Vico Guest Blogger #4: Taking BIM to the Field in Chicago
Posted by Holly Allison on Fri, Feb 26, 2010 @ 01:55 PM
Did you know that Vico was the first virtual construction software to create an integration with Trimble? Now many BIM-authoring tools like Tekla and Revit also have integrations with the Trimble LM 80 and robotic Total Station. It's become an essential way to share data from the preconstruction team with the trailer. This means that you can transfer points from your BIM directly into the handheld device and shoot the points out on the jobsite. This integration streamlines the field placement of structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering systems.
Precision Midwest, a Trimble dealer in the midwest, is organizing the first annual BIM Expo in Chicago on March 18th. The goal of the event is to make Chicago-area GCs aware of the many ways to incorporate BIM technologies and methodologies into their firms.
Precision placement of hangers and bracings is critical for safety and off-site material fabrication. This is a key component of successfully extending BIM to subcontractors and field crews. We've seen first-hand how successful the integration is at St. Joseph's Mission Hospital in Southern California. With this integration, there is less time wasted on inefficient layout of the building plan and less waste of materials due to re-work and overages.
Here's a summary of the integration with Trimble:
The build to design and design to build processes ensure that the information captured in the building model make it to the construction site and back. The design to build process requires the design team, contractor and subcontractor collaborate early using a 3D model with the right amount of detail. The model helps the project team design structures based on accurate construction information.
The second step of the process is the build to design phase. The contractor and subcontractors can use the as-built measurements to verify the quality of construction and check acceptable tolerances using the building model. When as-built conditions are combined and overlaid with the model, the contractor can make sure that all structures are built according to specification. The B2D and D2B processes reduce field rework and allow subcontractors to prefabricate more off-site. The result is reduced field labor hours, therefore reduced cost of the project and savings for all project stakeholders.
At the BIM Expo or in a web demonstration, we can show your team how to simplify the placement of structural, concrete, and MEP systems:
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After placing site survey points into the 5D BIM model, users can download critical formwork and steel locations (x, y, z) automatically to their Trimble Total Station; |
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Download centerlines and edge lines of piping and ductwork to assist subs in properly placing equipment; |
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Automatically generate hanger and insert locations, as well as seismic bracings after positioning the hangers in the model; |
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Download locations for hangers and bracing inserts into slab formwork and sleeve locations for floor penetrations to improve structural concrete systems. |
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Verify that key elements are installed within acceptable tolerance ranges and resolve any downstream conflicts |
This workflow integration provides a significant opportunity for contractors to improve productivity. If these guidelines are followed correctly, it's possible to prefab far more than is typical for one-off designs and to complete the project with no field work.
We hope you can get to the event if you live in the area. But if distance is a barrier, here are some electronic resources for your team:
Learn more about Precision Midwest and their services to GCs, Subs, and Owners in the greater Chicago area.
To learn more about the BIM Expo, please email Nick DiBitetto or call him at (630) 836-1000.