Stardraw Forums

.DWG Layer Features Request

http://forums.stardraw.com/Topic18067.aspx

By JWAIII - 9/5/2018 5:18:13 AM

When I import a .DWG file to a Plan Drawing, it would be helpful if I could "dim" the background or selected layers so I could emphasize the Audiovisual symbols I am placing on the drawing.  Additionally, it would be really helpful if i could sort layers by layer name. 
‌While we are at it; why not enable layer visibility in the Current Layer Properties box.  This would save untold time on drawings with a large quantity of layers.
By Rob Robinson - 9/5/2018 10:01:35 AM

Hi JWAIII,

Thanks for your post.

‌‌With SD7.3 the option to Import DWG files as "Black & White" was introduced in response to earlier user requests to differentiate the imported floor- or ceiling plan from objects added to the drawing in SD7.  Yours would be the first request to "dim" imported layers as well, but you would be able to achieve the same effect by changing the Line Color of objects on those layers from black to a shade of gray; I think this would give you what you need.

Your request to sort by Layer Name is noted.

I‌'m not sure that I fully understand your request to "‌enable layer visibility in the Current Layer Properties box".  In the Properties Grid the Current Layer Property has a single function which is to set the Current Layer for the drawing or selected Object(s); to add further functionality runs the risk of 'overloading' the control which could actually have a negative impact on usability.  Instead, just use the Layers dialog; note that the quickest way to display the dialog is to click on the hyperlink at the bottom of the application, which begins with "Current Layer:..."

I‌ hope this is helpful.‌
By Xtreme4life - 9/14/2018 1:44:49 PM

 
Rob Robinson - 9/5/2018 10:01:35 AM
Hi JWAIII,

Thanks for your post.

‌‌With SD7.3 the option to Import DWG files as "Black & White" was introduced in response to earlier user requests to differentiate the imported floor- or ceiling plan from objects added to the drawing in SD7.  Yours would be the first request to "dim" imported layers as well, but you would be able to achieve the same effect by changing the Line Color of objects on those layers from black to a shade of gray; I think this would give you what you need.

Your request to sort by Layer Name is noted.

I‌'m not sure that I fully understand your request to "‌enable layer visibility in the Current Layer Properties box".  In the Properties Grid the Current Layer Property has a single function which is to set the Current Layer for the drawing or selected Object(s); to add further functionality runs the risk of 'overloading' the control which could actually have a negative impact on usability.  Instead, just use the Layers dialog; note that the quickest way to display the dialog is to click on the hyperlink at the bottom of the application, which begins with "Current Layer:..."

I‌ hope this is helpful.‌


You cannot select a full floor plan as a whole as there are Line Objects and Text Objects.  Ive tried to no avail to change the imported CADs color to a lighter draw but has to be done by small sections if at all.  The Black and White Feature works GREAT but a gray scale to choose from would be even better....
By Rob Robinson - 9/17/2018 6:46:37 PM

We plan to publish an update shortly that resolves the issue where a selection that contains drawing objects, e.g. lines and rectangles, as well as Text fails to populate the Properties Grid.  This will allow you to set, for example, a new Line Color and Font Color across the entire selection (or drawing).

W‌e'll post again to this thread as soon as the update is available.‌
By JWAIII - 9/17/2018 11:41:54 PM

While we are at it; why not enable layer visibility in the Current Layer Properties box.

WORKFLOW:
I import a .DWG with 100+ layers (yes that actually happens). (I would be more than happy to send the mentioned .DWG file if it helps.)
‌When I click on an item in the Imported DWG (e.g. the Furniture) the Properties shows the layer of the current object. If i want to turn that layer off.  I have to remember the name, then go to the Layers, find the layer (why the sort by name would be helpful) and then turn it off.  
Then back to the drawing to select anther item I want to hide, and repeat the process.
I‌ spent over an hour doing this recently.
I‌f I could show/hide a layer just by clicking the light bulb in properties it would save a ton of time.

T‌hanks for listening.‌
By Xtreme4life - 9/18/2018 6:00:47 PM

Thank you this will greatly help. 

‌‌Also to add on to Guru, it would be great to allow the Layers Dialog Pop-Up Box to be visible or docked while working.  As of now you open it make your changes then have to close the box to continue to work again.