AECOsim Building Designer Help

The Part and Family System

Parts and families are delivered and grouped into XML files, and are managed using the Family/Part Editor .

  • Architectural part families include exterior and interior architectural components such as curtainwall and storefront assemblies, doors, windows, spaces, bathroom fixtures and accessories, and roof specialty components. Within are material definitions and properties for them such as glass, metal, brick, block, stone, and wall finishes.
  • Mechanical part families include HVAC components such as duct and pipe, fittings, diffusers, registers and grilles, fans, pumps, VAV boxes, valves and controls, boilers, fire protection systems, and AHU's. Within are material and analytical definitions and properties for them such as service type and lining material.
  • Structural part families include structural components such steel, concrete, and timber beams and columns, steel trusses, bar joists, joist girders, steel and composite decking, and foundations. Within are material, structural data and analytical definitions and properties for them such as structural section, material grade, material class, and reaction forces.
  • Electrical part families include electrical components lighting fixtures, lighting protection equipment, power receptacles, fire alarms, telecommunications equipment, and control systems.
  • IFC - Parts for IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) data exchange are also managed using the Family/Part Editor.