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TOPOEXPORT and CADMAPPER
GIS/Geographic Information System AI Assistant

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TopoExport Overview

TopoExport is a web-based platform designed for architects, urban planners, and engineers to quickly generate 2D vector maps and 3D terrain models. It serves as a more precise and modern alternative to tools like Cadmapper.

By pulling data from high-quality GIS (Geographic Information System) and open-source datasets, it allows users to select a specific area on a global map and download structured files ready for use in CAD or BIM software.

Key Features

  • Layered Data: Toggle layers such as buildings (including rooftops/LoD2), cadastral parcels, roads, railways, waterways, trees, and green areas.
  • 3D Topography: Generates accurate Digital Terrain Models (DTM) and 3D buildings.
  • Multiple Export Formats: Supports DXF, DWG, IFC, OBJ, STL, PDF, and SVG.
  • BIM Ready: Optimized for seamless import into Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, and Archicad.
  • Global Coverage: Works worldwide, with especially detailed data in Europe and the USA.

Cadmapper Overview

Cadmapper is a web-based tool that allows architects, urban planners, and designers to quickly generate 2D and 3D CAD files from real-world geographic data. It simplifies the process of obtaining site context by converting map data into ready-to-use formats for design software.

How It Works

  1. Select a location anywhere in the world using the interactive map.
  2. Choose the area size (up to 1 km2 for free).
  3. Download the generated file in your preferred format.

Key Features

  • Global Map Data: Uses open-source GIS data such as OpenStreetMap.
  • Layer Control: Includes buildings, roads, contours, water, and terrain.
  • 3D Models: Generates basic building massing and terrain.
  • Multiple Formats: Supports DXF, SketchUp (SKP), Rhino, and more.
  • Fast Export: Files are generated in minutes.

Supported Software

  • AutoCAD
  • SketchUp
  • Rhino
  • Revit (via import workflows)

Pricing

  • Free Tier: Export up to 1 km2 per request.
  • Paid Plans: Larger areas, higher detail, and batch exports.

Common Use Cases

  • Site Analysis: Quickly generate context maps for design projects.
  • Urban Planning: Study city layouts and infrastructure.
  • 3D Visualization: Import into rendering software for realistic scenes.
  • Academic Projects: Useful for architecture and engineering students.

Limitations

  • Building detail is often simplified (flat roofs).
  • Accuracy depends on available open-source data.
  • Limited export size in the free version.

Comparison: TopoExport vs. Cadmapper

Feature TopoExport Cadmapper
Precision High-definition DTMs and refined contour lines. Standard open-source data accuracy.
Buildings Includes LoD2 (detailed rooftops) in some regions. Mostly flat-top massing.
Formats Offers IFC and STL (good for 3D printing). Focused on DXF, SKP, and Rhino.
Pricing Free up to 1 km2 with tiered subscriptions. Free up to 1 km2.

Common Use Cases

  • Site Analysis: Creating context maps for architectural projects.
  • 3D Printing: Exporting STL files for physical models.
  • Feasibility Studies: Using cadastral data to analyze plot boundaries and density.
  • Environmental Simulation: Importing terrain into software for sun, shadow, or water analysis.

to be NOTEd:
Cadmapper does not maintain an official YouTube channel.

However, a large community of architects and urban planners provides high-quality tutorials that explain how to use the platform effectively.

Cadmapper Tutorials & Learning Resources

If you are looking for guidance, here are some of the most highly-rated tutorials categorized by software:

Top Tutorials by Software

  • AutoCAD: From Map to AutoCAD in 5 Minutes! Fast & Free with CADmapper – A modern guide covering terrain and 3D building imports.
  • Rhino: CADMAPPER to Rhino Tutorial by How to Rhino – Explains how to optimize layers and create visual styles specifically for Rhino.
  • Revit: CADMapper Straight to Revit | How to Create Topography – Focuses on converting Cadmapper data into native Revit Toposolids and site components.
  • SketchUp: How to create a quick 3D TOPOGRAPHY + REALISTIC RENDERING – A workflow using Cadmapper with SketchUp and Lumion for high-end visualization.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

  • Scaling: Always check your units (Meters vs. Imperial) during export. Incorrect scaling is the most common issue.
  • Layer Management: Clean up "Building" and "Topography" layers immediately after import to prevent heavy and slow files.
  • Free Limit: You can export up to 1 km2 for free, which is usually sufficient for site analysis.

Additional Insight

If you are working on technical or web-based projects, the DXF/DWG export formats from Cadmapper are generally the most stable and compatible for integration into other tools and workflows.

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