IDEA Architectural

Last updated
IDEA Architecture
Developer(s) 4M
Stable release
v14 / 2014
Operating system Windows
Type CAD, Building Information Modeling
Website 4M website

IDEA Architecture (previously known as IDEA Architectural) is a BIM CAD software for architects and designers, built on top of IntelliCAD by 4M Software company. IDEA's BIM structure, provides a smart model shaping and high design accuracy, directly applied to the real 3D building model. All the building elements (i.e. walls, openings, slabs, beams, roofs, stairs etc.) are intelligent objects carrying their own attributes. They can be freely reshaped through parametric dialogs and expert algorithms, therefore providing a user-friendly modeling environment. Architectural design is further facilitated by high-quality photorealism, smooth 3D/4D walkthrough and other capabilities such as the bill of materials, the smart topographical component, the seamless integration between IDEA and the other vertical software applications of the 4M Building Design Suite (i.e. STRAD Structural and FINE MEP).

Computer-aided design constructing a product by means of computer

Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computers to aid in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design. CAD software is used to increase the productivity of the designer, improve the quality of design, improve communications through documentation, and to create a database for manufacturing. CAD output is often in the form of electronic files for print, machining, or other manufacturing operations. The term CADD is also used.

IntelliCAD is a CAD-software programming toolkit and API published by the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium ("ITC"). IntelliCAD aims to emulate the basic interface and functions of AutoCAD. Unlike typical CAD programs, ITC IntelliCAD is not sold directly to end users. ITC IntelliCAD is exclusively licensed to Consortium members who pay fees in exchange for permission and guidance to include IntelliCAD technology in final OEM "IntelliCAD" products with their own end user license agreements. The ITC has nearly 50 members.

FINE MEP is a BIM CAD software tool for Building services engineering design, built on top of IntelliCAD. It provides full IFC support, according to the 2x3 IFC Standard. FINE BIM structure, enables a smart model shaping and high design accuracy, directly applied to the real 3D building model and its building services. Not only the building elements, but also the components of the mechanical/electrical installations themselves are all intelligent objects carrying their own attributes and interacting among each other. MEP design is supported by specific CAD commands and further facilitated through sophisticated recognition and validation algorithms, providing a user-friendly modeling environment.

IDEA Architecture is also renown to offer "BIM capabilities in combination with AutoCAD-like functionality and DWG compatibility" [1] as well as a "full IFC compatibility", [2] two features which facilitate an easy transition for the CAD users and the BIM designers.

See also

This is an overview of notable viewers for files, that are produced by Computer aided design (CAD), Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and Computer-aided engineering (CAE) applications.

References