by
Lawrence Hooker, Excitech
I
recently attended Autodesk’s main UK learning event, Autodesk University London
at Tobacco Dock in London’s East End. The two days were filled with industry presentations,
hands-on-labs and plenty of opportunities to network and connect with
like-minded individuals.The general theme for most of the event was the increasing use of automation and convergence of the design, manufacture and construction industries. One of the highlights was listening to Jaimie Johnston of Bryden Wood discussing how they have used software technologies such as AutodeskDynamo to automate the design and installation of highly complex panels for the Crossrail project.
I was lucky enough to be able to present a class on the automation of trackside structures using Autodesk Revit, Civil 3D and Dynamo with a little Infraworks and Recap for as-built structures.
During the presentation, we explored the automated design of rail platform structures and looked at parameters and data to assist with the setting out of the precast components for the construction phase. The workflow below shows how you can capture an existing platform and then use the Autodesk AEC Collection to process and index the scan data, extract features using Autodesk Infraworks and then utilise Autodesk Dynamo, Civil 3D and Revit to produce detailed design and construction drawings.
Most of the structures are related to the centreline of the rail track and, as such, can be offset and automated with Dynamo. For example, the platform has a precise offset and level from the rail that follows the cant and vertical profile. This very fact makes it extremely efficient to place the elements with Dynamo, especially when the track is on a curved alignment.
Explore Autodesk's AEC Collection here
A recording of this AU London presentation is available here.
