Currently, the most commonly used core modeling software includes Archicad, Bentley, and Revit.
Archicad
Developed by Nemetschek in the 1980s, Archicad is a 3D design software specifically created for architectural purposes. It is based on the GDL language and offers powerful 2D and 3D conversion capabilities, along with unique advantages in document storage and drawing management.
Advantages:
1. Excellent compatibility — supports both Mac and Windows platforms and can quickly convert 2D DWG drawing files into 3D data files.
2. Strong drawing capabilities — BIM forward design automatically generates plans, elevations, and sections based on the built model, which can be modified in coordination. Its CAD layer functions align well with common user habits.
3. Good performance and speed with relatively low hardware requirements.
Disadvantages:
1. Modeling complex or irregular surfaces can be inconvenient.
2. While architectural modeling is robust, the structural and equipment specialties offer limited functionalities and are used less frequently.
3. When handling large projects, the use of global parameter rules may cause system scaling issues that reduce efficiency.
Bentley
Developed by Bentley in 2004, this software supports architecture, structure, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, collision detection, and more. Its collaborative platform and various modules make it suitable for a wide range of housing and municipal infrastructure projects.
Advantages:
1. A unified collaborative management platform enhances teamwork across different disciplines, boosting efficiency and reducing costs.
2. Powerful modeling capabilities that enable true 3D, detailed modeling, and precise spatial positioning of pipeline structures.
3. Excellent file compatibility, lightweight models, and ease of use on mobile devices.
Disadvantages:
1. The software is complex to operate, with limited online learning resources and insufficient promotion, making it difficult to master quickly.
Revit
First developed by Autodesk in 2003, Revit is a core BIM modeling software divided into three functional modules: Revit Architecture, Revit Structure, and Revit MEP. These assist in creating specialized models for different disciplines. Revit offers a rich family library and is currently one of the most widely used modeling software.
Advantages:
1. Comes with an extensive family library, allowing flexible modeling through system families, built-in families, and loadable families, which can be accessed and modified at any time.
2. Parameter-driven management — model data is parameterized during the BIM building process, improving accuracy at each stage.
3. Linked modifications between plans, elevations, and sections, with automatic updates of detailed schedules to avoid repetitive tasks and reduce errors.
4. Equipped with collision detection features, enabling visual inspection of errors, omissions, clashes, and defects, which helps reduce correction costs.
Disadvantages:
1. The traditional AutoCAD layer concept has been removed, so modelers and cost control professionals require time to adapt.
2. Modeling irregular surfaces is relatively complex, and the software demands high hardware performance, which may affect speed.
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