2023-02-15 03:00 PM - edited 2023-12-18 01:45 PM
This update is a milestone in achieving unified functionality across all platforms, bringing significant performance improvements and new features for architects, clients, and every BIMx user.
As of February 15, 2023, the new BIMx Web is available on BIMx Model Transfer.
BIMx Desktop has also been updated with the same improvements. Download it from the Microsoft Store (Windows) and from the Apple App Store (macOS).
Update: Several features have been added to the next-gen web and desktop apps since February 2023, such as Measure, Shading options, Shadows with date sun positioning, Interactive labels, etc. Check out BIMx News! This article presents the next-gen app's first release.
These next-gen applications include the benefits of our new 3D engine introduced on iOS in 2020 and a year later on Android, in addition to other enhancements described below.
Previously, displaying the list of publisher items and loading complex 3D models could take up to a few minutes, especially in the web app.
This version improves performance as follows:
The new version eliminates the loading time of the list of publisher items. Hyper-model index appears immediately both in the web and desktop apps.
The most significant benefit of the new version is the increased loading performance. Opening virtual models is up to 15 times faster in the desktop version. Most models load within a few seconds — for example, the S-Office sample Hyper-model’s 3D opens within 2 seconds instead of 20 seconds.
Loading can also be exponentially faster in the web app depending on the internet speed.
Note: The second and subsequent loading of the same model is even faster in the browser application thanks to BIMx Model Transfer's caching technology.
In previous versions, exploring the virtual model could be jerky primarily in case of high polygon numbers (e.g., many detailed objects). The collision detection while navigating in Walk and Gamer mode reduced Frame Per Sec (FPS) noticeably.
Now our new 3D engine brings increased 3D navigation performance, not only in the default fly-around mode but also with active collision detection if gravity is on.
See how much smoother e.g. the camera rotation is in the new BIMx Desktop (2022.4567):
Previous desktop version (2022.4390) on the same computer:
The new version uses around half of the memory (RAM). BIMx performs more efficiently with other applications running parallel – so fewer content reloads are needed.
Same functionality, cleaner look.
The redesigned built-in help is simple. Unlike the previous full-screen variant, the new version allows you to explore the complete project documentation when the help is open, so it’s much easier to learn how to use BIMx.
Switch between the pages on the left side menu.
Gallery moved from the left-side menu to the Views quick menu in the bottom-right corner - since it's related to the currently open 3D model.
Use BIMx’s floating buttons to view separate gallery items or play the animation. Read more about how to export to BIMx’s Gallery in this article.
More convenient distribution for input devices, like up and down is Q and E instead of R and V; and the switch between orbit and rotate is now space instead of alt/opt keys.
Learn more in the input devices section of the updated online help.
In previous versions, BIMx’s default camera movement directions did not suit everyone's personal preferences.
Based on your feedback, we created inverting toggles. These new customization tools change camera rotation in the opposite direction both horizontally and vertically.
Previously, Walk mode used an always-on joystick, and navigation without clicks in Gamer mode worked only with gravity.
The next-gen version introduces a new, modularized system for more customizable navigation.
The following modifiers are organized in the bottom-right corner:
These functions were available only in mobile applications. Future updates will include other features like the Smart Measure tool and shadow casting.
The following sliders are available in the new version:
Previously, the blue highlight disappeared after a few seconds from 3D elements when opened from a schedule, BIMx Model Transfer hyperlink, or opening the Element Information popover from the context menu.
The green element selection was available only on iOS and Android.
Now similar to the mobile apps, selection is automatically activated on elements when opened from a schedule or via hyperlink created on BIMx Model Transfer. Selection redefines navigation origin and can be applied to multiple elements.
Right-clicking (or long tap) on an element to open the element context menu works with a permanent highlight, to better visualize the relevant part of the model.
Opening the Zone in 3D from the element information popover in 2D (from Zone Stamp) was only available in the mobile apps. Now the “Go to 3D” button appears in Zone Info.
Note: Interactive Zone Labels (similar to how Zone Stamp objects work) are coming soon.
Previous BIMx web and desktop applications cut the model at half the height of the 3D model’s bounding box using the "Cut model" function.
Now the "Cut model” (C)" function in 3D already considers the camera position and cuts the model accordingly 1,0m (3,3ft) above the current story level - similar to the typical floor plan cut height.
Note: "Show in 3D" function available on layouts cuts the 3D model 2,3m (7,5ft) above the current story level to better represent interior space.
In case of any issue or request, feel free to contact us at bimx@graphisoft.com!