BIM May Cost More to Plan, but Saves Construction Costs

It’s a question of sound strategy in the construction industry. Using BIM (Building Information Modelling) helps prevent construction firms from being ‘penny wise and pound foolish’. Traditional CAD (computer-aided design) technology has served the industry well, but the emergence of BIM technology and 3D BIM services on the construction scene has transformed project planning to a new high. The advantages of 3D BIM modelling services and BIM coordination services are many, including overall construction cost savings, and these advantages far outweigh the initial expense involved in incorporating a BIM workflow.

So, how did CAD technology help provide design services and how does BIM differ?

Both the features and working methods are different. To represent design details in CAD, designers needed to draw many lines, polylines and geometrical shapes to represent doors, windows, walls, columns, etc. in floor plans, elevation views, cross-sections, etc. With BIM technology, the same details can be represented using 3D graphical objects with a host of properties and functions. Detailed working drawings and construction documents can thus be developed automatically with these intelligent objects.

Using CAD software packages, novices can use its tools to create 2D drawings and basic 3D models. Experienced users can develop them into complex models, and CAD software can even help find errors. Some CAD packages also create documentation, but the advantages of BIM, though, are far more extensive. They include the following:

• Saving Time

Using BIM software, lines and related features can be updated throughout the project, leaving designers with time to devote to the project’s creativity. Objects from a BIM menu have predefined data that can be used to calculate project costs, thermal performance, maintenance costs and structural costs, leading to considerable savings in construction time and costs, rather than discovering these costs on an ad-hoc basis for each project.

• Reducing Errors

When there are changes in a project’s floor plans, elevations or section views, those changes are incorporated into all related project features automatically. For example, if a building façade’s finish is altered, changes are implemented automatically for the wall’s transmittance value, its cost and its structural load. Using BIM technology, mistakes can be avoided, and most importantly, all the drawings will be updated immediately with any revisions, saving overall construction costs.

• Integrating with Design Aspects

Once a BIM model is created, data can be added that enables complete integration with:

1. structural calculations
2. energy performance calculations
3. construction estimating
4. technical installations
5. maintenance and facility management

This feature of BIM technology saves significant effort and time, which translates into cost savings.

• Representing Completely

A building’s design is completely represented using BIM methods. In addition to the building’s core components, BIM technology enables the design of MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) systems, helping the project team use space and resources to their best advantage. Ultimately, this results in saving construction expenses.

• Working Simultaneously

A single database can host all the documents in a BIM environment, so that several project stakeholders can access, modify and work on the same model and save their work to the cloud. This facilitates instant updates, and there is no need to spend time searching for documents that require changes.

• Prefabricating Components

Components can be prefabricated early in the construction process, using BIM models. In case the building design changes, the components can still be used, saving both time and money.

• Updating Constantly

Constantly and automatically updating documents and models allows clients the freedom to check the design at any time, which can lead to quick approvals and implementation.

• Tracking Resources

Using BIM models, it becomes easy to track the required quantity of resources during any of the design stages, improving the efficiency of the construction workflow and saving costs.


These advantages come with a cost, especially during the initial stage of establishing a BIM methodology. The BIM-enabled software options can be expensive. The new work methodology using BIM technology necessitates investment in new technology and training to use it. For smaller firms, this may seem to be an excessive and avoidable expense.

However, choosing to go the BIM way can be critical to profitable gains, and the selection of BIM software is a key factor. The current popular choice, Revit, can be used in combination with rendering and virtual reality packages to create detailed and complex models.

All aspects of a project’s workflow are affected by the BIM methodology. Therefore, training is important for everyone involved. In some cases, it may take up to 3 months to develop an understanding of BIM.

So, how can the cost of BIM be calculated?

In addition to depicting different trades in a coordinated model, BIM technology can provide much more. It can be confusing to decide how to best calculate the cost of BIM technology and services. The following factors are key considerations:

• Services Wanted

Firms must decide what services they want, such as:

1. BIM Modelling Services
2. BIM Consulting Services
3. BIM Project Management Services
4. BIM Preconstruction Services
5. BIM Facility Management 

• To Outsource or Not

Certain basic costs must be met for any project, such as employing a project BIM manager and coordinator, and these costs may not be easily affordable for some firms. Many consider outsourcing the required services to offshore destinations, where they can be delivered at a more affordable rate and still maintain high standards of quality.

• Charges for BIM Methods

It’s important to understand how BIM services providers charge for their services. Two methods that are more commonly used are:

     -  BIM Price per Sq.m – charges are for the built-up area of the project, based on the requested Level of Development (LOD) and the required trades.

     -  BIM Price per Hour – charges are based on an estimation of the expected hours for the service for a specific scope

How does BIM save project costs in the long run? Well, these are some of the ways:

• Effective specification of the building plan using BIM means that the right choice of building materials will be used. They will have the right thermal performance, be of the right quantity and of the right price.
• Identifying errors at the design stage in a BIM format will cost less than rectifying them during the construction process.
• Proper planning in a BIM process ensures that a detailed schedule of materials is generated. Suppliers can be provided a complete schedule, which means that deals can be negotiated early on and reordering can be avoided due to supplies running short.
• Projects can be delivered within specified time schedules, using the BIM process, so that costs are saved on labour and any penalties for overshooting the delivery date. 
• Designing, detailing and estimating at the same time helps save time, which always saves money.
• Costs associated with re-drawing, re-scheduling and re-estimating are saved using the BIM methodology.
• Errors and data loss are minimised or even eliminated, since details and costs are updated automatically for any changes in the drawing while using BIM technology.

The advantages of using BIM are too many and too far-reaching to discount. With the right BIM service providers, a range of residential design drawings, residential construction drawings, architectural BIM services, 3D BIM modelling services and BIM coordination services can be availed at a reasonable cost, without compromising on quality. Global options for 3D BIM services offer partnerships with experienced, technically well-qualified and cost-efficient partners who will deliver on time and within budget. So, even if the initial costs for implementing a BIM methodology may be slightly expensive, it is bound to save certain construction costs in the long run.

Why Changes in Gas-Petrol Stations Impact their Architectural Design

Change is everywhere, even at gas, or petrol, or filling stations. As people and lifestyles changed with advances in technology, so did gas stations. No longer a quaint station to fill gas or petrol, these fuel retailers slowly evolved to include the several conveniences consumers expect to be available almost everywhere today. This meant that the architectural design of gas stations has had to adapt. Along with qualified and certified designers, these designs need high-quality 3D architectural visualisation services to deliver accurate retail design drawings.

There was a time when gas stations across the world used to feature a generic design, when rural petrol stations had cosy waiting rooms or featured Art Deco designs and consisted of simple layouts. Then, a series of changes, such as the transfer of large populations to dense urban conclaves, resulted in extensive and efficient public transport systems. Another change had to do with what humans were doing to the planet in terms of the rampant and irresponsible use of fossil fuels, resulting in the development of electric alternatives. Both these changes meant that there would be a difference in the number of people using gas stations to fill fuel in their cars. As the services offered by gas stations changed, the design of gas stations was bound to follow suit.

Electric cars are appearing in cities with regular frequency and are finding charging points at gas stations, where the idea is to charge the electric vehicle in 30 minutes. In addition, cafes, supermarkets, lounges with high-speed internet and information hubs for electric vehicle maintenance can also be featured at modern gas stations. 

As the population of electric cars increase, they may have their own charging stations and thus become a new kind of gas station. This will lead to decreased traffic at downtown gas stations, due to more people charging their cars at offices and homes. It has even been proposed that retro drive-in restaurant cinemas can be attached to vehicle charging points.

Architectural design will have to consider new plot sizes, infrastructure, aesthetics and locations that straddle both urban and rural areas. The possibilities for design to incorporate retail and improve user experience are almost endless. 

Changes in Fuel Retail

Trends that have caused an upheaval in fuel retail stations are as follows:

• Increasing popularity of alternative fuels, such as electricity
• New kinds of transport
• Increased expectations by consumers, who want the availability of modern conveniences
• Arrival of new digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) to robotics to the Internet of Things (IoT).

These trends must be catered to in architectural design, and digital tools can be used to alter layouts of the new gas stations. The gas station business model now has to adopt a customer-centric plan rather than the vehicle-centric one. Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT) and automation can all help further the cause.

Alternative fuels are also being developed with the assistance of established car manufacturers, such as: 

• Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
• Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
• Compressed natural gas (CNG)

These fuel options may still require a traditional fuel retailer, unlike electric vehicles, which means there is yet another factor to be considered in architectural design.

Major car manufacturers, taxi services and even IT giants are keen on developing driverless, fully automated cars. Such cars can be refueled or recharged when the vehicles do not have passengers and are outside urban areas. These cars will need refueling stations with a specific kind of architectural design.

As it may take longer to manufacture electric trucks and other heavy-duty electric vehicles, they will continue to need gas stations on highways and other locations for some time. Also, those using electric cars may stop on highways for other necessities, such as food, toiletries, etc. Unstaffed service stations offering conveniences and discounts are also becoming popular, driving architectural design to adapt so that they can offer these services.

Today’s gas stations offer:

• Fuel and services for vehicles
• Products, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, vehicle products, vehicle maintenance services, car wash
• Coffee, snacks, consumer products

Customers are beginning to expect more though.

Consumer Expectations

The customer is king, and while designing gas stations, the king must be provided for. Today’s kings seek:

• Fresh, healthy food options
• Attractive store formats
• Personalised products and services
• Self-service checkouts

To facilitate these requirements, fuel retailers collect customer data to understand their preferences. The challenge will lie in other, more advanced retailers, who will offer purchases in a faster and easier manner. Some of these methods include:

• Voice-activated shopping, facilitated by IoT and AI
• Unstaffed retail outlets
• Walk-in vending machines
• Integration of online and offline shopping
• Automated checkouts

To compete, fuel retailers must match these conveniences by creating space for them in their architectural designs. It is important to create a shopping experience for customers that is digitally enabled, making check-outs a seamless experience.

What can gas stations do to adapt to these changing scenarios?

• Focus on existing conveniences and offer new services
• Transform networks and assets
• Develop new skills and expertise
• Build new asset base by developing a series of partnerships

To improve the customer experience, digital technology can be utilised to enhance loyalty programmes and payment gateways, providing information on promotions and how they can be paid for on mobiles. Gas stations have several services to offer customers, including:

• Monitor cars for tune-ups, repairs, cleaning, etc. with predictive maintenance solutions.
• Connect car owners with firms that service vehicles and companies that offer financial products, mobility services, entertainment and e-commerce.
• In urban locations, gas station stores need to offer a higher variety of consumer goods than was previously offered.
• On highways, traditional stores will suffice, with food that can be packed, and rest areas should be available.
• Fuel trucks that can deliver fuel to stranded motorists
• Warehouses for last-mile deliveries
• Drones, AVs, robots and digital counters to help deliver customised products and digital solutions to consumers

Gas stations, or fuel retailers, need to innovate with digital technology and other measures to remain relevant in the changing environment of today’s world and possibly the future. The architectural design of these fuel retailers requires intelligent and informed thought. Architectural firms employed by fuel retailers must have access to accurate 3D architectural visualisation services by experienced firms with expertise in Building Information Modelling, or BIM modelling services. Using Revit software, architectural design firms and fuel retailers can choose BIM outsourcing as a cost-effective and reliable option for retail design drawings in Revit BIM or 3D BIM modelling to help plan their strategy in adapting to the changing nature of gas/petrol stations.

XS CAD has valuable experience providing 3D BIM modelling services and 3D architectural visualisation services for global firms. Our range of services for building designers and contractors include retail design drawings, 3D BIM modelling and 3D rendering services for large global retail chains.  

For further details, contact info@xscad.com

How Contractors Design Portion (CDP) Fills in the Gap

Contractors have many roles to play and many services to take care of during building construction, and one of the seldom acknowledged services they provide is that of the contractor’s design portion, or CDP. The CDP is critically important to the smooth functioning of the building’s services, as it fills in the gap between the functionality of installation drawings and as-built drawings. It provides additional design drawings for AV, security and sound masking in a building. In short, it mops up the work of the remaining design services.

Just what are installation and as-built drawings?

Installation drawings typically include the data required by trades to install most parts of the MEP systems, such as plant rooms, data centres, ventilation systems, underfloor heating, etc. These drawings are created by consultants, contractors or subcontractors from coordinated drawings and are then submitted for approvals. They generally consist of:

• Detailed plans
• Sections
• Elevations
• 3D BIM models with components, installation information

Data in installation drawings includes:

• Precise positioning
• Supports and fixings
• Manufacturers’ shop drawing data
• Space allowances for installation
• Builders work in connection, eg. cutting and sealing holes, chasing block and brickwork for conduits or pipes, lifting and replacing floors, constructing plinths, etc.
• Plant or equipment requirements
• Service connection requirements
• Access space for operation/maintenance requirements
• Access requirements for access panels, decking, platforms, ladders, handrails

As-built Drawings

Changes, both minor or significant, are inevitable during construction, due to changing circumstances on site. Clients may ask for updated drawings, created from as-built surveys. Thus, as-built drawings (also known as record or ‘as constructed’ drawings) are developed, during or after construction, to record what has actually been built. As-built drawings are also required for the Health and Safety file and the operations/maintenance file presented to clients.

Contractor use red ink to mark-up changes to the ‘final construction issue’ drawings on-site, which can be used to create record drawings for the completed project. One of the specific details that MEP contractors record is under-floor cabling. Tenants tend to cut off and leave in earlier cables and then add their own cabling. In the absence of cabling records, later tenants will find the situation quite challenging.

Record drawings must be updated by facilities management teams regularly, including any modifications made to the building. If a BIM (Building Information Modelling) model was developed, it must be appropriately updated with changes before handing it over to clients.

What is CDP and how does it fill the gap?

Contractor’s design portion, or CDP, is a contract, assurance or agreement by the main contractor to take responsibility to design certain parts, or portions, of the building. Either using in-house talent or outsourcing design work to trade subcontractors, the main contractor must ensure that all the designs are coordinated.

Typically, the CDP is required when consultants cannot or have agreed not to provide BIM models for audiovisual (AV) systems, security, sound masking, etc. Main contractors need to fill the gap themselves or have specialist consultants proved electrical design services or other services and then coordinate them with existing MEP systems design.

General CDP Process

• Main contractor acquires building regulations approval for subcontractor designs
• Design consultants decide when and how much of their design is entrusted to subcontractors for completion
• Clear communication of requirements from subcontractors, including function, form and quality
• Main contractors to include trade contractor design (scope, program, cost) as part of tender bid
• Subcontractors provide BIM models of audiovisual (AV) systems, security, sound masking, etc.

What Main Contractors Need from Subcontractors

Different subcontractors need to provide different services to the main contractor, who then incorporates these services into the final as-built drawings. The common services are:

AV (audio-visual) Design Services

• Develop AV functional capabilities, designs and budgets
• Define project requirements, with written specifications and bid form
• Coordinate AV system design with the project team
• Develop complete system design package, with system drawings, specifications, equipment lists, etc.
• Create AV room layout and elevation drawings with dimensions 
• Create connection-level drawings for video, audio, control, LAN
• Configure sound reinforcement systems
• Design cabinet layouts, equipment rack elevations, jack field layouts
• Test and commission AV systems for system functionality
• Prepare and follow up on punch list documents
• Provide and record client/user training assistance
• Coordinate networked AV devices with the client’s IT team
• Identify electrical circuiting, conduit and architectural work requirements as part of the final design

Details of equipment, engineering, project management and AV Integrator installation services must be given to the main contractor.

Using BIM technology can enhance the feedback of security system functioning. The BIM models can be used to locate specific system devices and coordinate them with other devices, so that every system device is properly placed, connected and can be analysed for performance. Security systems can be integrated with the building’s other operating systems for the main contractor to analyse how the security system functions in its space and with relation to the people in that space.

Security (CCTV/Access Control) Design Services

• Provide bid documents, supporting drawings, a bid form
• Develop proposals evaluations, with comparative bid analysis, recommendations
• Create shop drawing submission reviews

Sound Masking Design Services 

• Determine sound masking system requirements with the project team
• Develop sound masking floor plans and drawings
• Create bid documents, supporting drawings, with bid form
• Create shop drawing submission reviews

In addition to coordinating with each subcontractor individually, the main contractor must ensure that the subcontractors coordinate with each other. For example, the MEP subcontractor must be aware of the grid system and a suspended ceiling’s fixings positions, while the ceiling subcontractor must be aware of the plant details above the ceiling for access purposes.

To conclude, the contractor’s design portion ties up all possible loose ends nice and tight. Technically certified and experienced electrical design services providers can enhance and ease the work of main contractors by providing accurate and timely design and drafting services. From moving seamlessly to fill the gap between installation drawings and as-built drawings to providing AV, security and sound masking services design, CDP makes a crucial contribution to the longevity and effectiveness of a building and its services.

XS CAD has valuable experience providing BIM MEP services, mechanical CAD drafting services and electrical design and drafting services for global firms.  Our range of services for building services contractors across the world include MEP drafting, electrical drafting and public health system drafting. 

For further details, contact info@xscad.com

Retail Store Design Leading to an Increase in Browsing, then Ordering Online

Touching it, holding it, trying it on – there are some unique store experiences that digital shopping cannot replace. Retail stores are still highly relevant, and the store’s design layout plays an important role in converting walk-ins to sales. In the digital age, the end point of sales has shifted, sometimes almost imperceptibly, to the process of ordering items online. A growing shopping trend is for consumers to search and view items online, visit stores to see and handle the actual product in its actual size and then order the item online, or visit what are known as brick-and-mortar houses first and go home to order the goods online. There are valid reasons why this process is becoming increasingly popular, and with the help of new technology and high-quality 3D architectural modelling and architectural rendering services, the decision-making process for consumers becomes easier.

Retail store layouts are well researched and well planned to maximise sales for different products. There are a few typical retail store layouts that are repeatedly used, depending on the shape and size of the store and the products sold there. In general, grocery stores use grid layouts for easy navigation and the predictability factor. When businesses want to highlight different products, such as in boutiques, more creative layouts are used.

Retail Floor Plans

Grid

Also called a straight layout, grid floor plans feature:

• efficient utilisation of floor space and walls
• displays parallel to walls, maximising floor space and corners
• easy navigation, easy to organise
• maximum wall space for promotional and seasonal items
• best for shelf-stocked goods, eg. books, toys, food, hardware, homeware

Used mainly in grocery and convenience stores, the grid plan layout creates a feeling of familiarity.

Loop

Also called a racetrack layout, the loop floor plan guides shoppers around the floor. Its features consist of:

• leading shoppers on a set pathway, exposing them to all display items
• visible perimeter walls with multiple wall and shelf displays.
• product displays on outer walls, creative display variations in the store centre

This plan works well for apparel, accessories, toys, homeware, kitchenware, personal care products and specialty products.

Free Flow

This store layout caters for maximum creativity and can be easily modified. Its main advantages are:

• encourages browsing
• angled displays make shoppers slow down and examine product groupings
• open lines of view through the floor space makes specialty displays and power walls visible and easy to guide customers to specific zones with bright accent colours and product groupings

This plan is ideal for boutiques, upscale stores, specialty stores with small inventories, highlighting special products, such as apparel, accessories, personal care, specialty brands, rather than store goods of large quantity

Diagonal

A diagonal store layout encourages shoppers to test or sample merchandise. Its features include:  

• easy movement between aisles while store employees can easily view shoppers
• ideal for letting shoppers browse sample products by themselves
• can point shoppers to a central sampling/demonstration area

This plan is preferred in electronic or technology stores, beauty and cosmetic retailers and specialty food stores.

Along with determining the most suitable floor plan for the merchandise being sold, there are a few other factors that retailers might consider.

Tips for Retail Floor Plans

          Appropriate product quantities - More products on the sales floor has led to increased sales. However, having an excessive amount of product on the sales floor could lead to negative brand perception, especially for boutique or high-end retailers. Discount retailers can pack the shop with merchandise as part of a successful strategy. High-end stores put up only a few selected items for display to emphasise exclusivity.

·        Sufficient space between products and fixtures - Customer personal space is important, but shelves can still be packed with merchandise.

Several factors encourage online shopping today. Besides being convenient, frequently cheaper and enabling the luxury of staying at home without venturing into uncomfortable weather or traffic conditions, consumers prefer to browse at traditional outlets, or brick-and-mortar shops, to get a more realistic look and feel of the product and then make their actual purchases online. Interestingly, some digital stores are launching traditional stores in addition to their digital presence, especially apparel stores, while traditional retailers are moving to the digital arena to stay relevant. There are a host of reasons why this works well for both sellers and buyers.

Digitally native brands opening traditional stores

Though they started online, digital brands are expanding their reach by launching traditional stores and are predicted to continue doing so. Buyers benefit from physically handling the merchandise they see online and can make purchases at their convenience from home.

AR aids

Augmented reality technology is helping to bridge the digital and physical divides. Large brands, especially in furniture, have begun to include AR features to help shoppers picture furniture in their homes. An app called Shopify helps make AR technology available to smaller brands through Shopify AR. This enables shoppers to browse for furniture in a real store and then go home and view (on their phone cameras) how merchandise, such as tables, beds, etc., will look in their homes, whether the furniture matches their home décor and then they can order online rather than revisit the store.

Customisation

Both e-commerce and traditional stores are increasingly providing options to customise purchases, so that consumers can buy products personalised to their needs, from personalised embroidery on jeans and jackets and even customised shoes. While visiting a retail store, shoppers can better understand how these products look and feel.

Searching visually

A retail trend that allows shoppers to take a photo and then search multiple sites, locate and purchase an item with just a click is powered by AI (artificial intelligence). The Lens feature of Pinterest uses this technology and the Pinterest App camera to look for visually similar pins. Retailers use high quality and current visual assets to represent their wares. Consumers can see the actual merchandise, click a picture and later locate the item online for the best possible deal.

Omnichannel approach

When both online and offline channels can be used for marketing and shopping, the buying experience needs to be consistent across all channels. Integrating all offline and online channels for a seamless shopping experience is something the omnichannel approach endeavours to deliver, enabling the availability of multiple channels, such as phone, desktop, laptop, tablet or a retail outlet, to make a purchase.

Pop-up stores

New products can be marketed by temporary online and offline storefronts, which encourage shoppers to sample and buy these products, generate a social presence and help collect consumer data.

Same-day delivery

Using drones, delivery robot startups or by other means, some brands deliver orders within a day, making shopping online as prompt as offline shopping. When shoppers are faced with retail stores not having the merchandise of choice in store, they can browse other stores and then go home to order online and still expect to have the item delivered on the same day.

Google hopping

Shoppers can browse, compare and buy items from different retailers without visiting individual websites by using Google Shopping.

In today’s world, consumers are able to conduct in-depth product research before they decide what to buy and from where. The layout design of a retail store can directly affect store traffic, staying time and ultimately sales. In the age of digital stores, retail store design still holds significant relevance, and it is important to devote time and resources to maximise profits. Layouts, displays and merchandise must adapt to new trends and concepts. As new technological advances and software tools, such as Revit BIM, become increasingly used, it may be wise for retail stores and chains to find reliable BIM service providers who can deliver accurate Revit Architecture services and 3D CAD modelling services that will assist their profitable offline and online presence.

Why Is Power Factor Correction So Important for Green Buildings?

Going ‘green’ is an ideal concept that is fast becoming a necessity, rather than a preferred option. In the global construction industry, there is an increasing drive to find means to integrate ‘green’ practices into building services. One of the prime areas where this can occur is in the field of building power consumption. In addition to using various alternative power sources, the efficient functioning of electronic appliances is critical. The extent of efficiency in electronic appliance functioning is further dependent on power quality, which is improved by power factor correction. With precise electrical design services, specifically electrical drafting services, and the use of active harmonic filters, smart MEP (M&E) engineering design for building services can contribute to the longevity of electronic equipment, resulting in decreased power consumption and reduced costs.

So, what is power factor correction?

Typically using capacitors to offset inductive loads, such as those produced by motors, power factor correction (PFC) tries to improve power factor and thus power quality. Ideally, a system should use all the power drawn from its source to perform useful work. This can happen if the current is in phase with the voltage. If a variation exists between the two, some of the energy from the AC mains is lost and does not perform work.

A measure of the effectiveness of using incoming power in electrical or electronic equipment is known as power factor. The technique of PFC attempts to achieve a power factor of 1 for any system, although most appliances will function effectively at a power factor of 0.95 also. Power factor is also known as the ratio of Real to Apparent power, terms which can be defined as follows:

• Real power – power used to actually run equipment, perform work
• Reactive power – power required by certain equipment, such as motors, relays, transformers, to create a magnetic field for the operation of the equipment, but does not perform work
• Apparent power – vector sum of Real and Reactive power, total power needed to run the equipment

The efficient functioning of the power supply is increased with the use of PFC systems, resulting in cost savings on electrical consumption and supporting green architecture.

There are a number of reasons why the process of PFC may be needed, such as:

• Failure of motors
• Failure of electrical or electronic equipment or appliances
• Continuous overheating of transformers, switchgear and cabling
• Continuous and random tripping of fuses/circuit breakers
• Equipment operation that is unstable
• Increasing and undetermined high energy use and costs

Electrical equipment can become unstable and fail to work when the power factor is deemed poor. A system with a power factor of less than 90 percent will need power factor correction. Systems with poor power factors incur heavy energy costs, as an increased amount of current is needed to execute the same amount of work. Thus, improving power quality reduces power distribution system loads, reduces load on switching gear and cables, reduces costs.

To maintain systems that require power factor correction, the following levels should be regularly monitored, ideally every 6 months:

• Power load reduction
• Voltage levels
• Harmonic content
• Equipment condition
• Functional operation

Now, traditionally, PFC equipment used a bank of capacitors to help reduce the total amount of electrical demand. The capacitors would offset an inductive load, or it would offset reactors in case of capacitive loads.

Enter the harmonic filter. A harmonic filter eliminates unwanted harmonics in electrical systems produced by non-linear loads, thus improving the performance of the equipment and reducing energy costs. Harmonic filtering is useful when the following situations occur:

• Transformers, motors and conductors overheat
• Generators show instability
• Capacitors fail
• Fuses and circuit breakers keep tripping
• Drive failure/damage of sensitive electronic equipment
• Increase in energy costs

Non-linear loads, such as uninterrupted power supplies (UPS), low-energy lighting and switched mode power supplies in personal computers, cause unwanted harmonic voltages and currents. By drawing current in short pulses, rather than a smooth wave-like manner, non-linear loads generate electrical harmonics, which create currents of varying frequencies that are reflected into the system, thus twisting the AC waveform.

It is in this way, by reducing the system’s efficiency, that harmonics reduce the power quality, leading to a lower power factor and ultimately higher energy costs. Harmonic filters sieve out a system’s electrical harmonics, reducing equipment overheating, tripping of fuses and breakers, improving power quality and thus reducing energy costs. By installing resonant circuits in series or in parallel, the harmonic currents are blocked or minimised, reducing harmonic voltage distortion.

The three main types of harmonic filters are:

Passive

• Used in industrial sites with non-linear loads more than 500kVA
• Used in sites needing power factor correction, reduced voltage and current distortion
• An LC circuit is installed in parallel with the non-linear load. The circuit absorbs the harmonics, eliminating it flowing into the network.

Active

• Used in industrial sites with non-linear loads less than 500kVA
• Installed at sites that need reduced current distortion
• Systems with power electronics are installed in series or parallel with non-linear loads, compensating harmonic voltage or current drawn by the load.

Hybrid

• Combine the performance of active and passive filters

Harmonic filters thus contribute to ‘green’ buildings by improving power quality, improving power factors, reducing power consumption and, thus, helping leave a small carbon footprint and enabling low acquisition and life cycle costs. To enable construction to achieve a green building star rating, construction firms need to employ trusted engineering design services who are able to provide technically accurate electrical CAD drafting services. Rather than train and use in-house personnel, Western companies tend to seek cost-effective M&E services overseas. India, with its vast bank of qualified electrical engineers, is quickly becoming a preferred destination to seek expertise in power factor correction and other cutting-edge electrical design services that support green buildings.

How Building Orientation Can Help Curb Power Consumption in Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings are not the bad guys. We need them all the time. They provide a sizeable proportion of our urban needs and services, but commercial buildings typically consume a large chunk of urban power. Studies in America have shown that the power consumed in commercial buildings account for up to 30 per cent of the total electricity consumed annually.* Reducing power consumption in commercial buildings is one of the prime objectives of green architecture, and in the last several years, various approaches have been formulated on how to achieve this. One of the more basic means to do so is to plan a building’s orientation to optimise heat gain in relation to the sun’s path and consider wind direction, thus reducing the heating/cooling load on power consumption, increasing the efficiency of building services. With the right HVAC mechanical engineering consultants and electrical design services working on an intelligently oriented building, a significantly effective energy-efficient building design can be formulated.

When we talk about commercial buildings, we refer to office buildings, hotels, hospitals, shopping malls or other buildings used for retail. In general, these buildings are multistoried and use power continuously throughout the day and sometimes through the night, contributing to greater power consumption.

Typically, commercial buildings are oriented to make the best use of street appeal, view scenic surroundings or for drainage considerations, but skyrocketing energy costs mean that designers and builders must attempt to incorporate the benefits of free solar energy into building design, with the result of reducing carbon footprints and increasing the building’s marketing value. At the same time, occupants experience the same, expected indoor comfort with reduced energy bills.

The orientation of a building affects the heating, cooling, lighting, daylight access, ventilation and views of occupants. Variations in the usage of power is determined by solar gains impacting cooling and the effect of daylight affecting the use of artificial lighting. Considering climate, low-E coatings on glazing can regulate solar heat gain. Cold climates may need passive solar gain, while hot climates may need a reduction in solar gain.

Orientation towards certain directions is advantageous during some climates. In cold climates, buildings-oriented west of north will result in increased solar gains in the afternoon, and buildings-oriented east of north will be warm during the mornings. At locations with warm climates, buildings-oriented east of north will be better positioned to capture cooling breezes. In commercial buildings, therefore, it must be determined early in the design stage when more warmth would be beneficial, depending on occupancy rates.

For commercial buildings in the Northern Hemisphere, orientation towards the sun requires the largest side of the building to face south and have the most windows, as the sun rests longer on a building’s southern walls. When windows face east or west, they allow the entry of excessive heat, making air conditioners work long and hard during the summer. They also cause issues with glare in commercial buildings. During winters, maximum exposure to daylight provides passive heat, reducing HVAC system dependency.

It’s easy to see that building orientation is ideally based on the geographical location of the building and the local climate for most of the year.

Orientation for Passive Cooling

When commercial buildings are oriented well and decisions are taken to incorporate landscape design and shading elements, passive cooling can be achieved fairly simply. Proper orientation can exclude bright, hot sun and hot winds while accessing cool breezes in certain climates. Hot, humid climates should ideally have buildings that are protected from direct sunlight and heat from nearby buildings (radiant heat). This can be achieved if landscape and adjacent buildings funnel beneficial breezes and shading is provided to all or most external walls.

How the sun travels, or its solar path, influences a building’s heat gain to a large extent. Intelligent building orientation can be crucial in passive solar construction. According to research, a ridgeline running east-west on a rectangular building is ideal. This will maximise the length of the southern side of the building, and several windows on the south will help. Due to the intensity of the summer sun, the northern side of the building ideally should have fewer windows. Of course, directions should be considered as a solar reference and not magnetic north, which varies considerably.

So, what really happens on the sun’s path?

The Truth about the Sun’s Path

Every child will tell you that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. If we want to be strictly accurate, this happens only on 2 days of the year, the autumnal and vernal equinoxes. During the rest of the year, things are slightly different. The Earth’s tilt on its axis means that the sun rises and sets slightly south of east and slightly south of west during the winter, and slightly north of east and slightly north of west during the summer. The angle is slight and depends on the season and how far the observer is from the equator.

What this means is that the winter sun lives in the southern sky and the summer sun lives in the northern sky, in general. For those living in the Southern Hemisphere, these directions are reversed, which means that for those in Oceania, most of South America, almost half of Africa and some parts of Asia, the winter sun rises in the northeast and sets in the northwest, and the summer sun rises in the southeast and sets in the southwest.

Confusing? Not really. Building engineering designers and architects need to consider these directions, locations and seasons for best results.

Having a south-facing orientation results in shading from the summer sun, reducing solar gain but still accessing sufficient daylight to reduce energy loads associated with artificial lighting. Summer sun angles are high, while winter sun angles are low, enabling the easy entry of light and heat to a building. When buildings are oriented to the north as well, they receive sufficient amounts of indirect daylight, and solar gain, direct light and direct glare are reduced. These factors are more difficult to control if building facades face east or west, as they will then deal with the full intensity of the rising or setting sun, respectively.

In addition to the solar path, building orientation can also harness wind movement for optimum results, even having the potential to utilise wind turbines to generate power. Also, winds and wind patterns can help regulate heat gain. Prevailing winds in a geographical area are winds that blow predominantly from a certain general direction over that location. Studying, analysing and calculating wind data for certain locations can help design commercial buildings that can use summer breezes for passive cooling or protect the interiors from strong wintry winds. These calculations can even possibly prevent the pile-up of snow outside entrances.

In general, chilling winter winds originate in the north and the west. For coastal areas, breezes typically originate from onshore directions, and cold breezes blow down from the mountains to the valleys. Insulated glazing on the building’s sides can limit the effects of these winds.

What happens when builders are unable to choose building orientation?

Building orientation must be fixed on certain plots, especially if they are commercial buildings. The orientation cannot be chosen or planned. If the climate is hot and does not require heating, the site can be developed so that surrounding buildings and trees shade the walls and can channel cool breezes inside.

Excluding photovoltaic collectors and areas deliberately exposed for solar power generation, roofs can be shaded as much as possible. Windows facing east and west should be minimised or eliminated, and those that can’t be avoided should be well shaded. Unwanted heat enters through unprotected glass, so shading the glass can reduce heat gain.

Tips to Regulate Heat Gain through Orientation

Sometimes, builders can use these simple tips to regulate heat gain, depending on the climate:

• Solar-oriented floor plan – Individual floor plans in multi-storey buildings can face the sun for maximum heat gain.
• Tall trees for shade – Evergreen trees on the north side of the building will provide shade during the summer. However, trees can pose certain dangers, so builders must consider age, species, growth rate and canopy cover before deciding to plant new or retain existing trees on the building lot.
• Sufficient number of windows – Too many windows can drain heat from the interior during the winter, and they can allow the entry of more heat to the interiors during the summer. 
• Angled glass – It’s not always necessary to have vertical glass. When glass is sloped to match the sun’s angle, reflection can be minimized. Insulation effects are reduced with angled glass, but possible solar gains need to be balanced with heat loss to the outdoors. 

Currently, software tools can accurately calculate location-specific solar gain and seasonal thermal performance. They can rotate and animate 3D graphical models of commercial buildings with regard to the solar path.

Though street appeal and lot dimensions may ultimately limit a building’s orientation to benefit from passive solar approaches, innovative designs by HVAC mechanical engineering consultants and efficient electrical design services can result in operational energy reduction. Commercial buildings will use less energy for heating and cooling, curbing power consumption, if they are properly oriented according to their geographical location and climate. This will then result in lower power costs without compromising indoor comfort.

What Architectural Design Features Are Specific to Schools?

Nurturing, guiding, educating and preparing the minds of tomorrow for the challenges of the future, schools and their design must evolve to keep pace with societal changes. Some design features, though, are constant. Incorporating school design principles with functionality, architects and designers must be committed to careful consideration and best practice methods while designing a school. Reliable architectural CAD drafting services and accurate architectural BIM services can strengthen the impact of a well-thought out design, making it easy to edit and modify design features.

Some of the most fundamental requirements for a school’s architectural design are integration of technology, safety and security, multipurpose areas and outdoor learning. 

• Integration of Technology

In today’s world, many children are unable to fathom a world without the internet. Modern schools must innovate so that students can access networks from any space on the campus and be able to view or present their work at any point in the school building. It becomes important to wire the entire school, even outdoor spaces.

In a relatively short space of time, screens, projectors and sound systems are moving to halls, common areas, cafeterias and even staircases, rather than stay put in classrooms. Stairways can feature carpeted student seating, overhead projectors, large screens and wireless access to lectures and presentations during project-based learning. This will prepare them for modern work environs. 

• Safety & Security

Increasingly, especially in Western countries, schools have become unwilling venues for terror acts, besides regular student bullying. To guard against intruders, schools typically have a single-entry point and limit access to outsiders. Currently, an increasing number of schools are installing double lock entries (2 locked doors to pass through) with sign-ins and video surveillance.

Helping to prevent bullying is slightly more complicated. Since most incidents of bullying occur in cafeterias, playgrounds, hallways and stairwells, away from adult supervision, school building design needs to be more open, with an increased number of windows, clear lines of sight and in some cases, transparent classroom walls, such as glass floor-to-ceiling walls. The classrooms can connect to a central collaboration space, so that teachers can see students in classrooms, hallways and collaboration spaces from anywhere on the floor. 

• Multipurpose Areas

As education and the curriculum changes in so many ways in short times, it’s important to institute spaces that can keep pace with those changes in a school building. Multipurpose areas must be flexible enough to accommodate changing modes of teaching, learning and sharing for the long term. Every part of a school must contribute in some way to learning. As hallways widen to change into classroom extension, stairs become seating spaces and walls become writing surfaces or feature TV screens with Wi-fi, these spaces are meeting the growing needs of the student population.

Previously used only as cafeterias and libraries, these spaces are morphing into hybrid theatres, media centres and workshop spaces. Educators can create instructional variety, encourage group projects and independent work areas by modifying the environment. Light chairs, beanbags, large rugs, tables of different heights and movable walls can create quiet spaces or large enclaves within a multipurpose area. 

• Outdoor Learning

Improved creation and reduced stress are proven results of outdoor learning. Outdoor learning helps students become more focused on the curriculum and test well academically. When most of the school day is spent indoors, an outdoor class with several benches, an amphitheatre or a partly covered space with Wi-Fi for presentations, individual or group work can be refreshing.

The study of science and energy generation can be made interesting and relevant when students can collect data or compare fossil fuel to solar, wind and geothermal power.

Basic Architectural Guidelines for School Design 

• Teachers and institution heads can provide their input to the architect.
• School floors should be high enough to prevent water logging or flooding during the rains.
• A school building that face south helps sunlight enter the classrooms during winter and shades the classrooms from the direct summer sun.
• The building design should accommodate free air circulation, natural light, hygienic restrooms and a multipurpose area.
• The school should provide a place for meals or refreshments, a teachers’ common room and related rest rooms, reading room and library, a visitors’ room, an office room, a headmaster’s office and a well-equipped laboratory.
• The right amount of space must be given to classrooms, multipurpose rooms, halls, staff rooms, office rooms, common room, the library and reading rooms. Ideally, the classroom should have 600 sqft of floor area.
• Physical education facilities must include toilets.
• Play areas, footpaths and a bicycle parking area are required features.
• The school campus should be attractive and stimulating.
• School campuses must include green spaces, with trees, plants or grass.
• The main school entrance should have overhead protection from the rain or other extreme climatic elements.

Though a classroom’s shape, interior area, wall colours, furniture layout, flooring and amount of light can significantly influence student learning, certain features are best maintained in any classroom. Classroom design should ideally include the following features:

• Adequate space between desks
• Many large windows, with translucent blinds to avoid glares
• Recessed windows as protection from rain and excessive sun.
• Hidden rain pipes
• Rooms should have sufficient natural light.
• Heaters/air-conditions or vents should be placed high on the walls.
• Flooring should be water-resistant and long-lasting.
• Entrances, exits, classroom and bathroom doorways should be planned to facilitate wheelchair use.
• Roofs must have parapets and no chimneys. 

The shape and size of a school building, including the number, size and type of classrooms, will naturally be different for each school, based on many factors, including the student and teacher populations. Building shapes are dependent on these factors, but the more popular types are as follows: 

• I Type – Have a single row of classrooms.
• L Type – The I type has an extension that is perpendicular
• T Type - The I type with extensions both ways on one side
• U Type - Two I types joined on one side

Within these types of school buildings, it is important to maintain certain design standards for each part of the school. They are as follows: 

• Ceiling Heights – This varies according to the size and function of the space. Multipurpose rooms are large, and hence, they should have higher ceilings, taking into account any special equipment that will be used there. The general minimum floor-to-ceiling height of classrooms is typically 3m.
• Wall-to-floor Ratio – Lower wall-to-floor ratios results in a more efficient building layout, but this needs to be balanced with the educational requirements of the space. 
• Room Groups – There groups of school spaces are Teaching/Learning, Administrative and Ancillary. Teaching/Learning spaces should be prioritised in terms of orientation, daylight and ventilation. The offices and multipurpose rooms should be placed so that they can be accessed without entering the Teaching/Learning areas.
• Circulation – Students, teachers and visitors should be able to access any part of the school from any entrance without encountering congestion. Hallways should have a minimum clear width of 1.8m. Handrails on balconies or stairs should have a minimum height of 1400mm. Entrance lobbies should have a secure door to access the internal parts of the school.
• Ventilation – Permanent wall vents, with baffles for noise, wind and rain, and windows with open sections are ideal for natural ventilation.
• Acoustics – Ideal school acoustics should enable clear communication between teachers and students while not disrupting study activities. 
• Finishes – Non-slip, chemically and water-resistant floors are recommended. Wall finishes should be durable and easy to clean. 
• Fittings and Furniture – Those fittings which are fixed, such as sink units, hat/coat hooks, rails, blinds, shelves, white boards, blackboards and notice boards should be part of the building contract. 

School design is of paramount importance for the benefit of future generations, since design has a profound impact on learning. Incorporating changing technologies, lifestyles and work environments, school design must adapt, modify and modernise to optimise their impact. To facilitate the continuous innovation of school design requires a new breed of designers and design professionals and sometimes even the aid of offshore architectural drafting solutions. In particular, countries such as India offer a wealth of talent to provide architectural CAD services that are precise, cost-effective and easily adaptable. Therefore, it is now possible to customise school design without worrying about design skills, costs and accuracy.