STRUCTURE

PDF/CAD to BIM conversion

Despite the beneficial process of creating drawings as an extraction from a BIM model, many companies still rely on a 2D approach for their designs. However, in certain cases, it becomes evident that a BIM model is necessary. This is where specialists from ORIGIN can assist.

The creation of a BIM model from 2D CAD or PDF files is a process that also helps in identifying issues and drawing mistakes when viewing the entire picture in 3D mode.

Hot-rolled steel design and detailing

Hot-rolled steel is a traditional material used in building structures.

We utilize Autodesk Revit for drawing production and also use Tekla Structures (Diamond license type) for steel detailing when required.

Cold-formed/LGS steel design and detailing

More and more companies are transitioning from timber framing to cold-formed steel (CFS) and light gauge steel (LGS) framing.

These types of steel framing are produced using automated CNC rollformers.

It is crucial to consider the fabrication process of LGS panels and select the appropriate software for this purpose.

In ORIGIN, we primarily use Autodesk Revit as our modeling environment, supplemented with the MWF StrucSoft Advanced metal add-in and AGAcad add-in.

This allows us to export the LGS framing in CNC output files, which can then be used with various brands of LGS rollformers such as Howick, FrameCAD, and others.

Wood panels design and detailing

Wood framing is the most traditional type of framing.

However, the BIM approach has various applications.

We use Autodesk Revit for drawing production and prepare drawings of each panel for builders. This increases construction speed and provides accurate BOM (Bill of Materials).

Cold-formed steel framing

Calculations for cold-formed/LGS steel framing are carried out using SciaEngineer software.

For steel member connection calculations, we use the IDEAStatiCa software.

In the US, we also provide LGS truss packages using the MWF Strucsoft Advanced Metal software.

All calculations are in line with the AISC, ASCE, IBC, and IRC codes for the US, and the harmonized standards for the EU.

Wood framing

For timber framing calculations, we rarely use 3D analytical schemes and instead rely on Excel spreadsheets and tables.

Concrete foundations

For concrete foundation calculations, we usually utilize Excel spreadsheets and tables, as well as tools like Tekla Tedds.

FEM/FEA of irregular structures and connections

Sometimes, applying general calculation approaches can be challenging, and they may not yield accurate results.

The best way to handle custom steel connections or calculate irregular shapes is to use the FEM/FEA (Finite Element Method/Finite Element Analysis) approach. At ORIGIN, we employ this method occasionally, primarily for custom connections and shipping container projects where the corrugated weakened side panel of the container needs to be analyzed.

CAD to BIM workflow transition

Despite the fact that the beneficial process of drawings creation is an extraction from a BIM model, many companies still rely on a 2D approach for their designs. We are eager to assist companies who wish to transition their workflow from CAD to BIM, guiding them along the way.