Autodesk LIGHTSCAPE, Manual

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Batch Processing Utilities B
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Lightscape
About Batch Files
As you become more familiar with Lightscape, you may find it efficient to use batch processing utilities to
improve your productivity.
There are a number of such utilities that are included with Lightscape. Using these utilities in batch files, you can
set up a series of procedures that automatically run over an extended period of time. You do not need to be
present while batch files run, so you can do other things while the system processes your files.
You can also use Lightscape to distribute batch processing over a network of computers, further improving your
productivity. The following pages provide some common examples of batch files that are used with Lightscape.
Note: Throughout this appendix, some command line examples extend past the width of the page. These
commands are presented in two or more consecutive lines but should be treated as single-line commands.
Creating Batch Files
A batch file is an ASCII text file that you create in a text editor, such as Notepad and save with a .bat file extension.
These files contain a series of executable commands and, if necessary, command options. When running a batch
file, each command is executed sequentially until all commands have been executed.
The purpose of a batch file is to streamline your workflow by helping you avoid typing in a command, such as a
ray tracing operation from one view, waiting for the command to execute, typing another ray tracing operation
from another view, then waiting, and so on.
Using a batch file, you can enter all the different commands, then run them at a convenient time (overnight, for
example).
To create a batch file for use in Lightscape:
1.
Open a text editor, such as Notepad.
2.
Type a command as a line of text, then press Enter.
3.
Repeat step #2 for each required command to be created in sequence.
4. When you have finished typing commands, save the file with a .bat file extension. To do this, enter the file-
name followed by:
.bat
5.
To execute the commands in your batch file, double-click the file in Windows Explorer, or run the batch file
from a DOS command line.
file Accepts either .ls or .lp files.
Option: Extension: Description: