Linked models

CAD or IFC files can be imported or linked into an ARCHLine.XP project.

For example, many renovation projects start with existing 2D drawings. Instead of redrawing from scratch, link or import the CAD file and use the modeling tools in ARCHLine.XP.

Linking vs. Importing
• Link: The link to the original file is maintained, and the link is updated when the original file is updated.
• Import: The imported file becomes a separate item. It is no longer related to the original file.

Linking CAD files in ARCHLine.XP
CAD file formats that can be imported or linked are AutoCAD® (DWG and DXF) files.
• When linking or importing a CAD file, you can specify the linking or import units (e.g., feet, meter, etc).

Linking IFC files in ARCHLine.XP
Linking IFC files is suggested for coordination purposes. It does not generate native ARCHLine.XP elements because all elements remain IFCElement.

Representation of levels
You can choose to display the IFC model as a unit on the floor plan when all elements are displayed at the active level when merging, or the program tries to associate the project levels with the levels specified in the IFC model. In the second case, the associated IFC elements appear separated at the project levels.

Positioning
When you link a model to the ARCHLine.XP project,
you can specify how the incoming geometry is placed relative to the host model.

• Use automatic positioning to place the incoming geometry with original coordinates.
• Manual positioning allows you to place the the origin of incoming geometry to a specific point.

Info
Properties panel shows information about selected component, its parameters.

IFC
Link IFC file inserts an IFC model into the current project as external reference (link). You cannot edit the IFC model when it is linked, but linking IFC file allows to see and snap the model in 2D/3D. You can adapt your design to the work of another design team, e.g. interior design to architectural model. When the original IFC file was updated you can refresh your link when you reload it in the Link Manager dialog. Properties panel shows information about selected component, its parameters.

Revit RVT
Link RVT file inserts a Revit model into the current project as external reference (link). You cannot edit the Revit model when it is linked, but linking RVT file allows to see and snap the model in 2D/3D. You can adapt your design to the work of another design team, e.g. interior design to architectural model. When the original RVT file was updated you can refresh your link when you reload it in the Link Manager dialog.