Arch Object Enabler Readme

The Architectural Object Enabler 2004a makes Autodesk Architectural Desktop 2004 objects come to life in AutoCADTM 2004, AutoCAD MapTM  2004, and AutoCAD LT 2004 (for earlier versions of these products and 3D Studio VIZ, please refer to http://www.autodesk.com/aecobjenabler for the correct version to download). This new release leverages Object DBX™ technology allowing object data created in Autodesk Architectural Desktop™ 2004 and earlier releases to be accessed outside the ADT environment.

Arch Object Enablers are freeware applications distributed to Autodesk customers at no charge for the purpose of fully accessing AEC drawing files. They enable the following Autodesk products to access the AEC objects stored in your drawings. Without this enabler installed, you can share drawings using proxy graphics representations or Export to AutoCAD.

Experience Autodesk Architectural Desktop 2004 Functionality and Flexibility with:

•	AutoCAD 2004

Receive DWG files created in Autodesk Architectural Desktop™ R1, R2, R2 DACH, R2i, 3, 3.3 and 2004.

View and modify AEC objects in Architectural Desktop DWG files using AutoCAD commands such as MOVE, COPY and STRETCH.

Improved object snap support.

Elimination of proxy graphics messages.

Supplement an office that has a mix of AutoCAD and Autodesk Architectural Desktop seats, allowing interoperability between users.

•	AutoCAD LT 2004

Receive DWG files created in Autodesk Architectural Desktop™ R1, R2, R2 DACH, R2i, 3, 3.3 and 2004.

View and modify AEC objects in Architectural Desktop DWG files using AutoCAD commands such as MOVE, COPY and STRETCH.

Improved object snap support.

Elimination of proxy graphics messages.

Supplement an office that has a mix of AutoCAD LT and Autodesk Architectural Desktop seats, allowing interoperability between users.

•	AutoCAD Map 2004

Receive DWG files created in Autodesk Architectural Desktop™ R1, R2, R2 DACH, R2i, 3, 3.3 and 2004.

View and modify AEC objects in Architectural Desktop DWG files using AutoCAD commands.

Access and query data from different drawings created in Autodesk Architectural Desktop.

•	Volo View 3 and Autodesk Express Viewer

View Autodesk Architectural Desktop drawings with "live" objects by simply dragging and dropping the dwg file into either Autodesk Express Viewer or your web browser.

View the model using the orbit view commands.

Manage the display of the design with support for Layouts and Layers.

•	Autodesk Land Desktop 2004

Combine Architectural and Civil drawings to create a unified presentation

Verify that terrain modifications match proposed building footprint

•	AutoCAD Mechanical 2004

Combine Architectural and Mechanical drawings to create a unified presentation

Verify that equipment will fit within a proposed building design

What do you want to do?

Access and install the Architectural Desktop object enabler

Share drawings using the Architectural Desktop object enabler

Overview of Proxy Graphics

Questions and Answers

Sharing Drawings with Other Users

Known Issues


Access and Install the Architectural Desktop Object Enabler

The Arch and Land Object Enablers can be downloaded from the Autodesk® website at. http://www.autodesk.com/aecobjenabler.

The installation is available as an msi installer package.


Share drawings using the AEC Object Enabler
Share Drawings using the Arch Object Enabler

The Arch Object Enabler 2004a provides an advanced level of compatibility for users of AutoCAD 2004 products to share files with AEC objects. The Enabler "wakes up" the AEC objects enabling full use of the AutoCAD environment with support for AEC multiple display representations. With the Arch Object Enabler installed you can load any file created with Autodesk Architectural Desktop into many AutoCAD products and see exactly the same object display created in Autodesk Architectural Desktop.

Use of the Arch Object Enabler can reduce or eliminate the need to store proxy graphics. File sizes are smaller, and drawing compatibility is improved. For example, an AutoCAD 2004 user can load an AEC drawing and experience exactly the same behavior of objects using object snaps or many of the standard AutoCAD commands such as MOVE, COPY or ROTATE. Installing the Arch Object Enabler will not significantly impact the performance of the host program. The Arch Object Enabler requires less than 15 MB of additional system memory. Files required will take storage space on your hard drive, and will only be accessed when AEC objects are present.


Overview of Proxy Graphics

Autodesk Architectural Desktop uses object technology to represent walls, doors, windows, stairs, roofs, and other architectural components. These objects are stored in your drawing (DWG) files. To access them, you must run Architectural Desktop or an equivalent ObjectARX® application capable of reading Autodesk's AEC objects.

Proxy graphics provide an alternative means to display objects using simple graphical representations. Objects represented as proxy graphics lack the full "intelligence" of true objects. You cannot copy a proxy object, or move a door within a wall. AutoCAD uses this mechanism for DWG file compatibility with AutoCAD (if the custom application is not loaded) and other applications which share DWG files such as 3D Studio VIZ® or Volo View®.  Depending on the complexity and density of the drawing, a drawing saved with proxy graphics turned on can become extremely large and slow drawing performance. It is recommended that you make a copy of the drawing without proxy graphics before turning them on in the drawing you want to share with other users.

Note: If you are sharing files with AutoCAD users, a better alternative to proxy graphics is to have the AutoCAD users install the Object Enabler.

To share Architectural Desktop drawings using proxy graphics successfully, it is important to understand the multiple display representations of Architectural Desktop objects and how they are stored as proxy graphics. Each object can store a single proxy representation. Therefore it is important to configure your work session to be sure the file you are saving displays correctly in the shared application.

For example a door can be displayed using a model, plan, and reflected ceiling representation. A proxy graphic of a door can be saved as one of several display representations.

What do you want to do?

Save your drawing with proxy graphics

Configure AutoCAD to display proxy graphics

Architectural Desktop Performance Tips


Save your Drawing with Proxy Graphics

To save your drawing with proxy graphics

1	At the command line, type PROXYGRAPHICS.

2	Type 1 to set the variable to true. This needs to be done one time in each drawing.

3	At the command line, type ISAVEPERCENT.

4	Type 0 to set the variable zero percent. This is a registry-based setting, so it only needs to be set once.

5	Save your drawing with the active viewport set to display the graphics to be saved as proxies.

Note: ISAVEPERCENT must be set to zero to enable consistent control of the graphical representations being saved to proxies. Failure to set this value to zero can result in mixed graphical representations saved as proxies. See also Architectural Desktop Performance Tips.


Configure AutoCAD to Display Proxy Graphics

AutoCAD® 2004 provides preferences to control the display of proxy graphics.

To configure AutoCAD to display proxy graphics

1	From the Tools menu, click Options.

2	Click the Open and Save tab.

3	In the Proxy images for custom objects dropdown, select Show proxy graphics.

4	Click OK.


Architectural Desktop Performance Tips

Architectural Desktop leverages ObjectARX® object technology. Exactly how to optimize your system depends on how you use AEC objects. If you are working exclusively with Architectural Desktop, or a combination of the Desktop plus adjacent seats of AutoCAD 2004 equipped with the Object Enabler you can significantly decrease file size and improve file operation performance by eliminating the storage of proxy graphics .

AEC objects are relatively complex compared with traditional CAD objects such as lines, arcs, and text. For example, a stair object can have hundreds of graphical primitives used in its display. Consequently object snap settings need to be set in a manner that is consistent with your performance requirements. Turning on numerous running object snap options can significantly hinder object snap performance when moving the cursor in the vicinity of stairs. This can be managed by setting and changing the AutoCAD object snap options, and also by configuring Architectural Desktop to optimize the object snap behavior of AEC objects.

What do you want to do?

Configure Architectural Desktop to not save proxy graphics

Install Arch Object Enabler on adjacent AutoCAD seats


Disable Save of Proxy Graphics

To disable proxy graphics during file save

1	At the command line, type PROXYGRAPHICS.

2	Type 0 to set the variable to false.

3	At the command line, type ISAVEPERCENT.

4	Type 50 to set the variable fifty percent (standard AutoCAD default).

Note: ISAVEPERCENT must be set to zero if proxy graphics are used. If you are not using proxy graphics, you can set ISAVEPERCENT to any value from 0 to 100.


Questions and Answers

What is Autodesk® Arch Object Enabler 2004a?

The Arch Object Enabler is a utility that gives Customers of AutoCADTM 2004, AutoCAD MapTM 2004, Autodesk Land Desktop 2004, AutoCAD Mechanical 2004, Volo View 3 and AutoCAD LT 2004 new functionality and design flexibility through the power of Autodesk Architectural Desktop™ objects. With the Arch Object Enabler 2004a, any users with these products can have full compatibility with Autodesk Architectural Desktop™ objects from 2004 and earlier releases.

Objects retain their intelligence and provide AutoCAD functionality that is nearly identical to Autodesk Architectural Desktop. For example, within AutoCAD 2004, AutoCAD commands, including OSNAP, MOVE, COPY, TRIM, EXTEND, and EXPLODE commands, are fully supported. In addition, objects provide full display characteristics including support for multiple views.

What AutoCAD 2004 commands are available with Arch Object Enabler?

When Arch Object Enabler is installed, objects respond to AutoCAD software commands the same way they do in Autodesk Architectural Desktop. Autodesk Architectural Desktop commands, however, are not available, including commands to edit object-specific properties and change object styles.

These are some of the AutoCAD commands you will be able to use specifically on Architectural Desktop objects:

•	MOVE: Objects are movable from on location to another. Automatic cleanup occurs with walls.

•	COPY: Allows creation of additional objects from within AutoCAD based on current objects in the drawing.

•	ROTATE:  Automatic cleanup where relevant.

•	ERASE: Objects delete intelligently; for example, deleting a door automatically heals the wall.

•	TRIM and EXTEND: Trim and extend objects with automatic cleanup.

•	ARRAY: Allows multiple copies of objects with automatic cleanup where relevant.

•	EXPLODE: Allows AEC objects to be exploded to create blocks.

•	OSNAP: Logical and graphic node points enabled with the object's graphical display.

•	Multiple Viewport Display: Allows viewport and display configuration to be viewed, limited to the viewport configuration saved with the original Autodesk Architectural Desktop drawing.

Most AutoCAD commands are supported in the same manner as Autodesk Architectural Desktop.

What commands are available with Arch Object Enabler and other Autodesk products?

Once installed, version 2004a of the Arch Object Enabler provides object support for AutoCAD LT 2004, and AutoCAD Map 2004. Autodesk Architectural Desktop 2004 drawings therefore act intelligently in these applications by displaying the AEC objects properly depending on the view representation. AutoCAD Map 2004 supports all the capabilities of AutoCAD 2004, plus the ability to create a working set of AEC objects from multiple DWG files.

What specific benefits does Arch Object Enabler provide to AutoCAD and AutoCAD Map users?

By allowing correct viewing and manipulation of Autodesk Architectural Desktop objects in AutoCAD 2004, you can:

•	Collaborate with colleagues using Autodesk Architectural Desktop

•	Efficiently implement a mix of AutoCAD, AutoCAD Map, and Autodesk Architectural Desktop, minimizing upgrade transition difficulty and increasing productivity

•	Experience the power of intelligent AEC objects while editing and revising architectural drawings and models

Do I have to install the Arch Object Enabler in order to view Autodesk Architectural Desktop drawings in AutoCAD or AutoCAD Map?

No. The AutoCAD proxy graphic mechanism (starting with AutoCAD R13) allows viewing of Autodesk Architectural Desktop objects in AutoCAD or other Autodesk products that can read DWG files.

How is Arch Object Enabler different from proxy graphics?

Arch Object Enabler does not replace the proxy graphics mechanism of interoperability. Proxy graphics remains a valuable "common denominator" of interoperability across the Autodesk product line. Arch Object Enabler provides a more robust level of compatibility for AutoCAD 2004 users, allowing them to benefit from the power of AEC objects. When Arch Object Enabler is installed on AutoCAD 2004, there is no proxy message displayed on opening a file that contains Architectural Desktop objects.

What additional functionality do I get with Autodesk Architectural Desktop?

Autodesk Architectural Desktop was designed for architectural design process, and provides a full suite of architectural tools. Autodesk Architectural Desktop includes conceptual modeling and planning, creation and editing of objects using right-click menus and a variety of predefined styles, and development of construction documentation using display management and layering designed for architects. Customized grips, enhanced distance entry and direct manipulation of profile based objects are new features in ADT 2004.  For more information and details visit www.autodesk.com/archdesktop.

How do I use Arch Object Enabler?

Once installed, Arch Object Enabler works automatically with your existing AutoCAD configuration. If you open a DWG file containing Autodesk Architectural Desktop objects, they are "live" and you are able to edit them directly using AutoCAD software commands. There are no menus, toolbars, or command-line features. The power of Arch Object Enabler is the ability to use existing and familiar AutoCAD commands on AEC objects without the need to learn new functionality.

Can I create intelligent objects using Arch Object Enabler on AutoCAD 2004?

There are no commands to create new objects using AutoCAD 2004 and Arch Object Enabler. Copying existing objects, however, is supported, and objects retain their intelligence. For example, a door copied from one wall to another wall automatically cuts the wall and anchors appropriately. In order to have commands to create new AEC objects and change object styles, you need the full version of Autodesk Architectural Desktop.

What are Display Configurations and how do they work with Arch Object Enabler?

Autodesk Architectural Desktop objects provide different graphic display depending on viewing direction and AutoCAD viewport settings. This allows architects and designers to configure different viewports to display objects appropriately for different uses, such as for floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, or isometric or perspective views of a 3D model. The different display configurations available in Autodesk Architectural Desktop are fully supported in Arch Object Enabler, allowing objects to respond to changes in viewing direction and respect the Display Configurations assigned to viewports in Autodesk Architectural Desktop software. Users of AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD MAP with the Arch Object Enabler will be able to select Display Configurations that have previously been established in Autodesk Architectural Desktop.  However, users will NOT be able to modify those display configurations.  See an example of several display configurations.

In order to change the active display configuration for a viewport, you should use Tools > Customize > Menus to add the AecArchXOE menu to the host AutoCAD-based program.  This menu contains a single toolbar (AEC OE), with a single button (which runs the command "AecDisplayManagerConfigSelection").  On the Model tab, or with a ModelSpace viewport active on a Layout tab, selecting this toolbar button will display a list of available display configurations, with the current one indicated by a checkmark.  Selecting a different configuration will cause a full regen of the drawing, so there may be some delay.

For example, if a DWG file is saved in Architectural Desktop with only a reflected ceiling and render display configurations, those are the only ones supported by Arch Object Enabler. Users planning on sharing their files must enable layouts and viewport configurations to meet the needs of their partners.

Note - the AecArchXOE.mnu file is located in C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Enabler\Support.

What additional commands are available with the Arch Object Enabler?

DisplayManagerConfigsSelection — allows you to specify the display configuration that will be used in the drawing.  Depending on the settings used in attached drawings, this may or may not affect the display of the Xref drawing.

SetXrefConfig — allows you to specify the display configuration that will be used in an Xref drawing.

AecFileOpenMessage — allows you to disable or enable the dialog that appears when drawings from previous versions of Architectural Desktop are opened.

ObjRelUpdate — causes AEC Objects to be completely reconstructed, which may be necessary occasionally to fix display problems.  For example, this command should be used if an Xref is moved and the walls no longer clean up properly.

AecVersion — displays the version numbers of files that comprise the Object Enabler.

-DwgUnits — allows you to specify the drawing units that will be used with the current file.  This affects how drawings are combined when inserting drawings that use different units.  For example, to combine a Land drawing that uses Feet with an Arch drawing using Inches, first change the units in the Arch drawing to Feet, then insert it into the Land drawing.

Once I download and install Arch Object Enabler, does it automatically initialize every time I launch the host program, or does it demand load?

Arch Object Enabler is a demand-loading program which only initializes when needed in AutoCAD 2004 or other supported Autodesk products. In other words, Object Enabler is not loaded in an AutoCAD 2004 session until an Autodesk Architectural Desktop drawing is opened.

You can prevent the Object Enabler from loading even if an Autodesk Architectural Desktop drawing is opened.

To disable demand loading of the Object Enabler

1.	From the Tools menu, choose Options.

2.	Click the Open and Save tab.

3.	In the Demand load ObjectARX apps drop-down list, click Command Invoke. This allows other ARX applications, such as ISM, to be loaded when an image command is used.

4.	Click OK.

How much does Arch Object Enabler cost?

Arch Object Enabler is available at no charge to use and distribute. There is no payment required before or after installation. By downloading Arch Object Enabler from the Autodesk Web site, you agree to the terms and conditions of its usage.

Is Arch Object Enabler free to distribute?

Yes; however, by downloading it from the Autodesk Web site you agree to the terms and conditions of its usage.

What limitations are there with Arch Object Enabler?

•	No AEC commands for object editing — Objects may only be edited using standard AutoCAD software commands such as Move, Copy, and Rotate. Autodesk Architectural Desktop objects viewed in AutoCAD 2004 cannot have their style and properties edited.

•	Right-click context-sensitive edit options are disabled — Autodesk Architectural Desktop allows right-clicking and editing of all objects. This is not available to AutoCAD 2004 users with Arch Object Enabler.

•	Preset display configurations — The multiple display capabilities of AEC objects are fully enabled, meaning anything that has been set up and saved in the Autodesk Architectural Desktop session is preserved, but it is not possible to modify existing configuration.

Does Arch Object Enabler 2004a include AutoCAD® Land Desktop objects?

No. There is a Land Desktop specific Object Enabler that you can download from http://www.autodesk.com/aecobjenabler.

Does Arch Object Enabler include Autodesk Mechanical Desktop® objects?

Arch Object Enabler only supports AEC objects from AutoCAD Architectural Desktop. Mechanical Desktop objects are visible using the AutoCAD proxy graphic mechanism.  There is a Mechanical Object Enabler that can be used with Volo View  which you can download from http://www.autodesk.com/aecobjenabler.

Does Arch Object Enabler include ObjectARX objects from third-party developers?

No. Arch Object Enabler only supports AEC objects from Autodesk Architectural Desktop. Many Autodesk partners support the AutoCAD proxy graphic mechanism or provide viewers for their objects at no charge. Contact the independent application developer for more information.

Are there any special requirements when uninstalling the Object Enabler?

When the Object Enabler has been installed on LDT 2004 or Civil 3D 2004, it is possible that uninstalling it will interfere with the operation of these programs.  Reinstalling the program will repair any missing files or registry entries that have been affected by uninstalling the Arch OE.


Three Display Representations of a Door
Several Display Representations of a Wall and Door

Several Display Representations of a Wall and Door


Sharing Drawings with Other Users

The full version of Autodesk Architectural Desktop provides three methods for making drawings available to users who do not have the software, of which the Arch Object Enabler is one.  The Object Enabler itself allows only one choice for saving drawings when the user who will receive them cannot install an enabler, due to the version of software they are using - Proxy Graphics.


Known Issues

•	GRIPS:  Most Architectural Desktop objects will not display any grips when they are selected in an enabled product.  This is due to the customization of individual grips for enhanced capabilities in Architectural Desktop.

•	STRETCH:  Because the stretch command relies on the normal grip behavior, most Architectural Desktop objects will not react to this command at all.

•	Stairs:  Depending on the setting of StairCalculatorLimits in the host drawing, some stairs in Xrefs may appear with a defect marker, either all the time or only during a RefEdit session.

•	Commands:  Entering one of the Object Enabler commands will not demand load the application.  First open a drawing that contains ADT objects, then commands will be available.