IMPORTANT:
The Stone Ridge house on Lot 34 Saddle Rock was designed in conjunction with Keymark Engineering's KeyBuild system. This is a BIM system which analyzes the 3D model data base, which was created in Point Line Cad (now defunct). Keymark currently has ported their software to work on AutoDesk's Architectural Desktop.

The KeyBuild software does a structural analysis from the roof all the way to the footings and includes lateral loads (wind and seismic) as well as conventional gravity loads. Loads are transferred through different systems such as the roof trusses to the stud walls through the I-joists to the steel beams and concrete walls of the foundation to the footings/drilled piers. This is notable because most structural engineering packages stop when the materials change.

The KeyBuild software designs the trusses to 1/64”, provides a cut list with angles, gang-nail plates, etc. and can interface with computer controlled saws. Currently truss shops redraw each project that they build, rather than take advantage of the existing geometry.

Similarly, the KeyBuild software lays out wall panels for pre-fabricated construction in a shop and shows the header(s), king studs, bracing/blocking, etc. for every wall in the project.

The KeyBuild software also provides a material list that can be as detailed as needed. For the example we worked on, the material list included the number of drywall screws, buckets of drywall mud, gallons of paint by room, etc.

The project was done about four years ago and the builder was unable to recognize the immense value of the data we printed out for him. However, the systems are in place to get future jobs engineered/designed/priced/fabricated in this manner for all types of light frame construction. Apartment buildings, townhouses and other production building, in particular lend themselves to this approach.

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