RENDR helps you quickly capture interior space data, and the web and mobile apps provide various export options to seamlessly integrate this data into your existing design and estimating workflows. A key benefit is the ability to export your scan data for use in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. This eliminates manual entry, saves time, and allows you to start designing faster.
Here's a high-level overview of the different CAD export options available with RENDR:
DXF Export (For General CAD Software)
RENDR allows you to export your scan data as a DXF file. This is a standard CAD export that can be imported into just about any CAD software out on the market, including AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Pro Kitchen, and Soft Plan.
The DXF export provides a line drawing of your scanned space. For projects requiring precise measurements, such as millwork projects where accuracy to the quarter-inch is needed, you can export the DXF file as single lines. This preserves the exact dimensions and angles from the scan, allowing you to manually trace the walls in your CAD software for maximum precision.
Chief Architect Export (via DXF with Specific Options)
For users of Chief Architect, RENDR provides a specific workflow using the DXF export. When exporting the DXF file from RENDR for Chief Architect, you should enable the "CAD to walls" toggle. Other sources mention enabling "Chief Architect Layers by Name" during the import process. These settings are designed to make the data adjustable by Chief Architect.
After importing the DXF into Chief Architect (often by simply dragging and dropping the file), you can use the CAD to Walls tool within Chief Architect to convert the CAD lines into actual walls, windows, and doors. You will need to assign the RENDR layers like "RENDR Walls" and "RENDR Windows" to the corresponding Chief Architect elements in the CAD to Walls window. The tool automatically detects doors. Once familiar with the steps, this process can typically take about 30 seconds.
RENDR is also working on a direct integration with Chief Architect, which will allow you to save a Chief Architect room file directly out of RENDR for even greater time savings.
2020 Design Live® Export
For kitchen and bath designers using 2020 Design Live®, RENDR offers a direct export option specifically for this software. After completing your scan, you can select the "Export 2020 .xml" button within the RENDR app.
This creates an XML file that you can then import directly into 2020 Design Live®. This direct integration is designed for a rapid transition from an on-site scan to a workable design, allowing you to instantly start designing with walls, windows, and doors accurately drawn.
Benefits of Using RENDR Exports with CAD Software
By exporting your RENDR scans, you can:
Reduce Manual Entry: The technology captures measurements directly, saving time compared to traditional methods.
Start Designing Faster: Immediately bring dimensionally accurate as-built plans into your design software.
Streamline Workflow: Integrate scan data seamlessly into your existing design process.
Generate 3D Models Quicker: Contractors using CAD software can generate 3D models from the scan data in no time. Reports from users indicate a reduction in design time by 1-2 hours per project.
While RENDR is designed to save time and provide high accuracy (greater than 99%), it's important to remember that it's meant to enhance, not completely replace, a field measure needed for critical data. You can use tools like the PDF export to add notes and critical measurements taken manually on site to reference in your CAD software.
Need More Advanced Help?
Knowledge base resources are available on exporting floor plans for specific software like Chief Architect and 2020. For more detailed information, tutorials, setup instructions, or if you need 1-on-1 support with any integration or exporting process, you can schedule an onboarding call or CAD Demo with the RENDR team.
Please use this link to schedule a follow-up: https://rendr.com/landing-schedule-a-follow-up/