topic convert library objects into forms? Benefits? in Libraries & objects

convert library objects into forms? Benefits?

Paopao — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:35:21 GMT

Hi, I have a model of a church with many Corinthian capitals (more than 50) which I imported as library objects, the capital was a 3DS file. The PLN file is beginning to be unmanageable. Would I better manage it if I convert all these capitals into forms? Just a question. Any other option?

Thanks
PP

Re: Unmanageable file with many library objects (one 3DS import obj - many instances )

Barry Kelly — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 00:20:06 GMT

How detailed are the columns?
Can you show an image from 3D and elevation?

By converting to 'forms' I assume you mean 'morphs'.
This probably won't make too much difference as the resulting morph will have just as many polygons.
However, being a morph you are able to reduce the number of polygons.
The problem with this is it may change the look of the column as it won't be as detailed any more.

Take a copy of you file and try converting to morphs and reducing the number of polygons (segments).
There is no harm to your original file if you experiment on a copy.
Then if it works you can save it back as your original or go back to the original file and do the same changes may be better just in case you have messed something else up in the experimenting.

Barry.

Re: convert library objects into forms? Benefits?

Lingwisyer — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 00:53:22 GMT

Morphs? Probably would not change much as all of the geometry would still be there.

In 3DS Max you could try using the Optimise modifier to reduce the poly count of the object before you import it into ArchiCAD.

Ling.

Re: convert library objects into forms? Benefits?

Barry Kelly — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 02:44:54 GMT

Duplicate topics have been merged.
There is no need to post the same problem twice.

Barry.

Re: convert library objects into forms? Benefits?

Paopao — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 10:39:44 GMT

"morphs" are calle Forms in the Italian interface, sorry. will try to do it but I have a feeling it won't change that much because I tried some time ago. I guess mybest bet will be Rhino....

Re: convert library objects into forms? Benefits?

runxel — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 17:00:18 GMT

Morphs are more power intense than library parts.
My guess would be a too high polygon count to begin with, too.

Are those 50 capitals different?
If not there's your problem. If they are all, or mostly, the alike you can use the same object, which will help performance wise.

Re: convert library objects into forms? Benefits?

runxel — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 22:31:17 GMT

Also saving them in binary form, but still as object might help.