Focus

Mechanical discipline building information modeling (BIM) supports both 2D and 3D workflows. Intelligent components allow design engineers to work in either design mode at any time, while changes automatically update and synchronize between the two environments. Automatic drawing generation uses industry-standard representations of mechanical system components. Automated connections, routing and sizing tools, and system component editing all increase efficiency and workflow. Defining of custom label variables by adding attributes such as System ID, in Mechanical drawing rules helps stacked compound annotation in drawings.

Mechanical discipline is also integrated with all Building solutions to ensure that designs and documentation are coordinated throughout the design and construction phases. Design project models provide extensive continued use during life cycle operations and future projects. Compatible OpenBuildings Station Designer tools such as Clash Detection, provide integrated collaboration and analysis to facilitate coordination of designs with all disciplines in the project team.

Features

Significant Mechanical discipline features include:

• Supports HVAC and Plumbing disciplines, as well as LPG and Fire protection - Placement, modification, and manipulation tools are available to each discipline. Placement of array of fittings is also allowed for space bound devices distributed equally. Advanced tools like AHU Builder can build library of customized Air Handling Units.
• Drawing resymbolization control - Automated drawing representations for mechanical components are customizable. Standard single line and double line presentations can be used, or they can be edited to meet other requirements.
• Alternate view display and work environments - Work in 2D drawings or 3D models, or both at the same time to support all workflows.
• Dynamic routing connections place transitions, fittings, and combinations of fittings as route sizes change - Placement commands automatically place fittings and symbols in logical locations without leaving the command. Additionally, the HVAC and Plumbing Autofitting preferences can be set via respective user interfaces, stored in an XML file, and used as you route the system.
• Automatic labeling and label updating - Various components are labeled with one command. Labels are associative and update automatically when changes to components are made.
• Automatic device hookup - Devices and route elements are hooked up by selecting them. Settings contain options for connecting devices to existing route elements. If requirements exceed settings, then hookups are finished automatically.
• AccuDraw key-in short cuts specific to the Mechanical discipline - AccuDraw key-ins assist placement by reorientating components dynamically during placement or modification operations.
• Contextual property options assist with DataGroup property entries and setting - A pull-down list of property options launches option menus and dialogs used to apply entries to tentatively placed or modified Mechanical discipline elements.
• Integrated schedules and reporting - Building information can be entered at any point during the decision making and modeling process. This information is managed and used by the DataGroup System to quickly generate accurate, user produced, schedules and reports.
• Automatic manufacturer catalog selection - Automatic component selection from widely recognized manufacturer catalogs simplifies the routing process. Manufacturer catalogs can be queried during both placement or modification operations.
• Performance based tools - With advanced tools like Duct System, and Pipe System Sizing, the entire routes can be analyzed and checked for integrity, connectivity, and flow paths. Gaps in the system, open air duct endings, and grilles and diffusers without defined air rates can quickly and easily be found and fixed.