Boost your productivity with SmartPaste for Vectorworks!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is SmartPace 3.2?
3. Installation and Setup
   • 3.1 Uninstalling Previous Versions
   • 3.2 Installing SmartPace 3.2
4. Copy and Paste within the Same Document
   • 4.1 Managing Class Structure
   • 4.2 Adding Classes
   • 4.3 Creating Nested Structures
5. Merging Incoming Classes
6. Renaming Classes
7. Reverting Class Name Changes
8. Undoing Specific Actions
9. Clearing Selection of Classes
10. Introduction to Merge Memory
11. Optional Features and Settings
    • 11.1 Highlight Mode
    • 11.2 Highlighting Objects Assigned to Existing Classes
    • 11.3 Object Count
    • 11.4 Removing Empty or White Spaces from Class Names
    • 11.5 Excluding Classes with Uncertain Destination
12. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the new features available in SmartPace 3.2 and provide a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of them. SmartPace is a plugin for Vectorworks that enhances the copy and paste functionality within the software. With the automated installer and improved features, SmartPace 3.2 aims to streamline your workflow and improve productivity.

What is SmartPace 3.2?

SmartPace 3.2 is the latest version of the SmartPace plugin for Vectorworks. It introduces several new features that enhance the copy and paste functionality within the software. With SmartPace 3.2, You can automate the assignment of default copy and paste shortcuts and detect changes to your classes when placing objects. This version also introduces an improved dialog that allows you to manage your class structure quickly and easily.

Installation and Setup

3.1 Uninstalling Previous Versions

Before proceeding with the installation of SmartPace 3.2, it is essential to uninstall any previous versions of the plugin. If you are unsure how to uninstall plugins, you can find a guide in the support section of the SmartPace Website. Ensuring that previous versions are completely removed will avoid any conflicts or compatibility issues.

3.2 Installing SmartPace 3.2

To install SmartPace 3.2, use the automated installer provided. The installer can be accessed directly from the plugin manager inside Vectorworks. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. Once installed, SmartPace will automatically assign the default copy and paste shortcuts.

Copy and Paste within the Same Document

When copying and pasting objects within the same document, SmartPace 3.2 introduces a dialog that allows you to manage your class structure on the spot. This dialog provides a list of classes coming into the drawing with the objects you are pasting. On the right-HAND side, you can view the Current class structure. The dialog offers options to display classes in a linear view or a nested structure.

4.1 Managing Class Structure

To manage your class structure using the SmartPace dialog, select the branch or class you want to modify. You can add a new class by using the add button or double-clicking on the class. Existing classes that will be affected by the paste operation will appear marked in red. For a faster process, you can use the enter key to add a class.

4.2 Adding Classes

When pasting objects with SmartPace, you have the ability to maintain your class structure unchanged by merging incoming classes with the ones already existing in the drawing. To merge classes, select the incoming class and the existing class you want to merge into. Click on the merge button or double-click on the incoming class. You can also use the enter key to perform a merge.

4.3 Creating Nested Structures

If you use a nested structure with SmartPace, you can add a class directly under an existing branch. Select the branch from the list on the right-hand side of the dialog. Then, select the class you want to add and click the add button or double-click on the class. The class will be nested under the existing branch.

Merging Incoming Classes

In SmartPace 3.2, you have the ability to merge incoming classes with existing classes in the drawing. This allows you to maintain a consolidated class structure. To merge classes, select the incoming class together with the existing class you want to merge into. Click on the merge button or double-click on the incoming class. You can also use the enter key to perform a merge.

Renaming Classes

SmartPace 3.2 introduces the ability to rename classes, providing full control over your class naming. When pasting objects, you can select an incoming class and click the rename button or use the space bar to edit its name. This feature is particularly useful when working with drawings from consultants who use slightly different class names. SmartPace suggests the closest matching name Based on the letters you enter, facilitating quick merges.

Reverting Class Name Changes

After renaming a class, SmartPace 3.2 allows you to revert to its original name. Simply click the rename button again, and you will find the revert button next to the class name. By clicking the revert button, the class name will be changed back to what it was before the rename.

Undoing Specific Actions

In previous versions of SmartPace, the undo function was limited. However, in SmartPace 3.2, the undo function is fully dynamic, allowing you to undo specific actions. To undo an action, you can use the undo button or double-click on the class that was merged, added, or renamed.

Clearing Selection of Classes

If, at any moment, you need to clear your selection of classes in the SmartPace dialog, simply click on the header of the related class list. This will clear the selection, and you can start your selection again.

Introduction to Merge Memory

A significant improvement in SmartPace 3.2 is the introduction of merge memory. Merge memory is a Record of previous merge associations, allowing for automation of these associations when the same classes are pasted again in the future. This feature is particularly useful when exchanging drawings with external consultants who use a different drawing structure or software.

Optional Features and Settings

SmartPace 3.2 provides several optional features and settings that can enhance your workflow and customization options. These features can be accessed by clicking on the Settings button within the SmartPace dialog. Let's explore some of these options:

11.1 Highlight Mode

Enabling highlight mode in SmartPace allows you to see all the objects assigned to a selected class highlighted in the background. This feature works for both single class selection and multiple class selection. It helps you visually identify which objects are assigned to which class.

11.2 Highlighting Objects Assigned to Existing Classes

If you are not familiar with the class names that are incoming with the objects you are pasting, the option to highlight objects assigned to existing classes is very useful. This feature allows you to check which objects are actually assigned to which class.

11.3 Object Count

When the object count option is selected, class names inside the SmartPace dialog will be followed by the number of objects assigned to the related class. This provides an overview of the number of objects assigned to each class while you paste.

11.4 Removing Empty or White Spaces from Class Names

SmartPace 3.2 offers the option to remove empty or white spaces from class names automatically. When this option is selected, SmartPace will adjust any existing or incoming class names by removing unnecessary spaces. This helps maintain consistency and cleanliness in your class naming.

11.5 Excluding Classes with Uncertain Destination

Some classes, such as "none" or temporary classes, may not have a defined destination. To exclude these classes from merging or modifying automatically, you can enter their names in the designated text field. Any class name entered in this field will always be detected by SmartPace, and you will be asked to assign it manually, even if the class already exists. This feature helps ensure the correct assignment of objects to classes.

Conclusion

SmartPace 3.2 is a powerful tool that enhances the copy and paste functionality in Vectorworks. With features such as automated installation, class structure management, merging of incoming classes, and customizable options, SmartPace 3.2 can greatly improve your workflow and efficiency. Take AdVantage of these new features and streamline your process when working with class structures in Vectorworks.

Highlights

• SmartPace 3.2 enhances the copy and paste functionality in Vectorworks.
• The automated installer makes installation quick and easy.
• SmartPace 3.2 introduces a dialog for managing class structure.
• You can add, merge, and rename classes with SmartPace 3.2.
• Undo specific actions and revert class name changes with ease.
• Highlight objects assigned to classes and manage object count options.
• SmartPace 3.2 includes optional features and settings for customization.
• Merge memory automates merge associations for future use.
• Streamline your workflow and improve efficiency with SmartPace 3.2.

FAQ

Q: Can I install SmartPace 3.2 without uninstalling previous versions?

A: It is recommended to uninstall previous versions of SmartPace before installing SmartPace 3.2 to avoid any conflicts or compatibility issues.

Q: How can I manage the class structure when copying and pasting within the same document?

A: SmartPace 3.2 provides a dialog that allows you to manage the class structure on the spot. You can add, edit, and merge classes directly from this dialog.

Q: Can I revert class name changes made with SmartPace 3.2?

A: Yes, SmartPace 3.2 allows you to revert class name changes. Simply click the revert button next to the class name in the dialog.

Q: How does merge memory work in SmartPace 3.2?

A: Merge memory is a record of previous merge associations. It automatically merges classes that have been associated in the past when the same classes are pasted again in the future.

Q: Can I customize the SmartPace 3.2 settings?

A: Yes, SmartPace 3.2 provides optional features and settings that can be accessed through the Settings button in the SmartPace dialog. You can customize highlight modes, object count options, and more.