3D modeler ArchiCAD (Graphisoft) and structural engineering/analysis solution ETABS (CSI, Inc.) can now bi-directionally exchange model data. The new capability is made possible by the support in both products for the IFC 2x2 data standard published by the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI).
This news contracts sharply with two recent acquisitions by Bentley Systems, who now own the RAM International and STAAD.Pro structural engineering software lines. Graphisoft is a leading advocate of “best of breed” solutions from separate vendors who unite around the IFC data standards; Bentley is compatible with IFC standards but prefers to offer a “one neck to choke” approach to building design software. Bentley is launching a new initiative called Integrated Engineering, to bring design, engineering, and analysis into one united modeling environment.
For ArchiCAD and ETABS, data sharing through IFC 2x2 means that structural elements designed in ArchiCAD can be carried directly into ETABS for structural design tasks and analysis, then returned to ArchiCAD. Elements can be checked and designed not only for the usual load-bearing capability but also to meet strict standards of earthquake resistance, according to CSI.
“From now on, even in areas of seismic activity, an aesthetic Virtual Building design created in ArchiCAD will not remain just an architectural vision; its structural elements can also be shown to have proven seismic resistance,” says Bence Kovacs, Vice President of ArchiCAD Product Management from Graphisoft.
Both applications work with intelligent building structural elements, such as load-bearing walls, pillars, beams and slabs. Structural parts designed in ArchiCAD can be edited and analyzed in ETABS. All the changes are continuously and automatically updated when imported back into ArchiCAD, allowing design development to proceed among all the parties.
--RSN