BIM is often referred to as the future of building because the method, with its integral character, promises the optimization of planning processes and interdisciplinary project collaboration. With the development of the FRILO BIM-Connector®, FRILO has contributed to this ongoing evolution in networked building planning. With the latest release, the software provider has now achieved the next milestone: the range of functions has been expanded to include a connection to the FRILO Building model.
Continuously developing digital technologies present the construction industry with major challenges, but at the same time hold enormous potential in terms of increasing quality, efficiency and speed. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a key element in exploiting this potential. BIM is understood to be a cooperative working method through which construction objects are mapped based on digital building models over their entire life cycle with all their relevant information. The holistic planning and control concept provides that data are consistently recorded, managed and exchanged in a transparent communication between the project participants or transferred for further processing. Planning, construction and management of buildings are networked and optimized using well-engineered software. Increased efficiency and quality, the reduction of manual transmission errors, simplified information management and more planning security are just some of the numerous BIM advantages that will significantly shape the future of the construction industry.
FRILO contributes with BIM-Connector®
As a provider of software for the static calculation of building structures, FRILO is inevitably involved in the planning process of buildings and is therefore responsible for making a significant contribution to the successful implementation of BIM. This endeavour is reflected in the development of the FRILO BIM-Connector®. The FRILO BIM-Connector® pursues the clear aim of bringing the collaboration between architects and structural engineers to a new level of efficiency. In terms of integral planning, the BIM-Connector ensures the smoothest possible and manufacturer-independent data exchange between the two disciplines. A physical building model can be quickly imported in IFC or SAF file format, processed and then presented to the user as an analytical building model ready for structural analysis and element design.
The FRILO BIM Connector® enables a holistic and software independent workflow
The FRILO BIM Connector® enables a holistic and software independent workflow
Data exchange on IFC basis
IFC (= Industry Foundation Classes) is an open standard that is used for data exchange in the construction industry. The IFC format allows the creator a software-neutral description of building models. The workflow begins in a CAD software, in which the model is created. The IFC file can then be
transferred to the FRILO BIM-Connector and initially opened as a Physical model consisting of volume elements. This is where the model is cleaned up so that it can be passed on without errors. Calculation floors can be restructured, components that are not relevant can be removed, specifications for the subsequent dimensioning can be defined and the materials with the respective material quality can be assigned. After the Physical model has been cleaned up, you can switch to the Analytical model. This model contains only statically relevant components and consists only of beam and area elements. The prerequisites for structural calculations are created in the Analytical model. The functions provided enable the user to generate a correct static model. Centre lines of components that have not previously met can be intersected with a click of the mouse. Component axes can be placed over one another for the axis-oriented modelling and the correct transfer of loads. Walls can also be edited with regard to their openings. Small recesses and openings as well as small beam sections, supports, walls and small plates can be removed at will. In addition, surface elements can be assigned a new calculated thickness.
Data exchange on SAF basis
In addition to IFC files, structural engineers can also import SAF files with the BIM-Connector. The SAF format is enjoying increasing popularity because it is particularly suitable for the direct exchange of analytical models. SAF (= Structural Analysis Format) is an Excel-based open-source file format that also allows project participants to work together on a software-neutral basis. In contrast to the IFC file, the output file that is transferred to the BIM-Connector is not based on architectural plans, but on a structure analysis model that has already been created. As a result, the BIM-connector is already started in the program interface of the Analytical model after the automatic transfer. Components are therefore transferred already connected, materials are already assigned.
Once the preparation of the IFC or SAF file has been completed in the Analytical model, individual components can be selected and transferred to the connected FRILO calculation programs, where the component dimensioning ultimately takes place.
Connection to the Building model eagerly awaited
Since the latest FRILO release, users have had the option of importing the prepared Analytical model directly into the FRILO Building model. The Building model is a modern tool for quickly determining the load transfer of a complete structure in the common solid construction. The calculation of the vertical load transfer is carried out floor by floor from top to bottom. With the possibility of the 3D model import, FRILO has taken the next step towards the smoothest and most time-efficient exchange of data between architecture and structural engineering since the entire building no longer has to be created step by step by the structural planner. Instead, all components from the Analytical model can be automatically transferred to the FRILO Building model for further structural analysis and design. After the handover has taken place, the user can adjust as usual and carry out his calculations of the individual building components. The integration of the BIM-Connector can therefore represent an enormous relief for the structural engineers, especially in time-consuming project phases.
Meet FRILO Software GmbH at DCW 2021
About FRILO Software GmbH
With over 40 years of market experience and more than 100 customized software solutions, FRILO is one of the leading providers of innovative calculation programs for structural analysis and design. Therefore, you can access a wide range of modern solutions from the four superordinate areas of Reinforced Concrete, Roof & Timber, Foundation & Soil Analysis and Steel. Our key to success: At FRILO, engineers with practical experience and a strong passion for software development constantly ensure that your requirements as a structural engineer are met with suitable and user-friendly solutions for everyday use.
For more information please visit www.frilo.eu/en