3.4 Integration of Specialist Programs

3.4.1 General Overview

VCmaster is not an isolated software solution. All external software applications can be seamlessly integrated into the software. Intelligent interfaces allow for trouble-free transfer of data created with specialist and/or CAD software. This results in immense benefits for compiling, modifying, reusing and managing documents.

The above mentioned functionality leads to a significant cost reduction, comparable to the launch of CAD-software.
All text entry is done directly in VCmaster, the implemented calculation feature renders the pocket calculator unnecessary. VCmaster enables the compilations of a complete project into a consistent layout. Information from other sources can still be created using the same software as before, but is then merged into a VCmaster- document.

This in only possible thanks to intelligent and efficient interfaces:

• t2W technology: t2W is installed as a printer driver. Similar to PDF, t2W directs the print output of all Windows programs to VCmaster. The technology can be used for  trouble-free transfer of all software outputs (see Chapter 3.5).
• BML interface: A XML-based interface has been included in VCmaster. Software developers specialized in structural engineering software use this interface (see Chapter 3.7.3).
• Integrating software: All programs can be directly integrated in the VCmaster menu and can be called up from there (see Chapter 3.7.1).
• OLE technology: Objects that have been created with other programs can be integrated using OLE technology. The precondition is the program being integrated must be OLE-compatible.

3.4.2 BML-Interface

Software using the BML-interface generates a data file, which is automatically transferred to VCmaster. Typical elements of a document like headline, paragraphs or graphics are transposed intelligently.

The transfer is started by selecting a specific option in the sending software application. For more information refer to the manual of the respective software.

BUTTON:

MENU:

Insert-Settings-Integrate Applications

3.4.3 Transfer via t2W-Interface

All transfers via the t2W-interface utilize the VCmaster printer driver, thus adopting exactly the same layout as for a print-out. Additionally information coming from the source program is intelligently linked to the VCmaster document.
The transfer is started by selecting a specific option in the sending software application.
For more information refer to the manual of the respective software.

The general method is explained in more detail in Chapter 3.5. It is recommend to create individual profiles for each software application. See Chapter 3.5.3. 

Documentation