Learn Navisworks Manage in 30 Hours

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to help you learn how to effectively use Navisworks Manage for Building Information Modeling (BIM) projects. Navisworks is a critical tool for BIM coordinators in the construction industry, enabling the management of 4D and 5D simulations, as well as the integration of various 3D models from different software. Through this guide, you will gain a solid understanding of key features and tools within Navisworks.

Step 1: Understanding Navisworks Interface

• Familiarize yourself with the Navisworks workspace.
• Explore the main components:
  • Home Tab: Access tools for file management and model navigation.
  • View Tab: Adjust visual settings and viewpoints.
  • Review Tab: Utilize commenting, redlining, and measurement tools.

Practical Tip: Spend time navigating the interface to get comfortable with where tools are located.

Step 2: Importing 3D Models

• Open Navisworks and import your 3D models.
  • Go to the Home Tab.
  • Click Append to add models from different formats (Revit, AutoCAD, MicroStation).
• Ensure all models are properly aligned and positioned.

Common Pitfall: Check model compatibility. Different software may have unique layers and settings that need adjustments.

Step 3: Navigating the 3D Model

• Use the navigation tools to explore the model:
  • Orbit: Rotate around the model.
  • Pan: Move the view horizontally or vertically.
  • Zoom: Get closer to specific details.

Practical Tip: Use keyboard shortcuts for efficient navigation:

• Shift + Mouse Drag: Orbit
• Ctrl + Mouse Drag: Pan
• Mouse Scroll Wheel: Zoom

Step 4: Utilizing Review Tools

• Use the Review Tab to add comments and markups:
  • Select the Comment tool to add notes on specific parts of the model.
  • Use the Redline tool to draw attention to areas needing revision.
• Measure distances and areas with the Measure Tool.

Practical Tip: Keep your notes organized by grouping comments related to specific aspects of the project.

Step 5: Performing Interference Detection

• Access the interference detection tools:
  • Go to the Home Tab and select Clash Detective.
• Set up a new clash test:
  • Define which models to check against each other.
  • Run the test to identify any clashes or conflicts.

Common Pitfall: Ensure that the models are properly coordinated before running clash detection to avoid false positives.

Step 6: Managing 4D and 5D Simulations

• Use the TimeLiner tool for 4D simulations:
  • Set up tasks and link them to specific model elements.
  • Create a timeline to visualize project scheduling.
• For 5D simulations, integrate cost data:
  • Link cost estimates with specific model components to analyze budgeting.

Practical Tip: Regularly update your simulations as the project evolves to maintain accurate representations.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you will have a foundational understanding of how to manage BIM projects using Navisworks Manage. You can effectively import models, navigate the interface, utilize review tools, perform clash detection, and manage both 4D and 5D simulations. For further learning, consider exploring more advanced features and tutorials available on BIMLOD’s website or dedicated training platforms.