Trimble introduced today Trimble® MEPdesigner for SketchUp, a new platform extension to SketchUp Pro specifically designed to improve the productivity and ease of use in 3D computer-aided design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for contractors. The platform extension is designed to enable contractors to quickly and easily migrate from a 2D to a 3D work environment, through SketchUp Pro, a 3D modeling platform used around the world.
The announcement was made at Trimble Dimensions.
Trimble MEPdesigner was created specifically for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) contractors who are looking for an easy-to-use and cost-efficient 3D CAD platform. Trimble MEPdesigner for SketchUp version 1.0 will initially support electrical systems objects including conduit, cable trays and device boxes, and continually expand to incorporate intelligent object data and other MEP systems specific to today's contractor's needs. The solution also features tools that allow contractors to easily create custom components and route conduit within the SketchUp Pro platform. MEP contractors are able to take advantage of not only the features and components included in Trimble MEPdesigner but also the extensive database of user and manufacturer generated models pre-populated in the SketchUp 3D Warehouse.
By implementing 3D modeling with Trimble MEPdesigner, contractors will be able to easily work with other contractors on projects through the IFC export in SketchUp, helping to reduce RFI and rework costs frequently seen on projects without 3D collaboration. Additionally, as a "Trimble Connected" product, Trimble MEPdesigner leverages the new Trimble Connect collaboration environment for design, engineering and construction projects. Based on the recently acquired GTeam™ software from Gehry Technologies, Trimble Connect enables teams to access and manage project data via a cloud platform.
By using Trimble MEPdesigner contractors will be able to take advantage of a variety of new and existing solutions for SketchUp Pro including Trimble Field Points for SketchUp. With the extension contractors can place layout points in their model and export them to Trimble Field Link for MEP, allowing them to take full advantage of their 3D model in the field for accuracy of MEP systems placement.
"With the growth of BIM adoption by MEP contractors, it is essential we provide tools that allow firms to easily adopt BIM, enabling them to stay competitive in the market place," said Pat Bohle, general manager of the MEP Division within Trimble Buildings. "The introduction of Trimble MEPdesigner for SketchUp breaks down barriers to BIM and opens up 3D CAD technology and BIM to more MEP contractors."
"SketchUp Pro has introduced 3D modeling to millions of users across the globe through its easy-to-use interface," said Chris Keating, general manager of the Architecture Division within Trimble Buildings. "With the addition of Trimble MEPdesigner for SketchUp to the Extension Warehouse, we are excited to see how the use of SketchUp continues to grow with new uses in the construction industry."
