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, and 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:
1. Select Files > Import > Import STEP (3D only).
The Import STEP File dialog box opens.
2. Select the file to import, and click Open.
Alternatively, click the file to import and drag it into a window where a Vectorworks document is open.
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:
1. Select File > Export > Export STEP (3D only).
The Export Options dialog box opens.
2. 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.
3. Click OK.
4. Specify the file name and destination, and then click Save.