ArchiFrame is a software package made up of a collection of BIM tools that can be used at many points across the construction lifecycle.

Not all ArchiFrame users use all of its features, and there are different ways to approach working with ArchiFrame. Similarly to Archicad, there are some centralised workflows, but also lots of room for individual processes and ways of working.

ArchiFrame can be scaled up for large-scale production in element factories, but it can also be used by carpenters and traditional house builders who have a much smaller volume of projects.

Let’s look at some of the different scenarios and industries where ArchiFrame can be useful.

Prefabrication and element factories

When building using offsite methods, using ArchiFrame is a way to increase efficiency and minimise errors during element production at your factory.

In element factories where multiple elements need to be manufactured accurately on a consistent basis, having detailed data on grooves, machinings, and drillings leads to accurate pre-cut elements — a big time-saver. Scalability is built into ArchiFrame.

• CNC export function takes you from drawing to production
• Customise via XML to match your production processes
• Automate pre-cut element design
• Use your 3D-model on-site or in production using Archicad’s standard BIMx viewer to be able to verify complicated details and always have up-to-date drawings.

Check out this video taken at a Finnish element factory with details on how Archicad and ArchiFrame can be leveraged for element production:

Timber house builders & carpenters

ArchiFrame is a great tool for people who build in timber, and it also works for smaller house building projects. ArchiFrame’s ability to mix the technical with the visual makes it ideal for people who like to get close to the materials they are building with.

ArchiFrame separates a building right down to individual timber elements, even going down to the drillings in planks and special joins. With ArchiFrame you can control finishing on a granular level and be close to the final end result.

One of our users, Pöll in Austria, has a long heritage in carpentry and they mix traditional and hybrid methods using ArchiFrame as part of their operations.

Architects

ArchiFrame is a tool that can help bridge the gap between design and production, making it ideal for architects who want to have control over the building process. Though there are some features of ArchiFrame (such as CNC exporting) that may not be relevant to all scenarios, its powerful framing and visualisation tools are universally appreciated.

ArchiFrame can also be an asset for architects when working with clients. Architectural studios like Designis have figured out a way to use ArchiFrame to create their own custom colour-coded libraries. Using technology in a strategic way and embracing BIM helps Designis manage their sustainable builds.

Mass timber elements and CLT (cross-laminated timber)

Working with mass timber is becoming increasingly popular, and ArchiFrame has CLT support for users who want to work with mass timber elements. In ArchiFrame, you can customise your CLT elements by size, layers, and connections between the boards.

Here is a video with details on how to alter CLT settings:

Building in CLT is especially popular in the Nordic countries and middle Euroupe and new types of CLT are constantly being invented. One of the main draws of using CLT is to make construction materials more sustainable.

CNC output

CNC (computer numerical control) machines can be a major asset for builders as they allow for smart automation. Anyone that needs to output to CNC machines, can benefit from ArchiFrame as you can output CNC code directly from ArchiFrame, without the need for a separate exporter program.

We offer CNC support for BVN and BVX  (Hundegger), BTL (multiple cut saws, and Mobi One framing station), WUP (Weinmann) and Swedish Randek.

Archicad users

Another obvious user group for ArchiFrame are Archicad users. If you are familiar with Archicad, you already have a lot of the knowledge and the context needed to benefit from ArchiFrame. By using ArchiFrame, you are effectively building on your existing Archicad model and adding a further layer of functionality and context over it. At the same time, you will be able to use all your favourite Archicad workflows.

If you want to mainly use ArchiFrame to design and model houses in Archicad, then we have a free tool that you can use to model fascia boards and other tricky elements a lot faster, AF Start.

Steel framing

As well as timber frames, ArchiFrame is suitable for metal framing in steel. Steel framing in ArchiFrame is best suited to manual, smaller projects. (Though one day we may also support more steel connections).

One-stop shop and support for processes

Design, drafting, data, compliance. Like Archicad, ArchiFrame is a versatile BIM powerhouse. ArchiFrame can be used to do a lot, but it can also be part of a larger process in a more supportive, hybrid role. Consider what part of the building process you are currently finding challenging, and see whether ArchiFrame has an answer to it!