Where to Find Objects for Use in ArchiCAD

•The standard ArchiCAD library, shipped as part of your program, contains hundreds of predefined standard objects.

•Using ArchiCAD’s Library Manager, you can load additional libraries or add individual library parts as embedded objects at any time. You can also access libraries from BIM Servers.

For more information, see Library Manager.

•Through the Settings dialog box of Library Part elements, as well as Surface Settings, you can access the BIM Components Portal (BIMcomponents.com) while browsing for library parts. The BIM Components Portal is a searchable and interactive depository of objects and surfaces contributed by ArchiCAD users.

For more information, see Search for Library Part and BIM Components Portal.

For information about importing surfaces, see New from Catalog (at Surface Settings).

•On the Internet, you will find a growing number of websites dedicated to GDL Objects, such as the Object Depository (ArchiCAD-talk.graphisoft.com/object_depository.php) or ObjectsOnLine (www.objectsonline.com). The GRAPHISOFT website (www.graphisoft.com) contains a directory of such locations.

•The GDL Web Control Add-On
(www.graphisoft.com/products/ArchiCAD/object_technology/downloads) allows you to select GDL Objects (Library Parts) from your web browser, and then drag & drop the objects directly into ArchiCAD Projects or into the Object Settings dialog box.

Note: This function works if this plug-in has been correctly installed in your web browser’s plug-ins folder.

On the site containing GDL Objects, choose the one that best suits your needs, and right-click on it (Windows) or click on it while holding the Ctrl key down (MacOS).

Choose Save Object from the context menu that is displayed.

These objects are automatically added to the Library Manager’s Embedded Objects folder.

See also Library Manager.

•A number of third party programs or Add-Ons let you create or edit GDL Objects. These objects contain GDL scripts as well as other, application dependent data. Consult your dealer for availability information.

•DXF libraries are widespread in the CAD world and cover almost every area of engineering and design. Many manufacturers offer symbols or models of their products in DXF format. ArchiCAD can easily import these libraries.

•You can use existing elements within ArchiCAD to create and save custom objects.

For more information, see Graphic Creation of Custom Library Parts and Components.

•If you have very specific needs and no preconfigured library part will do, ArchiCAD provides a unique solution with its Geometric Description Language (GDL). Using this very simple programming environment, you can potentially script any building element in the form of library parts.

For more information, see Scripting Custom Objects.

•You can sculpt in other 3D applications. ArchiCAD can import any 3D model you create, such those using Zoom or Alias Wavefront. These applications are multipurpose 3D modelers allowing shapes of free geometry.

For more information, see add-on specific documentation in the GRAPHISOFT Documentation folder.