Miscommunication and mistakes can plague construction projects and create a budget overrun. How can you begin to fix these issues? By creating BIM models.
The Advantages of BIM Models
Modeling is an excellent collaboration tool. Team members work from the same database file, so everyone sees the changes. And, when using REVIT, edits made to a model automatically update all related components in the file.
Models can help point out design conflicts ahead of time, reducing on-site changes, keeping your project on schedule and budget.
The detailed data found in models help project managers better estimate costs, coordinate supply deliveries, and establish and track milestones.
Modeling helps improve communication and expectations by gathering and managing all the building information across the entire project lifecycle.
How to utilize 3D scanning to create BIM models
3D scanning is a critical contributor for creating BIM models for as-builts and existing conditions projects.
3D scanning allows you to utilize your staff and your time efficiently. What traditionally takes multiple workers several days using a tape measure and camera is done at a fraction of the time with 3D scanning. In most cases, scanning an existing site requires only one person, and depending on the size of the site, at a minimum, one to two days to complete.
The Leica scanner captures images and measurements in a matter of seconds. And with their accompanying tablet software, scans can be registered and stitched together on-site. Then once back at the office, you can bring the point cloud file into REVIT to create your model for sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 3D building model?
A BIM model gives your entire project team access to a shared, data rich representation of the building rather than separate drawings. This improves coordination, reduces miscommunication, and helps identify design issues before they become expensive construction problems.
- Improve collaboration across architects, engineers, and contractors.
- Reduce design conflicts before construction begins.
- Create a single source of project information.
- Support design, construction, and facility management.
How do BIM models reduce change orders?
BIM models allow project teams to identify coordination issues before construction starts by bringing architectural, structural, and MEP systems into a single digital model. Detecting conflicts early reduces unexpected field changes, delays, and additional project costs.
- Improve clash detection between building systems.
- Reduce rework in the field.
- Improve construction sequencing.
- Support more accurate project planning.
Can BIM models improve communication between project teams?
Yes. BIM models provide a centralized source of accurate building information that every stakeholder can reference throughout the project. Working from the same model improves communication, reduces misunderstandings, and helps teams make informed decisions more quickly.
- Architects, engineers, contractors, and owners work from the same data.
- Reduce conflicting information between disciplines.
- Improve coordination throughout every project phase.
- Support faster decision making.
What is a 3D building model?
BIM models are created by converting accurate point cloud data collected through 3D laser scanning into intelligent Revit models. This process captures existing conditions with far greater detail than manual field measurements and creates a dependable foundation for renovation and construction projects.
- Millions of measurements are captured during scanning.
- Existing conditions are modeled with greater accuracy.
- Reduce manual measuring and repeat site visits.
- Deliver Revit models tailored to project requirements.
What information is included in a BIM model?
A BIM model contains intelligent building elements and project information that extends beyond simple geometry. Depending on the project requirements, models can include walls, doors, windows, structural systems, mechanical equipment, and other building components along with the data needed to support design and construction.
- Architectural, structural, and MEP elements.
- Accurate building dimensions.
- Existing conditions documentation.
- Information that supports planning, coordination, and facility management.
Why choose Siteline360 for BIM modeling in Boston?
Siteline360 creates accurate BIM models, Revit deliverables, CAD drawings, and existing conditions documentation for projects throughout Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. Using NavVis technology and precise laser scan data, we help architects, engineers, contractors, and owners reduce project risk while improving coordination from the start.
- Accurate BIM models built from high precision laser scan data.
- Deliverables customized to your project scope and Level of Development.
- Local support throughout planning, design, construction, and renovation.
- Faster collaboration with fewer design conflicts and change orders.