With the introduction of a dynamic, content-rich Revit file library for 3-D analysis, product information and Building Information Modeling (BIM) applications, Hunter Douglas Ceilings is making it easier for architects and contractors to configure ceilings products for information into multiple stages of project development.
“Our objective is to have the most comprehensive BIM contribution package in the metal ceiling business for owners, architects, contractors, constructors and associated trades,” said Ron Rice, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Hunter Douglas Ceilings. “Our Revit file library is available 24/7 at any point in the course of the project ¬– from initial pre-planning and schematics to trade coordination and construction analysis to final turnover to the owner.”
Continued Rice, “Real-life examples show that the interior ceiling is a complex plane given the number of services being carried through the plenum and penetrating the ceiling plane itself. On the exterior, challenges often lie around the ceiling being engineered with substructure to absorb appropriate wind design pressures. We enable a more efficient and comprehensive platform for information exchange and building processes.”
In addition to component object files, the company’s new Revit library also delivers product files as an assembly, which allows architects and contractors to place a complete configuration into their model. Through a collaborative effort with industry leader SmartBIM, a leading provider of BIM content creation, Hunter Douglas allows all parties to use its Revit files on any phase, from initial proposals to final construction plans, as well as post-installation service documentation.
Hunter Douglas is also helping contractors improve efficiency and cost savings throughout the building cycle. “Of the projects I model, many involve specialty ceiling applications,” said Lisa Schultz, VDC (Virtual Design & Construction) Coordinator at Ohio-based OCP Contractors. “Because many companies were not offering BIM support, I had to invest tremendous amounts of time into designing these files to be able to complete the model. The ability to download an entire assembly or kit of parts at any point makes the process much more navigable.”
“The goal was to develop rich BIM content for Hunter Douglas ceiling products that makes it easier for their customers to configure and incorporate in their plans and specify,” said Andrew Price, Senior Project Coordinator for SmartBIM. “The company is now the first, and so far only, ceiling manufacturer to deliver Revit’s models specifically designed for each phase of the design process.”
“This system allows all groups – MEP, security, audio, etc – to work together, ensuring that the model is ready for field construction sooner,” said Paul Godwin, Central Estimating Manager for Marek Construction. “The modeling process is streamlined because Hunter Douglas offers complete assembly files rather than just individual files. By cutting steps out of the process, Hunter Douglas is making a more user-friendly, cost-effective product for the building owner.”
The BIM library with REVIT files for all Hunter Douglas Ceilings products is categorized and cataloged by SmartBIM and available for use at www.hunterdouglasceilings.com, www.metalceilingsbim.com, SmartBIM’s content library, and the Autodesk Seek homepage.