|
As we kick off the New Year with a new version of software, I'm happy to report VectorWorks 12 also closed the previous year with a bang. December was our best single month of sales in the U.S. in the history of the company. And this was due, in no small part, to all of you, our dedicated users. 2005 also marked the fifth year in a row of record sales for VectorWorks around the world. For that I'd like to thank all of you for helping to make VectorWorks the success it is.
We're always excited to bring each new version to market—the culmination of months of valuable input from you and development efforts. But we're truly ecstatic when you try out the latest version for yourself firsthand and share our excitement.
We'll be demonstrating version 12 at Macworld in San Francisco this week, so be sure to stop by our booth #2233 on the show floor. If you haven't seen or tried out version 12 yet, this is a great opportunity to take a look with a few of our seasoned software engineers in attendance to answer all your questions. Find out more details on our News & Events web page.
Speaking of architects, I'd like to end on a congratulatory note. I'd like to extend our congratulations to LineSync Architecture for winning an honorable mention in the aiaVT Excellence in Architecture Design Awards. You may read more about the winning entry below.
|
|
Sincerely,
Sean Flaherty
CEO, Nemetschek North America
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
SPaN – Stonely Pelsinski Architects Neukomm
New York, New York
|
VectorWorks Architect helps New York City firm reinvent the standard model for videoconferencing. |
The existing model for video conferencing does not work effectively. Studies show that up to 90% of communication in a videoconferencing can be achieved in an audio conference. This is because existing models of videoconferencing do not take into account the interpersonal dynamics that spontaneously occur in a face-to-face conference. The low-resolution, wide-angle view off-the-shelf videoconferencing systems provide an attempt to solve a spatial problem with technology. However, they tend to fall short of capturing subtle verbal and nonverbal communication cues. Clues such as nuances of expression and shifts of attention between various speakers are almost imperceptible and are, consequently, lost in a traditional videoconferencing environment.
New York City firm SPaN – Stonely Pelsinski architects Neukomm has devised a way to bring them back—with the help of VectorWorks Architect.
Collaborating with McKesson Corporation and Keyspan Energy, Panasonic and Scharff-Weisberg Systems Integration, Inc., SPaN has developed a revolutionary model for advanced teleconferencing facilities nationwide.
Getting the whole picture
According to SPaN partner Peter Pelsinski, the firm's design reintegrates the spatial characteristics taken for granted in a face-to-face conference into the videoconference through a radical rethinking of the space of the room itself and through additional layers of functionality.
"Given the complex interactions of space, lighting, cameras and movement, VectorWorks allowed us to test our design both as a simulation of the room itself and as a simulation of how the various cameras and projectors would interact with the participants in the space," explains Pelsinski. "The digital version of the room in VectorWorks allowed us to quickly generate variations to test and refine the relationships within the space."
An "isolated viewing screen" visually displays the flow of action within conference room spaces. As a person speaks, a microphone activates a camera, which captures a close-up view of the person speaking and projects that real-time image to the isolated viewing screen in both rooms. Much as multiple cameras are used to capture live sporting events or courtroom broadcasts, the isolated view screen renders the "event" of a videoconference as a series of jump cuts, enabling conference participants to easily track the dialogue and activities of a conference as they unfold.
Up close and personal
The creation of this augmented view requires a rethinking of the traditional conference table configuration. The table is "split" in two, allowing for the isolated viewing screen to be centrally located in the sight line between participants. All conference participants, real or video, face each other across the table just as they would in a traditional conference.
The tables are fabricated of cast resin and provide continuous data cable management, with the table itself acting as a plenum for existing and future technologies. The table incorporates digital connectivity, as well as a lighting system to provide "fill" light on participant's faces during a videoconference. Microphones for each participant are embedded in the table surface as well.
Mounted in the center of the room, the isolated screen uses an XGA projector and a rear projection screen viewable from both sides. Six microphone-activated cameras in each space feed the screen with close-up information of conference participants.
A large wide-view context screen displays incoming and outgoing video streams with overall views of the space, establishing context for participants in each room.
Cameras are hidden in a "perch" mounted below the isolating screen. The cameras are obscured, reducing the perception of their "invasive" presence. The room's walls are constructed of a dry-erase surface. The information written on the wall surface can be photographed and reprojected into another room in the same location.
VectorWorks meets a multitude of needs
We appreciate well-made things, and VectorWorks Architect is a more elegant piece of software to work with, in many respects, than other CAD packages. As designers, we appreciate the simplicity of the VectorWorks user interface. We also appreciate VectorWorks' ‘all-in-one' ability to serve as our primary design tool—doing 3D modeling, rendering, etc.—and as our primary production tool—for design development drawings, CDs, and so on, eliminating the need to go to another program."
He continues, "VectorWorks Architect plays well with other CAD software. We are able to communicate seamlessly with our AutoCAD consultants.
"It is almost enough that we still enjoy making beautiful drawings," Pelsinski concludes. "Despite its sophistication, VectorWorks Architect still lets us do that."
|
|
|
How do I add sidelights to doors in VectorWorks 12? |
In the Door Preferences dialog, select the "Parts" tab. Then from the "Parts" pull-down menu select "Lights". (See Image 1-1) Here, you can add left and right sidelights. You will also find new controls that allow you to add Vertical and Horizontal Mutins as well as define the Mutins' Bar Width.
If you have an old drawing and need to convert old "door with sidelight" objects into version 12 "door" objects, use the "Update Plug-in Objects" command on the "Utility" submenu of the "Tools" menu.
(See Image 1-2) |
|
Is there a formula that I can insert into my Window Schedule that will automatically record the window's elevation as noted in the Windows Preference dialog? |
The formula is =(Window.Elevation). Create a new column in your Window Schedule and title it "Elevation". (See Image 2-1) Next from the Worksheet pull-down menu select Database Headers. (See Image 2-2) This will open all the Database Header rows in the Window Schedule worksheet. With the Database Header rows open on the worksheet, select cell under the cell titled "Elevation" and past in the formula bar, =(Window.Elevation). Then check the green check box. (See Image 2-3) This will automatically add the each window's elevation to your window schedule. Lastly, from the Worksheet menu, uncheck Database Header to hide the database row. Then reformat the column appropriately. (See Image 2-4)
|
|
|
VectorWorks Plays Key Role in Designing Swiss ‘Inventioneering Architecture' Exhibit to Open at Boston's Logan Airport
|
The caad.designtoproduction research group at The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) used VectorScript®, VectorWorks' powerful built-in scripting language that automates drafting and modeling tasks, to help Instant Architects from Zurich design and produce the stage for the traveling exhibit Inventioneering Architecture. The exhibit will open January 20, 2006, at Boston's Logan Airport.
The interactive exhibit's stage is a platform that resembles an abstract cross-section of the Swiss Alps. It was designed to allow visitors to stroll the platform while viewing architectural models and visuals on overhead screens and display panels.
To develop this platform, a NURBS surface was translated into the geometry for 1,000 individually shaped rafters, which formed a doubly curved surface of 1,300 square feet, measuring 130 feet long by ten feet wide with varying heights up to five feet.
"VectorScript allows for a tight integration of programming, manual drawing and editing, which is especially important in complex projects such as this," says Christoph Schindler, architect and co-founder of caad.designtoproduction. "And due to these capabilities we were able to generate the steering code for the CNC-router that produced the rafters directly within the CAD system, effectively closing the gap between design and production."
Read more about this project and caad.designtoproduction's other innovative work with world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind in "VectorWorks Brings Daniel Libeskind's Futuropolis to Life".
|
Free Viewer for VectorWorks 12 Now Available
|
A free VectorWorks Viewer application updated for VectorWorks 12 is now available for download. The Viewer enables those who do not own the program to view and print projects created in VectorWorks Fundamentals, VectorWorks Architect, VectorWorks Landmark, VectorWorks Spotlight, VectorWorks Machine Design, and VectorWorks Designer.
"The Viewer for VectorWorks 12 enables collaboration between designers and clients during the creative process, as well as the ability to print projects created using VectorWorks," said Paul Pharr, chief technology officer with Nemetschek North America. "We're pleased to be able to offer our users technology that allows them to perform their jobs more efficiently."
The Viewer lets an individual open a VectorWorks file and make use of the viewing tools and commands, such as the Pan and Zoom tools. As the Viewer can be used by anyone who does not own VectorWorks, this not only benefits clients, but it also allows service bureaus to print VectorWorks files for their customers.
Download Viewer. |
VectorWorks 12 to Support Apple's Intel Macintosh Computers
|
The VectorWorks 12 line of software products will support Apple® Intel® Macintosh® computers. Existing VectorWorks 12 users will receive this new support without additional upgrade fees.
"Nemetschek North America has been working closely with Apple and our other technology partners to create a native Intel version of VectorWorks for Mac OS X," states Paul Pharr, Nemetschek North America's chief technology officer. "Apple's Intel plans open up new possibilities for fast and affordable hardware to run their industry-leading operating system, so we understand the keen interest in the Mac community regarding Intel Macs. As the makers of the best-selling CAD program for the Mac, we want to assure our many users we are committed to providing an Intel-native VectorWorks 12 application for Mac OS X."
|
VectorWorks User Wins Honorable Mention in AIA Vermont 2005 Excellence in Architecture Design Awards
|
The Vermont Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (aiaVT) recently awarded an honorable mention award to LineSync Architecture, of Wilmington, Vermont, for the R.G Niederhoffer Capital Management, Inc., project in New York City.
The aiaVT jury "liked the emphasis on the ceilings as they reinforced the space and the fluidity of the plan. The circulation did have a path feel in a unique way – there was an appreciation of the skill in making both path and place in a way that you don't often see when you have such a formal system of proportioning."
"Our staff really appreciates the superior customer-driven feature sets that VectorWorks consistently implements in its new releases," says the project's architect, Joseph Cincotta, AIA, NCARB, DAD, with LineSync. "VectorWorks is truly is an extraordinary product that has assisted us in creating our one-of-a-kind designs. Thanks for giving our small Vermont firm the tools to compete successfully in New York City."
For more information about the project, visit LineSync's Corporate Gallery web page.
|
Employment Opportunity at Nemetschek: Project Architect
|
Are you looking for a career change? Do you know anyone who is? Nemetschek North America is looking to hire a project architect.
The project architect will work with the vice president of Integrated Products and the marketing department to test and evaluate features and process in the VectorWorks Design Series products. This individual will create complete architectural projects in VectorWorks Architect and related products to evaluate features, validate processes and establish best practices. On occasion, this individual will also make product demonstrations and presentations to groups of AEC users.
Sound interesting? Visit the Community Job Board page of Nemetschek North America's website to read the full Project Architect job description, then email a cover letter and your resume to .
|
|
|
|
TRADE SHOW DATES |
EVENT |
LOCATION |
Jan 10 - Jan 13 |
Macworld |
San Francisco, CA (Booth #2233) |
Jan 31 - Feb 02 |
New England Grows |
Boston, MA (Booth #3014) |
Mar 02 - Mar 04 |
Southeastern Theatre Conference |
Orlando, FL |
Mar 23 - Mar 24 |
ITEA Annual Conference |
Baltimore, MD (Booth #510) |
Mar 23 - Mar 26 |
Labash 2006 |
College Park, MD |
Mar 24 - Mar 25 |
JLC Live New England |
Providence, RI |
Mar 30 - Apr 01 |
USITT Stage Expo |
Louisville, KY (Booth #275) |
|
SPECIAL EVENT DATES |
EVENT |
LOCATION |
|
Jan 31 |
Trends in Landscape Architectural Design Software |
Cambridge, Massachusetts |
|
TRAINING DATES |
LOCATION |
CLASS |
|
Jan 10 - 12 |
Columbia, MD |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• VectorWorks Fundamentals |
|
Jan 23 - Jan 25 |
San Francisco, CA |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• VectorWorks Fundamentals |
|
Jan 25 - Jan 27 |
Miami, FL |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• VectorWorks Fundamentals |
|
Feb 02 - Feb 03 |
New York, NY |
• 3D Modeling and Rendering |
|
Feb 06 - Feb 08 |
Boston, MA |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• VectorWorks Fundamentals |
|
Feb 15 - Feb 17 |
Columbia, MD |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• Landmark Fundamentals |
|
Feb 16 - Feb 17 |
Los Angeles, CA |
• 3D Modeling and Rendering |
|
Feb 22 - Feb 24 |
New York, NY |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• VectorWorks Fundamentals |
|
Mar 08 - Mar 10 |
Columbia, MD |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• Architect Fundamentals |
|
Mar 22 - Mar 24 |
Denver, CO |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• Architect Fundamentals |
|
Apr 03 - Apr 05 |
New York, NY |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• Architect Fundamentals |
|
Apr 06 - Apr 07 |
Columbia, MD |
• 3D Modeling and Rendering |
|
Apr 17 - Apr 19 |
San Francisco, CA |
• Intro to VectorWorks
• Architect Fundamentals |
|
USER GROUP MEETINGS |
GROUP |
LOCATION |
Jan 10 |
Minnesota User Group |
The Offices of Charles Radloff
Bloomington, Minnesota |
Jan 11 |
Northern California User Group
|
AIA San Francisco,
Hallidie Building
San Francisco, California |
Jan 11 |
Eastern Pennsylvania User Group
|
The Offices of Steven L. Glickman
Easton, Pennsylvania |
Jan 21 |
New Mexico User Group |
The Offices of Patrick Higgins
Santa Fe, New Mexico |
Feb 1 |
Bellingham, Washington User Group |
"Barnacles" Alaska Ferry terminal
Bellingham, Washington
|
Feb 7 |
New York City User Group |
IF Architect
New York, New York
|
Feb 8 |
San Antonio User Group |
Seidel + Associates, Inc
San Antonio, Texas
|
Feb 9 |
Austin User Group |
Dynamic Reprographics
Austin, Texas
|
|
|
AIA Accreditation
NNA is pleased to offer AIA Continuing Education credit for our
seminars. The VectorWorks and VectorWorks ARCHITECT classes are AIA CES certified, so attendees can earn up to 24 CES learning units. For additional information, contact training@nemetschek.net.
|
|
