The NBS BIM Library

Standardized BIM objects

The NBS BIM Library is a collection of thousands of generic and manufacturer BIM objects authored and certified by our experts to our trusted NBS BIM Object Standard. Our extensive collection includes generic objects you can use for outline design stages and a vast range of specific manufacturer objects for use later on in your project.

Objects from NBS can be downloaded and then added to 3D models. Designers using the NBS Plug-in for Autodesk Revit can drag and drop objects directly from NBS into their model.

Design development

Early in a project, NBS generic objects can be used to build a concept design model. For example, generic wall, floor and ceiling objects can be used to define spaces without the final systems being known. Additional generic objects such as doors, windows and cubicles are available to help develop the concept. Figure 1 below shows examples of concept objects from NBS such as 250 mm roof object or a single window that can be used to indicate window locations.

Finally, the generic objects can be replaced with specific manufacturer objects as specification decisions are made. Figure 3 illustrates a specific roof system from the manufacturer Bauder Ltd and a specific tilt-turn window from the manufacturer Profile 22 Systems.

Search and browse for objects now on NBS Source

Coordinated model and specification

The 3D model only contains a certain amount of the information required. A huge of amount of information is also contained elsewhere in data sources such as specifications, third-party certifications, installation manuals and maintenance schedules.

Technology allows the information in the 3D model to be coordinated with these external data sources. With respect to the specification, the NBS plug-ins allow for 3D models in either Autodesk Revit, Graphisoft Archicad, Bentley OpenBuilding Designer or Nemetschek Vectorworks.

Figure 4 shows the NBS plug-in for Autodesk Revit. Using this plug-in has two benefits:

• increased productivity by putting the specification writing process within the design environment; and
• reduced risk of incorrect information by allowing the designer to annotate directly from the project specification clauses.

Features of the plug-in include:

• Specifiers can assemble and edit the specification from within the design environment.
• Designers can view the specification, associate objects directly to specification clauses and add notes to log any queries.
• Once objects are linked to specification clauses, then this information will instantly appear in any annotations or schedules.
• Checking features exist to report on any associations that require attention as the two data models develop.

Download the plug-in

Support on plug-in