MA Lighting and BIM Vectorworks update GDTF format

The version 1.2 of the format GDTF includes changes such as SVG and .gITF support, nonlinear behavior and subphysical attributes, and non-DMX-based control protocols.

The founders of the standard to describe the hierarchical structure, logic and controls of any type of equipment in the entertainment industry, MA Lighting and BIM Vectorworks, reveal new updates for GDTF, a project that was presented last year (more information at DAV).

With the update of the standard DIN SPEC 15800:2021, the GDTF system advances in its career to become a must, not only in the work of designers, but of the entire entertainment industry. This is revealed by Biplab Sarkar, CEO of Vectorworks, who sees this recognition as proof of the evolution and success of this GDTF format. In the words of Michael Bahr, DIN Project Manager, the DIN SPEC update 15800:2021 will make the GDTF format easier to use and more scalable for the future.

Since GDTF was officially released as a publicly available specification for the entertainment industry worldwide in June 2020, the original creators of the file format have been joined by manufacturers and users across the industry to ensure that it remains the standard that benefits end users.

Open communication, the treatment of feedback and continuous improvement efforts have led to the latest version of the file format, GDTF 1.2. This release includes changes that address previous criticisms of the standard and key improvements, as compatibility with SVG and .gITF, nonlinear behavior and subphysical attributes (SubPhysicalAttributes), and non-based control protocols DMX.

GDTF 1.2 includes SVG support, to define the 2D representation, and .gITF, to define the 3D representation. this allows for a better graphical representation of gdtf objects. Additional support for these types of objects makes GDTF truly universal, not just for accessories, but for all kinds of objects that are used within an event.

Nonlinear behavior and SubPhysicalAttributes allow designers a more accurate representation of feature behaviors in rendering. In addition, the functions of channels moving in pulse or strobes can now be described more accurately.

GDTF 1.2 provides support for non-DMX-based control protocols, as CSO, demonstrating the ability of the file format to support DMX and others, providing design and production professionals with more flexibility and control.

The version 1.2 GDTF also supports more object types, as trusses, Lasers, chain motors and power distributors, with new geometry types.

“El grupo GDTF mantiene un fuerte compromiso con el desarrollo del formato utilizando fuentes abiertas, while demonstrating its responsiveness to criticism and requests for format improvement. In short, GDTF y MVR están hechos por la industria para la industria”, explains Gerhard Krude, CEO of MA Lighting Technology.

Stonex, as a distributor of MA Lighting and Vectorworks in Spain, supports and is part of this standardization process that will benefit and revolutionize the entire entertainment industry.

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