Bim Corner

My reflections on BILT 2024

Konrad Fugas — Wed, 22 May 2024 08:40:44 +0000

What an event! BILT was definitely the best conference I’ve ever attended! Why am I so enthusiastic? Let me do some recap of the event and underline the winning points for that conference among all the others I have attended.

Sessions

There were a lot of great sessions. Oftentimes it was a struggle to choose one from among 5 concurrent presentations. I had to make some hard choices. If I were to pick top three, where I learned the most or got some perspective on a topic I think those would be:

Next-Level Data Visualisation

Great lab held by Kevin Fielding showcasing the possibilities behind connecting Speckle viewers with PowerBI. We sliced Revit model schedules, connected to PowerBI and transformed data. We also used Speckle server to visualise the model within PowerBI and interconnected it with the schedules. Afterwards, we created a dashboard with a bunch of visuals that gave both data and model overviews. Much appreciated, especially the help from Speckle, as it turned out the PowerBI is not consistent for every user, as one would expect.

BIM Integration for Built Asset Operation

Session held by Lindsay Offner and Ben Bentley about Facility Management of a tunnel in Sydney. They presented their workflow between model and Maximo (FM tool) and how they store and update data during maintenance. I noticed that their challenges and proposed solutions are similar to those we are having now at Stavanger University Hospital preparing for the handover.

How to succeed in building an 8 km subway with 6 stations directly from BIM.

Magne Ganz showed another example of a model-based building project in Norway. His presentation was focused on design processes set up to automate mundane tasks and to make it possible for the construction site to work without drawings. This was a session with a topic similar to mine, but it covered a little bit of a different area. Thanks to that, participants of both Magne’s and my sessions could understand the concept even better.

Discussion panel

There was also a great discussion panel about integrating design technology into education and professional development thoughtfully led by Joel Martineau. What is the different approach to professional development across countries and companies? How does academia prepare students for participation in the job market? How to stay competitive there? What should be the division of the responsibility between employer and employee? A lot of good questions and different answers and approaches.

My presentation and feedback

I also held a session at BILT. I was doing a case study on how to build a billion dollar hospital based on models.

I have spoken about core assumptions we did on site. Some of them I have already described on our blog (introduction here) and some of them I will continue on presenting here. The four main chapters were:

Data quality

A lot of materials about it already on our blog:

Processes

Example of one of our most important process https://bimcorner.com/model-based-construction-process-for-the-design-and-execution-phase/

Technology

Software we use, what tool is responsible for what task and how do they talk to one another.

Construction site

how we set up our site. One topic I have already covered here: https://bimcorner.com/bim-stations-do-we-need-them-on-construction-site/

I took the same approach as we do on our blog – kept the presentation practical, giving loads of value, but low key and no bragging and blabbering.

I devoted myself to creating and delivering an outstanding presentation. Fine-tuned it many times. I was doing absolutely the opposite of the saying “Done is better than perfect.”

My presentation had to be perfect.

How did it go? From the reaction of the class and comments afterwards and during the gala dinner – it went indeed great. I have received many positive comments. Moreover, I had some long discussions on how to deliver without drawings and why would it be beneficial for each stakeholder!

Each session has been rated. We are still awaiting the results and feedback. I’m thrilled to see how listeners reacted to what I presented!

Networking!

Networking at BILT is exceptional! Everybody is easily approachable and approaches you with ease. No closed mutual admiration societies. No self-selling. Instead, open minds, curiosity and genuine interest in the fields one another are representing. What do you do? How do you solve these challenges? Have you tried this or that?

I have had numerous high-lever BIM discussions which only proved my assumptions that BILT might be the collection of the sharpest minds in the AEC industry.

It was eye-opening and horizon-broadening to learn a different approach to the same problems. I came home with much more understanding of how the industry is doing in other parts of Europe (and world). What are the hot topics, what is on the horizon, what are the law regulations and challenges.

Thanks to everybody at the event I had a chance to speak to!

Key take-aways

After three hectic days of full attention during the classes and massive networking in breaks and afternoons, the BILT event came to an end. I was exhausted. But in this positive way that gives you new fuel and new ideas the next day you go to work.

What is my take on that?

BILT is the best conference I’ve ever attended

Low key, friendly and very knowledgeable. Everyone gives and everyone takes. It’s not massive in scale, but also not small, so you do meet a lot of new people throughout the day.

2. 60 minutes is a long speech, but it goes fast!

When I started preparing for the presentation I thought it was an enormously long time. After I had prepared the first mind map and presentation agenda, I realised this could easily be a three hour speech. I had to kill my darlings and shorten the session. But thanks to that it was concise and full of knowledge. And so were all the other sessions.

3. Model-based began to be a subject in many European countries.

A few years back, it was a complete novelty, now more and more countries are trying this approach or at least discussing the possibilities. I was very pleased when on a short survey at the closing plenary, some people, as the biggest take-away from the whole BILT event wrote “no drawings” and “less drawings”. That gives me motivation to further preach this method of construction and spread the word further!

4. It’s worth it to go outside of your bubble.

We are stuck in bubbles. Designers, contractors, building owners. Such an event can help us to not only meet people outside it, but talk to them beyond the current project and understand their take on the AEC industry. And this gets us step closer to better collaboration.

That was a great adventure and I felt welcomed by the BILT family. I encourage every one of you to consider this event for next year. Or even better – submit your abstract! The call for abstracts is soon to be open

One more time, a big thank you to DBEI for organising this event!

P.S. If you want to get access to all presentations and handouts from this and previous BILT conferences you can have it after buying membership at https://community.dbei.org/

The post My reflections on BILT 2024 appeared first on Bim Corner.

CDE in practice – what tools to use and when

BIM Corner Guest — Tue, 14 May 2024 11:50:59 +0000

Construction projects typically involve a wide range of stakeholders who communicate throughout several phases of the project lifecycle. Unavoidably, this process generates a massive amount of data and therefore effective management of information is crucial for every construction company. A CDE aims to provide all relevant data in a single source of truth, facilitating seamless information sharing, and fostering continuous collaboration between all parties involved. This article will present the tools that can be used as a CDE in all phases of a built asset’s lifecycle.

This post was written by BIM Corner’s Guest Author, Klaudia Jaskula.

CDE definition

CDE classification

Design and construction CDE tools

Handover and O&M tools

Challenges of using CDEs in practice

Conclusions

CDE definition

According to ISO 19650, entire information exchange in construction projects should be facilitated by a Common Data Environment (CDE) for sharing and coordinating information to enable a consistent information exchange for all organisations involved in a project. CDE is defined in the standard as “an agreed source of information for any given project or asset for collecting, managing, and disseminating each information container through a managed process” [1]. A CDE could mean both a “CDE solution” or a “CDE workflow” [2]. The “CDE solution” is a server-based or cloud-based repository that supports the CDE process by providing database administration, problem tracking, and similar features. A CDE Workflow organises the flow and management of information over an asset’s entire life cycle through the use of four Information Container States: work in progress (WIP), shared, published, or archived. You can read more about CDE workflow here and about CDE requirements and functions here.

CDE classification

Currently, there are multiple tools and solutions available on the market that can be used as a CDE, starting with simple cloud-based repositories such as Google Drive or Dropbox and ending with complex CDE solutions from software providers like Autodesk and Oracle. In my previous work [3], I conducted a series of interviews and surveys to find out what are the most popular solutions and what are their strengths and weaknesses. I also proposed a comprehensive framework to evaluate the development level of CDE platforms, as shown below.

In the framework, features related to document coordination, and communication, have been combined into a single axis related to document management. BIM integration is a distinct aspect of CDEs that is separate from document management functionalities and is therefore identified as the second axis. Security is essential in digital collaboration and has been included in the framework as the third axis of CDE development. The final axis pertains to the lifecycle functionalities that allow the use of CDE in various lifecycle phases of a built asset. The information lifecycle in construction projects can be separated into two stages: information delivery and information operation. The former covers data from the project’s initiation through its design and construction phases, resulting in the creation of PIMs (project information models). The latter encompasses data from the operation and maintenance (O&M) phase of the built asset, leading to the production of AIMs (asset information models) [1]. Ideally, a CDE solution should allow tracking of the information along the whole lifecycle of a built asset, however it is rarely a case in practice.

Design and construction CDE tools

In construction project management, the selection of appropriate digital platforms plays a pivotal role in streamlining operations and enhancing collaboration. Below, I will present a comparison of the most popular CDE solutions. Please note, that the list is not comprehensive and that the information about each solution was gathered through a series of interviews and surveys which were a part of my PhD research and show a status as of mid-2023.

BIM 360

Among the various tools available, BIM 360 from Autodesk stands out as a widely adopted solution. Offering direct synchronization with popular BIM software like Revit and Navisworks, BIM 360 facilitates real-time collaboration within shared BIM models. However, despite its advantages, some practitioners have reported limitations with BIM 360. For instance, while it excels in certain areas like RFI management, it lacks suitability codes, necessitating manual input and potentially leading to inefficiencies. Consequently, alternatives like Aconex or Viewpoint, have been used to complement these inefficiencies.

Aconex

Aconex developed by Oracle offers advanced version control, data immutability, and a unique data ownership model. Its classification of suitability status and revision control streamline information tracking, although concerns about interoperability have been raised.

Viewpoint4Projects

Viewpoint4Projects, a tool from Trimble, also commands a significant presence in the CDE landscape. Although perceived as basic and somewhat outdated, it excels in document management, particularly for revision and sign-offs, making it a preferred choice for document controllers, project managers, and design managers.

ProjectWise

ProjectWise from Bentley presents advanced document management functionalities integrated with Microsoft 365 products. While user reviews highlight its robust features, the learning curve and potential slow data transfer are its main drawbacks.

Other

Less-utilized platforms such as Deltek and Procore offer similar document management and BIM functionalities but may suffer from compatibility issues and instability, respectively.
Despite the availability of specialized CDE tools, many stakeholders lean towards simpler solutions aligned with existing workflows. Widely used cloud-based file repositories like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft SharePoint offer convenient data-sharing capabilities, albeit with compromises in security and interoperability.
In conclusion, while dedicated CDE platforms offer specialized functionalities tailored to construction project needs, the adoption of simpler solutions underscores the importance of integration with existing practices and ease of use for stakeholders across the industry.

Handover and O&M tools

In transitioning from the design and construction phases to the operation and maintenance (O&M) phase of a built asset, the landscape of information management undergoes notable shifts. While systems like CDEs are instrumental in earlier phases, the tools utilized for O&M phase management, such as Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), offer distinct requirements and functionalities.

Unlike their counterparts in design and construction, CAFM and CMMS systems are tailored to address the specific needs of asset management in the O&M phase. Insights from industry practitioners underscore the multiplicity of information sources utilized concurrently in this phase. For example, tools such as Cylon and Concept Evolution can be used for Building Management System (BMS) and CAFM functionalities. Additionally, Autodesk’s BIM 360 Ops was mentioned, albeit with reservations regarding its efficacy compared to established CAFM tools.

Facilitating the seamless transition of information between design/construction and FM systems requires specialized tools. Platforms like Springboard, gliderBIM, and Autodesk BIM 360 Glue serve this purpose, offering capabilities for gathering and managing handover data.

Springboard, provided by eDocuments, streamlines data gathering for handover, offering automation features and compatibility with various data formats. However, its integration with CDEs like Aconex remains limited.

GliderBIM, a newcomer in the market, boasts comprehensive information management capabilities across the asset lifecycle. Its integration capabilities with CAFM, EDMS, and BMS systems via API offer promise, although practical user feedback remains scarce.

Autodesk’s BIM 360 Glue facilitates a direct link between design/construction and O&M phases, streamlining handover processes. Despite its efficiency, challenges persist, with some clients lacking proper CAFM systems, and resorting to manual data gathering for example via SharePoint repositories.

In essence, while CDEs serve as foundational tools in earlier phases, the transition to the O&M phase necessitates the adoption of specialized systems tailored to the unique requirements of asset management. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration and interoperability of these tools will be critical in ensuring seamless information exchange across the asset lifecycle.

Challenges of using CDEs in practice

While recent CDE platforms provide very advanced functionalities, they still fall short of serving as a single source of truth for the entire lifecycle of a built asset [4]. Stakeholders have reported that no single platform can encompass the full range of functionalities required across different lifecycle phases. Moreover, within each phase, stakeholders often utilize multiple tools simultaneously to cater to their diverse needs and preferences.

One of the primary challenges faced is the lack of interoperability between these tools, compounded by the fact that they are provided by different vendors. This fragmentation makes the transfer of data between tools cumbersome, particularly during critical phases like handover between construction CDEs and facility management platforms.

While some opt for basic cloud storage solutions like Dropbox or SharePoint, these fall short of being complete CDE solutions. Research has shown that they lack essential functionalities and security measures required for BIM-based collaboration [5]. However, their simplicity and cost-effectiveness make them popular among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) managing less complex projects.

Even more sophisticated systems like BIM 360 or Aconex, while partially fulfilling Level 3 CDE criteria, do not consistently excel across all four areas. While they offer robust document management functionalities and integration with BIM models, they may not support BIM editing within the software itself. Similarly, collaborative BIM systems like Autodesk BIM 360 may not meet BIM security standards due to reliance on cloud service providers.

Achieving a full Level 3 CDE across all lifecycle phases remains elusive in the current market landscape. While many tools claim compliance with ISO 19650 standards, none function as a singular source of truth throughout the entire building lifecycle. Developing such a comprehensive tool is deemed impractical, prompting software vendors to focus on developing suites of tools tailored to specific lifecycle phases. However, this approach necessitates stakeholders to invest in multiple products from the same suite, posing challenges in practical implementation.

In essence, while advancements have been made in CDE development, the fragmented nature of the industry and diverse stakeholder requirements continue to pose challenges in achieving seamless information management across the building lifecycle. These challenges were recognised by emerging software providers such as BIMlauncher and Newforma which provide data integration between multiple CDE solutions.

Conclusions

In conclusion, effective information management is paramount for the success of construction projects, given their complexity and the volume of data generated over their lifetime. Common Data Environment (CDE) solutions serve as the foundation for this management in BIM-based project delivery. This article analyses the tools currently used as CDEs and their practical implementation, shedding light on their shortcomings and advantages.

CDE maturity can be classified into three levels, considering aspects like document management, BIM integration, security, and lifecycle functionality. While basic cloud repositories like Dropbox are categorized as Level 1 CDEs, more advanced tools such as Viewpoint, Asite, Procore, Deltek, or ProjectWise fall into Level 2, offering enhanced BIM integration alongside document management functionalities. Meanwhile, platforms like BIM 360 from Autodesk or BIMcollab provide Level 3 BIM integration, particularly favored for real-time BIM collaboration in multi-disciplinary settings. However, they may not excel in document management functionalities, like for example Aconex or Viewpoint do. This leads to the use of multiple tools in construction projects to meet diverse user requirements.

This post was written by BIM Corner’s Guest Author, Klaudia Jaskula.

Bibliography

1. BSI (2021) Organisation and digitization of information about buildings and civil engineering works, including building information modeling (BIM). Information management using building information modeling. Part 1: Concepts and principles. British Standards Institution

2. BIM Dictionary (2020) Common Data Environment (CDE). https://bimdictionary.com/en/common-data-environment/2. Accessed 12 Dec 2022

3. Jaskula K, Papadonikolaki E, Rovas D (2023) Comparison of current common data environment tools in the construction industry. Proc Eur Conf Comput Constr. https://doi.org/10.35490/EC3.2023.315

4. Jaskula K, Kifokeris D, Papadonikolaki E, Rovas D (2024) Common data environments in construction: state-of-the-art and challenges for practical implementation. CI. https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-04-2023-0088

5. Das M, Tao X, Cheng JCP (2021) BIM security: A critical review and recommendations using encryption strategy and blockchain. Autom Constr. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2021.103682

Klaudia Jaskula is a PhD candidate at the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction at UCL and an Early Stage Researcher in the H2020 Innovative Training Networks (ITN) project “Cloud-based Building Information Modelling (CBIM)”. Her PhD research is about blockchain-enabled CBIM for lifecycle data provenance. Her study investigates how blockchain could enhance information management workflows based on Common Data Environments during the whole lifecycle of a built asset. Previously Klaudia completed a Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Warsaw University of Technology and a Master in Architecture at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Her Master's Thesis at TUM focused on BIM implementation in the early design stages.

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Rhino Inside Tekla – Create your own tools for Tekla Structures

Krzysztof Wojslaw — Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Year after year, you wait for new Tekla Structures updates, hoping for improvements that never quite fit your project’s unique demands. But projects didn’t wait. Designs became more detailed and needed to be finished faster. There were many tools out there, but often, they just didn’t meet your exact needs. Luckily, Parametric Design has become available to every engineer, allowing you to create your own tools without being an IT developer. Rhino Inside Tekla gives Tekla users the freedom to do everything they want… and nothing they don’t.

1. The big change for the Tekla Users

For a long time, starting with the automation of repetitive and time-consuming tasks in Tekla Structures was difficult. You had to search everywhere for bits of information, and it was very confusing. If you wanted to create a tool, you had to be a C# developer and know the Tekla API by heart. Let’s be real. It is hard to be an awesome structural engineer and an experienced IT developer who knows a text-based programming language perfectly at the same time. Now, everything is changing towards low code, and creating tools becomes easier thanks to the Grasshopper Component.

2. Grasshopper Tekla Live Link vs. Rhino Inside Tekla

You may first wonder if the Grasshopper Tekla Live Link is the same as Rhino Inside Tekla.

They are two completely separate things.

In 2022, Trimble introduced the Grasshopper Component based on the innovative Rhino Inside Technology. This technology lets us integrate Rhino directly into other 64-bit Windows applications.

Here are the main differences:

The Live Link creates a real-time connection between Rhino and Tekla viewports. You can build and adjust models on the fly, but you’ll need to know how to script.
The Grasshopper-powered Tekla components, on the other hand, work like standard Tekla plugins. They can run any Grasshopper definition in the background to create objects. Normally, creating custom components in Tekla requires C# programming. Now, you just need to know Grasshopper. However, if you are the end user, you don’t need to see or interact with Grasshopper.

And here’s the best part:

You can control everything directly from Tekla’s interface, meaning you don’t have to work directly with Grasshopper. It’s similar to using a remote control panel to run Grasshopper scripts from Rhino.

The Grasshopper Component in Tekla Structures lets you use any Grasshopper definition to create objects in Tekla. Just choose a Grasshopper definition, and the component will guide you through selecting the necessary inputs in Tekla. The component dialog automatically shows options based on the parameters in your definition, even including Grasshopper’s sliders for true parametric modeling flexibility.

3. Rhino inside Tekla Workshop

I have invited industry expert Tautvydas Bakas from Doka to a live workshop to demonstrate how easy it is to create your own Tekla components for things like formwork for walls, columns, tunnels, and slabs.

Tautvydas showcases different projects, including buildings and bridges, to illustrate how flexible and powerful Tekla can be. You can view the entire workshop below. To obtain the Grasshopper files with practical exercises, register your email HERE.

4. Direct Manipulation of Grasshopper Component

More practical example showing the power of Rhino inside Tekla:

Play Video

This video showcases the power of the direct modification plugin and Grasshopper component. By simply dragging handles to trigger the Grasshopper definition, it becomes easy to create placing tools for any system and adapt them to any specific project.

5. Rhino inside Tekla for non-Grasshopper Users

The truth is, not everyone will become a computational designer to create scripts, but everyone should have the possibility to use them freely! I was super excited when Tekla released the Rhino.Inside.Tekla Grasshopper Component, giving users the ability to embed scripts.

This allows users to utilize parametric modeling without needing to navigate through the Grasshopper scripts. Not everyone is skilled at creating well-structured scripts. With the Grasshopper Component, you can control everything directly from Tekla’s interface, meaning you don’t have to work directly with Grasshopper. It’s similar to using a remote control panel to run Grasshopper scripts from Rhino or a Grasshopper player.

6. Rhino Inside Tekla Installation Guide

Here’s a checklist of essentials you need to use the Grasshopper Component based on Rhino Inside technology:

Tekla Structures License: You’ll need Tekla Structures version 2019i or newer.
Rhino Requirement: The component is compatible with Rhino 7 or newer (excluding WIP versions).
Grasshopper-Tekla Link: Make sure you have the 1.10 installer pre-release, dated 2021-11-17 or later.
Grasshopper Component Plugin for Tekla Structures: Download the latest version, 1.0, released on 2021-11-18.

Rhino 8 Important Note!
The Grasshopper Component will automatically switch to Rhino 8 upon its final release, but you will need to update the component to version 1.4 for optimal performance. You can download it FROM HERE for the time being.

Regarding the Rhino License:

Rhino License Requirement: Using Rhino.Inside requires a Rhino license. If you’re on a floating license system, ensure a Rhino license is available before launching the Grasshopper component. If a license isn’t available, the component could cause Tekla Structures to freeze due to its inability to secure a license.
License Release: The Rhino license is released when Tekla is either closed or restarted. Due to the nature of Rhino.Inside, manually releasing the license without fully closing the Tekla process is not possible.

6. Summary of Grasshopper Component

Rhino Inside Tekla lets engineers make their own design tools easily, without needing to know a lot of coding. For a long time, starting with the automation of the repetitive and time-consuming tasks in Tekla Structures was difficult. You had to search everywhere for bits of information, and it was very confusing. You didn’t have one place to learn it all, step by step, until now.

My new training, Grasshopper in Tekla, is based on more than ten years of expertise in Tekla Structures and uses proven methods from the world’s biggest projects. I’ve included tools and resources that you can freely use for drawing creation and 3D modelling in Tekla that give you the freedom to do everything you want… and nothing you don’t.

Want to know more?

Check out my latest articles:

6 Grasshopper Tekla Live Link Components You Should Know

How to start using Grasshopper Tekla Live Link?

BIM in Grasshopper – The ultimate software list

The post Rhino Inside Tekla – Create your own tools for Tekla Structures appeared first on Bim Corner.

5 reasons why you should start with 2D Drawing Automation

Krzysztof Wojslaw — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Everyone is focusing on the automation of 3D models. But what about drawing automation? Is every company just outsourcing this tedious task to developing countries? In the world of computational design, where AI is everywhere, producing drawings feels like we’re back to pencil and paper. Engineers’ potential is surely greater than just drawing lines and putting text with numbers in some places. 2D Drawing Automation of cross-sections, dimension lines, part marks, and rebar marks should be a priority for every engineer!

1. My Story of 2D drawing production

Creating drawings of sandwich walls was one of the most boring tasks in my entire career.

My first engineering job after university was at Spenncon AS Consolis group, where I worked as a Structural Engineer responsible for global analysis, calculating prefabricated elements, creating 3D models, and producing drawings – everything

However, sandwich elements were always a nightmare and took most of my time. Unlike standard walls, sandwich walls (SW) comprise many more components and complex details, such as insulation, spiro pipes for mounting, pipes for electrical cables, connection plates with various elements, and reinforcement between the inner and outer layers, etc.

Even as I write this text, I have nightmares that those times will come back, and I will have to do the same work again.

The first reason why we should automate 2D drawing production is to develop new skills rather than repeating the same patterns and doing thousands of mouse clicks.

2. Drawing Less Projects are the Future

Drawing-less projects are every engineer’s dream. I was fortunate to work in Norway, where I participated in projects that only required 3D models from 2017 onward. No drawings at all—an amazing feeling! Today, years after the first model-based project in Norway, 95% of bridge projects are delivered as model-based, without the production of 2D drawings. The IFC model is the project delivery to the client and contractor.

Should we then stop exploring automation processes of 2D drawings since everything is moving towards skipping drawings entirely and focusing only on the 3D model?

Definitely not!

Many building projects in Norway are still delivered with drawings.
Nordic countries are following the trend of skipping drawings, but it’s still a long way off, even for countries with advanced BIM capabilities like Finland, Denmark, or Sweden.
For prefab elements, steel design, and details, some drawings are necessary.
An overview drawing is mandatory for all bridges.
Sometimes, some details are still presented in drawing form to simplify the 3D model.

So, the second reason why we should automate 2D drawing production is:

This transformation into model-based projects may never happen in your country, and we already know that this change takes ages. Waiting for this point and doing nothing is the worst thing we can do. Only by changing daily manual work into more automated processes can we steer the industry in the right direction towards drawing-less projects.

3. 2D drawing automation in Tekla and Revit

As you may already be aware, there is a direct link between Grasshopper and Tekla/Revit, available for free. Every day, new users download this plugin and use it to create native objects in these two most popular pieces of software in our industry. Visual programming has become available to every engineer thanks to its simplicity.

However, there was still one piece missing:

DRAWINGS

Everyone is focused on BIM models and 3D geometry.

But…

…Approximately 70% of the time spent in Tekla or Revit is dedicated to drawing production. This is why automating just 30% of the work (3D modeling) does not yield the best possible results.

Luckily, components for drawing creation and manipulation have been created recently.

Tekla Drawing Link

This is a separate set of Grasshopper components, distinct from GH Live Link, designed for interacting with the Tekla drawing area. It is an open-source project, which means it is available for free, and everyone can examine the code! Grzegorz Olszewski did a remarkable job with this in his free time.

Revit Drawing Link

The entire Rhino.Inside.Revit project is an exciting development sponsored by Robert McNeel & Associates that brings the power of Rhino and Grasshopper into the Autodesk Revit environment. In the Rhino.Inside.Revit plugin, we can find several components that help us with drawing creation.

In the documentation tab, we can find components created for Drafting, Sheets, Views, and Graphic Overrides. What can you do with these components? Create Detail Lines, Add Regions, Create Texts, Add Detail Items, Add Symbols, Dimensions, Tags, Revisions, and Images.

So, the third reason why we should automate 2D drawing production is: Tools are already available and easy to learn. You don’t have to be an IT developer to create your own script for drawing automation.

4. Practical examples of 2D Drawing automation

4.1. GA Drawing with Level Marks

Computational design is not about completing your projects with one click, as many think. It’s about reducing hundreds of clicks to one. As demonstrated in the video below, a small script automatically creates a General Arrangement drawing.

This script can either create a new drawing or reuse an already open one. What exactly does the script do?

Based on the selection from the model, it creates a new, flat view that includes the input elements.
It inserts elevation dimensions at the top/bottom of the column and at the top of the brackets.
It positions the new view.

4.2. Sandwich Wall Drawing

As I already mentioned, creating drawings of sandwich walls was one of the most boring tasks in my entire career. Finally, there is a smart way to avoid this tedious task.

As demonstrated in the video below, we can create numerous small scripts and set up tools to automate Sandwich Walls (SW):

The creation and correct placement of cross-sections in the drawing.
The dimensioning of specific elements.
The modification of visibility for selected lines or elements.
Assigning correct UDA and properties.

So, the fourth reason why we should automate 2D drawing production is: To save time and use it for quality assurance of the 3D model and final 2D drawing.

5. Conclusions about 2D drawing automation

70% of the time spent in Tekla Structures and Revit is dedicated to the manual process of drawing production.

What are the consequences?

Performing repetitive tasks makes work more boring.
Stagnation occurs; you’re not developing your skills.
As a result, there’s poor motivation to work.

Consider the time savings that could be used for Quality Assurance of the model rather than manually clicking the mouse to create lines. I believe architects’ and engineers’ potential extends far beyond merely drawing lines and placing text with numbers in certain places.

That’s why the fifth reason why we should automate 2D drawing production is: To have more fun at work!

For a long time, starting with the automation of the repetitive and time-consuming tasks in Tekla Structures was difficult. You had to search everywhere for bits of information, and it was very confusing. You didn’t have one place to learn it all, step by step, until now.

My new training, Grasshopper in Tekla, is based on more than ten years of expertise in Tekla Structures and uses proven methods from the world’s biggest projects. I’ve included tools and resources that you can freely use for drawing creation and 3D modelling in Tekla that give you the freedom to do everything you want… and nothing you don’t.

Join the waiting List and get the best offer!

Check out my latest articles:

6 Grasshopper Tekla Live Link Components You Should Know

How to start using Grasshopper Tekla Live Link?

BIM in Grasshopper – The ultimate software list

The post 5 reasons why you should start with 2D Drawing Automation appeared first on Bim Corner.

SUPER IFC. What to include in the file?

Marcin Pszczolka — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 19:43:20 +0000

If you’re here, you’ve probably already read the first part of the article about IFC and what an ideal file should contain.

You can find it here.

I invite you to continue the discussion on this topic.

I’m happy to share further thoughts on this issue

If you’re interested in the topic of IFC 4.3, don’t forget to check out other articles dedicated to this subject on our blog.

ifcPropertySets

We can certainly consider one of the main reasons we use the IFC format is the ability to add a significant amount of information to individual objects. That’s why I’ve often heard arguments for using IFC 2×3 in infrastructure projects, even though that standard isn’t perfectly tailored to the discipline.

This capability mainly arises from what are known as property sets. These sets allow for detailed descriptions of data. Although each IFC class provides default property sets, they often prove inadequate and don’t meet users’ expectations.

In practice, custom properties are often preferred. I extensively discussed this issue in the article (link), but I’d like to emphasize one crucial thing. For properties to be correctly saved, it’s necessary to precisely match data types for property values. This is crucial for the effective interpretation of data from IFC files and their further processing.

For example, when we want to save an exact number, it’s best to use the “Real” data type; for measure numbers, “Integer” is preferred, and for texts, “String.” Properly matching data types facilitates later data analysis, such as when we want to sum all the numbers, etc.

We also shouldn’t forget about QuantitySets. In a nutshell, they work very similarly to Property Sets but allow for adding values, quantities, areas, etc.

ifcColourRGB

Colors in IFC serve a important role in identifying various elements of buildings or infrastructure, making it easier to recognize individual parts of the model and adding a visual dimension.

They can be used to categorize different types of data within the model, such as by labeling different types of building materials with distinct colors.

Moreover, colors can also be utilized to differentiate the level of advancement of various objects (e.g., MMI status).

In the IFC model, color is represented by the ifcColourRGB object, which defines RGB values ranging from 0 to 1. However, RGB colors are commonly presented using values from 0 to 255. Consequently, RGB colors stored in the IFC format and in BIM programs are converted accordingly.

ifcMaterial

Material is very important in every structural component, forming the basis of its existence. In BIM models, material data is an integral part and is among the most frequently included information in construction projects.

Within the IFC standard, there exists a dedicated definition known as ifcMaterial, designed for inputting material information. While standard PropertySets can also serve this purpose, ifcMaterial offers a structured approach to representing material properties in the model.

Materials can be added to elements directly as ifcMaterial, represented as a single layer (ifcMaterialLayer), or as a set of multiple layers (ifcMaterialLayerSet). For instance, a building wall might comprise various layers of differing thicknesses, each made of diverse materials.

Moreover, IfcMaterial can include presentation details such as line styles, hatch patterns, or surface colors. Additionally, materials can possess their unique properties. Thus, material information stands as a crucial element that merits inclusion in every IFC model.

ifcClassification

Imagine you’re part of a team working on an international BIM project. Your goal is to effectively manage the information model, which encompasses various types of objects. You not only want to describe these objects according to the standard classes available in the IFC schema but also customize them to local classification standards such as CoClass, UniClass, or NVDB (Norwegian Building Data Classification).

Additionally, to facilitate work in an international team, you plan to add translations for each object in the user’s native language.

In this situation, IFC classification becomes an invaluable tool for incorporating this information into our objects. While there is the possibility of manually entering data, both in terms of adapting to local standards and assigning the appropriate translations, we can utilize the classification connection mechanism with bsDD (BuildingSMART Data Dictionary). It’s worth noting that although bsDD is not necessary for using IFC classification, it provides an excellent way to comply with external classification standards.

In general, IFC Classification allows us to more efficiently manage our data by enabling the addition of external information.

Type

In the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, it’s essential to understand the difference between “type” and “occurrence.” For example, when creating drawings of windows, in most cases, we define a window type rather than a specific instance. Each window installed on-site is treated as an “occurrence” of that type. This difference is also significant in the context of cost estimation. Instead of assessing each individual window, we estimate costs based on the window type.

Similarly, in object management, we distinguish between product types (such as a specific model from a manufacturer) and specific “instances,” possessing unique identifiers such as barcodes or serial numbers.

Therefore, a significant element in data exchange formats (IFC) is types (ifcTypeObject). Although not all programs support this mechanism, it’s worth appreciating its benefits. With proper implementation, it can contribute to reducing file size by referencing one geometry multiple times. Additionally, it allows for adding information or properties to a type once, instead of placing them on multiple objects.

Summary

Summarizing, I would like to emphasize that the above text is a subjective assessment based on my experience.

The entire text is based on my observations, and I believe that the mentioned elements constitute the absolute minimum that should be understandable to users of IFC files.

Of course, there is the possibility of expanding the list with additional points, but I believe that those listed are the foundation that should characterize a good IFC file.

Thank you for reading the article, and I encourage you to continue reading further texts on this topic.

The post SUPER IFC. What to include in the file? appeared first on Bim Corner.

First steps to deliver BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D

BIM Corner Guest — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 05:46:00 +0000

There are still many doubts and myths regarding the topic of BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D. In this context, this article aims to clarify important points for the contracting and execution of BIM assets. It also includes 5 methods for developing BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D.

This post was written by BIM Corner’s Guest Author, Guilherme Guignone

Defining BIM-based construction cost estimation - BIM 5D

The universe of use of the BIM methodology encompasses many references, both national and international. Something that must be standardized is the definition of nomenclatures of topics related to the use of the BIM methodology, aiming to increase assertiveness in discussions.

Some references I recommend are:
a) the BIM Dictionary, which can be accessed at: https://bimdictionary.com/

and

b) The U.S. General Services Administration dictionary, which can be accessed at: https://www.gsa.gov/real-estate/design-construction/3d4d-building-information-modeling/bim-guides/bim-guide- terminology/glossary-a-e

How does the BIM Dictionary approach the topic of BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D?

According to the Dictionary, we have:

“The fifth modelling dimension (5D) refers to 4D + cost. That is, a model (or modelling workflow) is considered to be 5D when cost is linked/embedded within BIModels and Model Components. 5D is used for the purposes of generating Cost Estimates and practicing Target Value Design”

It is interesting to highlight some points in this definition.

Initially, it is defined that BIM or BIM 5D must be added to the use of BIM 4D (planning and control of constructions). However, then in the same statement it is mentioned that it refers to a modeling workflow that the cost is linked/embedded in BIM Models and model components. Therefore, according to the definition, the use of 5D BIM should not necessarily be related to the use of 4D BIM, but rather that there should be a forecast of costs in the BIM workflow.

However, this issue is still not clear with this definition alone.

What does the U.S. General Services Administration say?

There is no definition of BIM 5D provided in the GSA documents.

What does Penn State University say?

It includes 2 important pieces of information on the subject.

The first information is that it considers BIM uses and BIM dimensions in the same way. In practice, there is no difference. According to Figure 1, for example, the planning and control of the execution of the construction is mentioned as 4D and the BIM 5D is mentioned only as cost estimates. Therefore, the terminology dimension and uses, in practice, are considered to be the same thing.

The second issue is the definition of BIM-based cost estimating, according to Penn State University:

“A process in which BIM can be used to assist in the generation of accurate quantity take-offs and cost estimates throughout the lifecycle of a project. This process allows the project team to see the cost effects of their changes, during all phases of the project, which can help curb excessive budget overruns due to project modifications.”

Once again, we have confirmation that BIM 5D corresponds to the use of cost information in the development of models, which can be used throughout the project life cycle to assist in decision making.

In this context, it is important to design process solutions and tools to adopt BIM 5D in the development of projects integrated into the model quality assurance strategy. This strategy is the responsibility of the BIM Coordinator in the projects, developing the BIM Execution Plans and monitoring their execution, and those who will prepare the project contracting notices.

It is necessary to include these determinations in the public notices for contracting engineering projects and/or in the Pre-Contract BIM Execution Plans so that the BIM use is covered correctly and the need to deliver this use to the Contractor and Contractor is clear.

Another fundamental observation is that, often, for example in Brazil, according to Decree 10,306 (2020), it is necessary to deliver two BIM uses together: BIM 4D and BIM 5D.

Therefore, even in accordance with the understanding that a project that needs to deliver BIM 5D should not be obliged to deliver, if not provided for in the Contract, planning and control of the execution of the construction based on BIM – BIM 4D, the Brazilian Decree requests that both BIM uses must be delivered.

It is important, in this context, to design tool and process strategies to integrate 4D and 5D BIM uses, whether integrated or used alone.

In short, if the notice only requests the delivery of 5D BIM it is not necessary to deliver the use of 4D BIM. If the delivery of both uses is contemplated in the public notice for contracting engineering projects, solutions must be incorporated to deliver both BIM uses.

The prominent question we have is how to execute these uses?

What are the possibilities today?

In this article, I highlighted 5 options for executing BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D.

I also highlight the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each one.

Budgeting adopting the CAD methodology

Initially, an example of budgeting using the CAD-based methodology will be presented. As an example, we can prepare projects in AutoCAD software, obtain the quantities by surveying vector elements in the software’s work plan, using lisp routines, and, after that, manually insert the quantities into xls spreadsheets.

In this process, the elements identified on the screen are not BIM objects, they are just points, lines, polygons and others. We also do not have the benefits related to the development of BIM projects based on processes, tools and people.

We have a laborious manual extraction with great potential for errors and, furthermore, we do not have cost information linked to the model components as premises for making design decisions.

Below are 5 ways to budget based on BIM. They all have in common that they contemplate ways to incorporate costs in the development process of BIM models, providing cost information to also be used for project decision-making, from its initial stages.

Also in common are strategies for developing 4D BIM linked to costs.

BIM-Based Budgeting Methods – BIM 5D

BIM Budgeting – Option 1: Budgeting based on extracting IFC quantities

The first of the methods is based on extracting the IFC model from proprietary software and importing the IFC model into the Navisworks software (Audodesk). In Navisworks, it is possible to estimate quantities and also organize the quantities in the best way according to what is contemplated in the Contract.

It is also possible to include resources for the budget and create rules containing calculations for budgeting, for example: adopting a quantity of kg per cubic meter of material or adding a number of equipment and/or employees to perform a certain task. The extraction of quantities can be carried out in xls format.

However, until this workflow stage, we would only be attending to the quantity extraction process. For budgeting, we can enter the quantities into the server of an online budgeting system (in Brazil we have Orçafascio; https://orcafascio.com/) and multiply them with the cost values, from official databases.

After this, it is possible to plan and execute the work based on BIM (BIM 4D) and insert cost values into the construction execution stages. This makes it possible to consider costs at each stage of work progress and obtain the impacts of possible design changes. We can carry out this process at any time during project execution.

The premise for executing this workflow is that we initially have an IFC modeled accordingly, in aspects of graphical detail and non-graphical information.

The Navisworks file can be saved in the nwf extension and every time we update the authorial model, we can extract the IFC and import the updated IFC into Navisworks saved in nwf and ask it to synchronize. The quantity will be generated with the same rules. In the end, we can integrate the results of extracting the Navisworks quantities in xls with a model in Power BI to better visualize the Project information.

An advantage of this process is the number of tools involved for 4D and 5D BIM uses, just two. Modeling tools and the use of Navisworks. Below is an outline of the methodology.

At the following address you can find the process of structuring quantities in Navisworks and budgeting with Orçafascio according to option 1 of budgeting based on BIM

The following link shows the use of Power BI as an important tool for visualizing and interpreting information.

In the following link incorporation of costs in BIM 4D

BIM Budgeting – Option 2: Budgeting based on extracting quantities from the authorial model

Option 2 is that we do not use Navisworks to organize quantity information. In these cases, we can organize the information within the proprietary software itself. In this example, we use add-ons such as Dynamo or DiRoots that work in the Revit software (Autodesk), for example, being able to organize and select quantities to be exported and obtain very good results.

The export of quantities included natively by Revit tends to present errors, which are often difficult to resolve. You need to export in txt format and then convert to xls format to view the data in a spreadsheet.

Many times, the process alone does not guarantee quality, as in the video I share below. The use of Dynamo is also interesting, because like Navisworks, we can incorporate rules and calculations to express, in certain items, specific quantities, in addition to enabling the selection of items assertively.

The downside of Dynamo is the learning curve required to create visual programming to operationalize processes. Another criticism of Dynamo is that the script that will be developed to extract quantities will only be used for that model, requiring the script to be adjusted for other projects with different objects.

After extraction and budgeting in Orçafascio, costs can be incorporated into BIM 4D according to the previous process. In this case, Navisworks is also used to use BIM 4D and BIM 4D with costs (BIM 5D). The disadvantage is that this solution does not suit use in disciplines designed with different software from different manufacturers, such as extraction from IFC as the previous method contemplates.

Below is a video about the process of extracting quantities in Revit:

5D BIM Budgeting – Option 3: Dynamic Budgeting

The third option I call dynamic budgeting.

The name was given because all design changes to be made to the authorial model are quickly updated along with the costs. It is not necessary to carry out any extraction of quantities for this. The compositions and inputs are made directly in the proprietary software and linking the information to the model objects.

Everything is done together. There is an integrated budget database and it is possible to do everything in the same place. The budget (quantity and unit costs) is synchronized to the Orçafascio server and we have the budget on the server and can be adjusted and extract quantity and budget information with all its compositions easily.

The disadvantage is that the functionality suggested in this article, called OrçaBIM; https://orcafascio.com/orcabim/, it is only possible for Revit. As disadvantages we also have that, at times due to fluctuations in the local network infrastructure or the company server, the insertion of new steps and inputs can be time-consuming and require waiting times for loading.

Below, we have a summary of the functionality, known as OrçaBIM, and a video demonstrating the process step by step.

Access to the video on dynamic budgeting (OrçaBIM)

BIM Budgeting – Option 4: Budgeting based on the import of IFC and external 4D BIM

Option 4 I named as budgeting based on the import of IFC and external BIM 4D. In this modality, it is necessary to export the IFC from the authorial model and this IFC is imported into software that will read the information from the IFC model and the budget will be created in the same software.

In these types of software, it is necessary to select the appropriate information to use the appropriate object data, for example: identification by category or by materials and identification of the type of category or type of material. After this filtering, we will have the necessary information and will be able to assign cost compositions to these items.

There are cost databases linked to these software for budgeting. In the end, the values can be extracted in XLS formats or the IFC can be extracted with the costs incorporated. This new IFC can be loaded into software such as Navisworks to carry out BIM 4D with cost values, in these cases having costs linked to the execution of the construction.

As an example, use ACCA’s Primus IFC software;

https://www.accasoftware.com/ptb/software-5d-bim

BIM Budgeting – Option 5: Budgeting based on the import of IFC and internal BIM 4D

The next option has the same previous process, however it is possible to carry out BIM 4D in the same budgeting software. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the effort of extracting quantities, preparing the budget and using BIM 4D in addition to the costs in the same software, centralizing the entire process.

As disadvantages, many organizations already work with the 4D BIM preparation process in other software such as Navisworks and SYNCHRO (Bentley Sistems) and are already mature in these software. These organizations will possibly continue to maintain this work process by not adopting the 4D BIM option in a unified software.

A good part of this work process is the use of Alto Qi Visus (AltoQi) software;

https://www.altoqi.com.br/visus

Below is a comparison between the 5 methods. It is possible to verify that each option has advantages and disadvantages. It is necessary to consider the investment potential of the office, its existing technology park, the learning curve of each software, among others.

This analysis must be contained in the organization’s Implementation and Implementation process. It is important to mention that there is no best tool solution, but only those that will provide the best results considering the peculiarities of your organization.

BIM 5D - Conclusion

It is concluded that it is necessary to first evaluate how the contract for a given project will be covered. If compliance with BIM 4D and BIM 5D is mentioned, in this case, it is necessary to evaluate the investment potential in relation to options between methods, the learning curve and solutions related to the field of existing processes, tools and people.

If only budgeting in BIM (BIM 5D) is requested, BIM budgeting solutions can be adopted without adopting BIM 4D, such as the dynamic budgeting solution without BIM 4D, solution 3. It is important to highlight that any of the solutions must be aligned with the quality assurance strategy for BIM models designed in the BIM Execution Plan – PEB and which must be properly executed.

The incorporation of cost information into models must be made available throughout the project development process, even if in the form of an estimate. A good tip is to agree partial project deliveries with the Contractor and provide in the notices so that budgets are presented in these partial deliveries and can guide project decision-making.

The discussions involving budgeting based on BIM must be deepened so that we can carry out tenders for contracting engineering projects and execute projects using BIM 5D that make it possible to add value to constructions, generating more economical constructions with high performance in terms of functional and constructive aspects.

Vocabulary:

Proprietary software: Licensed with exclusive rights to the producer. Depending on where the software is distributed, it may be covered by patents, copyrights, as well as limitations on its export and use in third countries. Its use, redistribution or modification is prohibited or limited, requiring you to request permission to do so or restricting it in such a way that it is not possible to do so freely. The expression was created in opposition to the concept of free software.
BCF (BIM Collaboration Format): A scheme used to exchange information and model views between individuals, regardless of the software tools used. It is typically used to highlight issues discovered during model reviews. The schema allows the exchange of comments and images linked to specific model components
IFC (Industry Foundation Classes): Neutral specification and non-proprietary BIM file format developed by BuildingSMART. Major software tools support importing and exporting IFC files
CDE: Common Data Environment: An “agreed source of information” for any specific project or asset, to collect, manage and disseminate each “package” of information through a managed process (ISO 19650-1 ( 3.3.15)).The ‘CDE solution’ is a server or cloud-based technology with database management, transmission, issue tracking and related features that support the CDE workflow

I work as a BIM Coordinator at INFRAERO, the Brazilian Airport Infrastructure Company. INFRAERO is a Brazilian federal public company that already operates and manages 66 airports in Brazil, accounting for 97% of passenger movement in the country. In 2023, the company will celebrate its 50th anniversary. In 2022, INFRAERO received the BIM CREA SC 2022 award for the best BIM Project, for which I served as the BIM Coordinator. In addition to my role as a BIM Coordinator, I am also an Architect and Security Engineer. I hold a Master's degree in Civil Engineering and I am currently a PhD candidate. I am a BIM Specialist in Infrastructure, certified by the University of Barcelona. I am also certified by the International Civil Aviation Organization and the Airports Council International in the Airport Safety Professional Program. Alongside my professional work, I am a professor of postgraduate courses that focus on the use of BIM and Airport Engineering. Furthermore, I am a researcher and a member of The Scientific Research Honor Society.

The post First steps to deliver BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D appeared first on Bim Corner.

What SUPER IFC should have?

Marcin Pszczolka — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 17:25:12 +0000

In today’s world of engineering and architecture, effective data exchange plays a crucial role, facilitated in part by the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard.

Working with IFC 4.3 and its implementation in Trimble Quadri software has allowed me to identify key elements that a well-exported IFC file should contain.

In this article, I will attempt to describe these elements and concepts that are essential for a comprehensive and reliable data exchange between different programs and designers. I will discuss both the technical aspects of the IFC file structure and concepts related to interoperability, readability, and data consistency, providing practical examples for better understanding.

I hope that this article will be inspiring and useful for those interested in IFC and project data exchange.

NOTE: This article is divided into two parts.

Welcome to the first part of the article.

If you’re interested in the topic of IFC 4.3, don’t forget to check out other articles dedicated to this subject on our blog.

Header

The header of an IFC file is important in determining the basic characteristics of the document. It contains a series of essential pieces of information that allow for a quick understanding of its content. From the header, we can read the file name, saved path, creation date, authorship, and affiliation with a specific organization. Additionally, the header reveals information about the software used and the file’s generator.

One of the most significant elements that can be gleaned from the header is the purpose for which the file was generated. This is determined by the Model View Definition (MVD) and the IFC format that was applied. It’s worth noting that understanding these details is essential for properly interpreting the content of the file and its application in the context of a specific project.

In practice, sometimes we may encounter difficulties opening a file, especially if the application doesn’t support a specific IFC format, such as IFC 4x3_ADD2. In such situations, one workaround is to employ a certain trick that sometimes yields desired results. This involves modifying the format in the header, for example, changing from “IFC 4x3_ADD2” to the standard “4×3” format. Although this method doesn’t always work, it can be helpful at times, especially when the file contains basic objects and parameters. However, it’s important to remember that this is a temporary solution and doesn’t guarantee full compatibility with every application.

Spatial Breakdown Structure

For an IFC file to be well-defined, it must contain a spatial breakdown structure. This structure refers to the division of the project into smaller areas according to spatial layout, facilitating data management and analysis. Although there are other methods of decomposing projects, spatial structure predominates in most industries and project tasks. This makes it the primary schema for construction projects and an essential element for effective data exchange.

In the IFC file structure, a key element is the ifcProject object, which defines the context of the entire project. It contains information about the units used in the project and may include data about the coordinate system. Another essential element is ifcSite, which provides additional information about the construction area. Subsequent levels of the structure are represented by specific domains such as ifcBuilding, ifcRoad, ifcRailway, or ifcMarineFacility, which specify the characteristics of individual buildings or objects.

A well-defined IFC file structure is essential for proper data interpretation and can bring many benefits in the IFC file analysis process. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the spatial structure is clear and aligned with the project requirements.

For more information on the significance and implementation of spatial structure, you can read the article available [here].

Objects

In the context of an IFC file, it is important to accurately assign classes describing both existing and planned physical elements. Unlike simple proxy objects, precise mapping to the appropriate classes brings greater added value.

IFC classes are created to facilitate model interpretation, ensuring universality, flexibility, and ease of working with data.

Though it requires some time investment, well-considered mapping between software and the IFC file significantly improves the quality of exported data. Thoughtful matching of classes to model elements can substantially contribute to the effective interpretation of data by various stakeholders involved in the design process and facilitate their further utilization.

Attributes

Classes should be carefully described by assigning them appropriate attributes. Although the type and number of attributes may vary between classes, I believe that each object from the IfcProduct group should be equipped with at least the following attributes: Name, Description, PredefinedType, and ObjectType, which significantly facilitates their more accurate identification.

It is also extremely important to consider certain mechanisms, for example, when the value of the PredefinedType attribute takes the value USERDEFINED, then the value of ObjectType should be utilized.

To maintain consistency, it is crucial to determine the value of the ObjectType attribute in advance. This is particularly important because this attribute allows the use of String type values, which can lead to potential issues. Therefore, it is extremely important to appropriately define the ObjectType at the preliminary stage of the project.

It is also worth remembering additional attributes, such as Tag and UsageType. These two attributes are particularly important when describing spatial objects or others belonging to the IfcElement group. Including them allows for an even more detailed description and identification of objects in the model.

Geometric representation

When exploring IFC classes, we encounter a variety of geometric representations that play a significant role in this domain. These representations include points, curves, surfaces, and solids.

It’s important to understand that each of these types can be described in different ways. For instance, when it comes to solids, there are several techniques like “swept solid,” “solid model,” “advancedBrep,” or “CSG.” However, it’s crucial to note that not all software supports all types of geometry.

One commonly used and reliable option for solid representations is Brep, which stands for “Boundary Representation.” This method involves precisely defining the boundaries of a three-dimensional shape to describe it. In a Brep, the solid is made up of interconnected surface elements that define the boundary between internal and external points.

Therefore, it’s beneficial at the outset of a project to assess which geometries are supported by the software used for creating models and whether the program used to analyze the object can interpret this geometry.

An example of a geometry that might pose challenges for IFC file viewers is “SectionedSolidHorizontal.”

Summary of part one

In the first part of the article, I thoroughly discussed the key aspects to consider in an IFC file. I focused on the significance of the header, spatial structure, objects, attributes, and the method of geometric representation.

These elements form the essential foundation for effective data exchange between different programs and among designers.

In the next part, I will continue this topic. I invite you to keep reading, where I will present further aspects that an IFC file should encompass.

>>> PART 2 <<<

The post What SUPER IFC should have? appeared first on Bim Corner.

Why you have to visit BILT conference?

Konrad Fugas — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

If you are into conferences, you must have heard about BILT. This is THE conference. THE event to be at.

And if you are not often on conferences or by some accident haven’t heard about it I want to present to you what BILT is and why this is probably the best BIM conference in Europe.

What is BILT?

BILT stands for Buildings, Infrastructure, Lifecycle, Technology and this name encompasses exactly what this event is about. The event is run by users for users which makes it the best place to get real advice from people who seriously know their stuff, yet continue to learn themselves.

Organised by DBEI – a non-profit organisation that recently went into collaboration with BuildingSMART International. The organisation itself was started by technology passionates and up until today is run by such people. You can read about DBEI history here.

How does BILT ensure the highest presentation quality?

The quality of the presented materials is one of the core values of the event. There is no place for boring blah, blah, self-empowering bragging or selling from the stage. This event is for sharing knowledge. How do organisers ensure it? There are some key points.

75 to 150 minutes presentation

It is long. The time allotted for one presentation allows for a deep exploration of a presented subject. It is demanding both for the presenter and the audience. (God I remember those boooring lectures at the university!).

Over an hour of talking is way too long to just glide through the subject’s surface – a presenter has to dive deeper showcasing why, how and what he or she has been working on.

On the other hand, it also requires a long attention span from the audience – if you have chosen to attend a session, you have to have a genuine interest in the subject. Otherwise, the venue offers many other possibilities to spend one hour of your life.

Those two aspects meet – there is a competition between the sessions. There are five parallel sessions, so presenters have to make a good first impression to draw the attention of the listeners. If the presenter delivered an absorbing topic that was enjoyably presented, he or she would receive positive feedback and a higher score in the event app. There is a ranking of presentations and the 10 best presenters receive additional recognition by being promoted by DBEI after the event.

Schedule and preparation long before the event

Another measure to improve the quality of the presentations is the delivery schedule. It is both long and tight at the same time!

The submission deadline is more than half a year before the event (this year – November 2023). Thereafter, the jury chooses speakers by blind review of the received submissions to avoid being biased by names or companies the speakers represent. Being chosen is not the end, merely a beginning!

Two months before the presentation speakers have to deliver a session outline with a predicted timeline. This is to ensure that the session is well structured and thought through.

Consequently, three weeks before the event everything has to be ready. Forget about last-minute work and staying up three nights before the event to finish the slide deck! The delivery deadline applies to all materials.

This is the next upvote for the event quality.

Rich hand-outs and tips & tricks

The materials delivered by the speakers are extensive. Every speaker has to prepare two documents in addition to the presentation:

Hand-outs – this is a session guidance that comprises what the speaker is going to talk about. The attendees receive a printed copy at the entrance so that they can track the progress of the presentation and make notes.
Tips & tricks – three or more tips from the speaker. Some practical take-away from the presentation that can be used in everyday work

Creating these documents is not an easy task, yet gives immense value to the attendees. Many times during different events I wanted to simultaneously keep track of what was being said, make notes and also take pictures of some graphs from the slide. Too many tasks at once made it impossible to organise my notes! By having a handout I could focus on the content and just make short notes on the side.

I have also heard that many attendees keep and review their printed copies for years after the event!

Mentor program for speakers

This year’s novum! A mentor program for fresh speakers at BILT. Each new speaker gets allocated one mentor who can answer all their questions about the event, presentation and whatever they need.

I find it helpful and comforting to have the possibility to exchange my thoughts and ask questions about the event, the audience and the vibe before delivering the presentation.

My favorite sessions at BILT 2024 conference

I have studied the schedule along and across and I have chosen the topics that interest me the most. Here is my list of sessions I’m definitely going to attend. If you want to find your own set, head straight to: https://bilteur2024.dekon.com.tr/schedule/

Data Analytics in the AEC - Stories of the past 4 years.

Konrad Sobon

The data guru and one of the founding fathers of Dynamo forum. I think Konrad was already creating Dynamo packages when I was trying to solve my first integrals at university! I am also a data geek and would love to hear the stories from my name-fellow.

Interoperability Workflows at Autodesk

Lejla Secerbegovic, Krzysztof Jedrzejewski and Luca Marzi

In my day-to-day duties, I often use Autodesk products and work with IFC files. Would love to hear what is new about in integration of open standards within Autodesk’s ecosystem

Next-Level Data Viz: Taking Project Analysis to New Heights with Speckle & PowerBI

Kevin Fielding

As a PowerBI learner, I always look for potential ways of using it. Interesting to learn how Speckle, Revit and PowerBI can work together.

Harnessing AI for Historic Asset Analysis & Real-time Sensory Integration for Maintenance

Valentin Noves

Real-time sensors and AI. These are the subjects that are undoubtedly going to grow in the AEC industry in the near future. Interesting to check how others already take advantage of it for Facility Management purposes.

Optimizing Construction Schedules with Data Analytics

Pablo Derendinger

Everything about Data Analytics catches my attention and this session has gotten my eye as well – this talk explores how Data Analytics can significantly optimize construction schedules.

A journey from 0 to 2.5M sqm in a year

Lucia Munoz

This session is about a building owner’s journey from having no BIM knowledge to managing more than 2.5M sqm in BIM in a year. Sounds promising to see a case study on how an organisation can develop their digitalisation and what they have gained through the implementation of BIM methodology.

Sessions 5 and 6 are killing me! They are at the same time! Both sound extremely interesting. Maybe I can copy myself to attend both…

An Engaging Domestic Asset Information Model in Notion

Thomas Corries

Thomas is another experienced BILT speaker. We had a chance to talk since Thomas also takes part in a mentor program and he is my mentor for my speech.

I have tested Notion a bit and it looked like a very capable tool. I would love to learn how to set it up to draw together data from different sources and how to maintain this platform to be always up to date.

Implementing AI in Revit for Construction Code Verification

Valentin Noves

ChatGPT is everywhere now, but in fact, I haven’t seen it in Revit yet! This session aims to change this! Cannot wait to learn how to integrate Revit model data with AI and how to query the model using natural language. This might be a tipping point in data management for “non-data-oriented people”.

How to succeed in building an 8 km subway with 6 stations directly from BIM.

Magne Ganz

The giant subway project in Oslo – Fornebubanen – is going to be the topic of this presentation. I have already seen some presentations about this construction investment and they are always impressive (check for example this one at Autodesk University). Magne is a knowledgeable person and openly shares his knowledge. I am sure this session is going to be a star!

My contribution to BILT

Last but not least I am also going to toss some pennies to this fountain of knowledge. I am going to showcase the project I am currently involved in – New University Hospital in Stavanger. I will focus on sharing how we had set up the project and what was my role in succeeding in the construction of this huge hospital entirely without drawings. My session is on the last day (May 9th, Thursday at 14:45) and it is called:

$1 Billion Project Built Fully Without Drawings

Konrad Fugas

I invite all of you to come and see me in Riga! I would love to chat and high-five each one of you!

Summary

I think you understand now why BILT is such a big thing in our bubble. If you want to deepen and expand your knowledge within the BIM methodology, this is the event to be at!

Sincerely, if you have a budget to visit only one conference this year, make it to BILT! Register as long as there are seats available! You can do it here:

https://dekon.com.tr/bilteurope2024/en/REGISTRATION.html

P.S. This article is NOT sponsored. I just genuinely recommend the BILT conference

The post Why you have to visit BILT conference? appeared first on Bim Corner.

5 key areas of BIM Coordinators role – part 2

Ignacy Lozinski — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 06:54:00 +0000

Last week, we began examining the five key aspects of a BIM Coordinator’s role: Strategy, Model Setup, Coordination, Issue Management, and Communication.

These areas intersect and overlap, underscoring that BIM Coordination is not merely model checking, but a multifaceted profession with diverse responsibilities. In the first part of the article, we tackled the first two areas.

This week, we will delve into the remaining three.

If you haven’t had a chance to read the first part, here is the link

https://bimcorner.com/bim-coordinators-role/

Now, without further ado, let’s begin.

#3 - Coordination

Let’s now talk about the third area of a BIM Coordinator’s work. This time let’s talk about Coordination.

We, as BIM Coordinators will be working in this area most of the time, so we’ll stay here for a while:)

In the previous article, I highlighted the role of a BIM Coordinator in assisting design teams to build their models and ensure data quality.

These models are then forwarded to the BIM Coordinator for a quality check.

As BIM Coordinators, our responsibility is to ensure all the models we review meet the required standards. We discussed these standards in the strategy phase (in the first part of the article).

Essentially, we analyze BIM requirements, determine what needs to be checked in the model, and then perform a model check.

Model Checks

Alright, so when we talk about model checking, this is where things really start to get interesting!

Before we get started, there are three key questions we need to grapple with. These are going to form the backbone of our process and guide us every step of the way.

First up, we’ve got to figure out exactly WHAT it is we’re going to be checking within our model. This might sound straightforward, but trust me, it’s not as simple as it seems. There’s a lot of things we need to consider, so we’ll need to be specific and clear about what we’re looking for.
Then we need to decide on HOW we’re going to go about this check. This is about the tools we’ll use, the methods we’ll employ, and the approach we’ll take. We’re not just ticking boxes here, we’re conducting a thorough, comprehensive, and systematic review.
Finally, we’ve got to pin down the timing of it all. WHEN is the ideal moment to carry out this check? Timing is crucial here. We don’t want to start too early, but we also can’t afford to leave it too late. So, we’ll need to determine the perfect window for our check.

WHAT we check - Graphical data

As I mentioned before there are many things we can check in the model. I divided it into 3 groups. The first one is geometry.

Typical geometry checks can include:

Collisions: This is the most popular check, involving whether the 3D geometry of different building elements clash with each other.
Distances: This involves checking if the distance between two or more elements is appropriate.
Location: We check whether the models are properly aligned in relation to each other and use the same coordinate system.
Duplicates control: This involves checking whether there are two identical model objects in the same place.
Presence: We check the existence of certain building elements.

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WHAT we check - Non-graphical data

The next aspect to examine is the non-graphic data.

This type of review concentrates on information stored in parameters within the model. Typical checks may include:

Confirming the presence or absence of parameters, meaning we examine whether the necessary parameters exist within the model.
Verifying if parameter values are empty. If a parameter has a value, we then check if these values are accurate or fall within acceptable ranges.

In this process, we look for:

Errors related to text such as incorrect use of spaces, case sensitivity, use of forbidden symbols, and incorrect data types. For instance, inputting a letter when a number is expected.

These are the elements we examine and verify.

WHAT we check - standards, regulations

In the third group, we perform checks to ensure the model meets all design requirements, building regulations, and standards. These checks could involve various things.

For instance:

Confirming the model meets minimum dimensions for wheelchair accessibility
Verifying that the building contains the required minimum number of toilets and bathrooms
Checking if the model meets the requirements for the minimum window area in relation to the floor area

These checks give us a general understanding of what the client might expect from our models.

HOW do we check the model?

The next question we need to address is how to check the model. There are several ways to do this.

Firstly, we need to identify the program we will use for this check. There are several viable alternatives. If you’re unsure where to begin, choose the most popular one.

Navisworks and Solibri are two that should suit your needs.

The next task involves understanding how to configure these programs for efficient model checking.

As BIM Coordinators, we often handle the setup of coordination programs to meet project requirements.

WHEN do we check the model?

Another crucial aspect of the coordination process is knowing precisely when we’ll perform a check.

Firstly, we need to identify the project’s milestones. With this information, we can align our activities with the project’s actual progress.

Knowing the milestones helps us determine when disciplinary models should be mature enough for a check.

Without knowledge of these milestones, our coordination plan would be mere guesswork.

Setting milestones, delivery dates, or data drops (however you will call it) allows us to plan our coordination schedule effectively. However, planning such a schedule is not an easy task.

There are several aspects to consider:

We need to determine when the models are mature enough for checking.
We need to identify specific model requirements to check at certain times.

Remember this crucial point – coordinating BIM models without a prior plan can lead to problems.

Coordination - Conclusion

People who want to become a BIM Coordinator need to understand the whole coordination process. Before we perform any kind of check, we analyze BIM Requirements that we received from the client, and we start preparing for the check.

So we need to figure out, WHAT we are checking, HOW we are going to check, and WHEN we will perform such check.

Only having these 3 answers in place, we can create the correct coordination strategy for the project.

#4 - Issue Management

Now let’s move on to the next area of BIM Coordinator work
Once we go through the coordination process, the next area is Issue Management.

As previously mentioned, a BIM Coordinator is responsible for checking BIM models. During this process, we often find issues that could be clashes between model components or problems with model data.

I worked on a construction project where we found literally hundreds of potential issues. The key to successful coordination is not just identifying these issues, but knowing how to prioritize them. It’s almost impossible to go through each one individually.

The primary role of a BIM Coordinator is to filter out issues that may affect the construction work and need to be addressed immediately, while disregarding minor, irrelevant modeling issues.

Static reports

What is also very important is organizing and managing all the issues that we found.

So basically, after the check, the BIM Coordinator sends issues to project members who are responsible for fixing them.
Often, such reports are saved as a static document. It can be an Excel spreadsheet, or an HTML file, or a PDF.

Here is how issue reports may look like as an HTML.

There are still many companies that use just this type of reports saved in static files.

But using such reports is not efficient, and I don’t recommend it to anyone.

During the checking process, I may send several reports per week.

One problem that arises is: How can we ensure that project members are viewing the most up-to-date reports?

Another issue is how consultants will identify problems in their 3D models if they’re using static reports, which are completely detached from the modeling software.

Therefore, a BIM Coordinator should be aware of these challenges and strive to find the best solutions.

Alternative to static reports

I always recommend that BIM Coordinators use the BCF – BIM collaboration format for issue exchange, and tools called Issue Managers. Having an issue manager in place, we don’t have to worry too much about where we will keep our reports.

Issue Management applications like BIMCollab or New Forma Konekt – formerly BIM Track, can help us in this regard and solve most of the mentioned challenges.

They are cloud applications, so all issues are stored in one place. Everyone involved in the coordination process has access to all up-to-date data.
They are integrated with coordination software and modeling software, so there is actually no need to send any issue reports in the form of static files.

My students need to know how to use Issue Managers properly and integrate them with coordinating and modeling programs.

Hence, I know that the student uses the best possible methods of work.

#5 - Communication

And the last but not least aspect of the BIM Coordinators work is communication.

We can have an excellent strategy, we can also correctly set up models.
We may also have good coordination skills and know how to manage issues effectively.

But, if we don’t know how to communicate with our team, the entire coordination process may fail. That’s why communication part is so important.

As BIM Coordinators, our role in projects is to offer support and guidance to all stakeholders involved. We are there to provide a helping hand, making the process smoother for everyone.

One major part of our job is to explain how the requirements from the client will influence the BIM strategy we adopt.

We also have the responsibility of educating others on how to effectively use different programs associated with the project. Furthermore, we are tasked with clearly outlining how the coordination process will function throughout the project.

We also value feedback from others as it helps us improve our process and approach.

Communication is key in all these aspects, and one common way we facilitate this is through organized and effective meetings.

Meetings preparations

Many people see meetings as a waste of time, and often, they’re right. That’s why, as a BIM Coordinator, you need to be ready for every meeting you run.

Having a good agenda and setting clear goals is key. Knowing what you want to achieve in each meeting can make a big difference!

When it comes to having an effective meeting, it’s not just about showing up and diving straight into the agenda. It requires a bit more forethought and preparation. Now, let’s say we’re gearing up for a coordination meeting.

What can really make a difference and bring everyone on the same page is generating some diagrams that represent the issue metrics of the project.

Think about it: these diagrams serve as a visual snapshot of our project’s current standing, and they can really illuminate whether we’re on track or veering off course. But the real magic of these diagrams?

They’re like a spotlight, highlighting the areas that need our attention and improvement.

They can also pinpoint where the project’s bottlenecks are, those pesky areas that are slowing down our progress.

In essence, these diagrams serve as a compass, guiding project stakeholders to understand the project progress better and see what needs tweaking or where extra resources are needed.

So, a bit of time spent on creating these diagrams? Definitely worth it!

Coordination meetings mistake

One important skill a BIM Coordinator needs to develop is the ability to manage and lead meetings effectively. This isn’t a skill that you can pick up overnight. It requires practice, experience, and confidence to truly excel.

The BIM Coordinator is not just a participant in these meetings, but also a leader, guiding the discussions and holding people accountable for their tasks.

Learning to manage meetings well is a process. As with any learning process, you’ll likely make a few mistakes along the way. But don’t worry, that’s normal! It’s all part of the journey.

To help you avoid some common pitfalls, I’ve created a video where I go through some of the typical mistakes made during meetings and give advice on how to address them.

So, remember, becoming a proficient BIM Coordinator involves mastering many different aspects, and managing meetings is a crucial part of that.

Keep practicing, learning from your mistakes, and soon enough, you’ll see improvements in your ability to lead effective and productive meetings.

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Summary

So today we discusses the roles and responsibilities of BIM Coordinator in: Coordination, Issue Management, and Communication areas.

Remember that in Coordination, we aids design teams in building models and ensures their quality. The models are checked against certain standards which are set in the strategy phase. The checks are performed on geometry, non-graphic data, and compliance with design requirements and standards.

When it comes to Issue Management we manage problems that arise from the coordination process. BIM Coordinator has to prioritize major issues that could affect construction and manage them effectively. I recommend that you will use Issue Manager applications to simplify the process.

Last but not least, we talked about communication as a crucial aspect of a BIM Coordinator’s work. Meetings stands in the center part of it. Remember that good communication can significantly improve the coordination process and ultimately lead to a successful project.

The post 5 key areas of BIM Coordinators role – part 2 appeared first on Bim Corner.

5 key areas of BIM Coordinators role – part 1

Ignacy Lozinski — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 08:11:49 +0000

I know that the role of a BIM Coordinator in a design company can be a bit confusing, given how complex and specialized the position is. So, I thought I’d share my thoughts on this, based on my personal journey and professional practice.

I’m proud to say that I’ve been a BIM Coordinator for over a decade now. This has given me a deep understanding of what the job is truly about, and the kind of challenges one might face.

Over the years, I’ve seen all sorts of situations and problems that pop up in the day-to-day of this role.

With all this under my belt, I’ve got a pretty good idea of what the job entails and how one needs to grow to not only be good, but to be a top-notch BIM Coordinator.

So, let’s start at the beginning, to understand what this position is all about and its key responsibilities. Shall we?

Intro

To understand how to become a BIM Coordinator, we should first answer several key questions:

Who is a BIM Coordinator?
What is the role of a BIM Coordinator in a project or organization?
What are the responsibilities of a BIM Coordinator?

Having already provided some answers, we can delve deeper into the fundamentals of a BIM Coordinator’s role.

It’s essential to understand what’s most important in their job and what’s not as crucial. With this knowledge, we can identify the skills needed to become an effective BIM Coordinator.

For this reason, I’ve created a plan that encompasses the various aspects of a BIM Coordinator’s work. The plan includes most responsibilities and tasks that you would encounter in this role.

The plan is organized into five main areas:

Strategy,
Model Setup,
Coordination,
Issue Management,
and Communication.

Each of these areas is a crucial part of a BIM coordinator’s work, so it’s essential to understand them well.

We will examine each of these topics individually, and I will outline the tasks and knowledge necessary for each area.

So, let’s begin with Area 1 – the Strategy.

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Strategy

Goal of BIM project

BIM Coordinators, who work in construction and design, often develop and follow BIM strategies.

In a well-run BIM project, goals are set at the beginning.

These goals outline what the BIM methodology is expected to provide to different people involved, like the client, contractor, or designer.

Such goals might encompass a variety of key performance indicators, such as:

– enhanced efficiency in the project execution,
– the total elimination of clashes on the construction site to ensure a smooth building process,
– improved visualization of the planned construction enabling all stakeholders to fully grasp the intended outcome,
– or more accurate cost estimates, allowing for better budget management.

The process of setting these goals is very important and it serves multiple purposes.

Firstly, it facilitates a deeper understanding of how the BIM model will be utilized throughout the lifespan of the project. Secondly, it provides a clear picture of what the requirements for the model will be, thereby allowing for better planning and resource allocation.

Model Requirements

The requirements for the model concerns three fundamental aspects:

1. The first one refers to the graphical data. This is essentially the geometry of the 3D model. It includes all the visible aspects of the model, including shapes, lines, and points that make up the structure.

This graphical data forms the visual representation of the model, providing the physical dimensions that are crucial in understanding the model’s form and structure.

2. The second aspect is about the non-graphic data. This is information embedded within the model in the form of structured attributes or parameters.

This could include details about the materials used, cost estimations, timelines for construction, and other relevant data.

These pieces of information are not visibly represented in the model but are crucial for decision-making processes and for understanding the model in a broader context of construction and execution.

3. Lastly, the model should follow design requirements. These are rules set by standards, building regulations, and design guidelines to make sure the model is safe, legal, and follows the right design. They give the model its framework.

The requirements for a project can differ greatly depending on its unique characteristics and requirements.

Let’s take an example to illustrate this:

We are working on a project where we have been tasked with constructing a bridge. In this scenario, our client’s requirements may be relatively straightforward – they want us to ensure that the geometry of the models is properly coordinated and that there are no collisions in the model.

This would involve careful planning and construction to make sure the design is structurally sound and will stand up to the rigors of use.

On the other hand, consider a different type of project, such as constructing a building. In this case, the models we create will be used not only during the construction phase, but also for the management of the facility after it has been completed.

For this type of project, our responsibilities go beyond just coordinating the geometry of the models. We also need to ensure that the information contained in the models is accurate and comprehensive, as this data will be crucial for the effective management of the facility in the future.

So, to put it simply, the specific requirements for Building Information Modeling (BIM) can vary widely from one project to another. These BIM requirements help us determine exactly what we need to check for in the models we create, ensuring we meet the unique needs of each project.

BIM Requirmenets and BEP

While it’s important to know what BIM requirements are, it’s equally important to create an action plan to meet those requirements.

This action plan is called a BIM Execution Plan or BEP for short.

The BIM Coordinator is responsible for making sure the project follows the BEP.
To do this, We need to know what the plan should contain and how to implement it.

This plan typically includes information such as:

The programs and data formats to be used during the project.
How these programs and formats will cooperate. To illustrate this, we create data flow diagrams as shown on the slide.
The parameters to be incorporated into the project models. These parameters vary depending on the project and are chosen carefully to meet the needs of the client and the design team.

The BEP should clearly specify which of these parameters will be directly utilized by the client or the design team, offering clarity and direction for all stakeholders.

In addition, the BEP should accurately explain the project’s organizational structure. This includes clear indications of each team member’s roles and responsibilities, ensuring everyone understands their part in the project’s success.

Moreover, the BEP often provides guidelines for the quality check process, which is crucial for BIM Coordinators.

That’s why It’s super important to understand

when you are a BIM Coordinator you need to first understand the BIM Requirements recieived from the client, and then planning how to implement them into the project.

This process requires a deep understanding of both the project’s needs and the tools available, emphasizing the crucial importance of the BEP in a BIM Coordinator’s work.

Model Setup

The next topic is model setup. BIM Coordinators typically don’t focus on creating models themselves.

Indeed, model creation often depends on the project or organization. Typically, various disciplines create their own models. For instance, the architectural team has its model, the structural team has another, the MEP team has its own, and so on.

These models are then delivered to the BIM Coordinator for review.

One of the primary responsibilities of a BIM Coordinator in this process is to assist different disciplines in effectively producing their models.

Project environment - setup

During the initial phase of a project, the BIM Coordinator handles various technical tasks.

Firstly, they create a project environment for the rest of the team. This can involve setting up the appropriate folder structures on the Common Data Environment (CDE) or the project server.

They also manage access to different parts of the project data. It’s important to note that not everyone has access to all data in the project. For instance, some subcontractors won’t have access to sensitive contractual data.

The goal is to keep the project data secure and only accessible to those who need it to perform their work. Fortunately, most Common Data Environment solutions offer such capabilities.

Working with coordinates

Another crucial task we’ll undertake is assisting different disciplines in coordinating their models relative to each other.

Often, disciplines deliver their models to BIM coordinators, only to find that:

The models are positioned far apart.
The models do not align correctly with each other.

As BIM Coordinators, we need to ensure that these models align perfectly.

It’s essential to establish this alignment in the initial stages of the project.

Understanding how to use the correct coordinate system and base points is also vital, ensuring the project is located accurately.

From my experience, I know that many students struggle with this issue, particularly those who use Revit in their work. The topic of coordinate systems in Revit is quite challenging to understand.

This is primarily due to Revit’s various base points, coordinate systems, and linking options, which are not immediately clear.

That’s why I put extra emphasis on this topic, ensuring everyone fully understands how to correctly work with coordinates.

Building templates

Model setup is a crucial aspect in many fields, and it’s instrumental for disciplines to set up their templates in modeling tools effectively.

Templates serve as a blueprint, enabling us to pre-define common project elements, which can range from title blocks and sheets to views and families.

These templates are not just placeholders, but they are designed to streamline and standardize layouts, settings, naming conventions, parameters, and much more.

By doing so, they foster consistency across different projects and among team members, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and is following the same guidelines.

I cannot stress enough the importance of setting up good templates right from the beginning. It is an investment that pays off in the long run. Trust me, by putting in the effort to establish effective templates at the onset, you significantly reduce the likelihood of errors, and minimize the need for rework further down the line.

It’s a simple proactive measure that can save a lot of time, effort, and resources in the long run.

Exporting models to openBIM formats

Another crucial aspect of BIM coordinators’ role is to assist disciplines in delivering quality models for checks.

Disciplines use various tools to create their disciplinary models. For instance, architects work in Archicad, the structural team uses Tekla Structures, and the MEP team operates on Revit.

Typically, they deliver models using the openBIM standard, IFC. For those unfamiliar, IFC is an open format used in the AEC industry to exchange model data between different programs. You can think of it like a PDF among document files.

Here you can read more about IFC format.

These IFC files, delivered by disciplines, are then used in the Federated model to perform checks. However, many things can go wrong when exporting models to IFC files. Disciplines often make numerous mistakes with it.

Let me illustrate with a simple example.

Exporting models to openBIM formats

Let’s assume you’re an architect. You use the IFC schema to deliver your model to a BIM coordinator. On the left, we see the model in Revit.

As you can see, (picture on the left) the model has all objects in place, such as doors, windows, walls, etc. You create an IFC file and send it to the BIM Coordinator.

But there seems to be an issue. When we look at the resulting IFC model (picture on the right) that you delivered, your model doesn’t have doors.

Why is that?

What went wrong?

How can this be fixed?

There could be several reasons why our export files are not as expected:

Firstly, we need to understand how to map Revit families with the IFC model object. It’s possible that the Door category was set to NOT Exported in the mapping table, which is why we can’t see them in the IFC.
Alternatively, the Export to IFC parameter for these object types may have been set to NO.
Another possibility is that we used a 3D view in Revit where doors were not visible.

It’s important to understand the options that the IFC Revit exporter provides. For instance, there’s an option to export only elements visible in the view, which could explain why we can’t see doors in the IFC files.

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Summary

Today, I showed you two out of five areas of a BIM Coordinator’s work.

I presented the tasks a BIM Coordinator faces in these areas, and what is important to them in each of them. Naturally, no two roles are identical. You would be working in a different company, on a unique project with diverse individuals.

Your duties may certainly differ to some extent from those I presented in today’s post. This post is meant to be a bird’s eye view of a BIM Coordinator’s work and to capture its main parts.

I hope I managed to do that. I invite you back in a week for the next part of the post, where I will discuss the next three areas of work.

See you then!

The post 5 key areas of BIM Coordinators role – part 1 appeared first on Bim Corner.

Bim Corner

My reflections on BILT 2024

Sessions

Next-Level Data Visualisation

BIM Integration for Built Asset Operation

How to succeed in building an 8 km subway with 6 stations directly from BIM.

Discussion panel

My presentation and feedback

Data quality

Processes

Technology

Construction site

Networking!

Key take-aways

CDE in practice – what tools to use and when

Table of contents

CDE definition

CDE classification

Design and construction CDE tools

BIM 360

Aconex

Viewpoint4Projects

ProjectWise

Other

Handover and O&M tools

Challenges of using CDEs in practice

Conclusions

Bibliography

Rhino Inside Tekla – Create your own tools for Tekla Structures

Table of Contents

1. The big change for the Tekla Users

2. Grasshopper Tekla Live Link vs. Rhino Inside Tekla

3. Rhino inside Tekla Workshop

4. Direct Manipulation of Grasshopper Component

5. Rhino inside Tekla for non-Grasshopper Users

6. Rhino Inside Tekla Installation Guide

6. Summary of Grasshopper Component

5 reasons why you should start with 2D Drawing Automation

Table of Contents

1. My Story of 2D drawing production

2. Drawing Less Projects are the Future

3. 2D drawing automation in Tekla and Revit

Tekla Drawing Link

Revit Drawing Link

4. Practical examples of 2D Drawing automation

4.1. GA Drawing with Level Marks

4.2. Sandwich Wall Drawing

5. Conclusions about 2D drawing automation

SUPER IFC. What to include in the file?

ifcPropertySets

ifcColourRGB

ifcMaterial

ifcClassification

Type

Summary

First steps to deliver BIM-based construction cost estimation – BIM 5D

Table of Contents

Defining BIM-based construction cost estimation - BIM 5D

Budgeting adopting the CAD methodology

BIM-Based Budgeting Methods – BIM 5D

BIM Budgeting – Option 1: Budgeting based on extracting IFC quantities

BIM Budgeting – Option 2: Budgeting based on extracting quantities from the authorial model

5D BIM Budgeting – Option 3: Dynamic Budgeting

BIM Budgeting – Option 4: Budgeting based on the import of IFC and external 4D BIM

BIM Budgeting – Option 5: Budgeting based on the import of IFC and internal BIM 4D

BIM 5D - Conclusion

What SUPER IFC should have?

Header

Spatial Breakdown Structure

Objects

Attributes

Geometric representation

Summary of part one

>>> PART 2 <<<

Why you have to visit BILT conference?

What is BILT?

How does BILT ensure the highest presentation quality?

75 to 150 minutes presentation

Schedule and preparation long before the event

Rich hand-outs and tips & tricks