Product Configurator
Podium’s product configurator is designed to address the need for efficient product selection by utilizing real-world products from suppliers to meet specific building requirements. Central to this feature is a robust database supported by suppliers, ensuring that accurate and up-to-date product information is integrated into the design process. The product configurator allows users to modify product criteria and select from a diverse range of suppliers. It is supported by an extensive database of products and a solver that assists in making optimal product selections based on building information and user input. This automation effectively tackles the traditional challenges of product research, selection and configuration, which historically required meticulous manual calculations and extensive research. By streamlining these processes, the configurator minimizes the need for repetitive work and reduces the risk of costly redesigns, ensuring more efficient and reliable project outcomes.
Access
Users have the ability to adjust product criteria through the Engineering Configurator. This can be done from the Project Landing Page on the LHP or by selecting the “Podium Default” template name in the upper right corner of the site/building area.
(1) Access via Project Landing Page
(2) Access via Site/Building Space
Select Domain
Products within the configurator are organized into different domains. Users should select their desired domain from the panel on the left side, followed by the typology that best suits their needs.
Product Configurator
Product Criteria
To adjust product criteria, navigate to the relevant domain from the LHP and proceed to the product criteria section. In this section, users can select a product from the left tab and make necessary adjustments using various input methods such as:
- Dropdown menus
- Multi-selection options
- Single selection
- Text input (values or strings)
- Interval components
The configurator includes integrated data validation for each parameter to ensure that inputs provided to the solver are correct, enhancing performance and accuracy. If any issues arise while saving changes, users should look for red error messages and make the necessary corrections. Tooltips are available for additional guidance; simply hover over the icon to access them.
Example: Structural Product Criteria
Configuration Criteria
For certain products, a more advanced solver has been integrated to increase flexibility. An example is the configuration of water-cooled chillers, where users can specify the number of chillers needed right from the start. This approach leverages industry expertise, allowing users to adapt their designs with greater freedom. Every company has its own guidelines for determining the required number of chillers based on building size.
- Users have the flexibility to modify both the cooling load and the number of chillers. These settings remain adjustable, allowing users to either input values directly or utilize the stepper to select the desired number of chillers.
- Users have the option to add or remove rows of criteria to increase their range, offering greater flexibility. A maximum of 10 rows can be added to broaden the available range
Save Changes
Before exiting the configurator, it is essential to save any changes made to the product input. This ensures that the most recent updates are incorporated into your design. Keep in mind that altering the product input will prompt the building to resolve.
By following this guide, users can efficiently navigate and utilize the Podium product configurator to enhance their project outcomes. If further assistance is needed, please consult the tooltips or contact support for additional help.