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How to Map Element Attributes Between Archicad and DXF/DWG Files? DXF/DWG as a Mapping Template

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When collaborating between Archicad and CAD programs via DXF/DWG files, it's essential to make sure the elements' attributes are correctly mapped between the programs for successful collaboration.

The mapping process can be long, tedious and prone to errors due to differences in how each program handles design elements, as well as the specific requirements of each project or collaborator. To explore these aspects further, we recommend reviewing the following articles:

This article aims to show you how to speed up the mapping process using a DXF/DWG file as a template, letting you reduce time, minimise errors, and make the process more efficient.

Why use a DXF/DWG file as a mapping template?

One of the most efficient ways to set up attribute mapping between Archicad and CAD programs is to use an existing DXF/DWG file as a template. This method lets you import attributes directly from the DXF/DWG file, making the setup easier and ensuring consistency with the project's standards.

Steps to use a DXF/DWG file as a mapping template

  1. Prepare the template DXF/DWG file
    Make sure the file contains:
    1. All the Layers needed for the project, preferably with their Colours and Pens defined.
    2. At least one CAD element per layer, with its Line Type, Colour, and Scale defined.
    3. All the Fills (Hatches) needed, with Type, Colour and Scale configured.
  2. Go to: File > Interoperability > DXF-DWG > DXF-DWG Translation Setup.
  3. Select the DXF-DWG translator configuration that most closely matches your needs and click Duplicate.


  4. In the Definitions tab, select Browse for DXF-DWG File (which will act as the template file), and load a template DWG file that contains the attributes you want to map.



  5. Repeat this process for each DXF-DWG Translator you need to create.
  6. Save the configuration by clicking Save Settings & Close.

Tips:

  1. Don't edit the original DXF-DWG Translator settings that come by default with the Archicad installation.
  2. Create duplicates of the customised DXF-DWG Translator settings until you achieve the desired configuration.
  3. Document your configurations to make them easier to reuse in future projects.

Advantages of this approach

Using a DXF/DWG file as a mapping template offers multiple benefits:

  • Activates the drop-down menus with attributes from the DXF/DWG file.
  • Ensures exported files comply with the project's standards.
  • Significantly reduces setup time and the margin for human error.

This method aligns with the best practices described in the articles mentioned above and can become a key tool for improving your workflow in collaborative projects.

By following these steps and applying these tips, you can set up the mapping of Layers between your Archicad project and DXF-DWG files (imported or exported) with your project collaborators, as described in the following articles:

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