Computer based tools in the HVAC design process. Interface and data transfer between modeling in Revit and supporting draw- and simulation tools (especially with focus on handling geometries and information- /data transfer)
Abstract: The purpose with the thesis is to examine the link between modeling in Revit with otherdrawing programs and simulation tools and to examine the possibilities and limitations fortransferring data between the different program modules, i.e. which data transfer between theprograms is possible. Revit MEP 2011 will be in focus and along with the purpose above asub-purpose will be to explore and evaluate the internal features of Revit MEP 2011 and bythis Revit MEP will be evaluated to which extent it can benefit to rationalize the HVACdesign process.In order to approach the concept of BIM there is a need to gather information from third partysoftware’s. The ideal scenario is that this information can be utilized by Revit, in such wayinformation will not have to be re-defined repetitiously throughout the building process.Revit is a relatively new program which can be compared to AutoCad, in the case for Revitthough, the manufacturer claims that the program should be more user-friendly in the matterof utilizing previously defined information. Based on this, the possibilities are good for theactors in the building industry to make their operation more effective, not only regarding timeand economy but also the easement in communication between different actors in the process.The result of the analysis is that at the present date there are few third party software’s that areintegrated with Revit MEP on a two-way basis. The model created in Revit can be exported tomost software’s in some way, but in most cases this is where the loop of information stops.This means that if the original Revit model is revised then a new export has to be performed.Some software’s have a tight integration with Revit though, such as the Autodesk SolarRadiation Technology Preview. This is a good example of how information exchange andupdate should run, with information exchange on a two-way basis and where the revisedmodel also is updated in the external software, although the actual usage of the software canbe questioned.Regarding Revit MEP 2011 as a tool in the HVAC design process, the analyze shows that itperforms well or more than well on most areas except for simulations and calculations of theenergy. The calculation method is simplified and the calculation procedure is hidden for theII CHALMERS Civil and Environmental Engineering, Master’s Thesis 2011:01user. This combination reduces the use of Revit MEP 2011 as a tool for the performance ofsimulations and calculations regarding energy, which constitutes a significant part of theHVAC design process. Nonetheless, the fact that MagiCad is integrated in Revit MEP as an “add-in” makes it a powerful tool in the HVAC design process as all the features of MagiCad is possessed in combination with the BIM approached mode of operation that Revit enables.
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