Mask Designer Tools

If If you wish to re-edit an already created mask you can select it from this list. Be aware that this only effects the designer canvas. If program already has a mask in place this will not change at first. However, when exiting the designer, you will be asked then if you want it to replace current mask.

Removes the existing mask if one has been previously assigned.

One option is to make a mask utilizing a PNG image file. The mask is generated by creating an outline around all its opaque areas. The level of transparency we inevitably see in the final content after the mask is applied is determined by any and all variations in opacity levels within the image, we use to make the mask. This means the only file type we can use are ones that support transparency such as PNG or GIF.

 

Clicking reveals a sub menu

Add New opens a file browser. When one is selected it will first be copied into the Masks sub folder, (Folder is automatically created and placed under the event show folder.) then the image will be placed onto the design canvas.

 

The reminder lists any available image files currently saved in the Masks folder.

 

 

Use to select how an Image should be stretched to fill the destination rectangle.

None: The content preserves its original size.

Fill: The content is resized to fill the destination dimensions. The aspect ratio is not preserved.

Uniform: The content is resized to fit in the destination dimensions while it preserves its native aspect ratio.

Uniform Fill: The content is resized to fill the destination dimensions while it preserves its native aspect ratio. If the aspect ratio of the destination rectangle differs from the source, the source content is clipped to fit in the destination dimensions.

 

Use to force the containing rectangle to fill the entire space.

This is the designers most powerful tools. When selected, it starts with a simple rectangle with pick points at its four corners.

To manipulate, click down on a point and drag it to where you need it. You can add additional adjustment points by simply left clicking anywhere along the line between points. There is no limit to how many points you can add.

Right click on any point to reveal a popup menu with two options either to remove the and the other allows us to add a smooth radius at the corner point.

 

Use when only a simple four-sided rectangle is all that is needed. Surrounding the frame are 9 pick points you can click and drag to resize it. Click and drag from anywhere inside the shape to adjust its position.

 

Like the rectangle, if you only require a simple circle or oval then chose this. Manipulate it the same as you would the rectangle.

 

This option toggles between whether transparency effect of the mask is inside our shape or the remaining area outside of it.

 

Use this to effectively soften the all of the mask’s edges.

 

Use to set to the fill opacity of the shape or image while designing. Makes easier to not completely obscure the area underneath that is being traced.

 

This setting doesn’t affect the fill area of the finished mask. If the mask is a basic geometric shape it will always be filled with a solid white.

 

NOTE: If the mask is created using an Image file, along with the fully transparent areas creating a complete cut, any other areas within the image that are semi-transparent will cause masked asset to be semi-transparent in those area as well.   

Select the desired grid density in pixels. .

Resets the geometry back to the default settings (e.g., The same dimensions as when shape or image was first inserted onto the canvas.)

To help visually see the mask at work click Test Mask. This will temporarily hide the designer grid as well as all point elements and apply the worked mask to the asset or PGM space.'

 

Use Edit Mask to bring back the designer and resume work.

Save: Save worked mask as a raw file. All raw mask files are kept in a sub folder named Raw under the event’s Mask folder. 

 

Export Current Mask: This function transforms the raw mask into its own PNG image file. The file can then be imported into other switching devices and/or software that supports using opacity masks. Saved file is stored in the event’s Masks folder.