Light Info for Selected menu command.
3. You will see any photometric data attached to the symbol resources in your drawing as well as those in the Spotlight Default content.
4. Beam draw computes the brightness, in footcandles, for the first selected Beam Draw object in your drawing.
5. Select a symbol whose data you want to use.
6. If you only want to use the field angle, click Ignore Beam Ang, otherwise, click OK.
7. Your beams will now use the data you selected.

Update Beams from Focus Pt

Overview

While you can set a beam to focus to a Spotlight Focus Point, adjusting focus points won’t automatically adjust beams. If you change the position or height of a focus point, this command causes all the beams assigned to focus points to reset.

 Reverse and Repeat Beams

Overview

You can easily reverse and repeat beams across the x=0 centerline. Shutter cuts and bottle rotations are also reversed. The command will work on Beam Draw, Beam Draw PAR, and Beam Draw Section objects. You can also use the Mirror Tool to reflect beams across any horizontal or vertical line of reflection.

Instructions

1. Select the beam objects you want to reverse and repeat. They can be any mix of Beam Draws, Beam Draw Pars, and Beam Draw Sections.
2. Select the menu Reverse and Repeat Beams.

 Channel Beams

Overview

If you’re working with a single system of beams, you may find it useful to assign channel numbers. The channels can be shown on the drawing, transfer to Spotlight Lighting Devices when using the Convert Beams command, and be used for creating magic sheets.

Instructions

1. If no beams are selected, the command channels all beams on the current layer. Otherwise the command works with selected beams of any type.
2. Choose the menu Channel Beams.
3. You will see a dialog allowing you to select the first channel and the direction channels will number.
4. The channel displays at the focus point. You can change the font and size using the Text menu.
5. Select a beam, and at the bottom make sure Show Paperwork Info is checked. You can manually set channel and purpose here. Those fields can automatically transfer when a beam is turned into a Spotlight Lighting Device.

Uncheck the Show Beam parameter and select Display Field Angle. The beam object reduces to the focus point (if it’s shown) and the instrument location, with the channel, field angle, and direction displayed. This is useful for creating a rough plot from your beams.

 Convert Beams to Instrument

Overview

This command allows you to insert Spotlight Lighting Devices or instrument symbols for each of the beams. You can easily match beam angles to unit types.

Instructions

1. Select the Beam Draw and or Beam Draw PAR objects you wish to convert. If no beams are selected, the command converts all beams on the current layer.
2. A dialog will ask you to match each field angle with a symbol in your document. There is also a set of symbols whose field angles are close to your selected beam.
3. Choose if you want the symbols aligned to the drawing grid and/or rotated to the neatest 90°.
4. The command will transfer any channel and purpose data entered into your Beam Draw objects to your Lighting Devices, along with focus, hanging height, shutters, bottle rotation, and all the default values from the symbol’s Light Info Record.
5. You have the option to link the Lighting Device to your Beam Draw object. Any changes to the Beam Draw object will push to the Lighting Device. Beam Draw will also pull changes in position from the Lighting Device. Note this is not automatic, ant you will need to manually refresh the Beam Draw Object. Also note that changing beam and field angles will not automatically change the instrument type.
6. You have the option to create a Spotlight Focus Point at the focus point for each beam. The Convert command will first look for existing focus points at the given location and position, and if found assign the Lighting Device and Beam Draw Object to those points.
7. You can create Lighting Devices on any layer. This can be useful if you have stored each system of beams in its own layer and are in the process of converting your rough plot to Lighting Devices.
8. You have the option to delete Beam Draw objects after the command converts them, but most choose to keep a record of the beam’s focus for future reference.

 Move Beams to Layer

Overview

Once you have created a system of beams, you can easily move them to a new layer and begin a new system.

Instructions

1. Select the beams you wish to file on another layer. If no beams are selected, the command converts all beams on the current layer.
2. Select the Move Beams to Layer menu command.
3. You will be prompted for a suffix name for the layer, usually the system name. The layer name can be new or existing.
4. You can choose whether to hide or show the layer and to deselect the Show Beam parameter. If you are building a rough plot, you may wish to make the new layer visible and to have the command turn off Show Beam. If you have already converted your beams to Lighting Devices, you may wish to hide the new layer.
5. The beams are moved.

 Select Beams

Overview

Use this command to select all Beam Draw objects.

 Select PAR Beams

Overview

Use this command to select all Beam Draw PAR objects.

 Select Section Beams

Overview

Use this command to select all Beam Draw Section objects.

 Select All Beams

Overview

Use this command to select all Beam Draw object types, including PAR and Section.

 About Beam Draw…

Overview

Provides information about the current Beam Draw version and registration. You can enter a purchased registration number or a requested demo code via this dialog. There are also a number of support links in the dialog.

 Beam Draw FAQ

Overview

Go to the FAQ on the web.

 Beam Draw Help

Overview

Open this help doc.

 Submit a Beam Draw Bug

Overview

Submit a bug report on the web.

 Changing Default Parameters

To change the default parameters for all new documents, choose Tools>Scripts>VectorScript Plug-in Editor…, select Beam Draw, click the Parameters button, and edit the default values. Please note, if you install an update the object, you will have to redo these custom settings.

The post Beam Draw 4 Users Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.

version 1.0.0

Users Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to an Existing Workspace | Registration | Instructions

Introduction

Requirements

Vectorworks 2015 or higher

Installation

For installation to Vectorworks 2015 or 2016:

1. The installer package must remain a zip file. If your system automatically unzips archives, right-click on the download link and select “Save Link As” to prevent your browser from auto-expanding the download.
2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager
3. Select the Third-party plug-ins page
4. Click the Install… button
5. Navigate to and select the saved installer zip file
6. Read and confirm the EULA
7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install.

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support for support options and to report bugs.

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

Getting Started

Adding to an Existing Workspace

To add the Select Similar Instrument tool to an existing workspace:

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Edit Current Workspace.
2. Select the Tools tab. 
3. Click the disclosure triangle next to JBLD in the list of Tools categories on the left hand side.
   
4. Drag the all the Select Similar Instrument tool to an existing palette on the right or create a new palette.
5. Click OK.

Registration

The first time you use the tool, a dialog will ask you for a registration number or demo code. You can use the buttons in the dialog to request a demo or make a purchase.  You can also access the registration dialog through the settings button in the tool’s mode bar.

Instructions

This tool works similarly to Vectorworks’ Select Similar Tool.  When you select a Lighting Device with the Savvy Select Similar Instrument Tool, it will select other selectable Lighting Devices using the matching criteria you set in the Mode Bar.

As you move the cursor over drawing objects, the tool will highlight selectable Lighting Devices.  When you click on a Lighting Device, the tool will use this object’s data to select similar lighting instruments.

Use the Shift key to add units to or remove units from the current selection.  

Click on a blank area of the drawing or a non-Lighting Device object to deselect all objects.  

Double-click the tool to select all lighting devices. 

Selection Options

The toggle on the left goverens whether the tool will select all matching lighting instruments or just units in the current selection.

Match Fields

Select one or two Lighting Device data fields to match.  For example, you can select Position and Instrument Type to select all the units matching the position and type of the unit you click with the tool.  The right-hand menu can be set to (None) to only match one field.  If you have managed Lighting Device fields in Spotlight Settings, the tool will only show the visible fields, including any custom or renamed fields.

The menu also has an option to match Plan Rotation.  This can be useful for selecting all the units that need a certain Label Legend.

About

Click to check your registration information and seek technical support.

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version 1.0.0

Users Guide

Created by Joshua Benghiat

Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design

Introduction

Requirements | Installation | Support

Getting Started

Adding to your Workspace | Registration |  Overview

In Detail

Savvy Sequencer dialog

Introduction

Requirements

Vectorworks 2012 or higher

Installation

If you haven’t already, download the Savvy Sequencer Installer from the JBLD downloads page . There are links to download for 2012/2013 or 2014/2015.

For installation to Vectorworks 2012 or 2013:

Make sure Vectorworks is not running.  Run the Savvy Sequencer Installer.  Select your version of Vectorworks. The installer will install a folder called “-JBLD Savvy Sequencer” in your user Plug-Ins folder, containing the Savvy Sequencer menu command.

The Windows installer allows you to select a custom location for your Plug-Ins folder.  Mac users with a custom user data location or Windows users having trouble with the installer can download the “Raw installer” and manually drag the “-JBLD Position Pipes” folder to Plug-Ins.  For more information, see this FAQ .

For installation to Vectorworks 2014 or 2015:

1. The installer package must remain a zip file.  If your system automatically unzips archives, right-click on the download link and select “Save Link As” to prevent your browser from auto-expanding the download.
2. In Vectorworks, select Tools > Plug-ins > Plug-in Manager
3. Select the Third-party plug-ins page
4. Click the Install… button
5. Navigate to and select the saved installer zip file
6. Read and confirm the EULA
7. Vectorworks should notify you that installation is complete and to restart Vectorworks

If you experience trouble with the install script, please see the following FAQ on where plug-ins install .

Support

Please visit http://BenghiatLighting.com/software/support  for support options and to report bugs.  

You may also email software(at)BenghiatLighting.com.

  Getting Started

To use the Savvy Sequencer command, you must add it to your Workspace.

  Adding to your Workspace

To add Savvy Sequencer to an existing workspace:  

1. Select Tools>Workspaces>Workspace Editor or Edit Current Workspace… .
2. In the Menus  tab, click the disclosure triangle next to  JBLD in the list of Menu categories on the left hand side.
3. Drag Savvy Sequencer to an existing menu on the right, for example, Tools.
4. Click OK .

Registration

The first time you use Savvy Position Sequencer, you will be asked for a registration number or demo code.  You can also access the registration dialog through the ” About ” button at the bottom-left of the Sequencer Dialog.

Overview

The Savvy Sequencer will add sequential text labels or data entries to selected objects, based on their screen arrangement. The Sequencer will work with existing text objects or create new ones, look inside groups for text, and apply date to either attached record or plug-in parameter fields. Sequences can be numeric or alphabetic, start at any point, have any increment, and include leading or trailing text. The sort order can be as a linear or rectangular array or traverse objects in a circle.

For a list of key features and screenshots, visit the  Savvy Sequencer product page .

  In Detail

Dialog Options

The post Savvy Sequencer User Guide first appeared on TEST SITE.