Bridge Modeling Using GenerativeComponents

I know this question is asked a few times in the past but I couldn't get the answer to my questions. I am a beginner for GC and it is very hard to understand the process of Modeling with GC.

I want to know how you can achieve full 3d bridge model fully parametrically.

Things I want to achieve are:

1. Reference the alignment from InRoads or OpenRoads.

2. All the bridge members (eg. Beams, columns, barriers etc) follow the reference alignment so when alignment changes, whole bridge will move with alignment.

3. How to create cells which are parametric and can be modified after placing according to needs.

4. Any Step by Step video or tutorial to show a real-life example of Bridge modeling.

It would be good if someone who has done some Bridge modeling with GC shares their experience and briefly explain how they achieved it.

Thanks in Advance.

Jaimin Patel

  • Hi Jaimin,

    In a separate forum thread we have discussed how a Line String alignment created in a DGN-compatible application (OpenRail, OpenRoads) can be used in GC to place objects along it. In that script, objects will be aligned with the inclination of the path. It can be easily modified to keep those objects vertical instead, as might be required for bridge supports. (1)

    For cant or super-elevation, it is beneficial to generate those additional alignments in the expert applications (i.e. OpenRail, OpenRoads) rather than attempting to recreate the required algorithms in GenerativeComponents (which would be possible in theory, but practically unnecessary because those expert applications exist and do a fabulous job).

    (2) Yes, GenerativeComponents will refresh dependencies when contents in reference files change. Using the "Update Model" command in GenerativeComponents will work like reloading a reference file.

    (3) At this point in time, Generated Node Types are the recommended approach for this type of requirement. We will integrate parametric cells at a later time.

    (4) Real-life examples are what our users produce. It would indeed be wonderful if we could share the marvelous bridge examples we at Bentley Systems have seen our users create. On the other hand, it would help us also to understand where our bridge design software falls short. What is the reason to use GenerativeComponents?

    Regards,

        Volker

       

    Answer Verified By: Jaimin Patel 

  • Hi Volker,

    Thanks for the information, I am researching and learning GC every day and I believe it is very powerful software, almost anything can be achieved, there is nearly no limitation. I appreciate your interest in helping users and explaining things. As a bridge modeler, I would love to see a set-up where everything is parametric which way everything is linked to road alignment, so no matter how many times Civil team change road alignments, we don't have to make any more changes as everything will follow road alignment. Another advantage will be incorporating the geometry, if alignment moves, elements will know what is happening with geometry at new alignment so they will adjust accordingly. Furthermore, you always have the opportunity to explore different design ideas and possibilities. All of this is the positive side of the GC and Parametric Modeling.

    However, for GC to be useful in Bridge Modeling, there are many things needs to be including, it is very hard to work with available nodes type.  I know many people in Bridge Modeling are attracted to Grasshopper because of its popularity in the market and available learning material and live examples. I still love GC because it is Bentley and it is easy to work on the same platform as most of the Civil geometry is coming from either OpenRail or OpenRoads at my workplace. I am looking forward to seeing GC growing and new tools are added according to user requirements. If users can achieve most of the task on less scripting and more visual modeling it will be a big hit.

    I can see GC team is working hard to make it best and I wish all the best to the entire GC team. Slight smile

    Best Regards,

    Jaimin Patel

  • Hi Jaimin,

    However, for GC to be useful in Bridge Modeling, there are many things needs to be including

    I am curious: which specific capabilities you suggest are missing? We are always working on improving our products; therefore, the more specific the feedback is that you provide, the better will we be able to help you succeed.

    Best regards,

        Volker

       

  • Jaimin, 

    I would recommend you try out OpenBridge Modeler. It is built on the Civil Platform and is entirely parametric. 

    Regards,

    Sri

       

  • Yes, Jaimin, I second Sri's recommendation.

    It would be helpful to understand what OpenBridge Modeler is missing and how GenerativeComponents may serve as a stop gap or serve to connect between OpenBridge and OpenBuildings.

    Regards,

         Volker