Posts - 12d Solutions Pty Ltd

History Files: 12d Model Provides Land and Sea Data for Fisherman Islands

At Port of Brisbane Corporation in Queensland (https://www.portbris.com.au/), the versatility of 12d Model was showcased through its critical role in dredging, terrain modelling, and infrastructure design for the landmark Fisherman Islands expansion project.

4D Model (later renamed 12d Model) software is proving to be equally at home on water as it is on land.

The Port of Brisbane Corporation is proving the flexibility of 4D Model by using it for volume checking, contour checking and road design on its development at the Fisherman Islands.

Fisherman Islands is located at the mouth of the Brisbane River. The area was a group of four islands which have been joined by reclamation. Over a 20-year period Fisherman Islands has been developed into one of the most modern container and bulk handling ports in the world.

The site has already out-grown its original land and future expansion has been provided for with the recent reclamation of more than 70 hectares using material dredged from the main access channels in Moreton Bay and the Brisbane River.

This reclamation involved moving 2.6 million cubic metres of sand using the Pearl River dredge which was contracted from Holland. The massive amount of material was to be shifted in 10 weeks.

4D Model was used to calculate pre- and post-dredge volumes. These volumes are used to measure the amount of sand moved and provide the data for the $16 million payment to the dredging contractors.

4D Model is also used to provide 3D views of the Brisbane River bed.

“4D Model provides us with dynamic views of the river bed which permit the observer to clearly understand its profile,” said a Port of Brisbane Corporation draftsman.

The nature of the work carried out by the Port of Brisbane Corporation highlights 4D’s use as a general purpose civil engineering tool. The software can effortlessly provide volume calculations for roading, dredging or landfills.

Engineering surveys are carried out by the Corporation’s surveyors using Total Station equipment. The surveyors process this data using Geocomp and send the resulting information by modem to a network of Digital workstations which run the Ultrix operating system and 4D Model.

“All that data is imported into 4D for checking contours, terrain modelling and volume calculations,” the draftsman said.

4D Model has also been used in the design of a service road network, as well as a major access road and an open drain on the Moreton Bay side of Fisherman Islands.

“The biggest benefit of 4D Model is its speed, accuracy and ease of use. It is powerful and can be programmed to do what you want it to do. The other very big factor is the local support; if you have a problem you can get it fixed very quickly.”

Port of Brisbane draftsmen said while 4D Model is not in use every day, the five members of the CAD unit can turn to it as required and quickly complete their work because of its easy-to-use graphical user interface.

Download this Case Study as a PDF HERE

Victorian Major Projects – WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff

WSP in Victoria, Australia (https://www.wsp.com/en-AU) has been involved in a number of infrastructure projects, working alongside various clients and contractors, including David Rotton, to deliver coordinated engineering solutions.

Parsons Brinckerhoff has been involved in a number of large-scale, high-profile projects covering the design of roads, drainage, sewer, water, and other associated infrastructure, as well as bulk earthwork modelling. Their project teams used 12d Model software to address a range of complex and non-standard challenges, often requiring innovative and customised solutions. Given the scale and nature of these projects, they also needed to collaborate closely with multiple consulting engineering companies, which meant their chosen software had to interact seamlessly with different design platforms used across project teams.

A key requirement was the ability to check clearance and identify potential clashes between services designed in 12d Model and those produced in other software packages. However, limitations in compatibility between import and export formats across platforms meant that alternative methods had to be developed to enable reliable data exchange between systems. This was particularly important for transferring three-dimensional pipeline data elements across drainage, sewer, water, and related services. In addition, the team explored new applications of 12d Model by successfully modelling complex electrical and chemical box culvert systems, which had not previously been attempted.

To address these challenges, detailed working procedures were developed, including step-by-step guides to support consistent data transfer across project teams. These processes enabled 12d Model to export data in .csv format in a structure that could be read by other software, as well as import .csv data generated externally back into the model environment. A custom macro was created to extract three-dimensional pipe data from 12d Model and export it into .csv files for use in other platforms. Electrical and chemical box culverts were modelled using an adapted approach based on drainage strings, with the Drainage Network Editor used to define culvert height and width. The Drainage Plan Plot function, supported by a modified plot parameter file, was then used to represent the culverts with accurate internal geometry, enabling effective service clash detection directly within 12d Model.

Through the use of 12d Model software and these tailored workflows, the team was able to overcome a range of complex and non-standard design challenges across very large projects. This approach also supported effective collaboration with multiple consulting engineering companies, ensuring smooth interaction between 12d Model and the various design software platforms used across project stakeholders.

Download this Case Study as a PDF HERE

Forethought takes NZ architects to the forefront – Gary Pidd Architect Ltd (now Studio 26)

Working with the Ministry of Education, New Zealand, Gary Pidd Architect Ltd now Studio 26, adopted 12d Model and modern surveying technology to transform the delivery of a large-scale school database project, improving efficiency and accuracy across more than 200 school sites nationwide.

New Zealand firm Gary Pidd Architect Ltd has jumped on the cutting edge of technology with its innovative use of 12d Model for an ongoing project to build a database of over 200 schools.

The project involves surveying each site and recording all buildings and features such as paving, ramps, trees, play equipment, covered ways, car parking facilities, sealed areas, and grass areas. This information is then converted into DWG files for supply to the customer.

The firm had previously won a smaller contract to survey schools, but had completed this by hand. When competing for this larger contract, Gary Pidd Architect investigated modern equipment to see what it could do for them.

True first-time users, the firm had not previously used any surveying software, and had only used manual theodolites.

Mr Pidd initially found the New Zealand distributor for 12d Model on the Internet using a search engine. Sokkia in Wellington gave the firm a demonstration of Sokkia instruments and 12d Model software. Mr Pidd was impressed right from the outset. “With Sokkia, we went to a school site, took some measurements, then went back to our office and downloaded it straight onto our computer from the data recorder,” he said.

“We wanted a system which functioned so that when we coded the data in the field, it was automatically given colours, linestyles, symbols such as trees and flagpoles at points when downloaded and reduced. With no extra work, it was then all there as a basic outline of the school!”

Other choices of equipment for the contract included an aerial photograph system and GPS, which Gary Pidd Architect discovered couldn’t give them the accuracy they needed for this job. Using a Practise Version of 12d Model combined with the intended use of Sokkia instruments, the firm put together their proposal, and their chosen methodology won them the contract.

The company has completed plans for 20 schools to date, and estimate the project will take about 9 more months to complete. They have calculated the amount of time saved using 12d Model rather than previous methods as being around 20%!

“The program is so tailorable,” Mr Pidd said. “You don’t have to know all the codes that are in there; just use the one system that you have set up! It’s brilliant! Some of the sites have up to 400 measurements, yet you come back into the office with them, and 15 minutes later, there you are with a plan!”

Another aspect of this modern technology the firm found particularly helpful was the ability to download data files on-site, and email them back to their main office. “Some of the schools are miles away, so this is a great feature for us,” said Mr Pidd.

The firm plans to use 12d Model on all future work. In the words of Mr Pidd, “We will never use just the old theodolite equipment again!

Download this Case Study as a PDF HERE.

History Files: Restricted Environment Motorway/Interchange Design

Traffic Design Group in New Zealand (tdg.co.nz) took on the challenge of designing a complex 1.6km motorway and interchange, with George Eivers leading the project using 12d Model to overcome strict geometric and aviation constraints.

Restricted Environment Motorway/Interchange Design

Traffic Design Group was given the job of assessing whether a 1.6km long motorway and associated interchange could be designed to avoid specific horizontal and vertical restrictions.

An existing road required upgrading to motorway standard, including an interchange, following the placement of other infrastructure. The motorway needed to be able to circumvent future developments and pass under an aviation flight path, while still meeting design standards. 12d Model software was selected for this task.

In order to establish a feasible alignment, the design needed to take into account the curve radii as well as design speed to determine super elevation. Applying super elevation modified the vertical alignment and required transition curves, which modified the horizontal alignment.
This resulted in an iterative design process, which would have been very time consuming to work with.
The team also had the problem of how to present the solution to a layperson simply and quickly.

Using super alignments and the Apply Many function, they added each road and structure to the model in 12d.
When adding the motorway, they input the super elevation and transition curve information; often this would mean the ‘horizontal geometry is not solved’, but by simply moving the curve apex a satisfactory alignment could be quickly and easily be established. This relatively fundamental aspect of 12d Model proved invaluable in quickly generating geometrically correct options.

The team was able to present the client with output from their analysis using the drive-through functionality in 12d Model, which
“…was invaluable. Without an aerial to drape, the sky dome seemed out of place thus we shaded the tin and extruded roadmarking onto the new alignment to simulate the preferred option.”
—George Eivers, Traffic Design Group

Download this Case Study as a PDF HERE

History Files: Export/Import Tools

Eliot Sinclair & Partners in New Zealand (https://eliotsinclair.com/) began their innovation journey with 12d Model quite some time ago, with a young Sam Cech then leading the charge with their macro development.

Not every software package makes it easy to export 12d Model data to it. A number of Eliot Sinclair & Partners (“ESP”) clients were using software packages that were open source (or not widely used), and thus custom export macros provided the best results. Below are some examples.

An ESP client working on the Wimakeriri River fish habitat studies was using a software package by the University of Alberta – River2D, a two-dimensional depth averaged finite element hydrodynamic model which has been customised for fish habitat evaluation studies.
The requested export format needed to contain point and break lines to allow the River2D package to perform its own triangulation. Roughness height value was also supplied, but more was needed to optimise efficiency on this important project.
ESP was supplied an Adobe Illustrator file in an older version, which they were unable to open. The ASCII file was deemed to likely be corrupt, so they decided to create a custom import tool for 12d Model to extract as much information as possible.
ESP client SCIRT needed the ability to import and export complex multi level attribute groups for many strings, and while there are many native options in 12d to do these exports, most only allow for one type of string.
ESP’s internal GIS package for cadastral information, Quickmap, allows for the import and management of custom information. They were eager to upload points and lines into Quickmap in order to show nationwide areas they have surveyed and benchmarks established on sites that could be reused by future surveys. Because Quickmap is an Access Database system that utilises WellKnownText, they needed another export tool from 12d Model.

Faced with these challenges, the most effective solution was to leverage the expertise of their 12d Model Customisation specialist to develop tailored 12d Model macros.

These custom macros enabled the ESP team to:
– help optimise their client’s River2D work on the Wimakeriri River
– extract all the relevant information from the corrupted Illustrator file
– assist SCIRT with importing and exporting complex multi-level attribute groups for many strings with their macro that recognises both drainage and super strings
– create the export tool they needed for working with Quickmap.

Building on these successful outcomes, ESP intends to further expand its use of 12d Model macros to drive efficiency and solve increasingly complex challenges in the future.

The Tipster: Installing 12d Model

This short video takes you through installing 12d Model through the 12d Model website (www.12d.com).

You’ll see how to navigate to the download link, download the Installation PDF, and join the 12d Model User Forum to learn from, and interact with, the 12d Model community.

We demonstrate finding the sample project and dataset which are provided with your installation of 12d Model (plus the folder structure that will instal with it), and display tips for learning more, such as watching previous 12d Model webinars.

Watch the video here: https://vimeo.com/848971273/494fa1bc1a

New Blog Series: The Tipster

Want some handy hints and tips for using 12d Model software?

We’re kicking off a new ‘blog series to answer some of our most frequently asked questions about 12d Model.

Our Support teams worldwide answer lots of user queries every day, and they’ve compiled a list of some that come up often; keep an eye on this space for a new ‘Tipster’ post every week, and stay ahead of the game!

Long-term 12d Modellers may remember The Tipster from our early Dirt Digger newsletters; we decided it was time for a revival!

Dirt Digger 47

We recently released the 47th Issue of our 12d newsletter, The Dirt Digger!

This issue features…

12d Model Updates

12d Model 15c1u is a major upgrade, and includes new functionality for:
– 12d Field
– Water
– GIS
– IFC 4×3
– MTF
– 12d Culverts
…and much, much more!

12d Synergy Updates

The highly anticipated V6 release brings powerful new capabilities to the platform.

12d Synergy 6 introduces:
– Forms
– BIM Viewer
– Issue Tracking
– CDE Connect
– New Integrations
…and more!

12d Tech Forum 2026

The 12d Tech Forum 2026 will highlight 12d Model 15 C1u, which will be released before the 12d Tech Forum so you can use all the new features straightaway. The event will also feature exciting updates about 12d Synergy 6.

12d Innovation Awards 2026

The 12d International Innovation Awards recognises inspired thinking and innovative solutions in civil engineering, surveying, and data management.

International Updates

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for international growth. Read about 12d Synergy’s expansion into the USA, and a new 12d Model/12d Synergy office in Vietnam!

Updates: The Civil and Surveying Institute

The Civil and Surveying Institute (CSI) is an authorised 12d Model training centre offering training programs for novices through to experienced 12d Model users.

You can view this issue online at: https://www.12d.com/Newsletter/dd47/index.html

12d Tech Forum 2026

The 12d Tech Forum offers a fantastic opportunity for engaging in educational sessions, fostering valuable connections, and networking (sometimes over dinner and drinks!) with other members of the 12d community.

The 12d Tech Forum is the top destination for 12d Model and 12d Synergy customers and partners to gain knowledge and become a part of a thriving community of industry leaders and enthusiasts. It’s where the infrastructure industry’s finest minds come to learn and share, and it aims to fuel creativity, offer practical expertise, and connect.

When and where

Dates: Sunday 26th, Monday 27th, and Tuesday 28th July 2026
Venue: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) – Plaza Level

Cost

The Full Tech Forum Package for $1,350 +GST includes:

• Welcome Event for one person
• Tech Forum Gala Dinner *for one person
• 3 Full Days of Tech Forum Main Sessions
• Any ‘Birds of a Feather’ Sessions
• Award-winning food at all Morning/Afternoon Tea Breaks and Lunches
• 12d Polo Shirt and Other Goodies!
*Includes the 12d International Innovation Awards 2026 Ceremony

Credit card payments are accepted through our online store. Day passes are also available through the 12d Tech Forum website.

What to expect

At this three-day event, 12d Solutions will be highlighting exciting features in 12d Model including new sub-versions, as well as new developments in 12d Synergy, and more! We will continue the ever-popular ‘Birds of a Feather’ breakout sessions on Design, Surveying, 12d Water, and Information Management…PLUS a new Special Interest room which will include sessions on 12d Model Macros, and a variety of other speciality topics from 12d Model and 12d Synergy.

This event will be an invaluable learning and networking experience for users of 12d products and other industry professionals, in all areas of civil design, surveying and construction, water engineering, data management, and project collaboration. This event is suitable for users of all levels of expertise.

We’ll also have an expanded Exhibition space this time, since we’re in a bigger area—this will feature stands from suppliers such as:

·  Abtrac
·  Civillo
· C.R. Kennedy
· Aptella
· 4D Prisma
· Digital Enginuiti
· ManGoes Mapping
· CHCNav

Brought to you by our Sponsors:

Gold sponsor

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Coffee Cart Sponsor

Gala Dinner Sponsor

The 12d Tech Forum offers:

• A great opportunity to increase your 12d Model/12d Synergy skills
• The ability to interact with the developers of 12d products
• The chance to network with, and learn from, other 12d users.

Reasons to attend the 12d Tech Forum 2026

#1 Gain Invaluable Education and Training

Whether you’re a tech newbie or a super user, the 12d Tech Forum is the perfect place to equip your team with invaluable tips and tricks that will boost efficiency and productivity. Discover the latest software updates, industry trends, and best practices to help your team stay ahead of the curve.

#2 Expand Your Network

The 12d Tech Forum isn’t just about education and training – it’s also a fantastic opportunity to connect with other professionals in your field. Rub shoulders with industry peers, make valuable connections, and exchange ideas that could take your career or business to the next level.

#3 Get Inspired by Industry Leaders

Elevate your knowledge and gain valuable insights from the 12d Model and 12d Synergy leaders themselves. Learn about the latest technological trends and advancements that will shape the future of the industry. Discover innovative solutions and strategies to help you take your business to the next level.

#4 Unleash Your Potential

The 12d Tech Forum offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, with access to the latest industry trends, practices, and innovations. Expand your knowledge and network with like-minded individuals who share your passion for technology.

#5 Join the 12d Community and Thrive Together

The 12d Tech Forum is more than just an event, it’s a chance to join a thriving community. Connect with the 12d Model and 12d Synergy teams, including executives, to share your knowledge and gain valuable insights from experts in the field. Make lifelong friends and be a part of a community that has been growing and thriving for over 30 years.

#6 Celebrate the Industry’s Achievements and Have Fun!

Our Innovation Awards Ceremony is the highlight of the event. Attend the Tech Forum Gala Dinner to applaud the ground-breaking work and extraordinary achievements of the global 12d Community.

Registrations have been rolling in; let’s get excited together…register today!

New Blog Series: The History Files

Coming soon…

This new series of blog posts will delve into some of our favourite customer case studies from throughout the history of 12d products.

Real-world scenarios are always a good way of understanding the context of how 12d Model has been used.

From its inception in 1988, 12d Model software has seen 12d Modellers use the software for a variety of projects; we’ve always loved to showcase these interesting stories – on our website, in our long-running newsletter The Dirt Digger, and sometimes in industry publications.

This series will take you back through case studies from the past 38 years – join us in ‘brushing the dust off’ these stories worthy of another read!

Look for the ‘History Files’ in https://blog.12d.com/ in coming weeks – we’ll share a “new old” story each week!

[Image credit: Clker-Free-Vector-Images]