New tools deliver BIM data: building model yields valuable information - AEC tools: master the architect's desktop - including Autodesk's Revit and Architectural Desktop 2004, Bentley Architecture 8.1

CADalyst, Dec, 2003 by H. Edward Goldberg

The RCC Database builds information to UniFormat level 6, encompassing stud counts, amount of mortar, lengths of rebar, and so forth. For about $4,000, you can purchase the RCC Database. This, along with Timberline's Estimating Software and CAD Integrator, allows you to output any type of estimate in about 60 seconds (figure 2). What-if estimates are available at any stage of design, and the estimate changes as you modify the design.

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AUTODESK REVIT

Revit offers two ways to generate estimating quantities. It can automatically label quantities with UniFormat II classification Level 4 information, such as material, area, and volume (figure 3). One method exports to ODBC format. Using this format, you can export to Microsoft Access database software all the data contained in Revit's 3D building model, an extensive list of footings, piers, walls, roofs, windows, doors, finishes, and furniture. From the OBDC output, you can craft custom database spreadsheets that automatically create and update estimates. Autodesk's Ken Stowe, product manager for construction, has created creditable estimates using this output. Any third-party estimating, planning, procurement, and facility management tools that use the ODBC format can work with Revit data.

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The second method uses preprocessed, user-defined ASCII BOM (bill of materials) tables. You can use comma-delimited output from Revit's standard schedules to provide data for Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheets. You essentially have two choices: format your quantities output inside Revit and export it, or export it and then format your data.

For 4D construction simulation, you can tag all of Revit's objects with construction-sequence information, so you can generate 4D storyboards and animations with logistics, equipment, and safety elements for presentations and owner decision-making meetings.

AUTODESK ARCHITECTURAL DESKTOP 2004

There are probably more seats of Architectural Desktop in use than any other architectural CAD software. For software subscribers, the new Interoperability and Productivity Extension provides enhanced design workflow tools and smooth data sharing among team members.

Do you need to distribute more than just graphic data? With DWF files, you can view nongraphic information as well as design graphics to make design intent more clear. The free Autodesk Express Viewer displays nongraphical data such as the fire rating of a door and the square footage of a room. The DWF format also lets design team members review and redline, making DWF an efficient means to distribute and share data.

Using Autodesk MapGuide, you can convert pertinent digital design data contained in Architectural Desktop drawings into informative and interactive facility maps (figure 4). With this tool, you can give other industry professionals, such as facilities managers, quick access to building areas and their corresponding resources.

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Autodesk Architectural Desktop now exports the data in drawings to Microsoft Access, where you can view, sort, query, and export it to other applications to perform specific tasks, such as cost estimation.