How to Detail Elements of an Imported Model Using 3D Documents in Archicad?

When you need to document a model imported from an IFC file in Archicad, a practical way to do this is to isolate it in 3D, generate several 3D Documents and then place them on a layout.

This workflow lets you obtain a clear representation of the element, create a front view to dimension it correctly and prepare a final presentation with several views of the same component.

Step 1 - Import the file and locate the element

Open the project in Archicad and import the corresponding file. Then, go to the 3D view to locate the element you want to detail.

1. Import the IFC file into the model.
2. Go to the 3D view.

3. Identify the element you want to document (for example, by marking it in red).

   

Step 2 - Save a first view as a 3D Document

With the element already located within the model, save the current view as a 3D Document.

1. Keep the 3D view of the model visible.
2. Save the view as a 3D Document.

Step 3 - Isolate the element in 3D

To work with only the piece you're interested in, select it again and use the Show Selection option.

1. Select the element again in the 3D view.
2. Right-click on the element.

3. Select Show Selection.

   

4. Save this new isolated view as another 3D Document.

Note: The Show Selection option temporarily hides the rest of the model and leaves only the selected element visible, which makes it easier to produce a much cleaner view.

Step 4 - Set up a front axonometric perspective

Once the element is isolated, you can adjust the projection to get a front view suited for the detail.

1. In the Navigator, activate Axonometric Perspective.

   

2. Right-click on the view and select Projection Type.
3. Choose Side View.

4. In the Azimuth field, enter the angle needed to view the element from the front.

   

5. Save this configuration as a new 3D Document.

Note: The Azimuth value will depend on the element's orientation. If the piece isn't shown exactly front-on, try different angles until you get a clean view that's easy to dimension.

Step 5 - Add dimensions and annotations to the detail

With the front view now defined, you can document the element directly in the 3D Document.

1. Open the 3D Document with the front-facing orientation.
2. Add the necessary dimensions.

3. Insert text, labels or notes as needed to show the required information.

   

4. Save the 3D Documents as Views.

Step 6 - Place the views on the layout

Finally, place the saved views on a layout to compose the final presentation of the detail.

1. Go to the Layout.
2. Drag the saved views onto the layout.

3. Arrange the composition with the general view, the isolated view and the dimensioned front view.

   

Result

With this workflow you will be able to:

• Isolate an element imported from IFC within the model.
• Generate several useful views using 3D Documents.
• Obtain a front view suited for dimensioning and annotation.
• Prepare a final layout with several views of the element.