Timber Structure Modelling and CAD Automation

PREFABHOLZ supports timber construction companies, prefabrication plants and engineering offices with 3D modelling, prefab element development, workshop and assembly documentation, and CNC data preparation.

We create models based on the documentation provided by the client or rebuild elements of existing models in an agreed CAD environment. The scope of the work is adapted to the production technology and the client’s requirements.

Timber Structure Modelling

Based on architectural documentation, structural solutions, CAD or IFC models and client guidelines, we prepare 3D models for prefabrication and assembly.

The scope of work may include:

  • timber frame and modular structures;

  • prefabricated walls, floors and roofs;

  • roof extensions, building extensions and additional storeys;

  • small timber buildings;

  • canopies and other timber structures.

The models represent the agreed position, dimensions and materials of elements, openings and machining geometry. We can also prepare element groups and assemblies, numbering and marks required for further documentation.

If the source information is incomplete, we identify and discuss the missing data before developing the relevant part of the model.

Prefab Element Development

We prepare the division of the structure into prefabricated elements and create detailed models of walls, floors and roofs. We take into account the production requirements, transport dimensions and planned assembly sequence provided by the client.

The scope may include:

  • division into wall, floor and roof elements;

  • arrangement of studs, bottom plates, top plates, intermediate members and headers in accordance with the supplied structural solutions;

  • development of window and door openings;

  • arrangement of sheathing, battens and counter-battens;

  • representation of the agreed layers of each prefabricated element;

  • element numbering and production marks;

  • preparation of the model for drawings, schedules and CNC data.

The division into prefabricated elements, layer build-ups and scope of documentation are agreed with the client before the work begins.

We can develop an individual project or support a design department during selected stages of prefabrication preparation.

Rebuilding Models in Another CAD Environment

Based on source files and project information provided by the client, we rebuild timber structure elements in Cadwork or Tekla® Structures.

Where the source data and technical possibilities allow it, we create editable model objects that can be further developed in the agreed CAD environment.

The scope of work 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.

The possibilities and scope of the model reconstruction are assessed after reviewing the source files. We identify which elements require additional work and determine how the result will be checked.

Not every property or function of the source model has a direct equivalent in another CAD system. The extent to which data and editability can be retained is determined separately for each assignment.

CAD Automation

When carrying out assignments, we use our own scripts and internal tools to support repetitive modelling and data-processing tasks.

Automation may support:

  • creation and processing of model elements;

  • reconstruction of geometry from source data;

  • grouping of elements and creation of assemblies;

  • organisation of marks and properties;

  • agreed checks of model data and geometry;

  • development of selected machining operations;

  • preparation of schedules, reports and data exports.

The aim is to reduce repetitive manual work and improve the consistency of the prepared data. Automation possibilities are assessed on the basis of the specific task, available data and software functionality.

The internal tools used to perform our services are not supplied or licensed to clients as separate software products.

Workshop and Assembly Documentation

Based on the 3D model, we prepare drawings and schedules required for the production and assembly of the timber structure.

The documentation may include:

  • workshop drawings of individual elements;

  • drawings of prefabricated walls, floors and roofs;

  • assembly drawings and diagrams;

  • connection details based on the structural solutions provided by the client;

  • production and assembly marks;

  • material and element schedules;

  • agreed dimensional and marking schedules for transport planning.

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

CNC Data Preparation

We prepare models and data for CNC machining of timber elements.

Before starting the work, we determine:

  • the machine type and configuration;

  • the supported data format;

  • the required machining operations;

  • the available export options and 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.

The agreed scope may also include corrections resulting from a test export and verification of the exported data.

Scope of the Technical Work

Our work is based on the documentation, structural solutions and agreed 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.

Any matters requiring a design decision or additional information are discussed with the client before being included in the model or documentation.

Support for Design and CAD/CAM Departments

We work with:

  • manufacturers of timber houses and timber structures;

  • prefabrication plants;

  • engineering and design offices;

  • design and CAD/CAM departments;

  • contractors specialising in roofs, roof extensions, additional storeys and modular structures;

  • companies using CNC machinery.

We can provide an agreed package consisting of a model, documentation and schedules, or carry out selected tasks within a project managed by the client’s team.

Remote Cooperation

We work with clients in the Netherlands, Poland and other European countries. Communication and document exchange are adapted to the organisation of each project.

We use agreed tools for online meetings, file transfer and remote cooperation. Work within the client’s digital environment is carried out after the access conditions and rules for the use of data and software have been established.

Request a Quotation

Do you need a 3D model, prefab element development, workshop documentation, CNC data or reconstruction of a model in another CAD environment?

Send us a description of the assignment and the files that can be made available for the work. Please specify the expected result, required file formats and planned deadline.

We will review the available information and agree on the required source data, scope of work, schedule and quotation.

Send an enquiry

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.

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