Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Vectorworks to Lightwright
Exporting your Vectorworks files to Lightwright can enhance your workflow, especially for theatrical productions where light planning and documentation are crucial. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to achieve this integration effectively.
1. Prepare Your Vectorworks File
Before beginning the export process, ensure that your Vectorworks drawing includes all the relevant lighting information. Make use of classes and layers effectively to organize your lights and associated elements, so they can be easily recognized by Lightwright.
2. Set the Export Options
Access the export settings by selecting the appropriate export command from the File menu. This is typically found under File > Export > Export to Lightwright. This opens the Lightwright export dialog, which will allow you to customize how the data is transferred.
3. Specify Lightwright Settings
In the Lightwright export dialog, make sure to define what you need to export. You might want to choose which classes or layers to include in the export based on your project requirements. Additionally, check the box for transformations if your project uses different coordinate systems.
4. Choose a File Format
Lightwright accepts various file formats from Vectorworks. Select the format that matches your Lightwright version (for example, CSV or specific Lightwright files). Ensure compatibility to prevent any data loss or misformatting.
5. Name and Choose Destination
After setting your parameters, you will need to name your exported file and choose a destination on your machine. This is where the exported file will be saved, so select a location that is easy for you to retrieve later.
6. Execute the Export
Once you’ve confirmed all settings and file information, click the export button to commence the transfer of data from Vectorworks to Lightwright. Pay attention to any messages or alerts that may appear during this process, as they can inform you of potential issues.
7. Open the Exported File in Lightwright
Now, launch Lightwright and navigate to the location you saved the export file. Open the file to ensure that all lighting elements and data have transferred accurately. It is advisable to check for missing information or discrepancies right after the import.
8. Finalize Lightwright Setup
Upon opening the file in Lightwright, review and make any necessary adjustments to the lighting list or categories as needed. This final step allows you to perfect your lighting setup and ensure everything is in order for your production.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Lightwright version is compatible with Vectorworks exports?
Ensure that you are using a compatible version of Lightwright that corresponds with the export options available in your version of Vectorworks. Typically, recent versions support seamless interoperability, but earlier versions may have limitations.
2. Can I export other data besides lighting from Vectorworks to Lightwright?
Primarily, the export feature focuses on lighting elements. However, you may include other related data under specific settings in Vectorworks. Ensure that relevant classes and layers are appropriately designated before exporting.
3. What should I do if data is missing after export?
If you notice missing data after opening the exported file in Lightwright, revisit your export settings in Vectorworks. Confirm that all necessary classes and layers were included and properly configured prior to exporting. If needed, re-export with the corrected settings.
