Model
Create and edit multiple pipe runs, drainage layouts and ventilation systems directly in 3D.
LUACAD / PRODUCT PREVIEW
Intelligent 3D design for building services and piping.
LuaCAD is a CAD add-on being developed to simplify the modelling of piping, drainage and ventilation systems. Its focus is on rule-based 3D generation, intelligent connections and consistent technical documentation.
LuaCAD — Sneak Peek
Product demonstrationAn initial view of the modelling environment and selected workflows.External video hosted by Jumpshare
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
A connected workflow, from model to output.
LuaCAD is designed around the practical workflows of technical building services and industrial piping. Instead of treating geometry, component data and documentation as separate tasks, it brings them together within one CAD-based process.
Automate
Apply rules to geometry, connections and routing to reduce repetitive manual steps.
Document
Generate isometrics, annotations, bills of materials and material lists from model information.
FUNCTIONAL SCOPE
Core capabilities
The following areas describe LuaCAD's functional scope and the workflows illustrated or outlined in the product preview.
Multi-line 3D modelling
Create multiple piping runs together, rather than placing each line individually. Routes remain editable within the 3D environment.
Intelligent connections and routing
Connect pipes and equipment automatically, with rule-based fittings and assistance in finding suitable routes between connections.
Drainage systems with slope
Model drainage networks in 3D while accounting for required slopes, elevation changes and connection geometry.
3D ventilation ducts and pipes
Plan ductwork and pipework spatially, including transitions and connections within the building model.
Automatic piping isometrics
Derive isometric drawings from model data for piping design and fabrication workflows, including use cases commonly addressed by plant-design software.
Component and equipment libraries
Use a library of more than 1,000 included valves and fittings, or define custom equipment to suit a specific project.
Manufacturer-specific components
Work with component families and product data from manufacturers such as Geberit, Viega and GF JRG.
Project setup and editing
Create and manage projects, organise relevant design information and continue editing existing models.
IFC import and export
Exchange IFC models with their associated object information to support coordination with other disciplines.
Annotations and material lists
Produce labels, component schedules, bills of materials and material lists from the model at the press of a button.
TECHNICAL APPROACH
Intelligence behind the geometry.
The emphasis is not simply on drawing 3D objects. LuaCAD aims to use information and defined rules to support the connections, geometry and documentation that follow.
Rule-based generation
Model elements can be created in accordance with parameters such as component dimensions, connection types and system requirements.
Route finding
Routing assistance evaluates connection points and possible paths, helping reduce the number of manual modelling operations.
Connected component data
Object properties provide a basis for documentation, quantity extraction, IFC exchange and further model processing.
Automated outputs
Isometrics, annotations, component schedules and material lists can be derived from the same underlying design.
WORKFLOW
A typical project sequence
Create the project
Structure project information and use the building model as the design context.
Model the systems
Create piping and ductwork, assign components and define spatial routes.
Apply design rules
Use automated connections and routing logic while refining the 3D model.
Export information
Generate isometrics, labels, IFC data and material quantities from the project.