Allplan+2018+top

Allplan 2018: A Comprehensive Write-Up of the Top Features and Capabilities

What is Allplan 2018 Top? (The "Top" Variant Explained)

Allplan is developed by the German Nemetschek Group, a giant in the AEC industry. Unlike simplified CAD tools, Allplan is built for the complete building lifecycle.

The "Top" qualification in the Allplan 2018 suite is critical. Allplan was released in three tiers:

1. Allplan Essentials: Basic 2D/3D drafting and standard modeling.
2. Allplan Architecture: Architectural BIM focus.
3. Allplan Engineering: Structural analysis and reinforcement.
4. Allplan Top: The flagship edition.

Allplan 2018 Top combines the power of Architecture and Engineering into a single, unified platform. It includes the Allplan Add-Ons (Render, Terrain, Site Planning, Stair Module, and Roof Module) plus advanced import/export filters (IFC, DWG, DGN). If you needed to design a complex stadium, a parametric bridge, or a high-rise with intricate rebar detailing, Top was the version you bought.

Phase 5: Output

Finally, you create a Layout Book. Because Allplan is German-engineered, its 2D documentation is legendary. You can cut live sections through the 3D model. If you move a window in 3D, the floor plan, section, and elevation update automatically. You print to PDF or plot directly to a large format printer.

The Pain Points (Let’s Be Honest)

It wasn't all perfect. Allplan 2018 Top had three major flaws:

1. The UI Paradox: The interface looked like Windows 98 mixed with a CAD workstation. Right-click menus were hidden. The "Taskbar" (Palette) system required a two-week training course to master. It is powerful, but not intuitive.
2. IFC Export Weirdness: While IFC 2x3 export worked, the naming conventions were strictly German (e.g., "Wand_Standard" instead of "Wall_Standard"). Coordinating with Revit users required a translation dictionary.
3. No Cloud Collaboration: This was pre-ALLPLAN Share. To collaborate, you needed a VPN and a mapped network drive. Modern "cloud BIM" didn't exist.

Error 1: "License server timeout" on Top features

Fix: The 2018 license manager (CodeMeter) is finicky with modern firewalls. Set a static IP for your license server and disable IPv6 on the network adapter.

Error 2: "Top Reinforcement Wizard crashes on Shell"

Fix: Your geometry has a zero-thickness edge. Use Mesh Healing under Tools > Repair > Delete Zero-length edges before running the reinforcement wizard.

The "Top" Distinction: Not Just Architecture

Before diving in, we must clarify the naming. In 2018, Allplan was divided into clear tiers. The "Top" version was the flagship. It wasn't just for architects; it was the hybrid monster. It included: allplan+2018+top

• Allplan Architecture Top (Complex freeform modeling)
• Allplan Engineering Top (Integrated analysis and reinforcement)

If you bought Allplan 2018 Top, you got the BIM server, the render engine, the terrain modeler, and the full steel/concrete detailing kit. It was the "buy once, own everything" (perpetual license) era.

4. The "Allplan Bridge" DNA

While Bridge is a separate product, the 2018 Top version of Allplan Engineering inherited the NURBS-based modeling kernel from the Bridge division. This is critical.

Most BIM software uses mesh or solid modeling (BREP). Allplan uses a hybrid kernel. In 2018, this meant you could import a terrain point cloud (500MB+), drape a road, and create a solid tunnel shell without crashing. The memory management in 2018 was 64-bit native and lean. It ran better on a Core i7-8700K with 16GB of RAM than modern BIM software runs on a Threadripper.

Verdict: Who was Allplan 2018 for?

• Best for: Precast concrete manufacturers and structural engineering firms working on infrastructure (bridges, tunnels, high-rises).
• Not ideal for: Interior designers or small residential architects seeking rendering eye-candy (though the built-in renderer was solid).
• Legacy note: While the UI was more industrial than artistic, the speed of the 2018 modeling kernel (64-bit multi-core processing) was superior to many competitors that felt sluggish with large point clouds.

Final Rating (2018 context): ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Docked half a star for a steep learning curve, but awarded full points for production reliability.

Looking for the latest features? Allplan has evolved significantly since 2018. Contact your local distributor for a 2024 feature comparison.

Allplan 2018 — Overview and key features

Allplan 2018 is a BIM-aware CAD solution for architects and engineers focused on 2D/3D design, precision modeling, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Below are concise, actionable highlights and practical tips. Allplan 2018: A Comprehensive Write-Up of the Top

Key features

• BIM workflow: integrated model-based design with object-based elements and linked project data.
• Versatile modeling: precise 2D drafting plus freeform 3D modeling (solids, meshes, NURBS-like tools).
• Parametric objects: smart, editable objects (walls, slabs, beams, windows) that update across views.
• Reinforcement design: advanced rebar modeling and detailing with automatic bending schedules.
• IFC support: import/export of IFC for open collaboration with other BIM tools.
• Layout and documentation: automated plan, section, elevation generation with associative detailing.
• Quantity takeoff: extraction of material and area/volume quantities for cost estimation.
• Visualization: integrated rendering and presentation tools for realistic views.
• Collaboration: teamworking server for multi-user projects and file management.
• Performance: optimized for large projects with memory and GPU improvements in the 2018 release.

Practical tips

• Start with templates: use project templates and company standards to keep drawings consistent.
• Use layers and views: separate disciplines (architecture/structure/M&E) on layers and create saved views for efficient documentation.
• Keep objects parametric: avoid exploding objects early — preserve parameters for later edits and schedule updates.
• Validate IFC exchanges: always run an IFC export check and coordinate with collaborators on geometry/attribute mapping.
• Rebar practice: model primary reinforcement in the 3D element level and use automatic rebar distribution for repetitive patterns.
• Use project browser: organize drawings, models, and revision history for quick access.
• Hardware: use a mid-to-high-end GPU and SSDs; Allplan 2018 benefits from more RAM for large models.
• Backup & versioning: enable teamworking server features and keep regular backups before major changes.

Common workflows

1. Concept to schematic:
   • Create site and floor layouts in 2D.
   • Place parametric walls/slabs and develop initial 3D massing.
2. Design development:
   • Add structural elements and rebar.
   • Create sections/elevations and refine details.
3. Documentation and schedules:
   • Generate plans with associative dimensions.
   • Extract quantities and produce rebar bending schedules.
4. Handover:
   • Export IFC and DWG sets.
   • Create rendered views and PDF sets for client delivery.

License and compatibility notes

• Allplan 2018 uses license management typical for Nemetschek products; confirm compatibility with current OS and check for available updates/patches.
• Some newer file formats from later Allplan versions may not be backward compatible—use export options when sharing with older versions.

Useful shortcuts & commands (typical)

• Snap and constraint toggles for precision placement.
• Boolean operations for complex solids.
• Rebar placement tool for automatic distribution. (Consult Allplan 2018 help for exact keyboard shortcuts.)

Where to learn more

• Official release notes and user manual for version-specific fixes and tools.
• Community forums and training courses for advanced modeling and reinforcement workflows.

Would you like a condensed one-page quick-reference cheat sheet (printer-friendly) or a short checklist tailored to architects vs. structural engineers? Allplan 2018 Top combines the power of Architecture

In Allplan 2018, the Draft role features are primarily organized within the redesigned Actionbar, a task-oriented interface at the top of the workspace. This interface dynamically updates based on your selected role, grouping specialized tools for 2D design, labeling, and documentation. Core Drafting Features in Allplan 2018

The Actionbar: Replacing traditional menus, the Actionbar at the top of the screen provides quick access to functional groups like Design (2D objects), Label (text and leaders), and Quick Access.

Track Line & Precision Tools: A key feature for drafting is the Track Line, which allows you to determine element directions (horizontal, vertical, or 45°) and draw perpendicular lines without needing temporary construction geometry.

Fixture Integration: Allplan combines 3D modeling with flexible 2D drafting through "Fixtures." These allow you to control how an element appears in different views, including specific hatching or line work for 2D plans.

Collaborative Drafting: The 2018 release introduced an IFC4 interface for better data exchange and the ALLPLAN Exchange tool for web-based plan distribution and automatic change notifications. Functional Groups within the Draft Role

When the Draft role is active, the Actionbar typically displays the following task areas:

Design Task: Contains tools for 2D Objects such as rectangles, parallel lines, and complex intersections (e.g., the "Intersect 2 Entities" tool).

Label Task: Specifically for adding Text, labels, and leaders to your technical drawings.

Modify Tools: Enables quick adjustments like Division Points or polar coordinate modifications to existing 2D elements. ALLPLAN Ultimate