Mr. Dana K. Smith, an American scholar, once stated, “The era of relying on a single software to solve all engineering problems is over.” A key feature of BIM (Building Information Modeling) is its reliance on multiple software solutions rather than just one. Each software has its strengths and weaknesses, so the effective application of BIM technology in engineering requires leveraging the advantages of various programs to maximize BIM’s value.
In bridge engineering, the mainstream commercial BIM platform software includes Autodesk and Bentley from the United States, Dassault from France, and Tekla from Finland.
Autodesk Revit
Modeling capability: Strong overall, but it can be challenging to manage complex spatial surfaces.
Parameterization: Comes with a rich library of parameterized component families. Custom parameters can be created using dimension annotations through templates or mass models to generate new family components. When combined with Dynamo, it enables advanced parametric design.
Collaboration: Excellent. Autodesk offers a wide range of products that integrate with various software to meet diverse needs and supports secondary development.
Limitations in bridge engineering: Primarily focused on building construction projects and lacks dedicated bridge family components.
Bentley MicroStation
Modeling capability: Strong, with easy-to-use shortcut keys and support for multi-window operations.
Parameterization: Basic parameterization can be achieved through the Feature Modeling module, with more advanced parametric design possible by combining the Generative Components (GC) module.
Collaboration: Excellent. Bentley’s platform provides comprehensive engineering solutions, a broad range of software, and supports secondary development.
Limitations in bridge engineering: Essentially functions as drawing and modeling software similar to Autodesk CAD. It lacks an information management module and requires integration with other Bentley platform software.
Dassault CATIA
Modeling capability: Excellent, primarily designed for high-precision industries such as aerospace, machinery, and energy.
Parameterization: Supports parameterized modeling through functions like parameter equations, dimension annotations, and constraint relationships.
Collaboration: Excellent. Dassault’s product lineup is comprehensive, including SIMULIA for simulation and DELMIA for construction management, with support for secondary development.
Limitations in bridge engineering: Not specifically designed for civil engineering and comes with a high price tag.
Tekla Structures
Modeling capability: Moderate. It struggles with complex spatial models and only supports member or plate elements.
Parameterization: Built-in section library components are adjustable parameterized units. Users can also create other sections through a sketch editor, applying dimension annotations and constraint relationships for parameterization.
Collaboration: Fair. Besides Tekla Structures, only BIMSight is used for clash detection, and secondary development is supported.
Limitations in bridge engineering: Does not support importing solid models.
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up