Elements to Consider in 3D BIM Coordination

Why is 3D BIM coordination so crucial to building design?

There are several elements to consider in 3D BIM coordination, and one of the first places to start the process is with a 3D coordinated model. Integrating architectural, structural and MEP trades together into a coordinated 3D model is part of the 3D BIM (building information modelling) coordination process. The BIM process is an effective 3D modelling tool that helps generate precise, accurate 3D coordinated models during the design development of a construction project. With a fully coordinated BIM model, users can see just how the architectural, MEP and structural systems have been coordinated in a 3D environment, and making changes becomes easy.

The process of 3D BIM coordination involves recording, using and reviewing detailed data about a building’s physical functions. The information can also be used to prepare task schedules in 4D, calculate project costs and material take-offs and optimise the sustainability of the overall business design. One way of looking at BIM coordination is to think of it as being a grouping together of 3 distinct functions, namely:

• Actual physical construction (building)
• Coordination of detailed data (information)
• Coordination of an accurate 3D model (modelling)

or BIM.

What is interesting about BIM coordination is that it involves much more than just modelling. It includes data and construction management responsibilities and improves efficiency in terms of saving costs and time and enables more informed decision-making.

A useful function of 3D BIM coordinated models is that they are used to perform clash-detection processes. A 3D BIM coordinated model can help find any clashes, interferences or shortcomings between architectural, structural and MEP systems. One of the most popular software used for this process is Revit, which has advanced features to help merge the different disciplines of the model effectively, helping architects, structural engineers and MEP engineers.

Models can also be studied to determine complex space allocation and how the different MEP trades can fit into the available space. Each of the building’s deliverables involving data-related tasks can be easily and clearly identified, tracked and coordinated at any point or stage of the project’s life cycle. Building risers, plant rooms, prefabricated corridors and ceiling modules can also be coordinated using quality checks in the process of BIM coordination.

Management tasks, such as common data environment (CDE) information management processes, are performed to support data exchange and help both model and data integration and coordination. Also included as part of the 3D BIM coordination process are constructability reviews, clash detection reports, virtual/personal coordination meetings with consultants, construction/project managers, sub-contractors, architects and engineers.

There are several benefits to be gained from using 3D BIM coordination, such as:

• Reduced errors by the construction team and design team
• Streamlined workflows in accordance with global standards
• Reduction of construction material waste
• Savings on total costs and project time
• Improved technology and innovative ways to maximise project value

A significant part of 3D BIM coordination involves BIM services, specifically MEP BIM, architectural BIM and structural BIM processes. These BIM services combine data from individual architectural, structural and MEP drawings, using Revit and Navisworks, to help generate intelligent BIM models that feature the following functions and products:

• Coordination
• Fabrication
• Optimisation
• Installation
• MEP engineering
• MEP BIM coordination
• MEP shop drawings
• MEP 3D modelling
• Mechanical room modelling
• Builders work drawings
• As-built drafting
• Piping spool drawings
• MEP quantity take-offs

Since the MEP systems of any building is crucial, it’s critical to be aware of some of the detailed MEP BIM modelling and drafting services available. They include:

• Mechanical equipment modelling
• Diffuser and grill modelling
• Electrical lighting fixture drafting and modelling
• Layout modelling
• Plumbing layout modelling
• Sanitary fixture Revit modelling
• Walk-throughs of MEP/BIM models
• Revit MEP Families Parametric modelling

Common Elements to Consider  

The classification of 3D BIM coordination can be as follows:

MEP BIM

Electrical Systems

• Electrical site plans
• Electrical one-line diagrams (riser diagrams)
• Electrical schematics
• Solar panel detailing
• Electrical, power and lighting plans

Plumbing Systems

• Drafting services for domestic water plumbing
• Plumbing and drainage drafting services
• Location and coordination of pipe sleeve requirements
• Isometrics, riser diagrams, details, schematics and schedules
• Sleeve/Penetration Drawings

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) Systems

• Equipment schedules
• Compressed air and medical gas system plan drawings
• Demolition and existing plan drawings
• Equipment piping sizing and design layout plan drawings
• HVAC system drafting
• Details, schematics, schedules, legends and control diagrams
• As-built drawings, equipment specifications, coordination drawings, shop drawings and addendums
• Mechanical equipment layouts, submittals and elevation drawings

Heating Systems

• Boilers
• Direct vents
• Space heaters
• Indoor coil systems
• Heat pumps
• Wall and floor furnaces
• Forced hot air/water
• Thermostats
• Natural gas heating
• Heat pumps – standard and ground source

Ventilation Systems

• Overhead units
• Ductless split systems
• Sheet metal ducts
• Humidifiers/Dehumidifiers
• Central air systems
• Window/rooftop unit systems
• Air cleaners and filters
• Cooling Systems
• Air conditioners
• Air handlers

Architectural BIM

Using the BIM methodology, architects can develop digital design simulations capable of managing the vast stores of information that is part of an architectural project. Besides the 3D characteristics of models, BIM can incorporate 4D (time) and 5D (costs) associated with a project. Stakeholders can access and manage data intelligently and several processes can be automated, such as programming, conceptual design, detailed design, analysis, documentation, manufacturing, construction logistics, operation, maintenance and renovation/demolition.

Libraries of architectural models are available online, providing elements that can easily be incorporated into a project, saving time. This way, data is loaded, the quality of work can be improved, and the amount of decision-making and modifications made can be reduced, lowering both time and costs. 

Importantly, these elements, with unique characteristics, can be parametrically related to other project elements, which means that any changes on one element will effect automatic changes to other elements that are connected to or dependent on the first element. Thus, architects can interact with clients, builders and engineers in a shared process.

Structural BIM

The methodology of structural BIM modelling enables design analysis and review of structural elements in a project to further improve the overall design process. Structural BIM services consist primarily of 3D modelling, detailing and drafting. The analysis of these services results in cost-effective design and improves the safety of the design. Building geometry, location and space data, building properties, building materials and resources are better understood with structural BIM services. Some of the major structural BIM services are the following:

• Structural analysis
• Structural design
• 3D modelling 
• Steel structure detailing
• Creation of 3D, 4D and 5D BIM services
• Extraction of structural components
• High-quality construction documents
• Clash detection and risk management
• Intelligent parametric library development
• Precise quantity take-offs and cost estimates

With the help of BIM services, design errors are reduced from the improved coordination and communication of decisions. Thus, the main benefits of BIM services include:

• Better communication
• Faster approvals
• Improved coordination
• Easy modifications of design 
• Reduced errors
• Reduced time to create drawings and revisions
• Improved performance analysis, evaluation
• Improved project efficiency 

There are many elements to consider in 3D BIM coordination, and there are many ways to utilise and optimise the benefits resulting from 3D BIM coordination. Typically, the processes of 3D BIM coordination require the expertise and experience of several stakeholders, sometimes separated by countries. Many Western construction firms opt to outsources these processes to countries further east, such as India, since they have large groups of technically qualified, experienced, English-speaking personnel who deliver these BIM services accurately, clash-free, on schedule and cost-effectively. Bringing together clash-free MEP, structural and architectural systems after careful consideration of its many elements, high-quality 3D BIM coordination services remain an essential part of modern construction.

Key Points of MEP Systems & Coordination for Sports Entertainment Venue

As long ago as 776 BC, the Greeks are believed to have participated in the first Olympics to honour Zeus in Olympia, a sanctuary site for Greek deities. The stadium of ancient days has progressed in leaps and bounds and the deities have changed, but the passions incited and contained in sporting stadia still remain. Stadia design today takes far more into consideration than contestants’ comfort and the impact of raucous spectators. Sports venues today strive to integrate sustainability, perfect lighting, ventilation and plumbing in their design. It is the coordination of MEP (M&E) systems and other disciplines that ultimately ensures a stable and comfortable sporting venue for the great celebration of sport and spectator facilities and hospitality arrangements, as well as a myriad additional uses for the venues, such as concerts and conferences. MEP coordination is critical for the success of sporting venues on various levels, and the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology has been crucial for its success.

Sports venues play a special role in enhancing life as we know it. Therefore, MEP engineering designs for sporting venues must be developed and executed in a significantly different manner from other structures. We look at the key points of MEP systems and MEP coordination where these differences matter most. Lighting that is reliable, purposeful and aesthetically comfortable is a major consideration. Since sporting venues must cater to varied occupancy, open areas (including spaces with retractable roofs) and unusually shaped spaces (circular, oval, etc.), these venues experience near-constant fluctuation of temperature and illumination. Air flow must be adjusted to maintain varying temperature, and thermostats, light switches, etc. must not clash with wall coverings or the aesthetic theme. Once these individual concerns are addressed, challenges may lie in the precise coordination of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems with architectural and structural constraints.

So, what is MEP coordination?

Essentially, MEP coordination is the clash-free integration of all building services within the context of architectural and structural disciplines of a building (steel, concrete, etc.). For sports venues, the MEP challenges are different than for other buildings.

MEP Challenges for Sports Entertainment Venues

• Facility layout with structural and architectural designs, spectator seats, requirements of playing turfs, etc. need to be perfected by industry professionals.
• HVAC equipment must be accommodated in general spaces and the power supply must be uninterrupted for multiple lighting systems across the venue.
• Effective plumbing design is essential for a sports venue where large numbers of spectators can be expected to use rest rooms at the same time. In fact, there is every likelihood that 50 percent of the occupants of a sports entertainment venue use the facilities within the same 30 minutes. Water supply and drainage must operate seamlessly.
• A venue’s geography is another consideration. A French, Spanish, Italian, Russian or English football stadium may vary in architecture and differences due to climate, traditions and national design features. Consequently, the MEP layout will also vary.
• Grandstands, VIP boxes and infield areas present unique fire safety challenges.

Some of the specific design challenges that must be considered during MEP coordination are found below.

Emergency power supply is of utmost importance at a sporting venue. Electrical components and switchgear equipment must be designed without a single faulty point and should handle varying electrical power demands. This could be an oil-powered generator, the grid supply or UPS power with batteries. Large venues would ideally benefit from a diesel generator to run emergency and standby loads. These options need to be integrated with both the other services of MEP and with the other disciplines of the structure.

• Large lobbies in sporting venues sometimes have wide curtain walls, which enable natural light variations. Light photocells can be used to measure ambient light and save energy. Sensors that detect occupancy levels can shut off unnecessary lights and save energy.
• Photovoltaic systems can be used for renewable energy systems and must be factored in to MEP coordination.
• Sports venues have started receiving requests for electric car charging stations. This demand is set to increase, and MEP engineers must consider how these stations work with the rest of the MEP design and the building’s structural and architectural elements.
• Cable trays are a preferred primary pathway due to accessibility and ease of maintenance, but access to cable trays can be tricky because of coordination with ductwork, piping, light fixtures, conduits, etc. 

One of the most vital issues in sporting venues is the size and placement of HVAC units. Extensive ductwork is required to supply and return air, depending on the placement of the units. Typical considerations consist of dehumidification and high latent loads. Vast and varied use of the premises may lead to air distribution challenges. Irregular swings in outside air need to be controlled. 

• Open areas can use passive shading methods and thermal energy storage (TES), so that during times of low demand, cooling can be generated.
• Areas with large occupancy numbers generate corresponding amounts of carbon dioxide. These areas can use carbon dioxide sensors, energy recovery systems and enthalpy economisers.
• Variable air volume (VAV) systems or single-zone VAV can be used in non-bowl systems.
• Large sports venues can integrate variable refrigerant flow (VRF) technology to provide effective condensing units and thereby reduce consumption.
• Smoke venting in stadia with closed roofs need roofs which can open when required. Smoke management can complicate HVAC design, as possible fire sizes must be considered along with whether the smoke should be directed above head height for evacuation safety.
• Due to large occupancy numbers, sports venues require well-ventilated spaces which also consider significant latent loads from all occupants. Humidification and dehumidification features are necessary for air handling systems, and energy can be saved through air side heat recovery. Typically, this is from exhaust air streams through run-around coils, air heat exchangers and heat pipes.
• Venues for hockey games require air to be maintained with low humidity. This may involve sub-cooling air to less than 50 F, eliminating moisture and ensuring comfort.
• In recent times, security is another factor to consider in HVAC design for sports venues. Exterior air intake locations must be secure from chemical threats.
• Rainwater reclamation systems can be used for irrigation and toilet flushing, integrating them with the structural and architectural features.
• Low-flow fixtures can reduce water usage and must be included in MEP design according to the nature of the structure.
• Excessive ceiling heights (anything more than 75 ft) in sporting venues makes automatic sprinkler protection insufficient. Venues have started to integrate deluge-type suppression systems.

The above MEP design requirements must be thoroughly considered and integrated in the process of MEP coordination, a prospect that requires detailed planning and the right tools. One such tool is Building Information Modelling (BIM).

The Role of BIM

Building Information Modelling (BIM) uses tools such as Revit to collaborate and coordinate MEP design on an integrated platform. As these projects are typically carried out by large muti-disciplinary teams, professionals can consult, edit and modify in a shared environment with an organised workflow. Contractors can use 3D BIM coordination software, such as Revit and Navisworks, to identify and prevent potential clashes in MEP design and then use tools, such as Autodesk BIM 360 or Collaboration for Revit (C4R), to work on and share models on the cloud.

Changes in MEP components and layouts may require changes in ductwork designs, fabrication and the process of laying out the systems. It is necessary to fully comprehend the design of each discipline. Hence, MEP components must be set according to the venue’s operations, and MEP engineers use BIM technology effectively to develop a fully coordinated system.

Employing MEP BIM coordination helps create accurate and precise MEP coordination drawings and final construction sets of drawings with vast volumes of data. 

BIM solutions can also help save energy consumption. For example, a sports venue in Germany used 380,000 LEDs for its circular façade using BIM technology, achieving 60 percent more efficiency than conventional lighting. 

Stadia require a flawless collaborative MEP design with the architectural and structural disciplines. BIM technology facilitates this collaborative approach, making it possible to develop impressive sports venues that are fully coordinated, keeping within budget and providing high levels of comfort and safety to all occupants. Tools used in BIM technology can check for clashes and energy consumption to help the building stay cost-effective and energy-efficient, contributing to overall sustainability.

So, what does the finished product achieve with its BIM-assisted MEP coordination? Sporting venues become all that they are meant to be, namely spaces that:

Host World-class Events

Providing spectators and players special experiences depends on interesting, comfortable and reliable structures. This can involve special lighting or retractable roofs that work seamlessly.

Showcase Innovation

Sporting venues cater to a range of different events, from world-class events to concerts to comedians or other events. Multi-use arenas must negotiate site constraints flawlessly, integrating function with aesthetics with effective coordination of MEP systems and architectural and structural features.

Are Cost-efficient and Sustainable

Construction challenges cannot delay opening matches. Imposing structures must be constructed on schedule and function cost-effectively and with efficiency in energy consumption. MEP BIM coordination enables timely and reliable construction.

So, even though effective MEP coordination for new or renovated sports venues may be challenging for MEP engineers and architects, meticulous collaboration, creativity and hard work can help coordinate large-scale building services with high-priced real estate and architectural elements for a comfortable, reliable and aesthetically attractive sports entertainment venue.

Key to Success in Implementing VDC

The virtual building design industry is seeing an upward trend worldwide and one of the key components driving this trend is the successful implementation of VDC. Virtual design and construction (VDC) is a process that provides a single platform for all project stakeholders to collaborate and make changes in a project, while working to budgets and deadlines. One of the main features of VDC is that it uses models and data to encourage regular communication between all stakeholders right till completion. What optimises success with VDC is the contribution of qualified professionals who deliver services quickly and at lower cost.

One of the benefits clients enjoy from the VDC process is that they are provided with building information modelling (BIM) capabilities and information that help in design, project planning and construction. Collaboration between clients and contractors at earlier stages are enabled by the use of VDC. Thus, the need for rework is reduced, and project time and costs are saved.

Changes are managed, workflow is collaborated, and documents are monitored in VDC. By identifying key goals, technical concerns are addressed early on. A cloud-based working environment helps collaboration in VDC. BIM in the construction industry facilitates the creation of a single model from design specifications, RFIs and equipment data sheets, helping clients monitor the progression of the project.

Thus, VDC helps firms to:

• Envision, modify and improve a project without wasting time or materials
• Collaborate between contractors or subcontractors and clients
• Establish sustainable elements into design
• Track labour, materials and schedules for project completion
• Provide digital delivery of plans for fabrication

Consultants and MEP professionals must work effectively for the overall success of the VDC process. Consultants manage design, but coordination and installation are usually handled by separate trades – mechanical, electrical, plumbing, etc. Smooth implementation of VDC benefits all stakeholders concerned. By using BIM 360 Glue or Revit BIM software tools during design phase coordination, the model can be sent from design to construction. Also, coordination in VDC facilitates prefabrication. BIM modelling tools in VDC streamlines MEP coordination, identifying and resolving conflicts.

The results of successful and effective VDC implementation include:

• Complete fabrication of MEP elements
• Reduction of rework for mechanical subcontractors 
• Less conflicts at field installations
• Fewer RFIs occur in MEP coordination
• Significant savings in cost and time

Usually, coordination and installation are carried out by separate trades in the VDC process. Each may not have enough skills or resources to fully implement effective VDC, so profitable and timely delivery of projects could benefit from the right design partner. 

Advantage of Overseas VDC Experts

General contractors usually have their own teams, but they do not always have enough modelling resources or the required skillset. VDC implementation requires expertise in handling precise data with the right tools.

It is, therefore, preferable to employ a VDC expert from the relevant disciplines, who brings technical knowhow and experience in BIM virtual construction to the table. Western firms increasingly find that such experts are being located overseas, especially with experienced partners who have a large pool of qualified technical professionals and extensive experience working in the US, UK and other Western markets, leading to accurate design services, greater profits and on-time deliveries.

Benefits of Collaboration for Revit (C4R) in Construction

Construction projects today involve teams working simultaneously from wide-ranging geographical areas, across towns, states or even countries. These teams coordinate on the same project at the same time, using a work-sharing method that is efficient, transparent and extremely accurate. Revit Architecture services used with Collaboration for Revit (C4R) for 3D BIM coordination plays an important role in fulfilling this requirement. 

A cloud-based worksharing tool, Collaboration for Revit (or C4R) is hosted on the cloud. BIM 360 Team (formally A360 Team) is required for users wishing to upload Revit files to C4R. In the event that a stakeholder does not have Revit and C4R, they can use a web browser to access BIM 360 Team for ‘view only’ access, which provides a range of marking up and viewing formats to use. They can preview models, upload and download other project documents too. All team members can access central models stored in a file at a network location. 

As cloud computing is increasingly used for storage, sharing and hosting of models, the need to use a tool that brings a team together with minimal training time and maintenance is required. Using BIM 360 Team, C4R provides access to, and collaboration on, central Revit models on the cloud to project teams across varied disciplines, locations and companies, so that stakeholders from any location can add, delete or modify elements of the project at any point. This way, changes can be reviewed by others and necessary action can be taken. In effect, C4R allows countrywide or international teams to work simultaneously across different time zones and collaborate in real-time, a form of Revit work sharing.

C4R Uses BIM 360 Team: C4R hosts a Revit model in a centralised location called the BIM 360 Team Hub. A BIM 360 Team Hub must be created before a model can be shared via C4R. Thus, the cloud can be used to share, store and communicate. 

For Revit users, C4R need not be separately installed. It is part of Revit and provides several options in the ‘Collaborate’ tab. Revit users will however need to be assigned to a BIM 360 Team project to use C4R features. 

Easy Communication: C4R Communicator is a chat feature in Revit, with extras. Communicator connects users in the same model, in a different model but same project, or in a completely different C4R project. Chats are in real time and communication includes sending messages, files, screen shots from Revit and even the chat log. Timeline tracks comments, who is synchronising in real time, who completed and when it was completed.

Integrated Project Delivery: C4R facilitates the sharing of server requirements and centralised systems by joint design ventures from separate locations. This allows architects and engineers to communicate and share data easily and practice informed decision-making.

Cloud-based Technology: 

Since most C4R tools are cloud-based, methods and client involvement enjoy almost total flexibility, greatly reducing downtime and rework. 

• Management – Permissions and restrictions set up in a BIM 360 Team project in Revit help manage the models.
• BIM 360 Integration – Stakeholders, non-Revit users also, can view, comment and mark up models through a browser.
• Communicator Tool – Communications can be on direct, real-time chat in C4R, within BIM project models.
• Publishing Tool – Models and 2D sheets in the cloud are published with the default 3D view, allowing communication between disciplines after updating changes. 

Financially, C4R projects save an average of 30 minutes per individual team member every week. Over an entire year, this could mean that C4R can pay for itself while providing significant advantages to project teams.

Technical Issues and Autodesk Support

The platform is actively supported by Autodesk to ensure uptime. Some examples of technical issues and how they are dealt with include:

When there are bottlenecks in the code, capacity scaling under varying loads, intermittent connectivity: -Product teams across the cloud ensure that services have the right approaches and architecture to carry out their operations consistently and with high levels of reliability.

When there are degradations or outages - Services are designed so that dependencies are ‘soft’ and don't bring down core products.

When there is deviation from operational behaviour - Services are constantly logging operation results for ‘health checks’. Notifications of deviation of behaviour occur within minutes and can be rectified quickly. In addition, data trends are studied for usage patterns to improve capacity. 

Ultimately, C4R may be a better fit for many firms that require easy-to-use and easy-to-operate cloud-based solutions for collaborating on their projects. Unlike so many forerunners in the online collaboration industry, C4R actually allows collaboration and working on the same model and files rather than act as a sophisticated file exchange system.

How Open BIM Facilitates Collaborative Design?

Due to its multifaceted benefits, building information modelling (BIM) is rapidly gaining traction in the AEC industry as the key pre-construction planning, construction management, and post-construction facilities management tool. Whilst many firms have transitioned to this ‘intelligent’ model-based process, the ‘real’ potential of BIM can only be achieved by open exchange of design and non-design project information amongst key project stakeholders: architects, structural engineers, MEP design consultants, MEP engineers, and other trade subcontractors.

A common challenge faced by mid-sized to large projects is that not all project participants use the same BIM application. This is where the concept of closed BIM and open BIM comes into play. The above two approaches are fundamentally different ways of looking at 3D BIM modelling.

                                                                                           

Closed BIM, also known as ‘lonely BIM’, is a BIM environment wherein the same version of a BIM application is used by all key project stakeholders. This approach may also include different trades using the BIM-compatible applications from the same vendor. As a case in point, the lead architect uses Revit Architecture to model architectural elements. The structural engineer uses Revit Structure to take the architectural BIM model as the reference and define the building’s structure whilst the MEP design consultant uses Revit MEP to model building services. Although no file conversion is required in the closed BIM approach, the process is restrictive in the sense that it only allows project participants well-versed with certain BIM tools to collaborate, thereby not allowing ‘true’ integration.

On the other hand, open BIM is a workflow wherein all participants can collaborate and exchange project information with each other using non-proprietary, neutral file formats irrespective of the BIM tools and applications they use. The information exchanged is not only limited to the BIM model’s geometric data but also includes other parametric data, such as specifications, quantity take-offs, material procurement, cost estimation, and construction phasing. Most common open BIM protocols currently in use include Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie).  

Whilst IFC allows exchange of both geometric and non-design data amongst different applications that support open BIM, COBie only allows facilities management data to be exchanged. Using IFC, the architectural BIM model created by the lead architect’s design team in Graphisoft ArchiCAD can be opened and manipulated by the structural engineer when his/her team works in Tekla Structures. Similarly, the integrated architectural and structural BIM model can be imported into Revit MEP platform by the lead MEP consultant. Once the detailed MEP design is complete, the federated model can be taken into a clash detection and 3D BIM coordination tool, such as Navisworks again using IFC format. This leads to workflow-level collaboration amongst key project members which is the essence of BIM compared to the conventional 2D CAD workflows.  

At XS CAD, we have an extensive know-how of both open BIM and closed BIM methodologies due to the fact that we have provided 3D BIM modelling and 3D BIM coordination support to architects, MEP engineers, and contractors in the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, and India. To find out more about how your project can benefit from our BIM modelling services, contact us.

BIM: More Than Just an Extension of 3D CAD

In the AEC industry, the advent of building information modelling (BIM) concept was viewed by many as an evolution to better 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) techniques. Very few saw it as an interdisciplinary, collaborative tool that would drastically change the design-build project workflow, the management structure of AEC firms, the teaming models, the delivery standards, and the role of key disciplines involved.

As opposed to the vertical communication channels and delivery methods required by the traditional design-build approaches which mainly employ CAD, BIM necessitates an open and integrated horizontal collaboration channel between all the key stakeholders of the project: facility owners, designers/architects, MEP (M&E) engineers, consultants and contractors. To realise the benefits of employing BIM as compared to 3D CAD modelling tools, firms need to significantly invest in knowledge/skills development, personnel training, management restructuring, and software tools. However, more than these tangible investments, AEC companies need a complete change in mind set in case they want to adopt BIM for their projects.

Whilst many professionals, especially those from small and medium-sized firms, see it as an extension of 3D CAD, BIM is anything but 3D CAD. It is a much larger concept which involves extensive pre-construction planning and multidisciplinary coordination to virtually model building facilities using smart parametric objects embedded with rich accurate information. This intelligent model then can be used by all stakeholders to extract respective views and relevant information thereby resulting in timely decision-making and project delivery.

Though BIM and 3D CAD are not mutually exclusive to each other, they have major differences as far as the approach and the output is concerned. In traditional 3D CAD, depending on the scope of project, architects prepare a set of construction drawings, including the plans, sections, and elevations. Since all these views are independent entities, any change in one view has to be manually updated in others. As a result, the process is not only time-consuming but also increases the scope for errors.

On the contrary, a building information model contains the architectural, structural and MEP system models of the proposed facility. It is prepared during the design and planning stage using details from all the key stakeholders including designers, engineers, MEP contractors, and subcontractors. Since a single database-driven model represents details required by all disciplines, any changes made by any of the team members are automatically updated across the model to plans, sections and elevations. Hence, all the project team members are updated on all the changes made by others thereby saving time, reducing cost resulting from duplication of efforts, and increasing the overall quality of construction drawing sets. Thus, making small changes to the architectural plan would result in those changes appearing simultaneously in the section, elevation or schedule.

Furthermore, the building blocks of 3D CAD models are lines, circles, arcs, and other graphical entities, which lack the flexibility of data analysis. These models only serve as geometric objects devoid of detailed parameters which are required by the entire AEC supply chain. In contrast, BIM models comprise building elements and intelligent systems, including columns, beams, and walls, which contain rich data related to parameters. If needed, additional parameters can be added to the pre-existing ones for more detail. And, this rich data can be effectively shared across disciplines for rich collaboration and on-time delivery.

Nevertheless, the success of any project which employs BIM depends mainly on factors which include the richness of information embedded in the 3D models, the degree of openness in the interdisciplinary data-sharing and collaboration standards, and the level of mutual trust among all the professionals involved. If prudently planned and implemented, a BIM model not only represents the essential building elements in detail; valuable information concerning spatial coordination, geographic location, quantity take-offs, material requirements, time schedule, and project cost can be extracted when needed.

In essence, a well-planned BIM model accurately represents the entire project design lifecycle. Though preparing for and implementing BIM strategies requires considerable investment of time, money, and effort, its benefits are multi-faceted and long-term.

As a result, if your firm operates in the AEC industry and is looking for an outsourcing vendor offering a cost-effective, high-quality BIM modelling and CAD drafting services, kindly contact us.

Approaching MEP BIM Projects Using Coordination Specialists

The MEP (M&E) design and contracting industry across the globe faces renewed challenges with the advent of BIM which is increasingly used by AEC firms. Firstly, of all the major stakeholders involved in an AEC project, building systems design and engineering historically formed the last phase of design, however BIM dictates a more synchronised approach by all disciplines, requiring them to work in parallel from the early stages of AEC design. Secondly, the facility owners and investors always demand increased efficiency, waste reduction and on-time/in-budget completion.

As a result, progressive MEP engineering firms are increasingly adopting MEP (M&E) BIM practices to, a) work in parallel with other disciplines; and, b) meet complex project demands from project stakeholders.

Implementing BIM can pose a challenge as its adoption requires significant investment in equipment and training as well as changes to overall workflow and internal processes. With this in mind, many MEP engineering firm’s partner with 3D BIM modelling and building services coordination specialists, such firms possess expertise of parametric modelling and BIM development. As well as immediate expertise offered by such coordination support firms, transitioning to a BIM-based MEP workflow from a conventional CAD-based design workflow requires the type of planning and workflow streamlining that many firms are only just implementing and therefore the skills to handle such projects immediately are not in place.

Once the specialist MEP coordination firms are on board, they face the challenge of handling BIM projects and in particular maintaining a version controlled model. When using BIM for pre-construction planning and construction documentation effective communication and the use of modern collaboration platforms, usually hosted in the cloud, help to maintain a version controlled model. 

The BIM managers representing key project teams: architectural, structural, and MEP (M&E) engineering must collaborate and communicate to ensure the integrity of design data as well as adherence to project deliverables. For his/her part, the MEP (M&E) BIM manager will need to gain an insight into the architectural and structural BIM models prepared by the respective teams and use that data for his own inputs. As well as a detailed review of the current BIM standards of the project, knowing the specific components that will be used and then planning the coordination efficiently to include bracketing, lagging, access and maintenance will be taken into account. This insight can then be used to prepare an MEP central file that serves as a reference point to the downstream MEP design team.

The emerging standard of LOD (level of detail) means that the BIM manager representing the MEP (M&P) team must work to the specified LOD for the project, this will influence the detail within the drawings whether it is at the schematic design (SD), detailed design (DD) and then  construction documentation (CD) phase of the project. This ensures the model does not contain elements that are not required or will not be of any use to the trade subcontractors. Another key decision before the MEP design team starts modeling is how much custom content (parametric families) will need to be created within the BIM application in addition to the information that will need to be developed in a CAD package and linked to the BIM application.

If the above aspects are considered before initiating upon a new BIM-enabled MEP (M&E) design project, the MEP (M&E) BIM manager will serve as a primary link between the in-house design team and the architectural / structural BIM managers (who represent their respective teams). As a result, any update on the architectural or structural models will be communicated to the MEP BIM manager who can then update the MEP central file which in turn acts a point of reference for the downstream MEP design team to model upon. This sets the stage for streamlined and coordinated MEP designs using smart parametric models.

 

For more information about our dedicated MEP (M&E) BIM modelling support and coordination service for MEP (M&P) designers, consultants and contractors contact us.

As-Built Construction Assets: Key to Future Planning and Facilities Management

Preparing ‘as-built’ drawings and models is certainly one of the most crucial requirements of any design-build project. These final set of construction assets validates how the contractor built the structure including all the changes and modifications that were made in the process. The finalised drawings and models are passed on from the contractors to the building owners and property managers.

The set of as-built drawings and models, though underestimated and neglected, broadly serve a dual purpose. Firstly, the as-built drawings and models act as a guidebook to the AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction) firms that are contracted for renovation and refurbishment of an existing structure. So, the time, cost, and resources that would have been utilised during pre-renovation survey are saved. Secondly, they help owners and facilities managers to conveniently undertake maintenance and refurbishment activities besides helping them during emergency situations e.g. for rapid evacuation.

Whereas data-rich as-built 3D building information models have obvious benefits over 2D drawing sets, the decision to choose one over the other mainly involves factors, such as the scale of the project, owner’s preference, and the design-build teaming structure. The owners of relatively small building projects may prefer 2D as-built drawings of an existing building, prepared by a technician after collecting accurate data on site. On the contrary, large-scale design-build and renovation projects may require BIM-driven as-built 3D models.

Assuming that the project in question has not had a BIM model for the design process which is then updated during the as-built stage of the project, there are two typical ways of preparing as-built BIM models. Firstly, using the as-built drawings and other construction drawing sets as the starting point, 3D BIM models can be prepared using applications such as Autodesk Revit. The second method involves the Scan to BIM technique where   point cloud data of the structures. This point cloud data is then converted into an intelligent BIM model using tools such as Cloudworx and Scan to BIM applications such as Revit.

The as-built drawings and BIM models serve as a comprehensive reference tool for owners and property managers. They benefit from these as-built drawings and models in the following ways:-

·     The finalised as-built construction assets make future project planning, including renovations, extensions, and redevelopments, convenient and cost effective for the owners.

·     Since the as-built drawings and BIM models contain complete details related to dimensions, fabrication, erection, elevations, sizing, materials, location, and mechanical/electrical/plumbing utilities, the owners can use this data and conveniently manage facilities within budget.

·     The owners can use these as-built assets to resolve disputes regarding insurance claims. In case of a massive loss due to extreme disasters, the insurance company will require extensive documentation, including the as-built drawings and models to support your claims.

As the as-built drawings and models are prepared by combining the drawings/models of all the building services, the owners and property managers can schedule maintenance operations of the building’s MEP (M&E) systems in a timely manner.