How to Set Load Bearing Direction for Slabs in BricsCAD BIM
Quick answer: BIMSETLOADBEARINGDIRECTION defines zero, one, or two load bearing directions for a slab. Once defined in the 3D model, indicate that direction in the floorplan using the Manual option of BIMTAG, the same tagging command referenced in passing on this hub’s BIM window creation page.
Specifying the Load Bearing Direction(s)
Only solids classified as a BIM Slab can be processed by this command; use BIMIFY or BIMCLASSIFY to classify a solid first.
- Launch
BIMSETLOADBEARINGDIRECTION. You’re prompted to select a slab. - Click the slab (setting a plan section’s Clip Display property can make this easier); a widget displays at the slab’s centre.
- Click the widget repeatedly to cycle through the direction options, then press Enter or right-click to confirm.
Adding a Load Bearing Symbol in a Plan Section
- Since slabs usually overlap with walls, set the BIM Section entity’s Hidden Lines > Show property to Yes, then run
BIMSECTIONUPDATEon the plan section. - Open the plan section.
- Launch
BIMTAGand choose the Manual option. - Choose Change Tag Type.
- Choose the Load-Bearing Direction tag type.
- Click a point on the slab’s edge; the tag attaches to the cursor.
- Click again to place it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a slab have more than one load bearing direction? Yes, BIMSETLOADBEARINGDIRECTION supports zero, one, or two directions per slab.
Why won’t BIMSETLOADBEARINGDIRECTION let me select my slab? It only works on solids already classified as a BIM Slab, classify it first with BIMIFY or BIMCLASSIFY.
Why do I need to change the Hidden Lines property before tagging a load bearing direction? Slabs usually overlap with walls, so setting Hidden Lines > Show to Yes on the BIM Section entity ensures the slab’s edge line actually generates for the tag to attach to.
How do I cycle through the available load bearing direction options? Click the widget that appears at the slab’s centre repeatedly, then confirm with Enter or a right-click.