This latest update for Vectorworks 2024 brings users a new AI Visualizer based on Stable Diffusion. Moreover, the new update also adds new virtual reality (VR) technologies through two brand-new tools. And the new update also adds integration with L-Acoustics, a leader in sound-reinforcement technology and the Vectorworks Partner Network’s first platinum audio industry member.
Update 4
“This latest software update showcases our unwavering dedication to equipping our customers with cutting-edge technology to elevate their design processes,” said Vectorworks Senior Director of Rendering and Research Dave Donley. “By introducing these tools, we are taking a significant step forward in leveraging the power of AI and VR to enable users to explore their design concepts faster and with greater detail. We believe these features will assist our users in securing more work and ensure they can deliver projects with the highest level of precision and creativity.”
AI Visualizer
Powered by Vectorworks Cloud Services, the new AI Visualizer is called “experimental” by the company as it brings for the first time the power of AI (artificial intelligence) to the popular BIM/CAD platform. From directly inside the Vectorworks user interface, users can rapidly generate iterative rendered design concepts from text prompts at any stage of the design.
A rendering generated by Vectorworks AI Visualizer. (Image: Vectorworks, Inc.)
There is nothing to install (after updating to this Update 4 release) for users to take advantage of this new AI technology powered by the well-known AI tool Stable Diffusion. And even better, all AI processing and image generation is powered not through your local computer but in the Vectorworks Cloud. This means your local computer’s processing power is left at 100 percent for your Vectorworks and other apps, while the cloud extends the power of compute to AI-powered visualization.
Vectorworks Odyssey
Update 4 brings a new tool in Odyssey to use VR technology in design workflows. Based on Unity, Vectorworks Odyssey works with the Meta Quest 2 and beyond and will bring Vectorworks models to life through virtual walkthroughs using a VR headset.
Vectorworks Nomad
Nomad is not a new tool, but using Apple’s Room Plan framework, Nomad gains further advantages for Vectorworks users by letting them generate accurate 3D models directly from the iOS app. The new features include the ability to scan multiple rooms and seamlessly stitch them together into a single 3D model. Moreover, there is new support for round and slanted walls and Nomad can tackle existing conditions documentation quickly, says the company.
Here is the same scene from the AI Visualizer image above but as seen from the Vectorworks Architect model. (Image: Vectorworks, Inc.)
For Nomad use cases, Vectorworks gains a more intuitive and direct workflow for importing files from Nomad and Vectorworks Cloud Services.
BIM Updates
Vectorworks’s BIM capabilities get updated with Information Delivery Specification (IDS) features. Users can validate information and ensure compliance with local and project requirements. A modern BIM Collaboration Format (BCF) interface makes issue management workflows a breeze, with support for seamless switching between server-based and file-based BCF Managers. Plus, IFC file export makes collaboration more effective by supporting sophisticated IFC assemblies and multiple buildings, along with the certified quality of geometry and data, geo-referenced positioning, and optimized file sizes.
Additionally, Update 4 includes increased flexibility, improved documentation, and customization capabilities for the recently implemented Cabinet tool.
To learn more about Vectorworks, go here. To visit the public road map of where Vectorworks is headed, go here.
