EventDesign1

The basic event design suite available in Vectorworks Spotlight contains automated tools to facilitate setting up a complete room layout for an event such as a banquet, presentation, or training session. Automatically create the room for the event, including the slab, walls, stage, steps, lectern, video screens, and seating. View the room setup in a rendered or plan view, and obtain a report on the total number of tables and chairs required for the event.

Vectorworks Spotlight also offers greatly expanded Event Design capabilities with all the features needed for concert and theatrical venues.

The event design suite uses objects to quickly and automatically create the room plan with only a few parameter settings required. However, due to the powerful nature of these objects, they can be specifically tailored through the Object Info palette to customize their appearance if needed.

Creating the Room for a Basic Event

The first step of basic event design is usually creating the event room. Based on a simple 2D shape, the room and floor slab are created automatically according to specified parameters.

Command	Path
Create Room	Event Design

1 Create a closed 2D object (such as a rectangle, polyline, or polygon) to represent the room. The dimensions of the object should match the interior dimensions of the room to be created.

The Create Room dialog box opens. Specify the properties and attributes of the walls and the floor slab.

Parameter	Description
Walls	Specify the wall attributes
Height	Sets the wall height of the room’s walls
Class	To control appearance, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Leave the walls in the None class to set the attributes from the dialog box.
Thickness	Sets the wall thickness
Fill Hatch	Sets a fill hatch for the walls from the file’s resources
Fill Color	Sets the fill color for the walls
Pen Color	Sets the pen color for the walls
Texture	Opens the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it
Floor	Specify the floor slab attributes
Class	To control appearance, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Leave the floor in the None class to set the remaining attributes from the dialog box.
Fill Color	Sets the fill color for the floor
Pen Color	Sets the pen color for the floor
Texture	Opens the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it

When Moving Connected Walls with the Connected Walls mode of the Selection tool enabled, the adjoining walls and the slab change automatically to maintain the connection.

Creating a Basic Stage

Command	Path
Create Stage	Event Design

Many event rooms contain a stage for viewing presentations. Based on the Stage Deck and Stage Plug tools, a stage is automatically created according to specified parameters. The required number, size, and type of stage objects automatically fill the designated area. For more customizable options, see Inserting Stage Structures.

1 Create a closed 2D object (such as a rectangle, polyline, or polygon) to represent the stage. The dimensions of the object should match the dimensions of the stage to be created.

Parameter	Description
Stage Height	Specifies the overall stage height
Standard Stage Deck Width/Depth	Specifies the dimensions of a rectangular stage
Structure	Select the type of stage construction; stage plug objects are shown as an example.
Top Thickness	For Legs-Basic and Deck Only stages, sets the thickness of the deck.
Trim Height	For Legs-Basic and Deck Only stages, sets the height of the trim around the stage
Leg Diameter	For Legs-Basic, sets the diameter of the leg supports
Leg Profile	For Legs-Basic, select a round, square, or octagonal shape for the legs
Leg Reference Spacing	For Legs-Basic, sets an approximate spacing value for the legs; the exact spacing is determined automatically by evenly dividing the length of the deck
Minimize Leg Count	When multiple stages fill an area, removes unnecessary legs from Legs-Basic structures that are supported by adjacent stages
Add Casters	For Legs-Basic, adds casters to the legs to create a rolling platform
Object Class	To control appearance and visibility, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class
Purpose/Set Cart ID/Note	Enter information about the stage which can be placed on the drawing with the Text Options from the Object Info palette of each individual stage object (does not affect the stage appearance)
Fill Color	Sets the fill color for the stage
Pen Color	Sets the pen color for the stage
3D Options	Specifies the appearance of applicable deck elements in 3D views. The 3D Options dialog box opens. For each available portion of the stage, either select the color from the Color list, or select Custom Texture and then click the current custom texture to open the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it. The Object Info palette displays the color or texture selections in the relevant section. The appearance of Simple stage decks is set from the Attributes palette.

If the area is rectangular, stage decks are inserted; otherwise, a combination of stage deck and/or stage plug objects are inserted.

Creating Basic Stage Stairs

Command	Path
Create Stair	Event Design

Stairs or steps are usually required to provide access to the stage from the floor. The steps are automatically adjusted to meet the top of the stage. The basic stage stairs are based on the Stage Steps tool (see Inserting Stage Steps).

Parameter	Description
Width	Specify the width of the staircase
Style	Set the type of stair to create: Simple, Self-Adjusting, Frame Free-Standing, Solid Free-Standing, or Open Free-Standing
Class	To control appearance, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Leave the stair in the None class to set the remaining attributes from the dialog box.
Fill Color	Sets the fill color for the stair
Pen Color	Sets the pen color for the stair
Texture	Opens the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it

2 Click once in the drawing to set the stair position. Click again to set the stair rotation.

Stair parameters can be edited in the Object Info palette; see Inserting Stage Steps.

Creating a Lectern

After the stage and stairs have been added, a lectern can be quickly configured and placed. When placed on the stage, the lectern elevation is automatically adjusted to the top of the stage.

Command	Path
Create Lectern	Event Design

Parameter	Description
Choose Lectern	Select one of the lecterns from the list; these are configured with default attributes and can be inserted as is. Alternatively, select a lectern shape to use as the basis for a new lectern symbol with customized attributes.
Custom Attributes	Customizes the selected lectern’s default attributes, creating a new hybrid lectern symbol
New Symbol Name	Provide a name for the new lectern symbol; the new symbol is added to the file’s resources
Class	To control appearance, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Leave the lectern in the None class to set the remaining attributes from the dialog box.
Fill Color	Set the fill color for the lectern
Pen Color	Set the pen color for the lectern
Texture	Opens the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it

2 Click once in the drawing to set the lectern position. Click again to set the lectern rotation.

Creating a Basic Video Screen

Command	Path
Create Screen	Event Design

Video screens are often necessary at events and a basic screen can be quickly configured and placed as part of the basic event design setup; see Inserting Video Screen Objects for a suite of more robust tools.

3 Click once in the drawing to set the video object position. Click again to set the object’s rotation.

Creating a Basic Seating Layout

Command	Workspace: Path
Create Seating Layout	• Architect: AEC • Spotlight: Spotlight > Architectural

The Create Seating Layout command creates a seating layout object from one or more selected polygons, rectangles, rounded rectangles, ovals, arcs/circles, or polylines. Seating can consist of chairs, tables, or tables and chairs. Seating fills the objects in a user-defined arrangement with a “look-to” location defined by a control point. Seating layout objects can also be created by drawing a polyline and then selecting the Create Objects from Shapes command (see Creating Objects from Shapes). Along with the seating layout, a Seating Count worksheet is created.

The seating layout object is meant to provide a quick, preliminary seating plan. Vectorworks Spotlight users can use the Create Seating Section command to create a more detailed seating layout appropriate for final designs in professional event venues (see Creating Seating Sections). Seating layouts can be converted into seating sections for additional detailing by using the Create Seating Section command.

1 Create the shape defining the boundary of the seating area. Objects with one or more holes can be selected; seating will not be placed where a hole exists. Multiple shapes can be selected at one time (to create several seating sections, for example).

A seating layout can also be created by clicking the Seating Layout tool from the Furn/Fixtures tool set. Draw a polygon with the tool and complete the parameters, which are identical to those described in Editing the Basic Seating Layout.

Parameter	Description
Create a new seat symbol called	Creates a new seat symbol; provide the symbol name
Use an existing symbol	Selects an existing seat symbol; specify the symbol from the list
Symbol Folders	Specifies the location of seat symbols
Symbols	Provides a graphical list of available seat symbols

3 A default symbol can be created to represent the seating; select Create a new seat symbol called and provide a symbol name. Alternatively, select an appropriate seating symbol from a library or the current file. In addition to seat symbols, table symbols and table and chair symbols can be used.

5 When prompted, click the focal point for the seating. All seats will face this point; table and chair symbols orient towards the point.

For concentric seat layouts, the distance of the seat focal point from the object determines the radius of the concentric layout. Click close to the object for a smaller radius.

The seating layout object and a Seating Count worksheet are created, with automatically calculated seat and table counts.

The Seating Count worksheet displays the number of seats and/or tables required for each seating layout section, as well as the total number of seats/tables needed for all sections. Nested symbols are counted in the worksheet, so tables and chairs are counted separately within a table and chair symbol. (If a symbol cannot be identified as a table or chair, it is counted as a chair.)

This worksheet functions only with a seating layout object. If you convert the seating layout to a seating section, the worksheet does not update.

Editing the Basic Seating Layout

Parameter	Description
Rotation	Specifies the number of degrees to rotate the object (0.00 is horizontal)
Text Style	Select a text style from a library or the current file. To use the style defined for the object’s class, select <Class Text Style>. To format the text using options on the Text menu, select <Un-Styled>. See Usando Estilos de Texto and Formatando Textos.
Seat Spacing	Specifies the distance between seats
Row Spacing	Specifies the distance between rows of seats
Use Absolute Seat Spacing	When selected, adheres strictly to the value of the Seat Spacing parameter; when deselected, Seat Spacing is used as a minimum guideline to space the seats evenly within the boundary
Allow Seat Past Boundary	Select to allow part of the seat symbols to extend beyond the boundary
Section Name	Assigns a section name for use in the Seating Count worksheet
Concentric	Select to draw a concentric seating arrangement
Offset Alternate Rows	Offsets alternating rows (starting with the second row), so that the seats are staggered by a half seat width, or chairs and tables are spaced to prevent overlapping
Offset 1st Row	Specifies an offset distance for the first row of seats
Use Center of Row as Origin	When selected, seats are placed starting at the center of the first row; when deselected, seats are placed starting at the first vertex of the bounding shape
Use Symbol Center for Insertion	When selected, the center of the seat is the used as the insertion point; when deselected, the insertion point is centered between the two back legs of the chair
Focal Pt X/Y	Indicates the coordinates of the seating look-to point
Focus Front	Click to snap the seating layout’s focal point to the front. Because flexible seating areas can have multiple potential fronts, repeated clicks toggle the focal point around the seating area, to each possible front. The focal point snaps to the midpoint of each path segment that defines the seating area.
Draw Boundary Line	Select to display the object used as the basis for the seating layout; deselect to hide the object and show the seats only
Draw Layout Lines Only	Select to display the seating locations without showing the actual seat symbols
Base Z Height	Specifies the initial elevation of the first row of seating
Rise per Row	Specifies the elevation increase for each row of seating (seating layout slope)
Display Seating Section Name	Displays the name of the seating section on the drawing, as set in Section Name
Display Seating Count	Displays the number of seats in the section on the drawing, separated by table and chair counts
Show Seat Number	Displays a seat number on each symbol; a table-and-chair symbol receives a single number
Starting Number	Displays and sets the starting number for the first seating symbol in the section
Increment	Specifies the seating number increment value Use an increment value of 2 to number a section with all even or odd seat numbers.
Seating Count	Select a method for limiting the number of seats permitted in a seating area, or leave the option Unlimited. If a limitation method is chosen, specify maximum values for the Seats per Row and Rows per Section. • Limit the Number of Seats creates no more than the maximum number of seats per row and rows per section specified, fit within the seating area boundaries. • Notify When Count is Exceeded creates seats to fill the seating area but provides red warning text over the seating area when the seats per row and/or rows per section maximum values are exceeded. • Specify the Number of Seats creates exactly the number of seats per row and rows per section specified. All rows are of uniform length; the seating area path is used only to determine an origin and rotation for the seating plan, not to shape or limit the seating area.
Select Symbol	Opens the Choose a Symbol dialog box, to replace the current seating symbol. Select the desired seating symbol from a library or the current file. When the Vectorworks Spotlight product is installed, the default content for event design seating is available.
Classes	Opens the Classes dialog box, to specify class naming for the various seating layout labels and numbers. This allows the section name, seating count, and seat number to be set to visible, grayed, or invisible. Use the suggested standard class, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Select <Seating Layout Class> to place the seating layout label in the same class as the seating layout. • Class Prefix: Specifies an optional default root class naming standard for all seating layout labels; click Use Standard Classes to begin seating layout label class names with the prefix, so that they are sorted together. • Use Standard Classes: Sets the class names for all seating layout labels to the default suggested standard names, using the Class Prefix if there is one. • Seating layout labels: For each seating layout label, specifies the class name standard; the class names shown here are applied to the labels.
Chair Symbol	Displays the seating symbol name used to create the seating layout
Chair Count	Displays the number of seats used in the layout
Table Symbol	Displays the table symbol name used to create the seating layout
Table Count	Displays the number of tables used in the layout
Symbol Name	Displays the chair or table and chair symbol used to create the seating layout
Vertex Parameters	Edits the seating layout path vertices; see Editing Vertex-Based Objects

The seating layout can be reshaped with the Reshape tool to add, subtract, and change vertices. The seats are automatically adjusted to fit the new shape. More sophisticated editing operations, such as adding, clipping, intersecting and combining into surfaces can be performed on the seating layout path object by selecting Modify > Edit Seating Layout.

The seating section name and seating count text position can be adjusted by moving the control point. Adjust the text font and size of the label and seat numbers with the commands from the Text menu.

If the seating orientation requires adjustment, the seat control point can be moved to readjust the seating focal point. The control point is referenced relative to the center of the seating layout. If two imaginary axis lines were placed over the seating layout as shown in the diagram, placing the control point in line with the center of the axes would orient the seats directly toward the control point.

Seating Symbol Specifications

The Create Seating Layout command in the Vectorworks Architect and Spotlight products and the Create Seating Section command in the Vectorworks Spotlight product use table and chair symbols that are available from the default content. It’s also possible to make your own table, chair, and nested table and chair symbols for use with these features (see Customizing Seating Symbols).

Symbol Characteristics

Symbols should be hybrid (2D/3D) so that they display properly in both 2D and 3D views. At a minimum, the symbol must contain a 2D representation.

Create the 2D view of the symbol using as few polygons and lines as possible. If possible, use a single polyline rather than individual line segments. The line weight of the symbol is also a consideration; the symbols need to stand out when printed. The outer perimeter of the symbol should have a line weight of at least 1/2 point (7 mils). Interior details should use a lighter line weight. The 2D representation should have a solid fill so that it obscures information under the symbol.

Keep the 3D symbol simple. It should be solid. The model should be accurately sized, but without minute details. These items can add significantly to the rendering time required, and are not necessary to distinguish among objects.

To create a table and chair symbol, create the chair and table symbols separately, and then create a symbol from the table and chair symbols, so that the table and chair symbols are nested symbols.

Attaching the Event Planning Record to Seating Symbols

Attach the Event Planning Record to the symbol definition, with the Type field indicating whether the symbol is a table or chair. This allows the Seating Count worksheet to accurately count tables and chairs.

1 From the Resource Manager, select Vectorworks Libraries\Defaults\Event Planning\Seating\Seating.vwx. Drag the Event Planning Record to the active file to import it.

2 From the Resource Manager, right-click the symbol definition, and select Attach Record from the context menu.

4 Select the Event Planning Record and click Edit Values. In the Type field, enter “Table” or “Chair.”

Creating Basic Event Views

Command	Path
Create Views	Event Design

Once the desired elements of the event have been added to the room, it is often necessary to create views of the room to show to the client. The Create Views command automatically creates two sheet layers that reflect basic views of the event layout: a 2D plan view and a rendered isometric view. The Plan View sheet layer displays the layout in a Top/Plan, Wireframe mode viewport, and includes the seating count worksheet. The Rendered View sheet layer displays the layout in an isometric viewport, rendered in OpenGL mode.

2 The views are automatically created. The rendered viewport may require updating; with the viewport selected, click Update from the Object Info palette.

Event Design

The Vectorworks Spotlight product offers tools and commands needed to design sophisticated concert and theatrical venues. You can create seating sections, stages, soft goods, and video and audio objects, in addition to designing complete lighting, hoist, and cable networks.

Vectorworks Spotlight also offers a Projeto Básico de Eventos suite appropriate for designing room layouts for events such as banquets, presentations, or training sessions.

Creating Seating Sections

Command	Path
Create Seating Section	Event Design

Use the Create Seating Section command to create the final, detailed design for seating sections in a variety of configurations. You can create features such as rises and custom numbering plans, edit individual seats as needed to create exactly the arrangement you need, and then output the data to editable reports included with the software. Quick editing capabilities allow you to change specific elements of the plan without using the processor resources to redraw the entire seating section.

To quickly design preliminary seating layouts that can be converted into seating sections for final detailing, see Creating a Basic Seating Layout.

1 Select the objects (such as 2D shapes, seating layouts, multiple seating sections to combine, or multiple seating symbols) to create the seating section.

The settings are grouped into several panes of related parameters, which are listed on the left side of the dialog box; these parameters vary depending on whether a standard or curved seating type is selected. Select each pane and specify the seating section parameters.

Selected object	Creation Sequence
A closed 2D shape (such as a rectangle) to define the boundary of the seating area	Click in the drawing to set the focus point. The Seating Section Settings dialog box opens.
One or more existing seating layouts	The seating layout is converted to a seating section. Select Redraw Seating in the Object Info palette to open the Seating Section Settings dialog box.
Two or more existing seating sections	The Combine Seating Section dialog box opens. Select one of the options: • Combine the seating sections into a new seating section, and name the new section. • Add the seating sections to one of the selected seating sections, and select which section. Select Focus Seating in the Object Info palette, then click in the drawing to place the focus point for the new seating section. Select Redraw Seating in the Object Info palette to open the Seating Section Settings dialog box.
Multiple seating symbols	The Section Information pane of the Seating Section Settings dialog box opens. Name the seating section. Select Focus Seating in the Object Info palette, and then click in the drawing to place the focus point for the new seating section. Select Redraw Seating in the Object Info palette to open the Seating Section Settings dialog box.

These parameters can be edited for selected seating sections from the Object Info palette, as described in Editing Seating Sections.

Seating Section Settings

Every pane of the Seating Section Settings dialog box displays a preview of the seating section with the current settings; the preview updates dynamically as the settings are edited.

Parameter	Description
(Seating Type)	Select whether to create a Standard (straight) or Curved seating section; depending on the settings, curved seating sections can curve into a complete 360° circle
Top/Plan Preview	Dynamically displays a Top/Plan preview of the seating section with the currently selected parameters
Use Actual Symbols	Select to display the selected Seating Symbol in the preview; if deselected, the preview displays the symbol’s bounding box and center point

Seating Section Settings: Arrangement Pane

Parameter	Description
Alignment Type (Standard seating type only)	Select the seating alignment with reference to the Primary Fill Direction and Secondary Fill Direction; in the examples below, the fill direction settings are Left to Right and Top to Bottom • Shift Rows: seats are aligned with the boundary • Align Rows: seats in each row are aligned directly behind one another • Offset Rows: every other row is offset by half the width of the first seat • Distribute Rows: seats fill the boundary edge-to-edge; spacing is adjusted to distribute seats evenly in each row, with Seat Spacing treated as the minimum value
Placement
Seat Spacing	Specify how far apart to space the seats in a row; spacing is based on the symbol’s bounding box and insertion point
Row Spacing	Specify how far apart to space the rows; spacing is based on the symbol’s bounding box and insertion point
Distance Measurement	Select whether to measure the Row Spacing from the back leg of one row to the front leg of the next, or from the front leg of one row to the front leg of the next
Allowable Distance Past Boundary	If the seating is permitted to go past the seating section boundary, specify by how much
Primary Fill Direction	Select whether to fill the seating section from Left to Right, Right to Left or Center Out for straight sections, and Clockwise or Counter Clockwise for curved sections
Secondary Fill Direction	Select whether to fill the seating section from Top to Bottom, Bottom to Top, or Center Out for straight sections, and from Inside to Outside or Outside to Inside for curved sections
Start Angle	For curved seating sections, specify where the seats start to be placed
Rise	If the seating section is to rise from the front to the back, select how to calculate the rise, and specify the height
(Symbol list)	You can specify more than one symbol in the section
#	Displays the symbols in the fill order for the seating section, with reference to the Primary Fill Direction and Secondary Fill Direction. This is a static field that displays the order. To change the order, you must click each row and then select a different symbol for the row.
Symbol	Displays the current symbol name; to change the symbol, click on the row and then select a new symbol from the Resource Selector
Alignment in Row	Select whether to align the symbols by the top, center, bottom, or insertion point
Add	Click to add a row to the bottom of the list. The active symbol is used by default; select a new symbol from the Resource Selector.
Remove	Click the row with the symbol to remove, and then click to remove the selected symbol from the seating section
Seating Symbol	Opens the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it. Alternatively, select a symbol to use as the basis for a new seating symbol with customized attributes, or create your own seating symbol, as described in Seating Symbol Specifications.
Customize Symbol	Customizes the selected seating’s default attributes, creating a new hybrid seating symbol; see Customizing Seating Symbols

Seating Section Settings: Section Information Pane

Parameter	Description
Name	Name the seating section; Vectorworks automatically assigns each seating section a unique ID, so this name does not have to be unique in the document
Number Seats	Select to number the seats; for a table-and-chair symbol, the table is numbered
Numbering Direction	Select the direction in which to number the seats
Restart on next row	Select to start each row with the Start at value; if deselected, the numbering is continuous throughout the section
Start at	Specify the first seat number; alphanumeric values are allowed
Increment	Specify the seat numbering increment
Number Rows	Select to number the rows; for a table-and-chair symbol, the table is numbered
Numbering Direction	Select the direction in which to number the rows
Start at	Specify the first row number; alphanumeric values are allowed
Increment	Specify the row numbering increment
Separator	Select the separator between the row number and seat number in the display
Display Row Number	Select whether to display the row number on every seat, or on one or both ends of the row

Seating Section Settings: Limits Pane

Parameter	Description
Seats per Row	Select if there is a maximum number of seats allowed per row, and specify the limit
Rows per Section	Select if there is a maximum number of rows allowed per section, and specify the limit
Total Seats	Select if there is a maximum total number of seats allowed per section, and specify the limit
Minimum Seats per Row	For curved seating sections, select if there is a minimum number of seats allowed per row, and specify the limit
Draw Loci	Select to draw loci where seats could have been placed within the boundary but were not placed due to numerical limits

Seating Section Settings: Angle Pane

If the seating section object is four-sided and all four corners are 90°, you can specify an angle for the seating within the boundary.

Parameter	Description
Angle Seating	Angles the seating within the boundary, and specify an angle up to +/-180°; the angle can be specified by entering a percentage or by dragging the slider. For a Curved seating type, each seat turns individually, rather than angling the entire row. The seating angle is connected to the seating section’s focus point. As the Angle Seating value is changed, the focus point automatically moves to maintain the logical link. Likewise, if the focus point is moved, the Angle Seating value is automatically updated.
Angle Based on	Specify whether the angle is based on the left or right side of the boundary
Adjust Boundary with Angle	Reshapes the boundary to conform to angled seating; deselecting this option may result in the loss of seats

Parameter

Description

Angle Seating

Angles the seating within the boundary, and specify an angle up to +/-180°; the angle can be specified by entering a percentage or by dragging the slider. For a Curved seating type, each seat turns individually, rather than angling the entire row.

The seating angle is connected to the seating section’s focus point. As the Angle Seating value is changed, the focus point automatically moves to maintain the logical link. Likewise, if the focus point is moved, the Angle Seating value is automatically updated.

Angle Based on

Specify whether the angle is based on the left or right side of the boundary

Adjust Boundary with Angle

Reshapes the boundary to conform to angled seating; deselecting this option may result in the loss of seats

Seating Section Settings: Classes Pane

Parameter

Description

Classes

Opens the Classes dialog box, to specify class naming for the various portions of the seating section. This allows portions of the seating section to be set to visible, grayed, or invisible.

Use the suggested standard class, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Select <Seating Section Class> to place the seating section element in the same class as the seating section.

• Class Prefix: Specifies an optional default root class naming standard for all seating section parts; click Use Standard Classes to begin all seating section class names with the prefix, so that they are sorted together.

• Use Standard Classes: Sets the class names for all seating section elements to the default suggested standard names, using the Class Prefix if there is one.

• Seating section elements: For each portion of the seating section, specifies the class name standard; the class names shown here are applied to the elements.

Customizing Seating Symbols

It is possible to customize the seating symbol attributes to create a new hybrid symbol definition for use in seating sections.

1 From the Arrangement pane of the Creating Seating Section dialog box, select a Seating Symbol to use as the basis for the customized symbol.

2 Click Customize Symbol to change the default appearance of the selected symbol if desired. This creates a new symbol definition that is added to the file’s resources.

Parameter	Description
Chair/Table Attributes	Sets the attributes for the chair and/or table symbol
Fill Color	Sets the fill color for the chairs and/or tables
Pen Color	Sets the pen color for the chairs and/or tables
Texture	Select the chair and/or table texture from a library or the current file
Preview	Displays a preview of the symbol the attributes applied
Render Mode	Select whether to preview the symbol in wireframe or OpenGL rendering mode
New Symbol Name	Provide a name for the new seating symbol; the new symbol is added to the file’s resources. Names are automatically generated for nested table and chair symbols.
Class	To control appearance, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Leave the seating in the None class to set the attributes from the dialog box.

Editing Seating Sections

Command	Path
Edit Boundary	Context menu

Alternatively, use the Reshape tool to reshape the boundary (see Remodelando Objetos).

Some, but not all, parameters can be edited from both the Seating Section Settings dialog box and the Object Info palette for ease of access. The fields in the Object Info palette are named similarly (but not always identically) to those in the Seating Section Settings dialog box, and roughly reflect the order in which settings are entered in the dialog box. The seating section parameters are described in Creating Seating Sections. Only the parameters that are different are described here.

Parameter	Description
Seating Type	Static display of the selected seating type; this parameter can be changed by clicking Arrangement or Redraw Seating
Always Redraw Section	Redraws the seating section for each change made in the Object Info palette; selecting this option may use significant computer resources and slow down operations. If this option is not selected, you can click Update to redraw the section as desired.
Display Boundary	Displays the seating section’s bounding box
Display Section Info	Select for a static display of the number of chairs/tables, the maximum/minimum tables/chairs per row, the maximum number of rows, and the angle of the seating; if deselected, the data do not show
Update	If Always Redraw Section is not selected, click to redraw the seating section
Settings	Opens the Seating Section Settings dialog box to edit and redraw the seating section (see Creating Seating Sections)
Edit Seating	Click for Custom Editing Individual Seats
Text Options	Opens the Set Labels dialog box; click in the Display column to select which information to display in the seating section label and set the text size and format. Once the label is placed in the drawing, position it using the control point
Classes	Opens the Seating Section Settings: Classes Pane to edit the class assignments for the seating section elements; other panes of the dialog box are not available and the entire seating section is not redrawn
Vertex parameters	Edits the vertices of the path object that the seating section is based upon; see Editing Vertex-Based Objects

Custom Editing Individual Seats

Command	Path
Edit Seating	Context menu

Alternatively, double-click on the seating section object, or click Edit Seating from the Object Info palette.

2 The Object Editing Mode opens. You can add or delete seats, change the angle of individual seats, or change the size of the floor.

3 When you exit object editing mode, you are given the option to automatically reshape the bounding box to accommodate the edits.

Custom Renumbering Selected Seats

Command	Path
Number Seats	Context menu

3 Select individual seats in the order you wish to number them, and then click in an empty part of the drawing to end numbering.

Inserting Soft Goods

The Soft Goods tool is in the Event Design tool set (Spotlight and Braceworks workspaces) and the Detailing tool set (Designer workspace).

The Soft Goods tool inserts theater and event planning draperies such as curtains, borders, scrims, and pipe-and-drape assemblies. Soft goods objects are drawn along a path, so they can be straight, curved, or in any configuration for total flexibility; the path can be edited after placement. The 3D appearance of soft goods objects can be set for a realistic appearance, or display more schematically. The materials used to create the soft goods configuration can be included in a report for cost estimation (see Creating Reports). Text labels identify the components of the soft goods object.

There is an alternate way to create soft goods effects without the Soft Goods tool, which may be useful for users not using the Spotlight product.

Inserting Curtains and Borders

Mode	Tool	Workspace: Tool set
Modes for the Polyline Tool	Soft Goods	• Spotlight: Event Design • Designer: Detailing

The Soft Goods tool creates a curved or straight stage curtain or border. To draw a curtain, either use the Soft Goods tool, or create a polyline and then select the Create Objects from Shapes command (see Creating Objects from Shapes).

3 Select either Curtain or Border from the Function list, and specify any other default parameters for this session.

The Corner Vertex or Point on Arc modes are recommended. For more information on the polyline drawing modes, see Creating Polylines.

6 Click to set the end of the segment and the beginning of the next. Continue drawing segments in this manner until the curtain or border object is complete, and then double-click.

Once created, the soft goods object can be reshaped by double-clicking on it. The Reshape tool is automatically activated, to reshape the object directly in the drawing.

The curtain or border parameters can be edited from the Object Info palette. However, certain parameters are not available for borders.

Parameter	Description
Function	Select either Curtain or Border (for pipe-and-drape assembles, see Inserting Pipe-and-Drape Assemblies)
Adjustable Length	Specifies the length of a straight curtain or border
Height	Indicates the height of the curtain or border
Top Trim	Displays the height at the top of the curtain or border, taking into account the height of the curtain and its elevation
Bottom Trim	Displays the height of the bottom of the curtain or border (the distance from the floor)
Show Centerline	In Top/Plan view, displays the curtain center line or the border reference line
Show Markers	Places an indicator at the start, end, or both ends of the curtain
Add Pipe	Draws a pipe with the curtain; the length of the pipe is the same as that of the curtain
Add Track	Draws the curtain track
Track Width	Sets the width of the curtain track
Show Traveler Pull	Shows the traveler pull on the left or right of the track, or hides the traveler pull
Add Solenoids	Adds curtain release solenoids
Ends Inset	Indicates the distance from the ends of the curtain where the first solenoid is placed
Target Spacing	Enter the desired spacing between the solenoids
Actual Spacing	Displays the resulting solenoid spacing
Total Solenoid Count	Displays the total number of solenoids placed
Open From	For curtains, creates an opening in the curtain at the center or at one of the ends.
Width	When a curtain opening has been selected, specifies the width of the opening
Show Ghost Curtain	Displays the open section of the curtain with dotted lines in Top/Plan view
Reverse Side	For borders, switches the curtain to the other side of the center reference line
Running Length	For curved curtains, shows the total curtain length
Stock Drape Width	Specifies the width of an individual drape panel
Minimum Overlap	Indicates the total distance of curtain overlap
Tied Fullness %	Sets the overlap percentage at each curtain tie, and affects the Total Drape Count
Total Drape Count	Displays the number of drape panels required based on the specified stock drape width
Show Drape Breaks	Places markers where each drape ends and the next one starts
Show Overlap	Indicates where the drapes overlap
Simple 2D	Temporarily simplifies the Top/Plan view of the curtain or border, showing it as a line
Simple 3D	Temporarily simplifies the 3D view of the curtain or border, showing it as a flat surface
Pleat Width	Indicates the distance between pleats
Pleat Depth	Indicates the depth of the curtain pleats
Flip Pleats	Switches the positive and negative portions of the pleats
Adjust Starting	For borders, offsets the starting point of the border
Adjust Ending	For borders, offsets the ending point of the border
3D Curtain Options	Opens the 3D Curtain Options dialog box, for setting the appearance of the curtain in 3D; see Setting Soft Goods 3D Display Options
Current Option	Displays the currently selected 3D option
Location	Enter notes about the curtain or border location, if desired
Material Color	Enter notes about the curtain or border color (does not affect the curtain appearance)
Material Type	Enter notes about the curtain or border material (does not affect the curtain appearance)
Top Finish	Select the finish for the top of the curtain or border
Spacing	Sets the spacing for tie, hook, or grommet finishes
Bottom Finish	Select the finish for the bottom of the curtain or border
Sides Finish	Select the finish for the sides of the curtain or border
Sewn Fullness %	Specifies the curtain or border fullness information (does not affect curtain appearance)
Lining	Enter notes about the curtain or border lining material
Note	Enter any miscellaneous information required, such as stock number or other data
Text Options	Opens the Text Options dialog box, to enable the display and format the text of labels; see Formatting Soft Goods Object Labels
Default Text Positions	Text labels can be moved by dragging their control point; this option returns them to their default locations
Classes	Opens the Classes dialog box, to specify class naming for the various portions of the soft goods object. This allows portions of the soft goods to be set to visible, grayed, or invisible. Use the suggested standard class, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Select <Soft Goods Class> to place the soft goods element in the same class as the soft goods object. • Class Prefix: Specifies an optional default root class naming standard for all soft goods parts; click Use Standard Classes to begin all soft goods class names with the prefix, so that they are sorted together. • Use Standard Classes: Sets the class names for all soft goods elements to the default suggested standard names, using the Class Prefix if there is one. • Soft goods elements: For each portion of the soft goods object, specifies the class name standard; the class names shown here are applied to the elements.
Update	Updates the object when changes have been made to the Object Info palette parameters
Load Information	A soft goods object is considered to be a distributed load in Braceworks calculations; the curtain line needs to be parallel to the structural element. Load information is used for Braceworks calculations and reports (Braceworks required).
Include in Calculations (Braceworks required)	Includes the soft goods object in Braceworks calculations; deselect to exclude the object from participating in structural calculations
Load Group Name	The load category is always Scenery for soft goods objects
Load ID	Enter a unique ID for the load for informational use in reports
Load Name	Identifies the object in load calculations
Distributed Weight	Enter the distributed weight of the soft goods object; changes here also affect the Total Weight value
Total Weight	Enter the total weight of the object
Vertex Parameters	Edits the vertices of the path object that the curtain is based upon; see Editing Vertex-Based Objects

Inserting Pipe-and-Drape Assemblies

Mode	Tool	Workspace: Tool set
Modes for the Polyline Tool	Soft Goods	• Spotlight: Event Design • Designer: Detailing

The Soft Goods tool creates pipe-and-drape assemblies typically used in event planning, such as when creating temporary booths in a convention center. To draw a pipe-and-drape assembly, either use the Soft Goods tool, or create a polyline and then select the Create Objects from Shapes command (see Creating Objects from Shapes).

3 Select Pipe-and-Drape from the Function list, and specify any other default parameters for this session.

6 Click to set the end of the segment and the beginning of the next. Continue drawing segments in this manner until the pipe-and-drape assembly is complete, and then double-click.

Once created, the soft goods object can be edited by selecting the object, and then selecting Modify > Edit Soft Goods. Reshape the soft goods polyline with the Reshape tool; click Exit Profile to return to the drawing.

The pipe-and-drape assembly parameters can be edited from the Object Info palette.

Parameter	Description
Function	Select Pipe-and-Drape
Adjustable Length	Specifies the length of a straight pipe-and-drape assembly
Height	Indicates the height of the pipe-and-drape assembly
Show Centerline	In Top/Plan view, displays the center line of the pipe-and-drape assembly
Draw Slider(s)	Draws the soft goods slider segments at the top of the assembly
Slider Options	The number of sliders (panel segments) created depends on the Adjustable Length of the entire assembly, the selected Slider Options range, and the Target Length specified. Select from a list of standard slider size ranges, or select Custom to create a non-standard slider size and enter the number of panels to include.
Target Length	Sets the desired slider length within the range specified in Slider Options. If Custom is selected for the Slider Options, enter the specific length for the slider.
Actual Length	Displays the calculated slider length used for the segments
Slider Total	Displays the actual number of slider segments used; if Custom is selected for the Slider Options, specify the number of slider segments desired
Running Length	Displays the total length of the pipe-and-drape assembly
Base Plate Options	Select from a list of standard base plate sizes, or choose the rounded boom base
Base Diameter	For the round boom base option, indicates the diameter of the boom base
End Hardware	Select whether to include end hardware (base plate and upright) at each end of the assembly
First Plate Shift	When a base plate is included at the start of the assembly, select whether it is centered on the upright (None), or shifted towards the inside (In) or outside (Out). This option does not apply to a boom base.
Last Plate Shift	When a base plate is included at the end of the assembly, select whether it is centered on the upright (None), or shifted towards the inside (In) or outside (Out). This option does not apply to a boom base.
Upright/Plate Total	Displays the number of uprights and base plates in the assembly
Show 3D Uprights	Displays the upright hardware in 3D views; deselect this option for faster rendering
Stock Drape Width	Specifies the width of an individual drape panel
Minimum Overlap	Indicates the total distance of drape overlap
Tied Fullness %	Sets the overlap percentage at each curtain tie, and affects the Total Drape Count
Total Drape Count	Displays the number of drape panels required based on the specified stock drape width
Show Drape Breaks	Places markers where each drape ends and the next one starts
Show Overlap	Indicates where the drapes overlap
Simple 2D	Temporarily simplifies the Top/Plan view of the pipe-and-drape assembly, showing it as a line
Simple 3D	Temporarily simplifies the 3D view of the pipe-and-drape assembly, showing it as a flat surface
Pleat Width	Indicates the distance between pleats
Pleat Depth	Indicates the depth of the pleats
Flip Pleats	Switches the positive and negative portions of the pleats
3D Curtain Options	Opens the 3D Curtain Options dialog box, for setting the appearance of the pipe-and-drape assembly in 3D; see Setting Soft Goods 3D Display Options
Current Option	Displays the currently selected 3D option
Location	Enter notes about the pipe-and-drape assembly location, if desired
Material Color	Enter notes about the pipe-and-drape assembly color (does not affect the drapery appearance)
Material Type	Enter notes about the pipe-and-drape assembly material (does not affect the drapery appearance)
Note	Enter any miscellaneous information required, such as stock number or other data
Text Options	Opens the Text Options dialog box, to enable the display and format the text of labels; see Formatting Soft Goods Object Labels
Default Text Positions	Text labels can be moved by dragging their control point; this option returns them to their default locations
Classes	Opens the Classes dialog box, to specify class naming for the various portions of the soft goods object. This allows portions of the soft goods to be set to visible, grayed, or invisible. Use the suggested standard class, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Select <Soft Goods Class> to place the soft goods element in the same class as the soft goods object. • Class Prefix: Specifies an optional default root class naming standard for all soft goods parts; click Use Standard Classes to begin all soft goods class names with the prefix, so that they are sorted together. • Use Standard Classes: Sets the class names for all soft goods elements to the default suggested standard names, using the Class Prefix if there is one. • Soft goods elements: For each portion of the soft goods object, specifies the class name standard; the class names shown here are applied to the elements.
Update	Updates the object when changes have been made to the Object Info palette parameters
Load Information	A soft goods object is considered to be a distributed load in Braceworks calculations; the pipe-and-drape line needs to be parallel to the structural element. Load information is used for Braceworks calculations and reports (Braceworks required).
Include in Calculations (Braceworks required)	Includes the soft goods object in Braceworks calculations; deselect to exclude the object from participating in structural calculations
Load Group Name	The load category is always Scenery for soft goods objects
Load ID	Enter a unique ID for the load for informational use in reports
Load Name	Identifies the object in load calculations
Distributed Weight	Enter the distributed weight of the soft goods object; changes here also affect the Total Weight value
Total Weight	Enter the total weight of the object
Vertex Parameters	Edits the vertices of the path object that the curtain is based upon; see Editing Vertex-Based Objects.

To create an opening in the pipe-and-drape assembly, edit the vertex parameters from the Object Info palette. Select the vertex prior to the opening as described in Editing Vertex-Based Objects, and then click Hide Next Edge.

Setting Soft Goods 3D Display Options

Select a texture or color to display on the curtain, border, or pipe-and-drape assembly in 3D views. A curtain object can also be made to look like a scrim; pipe-and-drape assemblies can have alternating panel colors. The Vectorworks Spotlight product includes a number of sample textures, or you can create your own textures (see Creating Textures). The settings made here override any class settings made, if the soft goods object is assigned to a class; an alert dialog box opens if there is a conflict.

Select a curtain, border, or pipe-and-drape assembly. From the Object Info palette, click 3D Curtain Options. The 3D Curtain Options dialog box opens. Select the display option from the 3D Curtain Options list and then choose the formatting options.

Parameter	Description
3D Curtain Options	Select the type of display for the soft goods material: • Opaque: Displays with a solid color • Scrim: Displays with a partly transparent color • Custom: Displays an image or assigned texture • Multi-Color: Displays each panel of the pipe-and-drape assembly with an alternating solid color
Opaque
Opaque or Scrim Color	Specifies the color of the soft goods object in 3D views; click the color box to select the color
Scrim
Opaque or Scrim Color	Specifies the color of the soft goods object in 3D views; click the color box to select the color
Custom
Texture	Opens the Resource Selector; double-click a resource to select it
Scale and Adjust Texture	If the selected texture does not have the desired size or position in the Preview, adjust its scale or position
Scale	Increases or decreases the texture scale
Horizontal Shift	Shifts the texture horizontally to the left or right
Vertical Shift	Shifts the texture vertically up or down
Flip Texture	Flips the texture
Tile Texture	Tiles the texture
Preview	Displays the texture selected for the soft goods object
Multi-Color (pipe-and-drape only)
Multi-Color Properties	Lists the colors, in order, that will alternate on the pipe-and drape assembly panels To change the order of the colors, click on the # column and drag the color to a new position in the list.
Panel Color	Specifies the color of the selected panel; click the color box to select the color
Name	Enter a name for the specified color
Add Color	Adds the Panel Color to the Multi-Color Properties list, to be included among the panel colors. If a color has been changed, replaces the changed color in the list.
Remove Color	Removes the selected color from the Multi-Color Properties list

Formatting Soft Goods Object Labels

Parameter	Description
Optional Elements to Show	Select items to add to the text label; different label elements are available for curtains or borders and pipe-and-drape assemblies
Include Element Labels	Includes the name of the element along with the value; deselect this option to display the parameter value only
Text Attributes
Stack Text	Separates each selected label element by placing it in its own line of text; deselect this option to create a single line for all the selected elements
Automatically Position Text	Automatically places the label with the soft goods object; deselect this option to be able to reposition the label by dragging the label control point
Keep Text Horizontal	Maintains the text in a horizontal position even when the object is rotated; deselect this option to rotate the label along with the object
Fill Text Background	Allows a text background fill to be used for all soft goods text; by default, white is used as the fill color. To specify a different fill color, click Classes in the Object Info palette, and then select a fill color for the class of the soft goods text. The class should be set to Use at Creation.
Text formatting options	Specify the text size, color, and alignment

Once the label has been added to the drawing, it can be moved by clicking and dragging the label control point (unless Automatically Position Text is selected in the Text Options). Click Default Text Positions from the Object Info palette of a selected soft goods object to restore the text label to its original location.

Creating Barriers with the Rope and Stanchion Tool

Mode	Tool	Tool set
Modes for the Polyline Tool	Rope and Stanchion	Event Design

The Rope and Stanchion tool creates various types of barricades or roped-off areas for crowd control or for decorative purposes.

3 Click to set the end of the segment and the beginning of the next. Continue drawing segments in this manner until the rope and stanchion object is complete, and then double-click.

The first time you use the tool in a file, a properties dialog box opens. Set the default properties.

Parameter	Description
Adjustable Length/ Total Length	Specifies the length from the first stanchion to the end stanchion; this can be changed from the Object Info palette or from the drawing. The parameter name depends on whether the object is straight or has several vertices.
Stanchions
Post Height/Post Diameter	Specifies the height and diameter of the post portion of each stanchion
Post Top Type	Select a style for the top of the post; the Simple style varies in appearance, depending on whether belt is selected for the Stringer Type
Post Color	Displays the texture or color selected in the 3D options
Base Type	Select a round or square base
Base Height/Base Width	Sets the height of the base, and the width for square base or diameter for a round base
Base Color	Displays the texture or color selected in the 3D options
Stringers
Stringer Type	Select belt, rope, or chain for the type of stringer
Belt Length	For belt stringers, enter the distance between stanchions
Belt Color/ Belt Clip Color	For belt stringers, displays the texture or color selected in the 3D options
Rope Length	For rope stringers, enter the distance between stanchions
Rope Diameter	For rope stringers, specify the diameter of the rope
Rope Color/Rope Cap Color	For rope stringers, displays the texture or color selected in the 3D options
Chain Length	For chain stringers, enter the distance between stanchions
Single Link Length	For chain stringers, specify the size of the chain links by entering the length of a single link
Chain Color	For chain stringers, displays the texture or color selected in the 3D options
Spacing and Counts
Ideal Spacing	Specifies the maximum distance between stanchions (as limited by the belt, rope, or chain length)
Actual Spacing	Displays the actual distance between the stanchions
End Stanchions	Select whether to display the stanchions at the beginning, end, both, or none
Total Stanchions	Displays the total number of stanchions for the selected object
Total Belts/Total Ropes/Total Chains	Displays the total number of belts, ropes, or chains for the selected object
3D Options	Specifies the appearance of applicable rope and stanchion elements in 3D views. The 3D Options dialog box opens. For each available portion of the rope and stanchion, either select the color from the Color list, or select Custom Texture and then select the texture from the Texture list. The Object Info palette displays the color or texture selections in the relevant section.
Location/Cart ID	Enter information about the stage which can be placed on the drawing with Text Options (does not affect the stage appearance)
Note	Adds a note, which can be placed on the drawing with the Text Options
Text Options	Opens the Text Options dialog box, to enable the display and format the text of labels
Default Text Positions	Restores text labels to their default positions
Classes	Opens the Classes dialog box, to specify class naming for the various portions of the rope and stanchion object. This allows portions of the object to be set to visible, grayed, or invisible. Use the suggested standard class, select a class from the list of classes present in the drawing, or create a new class. Select <Rope and Stanchion Class> to place the rope and stanchion element in the same class as the soft goods object. • Class Prefix: Specifies an optional default root class naming standard for all rope and stanchion parts; click Use Standard Classes to begin all rope and stanchion class names with the prefix, so that they are sorted together. • Use Standard Classes: Sets the class names for all rope and stanchion elements to the default suggested standard names, using the Class Prefix if there is one. • Soft goods elements: For each portion of the rope and stanchion object, specifies the class name standard; the class names shown here are applied to the elements.
Update	Updates the object when changes have been made to the Object Info palette parameters
Vertex Parameters	Edits the vertices of the path object that the object is based upon; see Editing Vertex-Based Objects

Formatting Rope and Stanchion Labels

1 Select a rope and stanchion object. From the Object Info palette, click Text Options.

Parameter	Description
Optional Elements to Show	Select items to add to the text labels
Include Element Labels	Includes the name of the element along with the value; deselect this option to display the parameter value only
Text Attributes
Stack Text	Separates each selected label element by placing it in its own line of text; deselect this option to create a single line for all the selected elements
Automatically Position Text	Automatically places the label with the rope and stanchion object; deselect this option to be able to reposition the label by dragging the label control point
Move Default Location To Last Stanchion	The default text location is normally the first stanchion; select this option to make the last stanchion the default location. The text is moved to the default location when clicking Default Text Positions in the Object Info palette.
Keep Text Horizontal	Maintains the text in a horizontal position even when the object is rotated; deselect this option to rotate the label along with the object
Fill Text Background	Allows a text background fill to be used for all rope and stanchion text; by default, white is used as the fill color. To specify a different fill color, click Classes in the Object Info palette, and then select a fill color for the class of the rope and stanchion text. The class should be set to Use at Creation.
Text formatting options	Specify the text size, color, and alignment

Once the label has been added to the drawing, it can be moved by clicking and dragging the label control point (unless Automatically Position Text is selected in the Text Options). Click Default Text Positions from the Object Info palette of a selected rope and stanchion object to restore the text label to its original location.