Workflow: Visualizer data exchange
Use .gdtf and .mvr files to seamlessly transfer data between Vectorworks and the consoles and visualizers used for previz. GDTF (General Device Type Format) specifies lighting device data, including manufacturer details, device geometry, and the DMX footprint.
GDTF files can be created and modified with the online Fixture Builder, and they can be saved and downloaded from the GDTF Share. (See the GDTF Help for more information about these platforms.)
You can import .gdtf files with the Import GDTF command or as part of an MVR (My Virtual Rig) import. Based on the glTF/glb format, MVR files transfer the complete 3D model, including all geometry and parameter data, between Vectorworks and other previz applications. The .mvr file contains all the .gdtf files for lighting devices in the model.
When a .gdtf file is imported in Vectorworks, it becomes a resource. GDTF resources are saved with the file, so they can be imported from other .vwx files as well. Each GDTF resource displays as a thumbnail from the .gdtf file.
To prepare for previz:
Model the scene in Vectorworks using your normal workflow.
Download .gdtf files for the lighting devices from the GDTF Share, or use the GDTF Fixture Builder to create your own.
Use the Import GDTF command to import the desired .gdtf files into Vectorworks. The files display as resources in the Resource Manager.
You can also import GDTF resources from other .vwx documents.
For each lighting device, specify a GDTF Fixture Mode in the Lighting device properties. Select Use GDTF Geometry to display the GDTF device geometry and verify its orientation prior to export. If exporting to the Vision program, specify a Fixture Mode for devices that should use Vision data.
When importing a .mvr file in Vision, you can use GDTF devices, Vision devices, or a mix of both. For more information about the required settings, see Selecting a fixture mode.
To edit a .gdtf file directly in Vectorworks, click Edit GDTF Data on the Object Info palette of a selected lighting device. Edit the GDTF device in the Fixture Builder, and click Save to update all instances of the device in the drawing.
Ensure that patching is correct with the DMX Patch command.
Select Export MVR, and choose whether to export lighting device parameter data, scene geometry, or both.
A .mvr file is created containing the relevant information from the Vectorworks file.
Launch the lighting console software and visualizer, and import the .mvr file.
If using separate lighting consoles and visualizers, you will need to use both to import and export the .mvr file.
All of the fixture information and geometry that was specified for export from Vectorworks is shown in the visualizer. Program the show as desired.
Modify the lighting devices, including the DMX address, unit number, and location.
Modify the scene geometry by inserting and moving objects.
When the edits are complete, export the .mvr file.
From Vectorworks, select Import MVR, and choose whether to import the lighting device parameter data, scene geometry, or both.
The scene updates with the changes made in the visualizer, while preserving the original Vectorworks geometry.
