MEP Toolbox

The MEP Toolbox provides a dedicated set of tools to create components of the various MEP systems:

• Straight segments of HVAC ducts, pipes and electrical cable trays
• Transitions, junctions, in-line elements to connect MEP components with each other
• Equipment and terminals for automatic connection at the intake and the output locations of the MEP systems.

MEP elements are parametric for easy configuration of custom dimensions.

MEP Library

The Graphisoft MEP Modeler ships with a rich MEP specific object library. This library contains specially configured MEP elements that include smart connection points for automatic connection during routing of MEP systems. Upon installation of the MEP Modeler, relevant standard ArchiCAD objects will be extended with smart connection points as well as specific MEP related parameters.

MEP Systems

The Graphisoft MEP Modeler uses MEP systems to represent a group of MEP elements that are handled together, making the creation and editing of MEP elements much more efficient and consistent. MEP systems, such as ducts, pipes and cable trays control certain attributes of elements belonging to the same system. System level attributes such as contour pens, system materials and centerlines define the look of entire systems, helping with identification. When new elements are added to an existing MEP system, they will automatically take on the appropriate connection parameters such as shape and diameter as well as width and height values.

Placing MEP elements

One of the basic methods of creating the desired mechanical systems is by placing individual duct, pipe or trays MEP elements one at a time. With this method, connections are built up one-by-one and element positions are adjusted individually at the time of placement. This is a very flexible "LEGO®" type workflow where you have full control over the type, allocation and parameters of placed elements.

Smart MEP Routing

MEP systems can be created with ease using the MEP Routing function. Individual MEP elements are placed automatically along the defined route based upon certain preset rules. Routing is available in the floor plan and the 3D window. ArchiCAD's smart cursor and guide lines enable designers to create connected MEP elements with a series of mouse-clicks from scratch, quickly and easily. The 3D route of the system and the individual elements can be modified at any time.

Editing MEP elements

A powerful set of graphical editing aids to modify the geometry of individual MEP elements of MEP systems is provided. Editing a part of an MEP system will automatically change connected elements. New connector elements may be also be added to the system.

Creating custom MEP elements

Custom MEP elements using standard ArchiCAD tools such as Walls, Slabs and GDL Objects including any MEP elements may be created and saved. These custom library parts will be automatically added to the current MEP library. They may be placed into the project or may later be re-used in other projects. Custom created MEP elements have the same smart behavior as the standard MEP library parts shipped with the MEP Modeler.

Automatic Collision Detection

This capability provides a unique, fully automated routine to identify and visualize conflicts between the architectural design and the MEP network. Collision detection of the MEP system against the building structure ensures fast and precise feedback for the architect and streamlines coordination with the building engineering team.

MEP Collision Detection identifies the exact location of discrepancies on the floor plans and the 3D views. All collision entries are automatically added to ArchiCAD's Mark-Up Palette, providing easy identification. Designers can quickly evaluate these entries one-by-one and identify their location in the design with a single click. Discussions can be conducted between the members of the extended design team to evaluate alternative solutions, using ArchiCAD's Mark-Up tools.

Collaboration with Engineers

In addition to traditional 2D workflows, MEP systems can be directly imported into ArchiCAD from Autodesk AutoCAD MEP 2008 and 2009 applications. All AutoCAD MEP systems are identified and automatically converted to native ArchiCAD MEP elements. The ArchiCAD Connection plug-in can be installed free with the Autodesk AutoCAD MEP 2008 and 2009 applications. Engineers using AutoCAD MEP can then export their MEP design using the ArchiCAD Connection plug-in, and architects using ArchiCAD can import the MEP design database as smart ArchiCAD MEP elements.

Sharing and Visualizing the MEP Model

ArchiCAD's extensive export capabilities enable designers to output files in different modeling formats including the industry standard IFC 2x3 format for coordination using external applications.

The ability to visualize MEP systems in the complete building environment improves communication between architects, engineers and contractors. Visualization can be done within ArchiCAD using color codes for the various mechanical systems in combination with wireframe representation of the architectural structures. ArchiCAD's powerful rendering capabilities can be used to create photo-realistic visualizations of systems for the different trades.