an option to activate a layer by selecting an object would be handy. i understand that is definitely not what one wants all the time, but often do i find myself working on different layers editing objects on either layer and having to switch layers constantly not to get confused and to keep stuff on the layer i am manipulating and often having to clean up in the heat of things, because i failed to switch layers before.
any thoughts?
Similar to this request would be the ability to set a default, current layer for layout details. When working in active details, I’m almost exclusively adding dimensions and rarely do I want these to appear in other details or model space. Therefore, if there was some sort of mechanism by which one could assign a default active layer per detail, which could be, by default, set to OFF in other details/model space, this would be a big time saver. As it is, I try to do as much dimensioning/annotating in layout space on top of inactive details but, as has been reported in the past, dimensioning perspective/isometric view details results in inaccuracies and is generally not user-friendly. So maybe that could be improved/addressed as well. I’ve also attempted to create scripts that produce the auto layer switching functionality I described above but, due to my limited programming skills and, what I believe is related to certain Mac specific limitations within programming environments, I’ve not had any luck.
Hi Kaleb -
You can use the SetDimensionLayer command to automatically move all dimensions to a layer that is hidden in model space.
-wim
Thanks Wim, I already utilize this functionality. It’s useful for keeping model space clear of dimensions. But, when it comes to dimensions unique to individual details, it doesn’t help much. I have a script that, when run, sends newly created detail dimensions to a unique, per detail sub-layer of the parent dimension layer (and creates this sub-layer of it doesn’t exist) but I either have to manually make that layer current each time I work within that detail or run the script every time after I add new dimensions. Plus I need to manually click that layer’s lightbulb to set it to be off in all other details. An automated, streamlined way to accomplish the above would have an immense, positive impact on my workflow.
Hi @encephalon
Rhino has a command for that check in the layers tab area, it’s
! _SetLayerToObject
Right Click the icon then select your object. It’s on the right click of the attached images icon.
RM
hi @3dsynergy i used to use that command quite regularly for a while but stopped for this specific purpose since it does not make the workflow any easier. If i dont follow that exact protocol each time the workflow gets interrupted and a clean up is inevitable.
There is only one command i know of in Mac that offers an option to select input layer or current layer, Offset. it might be that Rhino for Windows offers more commands but even that does not help and just adds to the general confusion.
Adobe, Affinity (though a bit different) work like that, once you select an object the layer gets automatically activated, all further and new processes are within that layer.
Since both options are useful, i would suggest an Auto Layer option next to Auto Cplane for instance.
Hi @encephalon
Yes most programs actually work this way.
I can see if you pick the wrong object then the layer gets set to that than you have to run the command over again and pick again.
I miss it sometimes in Rhino though many times it’s a hassle and gets in the way in other programs.
I too support an option or switch to activate the objects layer by picking.
This has been asked for many times over the years.
RM
