Import from Giblab.com into iFurn.pro - .project XML Format

#153

Import from Giblab.com into iFurn.pro is the shortest path for moving a finished project from Giblab.com into iFurn.pro. The transport format is .project - an exchange XML that both services speak.

Note: Giblab.com is a third-party online program (giblab.com) that exports a project in the .project format. Do not confuse it with GitLab - these are unrelated products: GitLab is a git-based source control system and has nothing to do with furniture import.

When to use this import

  • The project was originally built in Giblab.com and needs to move into iFurn.pro for further work
  • You use Giblab as an intermediate converter for Woody, AutoCAD or other programs - the result is always saved as .project
  • You received a .project from a partner or subcontractor who works in Giblab

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1. Open the project in Giblab

  1. Go to giblab.com and log in to your account.
  2. Create a new project or open an existing one.
  3. Make sure all parts, edge bands and materials are set up correctly.
  4. Save the project in Giblab.

Step 2. Export to .project

  1. In Giblab click "Export".
  2. Pick the .project format.
  3. Save the file to your computer.

Step 3. Upload into iFurn.pro

  1. Open iFurn.pro.
  2. Open the "Project import" menu.
  3. Pick the saved .project file.
  4. Upload it - all parts land in the current order.

Inside the .project format

A Giblab .project file is XML with a root tag of <viyar> or <project> (depending on the version). iFurn.pro recognizes both.

Contents:

  • Parts list with dimensions (cut size and overall size)
  • Materials and edge banding
  • Drillings, grooves, routing
  • Part-to-product (assembly) mapping
  • Production allowances

The viyar parameter - which size to use

When importing a Viyar/Giblab project the system may ask which part size to use:

part
Part size with edge banding (overall) - what comes out after edge banding.
cut
Cut size - the size the blank is sawn to BEFORE edge banding.
before_edge
Part size before edge banding but after edge jointing - no band, but with jointed edges.

If the parameter is not set explicitly, the system asks during import. The choice depends on how your shop floor is organized and which size is your "target".

What carries over in full

  • All parts with dimensions in the chosen mode (part/cut/before_edge)
  • Edge banding per side with thickness
  • Drillings
  • Grooves and routing
  • Materials (with mapping via the import dialog)
  • Product (assembly) structure

Giblab as an intermediate service

Giblab.com is often used as a converter for formats that iFurn.pro cannot read directly. For example:

This is convenient if you already have an active Giblab account and exchange projects with partners.

Common issues

"File not recognized"
Make sure the XML root is <viyar> or <project>. Giblab files always have this structure, but manual editing may break it.
"Dimensions do not match"
Pick the right mode: part / cut / before_edge - this is critical, especially when Giblab uses large allowances.
"Materials did not match"
Use the import dialog in iFurn.pro - you can pick an existing material or create a new one.
"Takes a long time to load"
Large projects (200+ parts) take longer - that is normal. Do not close the browser window, let it finish.

See also