As of Archicad 26, BIMx models exported from Archicad 26 will use a single, modern 3D model format.
The renewed mobile apps already use only the new 3D format. BIMx Desktop Viewer and BIMx Web Viewer products now also support the newer format and its benefits.
Earlier versions: Since Archicad 22, exporting to BIMx format required generating the 3D model twice - to accommodate two different formats (older and newer).
With Archicad 26: The previous, outdated 3D model format is no longer exported, and all models are exported only with the newer format.
•Export from Archicad is considerably faster in many cases, and the file size is smaller
•Advantages of the new format are now visible in BIMx Desktop Viewer and BIMx Web Viewer:
–BIMx model reflects Archicad Location Settings:
-Direct light makes the model more realistic (north-facing sides are darkened). Set Project Location and/or North Angle in Project References > Location Settings to open the 3D model with the desired and realistic light direction in BIMx.
-Automatic rotation of “Skybox” background
–Archicad-defined View Cone is also reflected in BIMx. Define the desired View Cone in 3D Projection Settings. You can set different values for e.g. interior and exterior 3D models included in the same Hyper-model
•New, on-the-fly rendering (Ambient Occlusion) available in BIMx Desktop Viewer and BIMx Web Viewer. (Turn it on or off these products’ 3D Settings page.)
•Generating Global Illumination from Archicad 26 models is no longer available
•Option to limit navigation to Gallery items is no longer available (only affects older versions of Desktop viewer)
(Older BIMx models using GI can still be opened in BIMx Desktop Viewer and BIMx Web Viewer.)