topic Re: MEP Modeler non-standard bends in Collaboration with other software

MEP Modeler non-standard bends

Anonymous — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:09:59 GMT

I am currently working on some drainage pipe routing and can't figure out any way to limit the MEP modeler to use ONLY standard bends.

As you see in the attached screenshot, the MEP routing function has created a bend of 37.87 degree. This type of bend is non-standard and will need to be custom made, hence, not realistic for actual construction with normal budget.

Am I missing any settings that can make the auto-routing use ONLY standard bends? i.e. 1/4 bend, 1/5 bend, 1/6 bend, etc... I've set the standard bend angles in MEP preferences, but that doesn't prevent the system from using non-practical angles.

Please help, and thank you in advance!

Re: MEP Modeler non-standard bends

Conrado Dominguez — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 23:23:09 GMT

In your example, you have a very tight space to work, however, if possible, try this.

In my experience (and exasperation with MEP) after placing any pipe itersecting element (T's, Y's. etc) the only way to connect and continue piping in the same direction/slope/angle of the elbow is to snap a small straight section at the free end of the elbow. Do not attempt to START ROUTING, instead modify the parameter lenght of a straight pipe and give it a 2"or 3".
Snap these small pipe section and then continue if you wish with ROUTING.

Hope this help you

Re: MEP Modeler non-standard bends

Anonymous — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:17:51 GMT

Thanks a lot, Conrado. I am new to the whole MEP aspect of modeling, so I am still learning from mistakes.

It seems like you have quite a hand full of experience with MEP modeler. Hope you don't mind me asking another question.

Have you had any trouble locking down the rise/drop unit into something other than default degrees? say % or inch/feet?

I can't seem to lock down on the inch/feet option. Every so often the system kicks it back to degrees while the setting in the preferences is still in inch/feet.
Once its in degrees, I don't know how to get it back to inch/feet when the setting is set with inch/feet...

Frustration...

Re: MEP Modeler non-standard bends

Conrado Dominguez — Wed, 02 May 2012 17:25:42 GMT

Don't mind your question or questions anytime

Like you, I have given up trying to "lock" the sope aspect in MEP.
Usually, I have to draw the slope, measure the angle and then input the slope in MEP in degrees.

I am arranging for an on-line training session for MEP. So far I have listed:
slope piping/duct; clash detection; mark up tools and now that you ask about locking the slope preference, I will include it.
Let me know if you have another question, MEP or Archicad, and I will include it in the agenda.

BTW, you are in Campbell and I am in San Mateo, you are welcome to join me during this session; this is a first for me but Graphisoft convinced me it will save me time and efforts in the long run.