Every VectorWorks drawing has a ground plane and a working plane. The ground plane provides a constant visual and logical reference and is fixed in relation to the objects in the drawing. In an architectural sense, the ground plane is like the ground level of a building. In most cases, architects use this plane as the basis for their drawings. Therefore, the location of VectorWorks’ working plane defaults to that of the ground plane. However, in other disciplines, or in certain circumstances, the orientation of the working plane needs to change. The working plane can be moved, aligned to different objects or surfaces, and rotated, unlike the ground plane, which remains constant at the internal drawing center.
Every object created in VectorWorks is placed in relation to the ground plane, whether it is placed directly on that plane or placed above or below it. The working plane helps to easily create and position objects in 3D space. It allows you to draw while in an isometric view and position objects exactly where they are needed. When changing the location of the working plane, the ground plane remains displayed, providing a constant frame of reference while adjusting the working plane.
For example, for a drawing of a complex machine, with numerous gears, cams, rollers, and other parts that intersect on multiple planes, the working plane can be changed to different locations and angles in relation to the ground plane. Creating or locating objects according to the working plane allows highly accurate positioning of the objects in 3D space.
In addition, some tools require a vector or plane. The 3D viewing tools can use the working plane to define their center and/or axis of rotation, while the Mirror tool mirrors the selected 3D objects across the working plane. The location of 3D tools in 3D space is taken from the point on the working plane directly behind the pointer, or from a snap point if they are snapped to an object.