Issue Description
You might receive a request to export your project data as a DWG file for additional editing in another software. The request specifies that the data should be in real-world coordinates. Despite modeling at origin and utilizing the Survey Point Tool to obtain precise coordinates, when exporting to DWG, the resulting file fails to maintain the specified coordinates.
Solution
The only way to Export DWG files with coordinates is from the model space where architectural elements are accurately positioned using real-world coordinates.
Understanding Why DWG Files Won't Export to Real-World Coordinates from Archicad Layout
1. Scaling Challenges: In Archicad's layout environment, drawings are typically scaled to fit specific sheet sizes for presentation purposes. Real-world coordinates, on the other hand, represent precise geographical locations or positions. Exporting directly from the layout page might lead to discrepancies due to scaling differences between the layout and the model space.
2. Coordinate Systems Discrepancy: Archicad employs a local coordinate system within the layout environment, tailored for organizing drawings and annotations effectively. Exporting DWG files with real-world coordinates necessitates a transition from this local system to the global coordinate system used in the model space. This conversion process isn't inherently facilitated within the layout environment.
3. Purposeful Layout Design: Layout pages in Archicad are crafted to present architectural drawings and designs in a visually appealing manner, often comprising various graphical elements, annotations, and titles. These elements are meticulously arranged for communication purposes rather than precision drafting. Exporting such elements with real-world coordinates could lead to misinterpretation or confusion in downstream applications.
4. Multiple views on a single Layout Design: Layout pages in Archicad can occasionally feature multiple views. With several origins available, the question arises: which origin should be chosen for export?