What is BIM work?

For starters, it should be noted that the BIM work technique is based on a 3D geometric representation of the project. It is from this representation that will be generated plans, sections, and elevations of the construction. Then, this one can already display the interferences as well as the calculations of the quantities.

But working in BIM is not only a 3-dimensional model, but it can also be accompanied by 4-dimensional time data, 5-dimensional financial data, 6-dimensional sustainability concept data, or even data relating to the life of the building in 7 dimensions. Hence, a digital model designed as part of a BIM work is, therefore, a very detailed model and few architects are trained in this technique.

The main advantages of BIM

What is interesting with the BIM is the fact that it provides manufacturers with a digital model that contains complete information and usable by all. In addition, this model is still very essential in the design phase, in the construction phase, and in the building’s operating phase.

Here, it should be noted that the BIM model is developed at the same time by the architect and by the various construction specialists, which speeds up the processes and which also reduces the gap that can separate the designer from the manufacturer.

Given all this, it is impossible to deny the fact that some adjustments must be made to be able to apply for the work in BIM, including the working method, the redistribution of roles and also the fees.

How to become familiar with the BIM method?

Even if the application of the BIM process by the entire construction chain is not yet mandatory in France, we still have to prepare for the fact that this may happen sooner or later. Thus, it is already known that several software solutions can be used, such as Revit, Digital Project, ArchiCAD, and Vectorworks.

Otherwise, for the training, many schools are currently offering special courses that can help people become familiar with the method of BIM, citing only: the Ecole des Ponts Paris Tech, the ESTP, the Arts, and Crafts Paris Tech and also the National Schools of Architecture.

How did BIM affect the work of architects?

It must be admitted that the BIM really jostled both the nature and the organization of work in the construction trades, especially in the job of the architect. However, it is still a real asset for the latter because working with a digital model can help him to master all the constructive elements during the design phase and also to display the representation in a way more integrated.

Added to this, the architect can also communicate his ideas and demonstrate his expertise through this model. Not to mention the fact that he can adjust or modify it as the project progresses. In other words, the BIM can be considered as a tool that facilitates the coordination of the various phases of work, for the monitoring of the site but also for post-construction work such as a facade remodeling for example.

In addition, this method can also allow the architect to save money and enhance his work with the client. Finally, it should not be forgotten that the BIM can, therefore, create additional missions for the architect, which means that his fees will also have to change.

Anyway, the BIM must be integrated gradually and thoughtfully in an architectural office not to rush things. If possible, it is even better to test it first on current projects or on examples so that you can easily respond to commands that require BIM.

The place of BIM in architectural offices

Adaptation, progressivity, reflection: here are the three criteria to be implemented for a serene and successful integration of BIM in architectural offices. This integration must not be at the expense of the independence of the architects who will use the BIM.

In order for each architect to enjoy the possibilities offered by BIM, it is essential to analyze the working method practiced in his office, to test the technology on projects in progress, so that BIM meets the expectations of its beneficiaries. Moreover, these tests will allow each actor to own the BIM gradually.

Large or small structures, BIM is at the service of all architecture.

It is misleading to believe that BIM is only for large architectural firms, with small and medium-sized firms accounting for 70% of users of this technology in England. In Britain, for example, small firms hire BIM, which has improved collaboration between their architects, increased productivity, increased analytical and simulation capacity, to name just a few.

BIM is still evolving and being adopted around the world. By embracing this technology eagerly and rigorously, the architectural sector can be certain that it will retain the legal monopoly and independence that it enjoys — the architects.

As-built drawings are an integral part of the construction process. It compares the final structure with the original plan and tracks any changes. Now, suppose there exists a building with no proper as-built drawings or documentation. The building is supposed to undergo renovation or maintenance. Since As-built drawings are crucial for renovation and maintenance projects, the contractors will have a hard time dealing with the process. This is where the Scan-to-BIM point cloud technology comes in. 

The term Scan-to-BIM means exactly how it sounds. The main goal is to scan the existing building into a soft form. But how is it done? A 3D laser scanning device is used to collect data in the form of “points.” These points represent the existing condition of the building and number in millions. Millions of these points merge to form a Point Cloud scan. This point cloud scan is then imported into a 3D modeling software to create the desired as-built drawing/model.

This Scan-to-BIM technology can be used for various purposes like site inspection, design check, create as-built drawings, and documentation, renovation and maintenance of an already made building. The documentation process of an already made building can be divided into four levels.

Level 1: Floor plans

Level 2: Elevation and Roof plans

Level 3: Section plans

Level 4: Site layout plan

The process of implementing the use of Scan-to-BIM can prove to be hard. The process is divided into four steps:

Information Collection:

In the first step, you collect as much data from the site and client as you can. The process includes defining the Scope of Work, Level of Detail and a schedule for the project. The Scope of Work will set the boundaries of the project and what it entails. The process is further divided into two steps, Pre-mobilization considerations and On-site information. Pre-mobilization considerations include the pre-requisites required to complete the process like selecting the 3D laser scanner and project planning. The on-site information includes gathering and confirming the existing conditions of the building.

Processing:

After the data is collected using the 3D laser scanner, next you process that data. This step is very crucial in which you have to validate the collected data, despite its accuracy. You should always cross-check the data to check for any errors. Errors in the continuity of the data may be present due to different environmental conditions that are not detected by the internal system. You should always keep a saved copy of your data before any processing. After this step is the post-processing alignment of the data. Different tools can be used for aligning the data like best fit, ortho, geo-referencing, etc. There will always be confusing data in the point cloud scan that will make the aligning challenging. Different types of point cloud file types are:

• OBJ
• PLY: Polygon File Format or Stanford Triangle Format
• XYZ: X, Y, Z representing the Cartesian coordinates
• PCG, RCS, RCP
• E57
  
  

Modeling:

In this step, the scanned points of the project are given a shape or form using 3D Modeling software. Lets take the example of Autodesk REVIT, since it is commonly used. Before you start modeling, you have to verify the coordinates of the point cloud. This can be done using tools like Edge wise, Point Sense, Building scan to BIM, etc. After the coordinates are verified, insert the data into the modeling software. If there are more than one point cloud files then check the coordinates of all of them. After inserting the file, make sure to lock it using the pin tool to a specific location. Create worksets for each point cloud file. When you are modeling, you have to keep a few things in mind.

• Every element must be modeled as a single Revit Element.
• Always use a group of single columns instead of a generic model.
• The walls of the model must fit the Point cloud by cutting thin view angles in Plan and Section view.
  
  

Keep in mind that all the participants or stakeholders involved must have access to the same storage disc. Otherwise, everyone will save the files onto their own system. 

Quality Check

To make sure that the model is of good quality, run a few rounds of model check by throwing a section and moving it around the project. Use the visibility and override tools to check on some elements. Check the clashes between MEP disciplines using Autodesk Navisworks. It makes it easier for you to move around a Revit model.

Conclusion

To summarize it all, the Scan-to-BIM point cloud feature is one of the newest features used by architects and engineers to create as-built drawings or models of existing structures. This is done using a 3D laser scanner that scans the building and collects data in the form of points. The point cloud files are then processed and modeled using various techniques. This results in a 3D model of the building. The process ends with checking the model for any errors and clashes.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word construction? It’s always a picture of a construction plan or drawing. Different people will give different answers to the question “What is the most important part of a construction process”, but you can’t even take the first step if you don’t know what you are making. For that, you need a Construction drawing.

A construction drawing is one of the most basic things you need before you can start constructing your structure. These drawings were made by hand in the past, but are now made using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. One of the most common and widely known CAD tools is AutoCAD. These drawings are drawn mathematically accurate and are used to provide a better visual aid to the construction team. Before the drawing is finalized and used for construction, it is passed through a series of changes and amendments. The first phase is:

The Initiation Stage: Schematic Design Sets

This is the first drawing or plan that is made at the start of the construction process. The architects think of different concepts to incorporate in the design, research on trends and check for by-laws to follow. These initial concepts have to go through a series of changes because of corrections, changes from clients and other modifications.

The schematic drawings include the outline of the entire project like HVAC installation, floor plans, sections, elevations and the scale of the elements. These drawings are later used for zoning and permissions. You can say that this phase sets the basis for further developing the design and executing the project. 

The Detailing Stage: Design Development Sets

Now that the premise has been set, we move on to the design development drawings. In these drawings, more details are added to the drawings to be used for the BOQ (Bill of Quantities) preparations and tendering process. The design development sets serve three main purposes:

1. The structural design of the structure
2. Quantity and type of construction materials
3. Check the building compliance with the local by-laws
   
   

These further include the mechanical, electrical and plumbing as well as the landscape designs. The cost schedule and the time schedule are also included in the DD sets. These are then submitted to the client for their review and any modifications. 

The Final Stage: Construction Document Sets

Once the architect and client are both satisfied with the Schematic Design and the Detailed Design, we move on to the construction documents. No more design changes are introduced. The mail goal shifts towards creating construction documents to explain the details required to construct the structure. 

These are the final documents that are used as a manual to start the construction process. The documents contain details of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and structural components to be installed. It also contains details and descriptions of materials to be incorporated into the structure. Other than this, it contains procurement requirements, specifications, contractual forms and conditions of contract. A task list may be used to check the activities that are completed and materials that have been consumed.

To conclude all this, this entire process is called the lifecycle of the architecture of a project. All three types of drawings are essential for the project to run smoothly and be successful. The SD set gives a theoretical idea of the structure and research on the project. The DD set gives details on the drawings, BOQ and timeline of the project. Finally, the CD gives details of the contractual documents or the rules and regulations of the project. It entails everything like site layout, structural design, framing plan, wall sections, HVAC, MEP and fabrication drawings.

BIM – Building Information Modeling as an Effective Method for Planning and Buildings.

BIM in architecture has been on the rise for several years. BIM stands for Building Information Modeling and describes a planning method that enables architects, engineers and other people involved in the construction to plan intelligently and digitally. BIM is based on a 3D model, which brings together the data of all involved planners. This means that all information required for planning, building and operating buildings can be digitally coordinated.

When planning a building, various information and data must be recorded. In order to be able to exchange with the individual participants, the building information is constantly renewed and expanded. Digitization optimizes workflows. This saves time. Errors within the planning become clearer and the buildings can be optimized. With Building Information Modeling, all building lifecycle operations can be brought together and linked.

Building Information Modeling: The benefits at a glance

The term BIM was coined by the US software manufacturer Autodesk and has been proven for many years in the Scandinavian countries, but also in the US and the UK. In Germany, BIM is still in its infancy, which is to be changed, inter alia, by the “Digital Plan Planning and Construction Plan” of the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure, BMVI for short.

As a reason for the increased focus on Building Information Modeling, the advantages are repeatedly stated. Compared to conventional planning, BIM is considered to be particularly efficient.

These benefits speak for BIM (Building Information Modeling):

Improved collaboration on a project with BIM: All project participants can work together on a building data model, view it at any time in the latest version and make changes to it.

Development of a precise 3D model: Thanks to the acquisition of all relevant data for the building, an accurate 3D model can be created in advance. From finished 3D models, for example, complete technical drawings can be read out.

Early detection and elimination of planning errors and interface problems: Any errors within the planning and in connection with interfaces are detected faster and more reliably, which ultimately benefits the construction project.

With BIM, projects in the construction industry can be realized more effectively and cost-effectively. Workflows are made more efficient and the quality of work increases. Thanks to coordinated processing, building information modeling is an integral part of architecture.

Building Information Modeling: Application in Practice

Within the construction industry, many companies rely on the BIM model. This is because the architecture program can be used in a particularly versatile way.

In these industries BIM is used among others:

Construction: Civil engineering companies use the process for complex structures and construction sites to fully capture the construction project. The entire planning process, but also all construction processes can be mapped with BIM.

Infrastructure planning: BIM can be used as a planning method in the area of infrastructure. Specialists use such software solutions to plan the city and subway network as well as streets of any kind.

Utilities: Building Information Modeling is also used to design water and energy grids. Thanks to the clear visualization, construction projects can be planned in detail.