Improved Sketch mode

Sketch Mode is a dedicated mode in ARCHLine.XP designed for creating or modifying custom elements—such as doors, windows, or furniture—operating as a mini-project within the main project.

When Sketch Mode is launched, the program automatically saves the current project and moves it to the background.
When Sketch Mode is closed, ARCHLine.XP automatically reloads the main project.

Starting Sketch Mode

Sketch Mode can be started in two ways.

The mode preserves its previous state, so the next time it is launched you can choose whether to:

• restore the previously edited model, or

• start with an empty environment.

Using Sketch Mode selection, you can continue editing a selected element in an empty project environment.

When the mode starts, the selected object is displayed broken down into its component elements. These components can be individually:

• modified,

• deleted, or

• assigned new materials.

After editing, the components can be saved as:

• a new object,

• a replacement object, or

• a door or window.

To complete the operation, Sketch Mode must be closed.

Command location: Ribbon Menu > Edit > Sketch Mode

After starting the command, the Sketch ribbon menu appears.

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Purpose of Sketch Mode

Sketch Mode allows you to modify 3D objects, enabling imported elements to be adapted to your specific needs without using external applications.

Both 2D and 3D tools are available during editing, allowing you to work with precise dimensions and detailed geometry.

💡 Tip: This mode is especially useful for modifying and fine-tuning imported objects such as furniture, sanitary fixtures, and custom elements.

Drawing (2D Editing)

Using 2D elements (lines, arcs, texts) on surfaces, you can create sketches of the areas to be modified.
These sketches serve as the basis for precise geometric modifications of the object.

Material changes can also be initiated from this interface, allowing the edited element to be fully configured by the end of the process.

💡 Tip: 2D drawing is particularly useful for creating precise cutouts, extensions, annotations, or construction guide lines.

3D Editing

With 3D tools, new elements can be added to the existing object:

• 3D Shape: Adds a freely defined 3D solid to the object.

• Follow Me tool: Creates a profile along a specified path by following a surface.

• 3D Command: Inserts predefined 3D solids (e.g. prism, cylinder, etc.) into the object.

⚠️ Important: Added 3D elements become part of the object and are saved together with it.

Finishing Editing and Saving

After completing the editing process, you can define how the modified element should be saved:

• as an object,

• as a door, or

• as a window.

⚠️ Important: To finalize all operations, Sketch Mode must be closed.

When Sketch Mode is closed, the program automatically reloads the main project.