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How to Map Element Attributes Between Archicad and DXF/DWG Files?
Reading time: 5 min.
When collaborating between Archicad and CAD programs using DXF/DWG files, it is essential to go through a process of checking that elements are correctly mapped between the different programs, for the following reasons:
- Archicad and CAD programs handle things in different ways.
- Ensuring compliance with the information-exchange standards and requirements between project participants.
- Avoiding possible loss or misinterpretation of project data.
This process (and the initial checks in particular) does not usually give the desired result on its own, so as a user you should create or modify the attribute-mapping settings between Archicad and the DXF/DWG files according to the needs of the project and/or your collaborators.
This article aims to:
- Point out the most important aspects of the process of mapping elements between Archicad and CAD programs.
- Make the process of configuring element mapping faster, easier and more effective.
- Provide you with best-practice tips based on our experience.
But before continuing with this article, we recommend reviewing the following resources to better understand the context and the tools available:
- New in Archicad: Layers - Management and Workflow Improvements Within Archicad – My SIMBIM Centre
- New in Archicad: What You Need to Understand About the Pen Table – My SIMBIM Centre
Below, we explain step by step how to carry out this mapping effectively:
1. Using a DXF-DWG file as a mapping template (optional)
The most efficient way to configure element mapping between Archicad and CAD programs is to use an existing (or previously pre-configured) DXF/DWG file as a template, as described in the following article:
- How to Map Element Attributes Between Archicad and DXF/DWG Files? DXF/DWG as a Mapping Template – My SIMBIM Centre
If you are unable to provide a DXF/DWG file as a template, you can move on to the next step.
Although this step is optional, it is highly recommended, since it enables drop-down menus within the DXF-DWG Translator settings, with the desired configuration for the various attributes taken directly from the DWG file loaded as a template.
2. Layer Considerations
Layers are essential for organising project information both in Archicad and in CAD programs, so it is essential that you follow the guidance in the following article for mapping Layers:
Tip: Keeping a consistent naming convention makes it easier to collaborate with other professionals who use AutoCAD.
3. Pen and Colour Mapping
To map the Pens and Colours of Archicad elements to those of the DXF-DWG files:
Tip: Repeat this process for each pen you need to convert.
4. Line Type Mapping
To map the Line Types of Archicad elements to those of the DXF-DWG files:
Tip: Repeat this process for each pen you need to convert.
5. Fill Mapping
To map the Fills of Archicad elements to those of the DXF-DWG files:
Tip: Repeat this process for each pen you need to convert.
6. Font Style Mapping
To map Archicad’s text fonts to those of the DXF-DWG files, follow the guidance in:
7. Best practices
- Set project standards: Define a base translator for all your projects or clients.
- Verify before sending: Open the exported DXF/DWG file in a CAD program or a viewer to check that the attributes have been mapped correctly.
- Document your translators: Include notes or descriptive names for each configuration.
- Avoid generic names: Use layer, fill and style names that reflect their function.
- Share configurations: Export and distribute the translators among team members to maintain consistency.
8. Saving and reusing translators
Once the mapping is configured:
- Save the translator as a custom template.
- Use it for future exports or imports to maintain consistency.
The following article provides more detailed information on:
Conclusion
Correctly mapping attributes between Archicad and DXF/DWG ensures smooth interoperability and avoids graphical misinterpretation errors. Using a DXF/DWG file as a template and carefully configuring each attribute is key to achieving professional, accurate results.