Structural

Submission Template
for Archicad 25

Duke Ellington School of the Arts

Architect: cox graae + spack architects | LBA Joint Venture
Photo © Chris Ambridge
 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Publishing, reproduction, paraphrasing or translation

without express prior written permission is strictly prohibited.

Trademarks
Archicad® is a registered trademark of GRAPHISOFT.
All other trademarks are the properties of their respective holders.

Credits
Courtesy of GRAPHISOFT

--- Links last accessed: October 14, 2021 ---

If you have any comments, suggestions or clarifications, please contact:

GRAPHISOFT Singapore
152 Beach Road
#10-05 Gateway East
Singapore 189721

[email protected]

Building and Construction Authority

52 Jurong Gateway Road, #11-01
Singapore 608550

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 4
ONE-MODEL CONCEPT vs. REFERENCE MODEL CONCEPT ............................................... 5
STRUCTURAL WORKFLOW ................................................................................................... 6
TEMPLATES AND PROJECT BASE FILES .............................................................................. 8
LIBRARY MANAGEMENT .................................................................................................... 12
GETTING STARTED .............................................................................................................. 13
STRUCTURAL MODELING ................................................................................................... 16
Beams .............................................................................................................................................................. 17
Slabs ................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Columns .......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Grid Systems ................................................................................................................................................. 22
Favorites.......................................................................................................................................................... 23
CORE INFORMATION (ELEMENT PROPERTIES) ............................................................... 25
WORK ENVIROMENT PROFILE ........................................................................................... 27
HOTLINKING THE ARCHITECTURAL PROJECT ................................................................. 28
PLAN REPRESENTATION AND MODELING IN THE STRUCTURAL PROJECT ............... 30
Structural Object Library ........................................................................................................................... 31
Updating Libraries ....................................................................................................................................... 32
2D Elements................................................................................................................................................... 33
Foundations ................................................................................................................................................... 34
NAVIGATOR - PROJECT MAP AND VIEW MAP................................................................ 36
Floor Plan Cut Plane and Projection Settings.................................................................................... 38
Updating the View Map ............................................................................................................................ 41
GRAPHIC OVERRIDES .......................................................................................................... 42
Structural Graphic Overrides ................................................................................................................... 43
DETAILS AND SCHEDULES.................................................................................................. 44
Details .............................................................................................................................................................. 44
Schedules ....................................................................................................................................................... 45
ATTRIBUTES ......................................................................................................................... 47
Lines ................................................................................................................................................................. 47
Layer Combinations .................................................................................................................................... 47
DOCUMENTATION .............................................................................................................. 48
Layouts and Master Layouts .................................................................................................................... 48
Project and Layout Info ............................................................................................................................. 49
Publisher ......................................................................................................................................................... 50
Submission File Format ............................................................................................................................. 52
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ........................................................................................................ 54

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this document is to assist structural engineers in developing BIM models
collaboratively based on both the Reference Model and One-Model Concepts.

This is a generic reference and shall not be considered as an extensive document including
all project cases. The template and actual workflows may be changed based on certain
scenarios and the users are recommended to audit and revise their workflows from project
to project.

This document is focusing on the use of GRAPHISOFT Archicad 25 with regard to the
requirements of BIM collaboration and it does not include the explanation of Archicad
terms in general.

Though the solutions demonstrated in this guide are aligned with the specifications of the
Singapore BIM e-Submission Guidelines and Code of Practice, the users are required to
check the actual requirements and GRAPHISOFT shall not be held responsible for non-
compliance.

Architectural project delivery and submission is not covered in this document, for details
refer to the relevant Archicad templates and guides available at the CORENET website.

The current version of the template and its user guide is under constant development and
updates may be available at a later time.

Find the BIM e-Submission Templates and Guidelines at the CORENET website here:
https://www.corenet.gov.sg/general/building-information-modeling-(bim)-e-
submission.aspx

Find the Archicad Libraries for each template on the GRAPHISOFT SG website here:
(requires GRAPHISOFT ID and SSA license to log in)
https://graphisoft.com/sg/ssa/downloads

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

ONE-MODEL CONCEPT vs. REFERENCE MODEL CONCEPT

Compared to the Reference Model Concept where each discipline is able to edit and modify
its own model only while using the others’ models as protected references alongside their
own, the One-Model Concept allows different disciplines to work on one central model.
The members of these disciplines have different access rights to edit elements and
properties depending on their role in the project.

The One-Model Concept can be followed in case all three disciplines (architects,
structural engineers and MEP engineers) are using Archicad as the BIM authoring tool.

Working with the One-Model Concept does not mean that there are no links in the
project or that there is only one single project file for the modeling and
documentation.
Creating modules/groups improves the workflow for example by the easier
management of repetitive parts. It also helps by separating the work areas of disciplines
if needed, for example in case of combined models of architects and MEP engineers where
the two disciplines usually should not change the other domain.
In case of collaboration between architects and structural engineers however, it is
necessary that the structural team has access to certain elements that were originally
defined by the architects (beams, columns, etc.) for refinement. These refinements are
done on the architectural elements directly by the structural engineers with the One-
Model Concept.

The One-Model Concept may also have file separation for documentation purposes or
performance optimization.

Since the architectural model can be used for structural purposes, modeling time is
significantly shorter when compared to reference modeling, however since the
representation requirements are the same, the differences between the two methods
require more preparation on the workflows and not the actual modeling work/element
settings or documentation process. Hence this guide can be used as a generic reference
for both one-model and reference model workflows.

Note: No IFC file exchange is necessary when using the One-Model Concept
compared to the Reference Model Concept.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

STRUCTURAL WORKFLOW

In regular reference-based workflows the structural team provides design consultation

during the Conceptual Design stage and is not expected to create BIM content until the
Preliminary Design stage.
In the One-Model Concept however, no additional modeling of existing elements is
needed since the architectural elements are directly accessible - the structural modeling
and core information aspects can be set by the structural team in the early phases,
shortening the overall project delivery time.

1 The architectural team prepares the block file, which includes certain structural
elements, like Slabs, Columns and Beams.

2 The structural team (marked with red in the diagram below) has access to the
core information of these elements and can change the dimensions as well.
Typically, only a few members of the structural team should have access to the
architectural teamwork projects.
Depending on the project setup, the structural team member will most likely have
access to the architectural unit files as well, since structural elements will also be
included at that level.

3 The architecturally complete block is hotlinked into a structural base project.

The block is linked as a whole teamwork project, there is no need to publish MOD
or PLN files.

Note: To avoid discrepancies between attributes within each file, it is recommended to set
up and use a Project Base File or a template with common attributes if such hotlinking
occurs. The preparation of these base files is the scope of the BIM Manager. Any interim
changes to the attributes should be thoroughly carried out in all related project files.

4 The structural team will complete the architectural model with structural
elements, typically by adding:
• roof story structures
• roof levels - these should have been defined in the architectural file already
• foundations
Otherwise the architectural model is not edited. If some editing is still needed it
will be done in the architectural block file.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

5 The structural team then completes the documentation in the structural block
file, which is a regular teamwork project.
During the import of the architectural model (including its documentation and
annotation elements) unnecessary content will be created that the structural team
will have to filter by Layers for example.

6 The structural Documentation Set is produced from the structural block

file/teamwork project.

Example of workflow:

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

TEMPLATES AND PROJECT BASE FILES

Project Base Files can be created based on the existing company templates or the
templates discussed in this document before the project starts.

The Project Base File allows the different teams to link the model portions smoothly.
Usually, the structural and MEP teams use the empty architectural file as a base to
inherit their settings and update their templates for the actual project.

1 The BIM Manager should collect the templates for all the disciplines. These are
generic templates.

2 As the architectural team leads the project development, they set the base design
and update their template for the actual project (ARCHI Template).

3 The structural and MEP teams will use this new template as a reference to set
the same framework for their projects (STR Template and MEP Template. These
template files are stored in a common folder on the company File Server.

4 The new templates will be used for solo Archicad files, which can be shared to
the BIMcloud later. These solo files can still reside on the File Server.

5 Share the architectural solo Base File and start working on the Teamwork Project.

6 Meanwhile the structural and MEP teams also create a solo Base File based on
their updated templates.

7 The structural and MEP teams share their Base File to the BIMcloud to make it a
Teamwork Project.

8 The structural and MEP teams hotlink the architectural projects into their
Teamwork Projects.

9 All disciplines work on their own projects and create the relevant Documentation
Sets onwards.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Example 1 of file structure and workflow.

Based on hotlinking to Architectural Model.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Example 2 of file structure and workflow.

Based on an Integrated Model approach between Architectural and Structural teams.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

The following are necessary to be defined in the Project Base Files/Templates:

• Project Location - based on surveyors' input (external drawings, list of coordinates,

point cloud surveys, etc.).

• Story Settings - when content is hotlinked in Archicad via the File/External

Content/Place Hotlink command, check the Elements’ Elevation settings and
choose to:

o Adjust Elevation… when the hotlink’s story heights should adjust to the
host’s story heights, or
o Keep Elevation… when the hotlink’s story height should remain intact, and
not adjust to the host’s story heights.

It is advised to coordinate the story heights between all linked files, to avoid any
mismatch or overlapping elements. The setup of Stories is a process done in each
file as they cannot be imported. Once created, make sure that affected View
Map Cloned Folders are updated with the IDs and Names.

• Element Attributes - to ensure that content shows the same in all linked files, any
newly created attributes have to be careful added and synchronized in all project
files.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

LIBRARY MANAGEMENT

The original downloaded libraries are placed onto the company file servers. These will
be uploaded to BIMcloud, then accessed and loaded by Archicad. When sharing a solo
project with the libraries attached, these libraries will also share (and upload) to the
BIMcloud if they weren’t uploaded previously.

1 To add these libraries to BIMcloud, go to File/Libraries and Objects/Manage

BIMcloud Libraries... in Archicad.

2 Log in and select the correct BIMcloud from the popup control, with the
appropriate logged in user.

3 Click the icon button Upload a local Library to the BIMcloud to browse the
downloaded libraries on the file servers to add into the BIMcloud.

4 Click Choose once the library/folder on the file server is selected, this will upload
the selection to BIMcloud.

5 Close the Manage BIMcloud Libraries dialog once all libraries have been uploaded.

6 To add these BIMcloud libraries to an active Teamwork project, go to File/Libraries

and Objects/Library Manager…

7 Reserve the Library Manager dialog, and click Add – this will open the Choose
BIMcloud Libraries dialog

8 Select the previously uploaded Libraries, and click Add, to add these libraries to the
current Teamwork Project

Note: After the libraries are uploaded to the BIMcloud, the originals on the file server will
remain offline and untouched.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

GETTING STARTED

Once you have downloaded the template from the CORENET website, do the following
preparations before using the template for the first time.

1 Place the sg_str-submission-template_v25.tpl file to:

Option 1: On your file server in a dedicated template folder. Then in Archicad 25
New dialogue, use “Browse” and load this template. If the path or name changes,
then you’ll need to browse again to load this template again.
Option 2: Copy the template to the Archicad application folder, the template will
auto load into the New dialogue when you start the application. This folder is
usually located at
C:/Program Files/GRAPHISOFT/ARCHICAD 25/Defaults/ARCHICAD.

2 Place the GSSG STR Library.lcf library container file into a folder where it will not
be modified/moved/deleted, such as a company file server. There are following
sections that will go into this in more detail.

3 Launch GRAPHISOFT Archicad 25 using the desktop shortcuts.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

4 The Start Archicad 25 dialog appears, choose New… at the top of the dialog.

5 Click into the dropdown list and use the Browse Template... option to locate the
sg_str-submission-template_v25.tpl template file.

6 Choose the Architectural Profile 25 Work Environment and click New.

If it is the first time, the option will not be there. Use STR Engineering Profile 25.
Once opened, load SG STR Engineering Profile 25 that comes together with the
template via the menu Options/Work Environment/Work Environment… To
understand how to do it, check the section Restore From an Exported Backup in
the article https://community.graphisoft.com/t5/Project-Management-
articles/Exporting-Storing-Restoring-Your-Work-Environment/ta-p/303835

Note 1: To ensure the authenticity of the downloaded template file, make sure you obtain
it from the CORENET BIM e-Submission site:
https://corenet.gov.sg/general/building-information-modeling-(bim)-e-
submission.aspx

Note 2: The template is constantly improved based on user feedback, therefore minor
differences may occur between the actual version and the screenshots presented in this
guide. Only the latest versions of the template are available on CORENET.
The naming of the template file indicates the updates and revisions, such as
...template_v25.tpl for the initial version, then ...template_v25.1.tpl,
...template_v25.2.tpl, etc., if available subsequently.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

7 Once Archicad 25 is launched, it will not prompt for missing libraries as all warnings
are collated into the Action Center, therefore go to File/Libraries and
Objects/Library Manager… to check if GSSG STR Library.lcf are linked to the
project. If not, then you need to Add them.

8 Click Add.... Locate the LCF file and click Open.

9 Click OK to close the Library Manager and load the libraries.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

STRUCTURAL MODELING

The architectural and structural plans need two significantly different representations of
the same elements. Archicad has various options to achieve the desired views, which can
be used based on their pros and cons, and project. The display methods can also be
combined within a project.

The following settings can be carried out in the architectural project by the key members
of the structural team by logging in to the Teamwork project or can be done in individual
structural consultants' projects without any architectural elements linked.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Beams

1 When modelling Beams, they should be placed correctly with the home story and
elevation set as per structural requirements – at the story and structural slab level,
not at the ceiling level of its home story.

2 The Archicad Default and stored structural Favorite are set to ensure proper
representation of Beams.

Note 1: The Structural Elements Settings Worksheet contains a summary of the different
Favorites settings for reference.

Note 2: Beams are set with Show on Stories: All Relevant Stories option, which is the
default setting. The Show on Stories: Home Story Only setting in the structural project
might seem to be a good solution, but it will spoil the architectural representation.
It is not recommended to use, only in projects where the architects are not required to
show beams on their plans.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

The listed/scheduled length of Beams is based on the length of their Reference Lines,
usually modeled as a single Beam above a set of columns by the architects.

At the same time the structural team would model the Beams starting and finishing by
the edge of the columns to get real lengths.

To fulfil both requirements:

3a If modeling in an 'architectural' way:
o model continuous Beams as one
o either send the Beams backward or Send to Back or bring the Columns
forward
o bring the Grids to the Front

3b If modeling in a 'structural' way:

o model the Beams in between the Columns as separate elements

3c Modeling with a combined method:

o model the Beams from one Column center point to another, but as
separate elements
o send the Beams backward or Send to Back or bring the Columns forward
o bring the Grids to the Front

Example of the previous three methods:

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

When Beam Floor Plan representation is set to Symbolic, they do not follow the Priority-
Based Connections in the floor plan representation, this should be corrected with the
Display Order settings or switch the Beam’s Floor Plan representation to Projected.
See 'before' and 'after' states on the screenshot below.

Beams that are covered by Slabs will be displayed automatically as dashed or solid
depending on their covering, when the Model View Options Hidden Line under Slab option
is checked.

4 Additional STR | ... Properties to be filled out according to submission

requirements.

5 Set the Layers as needed.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Slabs

Slabs on the Floor Plan have to be shown as transparent on structural plans, but since
they are set by the architectural team, they are likely to have a Cover Fill on top. This Cover
Fill is visible even when using the Core of Load-Bearing Elements Only setting for the
Partial Structure Display. This Cover Fill can be turned off by using Graphic Overrides,
overriding the Slab Cover Fills to be Transparent.

Even though the architectural model is likely to be hotlinked into a structural project, some
structural team members can edit those elements in the architectural project source. Any
changes to these elements should be coordinated with the architectural team, as
changes may modify the representation of the elements in the architectural
documentation. As described earlier, any attribute changes in one file should be
transferred into all other connected files – such as edits to Building Materials.

The following settings can be carried out in the architectural project by the key members
of the structural team by logging in to the Teamwork project or can be done in individual
structural consultants' projects without any architectural elements linked.

1 Use the stored structural Favorite to ensure proper representation of elements.

2 Make sure to set the Slab Structural Function to Load-Bearing Element.

3 Additional STR | ... Properties to be filled out according to submission

requirements.

4 Set the Layers as needed.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Columns

Columns are also to be modeled with certain predefined settings. Regular columns
show solid cut lines on plans, unless that column is on a topmost floor or if it is not
covered by slabs, for example it is part of a frame. In a collaborative workflow, the
Columns created by the architectural team will have to be completed by defining some
Properties.

The following settings can be carried out in the architectural project by the key members
of the structural team by logging in to the Teamwork project or can be done in individual
structural consultants' projects without any architectural elements linked.

1 Use the stored structural Favorite to ensure proper representation of elements.

2 Make sure to set the Column Structural Function to Load-Bearing Element.

3 Additional STR | ... Properties to be filled out according to submission

requirements.

4 Set the Layers as needed.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Grid Systems

Depending on the chosen workflow, Grids can be defined in two ways for structural
representation. As they have already been defined or placed by the architectural team,
below is an overview on the effects in the structural project.

• Structural Plan Views with Graphic Overrides:

o Place the Grids onto one Story viewpoint, such as the Platform Level or the
1st Storey in the architectural project.
o Use the Show on Stories: All Stories setting.
o Make sure that the Graphic Overrides of the structural project will
include the colour override for the Grids if needed.

Note: Optional Graphic Overrides for Grids are not part of the template.

If the architectural team has already defined the Grids - which is likely and
recommended – then the structural team only needs to use Graphic Overrides if
necessary, to override the colours or Line on the regular structural floor plan Views.

Alternatively, the structural team may decide to place their own Grids for creating
their structural plans. This means no difference compared to the methods used in the
architectural projects.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Favorites

The structural (and architectural) templates both include structural Favorites for the
convenience of the structural modelers as shown in the examples above as well.

If the practice is using the one-model concept then these Favorites will be needed in
the architectural project, otherwise - with the reference model workflow - the structural
model will be built separately from the architectural model and the Favorites will be used
in the structural template directly.

The Favorites store settings of building elements and annotation elements that relate to
the content and libraries that are provided with this template.

The Favorites are organized into the following hierarchy (in the structural template):

• Defaults & Legacy Favorites - contains a portion of the architectural Favorites and
generic default settings:
o Archicad 25 Default Favorites - These Favorites come with the factory
default template of Archicad, they can be deleted
o Element Default Settings - stores the initial element settings (if available)
o Legacy Archicad 22 Structural Favorites – the collection of previously used
Favorites, for migrated projects only, they can be deleted

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

• Favorites (root folder) - relevant Favorites for structural modeling and

documentation:
o Borehole Object - needs to be placed separately for structural submission
o Fill - Cast In-Situ Area in Slab - for distinguishing CIS areas of Slabs
o Grid - Generic - Grid to be placed natively in the structural project (when not
using the linked architectural Grid)
o Label - Beam Profile Size (H) - displays the profile dimensions with a
horizontal text
o Label - Beam Profile Size (V) - displays the profile dimensions with a
vertical text
o Label - Beam Tag (by Element ID - WxH) - automatically displays a
complex tag, based on an IFC Property, showing the Element ID as the
identifier
o Label - Beam Tag (by Marking - WxH) - automatically displays a complex
tag, based on an IFC Property, showing the STR | Core Information/Beam
Marking Property as the identifier
o Label - Column Profile Size (45) - displays the profile dimensions with a 45-
degree tag
o Label - Column Tag (Marking, Gk, Qk) - displays the STR | Core
Information/Column Marking Property and the STR | Annotations/Gk and Qk
values
o Label - Load-Bearing Symbol - displays the thickness of the Core of the
Slab with two-way load-bearing direction
o Label - Slab Thickness - displays the thickness of the of the Slab
o Label - Structural Detail Marker - draws a circular Detail Marker and
displays the Reference ID of the Marker.
o LB Beam - regular Beams which are covered by Slabs, most Beams will have
these settings
o LB Column - sets the required Properties of regular Columns which are
covered by another Column and/or Slab above
o LB Pile – places piling object
o LB Roof - generic structural default
o LB Slab - generic structural default
o LB Wall (Generic Storey, Covered) - default for placing regular load-
bearing walls on generic storeys
o LB Wall (Topmost Storey, Covered) - default for placing regular load-
bearing walls on the topmost storey.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

CORE INFORMATION (ELEMENT PROPERTIES)

The Structural Requirements (from the BIM e-Submission portal) has several required Core
Information properties that have to be defined for submission. Since the elements having
the properties are part of the architectural model, any editing requires the structural
team members to log in to the architectural Teamwork project and edit the
properties there. The properties are also used in schedules besides the COP requirements,
see details in the Details and Schedules/Schedules chapter.

1 Go to Options/Element Attributes/Property Manager... to see the available

properties (in both architectural and structural projects).

There are two main types of properties available in the structural template on their own (so
they can be used directly in case the user works with the reference model workflow and
builds the structural model independently from the architecture), differentiated by their
prefixes:

• STR | - required to be filled out correctly for submission. These are also present
in the architectural template partially to be filled out for schedules by the structural
team.

When hotlinking the architectural model into the structural project, the architectural
Properties will be shown in the structural file. These are prefixed by:

• ARCH | - the Properties used for the architectural native BIM submission. These
Properties will be irrelevant for the structural workflow.

Note: Properties are not considered as Element Attributes and are identified by the
Groups they are in and their Names, not by Index Number.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

These imported properties will be greyed out, like other settings of hotlinked modules,
they are not editable in the host file. To edit, open the source file to make changes.

It is possible to fully import the properties from the module by clicking the Merge
icon on the right, next to the name of the property. This way the property will be available
in the host file as well and it can be set for native elements of the host file. Merging does
not change any property values set in the module file itself, the connection to the
external file for the property will be broken.

If a linked property has different settings than in the host file (for example the value is
General in the module, but Option Set in the host) then it can be highlighted as a conflict
by checking the Show conflicts with Properties in Hotlinks checkbox. Merging the
properties will override the host file property settings.

Find more info on Properties in Hotlinks

at the GRAPHISOFT Help Center here:
https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide/137197/

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

WORK ENVIRONMENT PROFILES

To help with work efficiency, the STR team might further customise Work Environment
Profiles to provide an interface, for example to show the relevant tools only.

Along with the STR template, an STR Work Environment has been developed, to show the
most useful and needed tools. This is already discussed in item 6 of Getting Started.

These Work Environment profiles can be imported into Archicad via the Options/Work
Environment/Work Environment... command. Click Import... to browse and import the
relevant folder containing the profiles.

Note: Work Environments are individual preferences of each computer/user, therefore

cannot be managed centrally. All users have to import/create them for themselves.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

HOTLINKING THE ARCHITECTURAL PROJECT

Once the architectural elements are ready for documentation, it can be hotlinked into the
structural project. Assuming that the Structural Template has also been modified as per the
base settings of the architectural project, the Structural Project Base File is also ready for
sharing. In a Teamwork environment the following steps are required:

1 Open the Structural Base File (TPL or PLN format) in Archicad as an offline file and
verify that it has the same settings (such as Attributes) as the architectural
project. Do not load any additional Libraries other than the default Archicad
Library and the Structural Object Library.

2 Go to Teamwork/Project/Share..., name the project accordingly to the company

standards and share it. The file will be uploaded, and the linked Libraries will
also be shared on the first occasion when they are shared. In subsequent cases
Archicad will detect if the Libraries are already present on the server and will
use those instead of re-uploading new libraries.

3 Go to File/Libraries and Objects/Library Manager... and review the Libraries, to

make sure there are no missing objects or libraries.
For example, Archicad 25 Library, GSSG Libraries and any custom company libraries
should be loaded.

Note: Usually all the discipline projects would reside on the same server. In case they are
hosted on separate servers, make sure that the offline Libraries are located on the
same location of the file server to ensure easier update of the uploaded library content.

4 Go to a plan view in the structural project and insert the module via the
File/External Content/Place Hotlink... command.

5 Make sure that the Master ID and Master Layer are defined for each module to
make filtering easier later.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Note: Master ID will add a prefix to the ID that is set in the Element Settings dialog
(Compact ID). The Master ID and the Compact ID together will result in the Full Element ID.
All elements in the module will get the Master ID prefix when linked, the source will
preserve the Compact IDs of course.

6 Choose Hotlink from Teamwork file in case of the architectural block. Click Place
Module when finished with the setup.

7 Insert all stories, make sure to match the correct ones.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

PLAN REPRESENTATION
AND MODELING IN THE STRUCTURAL PROJECT

Once the architectural model is inserted, the predefined Views in the Navigator should
show the proper representation of the elements on the generic stories. The structural team
has to complete the project by:

• modeling the foundations

• completing the Roof Storey and 1st Storey

• creating Details

• creating Schedules

• assembling the Documentation Set

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Structural Object Library

GRAPHISOFT Singapore provides custom, localized content for its users with a software
service agreement (SSA). The library contains various elements, which will be presented in
the following chapters.

The library is named GSSG STR Library and has a uniform _GSSG ending for all included
Objects.

Find the GSSG Libraries on the GRAPHISOFT Singapore website here:

https://graphisoft.com/sg/ssa/

Once loaded, the Library Manager shows three main folders and subfolders within the
Library:

• 2D Objects
o Graphic Symbols
o Marker Symbols

• Foundation

• STR Macros & UI (contains non-placeable objects, used by other objects in Library)

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Updating Libraries

The custom office library might change frequently by new Objects being added to it in
the early project phases or during the implementation process. These updates should be
distributed to the Teamwork users and projects regularly.

The updated/new objects should be replaced on the file server first. Then the updated
folders have to be uploaded to the server. The BIMcloud libraries can be easily updated
without deleting and re-uploading existing libraries.

1 Go to Files/Libraries and Objects/Manage BIMcloud Libraries... in Archicad.

2 Select the BIMcloud library you wish to update and click the icon button Update
BIMcloud Libraries with a local Library....

Note: If the user has the necessary access rights then there is no need to reserve in order
to update the libraries.

3 Browse the updated library on the file server and click Choose. An information
message will appear indicating the number of objects changed (such as new,
deleted or if library is already up to date)

4 Click Close and Reload when prompted. The new Objects are ready to use.

5 As with newly uploaded libraries, notify users to Receive.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

2D Elements

The following Library Parts, can be used for structural annotations of plans and drawings:

Library Part Usage Tool

Mark the edges of drawings on Layouts.

Breakline (layout) Object
The size can be set in paper space sizes.

Mark the edges of drawings in the Views/Viewpoints

Breakline (model
already before placing them onto Layouts. Object
space)
The size can be set in model space sizes.

Detail Marker Create new Detail Viewpoints using this Marker

Detail
(circular) Head.

Load-Bearing Show the span directions, thickness and any Element

Label
Direction Symbol Property or IFC Property values of Slabs.

Reinforcement For generic annotation purposes of reinforcement. Object

Slab Slope For annotation purposes of Slabs. Object

Top Steel For generic annotation purposes of reinforcement. Object

Top Steel (2) For generic annotation purposes of reinforcement. Object

Tramming Bar For generic annotation purposes of reinforcement. Object

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Foundations

The pile Objects are for modeling purposes. Since structural representation requires
specific presentation of such substructures, it is recommended to use these Objects,
instead of modeling the piles and pile caps using traditional tools, like Slabs and Columns.

The pile cap and pile layout plans will be created as normal 2D floor plan Views, even
if the typical storey floor plans are done using 3D Documents.

1 Open the Object Tool settings and browse for the pile Objects.

2 Select the desired combination of piles:

o Pile - single pile without a pile cap

o Pile Cap with One Row of Piles - multiple piles under a common pile cap in
a single row
o Pile Cap with Two Rows of Piles - multiple piles under a common pile cap
in two rows
o Pile Cap with Three Rows of Piles - multiple piles under a common pile cap
in three rows
o Triangular Pile Cap - three piles under a common 'triangular' pile cap

The number of piles per rows can be set for all the Pile Cap Objects.

3 Place the objects onto the -1. Foundation 1 storey, using the following settings:

o Bottom Offset to Home Story equals Pile Cap/Depth

The value can be calculated be the following formula:

Pile Cap Depth = F1 - (Slab - PL)

(example in the template: 850 = 1000 - (200 - 50))

▪ F1: height of -1. Foundations 1 storey

▪ Slab: Thickness of the Slab Core
▪ PL: height of Platform Level

o Pile Settings/Pile Depth equals the storey height of

-2. Foundations 2 storey

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

4 Set Pile Type under the Pile Settings and fill the Core Information Properties at the
bottom of the settings dialog.

5 Check the following settings:

Element Classification = Footing
Structural Function = Load-Bearing Element
Layer = S-_PCAP----_E-.

Note: The pile caps are inserted by the top anchor points.

6 Place the Object and adjust the position of the numbers using the pink hotspots if
necessary.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

NAVIGATOR - PROJECT MAP AND VIEW MAP

The Project Map contains sample Stories, Sections, Elevation, Worksheets, 3D Documents
and Schedules to start with.

The View Map has the following folder structure:

• S | 3D (Load-Bearing Elements) - Partial Structure Display filters the view to show

Load-Bearing Elements Only.

• REFERENCE VIEWS - These views show the architectural representation

(overhead Beams shown with dashed lines) of the plans for a reference only
(since these views are only available in the architectural project otherwise) and
overall 3D views to provide a better overall understanding of the project. This folder
can be deleted from the structural template.
o A | FLOOR PLANS - These plans have View Settings very similar to the
default Archicad settings with all Layers turned on and an extended
architectural Pen Set, originally used for the architectural native BIM
submission. The Floor Plan Cut Plane settings are kept as defaults as well.
o A | 3D (Entire Model) - Generic 3D view, without Zones for better
understanding the architecture.
o A | 3D (Simplified) - Similar to the previous one.

• S | WORKING VIEWS - This folder has a structure for Stories, Sections and
Elevations:
o STRU_FP_... plan views for creating the model
o SITE PLANS folder – Site plan from the architectures drawings can be linked
to this view showing at least the Grid and boundary details of the project. Set
the Site plan view to True North, while the rest of the views are set to Project
North.
o GA PLANS folder - Generic storey plans to show the common areas.
In housing projects created for pile layout, pilecaps separately, 1st storey,
typical and roof storeys.
Except the foundation plans, all storeys have two Views to show
annotations of top and bottom reinforcements separately.
This folder is not Cloned as it would not be effective due to the large
number of identical typical plans.
The pile cap plan also has its own MVO Settings.
o UNIT PLANS folder - Similarly to the generic storeys, top and bottom
reinforcement Views are available for units.
o SECTIONS – cloned folder
o ELEVATIONS – cloned folder

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

o DETAILS – cloned folder

o 3D DOCUMENTS - samples of plan views, cloned folder, as the GA PLANS
and UNITS folder above but created with the 3D Document feature of
Archicad. This content can be deleted.
o SCHEDULES folder
o COVER PAGE folder

Views in Cloned Folders are automatically created with the preset View Settings, whenever
new viewpoints are created in the Project Map.

The initial View Map structure is merely a sample that can be changed and/or
completed according to actual project needs:

1 Create new regular folders using the New Folder... button.

2 Select an item to create a folder inside it. Use the Clone a Folder... button to
choose a viewpoint folder from the Project Map and set its View Settings.

When creating a Cloned Folder, all viewpoints of the referred Project Map section will
be cloned. There is no option to remove certain cloned Views while keeping others in
the View Map, therefore consider the need of cloning to avoid the unnecessary number of
Views and to keep their number to the necessary minimum to provide a simpler structure
and to avoid performance issues.
The decisions above should be made by the BIM Manager after consulting the project
team before actual work begins

Find more details on the Cloning a Folder

on the GRAPHISOFT Help Center here:
https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide/136802/

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Floor Plan Cut Plane and Projection Settings

As a generic reference, find the Floor Plan Cut Plane settings of architectural and structural
views below. Depending on the actual Story Settings and the heights of elements
these settings might have to be revised.

To check the View Settings of the actual Views:

1 Select a View, multiple Views or Cloned Folder.

2 Right-click and select View Settings....

3 Go to Floor Plan Cut Plane Settings....

o The architectural plan views use the default Archicad settings:

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

o The structural plan views offset the view range downward. Depending on the
size of actual elements (typically Beams) and story heights the preset values
might be adjusted. The ranges above and below the stories should equal the
story height when added up.

Find more details on the Floor Plan Cut Plane

on the GRAPHISOFT Help Center here:
https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide/137207/

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

To check the settings of the 3D Documents:

1 Select a View, multiple Views or Cloned Folder.

2 Right-click and select 3D Document Settings....

3 Go to the Floor Plan Projection panel.

o Define the cut plane and offset by adjusting Offset below the Source Story.
This can be adjusted depending on the actual element sizes.

Find more details on the 3D Document Settings

on the GRAPHISOFT Help Center here:
https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide/137961/

Copyright © Building and Construction Authority, 2021. All rights reserved. 40

 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Updating the View Map

When creating Cloned Folders, any settings for individual Views inside that folder can
be set manually and override from the initial clone.

1 Select the necessary Views (not the folders!), right-click and choose View
Settings....

2 Make sure the ID type is set to Custom and define the IDs

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

GRAPHIC OVERRIDES

The following Graphic Override Rules and Combinations are available in the structural
template:

• Combinations and Rules with the prefix AC25 | are the defaults coming from the
factory template of Archicad. The Combinations can be deleted from the
structural file, but some of the Rules are used for structural Combinations as
well - deleting these will change the representation.

• S | prefixed Combinations must be used for the correct structural representation

if using the Graphic Overrides version.

• Unmarked Combinations/Rules are present in all discipline templates.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Structural Graphic Overrides

The following Graphic Override Combinations and Rules are provided for structural
representation:

• S | HLM References - Shows hotlinks with transparent 3D.

o Hotlinked Module - Source 1…5 – These are sample rules for 5 different
modules that the user can customize.

• S | Plans - Must be used for correct structural representation.

o S | Walls - Pen override on outlines.
o S | Slabs with Transparent Cover Fills - Slab Cover Fills are overridden to
transparent fills.
o S | All Cut Fills - Solid White - Creates an empty fill for cut elements (Walls
and Columns typically).

• S | Details - Changes the fills to transparent and the lines to black, includes the
following Rules:
o AC25 | All Cover Fills - Transparent
o AC25 | All Cut Fills - Transparent
o AC25 | All Zone Fills – Transparent

• S | For Architectural Reference Only - Generic checking option for the structural
team to see the regular architectural representation with the overhead beams
shown.
o S | Beam Outlines in Architectural View - Beam outlines are overridden to
dashed lines.

• S | Key Elements Highlights - Shows the marked key elements with the required
colours according to the structural code of practice, marking is set using Properties.
o S | Key Elements - Cantilever
o S | Key Elements - Long Span Structure
o S | Key Elements - Transfer Structures
o S | Key Elements - Permanent ERSS

• S | Schedules - Shows all details that are inserted into the Plan Previews cells of the
Schedules with transparent fills.
o AC25 | All Cut Fills - Transparent

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

DETAILS AND SCHEDULES

Details

Details can be created in a hybrid workflow, the Viewpoints are generated from the
model, while the actual Details are completed using the 2D documentation tools of
Archicad.

1 Choose the Detail tool and apply the Label - Structural Detail Marker Favorite

2 Set the Reference ID according to the company naming standards.

3 Set the attributes of the Marker under the Marker panel.

4 The Marker Angle options will either keep the Marker fixed to the screen or fixed
to the model – select the necessary option based on needs.

5 Place the Marker and open the new Detail Viewpoint generated from the model.

Use regular 2D tools to annotate (Dimension, Text, Label) and to draft (Fill, Line.
Arc/Circle, Polyline). Draw rebars manually.

Note: To make this process faster, graphical favorites can be created on Worksheets,
similar to blocks in AutoCAD for regular bars, stirrups, tramming bars, etc.

6 To edit these elements, use the editing commands on the Standard Toolbar:

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Schedules

The STR template includes sample schedules for Beams, Columns and Key Elements.
These samples cannot be used as is, as their actual setup is determined by the actual
projects and their Hotlinked Modules names.

To setup the schedules in a hotlinked workflow:

1 Log in to the architectural Teamwork project first.

2 Edit the relevant properties (Core Information, Reinforcement, etc.) you wish to
list.

3 Go back to the structural project and update the Hotlinked Modules. The
properties will also be updated, reflecting the latest state in the schedules.

During the project, there will likely be changes and therefore updates have to be added
to the architectural project again due to hotlinking.

The structural engineers are likely to use Microsoft Excel for analysis, therefore the
structural properties have to be exported to Excel. These schedules are not available in
the architectural project (even though the properties are) therefore, to transfer the
schedules from the structural project to the architectural project they need to be
exported:

4 Go to the Scheme Settings, select the schedules to Export, and click the export
icon to generate an XML file per selected schedule.

5 Switch to the architectural project and open the Scheme Settings and click the
Import icon and select the previously exported XML files. Once imported, the
properties in the schedule are ready for smart export to Excel.

Note: Smart export to Excel (exporting Element Properties) is not possible without having
the necessary properties listed in a schedule.

6 Go to File/Interoperability/Classifications and Properties/Export Property

Values from Schedule...

7 Save the selected scheme to an Excel file, then open it.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

8 Update the required fields in Excel and save a new file. It is recommended not to
overwrite the imported file to be able to track changes later if necessary.

Note: The updated data must be in the same format (General, Integer, Number, Tags
List, Option Set, Tags List or True/False) as it was defined in Archicad originally,
otherwise the Property Manager in the structural file will prompt for conflicts with Hotlinks.

9 Switch to the architectural project in Archicad.

10 Go to File/Interoperability/Classifications and Properties/Import Property

Values into Elements...

11 Check the report, if there are any warnings, correct the Excel file (usually format
conflicts due to misspelling and typos), otherwise Import.

12 Send and Receive changes, then switch to the structural project.

13 Go to File/External Content/Hotlink Manager... and update the source of the

architectural project. The new values will appear in the structural schedules.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

ATTRIBUTES
Lines

The following Line types were included in the structural template. These are to be used for
the Graphic Overrides of the plan Views.

• STR | Hidden Line (Plans) - This line is used to override the covered Columns
below the current story with the S | Plans Graphic Override. The Line type has a
smaller scale then the default dashed/hidden lines so that it is visible with relatively
smaller geometries.

• STR | Hidden Line (Architecture Only) - Only used for the architectural reference
views. Can be deleted along with the related Views and the Graphic Overrides.

• STR | Invisible Line - Used for hiding the overhead Beams on structural plans
only.

Layer Combinations

The Layer Combinations use the naming convention introduced in previous chapters.
Also refer to the Architectural BIM Submission Template User Guide for further details on
Attributes in general.

• S | prefix marks the required for structural representation

• unmarked items are generic, available in all discipline templates

The following Layer Combinations are present in the structural template as a base by
purpose (listed in alphabetical order in the Layer Settings):

• Generic purpose:
o All Visible Shown Editable - shows all Layers turned on

• For actual annotated plans there are specific Layer Combinations for separating
annotations for bottom and top reinforcements.
o S | Pile Cap Plan
o S | Pile Layout Plan
o S | Slab BOT & Beam - includes the bottom reinforcement of Slabs and all
Beam reinforcement
o S | Slab TOP- includes the top reinforcement of Slabs

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

DOCUMENTATION
Layouts and Master Layouts

The structural Layout Book includes some mandatory items and samples for customization
as follows:

• COVER PAGE - Required for submission, this Layout includes Project Information
and the list of drawings for approval and reference.
• S | 01 Sample Subset - Samples of structural and architectural layouts, the users
have to create their own based on their company standards. This folder therefore
may be deleted from the office template.
• S | 02 FOR APPROVAL - Required for structural submission to BCA.
• S | 03 FOR REFERENCE - Required for structural submission to BCA.
• S | 04 TENDER

The S | SHEET LIST Project Index lists Layouts by their Subset Name and Layout ID and
Name from the subsets included in the template, excluding the Cover Page. Therefore, this
index needs to be modified if additional content and subsets are created.
Project Indexes are similar to Interactive Schedules but cannot list elements, instead they
list items in the Navigator.

Find more details on Project Indexes

on the GRAPHISOFT Help Center here:
https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide/137289/

Master Layouts are available as references for:

• S | A1 LANDSCAPE - generic architectural Layouts

• S | A1 LANDSCAPE (Grid) – as above, with a grid for auto drawing arrangement
• S | A1 LANDSCAPE - generic architectural Layouts with modified title block
• S | A1 COVER PAGE - cover page only

Additional Master Layouts can be created according to the office standards.

To set a Master Layout as a default for newly created Layouts:

1 Select the Master Layout.

2 Right-click and choose Set as Default.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Project and Layout Info

Project Information is accessible via File/Info/Project Info. Use the Export.../Import...

buttons on the Project Info dialog to transfer project info between projects.

Project Info is referred to by Autotexts, which are also available for Layout and Drawing
Information.
To add these, use the Text or Label tool and the Insert Autotext icon to add different
types of autotexts along with any relevant custom text.

The values of these autotexts can also be defined in the Layout Settings dialogs.

1 Select the Layout in the Layout Book.

2 Right-click and choose Layout Settings....

3 Add values as needed under the Layout Info panel.

The contents of this Layout Info panel can be customized and expanded by going to the
Book Settings.

1 Select the Layout Book - the topmost item in the Layout tab of the Navigator.

2 Right-click and choose Book Settings....

3 Add items as needed under the Layout Info Scheme panel. The new fields will be
available for all Layouts in this project.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Publisher

Publisher Sets have to be created manually. Once the Layout Book subsets are created, use
the Add Shortcut ››› button in the Organizer to create continuously updated content
within the Publisher Sets.

The default Publisher Sets contain:

• 1 - Views - the content of the View Map in PDF format

• 2 - Layouts (PDF) – the content of the Layout Book in PDF format
• S | Layouts (DWG) – the content of the Layout Book in DWG format
• S | Ref.Model for Structure (IFC/DWG) – the 3D model in IFC and the GA/UNIT
PLANS folders in DWG format for export to Revit for example
• S | Submission - For Approval (DWG/PDF) – the content of the Layout Book/FOR
APPROVAL folder in DWG and PDF format
• S | Submission - For Reference (DWG/PDF) – the content of the Layout Book/FOR
REFERENCE folder in DWG and PDF format
• S | Tender Documents (DWG/PDF) – the content of the Layout Book/TENDER
folder in DWG and PDF format
• S | Tender Documents (PDF) – includes the TENDER subset of the Layout Book in
PDF format
• S | Views (PMK) for Separated Doc. File – the content of the View Map is
published in PMK format, which files can be later referenced in a separate
documentation file

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

The Publisher Set item names can also include Autotexts, such as codes, IDs, revision
numbers, etc. Those custom fields that were created under the Layout Info Scheme can
also be inserted.

1 Right-click on any item(s)/folder and choose Rename Items....

2 Add Autotexts from the Insert Autotext control, these can be combined with
custom text as well.

Find more details on Revision Management in general

on the GRAPHISOFT Help Center here:
https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide-chapter/86853/

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Submission File Format

Saving the files requires a specific naming format to define the following.

1 Make sure that the COVER PAGE layout is opened and moved to the beginning
of the Tab Bar, followed by the Floor Plan of the project (which must be open to
keep the file open in Archicad). This COVER PAGE has to be the first one that
officers see when they open the file. All other tabs are to be closed.

2 Use File/Save as... menu command and save the file in one of the required formats.

• BIM native file format and software version in a single file:

Archicad .PLA, version 25, indicated in the file name, for example:

ABCDEF_S1_BLK01_A_A25_123456.pla

Note: PLA files include all library elements used in a project and make the file
management easier for the submission, therefore it is highly recommended to use this
format.

File naming conventions – as per the BCA General Requirements, indicating maximum
number of characters per part:
Author (2)

Submission Software
Project ID Model Part User Defined
_ _ _ Version _ Version _
(6) (6) (6)
(1) (3)

A B C D E F _ S 1 _ B L K 0 0 1 _ A _ A 2 5 _ 1 2 3 4 5 6

Before submitting the file make sure all necessary views are set correctly and show the
relevant information.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

Make sure that all external references (2D drawings) are stored within the project file, to
ensure that the checking officers will see the same content as the QP.

1 Select the linked drawings (this can be done through the Drawing Manager) and
open their settings.

2 Check the Store Drawing in the Project file checkbox for each drawing.

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 Structural Submission Template for Archicad 25

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Revision of the current template and guide done by GRAPHISOFT Singapore, with the help
and input from our users at Surbana Jurong, and HDB (Housing & Development Board).

For any queries please contact:

GRAPHISOFT Singapore
152 Beach Road
#10-05 Gateway East
Singapore 189721

[email protected]

Copyright © Building and Construction Authority, 2021. All rights reserved. 54