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ArchiCAD

iMapper exports DXF and IFC files for ArchiCAD from laser-scanned room measurements with ±2mm precision.
Company:
ArchiCAD
iMapper + ArchiCAD: Laser-Scanned Rooms to BIM-Ready Data
DXF and IFC export from measured site data — start your BIM model with ±2mm precision and 360° photo cross-reference.
DXF + IFC export • ±2mm precision • 360° photos
Import menu path:
File > Open > select .dxf file (DXF) or File > Interoperability > Merge IFC Model (IFC)

iMapper integrates with ArchiCAD to give architects millimeter-accurate room measurements ready for BIM modeling and renovation drawings. Using iMapper's laser scanner (±2mm precision), you capture complete room geometry—walls, windows, doors, and irregular surfaces—in under 3 minutes per room. The iMapper platform exports DXF files that open directly in ArchiCAD, and IFC files that import walls as native ArchiCAD objects. Unlike tape measures or expensive 3D scanning stations (iMapper costs a fraction of heavy scanning alternatives), iMapper delivers BIM-ready data without manual transcription. Every measurement includes 360° reference photos, so you can verify details in ArchiCAD without returning to site.

Benefits

±2mm Measurement Accuracy

iMapper's laser captures 1,200+ points per minute with ±2mm precision. Dimensions in ArchiCAD match reality exactly—no site revisits for missed measurements.

Two Import Paths: DXF or IFC

Use DXF for point clouds and polylines as design reference, or IFC to import walls directly as native ArchiCAD objects with thickness—ready for BIM workflows.

20x More Affordable Than 3D Scanning Stations

iMapper costs a fraction of heavy 3D scanning equipment. Professional accuracy without enterprise pricing.

Workflow steps

Step 1: Capture site data with iMapper

Place iMapper in room center, press button once. Automatic scan completes in 2-3 minutes with ±2mm accuracy and 360° photos.

Step 2: Upload to iMapper Platform

Transfer via SD card or Connect app to platform.imapper.tech. Scans auto-stitch into complete floor plan.

Step 3: Export to DXF or IFC

Click Export > DXF for point clouds and lines, or Export > IFC to import walls directly into ArchiCAD as native objects.

Step 4: Import into ArchiCAD

For DXF: File > Open > select .dxf file. For IFC: File > Interoperability > Merge IFC Model. iMapper data appears ready for design work.

Step 5: Start your BIM model

DXF imports point clouds and polylines on separate layers for tracing. IFC imports walls with thickness as native ArchiCAD objects—ready for immediate design.

Step 6: Verify with photo cross-reference

Uncertain about a detail? Cross-reference the 360° photos captured during scanning—no site revisit needed.

iMapper creates 2D sections, not full 3D mesh models. For full building point clouds with millions of points, dedicated 3D scanning stations are more appropriate.

Use cases

Renovation BIM

Capture existing conditions before design begins. Import walls via IFC to start your BIM model with accurate as-built geometry.

Historic Preservation

Document heritage buildings with millimeter accuracy. Point clouds reveal structural details that tape measures miss.

As-Built Documentation

Create accurate BIM records of completed work for handover or facility management.

Interior Architecture

Base drawings with precise room geometry for space planning and fit-out projects in ArchiCAD.

Category
BIM
Useful for
Architect
Output Formats
DXF, IFC
Recommended Format
DXF
Accuracy Statement
±2mm precision
Units
Metric and Imperial
Supported Versions
ArchiCAD 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28
Last Updated
February 8, 2026

Frequently asked questions

Need something cleared up? Here are our most frequently asked questions.
What file formats does iMapper export for ArchiCAD?
How accurate are iMapper measurements in ArchiCAD?
Do I need a plugin to use iMapper with ArchiCAD?
What versions of ArchiCAD are supported?
Can I verify measurements if something looks unclear?
What projects work best with iMapper + ArchiCAD?
How long does the workflow take?
What is the difference between DXF and IFC export for ArchiCAD?

How

Architect

s

are using iMapper

Discover how companies streamline scanning, standardize operations, and speed up decision-making using iMapper’s camera-powered visual data system.
Albert Dubler
Architectural firm
iMapper is easy to use, even for people like me who find it harder to learn compared to younger people.
Albert Dubler
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Dimitri Bodiansky
Architectural firm
It’s one of the tools I can no longer work without.
Dimitri Bodiansky
latelier-des-batisseurs
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