Viktor Velicko is the founder of W-Tools, producer of the LWCAD suite of plug-ins for LightWave 3D. Recently updated to version 1.5, and with version 2.0 coming soon, LWCAD is targeted at artists working in architecture and other areas of inorganic modeling with a high degree of precision and detail. NewTek recently sat down with Viktor to learn more about these very popular modeling tools and how they came about.
Can you give us a brief background about yourself and your company?
W-Tools is a single person company founded in December 2003. The primary goal of W-Tools is to develop plug-ins for LightWave. At this moment I am the only person working full-time at W-Tools. The second person is my friend and adviser Ayman M. El-Khatib. I also have some external helpers for part-time jobs and a couple of beta testers.
Can you tell us a little bit about LWCAD tools?
LWCAD is a collection of tools for architectural and precision inorganic modeling. It is mainly a collection of curve-based 2D and modify tools with snapping abilities.
Full info about LWCAD tools can be found at http://www.wtools3d.com/index.php?menu=full&strana=curve.
Where did the idea for LWCAD tools come from?
My motivation came from the top CAD systems, like AutoCad, Rhino, ProEngineer, etc..
Is this your first set of tools that you've made public?
My first public plug-in for LightWave was Cap Hole Studio. It was a package of tools for correcting polygon errors and closing arbitrary holes in geometry. With version 1.5, this plug-in is now bundled with LWCAD.
When did you first start using LightWave?
I saw it for the first time during my study stay at the Technical University in Prague. It was installed on the computer in the multimedia room. After that first experience, I was amazed with the world of 3D. And, because I am a programmer in the first place, my next logical step was to create plug-ins for it.
The LWCAD tools seem to be a perfect collection for anyone creating architecture. DO you think artists doing other types of work could benefit from these tools?
LWCAD tools are tools for creating any inorganic models, not just architecture. Every LightWave user will find it useful in common modeling tasks.
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Snap Modify |
Did you find it easy developing tools to work with LightWave?
It depends on the programmer’s skills. For advanced programmers, I don’t see any problem in creating any tool for LightWave.
What is the current version of LWCAD?
LWCAD version 1.5 is available currently. The next update, version 2, should be released in Spring 2006. LWCAD 2 will definitely be a complete 2D solution. The major change in LWCAD version 2 is the replacement of the native LightWave curves system with NURBS curves. With the new curves, there is also a new object snap engine. You can now use all known standard CAD snapping methods.
Are there any training materials that help a user get up and going for LWCAD?
At this moment, there are two brief tutorials for LWCAD, and full online documentation for each tool. You can find all these materials on the W-Tools website.
Engraver
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What are the top 3 most powerful tools in LWCAD in your opinion?
Curve-to-Poly, Offset Tool, and Engraver.
Any plans for future tools?
Official information about the next LWCAD, version 2, was released just recently. You can read about it at http://www.wtools3d.com/index.php?strana=lwcad2.
Any suggestions for someone wanting to develop tools for LightWave?
I would recommend taking a look at the developer group on Yahoo. Beginners can find a lot of useful information about using the LightWave SDK there. |
Where can we find more information about LWCAD tools?
All information about LWCAD tools can be found on the W-Tools website at http://www.wtools3d.com. For additional information please feel free to contact us at support@wtools3d.com. I will be a happy to answer any of your questions.
Thanks very much for taking the time to talk to us, Viktor!
To learn more about W-Tools and LWCAD, please visit their official site at http://www.wtools3d.com.
