This video tip focuses on a topic that should be of interest to many ArchiCAD users. In this demonstration, I show how to bring in 2D drawings (in this case, DWG files) as a tracing reference to make it easy and fast to create an accurate 3D model. This approach can be used for modeling existing buildings from CAD files, or taking a design from 2D CAD into a 3D model quickly for presentations or model coordination.
There are two versions of this presentation now available: the original 90 minute one that shows every step along the way, and a 44 minute excerpted version that leaves out some less essential details as well as much of the repetitive drawing and data entry. I still plan to create a shorter piece that will be more conceptual, and focus on the principles and the most important steps.
There is a timeline control strip for this video, so you can jump to any point you wish, or replay sections at will. You can switch between the 90 minute and 44 minute versions by clicking on the link (below right).
You may download the 90 minute version with this link (right-click and choose Save Link As or Save Target As):
ArchiCAD Tutorial | How to Trace 2D Drawings to Create Your Model
Please scroll down below the video to see an outline of the main steps as well as additional notes.
(CLICK PLAY BUTTON TO VIEW 90 MINUTE VERSION)
Click HERE to switch to 44 Minute Version
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This entire process was done in real time, in 90 minutes!
To be frank, the first time I did this it took between 3 and 4 hours, because I had to become familiar with the project and how the DWGs were organized. The second time it took about 2 to 2 1/2 hours, and then I started over and recorded the process the third time in 90 minutes from start to finish.
At some point I will create a shorter, more conceptual explanation video and write an article that documents and explains the process.
I look forward to your comments and feedback.
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