13 March 2015
Wicona Launches New Software Tool to Support Façade Design
Aluminium façade specialist, Wicona, has developed a new software tool to radically reduce the time required for the production of 2D and 3D drawings and 3D renders.
WIC3D is a digital drawing platform which is useful from the earliest stages of schematic design, allowing designers to be both creative and productive, and explore alternative façade solutions. It supports the description, analysis and visualisation of architecture and gives project stakeholders the opportunity to assess the impact of different façade choices and changes.
The new easy-to-use tool enables architects, engineers and fabricators to sketch out initial design concepts and ideas, quickly and effectively, and incorporate Wicona's highly engineered curtain walling, window, door and solar shading systems.
Developed in conjunction with leading architects, WIC3D is user-friendly modelling software that is an invaluable tool for designing, visualising, documenting, and communicating façade solutions.
WIC3D can produce true-to-scale drawings, whilst improving accuracy and saving time. The façade designs can be viewed both internally and externally allowing proportions, configurations and options to be assessed and developed.
The modelling tool is designed to interface with widely-used CAD systems so users can import and export 2D and 3D design drawings. Its functions include:
- 3D visualisations created in Google SketchUp can be imported into WIC3D to produce and show 3D renders featuring WICONA façade systems where required in the 3D construction.
- 2D elevation drawings can be brought into WIC3D for use as a template to create 3D renders. These can then be exported for use with all major CAD software including AutoCAD®, Bentley®, ArchiCAD and ADT.
- There is the option to export 3D renders for use with Google SketchUp or in 3ds format for use with AutoDesk 3ds Studio Max.
WIC3D is available via the Wicona WIC3D website for a free 30-day trial and there is a demonstration video to view.
In addition to its comprehensive technical support for architects and building designers, Wicona provides a range of technology-based specification tools to assist with façade design, including BIM components for its product portfolio, downloadable technical information, an 'ideas' app, and Wicona Finder - an architectural database and invaluable source of innovative design solutions for curtain walling, windows and doors.
Wicona offers both bespoke façade solutions and a range of technically-advanced aluminium curtain walling, window and door systems for a comprehensive range of applications. The systems deliver high specification performance for complex projects and are engineered to push the boundaries of aluminium façades, whilst balancing cost efficiency with the latest advances in façade technology.
Developed in Germany, this standardised range of systems has already been widely used internationally to realise the most ambitious building designs and includes WICTEC curtain walling, WICLINE windows, WICSTYLE heavy duty doors, and safety and security options for fire protection and burglar and bullet resistance.
For more information about Wicona's facade solutions for complex and challenging projects and its standardised range of glazing products, visit www.wicona.co.uk, email info.wiconauk@wicona.com or call 0845 602 8799.
Editor's Note
Wicona has more than five decades of experience in façade design and engineering, and offers a complete service from design concepts to guidance with fabrication, installation, testing and handover. Wicona and its partners will manage the full façade project, ensuring a seamless approach and complete peace of mind for architects, contractors and developers.
