PLUG-INS FOR ARCHICAD

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ArchiTerraArchiCAD Plug-in for Terrain ModellingA common problem faced by ArchiCAD users is the creation and manage-ment of 3D terrain models. The ArchiTerra Plug-in was developed to resolvethis problem.To create a realistic setting, designers often need to contextualise theirprojects within certain surroundings. This allows the environmental impact ofthe project to be monitored throughout the planning phase. The need forsuch functionality may also arise for city planning or landscaping purposes,requiring the creation of more or less vast 3D terrain models.

The package includes:

the ArchiTerra Add-on,which adds the necessaryterrain modelling com-mands to ArchiCAD;

the ArchiTerra 20.LIBlibrary, which contains aset of simple, intelligentobjects that can be usedas terrain modelling tools;

the ArchiTerra exteriorslibrary, which provides acollection of 3D parame-tric elements (trees, gar-den furniture, externallight sources, etc.) that

can be used to create realistic environ-ments within the terrain models develo-ped with ArchiTerra.

Work methodWith the interactive mode, the user defi-nes the information relative to themorphology of the terrain directly on the

Following the correct installation ofArchiTerra, ArchiCAD users are presen-ted with a new Tool Palette that allowsthe simple and rapid creation of 3D ter-rain models that are fully compatiblewith ArchiCAD. ArchiTerra allows topo-graphic data to be imported directlyinto the ArchiCAD Worksheet from textfiles (lists of points) or DXF files, or new

terrain can be created using points, con-straints, contour lines and land model-ling tools to define the informationnecessary for constructing the 3Dmodel.ArchiTerra is an indispensable tool forArchiCAD users who need to managesite modelling or create complex terrainfeatures.

ArchiCAD worksheet (perhaps using ascanned in site plan as a guide). Usingthis method, the operator manually entersthe data that describes the terrain. Thetypes of information that can be used todefine the terrains attributes includeTopographic points, Constraints andContour lines.

Topographic points: points that definethe topography of the terrain are ente-red using the mouse and require thefollowing information: Coordinates,Code/Description

Constraints: constraints force triangula-tion by joining" two point accordingto user-defined specifications, allowinga sequence of points to be defined asan obstacle.

Contour lines: contour lines are drawnusing the tools provided by ArchiCAD(Polylines, Arcs and Splines). The basicidea is to first draw the course of thecontour lines using one of the above-mentioned tools. These graphical primi-

tives are then converted into Points andConstraints.

With import mode, ArchiTerra allowsArchiCAD users to read information direc-tly from lists of points (TXT format) or DXFdrawings. Using this mode, ArchiTerrahandles the automatic positioning ofpoints, contour lines and constraintsbased on the specifications read in fromthe imported files.Once the 3D Mesh has been generatedby ArchiTerra, the contour lines can becalculated (primary and secondary) andthe terrain can be modelled using level-ling, basins, streets and walls of the desi-red shape and size.Users can supply digging and embank-ment angles and can calculate the surfa-ces, perimeters and volumes of the areasof land being modelled.When the information entered (usingeither interactive or import mode) is pro-cessed, a 3D Mesh is generated that canbe edited and modified by the user as

desired using the standard ArchiCADfunctions. ArchiTerra resolves problemsrelated to modelling and managing ter-rain simply and efficiently within theArchiCAD application, eliminating theuse of other programs and maintainingthe ArchiCAD work philosophy users arefamiliar with.

ArchiStairArchiCAD Plug-in for Creating Custom StairsArchiStair is an ArchiCAD extension that allows stairs to be created evenwhen the design constraints of the new project or remodel prohibit themfrom having a regular shape.With its simple and rapid graphical interface, ArchiStair allows users tocreate stairs with treads and landings that have customised, creative shapes.

Work methodArchiStair is easy and fun to use. To begin, you can either select one ofthe predefined stair types displayed inthe main dialog window or use 2dArchiCAD elements to draw the shapeyou desire. Editable Hotspots allow treads and lan-dings to be graphically modified both inthe Floor Plan Window and in the 3DWindow by simply selecting a nodeand dragging it to the desired position.

The treads of the stair can becurved and the risers can beeither standard or angled. All other aspects of the stairare editable and customisa-ble. Lets start with the han-drails. The shape of the han-drails and handrail ends canbe chosen, as can the num-ber and shape of the posts,panels and newels. Even custom objects can be

used as elements. For thepanels, both the materialand thickness can be modi-fied.Users can add finishing tou-ches such as skirting boardsand stringers, which are alsocustomisable both in terms ofmaterial and measurements.To facilitate 3D visualisation,supporting walls can be pla-ced under the stair, whichcan be edited for thicknessand material. You can evencustomise the 2D appearan-ce of the stair and modify

the scale with which it is viewed in theArchiCAD worksheet.A complete application, ArchiStairallows you to cut the opening in theslab over the stair automatically. And, as a special feature, the image ofa person can be positioned in theSection Window or 3D Window, provi-ding a means of controlling the height

and comfort of the stair.The settings of the stairs created can besaved and used again later to create anew stair.

ArchiForma/Visualise ArchiFormaPalette, which is added to the standardArchiCAD menus during installation.All commands and functions on theArchiForma Palette are immediatelyavailable and may be used both on the

Floor Plan worksheet aswell as in the ArchiCAD3D Window.The ArchiForma Paletteis divided into fourmain sections that con-tain logical groupingsof the different types ofcommands and func-tions required for crea-ting or modifyingobjects. These includesimple 3D primitives,3D forms generatedfrom 2D outlines (grou-ps of lines, arcs, linesand arcs, fills), editingfunctions (holes, cutting,rotating) and miscella-neous tools, whichinclude instruments for

editing elements, saving and generalediting.The graphic interface allows quick andsimple editing of even the most complex

ArchiFormaArchiCAD Plug-In for Object CreationArchiForma is an extension that uses API (Application ProgrammingInterface) technology to add new functionality to ArchiCAD.The Plug-in was designed and developed to give ArchiCAD users completefreedom in creating special shapes without having to use GDL scripting.Designers often need to use complex shapes when drawing 3D representa-tions of architectural details, decorative objects, doors and windows orother solids or surfaces that are difficult to create with the basic primitivesavailable in the ArchiCAD Toolbox. ArchiForma provides a new series of graphical primitives, commands andfunctions designed specifically to solve this problem, allowing users the free-dom necessary for customising their projects and adding details as desired.

Work methodUsing ArchiForma is just like using anyother simple ArchiCAD function. Youwont even realise youre using a Plug-in.ArchiForma can be activated at anymoment by selecting the command

forms, such as extrusions, tubing or surfa-ces. With the hole, cutting plane androtate commands, even the most minutedetails can be sculpted to get the desiredshape.The objects created with ArchiForma,such as doors and windows, can besaved as library parts and used again infuture projects. They can also be editedany time modifications are necessary andsaved again as new Objects.

The following example shows how easy itis to work with ArchiForma. It provides astep by step description of the operationsrequired for creating a translational surfa-ce.

1) Create a Section/Elevation on the FloorPlan and open the associated window.Select the 3D Polyline tool from theArchiForma Palette and design the first pro-file.

2) On the last double-click, ArchiForma reacti-vates the Floor Plan Window for the polyli-ne to be inserted.

3) Reopen the Section/Elevation Window andcreate another 3D polyline to delineate thesecond side of the area to be covered.

4) Position the second polyline on the FloorPlan.

5) Select both polylines and activate theTranslational Surface tool from theArchiForma Palette.

6) In just a few seconds, ArchiForma genera-tes the surface by extruding one profilealong the path defined by the other.

ArchiRulerArchiCAD Plug-in for 2D Drawing

ArchiRuler is a highly useful 2Ddrawing application that allows quickand easy management of the two-dimensional tools needed to createdesign details and working drawingsfor the building site. It satisfies therequirement often faced by designersof completing and refining their 3Dmodels with technical and descriptiveelements.

Work methodArchiRuler adds two extra palettes to theArchiCAD working environment. Thesecontain 2D tools that are not provided byArchiCAD and a set of snaps located atgeometrically significant points.

ArchiRulers main tool palette is dyna-mic; in other words, the commandsdisplayed in the second column changedepending on the tool selected in thefirst column.The first four tools: lines, guidelines,polylines and arcs/circles, form thebasis of 2D drawings. ArchiRuler provi-des various methods for drawing theseelements, all of which are easy to useand can interact with 2D ArchiCAD pri-mitives.In fact, the distinguishing characteristicof this plug-in is its close link withArchiCAD. For example, when youimport complex DWG files intoArchiCAD, you can use the SimplifyPolyline tool to reduce the number ofnodes of the lines and polylines. Or,using the Transform into Polyline tool,you can transform groups of consecutive2D elements into a single element.The second part of the ArchiRulerPalette contains the tools needed formanaging the 2D elements you create.

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Using the Measurements tool, you canobtain information on the distance orangle of the elements on the Floor Plan,while, with the settings window, you canchange the element sizes numerically.Another useful tool is the Delete Areatool, which, based on an area you defineusing ArchiCAD's "Marquee" tool, allowsyou to cancel or cut elements accordingto various settings:

various methods for aligning ele-ments on the Floor Plan.

- The Distribution tool, whichprovides additional functionalitywith respect to ArchiCADsMultiply command.

- The Asymmetrical Scalingcommand, which lets you resizea selection with different scalingfactors for the X and Y axes.

- The Insulation tool, whichallows you to insert and controla fill pattern that runs along twoor more parallel segments.

- The Fill for Composite Walls tool,which lets you stack a 2D object ontop of one or more composite walls inorder to enhance the graphic quality ofthe fill pattern.

- The Text on Polyline tool, whichallows you to create text and position italong a polylines path.

- The Fill: Maximum Area tool, withwhich you can create a fill based onthe largest possible bounding box sur-

- cancel only the elements thatare either completely inside oroutside the area;

- cancel only the elements thatintersect the area or cut andcancel everything inside or out-side the area;

- cut and divide the elements insi-de the area and move them toanother part of the drawing.

ArchiRulers true strong point, however,lies in its Tools section, which gives theuser access to powerful commands, suchas:- The Alignment tool, which provides

rounding a closed geometric shape onthe Floor Plan.

- The Fill with Color/Material tool,which allows you to transform animage or add bicolor shading to geo-metric shapes defined on the FloorPlan.

- The Zigzag tool, which allows you tocut the elements you select by positio-ning a 2D object on the Floor Plan.

ArchiMapArchiCAD plug-in for surveying interiorsThis plug-in provides you with all of the tools necessary for creating as-builtsurveys within ArchiCAD. Its tools for designing and placing doors and win-dows allow you to quickly and easily draw an as-built survey and convert itinto a 3D model made up of parametric ArchiCAD elements.

Work methodWith the Room tool, usingthe same logic as if youwere doing a freehand sket-ch, you design the roomsbeing surveyed on the FloorPlan (rectangular, L-shapedor freeform) and add anynecessary notes or informa-tion. Next you define thepositions of doors and win-dows, using either a generictype (single- or double-door)or choosing one from the

ArchiCAD Library.Using the Trilateration tool, you insertthe diagonals in the room to block theas-built survey geometrically; if there areintersecting diagonals, ArchiMap letsyou define which ones are primary andwhich are secondary. Furthermore, youcan define a 90 angle between twowalls or insert hotspots inside, outsideor along the sidesof the room beingsurveying (forexample, for pla-cing a pillar or to

define the position of an element on awall).The Measurements tool lets you insertthe lengths of the rooms sides or diago-nals either individually or in sequence.You can input the measurementsmanually or by interfacing directly withLeicas Disto Plus laser distance meter(via a BlueTooth connection).The Join tool allows you to connectrooms that have been surveyed and sto-

red, using the doors that the rooms havein common. If the thickness of the wallseparating the Rooms is not uniform, youcan join the rooms using four hotspots(two in each room), resulting in the gene-ration of a trapezoidal wall.Once the rooms have been joined, youcan create a Perimeter around them anddefine the following parameters: the

maximum and default thickness of theperimeter wall and internal walls, the tra-pezoidal wall limit, the limit for the diffe-rence in aligned walls thicknesses andthe limit for trapezoidal perimeter walls.Using the 3D Construction tool, you canselect the as-built and the Perimeter andthen either manually or automaticallyerect all of the walls and insert the doorsand windows selected from the ArchiCADLibrary. ArchiMap erects editable wallsindividually based on the active settingsfor ArchiCAD's Wall tool (height, mate-rials, pen, internal hatching, etc.); the 2Das-built is thus converted into a 3D model

made up entirely of parametric ArchiCADelements.

ArchiFaadeArchiCAD Plug-in for Straightening Perspective ImagesArchiFaade is a Plug-in that allows perspective images (photographs offaades, objects, etc.) to be transformed in order to straighten them.Based on the principles of projective geometry, ArchiFaade uses the appro-priate mathematical transformations to remove perspective distortions froman image until a rectified version is generated.

ArchiFaades ToolPalette can be openedwhen necessary and isused just like any otherpalette, providing a sim-ple and rapid way to cor-rect the perspective of abuilding.Obtaining the straighte-

ned image of a tall building perhapsone with elaborate mouldings and otherarchitectural elements is a lengthyand difficult task. The most rapid and

efficient solution involves digitalisingyour photograph and then, with thehelp of ArchiFaade, transforming it intoa straightened image in which themeasurements of the individual partscorrespond to the exact proportions ofthe actual structure.ArchiFaade provides two simplemethods for straightening perspectiveimages, both of which require just a fewmeasurements.With the first method, the real coordina-tes of four points of the structure (measu-

rements taken on-site) are indicated onthe photograph that has been importedinto the Floor Plan. With the secondmethod, first a significantly sized hori-zontal or vertical segment of the actualfaade is indicated on the photograph.Then, on the same plane, two points areextended from the end points of the seg-ment to apply the triangulation techni-que.The program allows any unnecessaryparts to be deleted from the bitmap, sothat images can be refined and adju-sted as desired.Lastly, ArchiFaade provides a simplegraphic procedure for converting photo-graphic images into ArchiCAD libraryparts, allowing them to be reused inphotorealistic settings. With a few simple and quick calcula-tions, photographs of people, trees,wings of buildings or any other type ofimage can be inserted into 3D modelswithout GDL scripting or the use of otherprograms.

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How does it work?

Or consider a line that, on the actual structure,is horizontal or vertical and use it to implementthe triangulation technique.

Once the image of the faade has been strai-ghtened, any parts of the photograph that arenot relevant to the project can be selected andremoved.

Or you can modify the plane of a flat image totransform it into a backdrop for an ArchiCAD3D representation.

Just define four hotspots on the photograph and enterthe measurements taken from the actual structure.

ArchiTilesArchiCAD Plug-in for the Creation, Layout andCalculation of Tiles The ArchiTiles Plug-in is used for planning, setting and calculating the layoutof tiles on surfaces developed with ArchiCAD, such as floors, walls and cei-lings.

Tile coverings can bedeveloped using one ofthe tile types alreadyavailable in theArchiCAD library, orusers can create new tilesusing the ArchiTiles toolsprovided. A variety of tileshapes are possible, suchas square, rectangular,polygonal or even customshapes. Colours and tex-tures can also be definedfor the tiles created, as

well as information such as the manu-facturer, price per square metre or pertile, etc. Each tile is stored as anArchiCAD library part, allowing it to bereused, edited and modified at anytime.Surfaces to be tiled, such as walls,floors and ceilings, are identified andextracted automatically using ArchiTilesZone tool.Different tile laying options allow theuser to choose between tiling an entiresurface with a customised tiling patternor dividing the surface into a maximum

of three rows. In the latter case, diffe-rent widths and tiling patterns and/ortile types can be defined for each row.ArchiTiles provides a number of tilelaying patterns for users to choose from

or custom patterns can be created ifnecessary.ArchiTiles handles the calculation of theexact dimensions of the surface to becovered. The program automatically cutsthe tiles or panels as necessary and lea-ves out the areas that will not be tiled,such as doors and windows.Once the 2D representation is complete,the walls are rotated 90 and the tiledareas are inserted into the ArchiCADFloor Plan, where they can be visualisedin any 3D view.

Various calculations can be performedregarding the tiles used, including theexact dimensions of the tiled surfaces, thenumber of tiles and total and partialcosts. Calculations can be made either onan overall basis or by room or tile type.Even partially used tiles are taken intoaccount. The calculations are presentedin a printer-ready diagram or in table for-mat, providing accurate quantitative andfinancial control of the tiling layouts gene-rated.

ArchiSketchyHand Drawn Effects for ArchiCAD DrawingsArchiSketchy is an extension that uses API (Application ProgrammingInterface) technology to add new functionality to ArchiCAD.The Plug-in was created to allow ArchiCAD users to transform the perfectlines of computer-generated images into the softer, irregular lines of hand-sketched drawings. ArchiSketchy opens the road to creativity, allowingprojects to be created that resemble drawings done with a pencil and pen,but without smudges or imperfections.

Work methodWorking with ArchiSketchy is simple.Just select the drawing to be transfor-med, either from the Floor Plan, theSection/Elevation Windows or the 3DWindow, and then choose the transfor-mation command from the ArchiSketchymenu.A single dialog window is displayed,from which one of the seven different

types of transformations can be selec-ted. Each of these can be customised bythe user in terms of pens, lines, fills andtext.The dialog window also allows optionsto be set regarding the types of ele-ments to convert, the minimum length oflines to consider for transformation, thelayer on which the output drawingshould be placed and a number of

other settings that, once customised, canbe saved and used again at any time.To make the transformation even moreunique and customisable, ArchiSketchyallows backgrounds to be chosen that

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resemble different paper textures.Once the transformation type has beenset, the user can decide whether the out-put should be directed to the window oforigin or to an independent window, fromwhich it can be printed or saved in PMKformat.

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The drawing can also be converted intoan Object, allowing it to be resized orused in multiple projects at the same time.It should also be noted that drawingscreated with ArchiSketchy are vectorbased, meaning that they can be easilymodified at any time.

ArchiPanelArchiCAD plug-in for designing false ceilings andraised floorsWith ArchiPanel, you can design raised floors and false ceilings startingwith an ArchiCAD Zone or Fill. To cover an area, you can use panels tocreate simple or checkered layouts or you can use panel modules for moreelaborate arrangements with repeated shapes, sizes and materials.

Work methodIn the settings for your flooror false ceiling paneling,you can define thepanel/module sizes andmaterials, the minimum sur-face area for cut elements,the joint size and layoutorigin and orientation, andyou can also configure thevertical and horizontal sup-porting elements.

The Offset function allows you to definean inset for the paneling with respect tothe perimeter of the area being covered,and you can specify whether to includeor exclude any holes inside the area;you can also configure a false ceilingsborder and customize its edging.The Cut/Drill function allows you to addadditional holes (which may have cur-ved sides) to a paneling once you havepositioned it, while the Modify Panelingtool lets you edit the elements of a

floor/false ceiling, either by selectingthem manually or using customizablesearch criteria. Searches can be perfor-med based on the surface material of apanel, its name or the name of anaccessory that is associated with it, or

the name of its support or supportingbeam. Different search criteria can becombined, and they can also be basedon geometric rules (by row/column andeither horizontally or diagonally). Onceyou have confirmed your panel selectionin the settings window, you can defineoptional accessories, including fans, aera-tion systems, grates, towers, smoke detec-tors and ceiling signage. You can alsoadd lamps, letting you illuminate yourenvironments according to the settings youdefine. The Change Default Configurationtool allows you to update only those ele-

ments that use standard settings, leavingthe panels you configured separatelyunchanged. The Change Layout Origintool allows the origin and orientation ofthe panels/modules to be redefined whilekeeping track of the changes you made tothe individual components and maintai-ning their settings.With the Modify covering/Create structu-re tool, you can generate a support struc-ture with columns that support a beam (forfloors) or suspension elements that holdup a beam (for false ceilings). When apaneling has been selected, this toolallows you to activate or deactivate thedisplay and numbering of the panels,structure and accessories, both in 2D andin 3D; furthermore, you can change theposition of the supports and accessoriesfor each separate panel.If you make design changes to a room,you can make the necessary adjustmentsto the paneling with the automatic updatetool: just use the Update ArchiCAD Zonecommand (or change the fill manually) toregenerate the covering. All of the previou-

sly defined settings will be maintained.ArchiPanels element calculation functionsare particularly interesting: they allow youcalculate the number of whole panels andcut panels by material, display their sizesand list the supports, beams and associa-ted accessories.

ArchiMaterialManagement of ArchiCAD surface materialsArchiMaterial improves management of ArchiCAD surface materials, organi-sing them in a user-defined hierarchy, specifying favourites and using thedrag-&-drop technique to select and drag a preview of the material to assi-gn it to the required element. A simple procedure also generates images to create seamless tiling, bump-mapping, transparency effects, etc.

The ArchiMaterial paletteThe ArchiMaterial palette contains sevenicons, each corresponding to a particu-lar function:- Materials Tracker and List of

Materials in the project;- Copy materials (eyedropper) between

different types of element;- Transfer materials (syringe) between

different types of element;- Create a texture image:- Straighten a texture image;

- ArchiCAD/LightWorks materials tog-gle;

- Help.

Materials TrackerThe Materials Tracker enables you toconfigure the materials for the currentselection without having to display therelative tool settings box. You therefore have simultaneous accessto the materials associated with differenttypes of element (not possible with the

standard ArchiCAD interface),enabling you to assign a mate-rial to the surface of a wall, thecomponent of an object, theedge of a slab etc. The window is extremely simpleto use: select the element (or ele-ments) for which you want toview the materials and the mate-

rials assigned will be listed immediatelyin the Materials Tracker window.

List of MaterialsThe ArchiMaterial List of Materialsdisplays a list of all the materials presentin the project currently open. The materials listed (in alphabeticalorder) are represented with a previewof their texture or colour.The ArchiMaterial tools make it easy todefine a list of favourite materials (those

used most frequently and which thereforerequire quick access) or organise thematerials of a project into a hierarchy.Many users have requested the possibilityof grouping materials according to acustomised hierarchy. ArchiCAD listsmaterials in alphabetical order and whenthe list of materials present is very long,finding a material in order to assign it toa given surface can be tedious. Grouping the materials together, forexample by type (Masonry, Metals, etc)helps the user manage the materials, kee-

ping them organised and enabling themto be found and used as efficiently aspossible.

Assigning Materials to ArchiCAD elementsBy combining the two list windows(Materials Tracker and List of Materials inthe project), you can rapidly assign surfa-ce materials to the construction elementsin your project:

1. select the element (or elements) towhich you want to assign the requiredmaterial;

2. the Tracker window displays a list ofmaterials currently used;

3. drag and drop the selected materialfrom the project's List of Materials win-dow to the item in the Tracker list;

4. ArchiMaterial immediately modifies theelement (or elements) to which youhave assigned the new material,displaying the modifications immedia-tely.

Create a texture imageWhen managing materials, users oftenfind it difficult to create seamless texturesstarting from an original image. ArchiMaterial can process any originalimage with just a single click and withoutcomplex configuration, in just a fewseconds generating a new image whichcan be repeated seamlessly horizontallyand vertically.

ArchiTabulaArchiCAD Plug-in for Creating Spreadsheets,Captions and GraphsArchiTabula is a Plug-in that allows tables containing text or numbers to becreated or imported into ArchiCAD.The contents of tables can be displayed in grid form or, if conditions allow,in graphs or diagrams, using a variety of highly customisable formats.The contents of tables that are created and arranged on the Floor Plan canbe updated at any time without losing the formatting. The elements placed on the Floor Plan are library parts and maintain adynamic link to their data files. This means that any time the document oforigin is modified, the corresponding data is automatically updated inArchiCAD.

Work methodTo begin working with ArchiTabula, firstthe Tool Palette must be activated. To dothis, just open the ArchiTabula menuand select the View ArchiTabula Paletteoption. The command is available from

any 2D window (Floor Plan andSection/Elevation).The Tool Palette contains six buttons, eachof which performs a different function.The first tool, Create/ModifySpreadsheet, allows electronic spread-

sheets to be created forentering text, numbers ormathematical formulas.ArchiTabula spreadsheetsare similar to normalspreadsheets; the onlydifference is that, due to

restrictions imposed by the API develop-ment environment, the dimensions arelimited to 128 rows and 64 columns.ArchiTabula allows files to be opened ineither tabulated text format or in theArchiCAD Calculation Lists format. After processing, they can be saved in.SLV format and placed on theArchiCAD Floor Plan Worksheet asObjects.ArchiTabula also has its own calcula-tor. This handy tool is similar to regularcalculators but has a number of addedfeatures that make it especially popularamong users. First of all, up to elevennumbers can be stored in memory, foreasy retrieval and viewing in the lateralextension of the calculator.

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0,88

1,64

1,75

0,8

82,

540,

88

4,2

00,

88

1,0

2 0,32 1,70

0,135,08

0,12 1,2

0

0,12 6,8

7

0,30 4,19

0,12 1,2

0

0,12 6,8

7

0,3215,22

0,36

2,21

0,88

2,46

0,88 3,23

0,88 0,75

4,61

0,30

4,33

0,1

84,

750,

301,

99

0,30

0,32 4,82

0,12 10,2

80,36

0,32 2,42

0,3012,50

0,36

0,30

7,2

60,

300,

302,

550,

30

0,30

4,33

2,93

0,30

2,0

01,

99

0,30

+6,39

A5

A5

1

2

3

4

5

Office 11

Office 22

Office 33

Office 44

Office 55

Diagram

Additional functionality is provided by theRead Length and Read Area buttons,which can be used to read the dimen-sions of 3D and 2D elements in the FloorPlan or Section/Elevation. The measure-ments can be read in two ways: either byselecting the elements on the Floor Planand then clicking on the read commandsor by selecting the commands first andthen the elements. Of course, these valuescan also be memorised in the calculatorsdisplay area.ArchiTabula also allows spreadsheets to

11,29

4,61

15,0

0

15,90

4,20

15,0

0

15,90

0,30 4,0

1

0,30

0,30

0,3

04,

43

0,1

2

0,12 1,3

2

0,12 4,1

9

0,12 1,2

0

0,12 6,9

3

0,30

0,3

04,

43

0,1

27,

00

0,3

0

0,3

03,

38

0,1

13,

21

0,2

14,

64

0,3

0

0,30 5,1

5

0,12 4,4

0

0,12 5,5

1

0,30

0,3

07,

24

0,1

27,

04

0,3

0

6,75

2,40

2,14

+9,18

A5

A5

8Lighting system 1

8Lighting system 2

5Lighting system 3

12Lighting system 4

12Lighting system 5

10Lighting system 6

Room Lighting system

1

23

4

5

6

1 Illuminazione stanza 1

2 Illuminazione stanza 2

3 Illuminazione stanza 3

4 Illuminazione stanza 4

5 Illuminazione stanza 5

6 Illuminazione stanza 6

Room Lighting system

Illustr

atio

n by

: Ar

ch.

Mar

co T

offo

l (TN

)

created using the Spreadsheet Objecttool.Files previously created in .SLV format areused as reference files and are openeddirectly in the dialog window. Elementssuch as the background colour of thespreadsheet and font can also be customi-sed in the dialog window. Spreadsheetsplaced on the Floor Plan are ArchiCADObjects, which means that they can bereopened and modified as desired.Native .SLV files can also be used tocreate graphs with the Graph Objecttool.A series of icons in the Settings dialogwindow allows quick and easy selectionof the type of graph to display. As withspreadsheets, elements such as font,dimensions and display colours are custo-misable.The Caption Object tool allows creationof a caption using a predefined structuredivided into various boxes that changesize to accommodate the data entered.Even a company logo can be displayed,

with the size and position desired. Thefont type can vary from box to box. Oncethe caption has been completed, it canbe saved and placed on the Floor Plan asan Object.

ArchiQuantCalculating estimates linkedArchiQuant is an ArchiCAD plug-in developed to provide users with a sim-pler and more immediate way of calculating estimates linked to the construc-tion (and other) elements in an ArchiCAD Virtual Building. Using ArchiQuant requires no knowledge of GDL language, nor the use ofProperty Objects or the ArchiCAD calculation database. You simply need to assign a component to the construction element in que-stion, then define the calculation method (quantity calculation formula) forthat element and it will be automatically calculated from the list of calcula-tions provided by ArchiQuant.

How ArchiCAD changes when you installArchiQuantIf ArchiQuant is correctly installed in theArchiCAD add-ons directory, there willbe a new panel inside most of the ele-ment setting dialog boxes (in practice,for all elements which can be calculatedby ArchiQuant) and a dedicated toolpalette providing access to the various

ArchiQuant functions.You will be able to calculatequantity estimates using justthese two elements (settingspanel and tool palette).

The components databaseThe components database file (in otherwords, the price list) contains all the

items which can be calculated in ourArchiCAD project. It is essentially based on two types ofelement: - the Chapter (identical to the concept of

the Key in the ArchiCAD database);- the Component (identical to the con-

cept of the Component in theArchiCAD database).

The data in the database (codes,descriptions, measurement units and unitprices) can be imported from externalfiles or defined manually usingArchiQuant itself.

Quantity calculation formulaWhen a component is assigned to anArchiCAD construction element, the wayin which that component is calculatedmust be defined according to thesizes/quantities of that construction ele-ment. The rule used for this calculation, simplya mathematical equation easily andintuitively defined by the user, is knownas the calculation formula.

List of linked componentsYou can link a number of components andtherefore a number of formulas to eachArchiCAD construction element:For example, in the case of a certain typeof wall, the individual components couldbe:- bricks (number of bricks per cubic

metre of wall);- external plaster (linked to the external

surface area of the wall);- internal plaster (linked to the internal

surface area of the wall);- external finish (linked to the external

surface area of the wall);- internal painting (linked to the internal

surface area of the wall);- skirting (linked to the internal length of

the wall minus the width of the doors inthe host wall);

- etc.

The list of components could be quite longand the formulas quite complex.ArchiQuant enables the user to save theselists of components, change the settings

and link them again later (or in otherprojects) to the various construction ele-ments.

Calculation ListsThese lists display the estimates calculatedby ArchiQuant.There are two types:- tabbed calculation lists (where the data

are presented within a grid of cells);

- formatted calculation lists (where thedata are arranged in a structuredlayout).

The calculation lists can obviously becustomised, choosing which data todisplay, the filters to be used and thegraphics of the list itself. Once again, the settings can be saved foruse at any moment without having towaste time reconfiguring the list as requi-red.

ArchiWallArchiCAD Plug-in for Creating Free-form WallsArchiWall lets you add overlaid structures to regular ArchiCAD walls,allowing simple prismatic blocks to be transformed into multiform architectu-ral elements.With ArchiWall, users can add free-form accessory elements to normalArchiCAD walls to create mouldings and other decorations, giving projectsa more realistic appearance while maintaining the characteristic simplicityand speed of ArchiCAD.

Work methodUsing ArchiWall is easy.Just select the wall youwant to connect theobject to, then chooseone of the seven transfor-mation types availablefrom the Tool Palette. Each transformation typehas an associated

Settings window in which details suchas the materials to be used for theobject, the starting level and total hei-ght, the plan attributes and cross sectionelevation can be defined.Since the object created is connected tothe wall, it inherits the walls door andwindow openings.Once an ArchiWall element has beencreated, if the host walls window or

door openings are modified or remo-ved, such changes can be reflected inthe ArchiWall element by selecting theelement and clicking on the DataUpdate button in the ArchiWall ToolPalette. These updates can also beperformed automatically by enablingthe Automatic Update option on theelements Settings window.An elements settings can be modifiedeven after it has been positioned on theFloor Plan, either by selecting the appro-priate button from the Tool Palette or byselecting the element to open its Settingswindow.For the transformation types that requirethe definition of profiles or paths, theExplosion button can be selected fromthe ArchiWall Tool Palette to make acopy of the ArchiWall elements aftertheir creation. This allows the user tomodify the geometry of the elementsand to use the same profiles and pathsfor other walls. Once modificationshave been made to the geometry of the

exploded elements, these objects can beregenerated by clicking on the UpdateGeometry button.ArchiWall objects are connected to thehost wall, but are not dependent on it.This means that the host wall can be dele-ted after the desired element has beencreated, making it possible to view onlythe outline of the object when creating

furnishings or decorative elements.ArchiWall also makes it possible toexport the elements created to other fileformats and enables documents to beexchanged among co-workers without therisk of providing an incomplete image.Just remember to supply other users withthe ArchiWall library or save the projectin Archive format. Elements created with

ArchiWall maintain all of the geometriccharacteristics of the walls from whichthey originate, including the cuts madewith roofs and door and window ope-nings. ArchiWall objects can also be edi-ted using ArchiCAD, though with limitedfunctionality.

ArchiTimeArchiCAD Plug-in for the Analysis of TimeManagement StatisticsHow often have you asked yourself how much time you or your colleagueshave spent in front of the computer designing a particular project?This type of information is of great value for determining the time and, hence,the costs required to develop a project and for evaluating how the ArchiCADprogram is used and what influence this has on the total costs of work perfor-med. Such figures can be used for statistical and informational purposes as wellas for assessing the costs of inputting data into the computer, which is one ofthe primary factors in determining your prices.ArchiTime, which is launched automatically each time you work on a project,keeps track of the operations carried out based on element type and functionperformed. It also tracks the time spent in each work session, broken down byworksheet window and work day. When the project is completed, ArchiTimeprovides a detailed summary report of the data collected (including explana-tory graphs) that can either be printed or saved in text format for further proces-sing in spreadsheets or by dedicated programs.No effort is required on the users part; ArchiTime goes unnoticed, working discree-tly in the background and requiring no interaction unless you request information.

Work methodThe ArchiTime commands are includedin a Tool Palette that is available for theentire duration of the project.

The first two buttons can be used to inter-rupt or restart monitoring of the timespent on your project. If you accidentallyforget to restart the Plug-in, a warningmessage will automatically appearreminding you that ArchiTime has beenpaused and that any additions or modifi-cations to the project will not be tracked.The third button allows a summaryreport of the monitoring information tobe viewed in text format. The contentsof this window, as with all ArchiCADtext windows, can either be printed orsaved in text format and opened withother programs.The fourth button opens the formattedreport window, a special ArchiTime win-

dow in which the data collected from themonitoring process is displayed in graphi-cal format. Since the graphical format isan Object, its appearance can be custo-mised using the fifth button on the toolpalette. The user interface of the settingswindow is similar to ArchiCAD windowsand can be used to select the font type,font size and pen colour.

The remaining options can be used toactivate or deactivate the visualization ofcertain types of information in the sum-mary report, such as the time spentworking in the individual worksheet win-dows or a list of operations performed onArchiCAD elements, as well as informa-tion pertaining to the visualisation of thegraphic report.

The last ArchiTime function can be usedto compare the reports from differentprojects, allowing statistical evaluations tobe carried out regarding work performed.In this manner, ArchiTime helps you get aclear idea of how ArchiCAD is beingused by indicating the worksheet win-dows you use the most, the tools you aremost comfortable working with, and thoseyou find to be less user friendly.

Cigraph S.r.l. Via Orsato, 38 - 30175 VE/MargheraTel. ++39(0)41932388 - Fax ++39(0)41920031www.cigraph.com

Cigraph

Cigraph Factory S.r.l.

ArchiTerra, ArchiStair, ArchiForma, ArchiRuler, ArchiFaade,ArchiTiles, ArchiTime, ArchiMap, ArchiPnel, ArchiMaterial,ArchiQuant, ArchiSketchy, ArchiTabula and ArchiWall are registe-red trademarks of Cigraph S.r.l.. ArchiCAD, GDL are registeredtrademarks of Graphisoft. Other products and trade names maybe trademarks or registered trademarks of other companies andare used purely for demonstrative purposes in favour of the trade-mark holder, without intent of breach.

Illustration by: Marco Marella, Studio Rubini Perez & Cattozzi(Ve), Andrea Talamini (BL), Arch. Marco Toffol (TN).

What is an ArchiCAD plug-in?A Plug-in is a software component that allows ArchiCAD to provide newfunctions in addition to the standard characteristics. ArchiCAD allows you to manage the plug-ins automatically, starting them upand closing them through the menu bar. Indeed, once the Plug-in has beeninstalled, a new menu will appear in the menu bar. This menu will behavecompletely like any other ArchiCAD menu. It will allow you to access thePlug-in palette and therefore to access all of its tools.In fact, you will not even realise that you are using a Plug-in: it will still besimilar to using your ArchiCAD, but with more functions.

The Plug-Ins configuration is determined by the configuration required byArchiCAD. To know the most recently updated configuration visit the Cigraph website: www.cigraph-store.com.

PLUG-INS FOR ARCHICADArchiTerraArchiStairArchiFormaArchiRulerArchiMapArchiFaadeArchiTilesArchiSketchyArchiPanelArchiMaterialArchiTabulaArchiQuantArchiWallArchiTimeWhat is an ArchiCAD plug-in?