1. LVL AS A CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL 1.11 DESIGN TOOLS LVL structures are designed with similar computer-aided design tools to other load-bearing construction materials. Some structural calculation programs that support Eurocode compliant design also include LVL product libraries, but usually the user needs to enter the LVL product-specific properties into the software database. Examples of structural calculation software are Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis, Dlubal RF Timber, Frilo HO11+ and Mitek Roofcon/Trusscon. Some of their design results, e.g. support reaction capacity, however need to be verified manually as they do not include all of the LVL-specific parameters for EN 1995 (Eurocode 5). The definition of LVL strength classes in product standard EN 14374 will guide software development in the future. LVL manufacturers are also specifying the properties of their product brands individually and also providing tailored calculation software, such as Finnwood® and Calculatis®. For basic structural drawings 2D design tools such as Autodesk AutoCad are commonly used. More detailed LVL component information can be utilized with 3D building information modelling (BIM). In addition to the planning phase of the project, BIM supports the whole building process from cost and construction management to facility operation and the whole life cycle of the building. LVL suppliers have created BIM libraries of LVL components for the Autodesk Revit, Archicad, Vertex BD, HSB Cad, Cad Works and Trimble SketchUp design software environments, among others. The libraries are distributed, for example, via manufacturers’ websites or portal program tools such as ProdLib 13, 14. Design software can create steering files for CNC machines used for cutting LVL components (CAM) to improve the efficiency of the whole manufacturing process. HSBCad and Vertex BD software’s, for instance, have a strong position in integrated chain support, from design to off-site manufacture. The IFC file transfer formats 2x3 and ifc4 support some basic properties of engineered wood products and the next generation formats will take these better into account. For example, due to the orthotropic properties of the products it is important to be able to accurately define their orientation (lengthwise, edgewise, flatwise parallel to surface veneer and flat across the surface veneer) in the IFC objects. Figure 1.63. Design software for LVL structures: Calculatis by Stora Enso, Finnwood by Metsä Wood and portal of BIM objects by ProdLib. LVL Handbook Europe 43
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