SAPFIR-Generator Parametric modeller

Flexible tool in the BIM chain. It enables the user to model (parametrically) buildings and structures of arbitrary shape. This module presents advanced technologies for generating models of structures. This is graphic editor for algorithms (sequence of actions); this editor applies modelling tools available in LIRA-CAD.

3D model of the bridge generated in SAPFIR with nodes
3D model of the bridge generated in SAPFIR with nodes

This module provides the ready 3D model that consists of basic objects presented in LIRA-CAD program: columns, beams, walls, slabs, piles, trusses, surfaces, loads, boundary conditions, etc. Generator together with LIRA-CAD enables us to use precise parametric test over the model and then export it to LIRA-FEM for further analysis.

3D model of watchtower generated in SAPFIR with nodes
3D model of watchtower generated in SAPFIR with nodes

So, what is visual programming? This is the way to create an algorithm by managing graphical objects rather than by writing text. That is, to work with such system there is no need to have programming skills or to be familiar with the structure of program code.

Graphical objects are presented in Generator as nodes and links between them. Nodes are displayed as rectangles and may be of two types: nodes that save the data and nodes that carry out actions. Data between nodes is transferred with links.

The user interface of Generator consists of ribbon and working area – canvas where graphic sequence of actions is generated. The nodes' palette is divided into tabs by thematic focus: models, geometry, transformations, parameters and services.

Nodes in SAPFIR
Nodes in SAPFIR

Geometry that is generated with different Generator nodes will be displayed in the LIRA-CAD graphic window.

Geometric primitives available in LIRA-CAD (points, lines, surfaces) may be used as the input data for generating such graphical algorithms.

3D model of building generated in SAPFIR with nodes
3D model of building generated in SAPFIR with nodes

Generator is a flexible tool in the BIM chain. Information from other CAD programs may be used as input data in Generator, for example:

  • 3D shapes (surfaces) in *.obj format;
  • geometric primitives (points, lines, polylines, contours) in *.dxf format.

When you modify the input data in other CAD programs (edit the surface shape or *.dxf file), the model in Generator is automatically updated.

3D model of building generated in SAPFIR with nodes and *.dxf file
3D model of building generated in SAPFIR with nodes and *.dxf file

The generated script (set of nodes) may be saved to the library in order to use it later.

For advanced users, in SAPFIR-Generator there is a script editor that enables you to generate your own nodes and write your own code for them.

3D model of footbridge Arganzuela generated in SAPFIR with nodes
3D model of footbridge Arganzuela generated in SAPFIR with nodes