Shoreline Parametrics

Shoreline Parametrics
Why 3D?

A custom three dimensional model will always take longer to generate than a 2D one. So, where is the justification?

If you are in the business of custom building, basically every job is a prototype, so ask yourself these questions:

Is the geometry difficult to define?

Can you be confident that when laid out on paper or plywood, that you can build from this?

Can you communicate all aspects without the need for a perspective or isometric view?

Is this a keystone element in the project? (Are the schedules for other trades relying on this?)

Can the project benefit from reduced risk of design and fabrication oversights?

We have all looked at projects in hindsight, knowing a second opportinity would be invaluable. A computer model makes that "virtually" possible, because the 3D computer model is really that first prototype, so the "second chance" is actually possible. You enter the project with increased confidence and knowledge, resulting in a smoother and more efficient process.

Here's why

Unlike a 2D layout which is just layout lines, a 3D computer model (or "solid model"), is an assembly, that is comprised of parts with volume and mass. These assemblies can be identical to their real life counterparts.

A simple example could be a post and beam kiosk:

*Please note, before continuing, every example will offer several viewing options. "Static mode" is a simple image. "Interactive mode" (recommended) enables the viewer to zoom, rotate and animate the model. If viewing this website with a computer using (Windows 98 or later) and Internet Explorer 5.0 (or later), please take the time to download the eDrawings application below.

Example: Post & Beam Kiosk (Interactive Mode) 447k

Example: Post & Beam Kiosk (Static Mode) 144k

In the example above, The Post and Beam Kiosk truly demonstrates of the benefits of 3D modeling. In this particular project, the schedule was inflexible, the materials were expensive and they required 3 months to arrive with no extra ordered. Simultaneously, large stainless steel brackets needed to be fabricated and when complete, all steel and wood parts were delivered onsite ready for assembly, with no cutting or fitting required. To acheive this:

First, a simple 2D plan and elevation is laid out

Then

Computer modeled hardware, posts and beams are generated and then assembled
A shop drawing is automatically generated from the assembly model

This enabled the joinery to be viewed, exploded, adjusted parts could be isolated, even object weights determined for planning purposes. And come fabrication, the three dimensional model greatly improved the communication to the actual builder. Here again, confidence was vastly improved, so the focus was only on the task at hand.

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