Performance-efficient GDL objects for BIM modelling

[Anonymous]

Dear all,
I am beginner BIM coordinator, and started my first project in Constructor 2008. Building is very complex (ICI), and uses extensively curtainwall objects, as well as numerous openings for M+E infrastructure.
As in my case BIM model is used for M+E interference study and 4D schedule only, I guess I can use simplified GDL objects, that are not realistic. Please, advise if there any information available as to how to create lean GDL's or where to get an explanation what factors influence .gsm's resource draining.
Thank you in advance!

[Aaron Bourgoin]

Denis,

How far along in the process are you? ArchiCAD/Constructor models are generally pretty lean. Its the Section/Elevation/Detail windows that cause PLN files to grow.

I would avoid the curtainwall objects in the current version of Constructor and perhaps try a different scenario using "empty openings" inserted in a wall. These should better allow you to attach recipes and derive quantities in Estimator. Abstracting the building envelope in this way should help.

If you are still concerned about the "complexity" of the model you might consider these points:

Most ArchiCAD objects now have parameters that control the complexity of the object. Many also have a switch to turn shadowing off.

A plug-in called Polycount is available from the Help Menu. Navigate to the Goodies web page and install Polycount in your Add-Ons folder. This will let you adjust complexity parameters in the model as a batch.

[Anonymous]

Aaron, thank you for prompt reply !
Project is pretty much finished, but we are going through extensive post- VE change, so I have a chance to simplify things.
My frustration is coming from long waiting times when exporting this model to dxf ( the only way we can communicate with consultants , that use Bentley and Autocad ), and when computer is freezing for indefinite time ( sometimes up to 3-4 minutes) in 3D view, so I am ending up not using 3D, trying to figure out everything from layouts and sections.
Polycount really works in 3D, I just finished to run this utility. Thank you !

[Aaron Bourgoin]

Denis,

Does the Constructor MEP component include the plug-in that comes with the ArchiCAD MEP application? (Constructor MEP and ArchiCAD MEP are very similar, but not identical!).

In the ArchiCAD MEP install folder there is a folder called "ArchiCAD Connection Plug-In". This is meant to be installed on an AutoCAD MEP workstation.

DXF is absolutely the lowest common denominator for this kind of information exchange. YUCK!

Maybe you should look at Solibri or Navisworks for this purpose.

[David Larrew]

I agree with Aaron... I would recommend Solibri Model Checker over Navisworks. Solibri's IFC exchange is much cleaner.