Methvin Takeoff App – Advanced Variable-Based Measurement

The Methvin Takeoff App enhances precision and flexibility by dynamically adding variables as you measure. Each measurement captures key attributes, which can be leveraged in equations within the equation field. This allows users to manipulate quantities and derive multiple results from a single takeoff.

By linking multiple Bill of Quantities (BoQ) lines to a single measurement, you can apply different equations to each line. This means that a single takeoff can generate multiple calculated outputs, streamlining the estimating process and improving accuracy.

Measurement Tools & Associated Variables

Count Tool

• [c] Count – Counts the total number of selected elements.

Area Measurement

• [c] Count – Counts the total number of area elements included in the measurement.
• [a] Plan Area – Captures the total area of the measured elements.
• [p] Perimeter – Records the perimeter of the measured area.

Length Measurement

• [c] Count – Counts the total number of length-based elements in the measurement.
• [l] Length – Measures the total length of the element(s).

Additional Detail Variables

For more complex measurements, additional attributes can be applied to each element:

• [gp] Pitch/Grade – Defines the slope of a roof, road, or any other inclined element.
• [g] Pitch/Grade Angle – Represents the angle of the measured slope.

Efficient Data Handling in the Dimensions Tab

All these variables are organized under the Dimensions tab at the bottom half of the left grid, allowing users to efficiently reference and modify measurement details as needed.

This approach ensures that takeoff data remains highly adaptable, supporting more accurate cost estimation and project planning.

Supported Equations and Functions

Methvin provides a variety of functions to streamline calculations, whether you're managing complex construction projects or handling simpler measurements. These functions are designed to improve accuracy and simplify your workflow. Methvin supports a wide range of functions, including basic arithmetic, advanced JavaScript-based calculations, and date functions for managing project timelines. These functions are categorized into the following sections:

1. Quick Functions
2. JavaScript Math Functions
3. JavaScript Date Functions

1. Quick Functions

 These are commonly used functions for quick calculations.

Density of Mild steel

• [skg]: Returns the density of mild steel in kg/m³.
  • Example: [skg] returns 7850.
• [slb]: Returns the density of mild steel in lb/ft³.
  • Example: [slb] returns 490.636.

Mathematical Constants

• [PI]: Returns the mathematical constant pi (π), approximately 3.14159.
  • Example: [PI] returns 3.14159.

Using Global Variables in Equations

Global variables are user-defined values set within the estimating application. These variables can be seamlessly utilized in the Takeoff Tool’s equation field, allowing for automated calculations based on predefined project-wide values.

By incorporating global variables, users can efficiently standardize and automate measurements that share a common value across multiple takeoff elements.

Examples of Global Variables:

• [CD_GV] – Contract Duration
• [NF_GV] – Number of Floors
• [GPA_GV] – Gross Plan Area
• [WH_GV] – Working Hours on Site

This functionality enhances consistency and accuracy in estimating, ensuring that key project parameters are applied uniformly across all relevant calculations.

Power Calculation

• Computes the power of a number.
  • Example: 2^3 returns 8.

Square Root

• Computes the square root of a number.
  • Example: 4^(1/2) returns 2.

Conditional Statements

• Performs logic-based outcomes based on conditions.
  • Example: if(10 > 5) {55} else {66} returns 55.

Bill Item Quantity

• [qty]: Returns the quantity associated with a bill item.
  • Example: [qty] returns 100 (or the specified quantity).

2. JavaScript Math Functions

These functions utilize JavaScript for advanced mathematical operations.

Basic Math Functions

• E: Euler’s constant, approximately 2.718.
  • Example: Math.E returns 2.718.
• PI or [PI]: Returns the mathematical constant pi (π).
  • Example: Math.PI returns 3.14159.

Logarithmic Functions

• LN(x): Returns the natural logarithm of x.
  • Example: Math.LN(2) returns 0.693.
• log(x): Computes the natural logarithm of x.
  • Example: Math.log(10) returns 2.3026.
• LOG(x)E: Calculates the logarithm of x in base E.
  • Example: Math.LOG(2) returns 0.3010.

Rounding Functions

• ceil(x): Rounds x up to the nearest integer.
  • Example: Math.ceil(2.1) returns 3.
• floor(x): Rounds x down to the nearest integer.
  • Example: Math.floor(2.9) returns 2.
• round(x): Rounds x to the nearest integer.
  • Example: Math.round(2.5) returns 3.
• toFixed(n): Rounds x to n decimal places.
  • Example: 2.567.toFixed(2) returns 2.57.

Other Math Functions

• min(x, y, z, ...): Returns the smallest value from a list of arguments.
  • Example: Math.min(0, 150, 30, -200, -8) returns -200.
• max(x, y, z, ...): Returns the largest value from a list of arguments.
  • Example: Math.max(0, 150, 30, 20, -8) returns 150.
• SQRT(x): Computes the square root of x.
  • Example: Math.SQRT(9) returns 3.
• sin(x): Calculates the sine of an angle in radians.
  • Example: Math.sin(Math.PI / 2) returns 1.