Working with VCL Linework

Siteworks supports linework contained within VCL design files, allowing users to view, select, and stake design features directly from the map.

All valid linework stored in the VCL file is available regardless of which surface is currently selected as the active surface.

Supported VCL Line Types

Siteworks displays the following line types from a VCL design:

• Lines
• Polylines
• Linestrings

All supported linework is displayed in the map view and remains available even when different surfaces are selected within the same VCL design.

Note: Line visibility is independent of the active surface selection. All valid linework in the VCL file remains available for viewing and selection.

Using VCL Linework

VCL linework can be selected and used in several Siteworks workflows, including:

Stakeout

Select design lines directly from the map for line stakeout operations.

COGO

Use VCL linework within COGO calculations and design-related workflows.

Reference Lines

Select VCL linework as a reference line for alignment-based measurements and stakeout tasks.

Accessing Additional Options

Tap and hold on a line in the map view to open the shortcut menu.

The menu provides similar functionality to the tap-and-hold options available when working with DXF and DWG design linework.

Depending on the selected workflow, options may include:

• Stakeout
• Set as Reference Line
• View Information
• Design-related functions

Controlling Line Visibility

Linework visibility can be managed in two ways.

Show or Hide All Design Linework

Use the Map Options > Design tab to display or hide design linework.

Control Visibility by Layer

Individual layers can be turned on or off to control which design elements are displayed on the map.

This is useful for:

• Reducing map clutter
• Focusing on specific design components
• Simplifying stakeout selection

Line Names

If a VCL line has a defined name, that name is displayed throughout Siteworks.

Examples:

• Boundary Line
• Kerb Alignment
• Drainage Centreline

Named linework is easier to identify during stakeout and design review.

Unnamed Linework

If a line does not contain a defined name, Siteworks assigns the generic name:

Unnamed CAD

This behaviour is the same as when working with unnamed linework in DXF or DWG files.

Layer Information

When you tap and hold a VCL line, the line's layer name is displayed in the title bar of the shortcut menu.

This makes it easier to:

• Identify the source layer
• Confirm you have selected the correct design object
• Troubleshoot design visibility settings

Best Practices

✅ Use meaningful names for important design linework before exporting the VCL file.
✅ Organise design elements into layers to simplify visibility management.
✅ Turn off unnecessary layers when staking out complex designs.
✅ Use the layer name displayed in the shortcut menu to confirm you have selected the correct feature.
✅ Keep design linework organised to reduce the chance of selecting the wrong object in the field.

Key Points

• Siteworks supports lines, polylines, and linestrings from VCL designs.
• All valid linework is displayed regardless of the active surface.
• VCL linework can be used for Stakeout, COGO, and Reference Line workflows.
• Line visibility can be controlled through Map Options > Design or by individual layers.
• Named linework displays its assigned name.
• Unnamed linework displays as "Unnamed CAD".
• The line's layer name is shown in the tap-and-hold menu for easy identification.