Version 23
Project Management, Overall System
Archive Project (optional module)
Archive Project: The holder of the archive project is defined by the holder's identifier. This is also displayed as the archive project holder. Previously, the computer name was automatically used as the identifier. The definition of this identifier has now been made flexible:
A more meaningful identifier allows the current holder to be identified as a person.
If the current holder is not available but the project needs to be released, the current holder identifier can be entered directly as text. Attention! It must be ensured that the current holder is not currently active.
The identifier setting is done in Project Management 5-3 Paths, System. Possible inputs:
The identifier can be entered directly as clear text. The identifier is then completely independent of the computer configuration.
Alternatively, Windows environment variables can be used:
%COMPUTERNAME% for the computer name
%USERNAME% for the Windows login name of the user
Any other Windows system environment variables or self-defined environment variables
Display, General Input
Program Windows - Large Monitors
In the CAD workstation area, large monitors with screen diagonals over 27" are becoming increasingly widespread. To also support workstations equipped with only one - but very large (≥ 49") - monitor, the behavior of programs in non-maximized windows has been optimized. Additionally, the size and position of individual program windows (Menu, Building, PlanCad, Profile, Statics, etc.) are now captured and saved when closing the application. When opening the respective application next time, these are then restored. This optimally supports simultaneous work in multiple program applications on a single monitor.
Direct2D is now also used in the Building module. Direct2D utilizes graphics card capabilities in wireframe mode and for plan elements.
Graphics construction is correspondingly faster, especially rotating the wireframe model runs smoother.
Display quality becomes finer through possible edge smoothing. Particularly diagonal lines no longer appear stepped.
Working simply feels smoother.
To select this, call up the dialog "1-7-2 Screen Elements" in Free Construction and set the parameter "Graphics System" to Direct2D. If your graphics card has compatibility problems, you can also switch back to the previously used GDI system here.
Drawing Elements
Height Dimensions
Height dimensions primarily serve to specify height measurements in views and sections. In addition to the pure height specification, their reference (OK RFB / OK FFB) to the height to be dimensioned also represents an important part of the height dimensions. In addition to purely specifying the height measurement and its reference, height dimensions are also increasingly used for textual representation of additional information. For height dimensions with 'Top' orientation, this could be information about floor construction. For height dimensions with 'Bottom' orientation, information about the design of ceiling undersides. Therefore, the 'Generate Height Dimensions' function has been extended with the following options:
'Dimensioning Style'
In this edit, the current dimensioning style to be used for the height dimension can be directly selected via dropdown. The 'Manage Settings' button allows the dimensioning style to be directly changed or adjusted and saved if necessary.
'Text before the dimension number (Prefix)'
Text field for entering text that should appear before the dimension number of the height dimension. This could be, for example, the identifier 'OK FFB'. Furthermore, 'User/' and 'System variables' can also be accessed via the icon at the end of the field.
'Text after the dimension number (Suffix)'
Text field for entering text that should appear after the dimension number of the height dimension. Furthermore, 'User/' and 'System variables' can also be accessed via the icon at the end of the field.
'Additional text under the height dimension'
Access to 'User/' and 'System variables' has been additionally built into this already existing field. This is also done via the icon at the end of the field.
When 'User/' and 'System variables' are used as strings or partial strings in the above-mentioned edits, the current variable assignment at the time of entering a height dimension can be accessed. After inserting a height dimension, these strings or partial strings are static. If you call up the 'Change' function for such a height dimension, you can see that the final texts are entered in the corresponding places.
Symbol Lines
In construction drawings, plans, and general construction drawings, symbols and texts are often used that are distributed along a line. Typically, these represent break edges, supply and drainage lines, planting requirements, line rights, etc.
To comfortably represent this, 'Symbol Lines' have been introduced as new drawing elements.
'Symbol Lines' are thus plan elements that consist of a combination of a drawing element ('Line', 'Circle', 'Circular Arc', or 'Polylines') as the base type and texts or symbols that are distributed along the drawing element.
Creating 'Symbol Lines'
'Symbol Lines' are fully integrated into the existing line style settings. To define a new line style for a 'Symbol Line', call up the 'Settings' function from the 'Draw' menu. If you set the checkbox 'Create Symbol Line' in the 'Symbol Lines' frame, the 'Text' button is activated in the lower half of the dialog box. This button takes you to the dialog section where you can make the specific settings for the 'Symbol Lines'.
'Execute from'
'Toggle' - 'from scale 1 to:' As with 'Hatching', scale-dependent settings can be made for 'Symbol Lines'. If you want to create a new group, simply toggle right and enter the scale from which the settings from the rest of the dialog should be applied. These are then used from the set scale and all scales that lie between the current and the next larger set scale. The order of settings or scales must be ascending (e.g., first scale setting 1:0, second 1:10, third 1:20, fourth 1:50, and fifth 1:100).
'Minimum line length:' By definition, texts or symbols are distributed along symbol lines. When drawing entire line sequences, very short line segments can also be created where the display of texts and/or symbols would be disturbing. To avoid this, a minimum line length can be specified from which texts and/or symbols are first generated.
'Text'
'Text style:' This dropdown selects the text style to be used for the texts and/or symbols of the 'Symbol Line'. The properties ('Font', 'Font height', 'Texts interrupt lines', etc.) and appearance ('Font weight', 'Color set', etc.) of all textual elements of a 'Symbol Line' are controlled via the selected text style. Symbol Lines only save the name of the text style, not the entire style itself. The advantage of this method is that text style adjustments are automatically adopted by Symbol Lines.
The 'Manage Settings' button can additionally call up the 'Text Style Settings' dialog.
'Text:' The actual texts and/or symbols that will later be distributed along the line are entered in this edit. Only single-line texts can be entered here.
'Rotation angle:' The rotation angle determines the orientation of the text and/or symbols to the line. The angle is always specified and considered in relation to the drawn line.
'Distribution (absolute)'
Division function The division of texts and/or symbols along the line itself is done analogously to the already known division functions for components, drawing elements, etc.
As with the just-mentioned methods for components, it is also possible when distributing texts and/or symbols along a line to choose between 'Center dimension' and 'Clear' for the division of texts and/or symbols.
The values for the division function are always given 'absolutely', i.e., in the model and not on paper, in the unit set in the program.
'Reference edge for distance:'
Depending on the desired symbol line type, the orientation of texts and/or symbols along the line can be different. For this, you can choose between three options in the 'Reference edge for distance' dropdown. With the 'Bottom edge' option, texts and/or symbols are placed with their bottom edge on the line. 'Center line' ensures that texts and/or symbols are generated centered on the line. With 'Top edge', texts and/or symbols are hung with their top edge on the line.
'Baseline distance:' For texts and/or symbols, the 'Bottom edge', 'Center line', and 'Top edge' can never be exactly determined due to different font definitions and individual setting possibilities ("air" or "meat" around the "typeface") within a font. To compensate for this, there is the possibility to set an individual offset with which texts and/or symbols are moved perpendicular to the line. The required offset is entered in the 'Baseline distance' edit. Texts and/or symbols can thus be positioned exactly on the line or at a defined distance from it with their top and bottom edges or center line.
Entering 'Symbol Lines'
To enter a 'Symbol Line', first select an appropriate line style if it is not already selected. Then drawing 'Symbol Lines' is done using the existing input functions 'Line', 'Circle', 'Circular Arc', 'Polyline', etc. Entering ellipses with a symbol line style is not possible.
Editing 'Symbol Lines'
'Symbol Lines' can be edited with existing functions from the 'Edit' menu. They do not differ from drawing elements ('Line', 'Circular Arc', 'Polyline', etc.) without symbols. The existing rules and mechanisms apply accordingly to 'Symbol Lines' as well.
Some edits lead to a change in line length, such as 'Trim'. With these edits, "new" lines are created to which the division of texts and/or symbols is then newly applied according to the set rules.
The 'Transfer Properties' function is not available for 'Symbol Lines'.
Changing 'Symbol Lines'
The 'Change' function can be called up for individual 'Symbol Lines' without restriction.
If the function is applied to different elements, such as a normal 'Line' and a 'Symbol Line', only the common properties can be changed in the 'Line' dialog.
If you call up the function on multiple symbol lines with the same number of scale-dependent settings, all properties can be edited in the 'Line' and 'Text' dialogs. Differences in properties are represented with three asterisks ('***') in the corresponding edits.
If the 'Change' function is called up on multiple symbol lines with different numbers of scale-dependent settings, only the common settings can be changed in the 'Line' dialog.
'Symbol Lines' thus offer many advantages in drawing creation:
They offer a "closed" system that can be managed and applied as such. You don't have to work with individual texts and lines.
'Symbol Lines' are fully integrated into the line style setting.
With the familiar functions 'Line', 'Circle', 'Circular Arc', and 'Polyline', 'Symbol Lines' can be created or entered as usual from other drawing elements.
'Symbol Lines' can be changed and adapted using existing methods ('Change', 'Trim', 'Stretch', etc.) from the 'Edit' menu, making their handling very simple when changes occur.
The integration is consistent and 'Symbol Lines' can be used across programs. They are available in the programs 'Building', 'Profile', 'PlanCad', 'Statics', and 'Loading Planning'.
Building
General
Two new icons have been built into the building navigation. With the 'All On' icon, all checkboxes in the building navigation tree are turned on. With the 'All Off' icon, all checkboxes are turned off. Sometimes it's the faster way to first turn all checkboxes on or off and then toggle the few checkboxes you want differently.
Display Settings
The display settings on the screen have been completely revised and are now also available as permanent palette dialogs. The operation has thus changed, expanded, and improved in every model area; only the new dialogs are available. To optimally utilize the possibilities, we recommend using the available films and participating in appropriate update training.
With the revision, fundamental requirements were implemented:
Uniform options and operation of areas in all model areas
Dialogs are permanently operable as palette dialogs
Operation remains clear and comfortable even with extended options
Dialogs are suitable for future extensions
For basic views, views, and sections: Display on screen matches plan output
In addition, many extensions and improvements in detail were achieved.
Display Settings as permanent palette dialog:
The dialogs are now basically permanently open, usually also docked to a screen side. This allows display changes to be made immediately at any time without having to call up a dialog.
If not yet turned on: Call up dialogs via function 1-7-1, menu, or icon.
Dialog is then always permanent, close via X in upper right
if not docked: Possibility of full view (icon in upper function bar)
all groups are displayed open
the dialog can be changed in height with the mouse. The groups are automatically redistributed while the group always stays together.
the same in all model areas:
whether docked or not
where docked and in which group
which of the dialog function bars is on top
kept separate in each model area:
expanded or collapsed
when not docked: whether full view, associated size
Switch: only one group open
which groups are open
The favorites in the icon bar can also be selected for the new dialogs. Depending on the favorite setting, the palette dialog remains closed or collapsed, or it is opened or expanded.
Calling up function 1-7-1, menu, keyboard shortcut, or icon again acts like a toggle switch:
If the dialog is not docked, it is alternately opened or closed
If the dialog is docked, it is alternately expanded or collapsed
Note: The keyboard shortcut cannot be used when the focus is on a checkbox or in an input field.
In the group lines of the display dialogs, a checkbox is offered with which all checkboxes of the group can be set or reset with one click. This allows you to very quickly create a good starting situation, depending on whether you want to turn a lot on or off
Settings - Display: Components
In this group, the building components of the construction are managed. In all model areas, all components are now switchable in the same division.
To accommodate the many options in a manageable size, a matrix is used in some dialog groups. For the "Components" group, it is structured as follows:
the upper part is divided into 6 columns
The columns stand consecutively for the model areas or building structure "S Story / W Wall / D Ceiling / D Roof / S Framework / F Free Construction".
below are checkboxes for the component types or in the roof for the rafters, purlins, etc., that belong to this model area or building structure.
in the lower part are 6 corresponding rows
According to the displayed texts, the first row belongs to the first column, the second to the second, etc.
In the edit before the text, the MOS groups can be specified that should be displayed from this model area. As usual: empty = all, range via .. (-2..2), individual separated by slash (-2/0/6).
The columns and rows are also connected via the diagonally arranged checkboxes. These checkboxes switch the entire model area. The selection of component types is retained. This is therefore suitable for, e.g., turning off wall components without losing the selected component types or groups.
In the floor plan, note that there is this group for the components of the current story and then again for all other components. Since the roof belongs to no story, this column does not exist in the group for the current story.
Settings - Display: Building Elements, Plan Elements
In this group, building elements and plan elements are switched. A matrix is also used in this dialog group.
It is divided into 6 columns
The columns stand consecutively for the model areas or building structure "S Story / W Wall / D Ceiling / D Roof / S Framework / F Free Construction".
The rows offer different objects
Wall bodies, ceiling and roof layer plates
Stairs, house contour, chimney: "Stairs" captures all stair components. These are ignored in the "Components" group.
Reference axes, -contours, roof skin
Brick layers: The brick layer contour, not the roof layer plate
Elements: The element boundaries from the various building elements are displayed
Measurement elements: Display of measurement elements generated particularly by rooms
Floor cuts can now also be displayed in many model areas. It can be set whether only components of current walls should be considered in the floor cut, or all components that lie at the cutting height. Components are considered here regardless of their visibility. The height of the floor cut is measured from the bottom edge of each wall; for non-wall components, the cutting height of the first wall applies.
to 10. The plan elements of the respective model area.
In the floor plan, note that there is this group for the components of the current story and then again for all other components. Since the roof belongs to no story, this column does not exist in the group for the current story.
Settings - Display: Story List, Floor Plan Information
In the story list, the general visibility of stories is switched: If the story is turned off here, nothing from this story can be displayed, even if corresponding checkboxes are set in other groups.
The story list is now available in all model areas, including wall construction. However, the visibility of the story does not affect the current wall here.
In the story list, basic views can now also be selected in meaningful model areas. Thus, plan elements of basic views can now also be displayed in ceiling, roof, and DICAM.
There is the following important rule regarding story visibility when loading settings: In Free Construction, story visibility is not read from the setting; it remains as set on the screen. In all other model areas, the exact story visibility is taken from the setting.
Depending on the model area, there are still possibilities under the story list to display floor plan information.
Generally, the goal was to achieve the same display on screen as in a plan
All texts (numbers, values) were provided with a text style.
Viewing directions now permanently switchable.
Stair display now as in the plan.
the following was added to already existing possibilities:
Wall information combined in a dialog box: wall numbers, connection situation, viewing direction...
Display window numbers now switchable in window settings
Ceiling numbers displayable
Frameworks with viewing direction
Roof surface information: roof surface number, roof slope, line number
Display of building section positions as in floor plan
Settings - Display: Group Layer Switching
In the model areas Wall Construction, Ceiling Construction, and Roof, there are settings for MOS Group and layer contours in the main group. These are now offered in a comfortable listing.
Layer contours
All layers from 7 to -7 are visible simultaneously, no scrolling necessary.
Layer 0 is highlighted.
The current layer thickness is displayed behind the layers.
With the topmost checkbox, all layers can be switched simultaneously.
MOS groups for components
Groups from 7 to -7 are visible simultaneously. Groups above 7 and below -7 can be scrolled separately.
Group 0 is highlighted.
With the topmost checkbox, all groups can be switched simultaneously. This also affects those not visible due to current scrolling.
Settings - Display: Work Planes
In this group, which only exists in the Free Construction model area, the visibility of plan elements of work planes can be switched in the usual way.
Settings - Display: Information, Construction Display
This group contains familiar options for information and display:
Information, labeling
for components, component groups, and elements
Labels are only displayed for visible components. For labeling component groups, at least one component of the component group must be visible.
For displaying element labeling, at least one component of the element or the element boundaries from the "Building Elements, Plan Elements" group must be visible.
Display of "linear" edits: holes, markings, ...
Switching of displayed edge types
In the "special lines" selection, the axis display can be set.
Screen Dimensioning and Labeling Settings
The screen dimensioning and labeling settings in floor plan and basic views were previously called up from Display Settings. These settings have been completely revised and are now also available as their own permanent palette dialogs. The operation has thus changed, expanded, and improved; only the new dialogs are available. To optimally utilize the possibilities, we recommend using the available films and participating in appropriate update training.
With the revision, fundamental requirements were implemented:
Direct call-up of dimensioning and labeling settings. Dimensioning and labeling favorites can be called up independently of display settings.
Dialogs are permanently operable as palette dialogs
Operation remains clear and comfortable even with extended options
Dialogs are suitable for future extensions
Dimensioning and Labeling Settings as permanent palette dialog:
The dialogs are now basically permanently open, usually also docked to a screen side. This allows dimensioning and labeling changes to be made immediately at any time without having to call up a dialog.
If not yet turned on: Call up dialogs via function 1-7-3, menu, or icon.
Dialog is then always permanent, close via X in upper right
if not docked: Possibility of full view (icon in upper function bar)
all groups are displayed open
the dialog can be changed in height with the mouse. Groups are automatically redistributed, with the group always staying together.
Favorites in the icon bar can also be selected for these dialogs. Depending on the favorite setting, the palette dialog remains closed or collapsed, or it is opened or expanded.
Dimensioning and Labeling Settings
The dimensioning and labeling possibilities basically correspond to those known from basic views.
The switching for basic display of generated dimensioning and labeling has been moved from display here to the top group as the top point.
The switching for automatic recalculation has been moved from display here to the top group as the second point.
The options have been regrouped and cleaned up.
The possibility from the threshold plan to label and dimension thresholds has been adopted in the "special components" group.
General Input
Layer selection in post-processing: In wall and ceiling construction, individual layer contours can be post-processed. For this, the affected layers are selected in a corresponding, now revised dialog:
All layers are now visible at a glance. The central layer 0 is specially set off for orientation.
As before, the layer thicknesses are displayed behind the layers. This quickly shows which layer in the wall or ceiling structure it is.
Above the layers is a checkbox. By setting this checkbox, all layers are set, i.e., selected or deselected. This enables very fast selection when only few or many layers are to be selected. The method of the superordinate checkbox is being uniformly introduced at many places in the program.
Speed
Strong speed increases could again be achieved in various places:
Building navigation construction and model area switching with very many elements: improved by factor 10 from several minutes.
Inserting or recalculating a combination element in a large position: from 65s to 9sec.
Floor plan with floor cut or automatic hatching and fills: Leaving display switching or changing story accelerated by factor 20
Floor plan with very many combination elements - Calling up function to change combination element insertion: Time after calling up function until prompting to select combination element was reduced to less than 1/10.
Combination elements in floor plan or wall construction recalculate after editing: only 1/2 to 1/3 of the time.
Doors on complex ceilings, for recalculation less than 1/2 the time.
Visualization
Texture orientation has been adjusted. This achieves better representation, especially for BSH:
Surfaces parallel to cross-section height show the long sides of lamellae with glue joints.
Surfaces parallel to cross-section width show long sides of lamellae without glue joints.
Sections show end grain of lamellae, with the glue joint always parallel to the underside of the beam.
Inclined surfaces are approximated as closely as possible.
In construction, walls usually run from bottom edge to top edge of the story. In views, this creates story separation lines that are usually not visible in reality. These story separation lines are now automatically removed by the program:
In views and sections when calculated hidden
(V23) In OpenGL workspace and OpenGL viewer in display methods: Hidden, Fill, and Textures with edges.
On screen and for plans.
Conditions for separation lines:
They belong to touching wall bodies. Because such separation lines between plates may not be removed.
The surfaces at the separation lines lie exactly in one plane. Because if there is an offset between walls, then you must continue to see the edge.
The wall bodies must have the same color and texture sets. Because if the walls have different surfaces, e.g., formwork and plaster, then a separation line must continue to be displayed here.
Modules for Special Constructions or Construction Areas
Cross-Laminated Timber Plus (optional module)
The default values have been revised and updated to V23 standard. This makes input feel more consistent and saves time. Furthermore, the new V23 default values can be combined without additional effort.
The window settings and template files have been adapted to the new "Windows with Shading". Additionally, the window settings now respond via the new conditions. With further adjustments in the template file, it is now also possible to use the standard supplied interior doors.
For connection situations with walls in visible quality, a new connection at corner and T-joints has been defined. This creates a hidden groove so that no joint is visible anymore. The connection is set via wall attributes Type2.
The migration process for the "BSP Plus Package" is now significantly simpler. Additional data exchange with the component library is no longer necessary.
The lifting systems have been revised. The component position (wall, ceiling, roof) was previously derived from the MOS since this is unique. Accordingly, the conditions for attachment positions were determined and correctly executed. On components without MOS, e.g., from a defective IFC model, the MOS information was thus missing. Application of lifting systems was only possible after further MOS adjustments. Now the component position (wall, ceiling, roof) is determined via system points of the query bodies. Thus, plates without MOS can be edited directly after import. Furthermore, the help images have been adapted to the new surface, and for all lifting systems it is now possible to define a second attachment point per side. The manufacturer's approval must also be observed!
Basic Views
Basic Views - 'Edit Basic View'
A particular strength of basic views is that they can be arbitrarily nested and mutually referenced. However, only drawing elements that belong to the current basic view you are currently in can be edited. If you want to edit drawing elements that belong to another basic view, you must switch to the corresponding basic view via building navigation.
This switch has now also been integrated into the context menu 'MiddleMouse'. After calling up the context menu, you find the function 'Edit Basic View'. Then you graphically select a drawing element in the construction area that you want to edit. The program then automatically switches to the corresponding basic view or floor plan, and the drawing elements can be edited.
Display basic views in other model areas:
In the story list of the new Display Settings, basic views can be selected in meaningful model areas. Thus, plan elements of basic views can now also be displayed in Ceiling, Roof, and DICAM. This makes important information drawn in basic views for special purposes available in other affected model areas. This is particularly used in MEP.
Views, Sections
Different requirements for display and dimensioning and labeling of views and sections are made for the individual phases of the planning and construction process. The existing system of views and sections from the roof or roof structure is completely replaced with version 23.01 by the new model area 'Views, Sections'. Thus, a separate model area optimized for the application purpose is now available.
'Model Area'
The new model area 'Views, Sections' can only be used in connection with building navigation. This is activated in DICAM via function '1-7-2 Screen Elements'. The model area 'Views, Sections' is listed as a node, individual views, sections, section areas, and section courses are listed as sheets in building navigation. Switching to a view/section is done by selection in building navigation.
The model area 'Views, Sections' has its own ribbon reduced to the application purpose. As for any other model area, icon bars, shortcuts, object snap, and other settings can be individually adjusted or made.
By right-clicking on the 'Views, Sections' node or on an existing view/section, the building navigation context menu opens. Via the 'New View, Section' function, a new view/section can be created via the method known from previous versions.
'Views, Sections'
Any number of views and sections can be created. Each view/section has the following individual settings and saves them:
'Number', 'Name'
The number serves to identify and organize views/sections within building navigation and must be unique. Furthermore, the number is used as reference when displaying other sections. For quick orientation and recognition in building navigation, a name can be assigned.
'Identifier for plan filing', 'Display in floor plan/rafter-purlin plan'
The position of views/sections can optionally be displayed in floor plans and rafter-purlin plans or not. The display in the corresponding plans is switched via checkbox. An identifier is used for identification of views/sections in these plans and is output. This must be unique.
'View, Section Display - Lines'
As already known from earlier versions, for line display you can choose between 'visible only', 'visible and hidden', and 'all lines'. If a representation as pure raster graphics is to be generated, vector graphics display can be turned off with the 'no lines' option.
'View, Section Display - OpenGL' (optional module 'Shadows and Depth Effects')
see separate chapter: 'Textures'
'Lines, OpenGL and Display automatically recalculate'
see separate chapter: 'Lines, OpenGL and Display automatically recalculate'
'Image section'
For displaying details or sections of a view/section, the image section can optionally be saved or not.
'Layer Dialog'
The visibility of layers and layer groups can be saved separately for each view/section. If a layer group is saved, other layers are automatically hidden and layer management is reduced to this group.
'Display Settings'
For each view/section, screen display can be saved separately. This also includes story visibility and display of other views/sections and their plan elements.
'Dimensioning and Labeling Settings'
see separate chapter 'Dimensioning and Labeling'
'Scale'
Views/sections do not use layer scale settings for displaying dimensions and texts. For displaying the mentioned elements, the scale is entered at the respective view/section.
The mentioned settings work analogously to the settings as already known from the basic view system.
'Dimensioning and Labeling'
Automatic dimensioning and labeling is now available for views/sections. This can be set and checked directly in the respective view/section. The settings made in the building are directly adopted from the screen for plan filing. In the output of the new 'View, Section Plan' (Menu '1-01-5'), no settings need to be made in this regard.
The basis of this dimensioning and labeling are the automatic dimensioning and labeling of section drawing and profile plan. These have been merged, revised, and implemented in the form of a new palette dialog for views/sections.
For further information on display and dimensioning and labeling, reference is made to the corresponding chapters 'Display Settings' and 'Screen Dimensioning and Labeling Settings' of this document.
'Textures' (optional module 'Shadows and Depth Effects')
Especially in communication with end customers, attractive visualization of building projects plays an important role. For this, the OpenGL standard has been used for a long time, which allows visualization of complex geometries in real time. This technology has been integrated into the new model area 'Views, Sections'.
Via the 'View, Section Display - OpenGL' dropdown in the 'Edit' menu, you can choose between the following display types for each view:
'hidden'
'fill'
'Textures'
'Textures with edges'
The display of textures can be combined with display as vector graphics ('View, Section Display - Lines'). This makes the system particularly powerful since OpenGL techniques can be used for visualizations and vector graphics for necessary precision.
'Shadows and Depths' (optional module 'Shadows and Depth Effects')
If an OpenGL display is used for visualization, shadow casting and depth gradients can additionally be set. This can further increase visualization quality and add important elements.
The settings for shadows and depth effects are listed as a separate group in the 'Dimensioning and Labeling' dialog.
For shadows, a color for 'ambient light' and a color for 'directional light' can each be set. The position of the light source can be determined via the input fields 'Light incidence left/right' and 'Light incidence hor.'.
Depth effects represent gradient filters and model blur, so e.g., building parts closer to the viewer can be more strongly accentuated than building parts further away from the viewer. The method distinguishes between elements from OpenGL display and lines from vector graphics display.
For the 'Depth gradient display - Surfaces' method, a fading color can be selected which is laid as "fog" over the selected building areas. The beginning and end of the depth gradient is determined by percentage specification of a start or end value or can alternatively be picked directly in the construction area. The initial and final intensity of fading can additionally be influenced by specifying an effectiveness degree (saturation of fading color).
Depth gradients can also be created for vector graphics lines. Since a line cannot change its color gradient, up to three depth settings can be selected for vector graphics elements. The setting areas can also be set percentually or picked directly in the construction area. In addition to the possibility of directly determining a line color for these settings, an effectiveness degree (line color saturation) can also be specified. Additionally, line thicknesses can be individually set for each depth setting.
'Lines, OpenGL and Display automatically recalculate'
Since visualization calculation, especially with the 'visible only' setting, can be very computationally intensive, the possibility to specifically turn off automatic recalculation for views/sections has been built into the 'Edit' dialog. If automatic calculation is turned off, it can be triggered via the context menu of the respective view/section. Alternatively, a menu entry ('9-06 View, Section - Recalculate') is also available for this. If recalculation is deactivated for a view/section, this is indicated by an exclamation mark ("!") in building navigation. The user must ensure that views/sections are recalculated before plan filing.
'Light Settings - DICAM' (optional modules 'Shadows and Depth Effects' / 'OpenGL Workspace')
The OpenGL workspace in DICAM has also been extended with the possibility to display shadows. Under menu item '9-5-3 Light Settings', at the bottom of the appearing dialog is a checkbox with which shadow display in the OpenGL workspace can be turned on or off. The existing setting possibilities for 'Ambient light' and 'Directional light' have not been changed and can thus be directly used for shadow display.
'Migration'
Since 'Views, Sections' is a new model area, no settings from existing versions can be migrated. To make the transition and implementation of existing projects as pleasant as possible, the following procedure has been built in for 'Display' and 'Dimensioning and Labeling':
Views and sections always have a name even in earlier file formats. Existing views and sections are automatically migrated by the system, with the name also adopted and serving as identifier.
If settings for 'Display' and 'Dimensioning and Labeling' of the new system are available and these bear the same name as the view/section that was migrated, these settings are automatically loaded.
If no names have been assigned or no settings with corresponding names are available, a default setting can be automatically loaded. For this, it must bear the name 'Views and Sections - Migration'.
If neither of the two above points applies, or if no setting for 'Display' and/or 'Dimensioning and Labeling' is available yet, a setting is automatically generated by the system.
The transition to the new 'Views, Sections' system offers many other advantages in addition to extensions for display with textures and shadows that greatly facilitate daily work:
Views, sections, section areas, and section courses can now be managed and edited in their own optimized model area.
Automatic dimensioning and labeling is now also available for views/sections in the building.
'Views, Sections' save all relevant information (Display settings, Dimensioning and Labeling settings, layer switching, etc.) individually like basic views.
When calling up a view/section, exactly the same situation is called up as was present when leaving the view/section.
For different requirements from planning to construction, views/sections can be prepared and saved with the building template.
Views/sections are finalized for plan filing, including all drawing elements and texts, in the building. A switch between building and plans is thus no longer necessary. The filing corresponds to the situation defined in the building.
Plan post-processing is reduced to an absolute minimum.
Doors and Windows in Floor Plan and Wall Construction
Story-spanning Windows, Doors, and Niches
In most cases, windows, doors, and niches are completely in one wall, i.e., also in one story. However, in some cases they run spanning stories from the lower wall to the overlying wall of the next story. If there is still a constructive story for cladding of ceiling edges or story joints (belly bands) in between, then the opening even spans 3 stories. Typical cases are:
Story-spanning windows in stairwells and story-spanning rooms.
Hidden niches for story-spanning installations and climate technology.
These windows and niches can now be entered directly in the lower wall with the corresponding height. Through their height, they are automatically considered in the overlying walls (stories):
Input, positioning, and changing of openings are basically done in the lowest wall.
The opening in the wall body is generated including wall stop. Layer contours are formed accordingly.
Window construction (frame, sash) and reveals are formed to full height. They basically belong to the lower wall.
HRB assignment can consider the part of the window opening lying in each wall. It interprets all information from the window or niche. Components from HRB assignment then belong to the assigned wall; e.g., lintels belong to the upper wall.
In floor plan display, openings are shown in every story they extend into.
Display of stop sides and opening direction occur in every story.
Interior and exterior window sills are only displayed in the lowest story.
Window numbers are displayed in every story so the window can be identified.
In quantity surveying, there are "true measurement surfaces" that correspond to exact geometric size and "measurement surfaces" from which only openings exceeding a certain size (e.g., according to VOB) are deducted. For this minimum deduction area, the entire window is considered as one opening:
If the entire window exceeds the minimum deduction area, it is deducted in each wall. Only the part that is also in this wall is deducted.
This affects exterior and interior wall surfaces as well as layer-by-layer measurement.
Wall Plan
Window labeling occurs only in the lowest story.
Dimensioning of opening widths occurs in every story.
Display of window components occurs completely in the lowest wall to which the window also belongs. In other walls, these are treated like "components from other walls" and only displayed up to a certain distance.
Floor Plan
Window labeling occurs only in the lowest story.
Further as described above for floor plan display.
Ceiling
'Ceiling Processing' - 'Separate'
In many situations, e.g., after IFC import, with complex building geometries, or in connection with elementizing a ceiling field, it is necessary to adjust existing ceilings.
To optimally support this work, a new function 'Separate' is now available in the 'Ceiling Field' model area.
With this function, ceiling fields can be divided and thus broken down into smaller fields. This function can be found in Menu '3 - Ceiling Processing' at position '7 - Separate'. One ceiling field is edited at a time. Three methods are available:
'Separate at point parallel to X-axis of ceiling field'
'Separate at point parallel to Y-axis of ceiling field'
'Separate with polygon'
In all three methods, the ceiling field to be divided is selected in the first step.
For the methods 'Separate at point parallel to X-/Y-axis of ceiling field', you then determine any point, which can also lie outside the ceiling field. The separation line runs through the selected point, along which the ceiling is divided.
If the dialog is exited via the 'Separate with polygon' button, a polygon can be specified for ceiling separation by selecting multiple points. The following applies:
If the first and/or last segment of a polygon lies within the ceiling field, the corresponding segment is automatically extended until it meets the ceiling field contour.
Polygon segments may not cross each other or meet at a point.
'Offset of separation line left/right'
In addition to pure separation of the ceiling field, an offset can also be set simultaneously for all three methods (only positive values). The newly created ceiling edges are immediately moved by this offset. Subsequent adjustment of ceiling edges to create "clearance" between ceiling fields for assembly is thus no longer necessary.
The sides 'left' and 'right' result for 'Separate at point parallel to X-/Y-axis of ceiling field' from the direction of the respective ceiling field axis. If a ceiling field is divided with the 'Separate with polygon' option, the separation line runs along the polygon. The polygon has a directional sense from which left and right result.
Components, Elements, Openings, Numbering
If components are already contained in a ceiling field, they are assigned to the ceiling field in which the larger portion of the component lies. If the portions are identical, the component is assigned to the ceiling field in which the origin of the component's body coordinate system lies.
Ceiling fields that already contain elementization cannot be separated.
If the separation line of a ceiling field runs through an existing opening, the opening is assigned to the ceiling field that contains the larger area portion of the opening. A required opening in the second ceiling field created by separation must be added by the user.
After separating a ceiling field, numbering continues from the highest already assigned number, with one of the ceiling fields retaining its original number. Ceiling field numbering can be individually adjusted after separation using the new 'Number' and 'Attributes' functions.
Both parts of the ceiling field belong to the story to which the original ceiling field belonged.
'Ceiling Processing' - 'Number'
With large building projects or complex building geometries - especially when ceilings are prefabricated - systematic numbering of individual ceilings plays an important role for production, logistics, and assembly.
To best support the user, a new function 'Number' is now available in the 'Ceiling Field' model area.
The function can be found in Menu '3 - Ceiling Processing' at position '3 - 04 Numbering'.
After calling up the 'Number' function, ceilings are graphically selected in the construction area in the order they should be renumbered. Numbering always starts with number "1" and proceeds sequentially. However, the ceiling number must be unique within a story, which is automatically ensured by the system. The currently selected ceiling receives a new number. If conflicts occur, existing ceiling numbers are automatically and incrementally increased by one until no more conflicts exist. The order of other ceiling fields relative to each other is maintained.
'Ceiling Field' - 'Attributes'
To enable even more specific numbering, the 'Attributes' function has been built into the ceiling field context menu. This now makes it possible to specifically assign a specific number to individual ceilings. Numbering can have arbitrary gaps. However, the ceiling number must be a unique integer value.
The procedure described under "'Ceiling Processing' - 'Number'" also applies here.
The mentioned extensions 'Number' and 'Attributes' thus enable even more targeted building organization:
By changing a ceiling number, an existing ceiling can be moved in its organizational order between other ceilings.
The order of other subsequent ceilings is maintained.
Gaps and gradations in numbering are also maintained.
"Keys" or "number ranges" can now be created for ceilings. All ceilings from 'Floor 1' could, for example, be provided with 100-series numbers, all ceilings from 'Floor 2' with 200-series numbers.
Dormers
For various components in the dormer front, the dovetail joint has been built in as an additional connection possibility. This was done at the following locations:
Connection window rail - foot purlins
Connection window rail - posts
Connection parapet rail - posts
Ridge and corner posts: connection top and bottom
Center posts: connection top and bottom
When entering a dormer, you first had the choice of a template with preview. This preview only showed the roof skin. If you had not selected a template, you got the dormer type selection for a new "empty" dormer. This sequence has now been changed:
The two dialog boxes were swapped so you first choose the dormer type.
After choosing the dormer type, the dialog box with template selection appears. Only templates that match the selected dormer type are now displayed, making selection clearer.
The preview is now shown including framework, provided the template contains framework, which is not necessarily the case.
The dialog box is dynamic so you can adjust the preview size according to your requirements and possibilities.
The dialog boxes (one for each dormer type) for dormer dimensioning have been revised and extended:
The dialog box is dynamic and can be arbitrarily adjusted in size.
The most obvious change is the preview. When the dialog box size is changed, the preview field size also changes. If these fields are empty, the program cannot dimension the dormer with existing input values. Then a red notice text also appears in the left half of the dialog box.
It can happen that the dormer does not fit on the selected main roof surface with the entered values. In this case, the preview fields remain empty, but a red notice message also appears. This indicates that the eave height may be too low (dormer lies under main roof) or the distance to reference height is too large.
An additional value was added to the displayed main roof surface values - the main roof eave height relative to reference height is specified. As soon as a value is entered in the reference height field, the two displayed values for main roof eave height differ.
A measurement function was built into the reference height and eave height fields. When calling this measurement function, the program first asks for two points while showing the building plan view. The program then creates a vertical section through the building along the lines (from the two points). Here you can pick the height by selecting a point. This height is then adopted into the field where you started the measurement function.
Framework (optional module)
'Framework' - 'Delete'
The 'Delete' function for frameworks has been extended. While previously only individual frameworks could be selected for deletion, multiselect is now available for selecting frameworks to be deleted. The familiar methods 'L - Line', 'K - Cross', 'N - Window', and 'A - Similar' can be used in model areas 'Floor Plan', 'Roof Structure', and 'DICAM'.
'Framework' - 'Framework Properties'
In the 'Framework' model area, the 'Framework Properties' function from the 'Framework Processing' menu has been extended.
At the top of the dialog is now an additional input field that displays the current framework number. In this input field, the framework number can now be manually adjusted or changed.
Any combination of numbers and texts can be used for the framework number, but it must be unique. This is automatically checked by the system. If a conflict is detected, exiting the dialog with 'Ok' is prevented. The uniqueness of the framework number must be ensured by the user.
Rooms, Floor Areas, Room Contents
The following lists some key points for application. A detailed description of the topics Rooms, Floor Areas, Room Contents can be found in the program installation directory in the documentation \documents\ger\Räume_*.*.
Color sets for room fills added: It is helpful to display rooms filled; for example, you can visually distinguish living and technical rooms by fill color. Light color sets are usually used for this so the fill is appropriately restrained when output on paper. However, when working in these positions in the program on a dark background, the light fills are very intrusive and text is barely visible. Special color sets for room fill have now been created. These produce light fill on paper and light background, but dark fill on dark background.
These color sets can be adopted in buildings and plans:
In the plan program, call up function 1-7-9 Color Set.
In the building, call up the layer dialog (04-7-1). There click on the browser button behind a color set.
The color set definition dialog opens:
With the "Load Standard" button, Dietrich's standard color sets are adopted. This affects color sets 1 to 99. The new color sets are added: 50 to 57. Settings of already existing Dietrich's standard color sets are also reset.
Color sets from 100 are your individual color sets. These are not changed in this process.
Free Construction
Processing - 'Copy Processing' (DICAM Carpenter)
In many building projects, identical processing must be created on multiple components or at different positions within a component. To avoid having to re-enter this processing, 'Adopt' in the 'Individual Beam' dialog (for copying within a component) or transfer (for copying from component to component) as processing 'Type 4' were previously used.
A new function is now available for direct copying of processing within a component and from component to component - 'Copy Processing'. The call is made in the 'DICAM' model area via '3-1-04 Copy Processing'.
After calling up the function, you first select the processing to be copied. Note that:
only processing 'Type 0' (representable in parametric form) and fasteners 'Type 0' can be selected.
only processing belonging to the same source component can be selected.
copying basically occurs from the reference side of the source component always to the same reference side of the target component.
Selection of processing to be copied occurs graphically in the construction area. Once the first processing is selected, a filter is indirectly set. This automatically restricts processing selection to the source component. This allows multiple processing to be conveniently selected via 'L - Line', 'K - Cross', or 'N - Window', ensuring that processing from other components is not accidentally selected.
After completing processing selection, two main copying methods are available:
'Select beam ends'
'Select base & target point'
'Direction and distance for copies'
'Distances in direction P1 -- P2 (in original component)'
'Divide in direction P1 -- P2 (in original component)'
'Select beam ends':
In this method, target components are selected closer to the beam end where the processing to be copied should be transferred. Multiple component selection is possible here. A single component can also be selected twice. Once for copying processing to beam start, once for copying processing to beam end.
When copying processing from reference side 'A' (beam start) to reference side 'B' (beam end), or in reverse direction, the selected processing is rotated 180° around the component's Z-direction. This corresponds to the main application case for which this copy function was developed - copying processing with "end reference", such as processing needed for steel components at beam ends.
'Select base & target point':
This copying method is divided into the three already familiar copying methods for components.
'Direction and distance for copies'
Copying processing with the 'Direction and distance' method behaves exactly analogously to copying components and the corresponding function ('Copy'). After selecting processing to be copied and the method (here: 'Direction and distance for copies'), the number of target processing to be generated can be specified. In the next step, target components that should receive the processing are selected. Target components must all be axially parallel to each other. This is also ensured by an indirectly set filter. Subsequently, processing is copied by selecting base and target points. If multiple target components were selected, the selected target point is projected into the corresponding reference sides of all target components.
If you deny the query for a base point in this method, you enter the dialog for object-related copying of processing. With this method, like relative copying of components, drawing elements, etc., a relative distance for copies can be entered. However, this distance always refers to the coordinate system of the reference side containing the processing for the 'Copy Processing' function.
'Distances in direction P1 - P2 (in original component)'
Copying processing with the 'Distances in direction P1 - P2' method always occurs in the reference side of the source component (= original component), so no target components need to be selected for this method. The copying itself occurs analogously to the already familiar copying methods for components, drawing elements, etc.
'Divide in direction P1 - P2 (in original component)'
Copying processing with the 'Distances in direction P1 - P2' method always occurs in the reference side of the source component (= original component), so no target components need to be selected for this method. The copying itself occurs analogously to the already familiar copying methods for components, drawing elements, etc.
As with the just-mentioned methods for objects, it is also possible when copying processing to choose between 'Center dimension' and 'Clear' for processing distribution.
In both cases, selecting point P1 and point P2 defines a direction for copies. If the selected points are not in the reference side coordinate system, they are projected perpendicularly into the corresponding reference side. The distances for individual copies themselves are then set in the respective dialogs.
All three methods offer the possibility to optionally activate or block adoption of longitudinal and/or transverse dimensions:
Checkbox 'Target point determines longitudinal dimension':
Longitudinal dimension is always measured in X-direction of the reference side. If this checkbox is set, the relative longitudinal dimension, i.e., the distance between base point and processing, is also executed identically in the target situation. This means the processing will have the same distance to the target point as it has to the selected base point. The actual longitudinal dimension of the new processing is automatically calculated appropriately.
If the checkbox is not set, the same longitudinal dimension currently possessed by the source processing is used for the new processing.
Checkbox 'Target point determines transverse dimension':
Transverse dimension is always measured in Y-direction of the reference side. If this checkbox is set, the relative transverse dimension, i.e., the distance between base point and processing, is also executed identically in the target situation. This means the processing will have the same distance to the target point as it has to the selected base point. The actual transverse dimension of the new processing is automatically calculated appropriately.
If the checkbox is not set, the same transverse dimension currently possessed by the source processing is used for the new processing.
For copying with methods 'Distances/Divide in direction P1 - P2 (in original component)', there is no selection of base point and target point. However, the described behavior for longitudinal and transverse dimensions applies here as well. If, for example, the checkbox for transverse dimension is not set, all new processing will get the same transverse dimension as the originally selected processing.
For copying with methods 'Distances/Divide in direction P1 - P2 (in original component)', if, for example, the checkbox 'Target point determines transverse dimension' is not set, points P1 and P2 are projected onto a virtual line. This runs through the selected processing, parallel to the X-axis in the processing reference side coordinate system. The 'division length' thus results from the distance of the two projected points P1' and P2'. For an unset checkbox 'Target point determines longitudinal dimension', the virtual line runs correspondingly along the Y-axis of the reference side coordinate system. The essential advantage of this method is that all required distances (start, end) and bundle dimensions (free, fixed) can thus always be specified in the flight of the processing to be copied. Complex value conversion is thus eliminated if no suitable points are available.
Application benefits:
Processing to be copied can be directly, graphically selected in the construction area.
Intuitive, direct, and graphic insertion of processing at target position by selecting component ends or insertion points.
"Processing rows" or "processing patterns" can be conveniently created using familiar and proven division functions.
Dynamic preview clearly represents the resulting target situation.
Searching for processing parameters to be adopted is eliminated with this method.
The new function 'Copy Processing' thus offers a very ergonomic method for adopting processing or creating processing rows and processing patterns, since copying is always easier than re-entering.
Component Processing in Wall Construction, Ceiling Construction, Roof Structure, Framework, and Free Construction
Processing - 'Tool Paths' (DICAM Carpenter)
In many situations, processing on components is needed that has a free form and is thus difficult to represent with regular processing functions. New processing is now available in Individual Beam for this.
Dietrich's tool paths are processing that enables direct description of machine processing. The tool path is defined on the respective beam side along lines or circular arcs. Tool diameter and processing depth are freely selectable.
Through direct processing description, no subsequent conversion or interpretation needs to take place when generating machine data. The user can exactly specify the tool path. This ensures that exactly what is defined arrives in common machine formats like Hundegger BVN, Cambium BVX, BTL, and BTLX.
In addition to direct input of required points in Individual Beam, processing can also be efficiently and intuitively created via point symbols and combination elements.
Tool paths are available in several model areas as processing under 3-1-1 or 6-1-1 in Individual Beam. They are defined via start and end points, for which two coordinates each must be specified. These coordinates are to be understood in the XoY plane of the respective reference side of the component. All sides A to F of components are available as reference sides. Tool width and depth specify processing geometry. For circular arcs, height must additionally be defined. A positive value controls the circular arc clockwise, a negative value counterclockwise.
Via manual input of tool paths, individual lines or circular arcs can be quickly entered on components.
Point Symbols:
For recurring processing of the same form, the user can write a corresponding point symbol. This allows desired processing to be quickly and easily applied to various components.
Combination Elements:
For user-friendly input of tool paths, corresponding combination elements are available to the user. With these, points can be directly selected and entire processing groups are created in Individual Beam, which are also processed as such on the machine. It makes sense to previously enter these points (or lines and arcs for their selection) via auxiliary geometry (in story, wall, work planes).
With function '7-8-1 Insert combination elements at points, components', combination elements for entering lines or lines and arcs can be called up. By selecting corresponding points, processing is automatically created in Individual Beam and grouped together.
With function 7-9-4 "Change Insertion", the used combination elements can also be changed subsequently. This allows previously determined parameters such as width and depth of tool paths to be conveniently and flexibly adjusted for the entire group.
Not only design elements can be easily and machine-compatible produced with tool paths. Constructive elements such as non-rectangular fitting recesses, complex processing, or free shaping for components are also possible with the new technology.
Examples include:
Special connection situations: hidden corner sheet at arbitrary angle
Flat components with curved outer contour: rafters in barrel roof dormer
Embedding freely formed steel components or fittings
Lettering:
Special point symbols and combination elements are available to the user for creating characters, numbers, and special characters. Via combination elements, the desired text can be entered in the dialog, size, spacing, and milling width and depth freely defined and inserted at a point. This ensures simple input since nothing needs to be drawn in 2D beforehand. Via the combination element change service, the entire lettering can be precisely adjusted regarding position and geometry.
This allows valuable details to be easily realized:
House number or company name in entrance area
Vehicle license plate in carport
Year in hall structure, etc.
X-fix**® Connection System:**
To properly bring the processing required for the X-fix® connection system to machines, tool paths are the ideal tool. You can exactly determine the desired milling path via parameters and thus flexibly respond to desired or forced dimensional changes.
With combination element technology, connectors can be user-friendly entered in roof, wall, and ceiling. Via selection of two points at component joints, connectors are automatically distributed according to the settings made, and components receive the required processing. If corrections are necessary, combination elements can be correspondingly changed or recalculated.
According to the relevant model area, the appropriate combination elements can be found under:
7-8-6 "Insert combination elements in roof surface" 🡪 "XFIX_C_Roof" or
7-8-2 "Insert combination elements on front side" 🡪 "XFIX_C_Wall"
7-8-3 "Insert combination elements on back side" 🡪 "XFIX_C_Wall" or
7-8-2 "Insert combination elements in base" 🡪 "XFIX_C_Ceiling"
X-fix-C connectors are selectable in available depths. Via distance at start and end, as well as maximum field distance, connector distribution at component edges is calculated.
Selection of affected components as well as correct connector orientation are automatically captured and determined by the combination element.
In the "Processing" variable group, relevant tool path dimensions can be individually set. This allows processing to be adapted both to actual dimensions of the respective connector batch and to installation tolerances.
Assembly Order, Loading Planning
Assembly Order (optional module)
The position in assembly order is available via variables for individual components, component groups, and elements. Variables can be output in labels and texts on screen or in plan. For example, a purlin installed in the third main section, sixth section at twelfth position gets number 3.6.12. This number can be displayed, for example, in a label for 3D view and thus document assembly order in the plan as well.
Point Cloud in System (optional module)
Point Cloud: Orthophotos in Walls
With loaded point cloud, orthophotos can now also be generated for walls. For this, function 1-2-04 Point Cloud Settings is called up in wall construction:
Pixel size and color for point display in orthophoto are set here for all walls. These values thus apply to all walls.
Changing one of these values causes recalculation of orthophotos for all walls.
Orthophoto is generated when checkbox is set.
The point cloud area to be displayed in orthophoto is set for each individual wall.
Area specifications refer to wall body. When entering 0.0, point cloud within wall body is used.
Changing one of these values causes recalculation of orthophoto only for current wall.
Wall orthophotos are displayed in the wall itself, but also in DICAM in 3D construction. They are used for various purposes:
Determining dimensions and positioning windows and doors.
Considering building services components: ventilation pipes, water connections, etc.
Reconstruction of individual construction components, e.g., rebuilding a half-timbered wall.
Orthophoto recalculation has been optimized. Only orthophotos affected by a change are recalculated:
An orthophoto setting was changed: If color for wall orthophotos is changed, story orthophotos do not need to be recalculated.
After changing parameters in "Connect point cloud", orthophotos that lie completely outside the point cloud clip box are neither recalculated nor deleted.
Plans, Plan Program
General Plan Program
Variables can now be used for both plan numbers and plan info. The following variable groups are available:
User variables
Project variables
User variables from current position
System variables
Wall
Plan information
Building structure
Ceiling
Roof surface
Package, element, component group
Component dimensions
Component information
Loading planning
To insert a variable, you can conveniently select it. Click on the icon at the right end of the field. This opens another dialog box with a long input field. Here you can enter any text or insert a variable at any position. A variable is always inserted at the blinking cursor position and can thus be arbitrarily combined with free text.
To select a variable, click on the large button under the input field. This opens another dialog box. In the tree, select the desired variable. Under the help image, help text appears for each variable that facilitates selection of the correct variable.
Under the tree with variables are four fields with which you can format the variable:
Unit: For variables that return a numerical value (e.g., component width), you can set the desired unit here.
Decimal places: For variables that return a numerical value (e.g., component width), you can set the desired number of decimal places here.
Number: For all variables, you can specify the number of characters with which the variable result should be given. If the variable returns fewer characters than set here, the program fills with characters from the next field.
Fill character: If you set a number of characters for the variable, you should also enter a fill character. If the variable then returns fewer characters than set, the program fills with the fill characters set here. Example: #Wnr[,,0,4]# This gives the wall number with 4 characters and filled with zeros if necessary. If the current wall has number 102, you get as result: 0102
Plans, Plan Filing - 'Overwrite Plans'
Until version 22, overwriting plans was only indirectly possible. In the course of switching from three-digit to arbitrarily long filenames, building in variables for filenames, and building in counters for plans, the existing method has now been significantly extended. With version 22.02, clear options are now available:
'Yes, overwrite'
'No, do not overwrite'
'Overwrite all plans'
'Do not overwrite any plans'
It can be specifically specified for each plan whether it should be overwritten or not. These options are also independent of whether a counter is used or not. Since it often happens that multiple plans are generated in one filing process (e.g., wall plans or individual beam drawings), the options 'Overwrite all plans' and 'Do not overwrite any plans' are also available.
If the option 'No, do not overwrite' or 'Do not overwrite any plans' is selected, new plans are generated. The following methods are basically applied:
Filename ends with alphabetic character
Existing plan files ending with an alphabetic character are extended.
If a floor plan with name "Floor plan_Ground floor" already exists, the new plan is filed with filename "Floor plan_Ground floor1".
Filing with fixed filename - without counter - filename ends with numeric character
If an existing plan ends with a numeric character, the filename is also extended in this constellation.
If, for example, a wall plan with name "Wall_100" already exists, the filename "Wall_1001" is formed when filing the new plan.
If there are already other plans in the filing, the next highest free number is searched and used.
Filing filename incl. variable - without counter
Variables can also be used when generating filenames, e.g., in the form "Wall_#Wnr#".
A wall plan with filename "Wall_100" is then extended to "Wall_1001".
If there are already other plans in the filing, the next highest free number is searched and used.
Filing filename incl. variable - with counter - filename ends with character string corresponding to 'Counter'
Variables can also be used when generating filenames, e.g., in the form "Wall_#Wnr#".
If an existing plan ends with a numeric character string and this character string corresponds to the counter set in the filing setting, it is incremented.
If, for example, a wall plan with name "Wall_100_01" already exists, the new filename "Wall_100_02" is formed when filing if the counter in the filing setting is set to 'two-digit'.
If there are already other plans in the filing, the next highest free number is searched and used.
To enable overwriting plans - even with counter set - automatic counting had to be set to always start at "1". Related to the filing method known and used until today, consisting of fixed filename and counter, this leads to existing plans being queried regarding overwriting in multiple filing steps. Since overwriting is not desired here, you confirm in the query dialog with "Do not overwrite any plans". The filename is then counted up as usual.
Example existing method - Wall numbering via counter
Only "Wall_" is used for the filename.
Numbering is generated via a set counter.
If two filing processes are now performed, the second process already asks whether plans should be overwritten.
If you deny at this point, it is simply incremented according to the existing method.
With the inclusion of variables for filenames, it is recommended in the future to generate this numbering with the help of a system-offered variable. This allows, e.g., numbered wall plans to always be clearly assigned based on the wall number used.
Example filing method with variables in filenames - Wall numbering via variable
"Wall_" is again entered for the fixed part of the filename.
Numbering is generated via system variable #Wnr#.
Filing can now be divided into arbitrarily many processes; no query regarding overwriting will take place since numbering occurs automatically via the current wall number.
Texts in Plan
RTF in Plan: RTF texts in plans can now be post-processed:
This applies to manually imported RTF texts (function 1-04-5) and to material lists in RTF format that are automatically generated and inserted when filing plans.
In the text element context menu, the editor registered for RTF files in Windows is called up via the 'Change' function:
Usually Microsoft Word is started for this.
The RTF is stored in a temporary file that is loaded in the editor. These files are temporary and have unique filenames so multiple RTFs can be edited simultaneously.
Work in the plan is stopped and can only continue after completing the function.
A corresponding dialog box is displayed for this, which can be closed with Ok or Cancel.
To close the dialog, the temporary file may no longer be open in the editor.
With Ok, file changes are adopted; with Cancel, changes are discarded.
The temporary file is automatically deleted when ending the function.
Contents and formatting can be adjusted in the editor. These are usually adopted into the display. Since display does not occur via the original program, differences can occur.
Display is automatically reduced to the printed area. No unnecessary paper margins are displayed.
This is particularly helpful with tables that often do not occupy the entire page width.
Multi-page RTFs are displayed in adjacent columns:
Each individual page is reduced to its printed area. The reduced pages are then placed side by side from left to right.
Page breaks occur automatically due to page size. The maximum page height can thus be controlled via page size. Set the template accordingly in the template editor.
In post-processing, page breaks can additionally be precisely controlled. By inserting blank lines or directly with Ctrl+Return (Word), page breaks can be moved to the desired position.
Table peculiarities (Word): With automatic page breaks, table headers can be automatically displayed again on the following page; in the plan they are then displayed above each column. However, this Word-specific function can lead to formatting differences (e.g., missing line under repeated table header). If page breaks are then manually triggered, table headers are no longer automatically displayed on the following page. You can then manually insert table headers again on each page; this is the safest method for exact representation in the plan.
Notes on opening existing plans from previous versions
Due to extended display possibilities, lines not previously displayed can appear, particularly in tables.
Multi-page texts were displayed below each other (which often led to problems due to lack of space). Individual pages are now displayed side by side.
After original RTF import, page margins were also displayed; now display is reduced to printable content. In older displays, the margin is now omitted and contents are displayed somewhat larger.
Floor Plan
Floor Plan - 'Display Stairs'
When generating a floor plan for a specific story, it can be set whether stairs from an underlying story should also be displayed or not.
In certain cases, however, ceilings are entered as separate stories. This is then located between the current story and the story below, whose stairs should actually be displayed. With this input method, the story with stairs to be displayed was no longer found. The search for stories with stairs has therefore been adjusted. Starting from the current story, the search now begins with an offset of 0.6 [m] to the current story.
Floor Plan - 'Layer for Dimensioning Boundaries'
In floor plans and also in basic views, a minimum distance to the building can be set for automatically generated dimension chains. For this, you draw a line on each side of the building where the dimension chain should be moved to the position where the dimension chain should begin. In daily practice, these lines are often drawn as a closed line sequence using a polyline around the entire building. The 'Layer for Dimensioning Boundaries' function has therefore been extended and now considers not only lines but also polylines as boundaries.
Export - Plan Window - DXF
Previously, the entire plan could already be exported as a DXF file. With version 23, individual plan windows can now also be exported as DXF files.
In the previous DXF export, only layers that were currently turned on were exported. Now it is possible to choose whether all layers or only currently turned on layers should be exported.
In the DXF format, there is a variable that defines the length unit. This variable previously always had the unit 'Meter' fixed. Now it is possible to choose the unit (Meter, Centimeter, ...) for this variable. Some CAD programs use this value as basis for information about which unit the drawing was created with.
When exporting an entire plan, the drawing size corresponds to the paper format size of the plan. When exporting a plan window, however, elements are exported in their original size. The size depends on the unit selected for export. A line that is 10 meters long in a plan is 10 units long in the DXF file when 'Meter' is selected as export unit. If 'Millimeter' is selected as export unit, the line is 10,000 units long.
Basic View Plan
Basic View Plan - 'Filing Name' / %Plan Info%
Previously, only the story, story number, and basic view number from the building were stored for filing basic views.
To quickly orient yourself with a large number of filings and have direct recognition, the filing string has been changed. It now also contains the basic view name as assigned in the building. To increase readability, the individual partial strings have additionally been separated by " - ".
The filing name thus consists of the following elements:
'Story' 'Story Number' - GA 'Basic View Number' - 'Basic View Name'
Display of basic view name has also been adopted for %Plan Info%. This now consists of:
GA 'Basic View Number' - 'Basic View Name'
Current Display Filing
In 1-01-6 Current Display Filing, images are now also filed.
This affects currently visible images from all areas: stories, work planes
Images are spatially distorted accordingly as on screen.
This allows point clouds to be displayed in plans via orthophotos. Orthophotos can be used to control geometries or to represent captured existing conditions.
General Interfaces
Export - Building - 3D Web Viewer (optional module)
For the "Hide Components", "Hide Groups", and "Measure" functions, it is important to know that you are in these functions: the next click triggers something specific, e.g., hides an entire component group. To make it always clearly recognizable that you are in such a function, the icon is now displayed at the mouse cursor; unwanted triggering is thus prevented.
These functions can be ended via menu or simply with ESC; this is then also clearly visible from the changed mouse cursor.
A clip box can now be used in the 3D Web Viewer.
After calling up via menu function, 6 cones appear; these can be grasped and moved with the mouse to move the cutting plane.
Cones are shown and hidden via checkbox in the appeared control palette. They can also be displayed transparently.
Even when hidden, cones are still selectable; cutting planes can still be moved even then. This is important to still recognize enough even with small details.
Cutting surfaces of bodies with clip box planes are highlighted by corresponding lines.
In the control palette on the right is a color field; here the color for cutting lines can be set.
With the slider in the control palette, the clip box can be rotated in plan.
This is very helpful for examining slanted walls in detail, for example.
The angle is set via slider. If it is known or a value with decimal places must be entered, this is possible via input right of the slider.
The 3D Web Viewer provides a good and quick overview of the entire building and structures. With the clip box, it also supports checking details. Detail selection occurs purely via geometric position; this is often easier than hiding organizational groups or components. And a component can thus also be partially hidden; in the cutting plane, the geometric situation is optimally visible exactly at this location.
Parallel projection: Perspective is the standard representation in the 3D Web Viewer. It looks natural and conveys a suitable visual impression in many situations. However, for technical purposes, the now available parallel projection is often necessary:
You can simply check whether components "align", i.e., lie exactly behind each other or above each other.
In displaying floor plan views or building sections, parallel projection is preferred since you can clearly recognize room boundaries, for example.
3D Web Viewer: commented scenes
The 3D Web Viewer provides the graphic basis for communication with various project participants. To discuss a concrete point, you turn off disturbing parts, reduce representation with the clip box, and rotate the viewing direction so you get optimal representation. The project partner should receive the same representation, especially when not dealing with it simultaneously. For this, you can now save a scene file and send it to the project partner. By simply loading the scene, they receive exactly the same screen display:
only desired components are visible
perspective or parallel projection are set
viewing direction and zoom level are set
clip box is executed including cone display option and cutting line color
To describe the scene, you can send a comment that is displayed after loading the scene. Your project partner can in turn adjust the scene, add comments, save the scene, and send it back to you. Each participant can view and check the scene at leisure. This allows things to be clarified even when there is no time for a joint conversation.
Comments can be collapsed with the arrow to get a larger display area.
With the round X button, they are completely hidden.
At the bottom of comments, the next comment can always be entered.
Clicking the save symbol in the new comment saves the entire scene again:
The scene file can be overwritten or a new one created. With a new file, previous versions are also retained.
The current screen display is then also saved in the scene. This can also be adjusted to the new comment.
Each scene is recorded in a file:
File extension is DWCF.
Files are relatively small and can be exchanged via all possible ways: email, Skype or Teams chat, Dropbox, etc. From project management, they can be sent directly as email attachment.
For access authorization reasons, it is not possible to exchange scene files via Dietrich's cloud service; however, the associated 3D Web Viewer file can be made available via Dietrich's cloud service as usual.
To load the scene file, it is selected in the 3D Web Viewer in the "Load Scene" dialog or simply dragged and dropped into the dialog field.
Since you can define arbitrarily many scenes, multiple aspects can be processed in parallel and independently.
Scenes already loaded in the session are listed in the dialog and can be selected with one click. And immediately the relevant display with comments is on screen again.
The 3D Web Viewer makes communication simple and direct.
Construction Data Program
Master Database Synchronization
Data Exchange
With data exchange in the construction data program, the currently used database can be updated or specific articles or settings can be exchanged between two databases. The operation and technology of data exchange has been revised and updated.
Data Exchange Dialog
The dialog is called up in the construction data program with 4 Master Data -- 0 Data Exchange.
Data Exchange Database
In the upper area, the path for external database is selected. There is the possibility to generate an empty master database.
Read data from external database
With options Fitting Connection, All Static Values, and Fitting Library, general updating of these areas occurs. Please note that existing data is deleted before copying.
Data Synchronization -- Components
Individual Components, Brick Models, and Fitting Definitions can be read from external database or written to external database.
Data Synchronization -- Addresses / Statics
Individual addresses and static values can also be exchanged in the same way.
Data Exchange Settings
In the upper area, the path for external setting files is selected. The standard directory is located in the installation directory in subdirectory DHPDOT\Language.
Settings for lists, optimization blocks, and Excel files can be synchronized.
Data Exchange Dialog -- Components / Addresses / Statics / Settings
The following description is based on data synchronization for Components. This has the most comprehensive options. Data synchronization of Addresses / Statics / Settings occurs similarly.
Data Synchronization - Components
Calling up the first data synchronization requires time for reading. All further synchronizations occur with short loading time.
Database comparison: with buttons at bottom right (Only Individual / Only Existing / Only Different), identification numbers for desired data exchange can be displayed.
Differences can be output to Excel file with buttons below if needed.
Difference display: by right-clicking on an identification number or pressing the Show Differences button, a dialog opens showing differences between identification numbers in bold text. Which properties are compared is controlled with checkmarks in the upper area of the dialog.
Search and filter function: the binocular buttons next to database path specification call up a search. This has been extended to include filtering by Component Type.
Synchronization of individual or multiple identification numbers occurs after selecting checkmarks with the central left arrow. Whether the identification number remains in the original group after synchronization or is copied to the currently selected left group is controlled with the dropdown below Keep Group / Read into Selected Group.
Last updated
Was this helpful?