Change the rendering of the model
2018i
Tekla Structures
Change the rendering of the model
You can set Tekla Structures to use the DirectX rendering engine instead of the default OpenGL-based rendering engine. Compared to the OpenGL rendering, the DirectX rendering improves the rendering quality and adds a subtle shading effect to Tekla Structures objects, making the 3D visualizations clearer and more defined.
The DirectX graphics performance is better on the recommended NVIDIA Geforce GTX graphics cards than with graphics cards that have a lower end or no graphics processing unit (GPU). For more information on the recommended graphics cards, see Tekla Structures 2018i Hardware Recommendations.
You can switch the DirectX rendering on or off in . The rendering setting is view specific, meaning that you can use the DirectX rendering or the OpenGL rendering in different views. If you switch between the rendering, you need to reopen the view to activate the rendering.
Note:
If you use Tekla Structures via remote connections, the DirectX rendering may not work as expected: parts that you have created may not show in the model, or the model is working slowly. If you experience such problems, switch the DirectX rendering off.
Use the following advanced options to fine-tune the DirectX rendering:
DirectX rendering examples
Visualization of distance
The visualization of the distances in the DirectX rendering uses subtle shadows and ambient occlusion. This gives a better understanding of the structure and distances.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Depth accuracy
The accuracy in depth buffer is improved in the DirectX rendering so that when the model is zoomed, parts are not shown through other parts' faces as often as previously.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Dynamic states
In dynamic states, such as in selection and in preselection highlight, the selection is clearer and the highlight is less intrusive when the DirectX rendering is used.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Antialiasing for higher fidelity
In the DirectX rendering the image quality is by default better than in the OpenGL rendering, with less flickering.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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High fidelity edge line
In the DirectX rendering, there are no flickering zigzag lines but continuous, smooth edges.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Accurate reinforcing bars
Reinforcing bars have edge lines in the DirectX rendering. When you zoom in, the reinforcing bars are shown as round.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Automatic edge lines for intersecting material in transparent view
In the DirectX rendering, you can see where there are intersecting materials in the model.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Accuracy and clarity on details
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Automatic hatching for overlapping surfaces on same plane
You can detect duplicate objects or any overlapping parts in the DirectX rendering.
