During STEP import:
● Points are imported as a group of 3D loci.
● NURBS curves are imported as a group of NURBS curves.
● NURBS surfaces are imported as a group of NURBS surfaces.
● Closed solids are imported as a group of imported solids.
● Open solids are imported as a group of NURBS surfaces.
● If there is only one element in the STEP .stp file, it is imported as a single element rather than grouped.
Imported solids cannot be ungrouped or edited through the Edit Group command; they can be used in solid operations.
To import a STEP file:
Select Files > Import > Import STEP (3D only).
The Import STEP File dialog box opens.
Select the file to import, and click Open.
Alternatively, click the file to import and drag it into an open Vectorworks file.
The Export STEP (3D only) command exports 3D curves, surfaces, and solids from a Vectorworks files into STEP format. Closed solids export as solids, while open solids export as a collection of surfaces.
Objects that are exported to an .stp file include:
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● 3D loci |
● 3D polygons |
● Architectural objects (wall/slab/column/stair) |
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● Chamfers |
● NURBS curves and surfaces |
● CSG solids (add/subtract/intersect/section) |
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● Fillets |
● Groups |
● Extrudes and multiple extrudes |
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● Parametric objects |
● Shells |
● Solids (sphere/cone/hemisphere) |
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● Sweeps |
● 3D Symbols |
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To export a STEP file:
Select File > Export > Export STEP (3D only).
The Export Options dialog box opens.
Select Export Solid as Trimmed Surfaces to export a solid as several different “bodies” (for example, a cube exports as six bodies); otherwise, a solid is exported as a single body.
Click OK.
Specify the file name and destination, and then click Save.