One of the major advantages of BIM software is the ease of creating new objects with custom parameters. Among the most widely used BIM applications today are Revit, Navisworks, and ArchiCAD. Here, we will take a brief look at ArchiCAD as a typical example.
ArchiCAD, developed by Graphisoft, is a 3D architectural design software and one of the most popular BIM programs available today. It builds virtual 3D models using parameterized components and offers synchronized 2D and 3D expressions, providing an instant visualization and rendering platform. Its key features include:
1) Building Language: ArchiCAD’s editable objects are building components with inherent characteristics—for example, doors and windows can only be attached to walls. This approach allows for the classification and preservation of building-related information without interference.
2) Intelligent Tools: ArchiCAD equips users with user-friendly tools and establishes default rules to intelligently manage relationships between building elements. For instance, it automatically determines if connections or deductions are necessary among walls, columns, beams, and slabs.
3) Parameterized Language: ArchiCAD employs GDL (Geometric Description Language) for programming library objects with parameters. Although this code-based approach may reduce intuitiveness, it enhances flexibility. For BIM software handling large volumes of 3D data, this method improves performance and efficiency.
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