Import images, floorplans and sections

Loading 2D references like drawings, pictures or sketches can be very helpful during the design process. We currently support the loading of PNG files (ideal compression format for line drawings) and JPG files (ideal compression format for images)

If you like to import floorplans or sections from your favorite CAD application we recommend exporting your drawings as higher resolution PNG so you could clearly see the linework and text while working on your plans.

The loading of custom Images to Arkio is easiest using the Arkio Cloud. After linking and uploading your images or manually placing the image files in the Arkio Import folder the images can be found under the import tab of your create-tool.

You can place images in the scene with a fixed with if you fill in the width field with your required dimension (in meters) and hit enter on the keyboard to confirm the size before you place the image in the scene.

To place the images in your scene you can use:

Locked to orgin - place the images in the center of the table as a non-selectable and movable reference

Place as object - place the images as interactable objects in your scene like normal Arkio props

After you placed the images in the scene as objects you can also use Arkio's geometry as a reference to approximate the scaling of your image by drawing shapes with the actual sizes on top and adjusting the image sizes accordingly. You can also glue images to Arkio geometry to align it better to existing geometry or eg. create a set of slides in front of each other.

Intersecting images with Arkio geometry

Images and imported models can intersect with Arkio geometry so you can use them as a design reference from your floorplans/sections. To do this you can just place the images in the scene and use the move tool (laser of grabbing the image with your hand) to position the image where you want to align it.

If you have trouble aligning it to the correct plane try to disable the snaps/guides (thumbstick down) or getting a bit closer and make yourself a bit smaller to work with more accuracy.

Known limitations:  

• Thin images can be harder to grab and move than solid Arkio geometry
• If you place images as an object they will slightly move when scaling yourself to prevent Z-fighting. If you want your images to stay fixed in place you can best load the image locked to origin
• Recommended image file < 2Mb and not bigger than 5000 pixels
• It might take a while for other users in a multi-user session to see your images depending on your file size (progress bar shown)