Change the rendering mode for model views
Tekla Structures rendering can use either DirectX or OpenGL technology. To improve the rendering quality, you can set Tekla Structures to use the DirectX rendering engine instead of the default OpenGL-based rendering engine. The DirectX rendering adds a subtle shading effect to Tekla Structures objects, making the 3D visualizations clearer and more defined.
DirectX rendering engine
The DirectX rendering mode is better optimized for modern graphics cards, and the 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 graphics cards, see Tekla Structures 2020 hardware recommendations.
To switch the DirectX rendering on or off, go to . The rendering setting is model view specific, meaning that you can use the DirectX rendering or the OpenGL rendering in different model views. If you switch between the rendering options, you need to reopen the model view to activate the rendering option.
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
In DirectX rendered model views, the visualization of the distances uses subtle shadows and ambient occlusion. This gives a better understanding of the structure and distances.
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Depth accuracy
In DirectX rendered model views, the accuracy in depth buffer is improved so that when the model is zoomed, parts are not shown through other parts' faces as often as previously.
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Dynamic states
In DirectX rendered model views, in dynamic states, such as in selection and in preselection highlight, the selection is clearer and the highlight is less intrusive.
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Antialiasing for higher fidelity
In DirectX rendered model views, the image quality is by default better than in OpenGL rendered model view, with less flickering.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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High fidelity edge line
In DirectX rendered model views, there are no flickering zigzag lines but continuous, smooth edges.
| DirectX | OpenGL |
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Accurate reinforcing bars
In DirectX rendered model views, reinforcing bars have edge lines. 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 DirectX rendered model views, 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
In DirectX rendered model views, you can detect duplicate objects or any overlapping parts.
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Dashed hidden lines
In DirectX rendered model views, the part edge lines that are hidden behind another part are shown as dashed lines in all transparent views (Ctrl+1, 2, 3, or 5 for parts and Shift+1, 2, 3, or 5 for components).
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