Version 24

Project Management, Overall System

Installation

Master database, Component catalog:

With V24, we set as standard that every installation of the program uses its own master database. The new installation therefore does not access the existing database and existing installations continue to work undisturbed with their previous database.

• The master database of V24 is then normally located in \DIETRICHS24\DBA\GER.

• Even with parallel installation, the master database supplied by Dietrich's is used. If data from existing master data is to be adopted, this can be done later via data exchange.

• The master database supplied by Dietrich's is always additionally located in the subdirectory of the version, e.g. \DIETRICHS24\DBA\GER\24_01. This is always available as the original version for data exchange.

Further information can be found in the installation guide.

General

To meet different needs and tastes, we offer a collection of color schemes for the user interface. In project management, these are set under "5-04 User Interface, Icon Bar, Font Size" separately for each program. We have revised and expanded these color schemes: Light Grey, Modern Planner and for the experimentally minded also Modern Pink, Emerald and Light Forest. They now have a more harmonious appearance which not only looks better optically, but is also more ergonomic because it is less tiring for the eyes. Try out which setting you can work best with.

Project, Project Management

The start screen offers the most recently opened positions. There you can open them directly without first going through directories and projects in project management. To enable this at any time, the start dialog can now be called up via function 1-01; so it's best to simply enter the keyboard shortcut 1-01.

It has proven successful in many situations to save or send settings used with projects. Now the settings for machine deposits for processing machines and wall stations are also displayed in the projects in the "Settings" category and can be managed.

Manage Settings, Work Environments, Central Data

Work Environment - Data Exchange: The data exchange with work environments (Building 1-3-5) is an important function for managing settings, especially after an installation and for synchronization within a team. The following optimizations have been achieved in this function:

No copying of superfluous files:

• In the directory selected in the right part of the dialog, there may be files that do not exist on the left side (current vor-directory, %DHPVOR%). Previously, all these files were copied to the vor-directory and thus also e.g. superfluous plan templates but also general files that have nothing to do with our system. Now only missing dsi files are automatically copied.

No abort with defective file

• If a defective file is opened when opening the current vor-directory (%DHPVOR%) or the directory on the right side, the function was previously aborted. A tedious search began.

  • Now a dialog appears with the name of the defective file.

  • The name is automatically copied to the clipboard, so it can be inserted into a document with Ctrl+V and collected.

  • With Ok, the function skips the defective file and continues.

  • Multiple defective files can also occur. The message appears for each one. Then each file name should be collected from the clipboard via Ctrl-V in a document.

• Finally, the defective files can be removed with appropriate tools (Explorer, TotalCommander, .. ).

Speed when opening the data exchange dialog

• There are very many files in the vor-directory. Previously, opening the dialog usually took several minutes. Through appropriate optimization of internal processes, this time could now be significantly reduced. In a test situation from 6 min to 18 sec.

Synchronous opening of trees

• If the mouse selection is set to an entry in one tree (e.g. right, a work environment), the same entry is selected as far as possible in the other tree (in the example left, the current settings). If this does not yet exist there, the branch of the tree is opened as far as possible.

• So you can immediately see whether the entry already exists and which other entries are in this area. You can also conveniently compare the settings step by step.

Options for overwriting and adopting: Many or all settings are marked in a tree (e.g. right, a work environment) and the arrow button is pressed to transfer them. If the function encountered already existing settings, the options "Yes", "Yes, all" and "No" were previously offered. The options have now been expanded:

• At the top of the dialog, the category (main branch), file and group are also displayed in addition to the name of the setting. This makes it much clearer to recognize which setting it is.

• Yes: The displayed setting is overwritten and the function continues to transfer. The dialog appears again at the next already existing setting.

• Yes, all: The displayed setting is overwritten and the function continues to transfer. All other already existing settings are also overwritten without the dialog appearing again.

• Rename: It is offered to transfer the setting with a different name. The existing setting is thus preserved and the transferred one is saved with a new name. Then the function continues to transfer and the dialog appears again at the next already existing setting.

• No: The displayed setting is not overwritten, so this setting is not transferred. Then the function continues to transfer and the dialog appears again at the next already existing setting. This allows you to conveniently decide step by step which of the current settings should be overwritten.

• None: The displayed setting is not overwritten, so this setting is not transferred. Also for all other already existing settings, no overwriting occurs, so they are also not transferred, and the dialog no longer appears. This allows you to conveniently adopt all new settings in one step that do not yet exist in the current settings.

For the adoption of group membership and favorite status, the left side previously had priority. The setting there was thus preserved or adopted. Now by setting the checkbox above the tree, the priority can also be placed on the right side.

Display, General Inputs

Interface, Screen Speed: Direct2D is automatically set.

We support various graphics systems: GDI is our current standard because it runs on all devices and is independent of the graphics card. We optionally use Direct2D for the wireframe model and plan elements. Because it uses the graphics card, it is significantly faster than GDI. Direct2D is now supported by all graphics cards. Therefore, we automatically set Direct2D as the default setting. This uses the more powerful system without further action. If you set GDI again in "1-7-2 Screen Elements", this setting is then retained; you must change back to Direct2D at this point.

The display of the wireframe model with Direct2D is significantly faster than with GDI. In Direct2D, edge smoothing (antialiasing) was previously automatically turned on. Diagonal lines appear much smoother, they have no steps due to pixel display. However, the lines are also somewhat thicker. Now in 1-7-2 Screen Elements, edge smoothing for Direct2D can also be turned off. Choose the setting that is best for your purposes.

With the search function in palette dialogs, you can search for parameters and quickly jump to them. This is very helpful in extensive dialogs, especially with the new input dialogs for window and door constructions. This search function has now been designed so that the entered text is always found, regardless of whether it is at the beginning, end or in the middle of the text; no wildcards (?, *) need to be used. In addition, the search does not distinguish between upper and lower case. Example: the search term "texture" would also find the following entries: "Texture for.." / "the texture set for .." / "desired texture".

Selection - Polygon (Crossing) / Polygon (Window)

Various modes ('L=Line', 'K=Crossing', 'N=Window', 'V=Previous' and 'A=Similar') are currently available for selecting objects in the different programs ('Building','PlanCad' etc.). The existing modes have been expanded by two additional procedures:

• 'P = Polygon (Crossing)' Objects are included in the current selection as soon as they are crossed by the polygon or lie completely within the polygon.

• 'Q = Polygon (Window)' Objects are only included in the current selection if they lie completely within the polygon.

The polygon can be freely defined by any choice of points. Object snap and coordinate correction are not available as with the known modes. After choosing the last point, the polygon can be automatically closed with 'MouseRight'. A corresponding preview of the last two segments is continuously displayed by the program.

The keyboard shortcuts 'P' and 'Q' are stored as standard for the two selection procedures. However, an individual keyboard shortcut can be set for each option under '1-7-08 Keyboard Shortcuts' in the 'Keyboard Shortcuts for Object Selection' area.

Context menus are a very intuitive tool for editing: You select the desired object directly and get the possible functions offered in the context menu. And also visually compact at the place you are currently looking at. The context menu for the object that is currently highlighted in the cursor area is called up. If there are several objects there, you can move the cursor until the desired object is highlighted. In many situations, however, this is not so easy, because e.g. windows, walls, lines and hatch edges lie on top of each other. With V24, it is possible to scroll through the possible objects with the tab key: as long as the mouse is not moved, the next possible object is offered after pressing the tab key and the associated context menu is called up with the right mouse button. If the mouse is moved, the process starts again.

The docked dialogs for building navigation, display switching etc. offer immediate overview and direct access. In some situations, however, it is more important to have the screen area for graphical work as large as possible. Here the current key combinations "Ctrl + left arrow" and "Ctrl + right arrow" are ideal:

• "Ctrl + left arrow" collapses the dialogs on the left side, "Ctrl + right arrow" collapses the dialogs on the right side alternately in or out.

• When collapsing, all currently expanded dialogs on this side are collapsed. The arrangement is retained. If you then expand again with the key combination, this division is restored. So you have your preferred arrangement of e.g. display switching + volume info directly available again.

• After opening the software, the dialogs must be expanded so that the expanded arrangement can be recognized.

• Since individual dialogs do not have to be collapsed and expanded and the division is preserved, you can optimally switch between preferred dialogs and maximum work area.

• The arrangement and state of the dialogs are kept separately for each model area.

Central Project, Central Position (optional modules)

Many projects are processed by a team. The roles and divisions typically result:

• from different planning phases: input planning, workshop planning, construction, ...

• Construction focuses: walls, ceilings, roofs

• projects so large that each area must be processed by several team members

For smooth project processing, the team needs

• the possibility of simultaneous processing of project or building

• organization of assignment to team members and access to project areas

• overview of actuality of used data and comfortable data synchronization

The new optional modules Central Project and Central Positions provide the infrastructure for teamwork according to these requirements.

• Any number of team members can simultaneously access the central project. If they work simultaneously on a building, this is realized via the central position.

• Access to positions, files or parts of the building is secured via holder status. The authorization is transparently recognizable for every participant.

• Undisturbed work is possible in the work projects, regardless of how many other team members are currently active. And offline mode allows continued work even when no network is available.

• Clear symbols and detailed information always convey the actuality of the data.

• Sophisticated synchronization functions allow comfortable work even in extensive projects.

Central Project and Central Position support the team as optimal infrastructure for division of labor and for handling large projects. Central Project and Central Position have already been introduced in pilot projects in practice. The introduction is accompanied by appropriate consulting, workshops and training.

Variables, Default Values, Formula System

The following lists some key points for the application. A detailed description of the variable system can be found in the program installation directory in the documentation \documents\ger\Variables_*.*.

Variables: System Variables

System Variables - 'Floor Plan View' / 'Elevation, Section Plan'

For the filing of floor plan views and elevation, section plans, the following system variables have been added:

• 'GASNr' - Number of the floor plan view, elevation/section

• 'GASNa' - Name of the floor plan view, elevation/section

• 'GASAnz' - Display abbreviation elevation/section in floor plan

• 'GASMas' - Scale of the floor plan view, elevation/section

The system variables are available for both the plan name and the plan info. Via the 'Edit Settings' button, these system variables can be accessed using 'Insert Variable at Cursor Position' (Variable group: 'Floor Plan Views, Elevations/Sections').

System Variables - Plans General

For the filing of plans, the system variables of the following variable groups have been added:

• 'Project Information'

• 'Position Information'

• 'Client'

• 'Architect'

The system variables of the listed variable groups are available for both the plan name and the plan info. Via the 'Edit Settings' button, the individual system variables of the variable groups can be accessed using 'Insert Variable at Cursor Position'.

Drawing Elements

Drawing Elements, Inputs

Drawing Elements - 'Stretch'

For the 'Stretch' function, only the option 'K = Crossing' was previously available for selecting elements. With the expansion of the selection procedures (see chapter '1.7 Display, General Inputs -- Selection 'Polygon (Crossing)' / 'Polygon (Window)'), the option 'Polygon (Crossing)' can now also be offered additionally for the 'Stretch' function.

Text, Dimensioning

Automatic Dimensioning - 'Floor Plan', 'Floor Plan Views' and 'Elevations, Sections'

In the model areas 'Floor Plan', 'Floor Plan Views' and 'Elevations, Sections', various automatic dimensioning and labeling can be generated using the function '1-7-3 Dimensioning and Labeling'. The display of this dimensioning and labeling is controlled by the checkbox 'show automatic dimensioning, labeling' and the visibility of the corresponding layer. If a layer was manually turned off, it also had to be manually turned on again. The existing procedure has been revised in this regard. If an element of automatic dimensioning and labeling is turned on whose layer is set to not visible, the layer is now automatically turned on again after recalculation. For elements controlled via dropdown lists, an intermediate step via the option 'None' must occur. If you select an option other than 'None' again after recalculation, the corresponding layer is also automatically turned on.

Automatic Dimensioning - 'Dimension - Insert', 'Dimension Text - Edit', 'Modify'

With version 24, dimensions can now be added ('Dimension - Insert') and dimension texts can be edited ('Dimension Text - Edit') in automatically generated dimension chains in all programs and program parts. Furthermore, the properties and display of automatically generated dimension chains can now also be individually adjusted or edited via the 'Modify' function. All changes are retained after recalculation (e.g. of a floor plan view or an elevation, section).

Dimension Style - 'Design'

Whether in Germany, Austria or Switzerland, each country makes its own specifications for dimensioning in construction. To meet the different specifications, the setting options for dimension styles have been greatly expanded for version 24. A separate group 'Design' has been added to the dialog 'Setting of Dimension Styles'. There you can set:

• various lengths and distances of dimension lines

• arrow length, arrow height and point diameter

• factor for line weight of the diagonal stroke

• various distances of the dimension text

In the 'Angle' group, the following has been added:

• radius of the arc

• length of the auxiliary line

• distance of the dimension text

All specifications for dimensions are measured 'on paper'. Country-specific and standard-compliant display of dimensioning is now possible at any time and easily.

Elevation Marks

Dimension Style - 'Height of Elevation Marks'

In addition to the settings mentioned under 'Dimension Style - 'Design'', the height of the triangle for elevation marks can now also be set. In the dialog 'Setting of Dimension Styles', you will find the field for the corresponding entry in the 'Elevation Marks' group.

Hatching

Hatching - 'Hatch Input', 'Modify' and 'Modify - Contour'

The dialog for entering hatching has been revised and redesigned. Central elements of the newly designed dialog are the five buttons 'Ok', 'Internal Point (Ignore Islands)', 'Internal Point (Recognize Islands)', 'Contour' and 'Cancel'. The buttons 'Internal Point (Ignore Islands)' and 'Internal Point (Recognize Islands)' replace the two options that resulted from the button 'Internal Point' and the checkbox 'Automatically recognize islands at internal point:'. The functionality of hatch input itself remained unchanged.

Via the function '02-02 Modify', previously only the settings of a hatch could be changed. Adjusting an existing contour was not possible. This has now been changed for version 24. If you call up the function '02-02 Modify', you can now also redetermine the contour of an existing hatch using 'Internal Point (Ignore Islands)', 'Internal Point (Recognize Islands)' and 'Contour' or have it automatically redetermined. A hatch can thus be quickly adapted to changed conditions. The basic procedures are analogous to entering hatches. If the dialog is exited with 'Ok', only the changes made to the hatch setting are adopted and no redetermination of the hatch polygon takes place.

Also new with version 24 is the possibility to change or replace individual segments or individual points of a hatch polygon. The functions 'Move Line', 'Replace Line', 'Move Point' and 'Delete Point' can be called up via the menu under '02-03 Modify Contour' or the context menu of a hatch. The procedures correspond in their principles and application to other already known procedures for changing polygons (cf. polylines or modify reference polygon ceiling). The new functions can be applied to elements of the hatch polygon and also to elements of island polygons. Circles, circle segments, ellipses and ellipse segments as well as individual start and end points of segments of these objects cannot be changed or adjusted.

Partial Drawings

'Library - Partial Drawings'

The library of partial drawings has been revised and expanded with the following elements:

• various parasols (directory: 'Outdoor\Parasols')

• various grills and fire bowls (directory: 'Outdoor\Grills')

• garden lounger (directory: 'Outdoor\Sun lounger')

• various flower tubs (directory: 'Outdoor\Plants')

• various fitness equipment (directory: 'Fitness and Leisure\Fitness Equipment')

• musical instruments like piano, grand piano and drums (directory: 'Fitness and Leisure\Music')

• objects for leisure activities like billiard table, table tennis table, basketball hoop etc. (directory: 'Fitness and Leisure\Leisure')

• bolt anchors in various sizes (directory: 'Fasteners\Bolt Anchors')

• sealing screws in various sizes (directory: 'Fasteners\Sealing Screws')

• screw anchors (directory: 'Fasteners\Screw Anchors')

View Ports

'Library - View Ports'

In the library for view ports (directory: 'PLANBIB\Legends\), plan headers for general use have been expanded. Three different sizes are available, where the designation "large" corresponds approximately to A4 format, the designation "medium" approximately to A5 format and the designation "small" approximately to A6 format. For each size there are three variants: with surrounding frame, with frame left and top (for positioning in the right, lower corner of a plan with plan frame) and completely without frame. The plan headers are fully customizable. For example, the address and logo of Dietrich's Technology GmbH can be exchanged for your own address and logo.

Building

General

General Operations, Boundary Situations: When objects have a very small angle to the global X or Y orientation, various operations fail, e.g. mortises were not visualized. For many situations, these orientations could now be resolved.

Display Graphics System: With the possibility to also work in the OpenGL workspace in wireframe mode, it is not readily apparent which graphics system you are working in. For this purpose, the graphics system is now displayed at the bottom in the status bar. Possible displays are GDI / Direct 2D / OpenGL.

The OpenGL workspace has existed for a long time, but it always had to be consciously turned on after starting the program. Since it is now regularly used by almost all users, it can now also be permanently set and then no longer needs to be started manually at program start. Since the OpenGL workspace is not yet available in all model areas, there are combined settings.

In function 1-7-2 Screen Elements there is already the Graphics System option with which you can switch between GDI and Direct2D. Two options have been added here:

• OpenGL + Direct2D: This automatically starts OpenGL at program start for the model areas where OpenGL exists. Direct2D is used in the other model areas.

• OpenGL + GDI: This automatically starts OpenGL at program start for the model areas where OpenGL exists. GDI is used in the other model areas.

Graphics display via OpenGL uses graphics cards most intensively and is thus the fastest method for working in 3D. In the standard display wireframe mode, it is now also available to users without the "OpenGL Workspace" module.

• The use of OpenGL can be turned on as described above via the screen settings. Without "OpenGL Workspace" it can only be turned on and off here.

• OpenGL wireframe is then used in Free Construction and in the 3D windows of roof calculation and roof design.

• Note: The displays with filled surfaces, textures and transparent displays are still content of the "OpenGL Workspace" module.

General Inputs

Centering the display in the sections of wall construction, ceiling construction and framework: Occasionally, components extend far beyond the actual building element, e.g. garage door guides into a garage wall. In wall construction, centering was previously done on the wall including all of its components, the wall itself was thus pushed out of the section area. Now we always center on the actual wall, ceiling or framework. This ensures that these are always visible in the sections.

Speed

Here is a collection of various measures to optimize speed:

Display speed through optimization of general structures of geometry description:

• E.g. rotation in OpenGL 4 times faster (from 10 fps to 40 fps); depending on graphics card.

• E.g. display of dialogs after certain steps in functions 3 times faster.

• E.g. reduction of magnification level (mouse right) 2-6 times faster.

(also V23.01.6) General structure in Hidden: Calculation of views and sections with hatching or filled surfaces in 1/8th of the time.

(also V23.01.6) Optimizations concerning refresh of building navigation: The time after ending a function until a new function could be called was dependent on project size and could be several seconds. Now it is always well under one second, so no longer means a delay. Affects both general functions and model area changes.

Optimization concerning refresh of dropdown lists for layers and styles in the icon bars: This sometimes slowed down function calls and execution. E.g. the functions show layer and hide layer, but also during input of a line string. These situations are now practically delay-free.

(also V23.01.6) Optimizations concerning model area changes: Optimizations independent of project size up to 2 seconds.

(also V23.01.7) Unnecessary preparation when moving the mouse cursor over main branch "FK" in building navigation eliminated. The preparation blocked the program depending on the size of the project up to 20 sec.

(also V23.01.7) In roof design, the analysis of the connection of purlins to other components was optimized. Depending on the number of purlins and affected components, the required time could be reduced to 1/10th (e.g. from 30 sec to 3 sec). In particular, recalculations after changes to purlins and recalculation of the entire roof design are correspondingly faster and smoother.

This optimization also affects the input of dormers: With dormers with roof design, the setup of dialogs is now delay-free.

The generation of adjustable material lists in plan filing occurs in the background via the building data program. The process could be optimized: In one example, 28 wall plans with 2 lists each required a total of 4:59 min, now it is only 1:52 min.

Visualization

For a representative, natural display of facades, the storey separation lines are calculated and hidden in OpenGL. In some cases, however, it is necessary to display these lines. The calculation of storey separation lines in OpenGL display can now optionally be turned on or off.

• In OpenGL Workspace, the menu is called up via the middle mouse button and in the submenu "OpenGL Workspace". There, after clicking on "Calculate Storey Separation Lines On/Off", the display is immediately recalculated and the storey separation lines appear or disappear.

• Note: In some cases, e.g. after activation, storey separation lines can appear even though they are not desired. In this case, call up the function "Recalculate Storey Separation Lines" in the "OpenGL Workspace" menu.

• In OpenGL Viewer, the menu is called up via the right mouse button. There, after clicking on "Storey Separation Lines On/Off (requires restart)", only the internal switch is set. For the display to be recalculated, the OpenGL Viewer must be exited and called up again. Only then will the storey separation lines appear or disappear.

Calculating storey separation lines in very large projects takes some time and affects the call-up of OpenGL Workspace. The calculation now occurs much faster; in a large example, the time could be reduced from 124 sec to 27 sec.

'Wall Body' - 'Texture Sets'

For the display of solid wood and board stack walls, various combinations of texture sets for visualization of the wall body have been added. The new texture sets are located in the directories 'mtexture - Formwork - Spruce' and 'mtexture - mineral - Solid wood wall'.

Display Settings

Display Settings - 'Floor Plan Views' / 'Elevations, Sections'

In the model areas 'Floor Plan', 'Floor Plan Views' and 'Elevations, Sections', the layers and reference axes can be turned on and off in the display control. With layers and reference axes turned on, these were also displayed continuously in opening areas. In many cases, this behavior is not desired. In the 'Information, Construction Display' group of the display control, it can now be decided - for the mentioned model areas - whether reference axes and layers should be displayed continuously in opening areas or not. To do this, simply select the corresponding option in the dropdown list 'Ref. axes / Layers in openings'.

OpenGL Workspace (optional module)

OpenGL offers ideal display options for various situations. To quickly switch between these, keyboard shortcuts are suitable. We have now included the following settings in the supplied settings for keyboard shortcuts. These apply to the OpenGL Workspace in the model areas Roof Design and D-CAM:

• O OpenGL Workspace on/off

• Ctrl + T Textures with edges

• Ctrl + W Wireframe

• Ctrl + D Transparent bodies on/off

If you do not want to adopt our keyboard shortcuts completely, you can add these under 1-7-08 in the subdialog "Keyboard shortcuts for functions from the menu".

Building Library (optional module)

Building Library - Floor Plan Views: In the function Floor Plan 1-5 Library - 1 Building, storeys with their floor plan views can be saved and loaded again. When loading, the checkbox "H" for the auxiliary geometry of the storey must be set.

Floor plan views that already exist in the target storey are not overwritten, i.e. not loaded again.

System -- Combination Elements

The combination element system has undergone extensive expansions. The following lists some key points for the application. The description of the entire system is summarized in the special manual: Program installation directory \documents\ger\Combination Elements_*.*. This manual explains not only the inputs in the dialogs but especially the basic relationships and techniques used here.

Combination Elements System Variables

System Variables - 'Height above Sea Level'

In the model area 'Floor Plan', a height above sea level (NN) can be specified in the function '2-4 Building Information'. Under the variable name 'HNN' (variable group 'Building Structure'), this value can now also be used in combination elements.

Combination Elements on Windows, Doors and Niches

New Combination Elements Windows

The possible constellations, especially with multi-leaf windows with top and bottom lights, mullion leaves and fixed glazing, etc., led to a steadily growing variety of combination elements to represent these. Therefore, these combination elements for entering windows have been completely revised and reduced to a reasonable number using new input options in the palette dialog.

You now only look for a "simple" or "universal" combination element for the desired window shape. Thus, the most frequently occurring windows can be entered with a clear dialog and all other constellations can be produced via intelligent switching of up to four vertical fields.

The "simple" combination element enables the input of a single or double-leaf window with transom or mullion. In contrast to the previous window combination elements, the opening direction can now be selected.

With the "Universal" combination element, the input of any conceivable combination of main leaves, top and bottom lights in one to four vertical fields is possible. After selecting the number of fields in the "Division" group, the corresponding rows for switching the leaves appear in the dialog. This determines the desired top and bottom lights, as well as the division of leaves across the fields. With the possibility of connecting adjacent fields separately by leaf type, all possible constellations in multi-leaf windows can be mapped.

In separate groups in the palette dialog, you determine the operating types and hinge sides of the leaves. Through dependent switching of the respective rows, error-free and simple input is enabled. In the preview, you always have the switched constellation under control. With the possibilities of the palette dialog, even the input of complex windows remains manageable.

Newly added is the possibility to display the leaves open in 3D. In the "Display" group, the opening dimensions can be set separately for window, door and tilt leaves.

Through appropriate switching in the default values of the building position, a group "free attributes" can be activated in the new window combination elements. Here five text variables are available, through which the user can completely freely pass information to other combination elements on the window or also to the HRB pre-run. For example, individual labels can be generated in the wall elevation or components can be switched in the HRB via corresponding conditions.

Through the new combination elements, the input of new windows becomes more intuitive and changing already entered windows becomes much easier. In addition, many more constellations are covered than before and new features enrich the optical display as well as the technical possibilities around the windows.

Temporary Plan Elements as Hints during Input of Windows and Doors

Drawing elements including dimensioning and texts are displayed in the preview during window input. This is helpful to give hints during input. However, these hints should no longer appear in the finally inserted window. For this purpose, the layer TEMPORARY has now been introduced. Further description see Compendium.

Modules for Special Constructions or Construction Areas

Electrical Installations (optional module)

Combination Elements - 'Electrical Installation / Switches and Outlets'

Thorough planning in timber construction also includes consideration of electrical installation. In planning, in coordination with the client, in addition to the distribution of outlets and switches, the determination of the outlet or switch type also takes place. Outlet drilling and cable feedthroughs must be generated, empty outlets and switches must be ordered. The new combination element 'Switches and Outlets' offers a powerful but accessible input possibility:

• Directory: 'KOL\HT-Electrical\Electrical Installation\Switches and Outlets'

• Input in 'Floor Plan'/'Floor Plan Views' via function '7-8-3 along wall edge' or in 'Wall Construction' via function '7-8-2/-3 on the front/back'

• Function features combination element 'Switches and Outlets':

  • graphical positioning via determination of an insertion point

  • orientation of outlets to insertion point adjustable (left/center/right)

  • generation of up to 4 groups vertically with up to 5 elements per group each

  • height and orientation (horizontal/vertical) controllable separately for each group

  • large selection of built-in elements (switches, outlets, buttons, outlets etc.)

  • automatic generation of dimensioning and labeling (e.g. circuit number), partial drawings as well as corresponding machine processing (drilling in plates for outlets, recesses in sill and header for cable routing)

  • applicable in timber frame construction and also with cross-laminated timber constructions

  • consideration of national conditions (separate diameters Switzerland)

  • list output of generated electrical components (via 'Hardware List')

Balcony Railings

Combination Elements - 'Balcony Railings'

An appealing visualization is one of the most important activities in handling a building project. A special aspect here is the visualization of balconies and their railings, as these play a striking role in the external appearance of a building. With the new combination element for balcony railings, modern and appealing railings can be entered conveniently and quickly:

• Directory: 'KOL\Ceiling\Balcony Railings'

• Input in 'Ceiling Construction' via function '7-8-2 in plan'

• Function features combination element 'Balcony Railings':

  • input of railings with positioning via selection of start and end point

  • automatic consideration of common corner and connection situations

  • free selection between different execution variants (surface-mounted, front-mounted, execution with balusters, execution with safety glass etc.)

  • item number, texture set, MOS and groups selectable separately for different elements

  • X-, Y- and Z-offset as well as height of handrail, max. field length, max. center distance of balusters etc. freely adjustable

  • optional visualization of a balcony power plant possible

Photovoltaics

Combination Elements - 'Photovoltaics'

For new buildings, a photovoltaic system is almost a must. This also influences the appearance of a building and should be displayed for realistic visualization. With the new combination element 'Photovoltaics', these systems can now be entered and thus displayed simply and quickly:

• Directory: 'KOL\Roof\Photovoltaics'

• Input in 'Roof Calculation' or 'Roof Design' via function '7-8-6 in roof surface'

• Function features combination element 'Photovoltaics':

  • graphical positioning via selection of an insertion point

  • optional specification of X-, Y- and Z-offset as well as freely adjustable orientation of modules

  • item number, texture set, MOS and group as well as size of panels freely selectable

  • number of panels in X- and Y-direction freely adjustable

Hardware Systems

Combination Elements - 'Hilti Wood Connectors'

The combination elements for entering Hilti wood connectors have been revised and expanded with the following points:

• Two additional fasteners selectable: bolt anchors and anchor rods

• When minimum dimensions or edge distances are undercut, corresponding warnings now appear according to ETA-21/0357

• Adjustment of countersunk holes and their situation-dependent selection:

  • Installation before framework assembly → smaller, more precise holes

  • Installation after framework assembly → larger holes for easier assembly

• Input of connectors on CLT panels:

  • Installation end-grain → flush countersunk

  • Installation longitudinal → flush, flange or foot countersunk

• Input of connectors in ceiling: timber beam ceiling and CLT panels

Combination Element - 'Buhl Dovetail Connector'

For entering the hardware system from Abbund Technik Allgäu, there is the new combination element "Buhl Dovetail Connector".

For timber frame and CLT elements, the required connectors (KR 46 or SV 15) with the associated machine-compatible processing can be generated in Free Construction.

Either as a row or as individual processing at a point, the connections are generated both at right-angled and miter connections. The orientation of the connectors (predetermined by the assembly sequence) as well as all important processing parameters (pocket dimensions, drilling depth, offset, etc.) are individually adjustable. Even the matching tool options, which are necessary for targeted control of various processing machines, can be selected accordingly.

The input of connectors occurs by clicking two points (start and end of row or point and orientation of individual connection) and selecting the two components. The dialog with the required parameters is supported as usual by auxiliary images and explanatory texts.

The machine processing is optimized in close coordination with the manufacturer and the hardware components themselves are assigned to a self-selected group for easier filtering for list output.

Floor Plan

Wall Processing - 'Rotate'

With the function '3-7 Rotate', it is possible from version 24 to rotate walls, i.e. to subsequently change or correct their orientation in the plan. The basic procedures correspond to the already known procedures from other program areas (e.g. rotating drawing elements). After selecting the rotation point, direct input of a rotation angle, alignment of a line to a second line and graphical rotation are available. Rotation of walls only makes sense within certain limits, therefore the maximum rotation angle is limited to 45°. If the wall to be rotated already contains windows, doors, components or other objects, these are considered and rotated accordingly with the wall. The connection situation is also considered during wall rotation. If attributes for wall ends are already set, these remain as originally set. Due to the complexity, the variety of possible constellations and the variety of resulting results, the final situation may need to be checked independently.

Wall Processing - 'Move'

The function '3-6 Move' from the 'Wall Processing' menu has been revised. The procedure for parallel displacement of walls now works primarily on the graphical selection of a base and target point. If the query for a base point is rejected with 'MouseRight', you get to the dialog 'Move Walls' and can manually enter or measure the distance for displacement as before.

Walls - 'Adopt'

For entering new walls, the execution, attributes and heights or height references of an existing wall can be completely and directly adopted with the 'Adopt' function. The only exceptions here are 'Positioning' and 'Input Direction'. After calling up the 'Adopt' function - found in the context menu 'Walls' - a new wall can be entered immediately. Due to the unpredictable target situation, 'Positioning' and 'Input Direction' are offered with 'Selection'. This grants the greatest possible flexibility when entering a new wall.

Additionally, the adopted information is held in a buffer and is thus also available later in other storeys or even other buildings. If you want to create a wall based on the information from the buffer, you will find the command in the context menu of the floor plan or a floor plan view ('MouseMiddle': 'Wall from 'Adopt''). The buffer always holds the information of the most recently adopted wall.

The numbers of walls are important for organization in manufacturing up to erection. Now the wall number can be used directly to distinguish between exterior and interior walls. For this purpose, an additional start number for interior walls is specified in the properties of a storey:

• For a storey it is determined that the walls begin at 100, the interior walls at 150. Then the first exterior wall will get number 100, the first interior wall will get number 150. Further walls receive the next number from their range.

• These start numbers are also considered when renumbering walls with function 3-06: When selecting the wall it receives the next number from its range.

• In function 3-04 Attributes the wall number can be assigned manually. There is no restriction by the start number, each wall can receive any number. However, if another wall must be renumbered as a result, the corresponding start number is considered for this.

• It is assumed that the start number of interior walls is greater than that of exterior walls.

• If no start number for interior walls is specified, they are numbered together with the other walls as before.

Floor Plan Views

Processing Plan Elements in Floor Plan and Floor Plan Views: In the storeys, plan elements like lines, circles, texts, dimensions etc. belong to the "Floor plan" or to one of the floor plan views. Via this affiliation, plan elements can be specifically turned on/off. To process these plan elements, it was previously necessary to switch to the corresponding floor plan view. Now all plan elements of a storey can be processed in the "Floor Plan" and each floor plan view of this storey, independent of their affiliation.

• This also applies to plan elements from combination elements: These are generated in the storey itself, i.e. in the "Floor Plan" and can now also be post-processed in each floor plan view.

• When copying or mirroring plan elements, the new plan element belongs to the same floor plan view as the selected plan element.

'Storey - Delete' - 'Floor Plan Views'

Via the command '2-1 Storey' in the model areas Floor Plan, Floor Plan Views and Ceiling Field, you get to the 'Delete' function. Using 'Delete', a storey could previously be deleted completely or optionally only windows, doors, components or auxiliary geometry. At this point, the floor plan views of a storey including their plan elements can now also be deleted separately. Plan elements of the storey (floor plan and ceiling field) are still deleted by setting the checkbox 'Auxiliary Geometry'.

Individual, Custom Layer Settings for Floor Plan Views, Elevations and Sections

In a building, e.g. lines for water pipes should generally be displayed in gray. In certain floor plan views, however, they are of special importance and should be blue. But the lines for pipe routing should not be entered twice. To make this possible, "individual, custom layer settings" have been introduced for floor plan views, elevations and sections.

Each layer exists only once in a building. Its settings for line type, line weight and color apply in all model areas and in all floor plan views, elevations and sections.

In floor plan views, elevations and sections, a checkbox can now be set for each layer in the new column "I" (Individual line and color settings for the view). Then the line type, line weight and color set there apply only to the current floor plan view, elevation or section.

If you then change one of these settings in this view, this applies only to the current view. All other model areas are not affected.

In all other model areas, the general settings apply. If you change the color there, for example, this change again applies to all model areas. The same applies to floor plan views, elevations and sections if the checkbox "I" is not set there.

The layer setting applies only to the current floor plan view, e.g. color blue. If this floor plan view is displayed in another floor plan view and the affected layer is gray there, the line is displayed gray. So the layer setting of the current floor plan view is decisive, not that of the floor plan view to which e.g. the line belongs.

The currently valid layer settings are passed to plans. However, as before, the layer settings in the plan (plan template) have priority if the layer already exists there.

The individual layer settings are saved in the floor plan view, elevation or section. Likewise, these are saved under "Edit" in the setting. If you load this setting in a new floor plan view, layers with individual settings are created anew if they do not yet exist in the current building. Note: Layers that are merely turned on in the setting are not automatically created.

Please note: In "1-7-9 Set Colors" it can be determined that auxiliary geometry of other building elements is displayed in a fixed color. This has top priority. If yellow is set there, for example, then the lines of other building elements (i.e. e.g. those of another storey) are always displayed yellow, regardless of what color or layer color they actually have.

Elevations, Sections

'Dimensioning and Labeling' - 'Elevation Marks'

Settings for elevation marks 'Structure' and 'Rafters' were previously made jointly for eave and ridge. From now on, these settings can be made separately:

• Eave (Structure)

• Ridge (Structure)

• Eave (Rafters)

• Ridge (Rafters)

This allows the possibility to create texts with the corresponding elevation marks to be used even more precisely.

Saved settings as well as settings made in the building are automatically migrated and applied to the new options listed above. Existing initial situations thus remain exactly preserved.

Individual, Custom Layer Settings for Floor Plan Views, Elevations and Sections

See above chapter on Floor Plan Views.

Roof Calculation, Roof Design and Free Construction - 'New Elevation, Section'

Previously, a new 'Elevation, Section' could be created from the model area 'Free Construction' by right-clicking on the node 'Elevations, Sections' in the building navigation and calling up the function 'New Elevation, Section'. This possibility is now also available in the model areas 'Roof Calculation' and 'Roof Design'. Additionally, the function can now also be called up via the menu using '9-8 New Elevation, Section' in the mentioned model areas and the model area 'Elevations, Sections' itself.

If a new 'Elevation, Section' was created from the model area 'Free Construction', the last used settings of the model area 'Elevations, Sections' were used for 'Display' and 'Dimensioning & Labeling'. This system has been changed. For the display setting, the current setting of the model area is now automatically adopted for the new section or elevation. To clearly show that these are adopted settings, they are displayed in angle brackets. For the 'Dimensioning & Labeling' setting, the last used setting from the model area 'Elevations, Sections' is still used, since no comparable settings exist in the other mentioned model areas that could be adopted.

Doors and Windows in Floor Plan and Wall Construction

In window and door input, the option "Templates" in the "Method for Construction" is still offered for older projects. This outdated method will be removed from the program in one of the next versions and only the option "Combination Elements (Standard)" will be supported. Therefore, a corresponding message now appears when changing or entering a door or window if the method "Templates" is still being used. After a building has been opened, this message appears once; only after reopening the building will it be displayed again in the corresponding situation.

Accordingly, when creating a new setting for windows or doors, the option "Combination Elements (Standard)" is automatically set as default.

Windows/Doors - 'Adopt'

The functions 'Adopt Door' and 'Adopt Window, Niche' have been expanded with the buffer technique. Adopted doors, windows and niches are thus also available for later insertion in other storeys or even other buildings. If you want to create a door, window or niche based on the buffer information, you will find the command in the context menu of the floor plan or a floor plan view or in the context menu of wall construction ('MouseMiddle': '*** from 'Adopt''). The buffer always holds the information of the most recently adopted object.

Ceiling

Ceiling - 'Adopt'

For entering new ceilings, the execution and heights or height references of an existing ceiling can be completely and directly adopted with the 'Adopt' function. After calling up the 'Adopt' function - found in the context menu 'Ceiling Field' - a new ceiling can be entered immediately. Due to the unpredictable target situation, the standard procedure for entering the new ceiling field is 'Input'. This grants the greatest possible flexibility in creating the new ceiling field.

Additionally, the adopted information is held in a buffer and is thus also available later in other storeys or even other buildings. If you want to create a new ceiling based on the buffer information, you will find the command in the context menu of the ceiling field ('MouseMiddle': 'Ceiling from 'Adopt''). The buffer always holds the information of the most recently adopted ceiling.

Dormers

In the calculation dialog boxes of all dormer types, a measurement function for the distance of the dormer front edge to the reference line has been built in. Thus the distance can be measured quickly directly from the calculation dialog box in the top view of the roof.

Rooms, Floor Areas, Room Contents

The following lists some key points for the 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\Rooms_*.*.

When determining room measurements, the minimum line length for deductions is now adjustable. Thus, agreements deviating from the VOB standard value of 1.00 m can be considered.

• In the definition of rooms, you can assign an item number for "Floor covering edge at wall". These edges are determined as measurement lines.

• Interruptions through doors and ceiling openings are also deducted at the surrounding edge.

• For the measurement value "Length", only interruptions longer than the adjustable "Minimum line length for deductions" are deducted. The standard value is 1.00 m. If, for example, a door opening is less wide than this value, it is measured over and not deducted from the edge length. This corresponds to consideration according to VOB.

• For the measurement value "true length", all interruptions are deducted; this value is independent of the "Minimum line length for deductions".

The "Minimum line length for deductions" can only be set in function 1-9-4 Lists - Measurement. During filing, the value is then considered accordingly.

• This value is stored separately in each building. It can thus be set specifically for each building and is offered accordingly for the next filing.

• In the display, labeling can be set for the rooms. With version V22.01, the value "Floor covering edge at wall" was added there. Here the measurement value "Length" is specified, so the "Minimum line length for deductions" is considered here

Note: Existing rooms from older program versions should be recalculated.

Rooms: Default files for "Room name" and "Execution for measurement".

• To define defaults for the "Room name", the file RoomName.vor can be edited in the vor-directory (..\winvor\ger.

• To define defaults for the " Execution for measurement ", the file RoomExecMeas.vor can be edited in the vor-directory (..\winvor\ger.

• If these files are found, the defaults can be selected via the browser button at the end of the input field. The defaults are grouped. In each line there is a default value that is adopted, and behind the equals sign a comment that supports selection.

Component Processing in Wall Construction, Ceiling Construction, Roof Design, Framework and Free Construction

Visualization of Drilling: Uncut Drilling Volumes

Drilling can only be displayed with its drilling axis; this is fast but looks unrealistic. Visualization of drilling via generation of drill holes is optically very good but also very time-intensive. The new form of "uncut drilling" offers an optimal combination of display quality and speed.

With uncut drilling, the drill hole is displayed as a body that is not intersected with the actual component:

• Visualization is significantly faster: In one example, a plate with 130 drillings requires 13 seconds for recalculation with drill holes, with uncut drilling volumes only under 1 second.

  • Calculation of hidden displays (Surface Hidden) also occurs significantly faster: In one example with heavily drilled plates, the time is reduced from 21 to 4 seconds.

• There are practically no intersection problems.

• Very high quality in display is achieved.

  • For this, the drilling volumes are reduced so that they represent the drill hole: e.g. an angled drilling is reduced at its drilling entry according to the reference side and does not appear as an obliquely penetrating cylinder.

  • The drillings are fully visible in wireframe mode. Optimal visualization for processing results in OpenGL with the setting "transparent bodies".

  • In plan displays (Surface Hidden) there are only few differences to drill holes.

The desired display of drilling can be controlled accordingly:

• In function "3-1-02 Visualize Drilling", settings for a current, temporary selection and general recalculation are now distinguished.

  • The setting in the first area is applied to the currently selected components. At the next recalculation in the program, the general setting is then used again. So you can e.g. temporarily create a more accurate display. You get this more accurate display without overwriting the general setting.

  • The general setting is used for every further recalculation in the building. It is thus set so that you have a good display with optimal speed.

• For both situations there are 2 minimum diameters each:

  • Drillings are always displayed with their drilling axis (if turned on in the display control). From the first diameter, the drillings are also represented as uncut drilling volumes. This applies to all drillings with diameter smaller than the second diameter.

  • From the second diameter, the drillings are then intersected with the component as drill holes. If you enter 0.0 as diameter, this applies to all drillings.

  • The procedures can thus be mixed. The typical application: In the countersunk hole, the screw heads should also be visible in textured or hidden display. Therefore the countersunk hole should be calculated as a drill hole, while the uncut drilling volume suffices for the through hole.

• The set diameters can be different in each building. Therefore they are saved in the building position.

Processing of Drilling

Drillings are the most frequent processing on components. Regularly it occurs that changes must be made to these drillings, e.g. changing the diameter. Via node plates or combination elements this can partially be executed in one step for the associated drillings. For otherwise generated drillings, these had to be post-processed individually. Post-processing of drillings is now significantly more efficient.

Multiple drillings can be post-processed simultaneously:

• After calling up function 3-04-8, the drillings are selected. The usual selection options of individual selection, selection via line, window, crossing etc. are available. All selected drillings are processed in one step.

• Perpendicular drillings (4101-1) and general drillings (4101-0) cannot be processed simultaneously in one step. Therefore, further selection is determined by the first selected drilling: If this is a perpendicular drilling (4101-1), only further perpendicular drillings can be selected, general drillings (4101-0) are ignored.

• Drillings in currently visible components can be selected. It does not matter whether the components are activated or not.

After selecting the drillings, the dialog for changing the drillings appears.

• In the title bar, the number of currently selected drillings is displayed. This can be good control for the plausibility of the selection, that neither too many nor too few drillings were selected.

Flexible possibilities are offered when changing parameters:

• If a value matches for all selected drillings, it is displayed, e.g. a diameter of 0.04. If the diameters do not match, three asterisks "***" are displayed there.

  • If the "***" remain, the original, different diameters are preserved.

  • If the "***" are overwritten with a concrete value, all drillings receive this diameter.

• The three asterisks "***" can be combined as a formula with a difference value to change them all by the same value:

  • After the "***" the difference value is added with plus or minus: e.g. "***+0.1" or "***-0.04".

  • The function now calculates the value with the difference for each individual drilling. Example: If multiple drillings have a different longitudinal dimension, "***" is displayed there. We add to "***+0.1". The function now moves all drillings by 0.1 m.

• The three asterisks "***" can be combined as a formula with a factor to change them all by the same ratio:

  • After the "***" it is multiplied with *. For doubling, enter: "****2.0" (four asterisks)

  • After the "***" it is divided with /. For halving, enter: "***/2.0"

  • With this, the distance within a drilling group can be changed in 2 steps. Example: With longitudinal dimension 0.6 there is a drilling row with a drilling distance of 0.2. The distance of the drillings should be halved. In the first step, the longitudinal dimension of the drillings is halved: "***/2.0". Now the distance of the drillings to each other is correct, but the whole group was moved from 0.6 to 0.3. Then you select them again and move the whole group with "***+0.3" back to a longitudinal dimension of 0.6.

• Special feature "Reference for transverse dimension" and "Transverse dimension Y":

  • With the options "Reference for transverse dimension", the "Transverse dimension Y" is measured in different directions. If you increase the "Transverse dimension Y" by 0.04, then with "Reference for transverse dimension"="left" it moves to the right, with "Reference for transverse dimension"="right" it moves to the left. "left" and "right" apply here when looking at the reference side.

  • If the "Reference for transverse dimension" is changed, the value for "Transverse dimension Y" is not converted but remains preserved. If this was 0.1, then with "left" it is measured from the left edge to the right, with "right" from the right edge to the left.

  • This is particularly to be noted when the three asterisks "***" are displayed for the "Reference for transverse dimension". Changes in "Transverse dimension Y" then affect the individual drillings differently.

Special Selection via "Similar"

• A drilling was selected in the selection and you want to select all "similar" drillings. For this, press the letter "A". Now all similar drillings are offered for confirmation. The selection is confirmed with the left mouse button, rejected with the right mouse button.

• If the offered selection does not meet expectations, you can press "A" again instead of a mouse button to adjust the criteria for "Similar":

  • The dialog for entering drillings appears. The displayed values correspond to those of one of the already selected drillings.

  • The input fields are highlighted in red or green. This status can be changed by clicking with the mouse.

  • Green highlighted fields must match for the "similar" drillings. If e.g. the diameter is highlighted green, only drillings with exactly the same diameter are offered as similar drillings.

  • Red highlighted fields are ignored for selection. If e.g. the longitudinal dimension is highlighted red, drillings with different longitudinal dimensions are also accepted as "similar" if their green highlighted fields match.

  • With Ok the dialog is closed and the new selection of similar drillings is immediately offered. Then it can again be accepted or rejected with mouse button or the criteria for similar drillings can be adjusted with renewed "A".

• If multiple drillings are already selected when calling up "similar", the similar ones are searched for each of these drillings. If you have already selected e.g. one drilling with 0.02 m and one with 0.04 m diameter and trigger "A", then drillings with 0.02 m and drillings with 0.04 m diameter are offered.

• Via "Similar", only drillings in currently visible components are always selected. Drillings from invisible components cannot be changed by mistake. It does not matter whether the components are activated or not.

Differently Generated Drillings

• Drillings are generated with the most various procedures: Direct input via the corresponding functions, in connections, in node plates, via point symbols, Type 4 processing, combination elements and HRB assignment.

• All these drillings can be post-processed and changed with function 3-04-8.

• Drillings from connections, in node plates and from combination elements are newly generated during recalculation. These then lose the changes made via 3-04-8.

  • Post-processing was nevertheless enabled, since in many cases no recalculation occurs afterwards. E.g. when diameters must be adjusted immediately before transfer to the machine.

  • However, a safety notice occurs in the post-processing function if such drillings are in the selection.

Erection Sequence, Load Planning

Load Planning (optional module)

Libraries 'Load Planning' - 'Loading Aids'

The libraries for 'Load Planning' have been expanded in cooperation with Auwärter company. Selected products from Auwärter's portfolio are now available. The following 'Loading Aids' have been added:

• Trailers (Truck)

  • Turntable Trailer TL 240

  • Tandem Trailer WF 170

  • Tandem Trailer X 110 L

  • Tandem Trailer X 170 L

  • Tandem Trailer X LTL 110

  • Tandem Trailer X LTL 160

  • Turntable Trailer X TL 240

  • Semi-trailer XSW 300

• Trailers (Car)

  • Low-bed Trailer T35 - 2040

  • Low-bed Trailer T35 - 2050

  • Low-bed Trailer T35 - 2240

  • Low-bed Trailer T35 - 2250

  • Platform Trailer T35 O - 2040

  • Platform Trailer T35 O - 2050

  • Platform Trailer T35 O - 2240

  • Platform Trailer T35 O - 2250

• Swap Bodies (Truck)

  • Swap Body TLP 240

  • Swap Body XP 110 L

  • Swap Body XP 170

  • Swap Body XP 170 L

  • Swap Body XP BDF (7m)

  • Swap Body XP BDF (9m)

  • Swap Body XPU 110 L

  • Swap Body XPU 170 L

  • Swap Body XSWP 300

  • Swap Body XSWPU 300

• Swap Bodies (Car)

  • Swap Body XPU T35 - 2040

  • Swap Body XPU T35 -- 2050

Generally, all trailers have an extension (e.g. telescopic drawbar) and can thus be adapted in length to the load to be transported. The respective products have been stored with long/short information in the libraries. During insertion, the length can be set accordingly. Furthermore, all mentioned 'Loading Aids' contain the respectively possible 'Loading Level Groups'. A 'Base Working Level' has been provided for each 'Loading Level Group'.

Horizontal Statics, Building Bracing

The previous inputs and calculations of building bracing have been completely revised. We have renamed the module designation from Building Bracing to Horizontal Statics, since in addition to the verification of timber frame walls and beam ceilings (new), the focus is on horizontal load determination and load transfer through the building. The description of the statics components for horizontal statics can be found in the current update description for DC-Statics.

Plans, Plan Program

Plan Program General

Performance: In the plan program, filings are inserted with function 1-2-1. A filing can contain very many individual filings, e.g. for individual beam plans. Opening these for selection was significantly accelerated: In one example from 15min to a few seconds.

Dynamic Plans

The automatic labels in floor plan views, floor plan drawings etc. can be executed not only as text but also as labeling with corresponding reference points. The texts of these labels can be moved, the movement remains even after recalculation. Now the reference point of these labels can also be moved with function (0)6-9-7. Thus the reference point can be set to a clearer location or overlaps with the reference line can be avoided. This movement also remains during recalculation.

Interfaces General

2D Export - PDF (optional module! Graphics Interfaces Planning)

Plan Program PDF Export: Especially through the possibilities of the new elevations and sections, more and more images, i.e. pixel graphics, are saved in plans. In the plans themselves, we keep the images in a format with optimal quality; when outputting on paper, large display without quality loss is thus also possible. When exporting the plan as PDF, however, very large PDF files are also created which e.g. cause problems in email dispatch. Therefore, the images are now size-optimized exported to PDF files; this creates a hardly perceptible quality loss.

Example from plan that mainly contains 2 images: PDF file from previous export is 25.4 MB large, that from optimized export only 7.0 MB, so only a quarter.

Import -- General

When calling up import functions, the last loaded file was previously automatically reopened. With large files, opening can take some time and is unnecessary if another file is to be selected. However, the process cannot be interrupted. To enable quick file change, the import functions now open in the last used directory without opening a file. Thus it is possible without delay to change directory and file or to reopen the last loaded file.

In addition, the last opened directories are now kept separately for each import function.

Import - Building - IFC and IFC-Premium (optional modules)

Working with IFC has undergone extensive expansions. The following lists some key points for the application. The description of the entire system is summarized in the special manual: Program installation directory \documents\ger\IFC_*.*. This manual explains not only the inputs in the dialogs but especially the basic relationships and techniques used here.

IFC Import: The first reading of the IFC file occurs for preview and to be able to make settings. The actual import can be extensively optimized via settings, especially by excluding components (material, types like furniture, ..) or building structures (storeys). The required time for this first reading could be reduced by up to 90%.

IFC Import: Various optimizations could be made for the import. Among other things, further processes were redesigned so that they can be calculated in parallel on multiple processor cores (multithreading). Depending on the content of the IFC file, the required time could be reduced by up to 70%.

In IFC import, objects (IFC identifiers, IFC entities) were previously ignored that had no specific use in our system, e.g. IfcPipefitting from building services. Now generally all objects are read in that can be mapped via a volume or surface model. The corresponding "IFC Identifiers" are listed in the "Assignment Item Numbers". There it can be set whether they are imported and with which item number they should then be linked.

The terrain model is frequently transmitted in IFC via the IfcSite (construction site) by attaching corresponding geometry there. This geometry is now imported as a surface object or volume:

• In the assignment of item numbers, the IfcSite is listed in the "IFC Identifier" column if it contains geometry. Then a corresponding item number can be assigned.

• The generated objects belong to "Free Construction".

• The volume bodies or surface objects can be used for visualization and processed accordingly. They cannot be adjusted like terrain models from "Floor Plan 2-7" since they were not determined from terrain points and break lines.

Export - Building - IFC (optional module)

IFC Export: When an IFC export is generated, GUIDs are created for the exported objects; with these they are uniquely identifiable in IFC. This generation is now recorded as a change to the building; if you open a building and only generate an IFC export, the saving of changes is requested when closing the building.

Export - Building - 3D Web Viewer (optional module)

3D Web Viewer with 3D Labels: 3D labels are used in D-CAM. These are now also transferred to the 3D Web Viewer via 1-05-04. Thus important notes and labels can be displayed directly in the 3D Web Viewer.

Export options:

• With the selection "all parts", all 3D labels are also exported, even if their layer is turned off.

• With the selection "visible parts", only the visible 3D labels are exported, their layer must therefore be turned on.

• With the selection "active parts", no 3D labels are exported, even if their layer is turned on, because 3D labels cannot be set active.

In the 3D Web Viewer, a second tab with the layers of the 3D labels appears in addition to the building structure.

• The 3D labels can be turned on/off via the layers. Related 3D labels should therefore belong to the same layer.

• The status of the layers is saved in the scenes. You can thus determine which labels should be displayed in a scene and which not.

• If no 3D labels are exported, the "Layer" dialog does not appear.

Display of 3D labels in the 3D Web Viewer:

• The display options of 3D labels cannot be changed in the 3D Web Viewer, but they partially adopt the settings at the moment of export.

• The option "Interrupt lines through texts" is considered for each individual label according to its current situation. If lines are to be interrupted, the label has a transparent but clear background, otherwise no background.

• The appearance of the reference line corresponds to that in the building.

• Font:

  • Font and color are transferred to the 3D Web Viewer.

  • Underline, italic and bold are not considered in the 3D Web Viewer.

  • The texts are displayed by the browser as text. Therefore, font size and line height are not adopted from the building. This has the advantage that font size and line height are always constant and easy to read. Even when zooming, their size is not changed. And as usual in browsers, the font size can be adjusted with "Ctrl +" and "Ctrl -".

  • Frames as rectangle or circle are transferred as "style": If the label has a rectangle frame in the building, it also gets one in the 3D Web Viewer. But the exact distances and line weights are not adopted from the building.

  • The reference line is displayed very similarly: The line end, i.e. as arrow, circle etc., and the line length to the bend.

Machine

Postprocessor

General

There are machines to which you may not pass duplicate numbers and therefore this has always been checked during machine transfer and displayed with a message if there are duplicate numbers. But there are more and more machines that allow duplicate numbers. Therefore, a new dropdown list has now been built into the machine transfer dialog box with which you can set whether the program should check for duplicate sequence numbers. For machine transfers P10, K1, K2-4axis and K2-5axis, this dropdown list is deactivated and permanently set to check sequence numbers. For all other machine transfers, this dropdown list is available and you can set yourself whether the sequence numbers should be checked.

Cambium / Cambium Contour

For the transfer of panels to Cambium, there has always been recognition of machine processing. Therefore, you can set in the transfer for various processing whether they are transferred as existing processing (checkbox set) or whether they are transferred as contour line. Here the V-cut processing has been added. Depending on the position/orientation of the V-cut, it is better to transfer it as processing directly (e.g. for profile connections) or to let the V-cut flow into the normal contour analysis. With the switch you can now influence this.

The fiber direction is always transferred along the X-axis of the component. In the 'General Settings' of the postprocessor you can now specify whether the component should be aligned to the fiber or not. This is transferred to the field of the same name in Cambium.

In the settings dialog box 'Replace Geometries' there has always been the checkbox 'V-cut as free curve'. This option had converted V-cuts into a free curve when the angle between both surfaces was 90°. Now V-cuts with an angle greater than 90° are also converted into two free curves.

Cambium Contour: Especially for the transfer of panels, it is desirable to force some processing to a specific reference side (frame). Therefore, a dropdown list with the following options has been built into various Cambium tools:

• Automatic: The reference side is automatically determined by the program, as it has always been.

• C/E: The processing is forced to reference sides C or E as far as possible. This corresponds to edges 2 or 4 in Cambium for panels.

• D/F: The processing is forced to reference sides D or F as far as possible. This corresponds to surfaces 1 or 3 in Cambium for panels.

This has been built in for the following Dietrich's -> Cambium implementations:

• Pocket from contour line rebate, open recess

• Rebate (Step) from rebate, contour line rebate, open recess, recess

• Limited Rebate (BlindStep) from contour line rebate, open recess, recess

Panels can have two or even three sections at one edge. A typical example of this is the connections to a profile beam (e.g. U-beam or double-T beam). When determining contours, the section with the larger angle to the underside of the panel was previously written into the contour and the other sections were transferred as additional sections. The analysis has now been changed so that the section whose angle is closer to perpendicular to the panel surface is written into the contour. This is intended to transfer the smallest possible contour to Cambium.

For the filing of panels, there is a new option with which you can keep the sections that are otherwise contained in the contour as extra sections. The sections are then transferred in addition to the contour. This can be particularly interesting when certain edges should not get webs. This option can be found as a checkbox in the dialog box where you make the settings for processing and contour analysis.

For the transfer of recesses and open recesses, the Cambium processing rebate and limited rebate have been built in. Recesses or open recesses can be entered like a rebate or limited rebate at the edge of a beam or panel. With the new possibility, these processing can also be transferred as rebate or limited rebate to Cambium. The setting for this is made in the postprocessor in the tool assignments for open recess and recess.

For the transfer of V-cuts, the Cambium rebate can now optionally also be used. This works even when the surface angle between both surfaces of the V-cut is greater or less than 90°. Then the shear angle is transferred accordingly with a value greater or less than zero.

A beam can have planed surfaces on different sides of the beam and this can be at the beginning, at the end or even in the middle of the beam. The transfer now analyzes the existing planed surfaces and combines them into one processing if they have the same length and same longitudinal position.

Building Data Program

General

Filing Measurement with "Building Element Additional Type": For walls, the "additional wall type" can be set in the execution. This is used particularly in subsequent ERP systems or production control systems as a controlling parameter. The "additional wall type" is now also filed in the filing - measurement for the walls.

• In the building data program, the value of the individual wall appears in the tree of measurement values at the lowest level. There the additional wall type is also displayed at the wall. e.g. "EG W 6 (90) AWSo" stands for Earth Ground floor, Wall 6, angle to north orientation 90° and additional wall type = AWSo.

• In the building data Excel transfer, the "Building Element Additional Type" can be treated as its own field for the measurement values and in the material lists.

• In the column settings, the column "BE Add.Type" has been added. In this column, the additional wall type can be displayed in the material lists. Prerequisite is that measurement values, and thus also the information, have already been filed for the respective wall.

Component Catalog, Manufacturers, Products

The following products were added or updated in the component catalog:

• Cross-Laminated Timber -- CLT: manufacturer-independent item numbers were added

• Cross-Laminated Timber -- KLH: the existing item numbers were updated

• Cross-Laminated Timber -- Mayr Melnhof: the products were added for structural design, the item numbers can also be used in the building

• Cross-Laminated Timber -- ZÜBLIN Timber: the existing item numbers were updated

• Connection Systems -- BECK: Lignoloc nails were added

• Connection Systems -- EUROTEC: the product range was updated

• Connection Systems -- HAUBOLD: the product range was updated

• Connection Systems -- HECO: the product range was updated

• Connection Systems -- PASLODE: the product range was updated

• Connection Systems -- SCHMID SCHRAUBEN HAINFELD: the product range was updated

• Roof Tiles, Roof Tiles -- KORAMIC: the product range was updated

• Beams / Profile Beams: Wood, Eng. Wood -- FRANCE POUTRES: web beams were added

• Beams / Profile Beams: Wood, Eng. Wood -- MASONITE BEAMS (ISB-Sinbpla): web beams were added

• Beams / Profile Beams: Wood, Eng. Wood -- RETROTIMBER: construction timber and glued laminated timber were added

• Panels, Insulation Panels -- elka: natural wood panel VITA, OSB Standard and OSB Plus were added

• Panels, Insulation Panels -- SINIAT: Defentex and Nida Twarda were added

• Panels, Insulation Panels -- STEICO: the range was updated

• Layers by Manufacturer/STEICO: layers for insulation panels and membranes were added