Converting STL files into GDL Objects

[Craig Boyer]

Using STL (StereoLithography File) content can be a great tool in building up a custom library. Follow the steps below to convert STL content into GDL objects.

Opening Content

1. Go to File > Open > Open.

2. Select the STL file to import, check the box next to Launch a new instance of ARCHICAD and click Open.

3. In the Import STL file dialogue box, verify or adjust the scale of the object and click Import.

4. The STL file will be converted into a Morph. Navigate to 3D, select the morph and open the Morph Selection Settings dialogue box.

5. Change the Surface of the morph (if necessary), set the Edges to Hidden to hide unwanted triangulation and click OK.

6. Select the morph and go to File > Libraries and Objects > Save Selection as... > Object...

7. In the Save as Object dialogue box click OK.

8. In the Save Object dialogue box name the object and click Save.

9. In the Change Object's Basic Settings dialogue box, verify or adjust the settings and click OK to save the object to the Embedded Library.

Exporting & Archiving Content

Once STL content has been imported and converted into a GDL object it can be exported to an office library for wider and repeat use. Visit the link below on exporting content from the Embedded Library. Exporting Content from the Embedded Library