This article is part of a strict, sequential step-by-step tutorial for loading 3D CAD models as BIM components — a static example (guide shoe) and a dynamic example (car frame). Follow the steps in order — each later step builds on the result of the one before it.
Prerequisites
DigiPara Liftdesigner and DigiPara Liftdesigner Datamanager are installed, with write access to the DigiPara BIM Library data pool you want to extend.
CAD authoring software (Autodesk Inventor, PTC Creo, or SolidWorks), if you want to prepare your own models rather than use STEP files.
The practice CAD models for this tutorial are provided as STEP files in the download ZIP: Your_PL3_Training_CAD_Models.zip
Steps
1.) Confirm your CAD model is in a supported format. DigiPara Liftdesigner accepts 3D CAD models from:
Autodesk Inventor —
.iam,.iptPTC Creo —
.asm,.prtSolidWorks —
.sldasm,.sldprtSTEP files —
.stp,.step,.stpz
A CAD model is displayed exactly as designed in DigiPara Liftdesigner — it may still need adapting to the concrete elevator project's dimensions later.
2.) Check that the model has a useful, correct base point before importing it. Before you import a CAD model, make sure its origin/base point is placed sensibly relative to the geometry — for example, at a wall fixing bracket's mounting face rather than far away in empty space. An optimal base point saves time adjusting the model's orientation in DigiPara Liftdesigner later. If you don't have access to the original model to fix this yourself, the base point can also be adjusted afterward in Liftdesigner via the Properties docking window.
3.) Split CAD assemblies into individual files where independent movement is needed. For a dynamic BIM component (e.g. a car frame that must adapt to different cabin widths), plan for separate CAD assemblies for the parts that need to move independently of each other — rather than one single, fully static assembly. Each individual assembly's position can then be adapted to the respective cabin size once loaded. A component built from a single, non-split assembly will behave as a static BIM component in DigiPara Liftdesigner.
Result
You know which CAD formats DigiPara Liftdesigner accepts, what makes a CAD model's base point "good," and when to split a model into several files before starting the rest of this tutorial.
Next Step