Information on Billard Leece Partnership's committment to 3D modelling and a unified workflow in the design process
Billard Leece Partnership are striving to develop a workflow that allows all consultants to participate in the creation of a 3D single building model. This model would have components contributed from the Architect's model, Structural engineer's model and the Mechanical engineer's model.
With all this data combined we can fully coordinate the team input and run clash detection software on the model, highlighting any areas of conflict. Instead of reissuing cad translated files to each other, the responsible team members can interactively rectify the problem as we do now within the Billard Leece Partnership office.
Our office uses Bentley System's 'Microstation Triforma' CAD software. MicroStation TriForma embraces the natural architectural workflow. It allows designing with conceptual modeling tools. All the building information is stored in a 3D model. As the design progresses and detail is added, the model is refined and enhanced. As design moves through production, all of the 2D drawings and reports including cost estimates, bills of materials and specifications can be generated from this single, unambiguous model.
MicroStation TriForma provides powerful 3D modeling with easy-to-use modeling tools that allows quick sculpting, modification, sectioning and visualization of conceptual designs. Graphical parametric stair and window tools allow easy design and manipulation of unique building elements of various types and configurations. Automated 2D production drawings 2D plans, sections, elevations and details are generated from the 3D model. Specified line styles, line weights and patterns are generated automatically. Objects above and below the section cut can be included in the drawing with specified linestyles and line weights.
Changes to the drawings between sessions are automatically flagged. Versatile reporting including bills of materials, cost estimates and specifications are automatically generated from the 3D model. Simulations can be created by selecting varying material descriptions without having to modify the model. Specification text is linked to the materials in the model. MicroStation TriForma supports photorealistic rendering with ray tracing, particle tracing (allowing accurate light simulations for images) reflections, transparency, translucency, radiosity, photo matching, and shadows.