The 2009 release the Nemetschek VectorWorks® line of design software, includes new versions of Designer, Architect, Landmark, Spotlight, Machine Design, Fundamentals, and RenderWorks.
A new engine provides enhanced 2D and 3D capabilities at speeds up to five times faster for modeling operations, improved 3D modeling, and optimized workflows. The software is powered by Parasolid®, the CAD/CAM/CAE modeling kernel from Siemens PLM Software. New interface functionality yields enhanced usability, including a pre-selection indication feature that provides intelligent feedback from the cursor. Used in conjunction with drawing tools, SmartCursor snapping allows users to draw with more precision. Spotlight, in particular, includes a new 2D symbol insertion mode that allows users to specify an exact point on a symbol when offsetting it and it supports angular and linear offsets for objects inserted in round walls.
Additional features in Spotlight include the ability to transfer attributes between design layer viewports; a duplicate array command; unfolding of developable NURBS surfaces (or CSG solids that represent developable surfaces) into a flattened 2D representation; automatic universe assignment; similar object creation; parametric straight and curved truss objects; and other enhancements to workflow, content, and rendering.