Timber Structure Modelling

We prepare 3D models and workshop and assembly documentation for timber frame and prefabricated timber structures.

Based on the information provided by the client, we create detailed models of walls, floors, roofs and other elements required for prefabrication, production and assembly.

3D Modelling • Workshop Documentation • CNC Data • CAD Automation

From Documentation to a Detailed 3D Model

The starting point may include:

• architectural documentation;

• structural solutions and design guidelines;

• technical drawings;

• a CAD or IFC model;

• an architectural massing model;

• layer build-ups and production requirements;

• an existing model requiring further development.

We model structural elements with their dimensions, position, orientation and agreed machining geometry.

Depending on the project, the model may include:

• timber frame and prefabricated walls;

• floor and roof structures;

• studs, beams, bottom plates, top plates and intermediate members;

• headers and strengthening elements;

• plates and sheathing;

• window and door openings;

• battens, counter-battens and agreed layers of prefabricated elements;

• division into groups, assemblies and installation elements;

• production and assembly marks.

Missing information and matters requiring a design decision are discussed with the client before being included in the model.

Models in Cadwork or Tekla Structures

Based on the information provided by the client, we create timber structure models in Cadwork or Tekla® Structures.

The CAD environment and scope of development are selected according to the expected result, the standards of the production facility and the intended use of the model.

The model may be prepared for:

• further technical development;

• division into prefabricated elements;

• preparation of workshop drawings;

• preparation of assembly drawings;

• material schedules and element lists;

• production data development;

• preparation of data for CNC machining.

The software names are used solely to identify the CAD environments in which the services are performed.

Rebuilding a Model in Another CAD Environment

Based on an existing model and other project information provided by the client, we can rebuild timber structure elements in another agreed CAD environment.

The model reconstruction may include:

• beams, plates and panels;

• element position and orientation;

• dimensions and material data;

• marks and identifiers;

• element grouping and assembly creation;

• selected cuts and cutting planes;

• geometry of custom profiles.

Where the source data and the functions of the target software allow it, elements are rebuilt as editable model objects that can be further developed and used to prepare documentation.

For this work, we use our own internal tools that support data processing and geometry reconstruction.

The possibilities and scope of the reconstruction are determined after reviewing the source files. We identify elements requiring additional work and determine how the result will be checked. Not every property of the source model has a direct equivalent in another CAD environment.

Prefab Element Development

We divide the structure into prefabricated walls, floors, roofs and other assembly elements.

The scope may include:

• division of the structure into prefabricated elements;

• arrangement of timber frame members;

• representation of agreed layer build-ups;

• development of window and door openings;

• arrangement of sheathing, battens and counter-battens;

• creation of groups and assemblies;

• element numbering;

• production and assembly marks;

• preparation of the model for drawings and schedules.

The division into prefabricated elements, layer build-ups, transport dimensions and level of detail are agreed with the client before the relevant stage of work begins.

Workshop and Assembly Documentation

Based on the 3D model, we prepare documentation within the scope agreed with the client.

The documentation may include:

• workshop drawings of individual elements;

• drawings of prefabricated walls, floors and roofs;

• structural plans and sections;

• assembly drawings and diagrams;

• representation of connections based on the solutions provided by the client;

• production and assembly marks;

• material schedules;

• element lists and prefabricated component schedules.

The drawing layout, element marking system and level of detail are adapted to the agreed standards of the prefabrication plant.

CNC Data Preparation

We prepare models and data for CNC machining of timber elements using agreed machine configurations.

Before starting the work, we determine:

• the machine type and configuration;

• the supported data format;

• the required machining operations;

• the available export settings;

• the procedure for checking files before production.

The possibility of preparing data for a specific machine is assessed on the basis of the technical information provided by the client.

CAD Automation

We use our own scripts and internal tools to support repetitive modelling and data preparation tasks.

Automation may support:

• creation and processing of model elements;

• reconstruction of geometry;

• grouping of elements and creation of assemblies;

• organisation of marks and properties;

• development of selected machining operations;

• agreed checks of model data and geometry;

• preparation of schedules, reports and data exports.

The available automation options depend on the type of task, the quality of the source data and the functions of the software being used.

Documentation Adapted to Production

The scope of the work is adapted to the technology and workflow of the prefabrication plant.

We can prepare:

• a 3D structural model;

• a model divided into prefabricated elements;

• workshop and assembly documentation;

• material and element schedules;

• data required for further production preparation;

• data for CNC machining within the agreed scope.

Each assignment is quoted on the basis of the supplied information, expected result and required level of detail.

What Types of Structures Do We Work On?

We prepare models and documentation for:

• single-family houses;

• timber frame buildings;

• prefabricated timber structures;

• building extensions, roof extensions and additional storeys;

• roof structures;

• timber modules;

• small commercial and utility buildings;

• canopies, garden structures and other timber structures.

We can provide the complete agreed scope or support the client’s team during a selected stage of modelling or documentation.

Scope of Responsibility

We work on the basis of the documentation, structural solutions and production requirements provided by the client.

Our modelling and workshop documentation services do not include structural calculations. They do not replace a structural design, building permit documentation or checks required from a qualified structural engineer.

Solutions requiring a decision from a qualified designer or structural engineer must be approved before the model or documentation is used for production and construction.

A Project Adapted to Your Process

Every prefabrication plant follows its own rules for modelling, element marking and document preparation.

For this reason, the scope of models, drawings, schedules, production data and automation is agreed individually for each project.

Send us your documentation, CAD model or a description of your requirements. We will review the available information and determine the required input data, scope of work, schedule and quotation.

Request a quotation

Independence and trademark information

PREFABHOLZ is an independent service provider. PREFABHOLZ is not affiliated with, sponsored by, authorised by or endorsed by the manufacturers of the software mentioned on this website.

Software product names are used solely to identify the CAD environments in which the services are performed. Tekla is a registered trademark of Trimble Finland. Cadwork and related marks remain the property of their respective owners.