In the software industry, Autodesk is a well-known brand for computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modelling (BIM). Among its variety of solutions, Navisworks stands out as a special project review tool. The purpose of this article is to examine in greater detail the benefits, features, and comparisons of Navisworks to other programmes like Revit.
What is Navisworks?
The project review software Navisworks was created by Autodesk. Its main function is to combine different kinds of 3D models made with various software programmes and open them together, making it simpler to check for conflicts and other potential issues in the future.
In 2007, Autodesk purchased the software it had originally been developed by, NavisWorks, a division of Lightwork Design. The Navisworks version that was regarded as the first "stable" release version, however, was the 2016 version.
Features of Navisworks
Navisworks is a flexible tool that excels when combined with different 3D design software and platforms like AutoCAD and Revit. It can combine and open different 3D models as well as review, run clash detection, measure different parameters, and do other things.
Through the use of a system of plugins, the capabilities of Navisworks can be increased, enabling the addition of even more specialised features like time simulation, interference detection, and photorealistic rendering.
Navisworks Packages and File Types
Numerous features, including clash detection, construction simulation, project scheduling, and others, are available through Navisworks. However, there might be an additional fee to use some of the more specialised features. Three versions of Navisworks are offered:
Navisworks Freedom: The simplest version, which allows users to view Navisworks' own NWD files. The fact that this version is completely free is its greatest benefit.
Navisworks Simulate: A balancing version. Although it is less expensive than the full version, some more sophisticated features, like native clash detection capability, are not included.
Navisworks Manage: This version of Navisworks that includes every feature available in the software. Although it is the most expensive version, it also has the most features.
Navisworks supports many different file types and has several proprietary file formats, such as .NWF, .NWD, and .NWC.
Benefits of Navisworks
The following are some advantages of using Navisworks for project review:
Simple model navigation, with a set search feature, customizable viewpoints, and more.
the capacity to simulate the construction process, making all participants aware of potential issues on-site.
Overall simplicity of use and access to Navisworks' own.There is no charge to file with NWD.
Ability to use specific settings and parameters in other projects thanks to Navisworks' exporting capabilities.
The ability to identify potential issues during the design phase thanks to the clash detection feature saves a significant amount of time for those involved in the construction process.
Navisworks' integration with Autodesk's BIM 360 Glue software makes the overall workflow much easier to control.
Navisworks and BIM
Navisworks is a perfect fit for any BIM project as it acts as a project review tool. It fits the definition of BIM in the textbook because it can combine various model types into a single project, acting as a single source of truth.
A useful tool for BIM projects, Navisworks also provides more advanced features like clash detection, scheduling, 3D animations, fly-throughs and overviews, compatibility with IFC models (ISO 19650 standard), and more.
The Synergy of Navisworks and Revit
Revit and Navisworks are frequently used together as complementary pieces of software. In contrast to Navisworks, which combines 3D models from different sources to look for potential problems, Revit is a 3D modelling software used to create 3D models for various purposes and provide documents.
These two pieces of software complement one another quite well. For instance, Navisworks can run clash detection, which makes the compatibility issues for Revit models appear much less frequent than they would otherwise. Navisworks cannot, however, create models and designs from scratch as can Revit. Even though their objectives are different, both of these software services are utilised in BIM projects.
Navisworks brings a unique set of capabilities to the table that can supplement and enhance the work done in Revit, despite the fact that Revit is a powerful tool for building detailed 3D models and producing related documentation.
Navisworks' superior capacity for handling substantial, intricate models is one of the main justifications for using it alongside Revit. Model creation and editing in Revit are excellent, but when models grow complex and large, performance issues may arise. The smooth navigation, review, and analysis of large 3D models is a feature of Navisworks, which makes it the perfect tool for managing complicated projects.
Navisworks' effective clash detection feature is a key factor in the combination of Navisworks and Revit. Even though Revit does have some clash detection features, they are not as comprehensive or user-friendly as those in Navisworks. With the aid of Navisworks, you are able to check for conflicts between various models and disciplines, which can help you find and fix problems before they turn into expensive ones on the construction site.
Project simulation and sequencing are two areas where Navisworks shines. A visual representation of the construction process over time is provided by simulating construction schedules. In order to visualise the project and spot potential scheduling problems, this can be a useful tool for project stakeholders.
To sum it up, the main strength of Navisworks, which is project review, is that it is a very useful piece of software for many different reasons. It can operate clash detection and construction simulation, work with all types of software, and make a variety of contributions to a BIM project. Whether you're an architect, engineer, or member of the construction industry, Navisworks offers a number of features that can improve project outcomes and streamline your workflow.
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