Hi @dfoxPQ2S9,
The current 2D workflow could be improved, and it's understandable that we're encountering some challenges. We aim to make the process smoother, so your patience and feedback are greatly appreciated! However, we don't have a specific timeline for when these issues and workflow improvements will be implemented from a technical standpoint. On your specific questions:
Q1: DXF is only allowed to be placed flat on the topography
A: Correct, all lines are projected to be shown on the terrain, flat or steep. Forma currently does not apply the Y-values to the lines, which is currently blocking your workflow from working. If you are blocked from making extrusions in your CAD software, then a workaround could be to use "hatches, fills, or surfaces" in your CAD file. Once imported as a DXF, this will be read as a surface inside Forma and can be used with the "Trace existing shape" option when drawing a Basic building (B) or a Constraint (C). It might not be your ideal workflow, but it could save you a significant amount of time and maintain accuracy when trying to trace things inside Forma. There might be different kinds of "hatches, fills, or surfaces" that work depending on the software you are coming from. Hatches created from Rhino works (an example can be seen in Q4). I have not tried it from AutoCAD or MicroStation.
Q2: The graphic presentation of lines is unusable for presentations, and can we edit those?
A: I am sorry that this is not supported and you find it unusable. The short answer is: No, it is not possible to edit the linework inside Forma. We currently have only three types of lines inside Forma. As Lines (solid lines, fixed width), Roads (solid line, adjustable width in 0.5m increments), or as Rail (dashed lines, fixed width). So I would not use linework as part of your presentation as of now, unless you are able to do the workaround that I suggest in the next paragraph or if you upload an image to Forma Board, and use it more as an image underlay.
Q3: Can we retain the layers as in the original drawing?
A: Unfortunately, this is not possible today with the current layer logic that is being used. The Forma layers contain some logic for auto-placing the geometry that has been applied, and do not open for custom layers as of today.
Potential workaround: I have not tested this flow myself, but in theory, it should be possible to sync your file with ArcGIS by ESRI and then display those layers via our integration with them. This would also solve your Q2, but not the Z-axis, as that information is also projected on the terrain surface.
Q4: The ability to bring a geolocated DXF
A: This is possible today. You need to specify the coordinate system to be used, as well as the X/East & Y/North coordinates. The file will then fall into place without the need for manual (error-prone) placement.
Again, I apologize that this 2D workflow lacks vital features for your workflow, and I hope these answers can somewhat help you.
