The user first defines various project parameters, such as the project name, site name, database format and the layout of tables in the database1. The user has many options from here.
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Collision detection is extensively supported in both static and dynamic modes. Static collision detection is useful for finding problems in the 3D model like piping and ductwork that intersect or violate clearance settings, while dynamic detection can review motion paths for equipment like cranes that need room for movement. A log file records the details of each collision in the project database, while the collision itself is highlighted in a user-defined color and can even be assigned different .WAV sound files corresponding to various collision types. The log file records the collisions in sequence, and a snapshot option permits an image of each highlighted collision to be saved for later review. All of the highlighted collisions can also be displayed simultaneously in the current Main view.
Annotations come in four types. Tags allow the user to attach notes to the model and are designed to convey information from the engineer to the contractor. Data Annotations support the attachment of external files to items in the model using Windows Explorer's "drag-and-drop" method. Double-clicking the data annotation icon will display the attached file's contents, whether it be a spreadsheet, text file, or HTML web page. The Get External Data command also permits the user to manage these associations with the Microsoft Jet Database engine used by Microsoft Access. The Measurement command permits objects and groups of objects to be dimensioned either between surfaces or user-defined snap lock points.
NetMeeting is a function that allows users to set up project conferences between computers. Two modes are available. The default, Application Sharing Mode, uses a single workstation to drive the application. This can be an advantage if one workstation has superior graphics capabilities, but it can cause the response of the hosting computer to become sluggish. The alternative, Collaboration Mode, uses the display drivers on each participating workstation, which may degrade the display of users with superior graphics equipment. During a collaboration session, one person at a time is the "driver," while the "passengers" watch everything from cursor movements to changes in views, tags, measurements and NetMeeting session controls.
The ScheduleReview options enable the user to associate the 3D project model with project planning software in order to better visualize and communicate construction sequencing. Different parts of the model can be linked with specific tasks in the planning chart for graphical review. For instance, a query command can search the model for elements that fall within the critical path defined in a Primavera CPM schedule, and highlight the affected project elements.
1 One of the enhancements to Version 4.2 is compatibility with Access 2000, although the progra
m will select Access 97 by default to keep the project file size significantly lower.
