Software developer Bricsys has released a new version of its computer-aided design package.

The update, BricsCAD V17, supports sheet metal design, 2D drafting, 3D modelling and building information modelling, and the firm says it’s the only CAD system on the market to base all these functions on the industry-standard .dwg file format.

“BricsCAD BIM combines in one product the most advanced 3D sketch modeller with full IFC-certified BIM functionality,” a representative said in a statement.

“It allows you to work through all the typical design stages without leaving the .dwg platform.”

The compare function flags up differences between 3D solids and surfaces using an intuitive colour-coding system, making it easy to compare models with those of a client, colleague or vendor.

The 4k-friendly program is now compatible with ultra-high-resolution monitors, and its new dockable, modeless Layer Explorer keeps layer names and settings at the user’s fingertips for easy access while drawing and editing.

Models can be documented more quickly thanks to expanded section views – full, half, offset and aligned – which are automatically generated and stay associated with models as designs are refined.