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AxisVM for ArchiCAD
History of
Success
Graphic Tools Similar to ArchiCAD
Export the ArchiCAD Model
Efficiency and Accuracy
Intelligent CAD File Transfer
Clear Graphic Results
Analyze the Structure
Automated Functions
Advanced Finite Element Analysis
Intelligent Work Tools
Automatic Meshing
Quick Analysis Results
Intuitive Learning and Product
Support
Total Design Control
AxisVM for ArchiCAD is a world class software
that combines a complete building structural analysis capability with an
interface that allows architects to transfer their architectural design to a
structural analysis program.
For more than 10 years, designs made by
architects using ArchiCAD have been analyzed by structural engineers using
AxisVM. A rich history of cooperation between the results of ArchiCAD designers
and AxisVM users include simple structures that required renovation, to complex
multi-floor buildings where the entire building required advanced engineering
verification.
Many of the simple, yet intuitive tools on the
AxisVM graphical user interface look and feel the same as the modeling tools
used by architects familiar with ArchiCAD. To make an AxisVM analysis model from
an ArchiCAD drawing, simply save the ArchiCAD file as the unique AxisVM file
type.
A complex project designed in ArchiCAD can be
exported to the engineering office with complete dimensions and objects like
walls, columns, beams, slabs and roof specifications intact at the click of a
button, and without having to make any structural engineering decision.
Using AxisVM for ArchiCAD shortens the time
from design to construction and allows architects to transfer their work from
architectural modeling to engineering analysis modeling with the fewest steps.
AxisVM for ArchiCAD extends the functionality and cost effective performance of
the architectural office using ArchiCAD, and allows the architectural offices to
take the next step in computer aided design.
When total building analysis is needed from a
professional civil engineering partner, the AxisVM for ArchiCAD interface
eliminates the entire effort of redrawing the building from scratch. Not only is
time saved but the accuracy and the inherent quality of the finite element
modeling is assured.
The compact learning curve and online help in
AxisVM allows a user, with only basic structural engineering skills, to build
and evaluate the engineering model. Internal forces of columns or walls or the
deflections of a floor are shown in a graphic results display. Structural
weaknesses are immediately revealed and the user can plan revisions quickly.
Where AxisVM users need to see how any part of
their design performs under loads, the advanced AxisVM meshing tools allows fast
and easy conversion of the architects drawing to a finite element model.
AxisVM tools make it easy to assign a
continuous support to the bottom of a wall and the program can automatically
convert columns to support elements. Also, you can simply define a floor as a
plate or shell, even for the most sophisticated 3D geometry.
Of course, AxisVM also stands alone as a world
class finite element analysis tool. The features of the software meet the most
difficult and challenging demands.
Choose to convert all or some of the
structural objects like walls and columns into load bearing supports or convert
them into simple finite element objects for further AxisVM modeling. Choose from
the included extensive libraries the type of material, reinforced concrete,
steel or timber, for each object and then choose the loads command and specify
the loads to apply to the model. The AxisVM user can simply add missing or
modify existing structural details by clicking on the drawing tools.
The powerful Windows commands like screen displays, view rotations, undo, redo,
copy, move, or delete, work in a similar way to the ArchiCAD commands.
Select auto-meshing and the program assigns
triangular surface elements to the model. Check the geometry of the model and
then select what types of finite elements to utilize and apply the load cases.
The input data is verified in the first step. A static, vibration or buckling
analysis is just one click away.
AxisVM users that want to quickly see if their
designed structure will reliably withstand the loads, can easily master the
techniques needed to formulate the structural model and then to make design
adjustments, just by looking at the visual results display. Make changes or make
additions to the model and try the analysis again. The user can then be
confident that layout design view taking advantage of a beautiful seashore or
the slopes of a ski area can still be seen with the least impairment of the
aesthetics.
Of course, the are degrees of complexity that
each model may demand and the features needed to implement the total AxisVM
analysis solution will take some learning to master. But the intuitive learning
and the commonality of software tool designs and graphical user interface layout
with ArchiCAD, allow the AxisVM user to make the advancements from simple static
analysis to complex non-linear analysis achievable with speed and confidence.
The included Lotus screen cam tutorials can be
studied and user confidence and competence built in only a few hours. Users
often save common files that they have built and analyzed so they can simply
make modifications to conform to a new design. Most of the work is already done!
The AxisVM hotline provides more than product
support, it provides user support. It is not enough to tell you how the program
works, we promise to help you understand what to do with your unique model.
No one expects the architect to substitute for
the professionals in these fields and AxisVM is not an ‘engineer in a box’.
But the user needing to offer speedy design services and a fast ‘design to
construction’ time table, can utilize AxisVM to make structural analysis
decisions without waiting for the reports made by other software programs.
Preliminary structural analysis performed during the ArchiCAD design process can
save many hours and reduce redundant billing of CAD services on any size
project.
And of course, if you are designing that ‘once
in a lifetime’ project, the architect will see the cost effective results when
his engineering partner opens the ArchiCAD/AxisVM file and needs only simple
work to finish the design as a fully enabled finite element model.
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