BIM NEWS 12.10.23
Greetings once again to my news platform! Today, I have a plethora of updates from the world of BIM for you. Together, we'll delve into both niche topics and major global updates. Happy reading!
Op-ed
I'll start today with updates from my blog and my channel. Here are a few new videos and articles I believe are worth your attention.
Here are two videos on using GPT CHAT and AI for creating code for Revit and Specle.
Here's an article on how I'm developing my platform using Speckle to streamline the workflow for designers
BIM 360 Cost Management – September 2023
In the new update of BIM 360 Cost Management, the following key features are introduced:
COST TOOL: Automatic adjustment of the retention limit. When the limit is exceeded, users will receive a warning and can adjust the retention.
CHANGE ORDER TOOL: Improved interface for displaying related change order numbers. There is also the added ability to select cost items for the volume of work in quote requests.
FORECAST TOOL: Enhancements in cash flow distribution. Project administrators can now select distribution items based on budget code segments or contracts.
This is just a brief overview of the new features.
More details can be read at the link.
Free 3D Textures: 14 Websites to Download High-Quality Textures
Architectural visualization often requires a variety of textures. Websites with free 3D textures come to the rescue. Using 3D textures offers many advantages: it speeds up design, accurately represents materials, and enhances realism. However, before downloading textures, it's important to check the licensing terms. Among the popular resources for free textures are Poly Haven, ambientCG, and CG Bookcase. All of them offer high-quality textures for various needs.
Digital Surveying for Construction
Modern construction and renovation of industrial enterprises require high precision in the initial data and extensive project information. Production efficiency depends on the quality of design, which in turn relies on the quality of geodetic works. The article discusses methods of conducting geodetic surveys at operating industrial enterprises using modern tools and technologies. Special attention is given to the use of UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and laser scanners, which ensure high precision in data collection. These technologies speed up the geodetic survey process, reduce risks for employees, and minimize the impact of human errors. In conclusion, the author emphasizes the importance of automated systems for collecting spatial information in modern industry.
The world′s longest bridge built without drawings – Part 1
The Randselva Bridge in Norway stands out in the world of architecture as it is the longest bridge built without drawings, relying solely on BIM models. This project is a bridge spanning 634 meters over the Randselva river, located near the town of H?nefoss. The article discusses the main challenges faced by the design and construction teams, as well as the practical solutions applied in this unique project. Special attention is given to the methods of dividing the project into parts, optimizing work processes, and software selection.
For a detailed study of the topic, it is recommended to refer to the original article.
Stable Diffusion render
Muhammad Ejle explores #StableDiffusion, using a diffusion model to smooth metaphorical 3D noise created with #evolutionarysolver in #Grasshopper into a comprehensible form. While its practical application is unclear, it serves as an artistic and phenomenological exploration of understanding an object without referencing its nature. Read more at the link
Top 8 new feautres in Blender 4.0 Beta useful for Architectural design
AI Backgrounds for Revit
The blog post by RD Studio discusses how to enhance the graphics in Revit and make designs visually stunning by using AI-generated backgrounds. The post provides instructions on how to add backgrounds to sections, elevations, and 3D views in Revit.
For sections and elevations, there are two options for scaling the background: relative to the width or relative to the height. The post explains how to adjust the background height and provides examples of the results.
For 3D views, the post explains how to create a 3D camera view and adjust the background height. Again, examples of the results are provided.
The post also introduces Midjourney, a tool for generating custom AI backgrounds. It provides prompts for generating different types of backgrounds, such as clear sky, sunrise, night sky, and dramatic sky. The post explains the parameters to use in the prompts and encourages users to be precise and add or exclude enough details to get the desired results.
Overall, the blog post aims to help users enhance their Revit designs by using AI-generated backgrounds and provides instructions and examples to guide them.
Top 20 pyRevit Tools for Revit
The blog, written by RD Studio , discusses the top 20 features of the #pyRevit plugin for Revit and highlights its benefits. The plugin, created by architect Ehsan Iran-Nejad, is powered by IronPython and offers a range of tools for developers to create add-ons for Revit using Python. The blog encourages readers to explore the various tools offered by pyRevit to improve productivity and minimize repetitive tasks in architectural design. The blog emphasizes that pyRevit is a free plugin and encourages readers to start using it to create impressive designs.
Managing Civil 3D Projects in the Cloud - Pt 1 - Project Creation
In a new blog post, Jeff Bartels introduces a multipart series on managing Civil 3D projects in the cloud. The previous session focused on creating new projects, uploading and viewing files, and accessing cloud content through web browsers or mobile devices. The upcoming session, scheduled for October 12th, will delve into controlling access to cloud projects by inviting members and assigning permissions. It will also explore initial collaborative workflows enabled by the cloud. Bartels encourages interested individuals to register for the live sessions.
No Geometry, Touching Geometry and Cut Geometry
In this engaging blog post by Jeremy Tammik, various topics related to BIM, geometry, pyRevit, and AI are discussed. The author starts by mentioning the dedicated pyRevit discussion forums for any pyRevit-related questions. Moving on, the author highlights the surprising fact that the BIM database does not store any geometry. Instead, the model we see is just a view of the elements, their relationships, parameters, and constraints. However, there are still tasks that require working with BIM element geometry, such as retrieving cut edges and getting touching elements. The author provides solutions and references to address these tasks. The concept of a stable representation of a reference is explained, which allows Revit to store information about references even if the geometry is gone. The author also shares a solution to retrieve CUT_EDGE references from walls using stable reference magic voodoo. The blog post concludes with brief mentions of Revit and IFC coordinate systems, deepfakes of Chinese influencers using AI, and the use and misuse of generative AI. Overall, the blog post provides valuable insights and practical solutions for various BIM-related tasks.
Enscape Releases Support for Archicad 27
Enscape3D , a real-time visualization plugin, has recently released a service pack that enables real-time rendering and visualization within Archicad 27. This plugin seamlessly integrates with popular CAD/BIM applications, including Archicad, and has been supporting it since version 2.3.
领英推荐
Using Enscape with Archicad is a straightforward process. After downloading Enscape and connecting your license, you can open a 3D window in your Archicad project and click the 'open Enscape' button from the Enscape toolbar. This activates the real-time walkthrough mode, allowing you to explore your project and provide stakeholders with a clear understanding of the design.
The integration between Archicad and Enscape also allows you to generate various media formats, such as static images, 360-degree panoramas, and videos, for your project. Additionally, with just one click and a compatible VR headset, you can experience your project in virtual reality.
Enscape not only supports the latest Archicad 27 but also older versions like Archicad 26, 25, and 24. This powerful combination of Enscape and Archicad has proven to be a time-saving design solution, as demonstrated by Fulton Trotter Architects. They were able to deliver high-profile academic projects quickly, even amidst the challenges of the COVID lockdowns. Enscape facilitated the decision-making process, allowing clients to make quick decisions and implement changes immediately.
According to John Ward, Firm Director of Fulton Trotter Architects, the Archicad and Enscape workflow played a crucial role in their success. They were able to take a project from concept to planning application in just three months, thanks to the ability to showcase high-quality images and sell their designs effectively.
The latest version of Dynamo, version 2.19, brings exciting updates to the node and package search feature. The search functionality has been greatly improved, making it easier to find the nodes and packages you need. The new search is more likely to provide relevant results and can handle different ways of expressing a node's name, including typos. The search improvements are available in the node library, in-canvas search, node autocomplete, and package search.
In addition to the search updates, Dynamo 2.19 introduces new ways to identify package nodes, such as zoom states and tooltips. The Python editor experience has also been enhanced with a new way to edit Python scripts and improved alignment with DesignScript styles. The release also includes better documentation for chart nodes, a new shortcut for inserting graphs, the ability to drag and drop notes to pin them, and a setting to control whether exported image file names include a time stamp.
Dynamo 2.19 is available for download from dynamobuilds.com, and more information can be found in the release notes.
Dynamo Core 2.19 Release
The latest version of Dynamo, version 2.19, brings exciting updates to the node and package search feature. The search functionality has been greatly improved, making it easier to find the nodes and packages you need. The new search is more likely to provide relevant results and can handle different ways of expressing a node's name, including typos. The search improvements are available in the node library, in-canvas search, node autocomplete, and package search.
In addition to the search updates, Dynamo 2.19 introduces new ways to identify package nodes, such as zoom states and tooltips. The Python editor experience has also been enhanced with a new way to edit Python scripts and improved alignment with DesignScript styles. The release also includes better documentation for chart nodes, a new shortcut for inserting graphs, the ability to drag and drop notes to pin them, and a setting to control whether exported image file names include a time stamp.
Important Update: Authentication v1 Deprecation Extended to April 30th, 2024 – Act Now!
In a recent blog post written by Jaime Rosales, the Autodesk Platform Services Community was informed about the deprecation of Authentication v1 for Autodesk Platform Services. However, in response to feedback from the community, the deprecation date has been extended to April 30th, 2024. This extension allows users more time to migrate their applications and workflows to Authentication v2.
Authentication has been an important service for Autodesk Platform Services, and the introduction of Authentication v2 brings enhancements such as PCKE support and new endpoints. It is crucial for users to complete their migration before the final date to avoid any disruptions to their services.
For existing apps, there are changes to the workflow, including the use of the new /token endpoint with ID and Secret for 2-legged workflows, and the use of the /authorize endpoint and obtained code with the /token endpoint for 3-legged workflows. A detailed migration guide is available to assist users through the process, and a dedicated support team is ready to provide assistance if needed.
The future looks promising with the innovations that Authentication v2 brings, and Autodesk Platform Services is grateful for the community's collaboration. It is important to act now to ensure a smooth transition before the final call for Authentication v1 on April 30th, 2024.
Lighting Design - Coefficient of Utilization Calculation in Revit
In his blog post, Dan Stine discusses the enhancements made to the Coefficient of Utilization Calculation for Absolute Photometry in Revit 2019. While the previous issues with absolute photometry have been resolved, there are still some calculation mysteries to be aware of. Stine sets up four square spaces with different types of luminaires to explore these mysteries. He explains that the Coefficient of Utilization appears to be correct, with slight variations between the absolute and relative fixtures. However, there are still some remaining calculation mysteries, such as the dependence of the "Average Estimated Illumination" parameter on the "Initial Intensity" parameter, which can lead to confusion. Stine also points out the illogical difference in average illuminance between the "Relative" and "Relative-Bogus Lamp Lumens" cases. He compares the rendering of relative and absolute lighting fixtures in Revit and highlights the differences. Stine concludes by mentioning that Revit uses the Zonal Cavity Method for calculating average illuminance, which is only accurate for rectangular-shaped rooms. He suggests using a radiosity calculation for more accurate results. Despite these challenges, Stine acknowledges the progress made in addressing the issues with absolute photometry in Revit.
My biggest mistake Learning Python in the AEC
In this engaging blog post, Krzysztof Wojslaw Wojslaw shares his personal journey of learning #Python in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry. He always had a curiosity for programming and wanted to make tasks more efficient and enjoyable. However, the programming courses taught in university didn't align with his interests.
After completing his studies, he rediscovered programming and found Python to be a user-friendly language with a simple syntax. He learned the basics and even earned a certificate, feeling proud to say, "I can code in Python." However, he soon realized that knowing a programming language alone wasn't enough to apply it to his job in working with 3D models.
Feeling discouraged, Krzysztof took a break from programming. But then he discovered tools like Grasshopper and Rhino, which made coding fun again and showed him how it could enhance his work. He started using visual programming and became excited about speeding up tasks.
However, he also realized that visual programming had its limitations. To overcome them, he turned to text-based programming with Python. By combining his knowledge of Grasshopper with Python, he could create more efficient and concise code. This is when he truly started using Python for his work.
Krzysztof emphasizes the importance of learning programming in a relevant context. He advises beginners to learn using real job examples, such as using Grasshopper or Rhino to practice Python. He also suggests trying Python in other tools like Excel, even though it might feel slower at first.
In the end, Krzysztof shares a guide with practical applications of Python in the AEC industry, catering to various professionals like architects, BIM coordinators, structural engineers, and geotechnical engineers.
Preparation for AU 2023
In his blog post, Kean Walmsley shares the highlights of his team's busy week. They had a virtual offsite where they used LEGO to brainstorm and plan for the upcoming year. Due to the pandemic, their original plans to hire a LEGO practitioner for team-building events had to be changed, and they decided to try "Serious Play" instead.
The team also made great progress on their exhibition in Toronto, which will be followed by a showcase at AU 2023 in Las Vegas. Kean is excited about the exhibition and can't wait for people to see it.
Inspired by a recent conference in Munich, Kean has been working on integrating VASA into Forma. He wanted to test whether VASA would work for urban pathfinding using context geometry from Forma. He explored different approaches, including using Dynamo with STL output from Forma or directly using their WebAssembly package via Forma's Extension View SDK. Kean plans to share more details about this project in future blog posts.
Kean needed to finish the integration before recording a VASA class for AU, as he wanted to include a demo. He is satisfied with how it turned out and will share more about the process soon.
After the recording, Kean is looking forward to going on a vacation to Cinque Terre with his family. He has never been there before and plans to share pictures of the trip once they return.
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Helping AEC Professionals Optimize BIM Workflows, Automate Revit Tasks & Deliver High-Quality Project Faster | BIM Consultant | Revit & Dynamo Expert | Founder@ BIM Plus
1 年Great stuff Niko.. as always. Thanks for sharing