Understanding the history of these tools provides valuable context. The suite was originally developed by , a company with a strong presence in New Zealand and Australia, which also sold architectural and technical software. In 2016, Central Innovation acquired the Cadimage Group to create a more comprehensive suite of Open BIM solutions. Since then, the tools have continued to evolve and are now marketed as "Ci Tools," with the company maintaining a dedicated site at cadimageworld.com . This acquisition has allowed for greater investment in development and a more integrated distribution model.
Slice through profiles, roofs, and objects cleanly using simple 2D line inputs.
By automating repetitive modeling tasks and expanding Archicad’s native design capabilities, Cadimage allows architects to focus on design rather than tedious drafting. Here is a comprehensive look at how Cadimage Tools transform your BIM workflow. What Are Cadimage Tools?
: Ensure you download and install the Cadimage Work Environment ; without this, the tools will not appear in your Archicad menus. cadimage tools
Place switches, sockets, and outlets that appear in 3D, allowing for accurate internal elevations.
Quickly create 2D details derived directly from 3D models 0.5.4. Benefits of Using Cadimage Tools in ARCHICAD Enhanced Productivity
The Ultimate Guide to Cadimage Tools: Transforming Archicad Workflows Understanding the history of these tools provides valuable
Below is a comprehensive guide to the Ci Tools suite, how it works, and what it means for the future of your Archicad workflow.
Automatically generates boxed corners, miters, and flashing details. Key Benefits for Architectural Practices
: Automates the scheduling and labeling of openings, including "Schedule Notes" for detailed documentation. Since then, the tools have continued to evolve
The suite consists of several modules targeting specific architectural elements:
Beyond the Out-of-the-Box: Enhancing BIM Productivity with Cadimage Tools.
Create bespoke door and window shapes, configurations, and styles 0.5.4.
ArchiCAD is a world-class BIM (Building Information Modeling) platform. However, creating highly detailed elements like complex cabinetry, custom window schedules, or realistic roof cladding can be time-consuming using native methods. Ci Tools automates many of these intricate, repetitive tasks, significantly boosting efficiency. By providing specialized tools, it enhances ArchiCAD's core functions, making complex designs more manageable. Furthermore, the advanced parametric control offered by the Doors+Windows and Coverings tools allows users to produce highly realistic visualizations, which is invaluable for client presentations and planning approvals.
Architecture varies wildly by region—construction methods in New Zealand differ from those in the UK or the US. Cadimage Tools have historically been praised for their adaptability. The objects allow for localized construction standards (such as specific timber framing sizes or regional stair codes) to be input, making the models viable for real-world construction rather than just visualization.