Axis Communications, the world provider in network video, launches a strong addition to its toolbox for security system designers with the introduction of Axis Camera Families (ACF), a collection of 3D surveillance camera models to be used with Autodesk Revit software.
Axis Communications, the world provider in network video, launches a strong addition to its toolbox for security system designers with the introduction of Axis Camera Families (ACF), a collection of 3D surveillance camera models to be used with Autodesk Revit software.
Based on direct feedback from the Axis Architecture & Engineering (A&E) community, ACF includes detailed metadata required for Building Information Modeling (BIM), such as power requirements and mounting accessories, and the camera models created for use in Autodesk Revit 3D CAD building layouts will allow security system designers to interactively visualize camera coverage, select the proper Axis cameras for surveillance needs and optimize the system layout.
"We have used ACF in CCTV designs for our clients,” said Todd Kotlaba, Associate & Systems Project Manager at TLC Engineering for Architecture, who received an early release of ACF. “The true 3D models of the cameras provide us with the ability to run clash detection and conflict avoidance simulation with other building systems, such as mechanical, electrical and plumbing, to avoid routing conflicts and obstructions to a camera's intended field of view."
With the new 3D models in ACF, security system designers can place different Axis network camera icons directly into CAD building plans to illustrate what the real life camera set-up will look like once installed and simultaneously showcase the areas that the surveillance system will cover. This allows designers to see exactly how the cameras fit into the building layout while helping to reduce unexpected blind spots by easily detecting if a camera's field of view will be obstructed by columns or walls.
Kotlaba continued, "ACF is extremely helpful for our clients that often cannot visualize what will be seen when construction is complete. The information also identifies pixels per foot for the camera selected, which helps meet our client's expectation for the quality of the viewable image and recording resolution."
With ACF, security system planning can now be completed as an integrated part of building design using the same exact tool flow used by architects and engineers. Users of the CAD system can also access information about each camera, such as the model number, mounting accessories, power consumption and resolution.
"The role of the professional consultant is one of the most valuable in the surveillance design process, and Autodesk Revit has become a prolific tool for our A&E community," said Jack Meltzer, A&E Program Manager at Axis Communications. "By listening to their wants and needs, well designed Revit models using ACF can now improve planning and work efficiency by allowing architects and engineers to showcase an interactive representation of camera functionality that clearly demonstrates the different fields of view. This will result in more effective value engineering, device placement, conflict identification and aesthetic coordination."
ACF for Autodesk Revit, which includes the vast majority of Axis network cameras, is available today free of charge for existing Axis partners and members of the Axis A&E Program.
Note: BIM is a concept where all components in a building, such as walls, doors and plumbing, are compiled in a CAD database to provide a complete picture of every detail included in the design. This database is not only used in planning and constructing of the building, but also throughout the building's entire lifespan to plan maintenance and management initiatives.