.PLN File Extension
Archicad Solo Project
| Developer | GRAPHISOFT |
| Popularity | |
| Category | CAD Files |
| Format | .PLN |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an PLN file?
The .PLN file extension primarily represents Archicad Solo projects. Archicad Solo is a version of Graphisoft’s Archicad software tailored for solo practitioners and small architecture firms.
These .PLN files encapsulate the entire project, including its 2D drawings, 3D models, schedules, and other project-related data.
They serve as comprehensive repositories of architectural projects, facilitating collaboration, revision, and documentation.
More Information.
In its nascent stages, Archicad aimed to streamline the architectural design process by transitioning from traditional drafting methods to digital modeling.
The .PLN file extension played a crucial role in this transition by providing architects with a unified platform to organize and manage their projects.
Initially, .PLN files were primarily used for internal project documentation and communication. However, as Archicad gained popularity and capabilities, .PLN files became indispensable for sharing project data with clients, consultants, and collaborators.
Origin Of This File.
The .PLN file extension originates from Archicad, which was developed by the Hungarian company Graphisoft. Archicad debuted in 1987 as one of the first BIM (Building Information Modeling) software solutions.
Over the years, it has evolved to become a cornerstone tool in the architectural design and construction industries.
The .PLN file extension emerged as a standardized format for saving Archicad Solo projects, ensuring compatibility and consistency across different installations of the software.
File Structure Technical Specification.
.PLN file is essentially a container that stores various components of an Archicad Solo project.
Its structure is hierarchical, with different elements organized into layers for easy navigation and management. At its core, a .PLN file consists of:
- Project Settings: Includes project-specific configurations such as units, scales, and project location.
- 2D Drawings: Contains 2D floor plans, elevations, sections, and other architectural drawings.
- 3D Models: Encompasses the digital representations of the building, including its geometry, materials, and textures.
- Schedules & Lists: Compiles information about building elements, quantities, and specifications.
- Annotations & Documentation: Stores notes, comments, and markups added by project stakeholders.
- Libraries: References external resources such as building components, materials, and symbols used in the project.
Internally, .PLN files utilize a proprietary data format optimized for efficient storage and retrieval within Archicad. This format may incorporate elements of XML, binary, and other data serialization techniques to balance performance and compatibility.
How to Convert the File?
Converting .PLN files to other formats can be advantageous in certain scenarios, such as interoperability with different software or archiving purposes.
While direct conversion to standard formats like .DWG or .IFC may not be straightforward due to its proprietary nature of .PLN files, several workarounds exist:
- Exporting to IFC: Archicad supports exporting .PLN projects to the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) format, which is an open standard for BIM interoperability. This allows for compatibility with a wide range of BIM software.
- DXF/DWG Conversion: Although not directly supported, some third-party tools or plugins may facilitate the conversion of Archicad drawings to AutoCAD-compatible formats like DXF or DWG.
- Collaboration Platforms: Online collaboration platforms or project management tools may offer integration with Archicad, allowing for seamless sharing and collaboration without the need for file format conversion.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Comprehensive: .PLN files encapsulate all project data, simplifying project management and sharing.
- BIM Integration: Seamlessly integrates with BIM workflows, facilitating collaboration and interoperability.
- Version Control: Enables versioning and revision tracking, ensuring consistency throughout the design process.
- Customization: Allows architects to tailor project settings, templates, and libraries to their specific needs.
Disadvantages:
- Proprietary Format: .PLN files are tied to Archicad, limiting interoperability with other software platforms.
- File Size: Large projects may result in sizable .PLN files pose challenges for storage and transfer.
- Learning Curve: Mastery of Archicad and .PLN files requires dedicated training and experience.
- Software Dependence: Accessing .PLN files necessitate Archicad software, restricting access for non-users.
How to Open PLN?
Open In Windows
- Ensure you have Archicad software installed on your Windows computer.
- Double-click on the .PLN file.
- Archicad should automatically launch and open the .PLN project.
Open In Linux
- Install Wine on your Linux distribution.
- Download the Windows version of Archicad.
- Run the Archicad installer through Wine.
- After installation, you should be able to open .PLN files by double-clicking on them, provided Wine is configured correctly.
Open In MAC
- Ensure you have Archicad software installed on your macOS computer.
- Double-click on the .PLN file.
- Archicad should automatically launch and open the .PLN project.
