aec objects from architects

[awiebe]

We have been dealing with a few arch. lately and when we get a dwg from them we have problems with there AEC objects. We have had to have them explode the objects prior to us getting and using the dwg. We use land desktop 2002. (haven't upgraded yet) 2006 soon. I can't wait. Anyway is there a way to enable the arch AEC objects as well as the ones that LDD uses. I tried something once and had to reload my software. Thanks in advance.

[Ed Jobe]

Depends... If the architechts have 2002, you can use an object enabler. If they have a version higher than yours, they may have to save to a 2000 file for you to be able to read it.

[MHultgren]

I have found that even with the Object Enablers, you cannot Snap to endpoints or intesections of lines in the objects. Take a Wall object for example, If you try to snap to the outside corner, you get the centerline intersection instead. This makes it impossible to dimension clearances without exploding the objects.

[awiebe]

Mark
Thanks for the info. We currently can see the wall objects and stuff but we cannot explode the objects or like you say snap to them correctly. The Architects must be able to snap to the corners of wall objects, if they can then why can't we with the correct object enablers. Sounds alittle crazy that the 2 platforms cannot cross. We get alot of foundations and other structural designs from architects and for us to redraw them is not very cost effective to our clients. Thanks again

[jpaulsen]

You stated that the architect is exploding the objects before they save the drawing. In my experience this should work. It's possible the architect is not exploding all the objects.

If I am not mistaken, Architectural Desktop has an Export to AutoCAD command on the File pull-down menu. I know that functionality is in Land Desktop. If they use that command all objects should get converted to AutoCAD blocks that you will be able to explode.

[awiebe]

Thanks to all who responded. I found a object arx enabler file thru Autodesk that linked me right up with the correct enabler by knowing the Arch Desktop version and my version of LDDT. Works like a champ. Its been a bit and don't remember just how I got to the download page but wanted you all to know I'm now good to go. Thanks again AUGI

[MHultgren]

If they use that command all objects should get converted to AutoCAD blocks that you will be able to explode.

The IF is the big question\problem. Some of them don't know that is available and we end up with proxy objects that we have to explode and then you have to clean up the 3D stuff. All I use from them usually, is the Slab edge and Roof drip line. All boils down to standards and the detail of them. Some Archs give me a set of dwgs with just what I want on two layers ( Even BYLAYER!!) others, are a completely different story