Trimble Delivers New Version of its Plancal nova CAD/CAE Software for Mechanical, Electrical, HVAC and Plumbing Contractors and Engineers

Trimble announced version 11 of its Plancal nova CAD and calculation software for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) contractors, engineers and installers in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical and public health trades. 

A fully-featured Building Information Modeling (BIM) solution within Trimble's MEP CAD/CAE portfolio, Plancal nova software features functionality specific to the MEP trades. It integrates design, drawing and engineering calculation/analysis through a proprietary CAD-core. 

Plancal nova version 11 includes:  

• IFC certification by buildingSMART, a global organization that manages IFC standards, in accordance with IFC 2x3 Coordination View 2.0, to enable both 3D model and attribute data exchange.

• Extended IFC functionality through the release of the nova BIM converter. The tool enables accurate import and export of IFC files to nova. This new solution allows for review and adjustment in the import process giving a new level of reliability in the IFC functionality.

• Ability to sync and publish 3D models in Trimble Connect, a cloud-based collaboration platform for the design, construction and operation of buildings. Trimble Connect streamlines workflows and transforms collaborative processes, allowing teams to access, analyze, manage and share project data from anywhere at any time. 

In cooperation with Trox GmbH, Plancal nova users can now locate Trox HVAC components directly in Plancal nova. With the Trox Easy Product Finder, users can easily navigate to find products and automatically populate the product data and components into the model with detailed technical data.  

"We appreciate all the new improvements in Plancal nova version 11, especially the nova BIM Converter and the integration of the TROX Easy Product Finder," said Cindy Sommer, state certified technician at Deerns Deutschland GMBH."In our daily workflow with IFC files we are looking forward to leveraging the nova BIM Converter to get a very detailed representation of the imported IFC files. Since we frequently use TROX components in our planning we are thrilled that we now can import the geometry and calculating data directly into the software, without having to enter them manually."

"Plancal nova is an ideal solution for European MEP contractors who want to improve their office to field workflow. Version 11 provides the ability to automate layout using hanger points from nova combined with the automated Trimble RTS field layout tools. By providing one workflow tool from the initial design to the preparation of design files for layout, users can reduce errors and increase efficiencies," said Martin Holmgren, director of Marketing and Engineering Trimble's MEP Division. 

Plancal nova version 11 is available to European customers through the Plancal sales channel now.

Plancal nova is a major product within the portfolio of Trimble Buildings, a part of Trimble's Engineering and Construction segment focused on solutions to optimize the complete Design-Build-Operate (DBO) lifecycle of buildings. Incorporating the Trimble Connect collaboration platform and spanning top brands such as SketchUp, Tekla, Gehry Technologies, Proliance, Prolog, Vico Office, WinEst, Accubid, Manhattan Software, and more, Trimble's product and professional service offerings improve productivity, visibility and data interoperability, from simulation to renovation. Used in over 150 countries around the world and supported by a global dealer and distribution partner network, Trimble technology is a mainstay of the building industry.