CINEMA 4D + Graphisoft ArchiCAD

You can count on it - the eXchange plugin that enables all Graphisoft ArchiCAD users to exchange data and files seamlessly with MAXON's CINEMA 4D. Now, ArchiCAD users can visualize their projects on the same level they plan them.

The file exchange offers the same rock solid dependability that has already been demonstrated by MAXON for the connections to VectorWorks and Allplan. A plugin for ArchiCAD exports all relevant objects, object classes, materials, lights and cameras to a ".ac4d" file that can be imported into CINEMA 4D with the second plugin of the eXchange package. The file is transfered with all necessary hierarchies and structures.

From ArchiCAD to CINEMA 4D

Thanks to the brand new Material eXchange plugin, also part of the eXchange package, you only need three mouseclicks to replace all (or part) of the ArchiCAD materials with photo-realistic CINEMA 4D materials. All you need to do is define a reference file for all your ArchiCAD materials once, You can then use it for any new project. Naturally, further modifications are always possible.

Now it is time to make use of the many libraries that are available for CINEMA 4D and can really make your visualization come to life. A high-quality texture library for architects is already part of the ArchiCAD eXchange set. Object libraries for cars, people, furniture, plants or streets are available from MAXON or third-party manufacturers. With these libraries at hand you can spice up your project within minutes.

If you need to rework the ArchiCAD project after a visualization has been started - don't worry. The eXchange plugin's intelligent update function compares new and old files and adds only the modifications to the visualization (such as added windows, moved walls or deleted doors). None of your previous work done in CINEMA 4D will be lost.

When it comes to the final render, CINEMA 4D can help you achieve the results you need. The image quality of the standard CINEMA 4D render engine is already outstanding - and fast. But to add even more realism you can use the optional Advanced Render module for photo-realistic effects such as Radiosity, HDRI and Depth of Field. If you prefer a more stylish or artistic approach, the Sketch and Toon module offers you all the tools you need to create pictures that look scribbled or painted. CINEMA 4D does it all, just the way you like it.