How to Open Vectorworks File in Rhino?

Understanding Vectorworks Files

Vectorworks files, commonly saved with the .VWX extension, are design documents used in architectural and landscape workflows. These files are generated by the Vectorworks software, which is renowned for its versatility in handling both 2D and 3D design projects. If you wish to utilize a Vectorworks file in Rhino, it’s crucial to recognize that direct opening of .VWX files is not supported. Instead, a conversion approach must be taken.

Exporting Vectorworks to a Compatible Format

To successfully use a Vectorworks file in Rhino, the first step is exporting the .VWX file into a format that Rhino can read. Native file formats supported by Rhino include DWG, DXF, and 3DM among others. Here’s how to perform the conversion:

1. Open Vectorworks: Start Vectorworks and load the desired .VWX file you wish to convert.
2. Export the File:
   • Navigate to the File menu.
   • Choose the Export option.
   • Select Export as DXF/DWG. This option allows you to convert the file into a format that is compatible with Rhino.
3. Configure Export Settings:
   • A dialog box will appear where you can adjust export settings such as scale and layer options.
   • Click OK or Export to complete the saving process. Choose a suitable location to save the new file.

Importing the Converted File into Rhino

Once the file is converted into a compatible format, you can import it into Rhino. Follow these steps:

1. Launch Rhino: Open your Rhino application on your computer.
2. Select File Menu:
   • Click on the File menu located at the top of the interface.
   • Choose either Import or Insert to bring up the file selection dialog.
3. Choose the File:
   • Navigate to the location where you saved the exported DXF/DWG file from Vectorworks.
   • Click on the file to select it.
4. Configure Import Settings:
   • After selecting, Rhino may present options to configure how the import will be handled. Adjust these settings as necessary.
5. Finalize Import: Press Open to import the file into Rhino. Your Vectorworks design is now available within the Rhino environment.

Working with the Imported Geometry

Once the file is successfully imported, it’s important to review the geometry for accuracy and completeness. Since the transfer was from one software to another:

1. Check Scale and Units: Ensure the dimensions are correct and match your original design specifications.
2. Inspect Layers: Examine the imported layers and modify them as necessary to organize your project effectively.
3. Adjust Geometry: Based on how the shapes and lines converted, you may need to edit or refine certain aspects for improved functionality within Rhino.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I import other file types from Vectorworks into Rhino?
Rhino primarily supports the import of DXF and DWG files. Therefore, consider exporting your Vectorworks designs to one of these formats to ensure compatibility.

2. Is there a way to directly open a Vectorworks file in Rhino?
No, Rhino does not support the direct opening of .VWX files. You must first export your designs from Vectorworks into a compatible format.

3. Are there any limitations to be aware of when exporting from Vectorworks?
When exporting, it is essential to be mindful of the scale, dimensions, and layer organization. Some complex features or settings in Vectorworks may not translate perfectly into Rhino, necessitating manual adjustments after import.