PRODUCED IIN AASSOCIATION WWITH Guide 2013.pdf · By Bob Garrett, Marketing Director, Excitech Ltd....

The 2013

CAD UserGuide to BIM

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Icame upon some interesting surveyresults the other day from the EuropeanArchitectural barometer for a research

project initiated by Arch-Vision. It showedhow confident architects were regardingwidespread BIM adoption amongst the keyEuropean countries. Against an estimate of4 years for the UK, France and Spain wereshowing surprising confidence with 2.5 and2.7 years respectively, and whilst Italy andthe Netherlands were a bit more scepticalat 5 and 5.4 years and Germany was totallyin denial at a whopping 7 years!

The largest proportion of BIM devoteescame from France (55%) and The Dutch(42%) who believe that BIM is the future forconstruction and architecture. Germany

and Italy were more sceptical, with 25% ofItalian and 20% of German architectsdisagreeing with the assumption.

The most astonishing fact, though, is thatthey couldn't find enough architects in theUK familiar with BIM to express an opinion!That either points to a lack of penetration ofthe UK construction industry by theEuropean polling team, a failure by theGovernment to get its BIM messageacross, or a genuine concentration in BIMadoption amongst a relatively small cadreof forward-looking companies working onlarge, multidiscipline and Governmentcontracts - where you wouldn't get very farunless you were already deeply immersedin the process.

The tender requests this year by theMinistry of Justice may explain part of theproblem. They won't even consider usingcontractors for some £2+ billion worth ofcontracts unless they can demonstratecapability and commitment to deliverprojects at BIM Level 2. Following theGovernment's lead, expectations frommajor clients climb inexorably, raising thestarting gate price in terms of commitment,retraining, changing working processesand so on in the process. Are we in dangerof developing a two-tier constructionindustry - or were smaller architecturalcompanies the only people with the time topick up the phone to European pollsters? Itseems there’s never been a more crucialtime to raise the UK’s BIM awareness.

INTRODUCTIONBIM Present and BIM Future - By David Chadwick, Editor, CAD User

CONTENTSCHAIN LIBRARYNBS provides for BIM throughout the supply chain with its NationalLibrary of components and new features for the free Revit Plug-in4BIM: TTHE ROLE OF THE INFORMATION MANAGERBy Bob Garrett, Marketing Director, Excitech Ltd.

VIRTUAL CONSTRUCTIONBIMobject places all the components you require for a constructionproject under one roof

REALISING THE BENEFITS OF BIM By David Light, Solutions Executive at Autodesk Consulting -Global Services

BIM IN PRACTICEOlly Thomas, BIM Manager at The Design Buro Architects, explainshow he sees BIM fitting in to traditional design workflows

OPEN BIMCollaborative Design makes a big impression at the NuclearAdvanced Manufacturing Research Centre

ASSET MODELSBentley’s Neville Glanville asks whether BIM is a business enabler -or a red herring?

DERBY WINS IN FINLANDThe power of the data model was used to facilitate the constructionof the winner of the Finnish Tekla BIM Awards in 2012

WORTHING NEW POOLSNemetschek asks the jury of their user contest 'Inspirations inEngineering' to focus on Open BIM and sustainability

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CHAIN LIBRARY

THE CAD USER GUIDE TO BIM - 20134

NBS provides for BIM throughout the supply chain with its National Library of components andnew features for the free Revit Plug-in

The


As Dr Stephen Hamil said, there arevarious steps to utilising BIMthroughout the supply chain. At its

most basic level, he explained, it is a singleorganisation that is benefitting from moreefficient generation of drawings or theimproved coordination of specificationsand drawings. However the real impact, interms of delivering overall projectefficiencies, can be seen when BIM is usedthroughout the supply chain.

The project team should agree their BIMprocess as part of the wider projectexecution plan at the preparation and briefstage of the project. This will agree theprocesses and protocols to be used todevelop the design. It will also detail thecommunication strategy and whatcommon standards are to be used.

In the last 12 months, support materialhas been developed to help the UKconstruction industry, including PAS 1192-2:2013, the CIC BIM Protocol and the RIBA

Plan of Work 2013.

Further benefits and efficiencies can alsobe generated when maintained libraryinformation is used from the start of aproject. This could be from a nationalmaster library, such as the NBS NationalBIM Library, or from office masters, whichmay be extracted suites of componentsfrom the National Library.

For this to be fully utilised by the wholeproject team, it could be maintained by alarge client, a multi-disciplinaryconsultancy or a large contractor. Thedesign team would then have standardBIM objects and correspondingspecification clauses that they can usewhen developing the design through to theconstruction stage.

In addition to the design team, there isalso the manufacturer supply chain. Manylarge clients and contractors havemanufacturers that they use regularly on

projects so manufacturers can help theirclients by providing information digitally inthe form of BIM objects and supportinginformation.

This digital information, as part of a librarytoolkit, can provide real support to thedesign team, as the constraints they areworking within are made clear from thestart. It can then make life easier for notonly the construction team but also thefuture building operator, as digitalinformation held within the model can beutilised through construction, handoverand during the building'

NBS PPLUG-IIN FFOR RREVITTo encourage the use of the NBS NationalLibrary in specific software applications,NBS has delivered a raft of new featureswith the release of the latest version of its'NBS for Autodesk Revit plug-in.

One of a range of NBS Plug-ins, theAutodesk Revit plug-in is free tool that has

One of the features at this year's BIM Show Live was a talk by Dr Stephen Hamil, NBS Director of Design and Innovation, whodiscussed how NBS Create and NBS the National BIM Library can be used to enable information flow throughout the entireBIM process, thus maximising the benefits of BIM. He also demonstrated some of the features of the NBS Plug-in for Revit,including, of course, Autodesk Revit 2014 compatibility, which is now available from NBS free of charge. The most salientpoints of Dr Hamil's talk are presented below, followed by a fuller description of new features within NBS' Revit plug-in.

NBS1.qxd 23/10/2013 11:24 Page 1

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been developed by NBS through theAutodesk Developers Network to makethe task of putting together a coordinatedset of drawings and specification thatmuch easier.

The plug-in works by integratingspecification and CAD models, allowingdirect linkage between NBS and Revit atan object-to-object level. In doing so, ithas tackled risk issues around informationcurrency, associated with the traditionalimport and export approach and keynotefunctionality, meaning that changes in thespecification do not result in informationbecoming out of date.

With the plug-in, objects within the Revitmodel are quickly associated with thecorresponding systems and products inthe specification, and the user can simplychoose to verify all annotations, inadvance of issuing any informationgenerated from the coordinated models.

As a result, coordination issues betweenthe drawings and specification areidentified, and can be fixed by a projectteam confident in the knowledge that theyare working from robust documentationheld within the Building Information Model.

The newly released NBS plug-in for Revit2.0 is compatible with Revit 2014, 2013and 2012 and aims to bring the CADmodels even closer together with the NBS

specification model, technical guidanceand NBS National BIM Library objects.The plug-in works with specificationdocuments produced using NBS Create,NBS Building, NBS Landscape, NBSScheduler and NBS Domestic.

All objects and components within theNational BIM Library, along with theircontents, are now available within Revit,allowing users to drag and dropcomponent objects straight from theNational BIM Library cloud into Revitmodels. Layered objects can be openeddirectly from the panel and then copiedand pasted directly into the model with theentire search and filter functionalityavailable both within the main website,and via the plug-in.

NBS subscribers can also benefit fromdirect access to the NBS guidance withinthe panel, the equivalent of 10,000 A4pages of maintained, expert content. Asthe user selects objects in the model, ifthe panel is open, then the equivalent"general guidance" page in the NBSguidance displays. The "generalguidance" shows information such asdesign principles, performance, healthand safety, environmental and contractualissues.

In version 2.0 of the plug-in, users canautomatically create an outlinespecification from the design model. This

is synchronised with the model and anyobjects that may not have been added arehighlighted. Once a specification iscoordinated with the model, it is possibleto continue to manage the links to thatspecification. A report on the associatedobjects may also now be generated, aseach associated object is clickable,making it possible to quickly locate theinstances of this in the model

Other improvements include theassociation report, which now indicateswhat objects are not associated to aspecification clause, which specificationclauses may have been renamed andwhich objects have no classification. Theuser is guided through the process offixing these with QA information, such aswhat user renamed an item and when.

In this latest upgrade to the NBS forAutodesk Revit plug-in, users also gain aninsight into some of the groundbreakingwork NBS is undertaking with NorthumbriaUniversity-based BIM Academy on writinga set of components that write to a data-rich IFC. The results have been so goodthat this new IFC export, which allowsusers to combine property sets from thelinked specification clauses with theobjects in the model, has been releasedas 'Beta functionality' in the toolbar.

For mmore iinformation oon tthis ffree ttool, vvisitwww.thenbs.com/products/nbsplugins


The


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Because the better the insight, the better the outcome.

Autodesk is a registered trademark or trademark of Autodesk, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product and services offerings and specifications and pricing at any time without notice and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document. ©2012 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved.

Today’s projects are ambitious and complex. Which is why Autodesk® BIM helps to remove

the uncertainties that can lead to mistakes, waste and delays. Whether you’re designing

buildings, plants or roads, Autodesk’s intelligent 3D tools help to provide you with the

information you need to make better decisions, remove conflicts and finish projects faster.

Autodesk BIM. Removing the barriers to better business.

autodesk.co.uk/bim

Image courtesy of CCDI Group.

Autodesk_BIMShow_guide.indd 1 27/04/2012 16:21:56

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The CIC documents (as well as theGovernment BIM Task Group website) describe a role which I won’t

repeat in full, but which could quiteadequately be summarised as follows: i) To enable production of BIM at definedstagesii) To support the production of datadeliverablesiii) Initially appointed by the "Employer"iv) Has no design or design reviewresponsibilitiesv) Is likely to be performed by either theDesign Lead or Project Lead but canchange as a project progresses.

You can, of course, download a fuller

description from the CIC web site.

How this role is actually implementedand how it works in practice, however,remains to be seen. The formalisationand standardisation of BIM processesacross the industry remains in its infancy,with many recently published documentsfrom BIM experts owing much of thecontent to the authors experiences withintheir own working environment. Fewprojects have seen the whole BIMprocess from design and constructioninto management of the facility and theknowledge of such a role is usuallyspecific to projects rather than beingbroad and mutually agreed.

THE CCHALLENGES FFOR TTHEINFORMATION MMANAGERThis role, notwithstanding the clear CICdescription, has a number of challengesfor it to be successful, and I recognise Iam going to be a bit contentious!

From the 'Employer's' perspective(assuming this is a propertyowner/developer etc.), appointing anInformation Manager may be a challengeas they may not have an understanding ofthe role from a design and constructionperspective. They may simply focus onwhat their needs are from the project.From the design and constructionperspective, few have an understanding of

Information is central to Building Information Modeling (BIM), and not just because it is the middle word! Indeed, many say it isthe only important word in the acronym: "building" can be misleading because it implies BIM is only relevant to buildings, andmodelling can be misleading as it suggests BIM is only about the model or that everything should be stored in a model.

So if information is so central, then how should it be managed? Well a short answer comes from the CIC (Construction IndustryCouncil) BIM Protocol (2013), where the importance of deliverables in the form of data drops is seen as key; so requiring the roleof "Information Manager".

BIM: THE ROLE OF THE INFORMATION MANAGER


By Bob Garrett, Marketing Director, Excitech Ltd.

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Facilities Management requirements or afull understanding of the Owner's long termgoals, and how data from the design andconstruction process can be applied.

From our experience, few projects startwith adequate, or indeed any, Employer'sInformation Requirements (as alsorequired by the CIC BIM Protocol etc.) andthey simply may not know what is possibleor what to ask for to benefit the project andstakeholders and provide a return on theirinvestment. Excitech's own AEC TechnicalForum this summer highlighted this issueas major design and constructioncompanies highlighted the fact that manyclients remain ignorant of BIM, and somedon't even appear to have any desire toknow. The same is also true further downthe supply chain.

If, as expected, the role is given initially tothe Design Lead and subsequently to theConstruction Lead then what are the risksthat this change will result in a discontinuityof purpose and extra work or risk?Furthermore, are these organisations reallybest placed to understand and assist theinterpretation of an Employer's (i.e. theproperty owner's) needs and processes inFacility and Asset Management?

So there is an expectation that theInformation Manager has knowledge ofAsset and Facilities Management needs,systems and data structures. There is alsothe expectation of knowledge of bothdesign and contractor processes andsystems. Yet contractors continue to haveto make significant changes to designmodels before they can be used. Likewise,there is uncertainty in how to deliver as-built information and verify the quality ofthis for use in FM. So even between designand construction there is clearly anunderstanding gap. The role of InformationManager is expected to bridge these threeareas of design, construction andmanagement.

This role can also be assumed to be quitetechnical; needing not just design,construction and Facilities Management

knowledge but also information technologyknowledge, so as to be able to work withspecialists in databases, documentmanagement, data collaboration,communications, security etc.

The final challenge actually relates to thenumber of organisations this role will bedealing with. While the numbers being'managed' may appear to be just ahandful, their subcontractors will multiplythat number significantly. Each will havetheir own ways of working and their ownpreferences for information management;and each will believe their own to be thebest that others should conform to.

With the range of expertise, experienceand diplomacy needed it is little wonderthat the expectation is that the InformationManager is not a single person but agroup within a single organisation. The CICexpectation is that the role forms part of anappointment with a design consultant orconstruction company. However, ashighlighted above, will this bring in the rightbreadth of skills or simply allow oneorganisation to impose its processes onthe rest - right or wrong? See, I said I'd becontentious!

THE RROLE OOF TTHE EEMPLOYERFor the Information Manager to succeed,we at Excitech believe the role of the

Employer needs further consideration. TheEmployer needs a greater understandingof how a construction project is undertakenand what BIM offers, so they can better setout their "Employer's InformationRequirements."

As is clear from the GovernmentConstruction Strategy there is a clear needfor the Client/Owner/Developer etc. toactually be in the driving seat. When this isachieved then the Information Manager'sremit will be clearer, such that the designand construction stages can reflect theClient's needs. This argument is supportedby a recent report published by the BritishCouncil of Offices, which concludes that"occupiers are missing out on the benefitsof BIM due to low awareness and lowlevels of integrated cross-disciplinaryworking." It says that the constructionindustry is making good use of BIM whileothers are missing out.

CONCLUSIONThe role of the Information Manager is keyand the size of the challenge should not beunderestimated. Without this key role thereis more room for confusion,miscommunication and hence risk. It isalso the case that as a new role (for theindustry generally) and as a role which ismanaging a new area there is need for asignificant understanding of what newprocesses are needed and how best tointroduce them. If the role is allocated andmanaged well then everyone in the projectstands to gain significantly, both technicallyand commercially.

In the closing review meeting with a clienton a project which Excitech had beenmanaging we asked why Excitech hadbeen appointed and were told "in case weneeded someone to blame!" We mustensure that the Information Manager role isclear and practical. It must satisfy theinformation requirements of the client, theproject and all the project participantsthroughout the project stages byfacilitating and managing but withouttaking on accountability beyond the remit.www.excitech.co.uk

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VIRTUAL CONSTRUCTION


BIMobject places all the components you require for a construction project under one roof

The


If you are a component manufacturer forthe construction industry, makinganything from doors and windows to

sinks and bidets, it's pretty obvious that thedays of paper-based documentation arenumbered. Pretty catalogues showing yourwares might still be an essential item forconsumer and trade shows, but if youreally want designers and buyers, likearchitects and contractors, to latch ontoand specify your wares, you need to makeit as easy as possible for them to downloadeverything they need to know about yourproduct and place it directly into theirbuilding models.

Putting your products online might be theway to go, but it comes with a different setof issues. Aside from your productdesigners, you need to employ a couple ofweb savvy guys who can prepare thevirtual representation (an object) for eachproduct component, and its variants foruse on your online catalogue, ensuring thatthey are constructible and in the rightformat for use in any one of half a dozendifferent software applications - and whocan keep up to date with developments ineach application and what that might meanfor your particular products. The best wayto upset potential customers is for them todownload an object of your product - andthen find out that it can't be used. At theother extreme, it's particularly gallingdownloading objects that come with toomuch information - lots of irrelevant facets

and faces - creating a heavyweight model.Besides that, they would need to ensurethat your web page and its contents are atthe forefront of any architect or contractor'ssearch engine, so that they choose yourproduct instead of a competitor's.

The alternative is pretty straightforward -a cloud-based portal that stores manythousands of product components in onelocation, hosted by a company thathandles all of the creation and publicationof components, keeps them up to date,ensures they are compatible with the latestversions of everybody's software,optimises Google searches, and providesa simple to use search engine within theportal for users.

You might not like all the competition onsuch a site, but users are going to searchthe web anyway, and it makes sense toshow your wares on a well-maintained sitethat filters users directly to your products ifyou have what they want. In addition to thepublic portal, BIMobject also offers privateportals which, for example, enable amanufacturer to provide additionalinformation to a selected audience suchas its distribution channel, or forcontractors to restrict their buyers tospecific product ranges.

BIMOBJECTThere are other benefits of using such aportal. The developers of BIMobject are

currently hosting products for over 180manufacturers and counting, and have theclout to provide software developers withapps that they can host on theirapplications - Revit, AutoCAD, ArchiCADand SketchUp - that provide direct links tothe BIMobject portal.

BIMobject also provides BIMmail. When amanufacturer signs up to BIMobject, itcloses a communication loop and they cangain new insights into who their customersreally are. Every time an object isdownloaded by an architect, designer orcontractor, the information, including thecustomer's details, are available to them,enabling them to contact the customer, tosee if any further help is required. Thecustomer can also initiate the email,perhaps to clarify specification details.

Three problems are eradicated here; thecustomer can be sure that the componentsthey are searching for are completely up todate, as any changes to an alreadydownloaded object can trigger anautomatic alert. BIMobject keeps a recordof every object going through their portal,and customers with older componentsmaintain access to, and can reference, theoriginal components, which are nothowever available for general viewing anddownload. Finally, as communication is viaBIMmail the customer can shield theirusual email identity and so avoid becominga target on a marketing database.

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With this information available,it's very easy for BIMobject toprovide a host of analyticalinformation - how many peopleare looking for such objects, whois visiting their site, and what arethey looking for? It also providesinformation on target softwareapplications, what products arepopular in different parts of theworld? Which products areselling through competitors andnot yourself?

And that other bugbear of webdevelopers - getting products tothe head of search engines - isalso taken care of! There arecompanies out there earning a decent livingproviding this sort of service to ordinaryweb hosts, but this is all part of the remit ofBIMobject, which places new objects at thetop of Google searches, social websites,LinkedIn and other useful sites.

BIMobject doesn't precludemanufacturers from displaying their objectson their own website, rather than replicatingthe components, and it provides iFramefunctionality, allowing these components tobe referenced from the BIMobject portal.Another alternative is to put components ofauthorised suppliers on a private projectcloud, for which you will have to pay extraof course, and these private portals areaccessible through icons within several BIMauthoring tools. An example of this wouldbe a Builders Merchant site, whicharchitects could access, build up a quotefor a particular job from the portal'scomponents, and go direct to the Merchantfor a quote.

HOW IIT WWORKSThe BIMobject team do all the work. Tocome up with a plan and a price - based ona fee for creating objects and an annual'hosting' fee - a 'Proof of concept' has to besorted out, where a few products are takenas a representative sample, allowingBIMobject to assess the scale of the overalltask by building intelligent prototypes of theobjects - looking at how complex the

components are, whether they are uniqueor part of a system - i.e., cladding whichhas similar fixings and materials, but comesin various sizes, colours, opening devicesand so on.

It is not just the graphical representationthat is looked at though, as componentshave to be constructible, and to assist theinstaller fixing points have to be correctlyestablished, so that panel joiners knowwhere, for instance, to fit a noggin to takethe hinges of a particular door.

To sell the component, the modellers atBIMobject should also know what its keyselling points are. BIM requirements comeinto play as well, with both architects andcontractors wanting to access acomponent's COBie information, with allrelevant parameters included with thedownloaded object. To ensure that, inparticular, the geometric aspects of theobject perform correctly in a BIM model,the object needs to be in native format -hence the need to keep updated withsoftware vendors. IFC format data isavailable if required though.

ACCESSING IINDIVIDUALCOMPONENTSSearches through the object library can befiltered to the nth degree; the only limit isthe limit of information held about aparticular object. Once found, a click would

enable it to be loaded into themodel. Objects are provided withdifferent levels of detail to cater fordifferent documentationrequirements.

BIMobject can also handlecomposite components as well assingle objects - walls, for instance,that have cladding, insulation,laths and plaster as well as theprimary brick courses. Thesoftware doesn't just generatecomponents but providesintelligence as well, to make it aseasy as possible for users toincorporate into designs - i.e.optimised flooring, fitting sizes to

floor area, cutting down on regular boardsizes and cutting down on waste.

Having a detailed knowledge of softwarevendors' applications is paramount.Specifying a panellised wall in Revit,showing all components, fit, colour and theoverlapping of panels, is hard to do.BIMobject approaches it from a differentangle, and has created a tool for Revit thatnot only allows the composite componentto be placed, but can quantify andconfigure each panel separately. Havingbeen provided merely with the net surfacearea, the tool automatically detectsstructural openings and configures panels,studs and fixing points.

As a final touch, BIMobject typicallyincludes helpful information on objects asnavigable 3D objects or movies - ideal forshowing how best to use the object in aBIM model, or indeed how the componentneeds to be installed.

BIMobject is not just a very efficientcomponent library, but adds a deal of'virtual construction' to any application,filling in the gaps in blind spots and givingarchitects, designers and contractors whatthey want, quickly and easily. The benefitsto manufacturers are many. Don't try tosave money by doing the job yourself -bring in the experts!www.bimobject.com

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Building Information Modeling(BIM) is an intelligent modelbased design process that adds

value across the entire lifecycle ofbuilding and infrastructure projects. Therapid emergence of BIM is changing theway architecture, engineering andconstruction (AEC) project teams worktogether to solve complex designchallenges and build better buildingssmarter, faster and at lower cost.

REALISING TTHE BBENEFITS OOF BBIMSome people mistakenly think of BIM asjust a new variety of software. BIM isactually a process that relies oninformation-rich models to help ownersand AEC service providers to moreefficiently plan, design, construct, andmanage building and infrastructureprojects. The reliance on digital designmodels has been a common practice in

the manufacturing industry for decades.Project teams at companies such asBoeing and Toyota have placed digitalmodels at the core of their collaborative,concurrent engineering processes foryears, using them to support the entireproject lifecycle from design anddocumentation to manufacturing andfield support.

BIM helps AEC service providers applythe same approach to building andinfrastructure projects. Unlike CAD,which uses software tools to generatedigital 2D and/or 3D drawings, BIMfacilitates a new way of working:creating designs with intelligent objects.Regardless of how many times thedesign changes or who changes it thedata remains consistent, coordinated,and more accurate across allstakeholders. Cross-functional project

teams in the building and infrastructureindustries use these model-baseddesigns as the basis for new, moreefficient collaborative workflows thatgive all stakeholders a clearer vision ofthe project and increase their ability tomake more informed decisions faster.

Models created using software for BIMare intelligent because of therelationships and information that arebuilt into the model. Components withinthe model know how to act and interactwith one another. A room, for example,is more than an abstract concept. It is aunique space contained by otherbuilding components (such as walls,floors, and ceilings) that define theroom's boundary. With BIM, the model isactually a complex database and theroom is a database element thatcontains both geometric information

REALISING THE BENEFITS OF BIM


By David Light, Solutions Executive at Autodesk Consulting - Global Services

The


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and non-graphic data. Drawings, views,schedules, and so on are live views ofthe underlying building database. Ifdesigners change a model element, theBIM software automatically coordinatesthe change in all views that display thatelement including 2D views, such aselevations or floor plans, andinformational views, such as schedulesbecause they are all views of the sameunderlying information.

BIM AAND YYOUR BBUSINESSBIM changes the way companies workboth internally and externally. Projectshave become more and more complex,requiring firms to manage and shareimmense amounts of data acrossdiverse and distributed teams. Byenabling greater insight into the projectat any point in its lifecycle, BIM helpsAEC service providers to improveaccuracy, efficiency, and productivity,resulting in time and cost savings. Thesignificant value-added benefits thatBIM-ready firms can provide include:faster project approvals; morepredictable outcomes; sustainabledesign and analysis services; andimproved collaboration and informationsharing for integrated project deliverystrategies.

Even more powerful than theproductivity gains is the potential thatBIM offers to help enable AECprofessionals and owners design,visualise, simulate, and analyse the keyphysical and functional characteristicsof a project digitally - before they buildit. BIM changes the design process,increasing the level of effort during earlydesign, but speeding up your back-endproduction processes and -moreimportantly - resulting in a higher-qualityoutcome with fewer requests forinformation and construction changeorders. By using a holistic designapproach, BIM helps designersinvestigate how an entire buildingcomes together, and it helps reduce theamount of design changes duringconstruction.

BIM is a strategic initiative thatrequires top-down executive support tosucceed. It changes the way companieswork. Externally, it enables companiesto engage in innovative new projectdelivery methods; provide moreaffordable, more efficient sustainabledesign and analysis services; and offera range of new services. Internally, thetransition to BIM may result in broadorganisational changes based on newand/or different staffing needs.

Autodesk is a leader in 3D design,engineering and entertainment softwareand we have Autodesk BIM softwarethat includes a comprehensive portfolioof solutions for design, visualisation,simulation and collaboration. Thesoftware helps in translating theinformation in the intelligent model tomake informed decisions and breakdown the barriers to better business.

AUTODESK BBIM 3360COLLABORATION && DDATAMANAGEMENT FFOR AAECThe rapid emergence of BIM ischanging the way architecture,engineering and construction projectteams work together to solve complexdesign challenges and build buildingssmarter, faster and at lower cost.Autodesk's comprehensive portfolio ofvirtual design and construction softwaresupports BIM processes. Weunderstand the positive impact of BIMand have the right desktop solutions tokeep construction professionals on theforefront of this transformation.

Autodesk BIM 360 integrates bothwell-established technologies and newcapabilities to help deliver collaborationand data management-across theproject, across the team, and acrossthe enterprise. It allows users to:

Take control of building projects rightfrom the initial phases and effectivelycommunicate design intentCollaborate with design teams, andevaluate constructability beforeconstruction begins

Share data across all projectstakeholders to more quicklyunderstand and communicate means, methods, and materials, andhow they come together to realise aproject's designReduce construction risks usingplanning tools that enable you tobetter manage project timeline,scope and cost and deliver projectsmore predictably.

Autodesk BIM 360 is the vision forextending collaboration and datamanagement in the AEC industry. Byproviding project teams with acomplete, accurate, digital view of theirproject, with access to informationacross the project lifecycle fromwherever they need it: the office, theweb, or the field, Autodesk BIM 360delivers three key benefits: makedecisions that improve project qualityand outcomes; get more insight andpredictability that help enable timelyand profitable delivery; improveoperational reliability and efficiency. These benefits are additionallyenhanced by the advantage ofaccessing the data anytime, anywhereand through multiple interfacesincluding mobile devices.

CONCLUSIONThe change occurring in the globaleconomy has presented architects,engineers, and contractors with awindow of opportunity to retool theirbusinesses and adopt new tools andworkflows. Autodesk has broad, crossindustry experience and technology tomeet these new challenges, and theAEC know-how to do it successfully.

We believe technology solution suchas Autodesk BIM 360 can help designhigher quality building and infrastructureprojects at a lower cost, thereby helpingcompanies in the AEC industrydifferentiate themselves in themarketplace and stay competitive inchallenging times.www.autodesk.com

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Olly Thomas is the BIM Manager forThe Design Buro Architects, anSME and independent firm of

architects specialising in creating wellbeingenvironments for health and social carefacilities. Their philosophy is that theenvironment plays a huge part in thehealing process, and the company workswith its clients to maximise the designopportunities available to them.

Olly is on the steering group ofBIM4SMEs and writes for BIMCrunch.com.He has also been invited to speak atseveral forthcoming BIM events. Here Ollygives us his thoughts on the current stateof BIM, and his company's approach to theworkflow process that is currently movingthe construction industry.

THE DDESIGN BBUROIt was only a few years ago, in 2011, thatwe took our first steps in BIM, havingpreviously used VectorworksFundamentals software in traditionalarchitectural mode. After attending a threeday Vectorworks training course, however,the company embarked on a year-longexploration of the advantages of BIM. Thattimetable evaporated, though, as BIM wasbrought to the forefront of the company'sagenda within three months, to be used ona live Part-level 2 BIM project inconjunction with a major UK contractor.

The company is now steaming aheadwith BIM, assisted by a multi-talented and

enthusiastic team, many of whom havebeen with the company throughout therecent transition to BIM.

This BIM flagship project, the recentlyhanded over Glan Clwyd Hospital newbuild Pathology scheme in Wales, providedus with the opportunity to work in thecollaborative manner required by the client.The project necessitated free exchange ofinformation between consultants during theconcept, design and construction phasesof the project, with BIM also being used byspecialist sub-contractors, helping them toprovide appropriate design solutions andeven digital fabrication for some elementsof the project.

Using Vectorworks Architect we providedBIM information in IFC format via thebuildingSMART accredited Model ViewDefinition CV 2.0 to produce files that couldexchange both 3D graphical geometry anddata embedded information between eachmember of the team. The practice is astrong supporter of the Open BIMphilosophy, believing that informationexchange needs to be platform agnostic,and available to all. The project also useda common data environment (CDE), co-ordinated using Autodesk Navisworks bythe contractor team, and Solibri ModelChecker internally to validate outputs.

BIM allowed the contractors to accessquantity take-off information and also gavethem 4D (programme) sequencing

allowing them to schedule the constructionprogramme more efficiently.

The ultimate end client was involved inthe BIM process as well, where they wereable to suggest ideas, and be shown howthe project is developing, providing abetter understanding of the building as itmoved from design through toconstruction.

LESSONS LLEARNEDI believe one of the biggest businesslessons we have learned is not to overreactto BIM. BIM is a fast moving topic and ischanging on a daily basis. Besides thehuge amount of information that you couldcollect about a model - and the mass ofinformation being circulated about thetopic - it is important to know which of thatis important to you and your project.

Collaboration is critically important aswell. Besides seeing what others are doingit is also important that they see what youare doing. Traditionally people are veryguarded in the construction industry, buttransparency, surprisingly, also breedstransparency. Don't work in a silo either, asengaging in the wider BIM community willprove invaluable to development of BIMwithin your own practice

Validation is also important, whethermanual or automatic, hence our use ofSolibri Model Checker to ensure ourinformation is fit for purpose.

BIM IN PRACTICE


Olly Thomas, BIM Manager at The Design Buro Architects, explains how he sees BIM fitting in totraditional design workflows, using a recent project as an example

The


Computers Unlimited (2).qxd 11/10/2013 11:36 Page 1

The



Initially the main driver for BIM adoptionwas the fear of being pushed out of themarket, but in time those reasons have,perhaps, changed. The benefits that theBIM process can provide to a practicecannot be overestimated. Benefits won'taccrue immediately, though. A realmindset change is important and anappreciation that the role of anarchitectural practice in 2013 is changing.

THE CCURRENT DDESIGN BURO AAPPROACHAfter identifying our practice BIMchampion, we realised very quickly weneeded a specific BIM Manager to drivethe BIM agenda forwards to implementBIM within the practice and on a project-by-project basis. The BIM Manager is alsoresponsible for providing training to staff toensure that they can deliver BIM Level 2maturity projects either as a single project,collaboratively or as part of a client'srequirement as we move towards 2016.

To ensure the quality BIM informationprovided to the CDE, detailed protocoldocuments and procedures have beenput in place to ensure that, throughout,anyone producing or using BIMinformation in any format can do so in aconsistent way. To assist, a dedicatedDocument Controller is employedalongside the BIM Manager.

Training comprises strategic 'steps toBIM' carried out by the practice BIMmanager and other BIM champions, withthe addition of BIM Drop-in Sessions andone to one project training. A 'just-in-time'project strategy is also in place to provide

rapid up-skilling of the team for projectspecific deployment as and whenrequired. We are also currently focusingour efforts on understanding andstreamlining our in-house workflows toattain maximum efficiency without stiflingcreativity and design.

The practice has aligned itself with thePAS 1192-2:2013 (specification forinformation management for thecapital/delivery phase of constructionprojects using BIM), CIC BIM Protocol andDigital Plan of Works to ensure the mostup-to-date and forward thinking methodsof collaboration are required.

As the practice works on both small andlarge projects we need our BIM technologysolution to be an adaptive tool capable ofsupporting flexible workflows. Whether atconcept, developed or technical design,regardless of project size, we are now ableto provide more valuable information earlyto the design team and client alike. With alittle foresight, the reusability of informationproduced in a BIM environment can behuge; increasing productivity anddramatically reducing rework.

GOING FFORWARDThe Design Buro has put in place anumber of policies, systems andprocedures in order to ensure the practiceachieves 'Level 2 BIM' maturity as definedin the Government's BIM strategy, and weare driving forward our BIMimplementation with a practice target ofJanuary 2014, aiming to use BIMprinciples and processes on all projects inthe office, regardless of whether it is a

client requirement or not.

We are also about to embark on a seriesof IFC interoperability exercises/tests inVectorworks through the import and exportof IFC data in conjunction with like-mindedarchitects and engineers, using differingsoftware platforms. We hope that thistesting will not only enhance our practiceknowledge of interoperability but also aidVectorworks and the industry as a whole.

Further to this, we are exploring andunderstanding how we can currentlyprovide an Open BIM solution to ourcurrent client base and existing CAFMsystems using both IFC and nativeVectorworks outputs and deliverables.

At Design Buro we are extremely excitedabout the technology that is emerging todeliver buildings, and we are confident thatthis technology will allow us to designbetter buildings for our clients. We arelooking to further develop COBieimplementation into our workflows inconjunction with Vectorworks in order toprovide a coherent deliverable from IFC toour clients. And, finally, we are activelydisseminating the message of BIM to ourexisting client base to ensure that they arepositively aware of the implications,benefits and outputs of BIM for them asbuilding owners and operators.

Being architects gives us the opportunityto create fantastic environments, but weunderstand that, ultimately, a building is afacilitator to a client’s business and withthis, we see the 'added value' that not onlythe Design Buro, but also BIM, can offer.

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Environmental concerns haveestablished that the only viablesolution to replace the country's

aging Magnox reactors - and the onlyeffective means of keeping the lightsburning from the 2020s on - are a newgeneration of Nuclear Power Stations,using the most up-to-date nucleartechnology. However, once the site ofsuch a facility has been chosen, asignificant proportion of the timeavailable until it has to come online isspent on further research andconsultations - in-depth site surveys,issuing tender documents toprospective construction partners,creating infrastructure links forconstruction traffic and workers andother construction processes. Inaddition, significant time and effort also has to be devoted to listening to, acting

upon, and sometimes having toovercome local community recommendations and objections.

Understandably, decisions aredelayed, additional consultations arerequested and costs re-evaluated - andthe time left to actually build the powerstation and install the electricitygenerating equipment is shorter thanthe contractors would ideally like.Fortunately, manufacturing skills in thenuclear industry are being honed andthe Nuclear Advanced ManufacturingResearch Centre (NAMRC), has beenconstructed on the AdvancedManufacturing Park, Rotherham.

Following on from the success ofearlier research centres constructed onthe site, this sophisticated facility will

front research for both the UK andGlobal nuclear industries. Designed byBond Bryan Architects in Sheffield, theNAMRC combines both large scaleworkshop areas with heavy liftingcranes, smaller research laboratoriesand state-of-the-art officeaccommodation.

To maximise the potential of theworkshop area, the scheme compriseda universal structural slab, with a 50 toncrane capacity and a 10m hook height.The building also provides a technicalworking environment, with temperaturecontrol of 20 degrees C (+ or - 2degrees C), supported by a daylightfactor of 6.5% across the workshopand 4.4% in the offices.

Besides hosting ample space for the

OPEN BIM


Collaborative Design makes a big impression at the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre

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17

ArchiCAD 17 provides a one-of-a-kind BIM-based documentation workflow. It simplifies the modeling and documentation of buildings even when the model contains a high level of detail. ArchiCAD’s end-to-end BIM workflow allows the model to stay live until the very end of the project.

For further information on ArchiCAD 17 contact Graphisoft at www.graphisoft.com or call 01895 876222

Copyright © Graphisoft UK Ltd. All rights reserved world-wide. All other company and product names may be tradenames or trademarks of their respective owners.Image: Multifunctional dwelling complex on Mosfilmovskaya street, Moscow, Russia. Sergey Skuratov Architects www.skuratov-arch.ru Photo © Ilya Ivanov

construction of physical prototypes, theResearch Centre also has a virtualreality suite, the 'CAVE', which providestwo real-time 3D virtual environments.These are interactive zones wherephysicists and nuclear designengineers can interact with 3D models,assisted by multiple co-ordinatedprojectors, using the latest interactive3D visual technology.

The Research Centre is also designedto achieve an 'outstanding' BREEAMaccreditation of 91%, using renewableresources for its construction and forcarbon neutrality. A separate planning application was submitted andapproved for a 100 metre, 1MW windturbine for local power generation.

Bond Bryan Architects worked withBuro Happold, Structural Engineers, onthe project. As is common with suchmulti-disciplinary collaborations, one ofthe first requirements was to work outthe process and protocols for thesharing of BIM data. Bond BryanArchitects used Graphisoft ArchiCAD forthe NAMRC design, and BuroHappold's structural engineers usedAutodesk Revit Structures for the designand analysis of the building'sfoundations, floors and steel frame.

Rob Jackson, Bond Bryan's BIMManager explained the process. "TheNAMRC Building Information Model wasshared with Buro Happold as an IFC filewhich they opened in Revit Structures.IFC is an ISO standard used across theworld for the creation and exchange of

data between different BIM softwares."IFC (Industry Foundation Class) areobject based files, containing softwareindependent building modelinformation, designed to facilitate thesharing of model data across theconstruction industry - the most basicrequirement for successful collaborativeBIM. To validate that only the requireddata was being exchanged, and thatthis was correctly structured, eitherSolibri Model Viewer (SMV) or TeklaBIMsight - widely used free IFC/BIMviewers - were used.

The columns, beams and other mainstructural details were exported, withoutany connection details, from the RevitStructures model. This optimised IFCfile was then downloaded by BondBryan and imported and opened inArchiCAD.

Jackson explains further, "IFC filesallow different users to share only thatinformation they need for their ownpurposes. There are also different waysof using model information. Two floors,for instance, that might be shownseparately in the structural model couldbe shown as one floor in thearchitectural model, or columns couldextend over multiple floors. Theimported IFC file is used to re-order the model."

Jackson also emphasises theimportance of protocols to successfulcollaborative BIM. He comments, "Withthe increased complexity of projects,where multiple construction disciplines

use applications from different softwarevendors, it is imperative that moreconsistent standards of design andconstruction are adhered to. At BondBryan we adopted standards set out inBS1192:2007 and Uniclassclassification systems for structuring thedata and are firm believers in an OpenBIM approach."

With regard to the use of the IFC fileformat for exchanging data, Jacksonaffirmed his company's commitment tothe standard, but was realistic about itscurrent effectiveness. "IFC is the best way to share data between consultants,but it does have some minor issues thatneed to be addressed. The only way toresolve these, however, is to embracethe standard and work with others toimprove it."

Bond Bryan Architects has seensignificant benefits from thecollaborative processes used in the design of the NAMRC. The architecturaldesign was prepared as an ArchiCADBIM model and the structural modelwas developed in Revit Structures byBuro Happold. Sharing models, via IFC, ensured that design developmentand coordination was both quick andaccurate, especially compared toprevious methods.

This proven process for collaborativedesign enabled Bond Bryan Architectsto deliver the Nuclear AdvancedManufacturing Research Centre designphase three months ahead of schedule.www.graphisoft.co.uk


The


"IFC is the best way to share data between consultants, but it does have some

minor issues that need to be addressed. The only way to resolve these, however,

is to embrace the standard and work with others to improve it" - RRoobb JJaacckkssoonn,,

BBIIMM MMaannaaggeerr,, BBoonndd BBrryyaann AArrcchhiitteeccttss

Graphisoft (4).qxd 11/10/2013 11:40 Page 2

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The government's decision torequire that all suppliers involvedin public sector construction

projects use BIM tools and techniquesby 2016 makes sense. This should helpdrive improvements in value andperformance, whilst supportingenvironmental commitments byfacilitating a more integrated approachto design, construction, and facilitiesmanagement.

However, misinformation is rife. BIM isnot just about 3D data but aboutcreating a holistic information resourcethat also includes 2D data sources,documents, spreadsheets, and more.Nor is BIM best realised by a single,lowest-common-denominator datamodel imposed on every organisationin the supply chain. BIM is a businessprocess, not a technology.

As Neville Glanville, industry salesdirector, Bentley Systems, explains, thekey to realising the compelling BIMvision is simply ensuring that everyindividual and organisation has rapidaccess to the in-depth informationrequired to drive effective cooperationand collaboration at every stage of thedesign, build, and operate lifecycle.

DRIVING VVALUEGiven the sustained economicchallenges being experienced acrossthe building sector, every organisationis looking for better value from buildingprojects. For a cash-strappedgovernment looking at ways ofreinvigorating the economy andeliminating waste, there is a pressingneed to realise objectives, avoid over-runs in both cost and time and ensurethe end infrastructure asset truly

reflects requirements.

The government's commitment to(BIM) is about driving better value fromcapital investment and realising a 20%reduction in lifetime costs. It is alsoabout changing the culture betweenthe client and the rest of the supplychain, replacing the traditional, ratheradversarial business practices with acollaborative approach that should alsodrive innovation.

The key to realising this vision is tocreate simple, effective cooperationamong the design, construction andoperations aspects of the infrastructurelifecycle. Overcoming these traditionalsilos provides a chance to reduceduplication, minimise errors, streamlineprocesses and facilitate collaboration.

Commitment to BIM is growing fast.However, it is apparent that there isconsiderable confusion about what theadoption of BIM actually means toorganisations at different stages of thesupply chain. While the majority of newbids now demand some level of BIMcompliance, requirements are oftenopaque at best.

INFORMATION SSHARING VVIAINFORMATION MMOBILITYAs a result, there is a real risk thatcompanies will either impose costlytechnology choices on partnerorganisations across the buildingsupply chain, from mechanicalengineers to contractors, or becoerced into making technologychoices that fail to reflect other keybusiness requirements simply toachieve BIM compliance. Sadly, thiswill be done in place of approaches

that incorporate coordinatedtechnologies appropriate for the variedroles and tasks.

Unfortunately, the message beingdisseminated across the industry isthat BIM is a design-led initiative that isdependent upon constructioncompanies adopting the same 3D toolsas their design partners (and viceversa) to create a single source ofproject information. This is untrue atmany levels - from the 3D assumptionto the single data source approach.

The single data model is not onlyexpensive and hard to achieve, it alsodoesn't work. Organisations that havetried this model have quicklydiscovered that information becomesfederated because of the manydisciplines involved, and the singlemodel descends into multipleuncontrolled data silos.

Let's set the record straight: BIM,when done correctly, is aboutinformation sharing enabled byinformation mobility (acrossengineering disciplines and theinfrastructure lifecycle). It providescontractors and owner operators withaccess to key design data that can beused to transform effectivenessthroughout the construction andoperations processes. Yes, it drivesbetter use of 3D across the industry,but not only 3D. 2D data remainsimportant, as does information held indocuments, spreadsheets, and otherdatabases, all of which contribute to aholistic BIM approach.

ASSET MMODELBIM is, in fact, about finding the best

ASSET MODELS


Bentley's Neville Glanville asks whether BIM is a business enabler - or a red herring?

The


Bentley.qxd 11/10/2013 11:41 Page 1

way to share and integrate informationfrom many sources, authors andsystems in a managed, secure andtrusted manner. It is ultimately aboutcreating an asset model from day onethat can be used consistentlythroughout the project to driveefficiencies and improve collaboration.

Indeed, BIM also encompassesinformation management as much asinformation modelling. It enables acontractor to feed design informationinto project planning tools and resolvepotential conflicts before arriving onsite. It also empowers the sharing ofspace information with facilitiesmanagement teams before the buildinggoes live to drive effective upfrontplanning, as well as the sharing of othercrucial design, engineering, andconstruction information that can laterbe used to help drive cost-effectiveoperations decision making andrenovations work.

The key questions organisations needto ask are:

What information do we need toshare?

Is a read-only format adequate? How can we safeguard both

intellectual property and informationconsistency?

Of course, if the industry had acommon standard for informationsharing that all IT vendors had tosupport, the BIM vision would be easierto achieve. Without it, the process hasto be an evolutionary one that exploitsexisting IT investments where possiblewithin a more collaborative environment.

Consider any building component,such as a piece of mechanicalequipment. There is multi-disciplinarydesign information to coordinate withthe tools and systems best suited foreach discipline, design andpresentation information in 3D models,layout information in 2D drawings,schedule information in spreadsheets,procurement information in estimatingand purchasing databases,specifications in documents,construction changes in transmittals,field changes in mark-ups, approvalshistory and audit trails in workflowsystems, site photographs, andmaintenance information and operatinginstructions in PDFs. All of this is theinformation model for the building.

Leveraging a collaborative platform

and technology to share and integrateinformation, within an incrementalapproach that accommodates all of thespecialised design simulation andanalysis software best suited for eachproject role, will best enable the industryto achieve the desired widespreadadoption of BIM.

CONCLUSIONThe government's stance on BIM is tobe commended. Demanding Level 2compliance by 2016 is pragmatic andachievable and promotes the very realpromise of intelligent infrastructure thatis better performing in terms of itsenergy efficiency, resilience to naturaland man-made disasters, safety, andcost-efficiency. However, while industryadoption and interest are positive, it isessential that organisations take a stepback and truly assess informationrequirements.

BIM is a business process not atechnology. With the right workflow andprocesses defined, BIM enablesorganisations to improve the quality ofbuilding design, reduce costs andachieve the collaborative workflowsrequired to drive true innovation.www.bentley.com

The



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Acurious name for a Finnishconstruction project, the DerbyBusiness Park is located close to the

Espoo toTurku Motorway. Its name wasn't adrawback in the 2012 Finnish Tekla BIMAwards though, as it won first prize, inlarge part because of its ambitiousintentions to achieve LEED platinumenvironmental certification. Both theconcept and the structural componentswere designed by the Finnish EngineeringMakelainen Ltd Group.

Derby Business Park consists of threeeight-storey office buildings and a separateeight-storey parking garage situated in a39.100 sq.m. plot. The first buildings werecompleted in August 2012 and now housethe headquarters of SRV Construction Ltd.The remaining buildings were scheduled forcompletion this summer. The extremelyambitious aims of the project meant thatthe buildings had to be exceptionallyenergy-efficient, using innovative designand building technology solutions.

The underlying irregular terrain meant thatpart of the Derby project had to be set upon a rock foundation, and part on stilts, thebasement levels including both sheltersand foundations - except for fully elemented(/precast) structures

Raised from the backbone of load-bearingand bracing element walls and reinforcedconcrete hollow core slabs, a complexseries of reinforced concrete columns andprestressed concrete beams formed themain structure of the buildings, with theprincipal load-bearing structures beingcomprised of reinforced concrete and steel.The façades were made mainly out ofreinforced concrete sandwich panels withthe outer surfaces done out in grey andwhite concrete. To assist in itsenvironmental aims, the ventilation of eachrooms exterior walls were assisted bycladding or lamellae, thin steel sheetsandwich panels.

The building’s structural framework is anintegral part of the design - the in-situfoundations, reinforced concrete elementsand steel structures added up to over 6,700reinforced concrete elements (a total of1,700 wall panels, more than 900 post-and-beam elements, as well as more than 4100plate elements) clearly shown in the detailfrom pictures and diagrams of theinstallation created in Tekla Structuressoftware.

EFFECTIVE PPLANNINGAs the project developed, the workloadintensified, and designer numbers (half of

them from Makelainen) increased, but theproject managed to stay on schedule,using multiple shifts, and maintaining real-time monitoring of the model. "The endresult surpassed the original 2D design,allowing not just the design of complexdetails such as individual joints, butassociating these with collaboratingengineering groups working on the design,"explained Ville Jurvansuu, of ConsultingEngineers Makelainen.

"3D Modelling," he added, "also enabledengineers to consider the impact andcompatibility considerations of eight-storeyparking garages with spiral and diagonalramps, which would have been difficult todesign and visualise in a 2D environment."

MODELLING BBENEFITSAll project members were in a position toshare model data - with HVAC, plumbingand electrical designers were able to useboth structural models and architecturaldesigns (all located in the same place) toaccess dimensions and other attributes ofload-bearing structures, and also thelocations of other building systems andstructures enabling them to run clashdetection analyses. "Significant amounts ofdata sharing was made possible using IFCformatted files," said Jurvansuu, "which weearmarked right at the start as the principalmeans of sharing data. We were fullyjustified in doing so, and communicationbetween design teams using 3D modeltechnology worked without a hitch from thestart." Without it, Jurvansuu added, "projectmembers would have found it difficult tounderstand the complexity of thestructures."

FABRICATION IINFORMATIONMODELLINGExtending the BIM design chain, the Tekla

DERBY WINS IN FINLAND


The power of the data model was used to facilitate the construction of the Derby Business Park,winner of the Finnish Tekla BIM Awards in 2012

The


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Tekla’s 3D BIM software for precast detailing can be used to support the entire workflow from sales and estimating, to detailed design, automated drawing production, integrated manufacturing, status tracking and project management.

a www.tekla.com/uk

PRECAST JUST GOT FASTER

“We’ve successfully used multi-material Tekla models in many projects. In addition to being able to provide our customers with the complex geometry, we’ve achieved at least a 10% increase in precast concrete productivity and 50% more accurate detailing and fabrication through efficient modelling.” Andreas Solberg, Contiga.

A TRIMBLE COMPANY

BIM models were used to produceschedules for procurement, usingFabrication Information Modellingprocesses integrated within manufacturingfacilities using the Betele productionplanning system, and taking data directlyfrom the model to manufacture concrete,steel and insulation components. "Besidesspeeding up the fabrication processconsiderably," says Jurvansuu, "providingaccurate data and quantities directly fromsource eliminates errors and reduceswaste."

Although familiar now with steelfabricators, Consulting EngineersMäkeläinen tested the process with MHConcrete Ltd, pioneering such usage forthe first time in the concrete industry. "Aninteresting pilot and I believe more willfollow. Electronic communication is a newfield for concrete, and the approach is sureto be refined even further," says CEO IlkkaHonkonen, MH Concrete Ltd.

UNDERSTANDING TTHE DDATATekla's Rendering tools were widely usedfor the BIM design process by the principalcontractor, mainly for contractor meetings,detailing current work phases and allowingconstruction and installation details to bethoroughly understood, before the relevantconstruction documents were printed outand distributed. Using the model,impending clashes in installation andworking processes became quicklyapparent, and were able to be ironed out.

"Using the model we can immediately seeand resolve possible collisions or conflicts,and eliminate unnecessary mistakes,which frequently surface in a project of this

complexity," said the project engineerPetteri Nieminen of SRV Construction Ltd.

BIM was also influential in setting up theDerby building site logistics and placingsafety equipment for use duringconstruction, such as railing locations andsafety guards designed and placed on atemporary basis within the model. Thisincluded things like guards around openelevator shafts, temporary work platforms,safety nets and component mountingequipment - all of which are removed onceconstruction is completed.

Temporary installations were not just usedfor safety purposes. Parts of the buildingsrequired temporary supports to provide adegree of stability to areas underconstruction - variations on woodenshuttering used for in-situ concrete pouring.

DESIGN TTEAM CCOLLABORATIONThe project design, using Tekla Structures,delivered a weekly updated building modelto the site using Tekla's BIMsight. ThisConstruction site model was used bycontractors on the ground, whether theywere familiar with CAD or not, to visualiseand coordinate the next phases ofconstruction, with particular reference tothe actual design, elements undermanufacture and construction, and thetasks to be monitored using the model.

Having such information available in sucha format, and especially for the installationof building services, would have beenimpossible within a purely 2D environment,and site personnel considered the use ofthe model to be easy to use - and ofsignificant benefit to them.

KEEPING PPROJECTS UNDER CCONTROLThe information available in BIM-basedconstruction projects can be used within arange of applications that set up andmonitor operational and financialobjectives. This means BIM can be used asan effective tool in cost control, budgetmaintenance, the comparison of alternativeconstruction solutions and the selection ofsystems and solutions easier. It also meansthat the knowledge inherent in BIM is ofvalue to a wider audience than merearchitects, engineers and other dedicatedconstruction specialists.

As Jurvansuu says, "The BIM data modelcontains much more information, which isnow available for anyone to discover andtake advantage of." His sentiments areechoed by Petteri Nieminen from SRV, whodoesn't entirely rule out older practises, butsays that hard copy output is still a viabletool on the building site, and instead ofdiscarding the process in favour of the 3Dmodel, the model must be used to optimisethe value of the hard copy printout -producing more relevant information on atimelier basis.

A final word from the Manager ofConsulting Engineers Mäkeläinen - LasseMakelainen himself. "During this large scaleproject, more and more people in thecompany successfully entered into theworld of BIM and Tekla - which we nowintend to use for all future new buildingconstruction."

Derby Business Park Contractors include:Client: SRV Construction Ltd. Contractor: SRV Construction Ltd.Architect: Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Structural engineers: EngineersMäkeläinen Ltd. Element Design: EngineeringMäkeläinen Ltd.HVAC designer: GranlundEquipment Suppliers: Betset Ltd., MHConcrete Ltd.

Other parties: Turku damper andInsulation Ltd.

www.tekla.com


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An independent, international juryof nine engineering specialistsfrom industry, research and

education evaluated this year's entries.Winners were selected in fourcategories and judged by theiroriginality, complexity and use of thesoftware in an Open BIM workflow.

Among the nominees was WorthingNew Pools, a landmark development onthe South Coast of the UK. The strikingform reflects a desire to provide not justa community leisure centre, but aniconic building that will attract interestand investment in the local area.

Complex and irregular geometrycombines with a mix of steel, timber andglass to create a sculpted and strikingbuilding. Clear communication of thegeometry and the predicted movementsat interfaces was essential to thesuccessful delivery, and relied heavilyon the use of Scia Engineer.

This iconic building was commissioned to

replace an ageing 1960s leisure centre andbreathe new life into the architecture ofWorthing's sea front. Wilkinson EyreArchitects, supported by AECOM, won thearchitecture design competition with theirdesign. The sculptural from echoes thesand and driftwood of the shoreline. Thenew leisure centre brings inspirationaldesign into a facility at the heart of the localcommunity.

CONCEPTThe signature element of the structure is thepool hall, with steps and curves achieved ina complex steel curve, helping to create aflowing roof profile reminiscent of ridges ofsand on a beach. Clad in copper and glasswith a timber soffit, the pool hall is setalongside the timber clad concrete frame ofthe leisure centre.

ASYMMETRIC CCURVED BBEAMSThe lines of the pool hall flow towards theshore, supported by two doubly-curved,doubly-asymmetric welded box sections.These are 1.3m deep, span over 50m andweigh one metric tonne per metre. They

carry axial load, bi-axial bending andtorsion due to curvature. Cross-sectionproperties were explored and optimisedusing the 'general cross-section' modulewithin Scia, in addition to section checksand stability checks.

Scia was used to calculate the permanentdeflection that could be precambered.Checks were also made on distortionaldeformations, using a detailed model of thebeam as a series of plates. High levelclerestory glazing sits above the beamsand is framed in steelwork. Movement jointswere introduced in the clerestory rail toensure that vierendeel action did not attractexcessive axial load to the rail.

STABILITY WWITHOUT BBRACINGThe North and South elevations are entirelyglazed, leaving no room for diagonalbracing against the westerly wind. Lateralstability is achieved with a network ofslender SHS struts concealed within thetimber roof zone. These transmit axial lateralloads to the adjacent concrete frame. At thesteps in roof profile the eccentricity isresolved by taking an additional torsionalmoment into the fabricated box beams.This achieves a structure without eitherdiagonal bracing of the heavy members ofa portal frame.

MOVEMENTS AAND IINTERFACESThe steel frame supports extensive glazing,a timber roof, and copper cladding. Thelateral stability system gives a relativelyflexible structure. As glazing in particular issensitive to movements, the full 3D

WORTHING NEW POOLS


Nemetschek asked the jury in their eighth edition of their user contest 'Inspirations in Engineering'to focus on Open BIM and sustainability

The


Exceptional achievements and innovative works from the world's top engineering and construction professionals againmade Nemetschek’s "Inspirations in Engineering" an inspiring event. More international than ever, the contest was open toall Scia Engineer, Allplan Engineering, Allplan Precast, Frilo Statics and Glaser -isb CAD users. 127 projects were submittedby 97 outstanding engineering organisations in 28 different countries.

CADs.qxd 11/10/2013 11:49 Page 1

steelwork geometry was analysed to predictthe deflections under self-weight, imposedloads and wind loads. The roof geometrygave rise to interactions whereby lateralloading created vertical deflections, andvice versa. It was also critical to provide asliding bearing for the timber roof panels, toensure that thermal stresses could not buildup and cause fixing failure. A movementsand tolerances report used graphics fromScia to communicate the movements thatfollow-on trades were required toaccommodate at interfaces.

CONCRETE FFRAME - DDYNAMICSAND NNON-LLINEAR AANALYSISOn the second floor of the leisure centre,long spans combine with a fitness studio tocreate a dynamically sensitive area. Modalanalysis was carried out and the slabdesigned appropriately to eliminatedynamic effects from rhythmic activities.

The south elevation of the leisure centre

cantilevers over the beach promenade. Toachieve a picture window with unrestrictedviews of the sea, columns were omittedand replaced with a grillage ofcantilevering beams. At the longest span,a 9m concrete cantilever required a fullnon-linear cracked section analysis, withactual reinforcement modelled. Thisdemonstrated that long-term deflectionswill be within acceptable limits.

COLLABORATION CCOMMUNICATION3D analysis and drafting were crucial tocommunicating the design to thefabrication. A combination of Scia Engineer,Autodesk Revit and Rhinoceros were usedby the design team, with both thesteelworker and timber sub-contractordeveloping 3D models of their packagesfrom design team information.

Speaking about the awards, Dr. ir. Jean-Pierre Rammant, head of the NemetschekStructural Group, explains, "This eighth

edition of our Engineering Awards is a realcelebration and tribute to the outstandingworks of our users. These high-qualityprojects illustrate what great engineers canaccomplish with our technology. We areproud of our users, as well as theircontribution to the global engineeringcommunity."

OPEN BBIM AAND SSUSTAINABILITYMr. Rammant also stressed theindispensable role of Open BIM and theimportance of sustainability in this year'sAwards, which the jury confirmed whenawarding a Special "Open BIM" Jury Prize toGrontmij, for their New Energy InstituteWuhan project (also called the EnergyFlower). This Calla lily-shaped building ishailed as one of the most sustainablebuilding in the world, and it is expected tobe both zero carbon and zero energy -which, incidentally, will be featured asanother case study in CAD User magazine. www.nemetschek.com

The


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