When working with BIM models in BIM Viewer, it is essential to know the navigation tools available to move around and view the model efficiently.
In this article, we will show you how to use the navigation tools in BIM Viewer, a powerful tool for viewing BIM models.
You’ll learn how to pan around the model, zoom to examine details, rotate to see the model from different angles, and switch views to get different perspectives.
If you are looking to improve your viewing experience in BIM Viewer, this article is for you!
Table of Contents
Displacement in the model
The first navigation tool you must master in BIM Viewer is scrolling. This allows you to move around the BIM model and explore different areas.
Here are the steps to navigate in BIM Viewer:
- In the BIM Viewer interface, locate the displacement tool. It is usually represented by a hand or arrow icon.
- Click and hold the left mouse button and drag the cursor to move around the model. You can also use the arrow controls on the keyboard to scroll horizontally or vertically.
- If you want to quickly navigate to a specific location, use the item list navigation feature. This feature allows you to view a list of elements in the model and click on one to have the view automatically focus on that element.
Excellent! Now you know how to navigate the model in BIM Viewer. Read on to learn more about navigation tools.
Zoom in to examine details
When working with BIM models, you will often need to examine specific details. For this, the zoom function in BIM Viewer is very useful. Here are the steps to zoom:
- Locate the zoom tool in the BIM Viewer interface. You’ll usually find zoom buttons with “+” and “-” symbols to zoom in or out.
- Click the “+” button to zoom in and examine smaller details. If you need to zoom out, click the “-” button.
- You can also zoom using the mouse wheel. Roll the wheel forward to zoom in and back to zoom out.
Remember that zoom is a great tool for examining details and working on specific areas of the model. Experiment with different zoom levels and find the one that best suits your needs!
Rotate to view the model from different angles
One of the benefits of working with BIM models in BIM Viewer is the ability to rotate the model and view it from different angles. This allows for a better understanding of the design and a more complete visualization. Next, I’ll show you how to rotate the model in BIM Viewer:
- Find the rotation tool in the BIM Viewer interface. It is usually represented by a gyroscope icon or an arrow in the shape of a circle.
- Click and hold the left mouse button and drag the cursor to rotate the model. As you move the cursor, the model will rotate accordingly.
- If you want to reset the original view, use the reset view function. This function allows you to return to the initial position and orientation of the model with a single click.
The ability to rotate the model gives you a more complete perspective and allows you to examine it from different angles. Feel free to experiment with different rotations to get the best display possible!
Switch views to get different perspectives
In addition to panning, zooming and rotating the model, BIM Viewer also allows you to switch views to get different perspectives. This is useful when you need to view the model from different angles or view it from a specific view, such as a plan view or an elevation view. Next, I will show you how to change views in BIM Viewer:
- Find the change view tool in the BIM Viewer interface. Typically, you’ll find a drop-down menu with different view options, such as “Plan,” “Elevation,” “Section,” or “Perspective.”
- Click the drop-down menu and select the view you want to explore. BIM Viewer will automatically adjust the model view to show the selected perspective.
- If you want to customize the view further, you can use the additional navigation options. For example, you can adjust the height of the camera, change the tilt angle, or adjust the viewing distance.
Switching views allows you to explore the model from different perspectives and gain a more complete understanding of its design.
Take advantage of this feature to analyze the model from different angles and make sure it meets your requirements.
Section analysis
The Section Analysis feature in BIM Viewer allows users to drill down into BIM models by cross-sectioning across multiple planes. This makes it easier to view and analyze internal components that would not otherwise be visible. Below is how to use this functionality and its subfunctions.
Access and Activation
- Home: Log in to BIM Viewer and open the desired model.
- Activate Tool: On the toolbar, select the Section Analysis icon.
Using Subfunctions
Add X Plane
- Function: Inserts a vertical plane that moves along the X axis.
- Operation: Click “Add X Plane”. A slider will appear that allows you to adjust the position of the plane in the model. Move the control to explore different cuts of the model.
Add Plane Y
- Function: Adds a vertical plane that moves along the Y axis.
- Operation: When selecting “Add Y Plane”, use the slider to move the plane and observe different sections.
Add Z Plane
- Function: Establishes a horizontal plane that moves along the Z axis.
- Operation: With “Add Z Plane” activated, adjust the plane to cut the model horizontally, allowing a view from above or below.
Add Box
- Function: Defines a specific volume in the shape of a cube or rectangle within the model.
- Operation: Select “Add Box” and use the controls to specify the location and dimensions of the box. This approach is useful for focusing on a particular area.
Visualization and Analysis
- Manipulation: With the planes defined, explore the sections by adjusting the view with rotate, zoom and scroll tools.
- Additional Tools: Use tools like measurement and annotation for more detailed analysis.
Additional tips for efficient navigation in BIM Viewer
In addition to mastering the basic navigation tools in BIM Viewer, here are some additional tips for efficient navigation and a better viewing experience:
- Use keyboard shortcuts: BIM Viewer offers a series of keyboard shortcuts that allow you to quickly perform navigation actions. For example, you can use the arrow keys to scroll, the mouse wheel to zoom, and the function keys to change views. Get familiar with these shortcuts to speed up your workflow.
- Take advantage of viewing options: BIM Viewer typically offers additional viewing options, such as the ability to hide or show certain model elements, change the color scheme, or apply specific filters. Experiment with these options to customize the display to your needs.
- Use view bookmarks: If there are specific views in the model that you need to access frequently, you can use the view bookmarks feature. This feature allows you to save and quickly access predefined views of the model, making it easier to navigate and speed up your work.
- Explore advanced navigation options: BIM Viewer can offer advanced navigation options, such as panorama mode navigation or flight mode navigation. These features allow you to move around the model more dynamically and fluidly. Research and experiment with these options to discover new ways to navigate your BIM models.
With these tips, you’ll be prepared to make the most of the navigation tools in BIM Viewer and optimize your BIM model viewing experience.
Remember to practice and experiment to familiarize yourself with the different features and discover which navigation approach works best for you.
Enjoy exploring and viewing your BIM models with BIM Viewer!