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Scan to BIM in the design and construction phase
BIM for Engineers, Scan to BIM

Differences between Scan to BIM for the design and construction phase

December 2, 20200

Scan to BIM improves the process of new construction projects or renovations in several ways. It adds value in every aspect throughout the building’s lifecycle. It helps users save time and cost thanks to well-informed decision-making.

The BIM models created from the Scan to BIM process have been applied for various purposes according to different project phases (i.e, design, construction, operation, and management). Knowing the intended applications of BIM models will enable you to identify the right information requirements in the models.

That’s why we’ve put together this article for you on the differences between how the Scan to BIM is applied for the design phase and the construction phase. With extensive experience in creating 3D BIM models, we will have suggestions for you on 3D BIM models that are suitable for the intended applications.

But before jumping into BIM models, let’s get started with how the Scan to BIM can be beneficial at each project phase below.

1. How Scan to BIM benefits the design phase

Let’s say you are hired for a project at School. Your clients need to gather documentation on the existing construction conditions. This information is later used to design the building that meets the site conditions. What’s happened if BIM models were created on outdated or fragmented information. It is more likely to waste you much time, even then, trigger significant consequences for all users. So as for this type of situation, the Scan to BIM is a good choice.

The information from the Scan to BIM process is highly accurate and detailed. It enables designers to be aware of the existing site conditions better to make an optimal building design. For instance, a renovation project in the UK applied the Scan to BIM to create reliable and accurate data. All models required LOD 4 in the UK standard.

Scan to BIM for Administrative Building in the UK

Not only the design phase but the Scan to BIM also continue adding values to the rest phase of the project lifecycle. It plays a more and more vital role in every aspect of the construction project. What’s more, it improves communication with the rest of the project team to ensure well-informed decision making. Keep reading the following section to discover the Scan to BIM uses in the construction phase.

2. How Scan to BIM benefits the construction phase

In the construction phase, the Scan to BIM has been adopted for various purposes. Especially, it can help to solve time-consuming and arduous tasks. For instance, you need to collect data to review the actual project progress. To get the job done, you are more likely to have to visit on-site construction to take measurements. This requires careful planning on when you visit the site, the amount of time you’re allowed to spend there, the number of personnel needed for the task.

All this costs your time, resources, and budget. But, by using the Scan to BIM, you can spend fewer efforts on these tasks. Some use-case scenarios of the Scan to BIM in the construction phase include:

  • Quality assessment/ quality control (QA/QC);
  • Early problem detection;
  • Progress tracking on a project;
  • Virtual environments for installation and assembly;

We’ve already analyzed in detail these applications in the previous article How Scan to BIM is used in the construction phase. Now hope that you can know the different applications of the Scan to BIM in each project phase. The next step is that you need to identify the information requirements of the BIM models.

Bonus: How Scan to BIM is used in the construction phase

3. Differences of required information in BIM models

The different uses of the Scan to BIM require different information in the BIM models. Thus, it is essential to identify all the requirements for the intended BIM models before getting started with the process of Scan to BIM. This enables you to avoid collecting too much information or insufficient information that impacts the quality of the BIM models.

So what requirements do you need to determine? There are three aspects we need to identify including:

  • Required building elements: Refers to the building elements that should be modeled in BIM models. For instance, stair, exterior windows, exterior walls
  • Required level of detail (LOD): Lets you know the degree to which the building element is detailed. Five popular levels include LOD 100, LOD 200, LOD 300, LOD 400, LOD 500;
  • Required non-geometric attributes: Refers to some properties such as materials, colors of the building elements;

As mentioned above, the Scan to BIM application is different between the design and construction phases. So what information are BIM models included for these phases?

3D BIM models for the design phase

According to the NBS report, 71% of designers expect that manufacturers should create fully-functional parameterized 3D BIM objects. In other words, 3D BIM models for the design phase include two key factors:

  • The functionality of 3D BIM objects. For instance, assigning internal or external function to BIM objects, adding tolerance of all warped objects, etc;
  • Valuable and rich information. Some information includes size parameter, materials, naming conventions, etc;

The BIM models can need high LOD specification such as LOD 300, LOD 400. Creating parametric 3D models makes reviewing become quick, accurate, and intuitive. Also, it gives designers the flexibility to respond to on-going design challenges.

Functional model - Scan to BIM services

Bonus: It’s time to convey design intent value for Scan to BIM projects

Looking for a Scan to BIM provider for construction projects?

Our BIM consultant is happy to help you with any question. Just share with us your requirements, we’ll work with you to analyze the project and give you a budgetary quotation.



3D BIM models for the construction phase

Yet, there will be a little bit of difference in BIM models for the construction phase. Unlike architects, some contractors use 3D BIM models to track the project progress or clash detection. Thus, the BIM Models generated from the Scan to BIM process may be less detailed. The BIM models for this type of application can be within LOD 200-300. They expect BIM models include some factors that help them group clashes or search components

BIM coordination - clash detection

Wrapping up

We hope that the article clarifies the different uses of the Scan to BIM in each project phase. Besides, you can also know the required information in BIM models for the intended use. Therefrom, you are able to add values to BIM models for your clients at any phase of the project lifecycle.

If you are looking for a Scan to BIM provider that enables you to create BIM models for intended applications, don’t hesitate to let us know. We are 100% confident to help you reach your goals. Our BIM consultants will work with you to analyze the project and give you an optimal solution with a budgetary quotation.

Contact ViBIM today for a free consultation and demonstration.

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Scan to BIM in construction phase
BIM for Engineers, Scan to BIM

How Scan to BIM is used in the construction phase

November 27, 20200

As many construction projects have adopted BIM technology, we witness a natural surge of Scan to BIM. The Scan to BIM refers to the use of 3D laser scanning to capture existing conditions of buildings as point cloud data and the creation of BIM models from these data. In construction projects, the Scan to BIM brings benefits to each and every project phase such as design, construction, operation, and management phase. However, each phase has different requirements depending on the purpose of use.

In this article, we will shed some light on how Scan to BIM is applied in the construction phase. This might point out some great ideas that help you improve your Scan to BIM projects. Let’s keep reading on it to get more information.

1. The purpose of Scan to BIM in the construction phase

To get the most out of Scan to BIM models, you need to identify the purpose of using the models first. When understanding clearly how Scan to BIM models will be applied, you will determine the right approach. Let’s take a look at some following use-case scenarios of Scan to BIM in the construction phase.

Quality assessment/ quality control (QA/QC)

One of the popular applications of Scan to BIM in the construction phase is for quality assessment/quality control (QA/QC). The 3D models created from Scan to BIM process are often compared to the previously designed 3D BIM models to identify any discrepancy between them. Also, these 3D models are used to determine the tolerance values specified in the requirements when modeling.

Early problem detection

Let’s imagine you’re hired for a project at a Hospital. The Scan to BIM process allows you to create a 3D BIM model to present to the project team. The model pointed out to all of your project team more than 10 conflicts where the pipework running through a steel beam. With a clear picture of the problem, stakeholders will know what they should do to make a constructible model. For example, the design team will need to make the change and quickly approve a change order. More importantly, the project team avoids costing more money than planned to solve these issues if they weren’t detected before the build.

 

Scan to BIM construction phase - clash detection

Monitor progress on a project

Progress tracking is a vital part of the construction phase to assure the project’s progress. The Scan to BIM will be a good choice for this. By scanning the on-site construction works and create 3D BIM models, you might compare them with the designed BIM models to review the project schedule. As a result, you are able to see the actual progress in comparison with the plan and know exactly what the construction works need to be completed.

Create virtual environments for installation

Several contractors utilize the Scan to BIM to simulate the installation and assemblies in virtual conditions. In this way, contractors can recognize any potential problem such as clashes between the components to solve them before creating the actual installation. In this way, the Scan to BIM helps contractors save construction time and costs thanks to early problem identification for installation and assembly.

Generally speaking, use-case scenarios for Scan to BIM in the construction phase is diverse. It can be used for both new constructions and renovations and the purpose is flexible depending on the requirements of each project. With understanding the purpose of Scan to BIM, now you can identify the right laser scanning solutions and create suitable deliverables.

Looking for a Scan to BIM provider for construction projects?

Our BIM consultant is happy to help you with any question. Just share with us your requirements, we’ll work with you to analyze the project and give you a budgetary quotation.



2. Think about purpose-built BIM models

Now it’s time to determine the necessary point cloud data and BIM modeling process. This enables you to create BIM models with the right and sufficient data. In general, we see that the deliverables are varied depending on the requirements of each project. However, to create BIM models that meet the right client requirements, you should create a querying checklist to clarify any concerns like LOD or LOI requirements between you and your clients.

 

BIM outsourcing services

 

For instance, some contractors will need a BIM model for clash detection so the final BIM model may be less detailed than the BIM models created for the design phase. They can expect the BIM models contain factors like name conventions that help them group clashes or search components with ease. If you are not aware of your client’s expectations, don’t worry, the best way is frankly to talk to them to know more. By understanding the client requirements, you can optimize the implementation time of the project but still creating the deliverables meeting their expectations.

 

Scan to BIM in construction - BIM model

3. Self-do it all or outsourcing?

The Scan to BIM includes the process of capturing existing conditions as point cloud data and the creation of BIM models from these scanned data. So there are several ways to optimize the Scan to BIM process for the construction project.

If you are a 3D laser scanning company and hired for a project at school, of course, you can self-perform laser scanning processes and even create BIM models from point cloud data. However, you are completely able to optimize cost for the Scan to BIM project by choosing to outsource a part of the work and focus only on your strengths.

Partnering with a service provider, for example, specializing in BIM modeling from point cloud data may be a good choice. It provides more flexibility to solve varied works, approaching professionals with expertise in each area.

Bonus: Best BIM outsourcing services providers 2020

Competition in Scan to BIM services is increasing. This creates both challenges and opportunities for firms. So it’s necessary to differentiate yourself from competitors, find the best ways to optimize your cost and improve the quality of services. In this way, you can enhance the competitiveness in the market. We are on the journey to help you reach this goal. It’s why we provide high-quality BIM services that are tailored to your specific needs and affordable.

Looking for a reliable Scan to BIM partner?

If you are looking for a way to increase competitive edges and win more projects, take a few minutes to learn more about our BIM services. We specialize in Scan to BIM services for projects in both the design and construction phases. You can also find out more about our BIM services through the projects we’ve delivered to clients in the US, UK, Australia, and more.

In case you want to talk to our Scan to BIM experts, feel free to let us know. Our BIM consultants are happy to have a meeting with you and help you reach your goals.

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BIM activies around the world 2020
BIM for Engineers, ViBIM updates

BIM activities around the world 2020

August 19, 20200

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is not a trendy new technology. It has gone through some highlights in 2019. There is a positive sign that the industry has come and worked together around BIM to resolve some challenges. This also provides optimistic thinking about BIM prospects in 2020 worldwide. Several countries have also used BIM as the standard design framework for the industry. In the article, we will help to keep up to date with BIM activities in some countries in the world and understand more about the future of BIM technology.

1. BIM introduction

BIM was first introduced in the architectural research of Chuck Eastman in the 1970s. In 2002, Autodesk popularized the term to a wide audience in a white paper to define their strategy for their products.

Generally speaking, BIM is known as an advanced technology used in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC) industry to increase collaboration amongst stakeholders involved in the project. BIM includes two things – functional characteristics in structural 3D models and a “database-first” approach to these models.

 

 

BIM design development service

 

The approach lets AEC firms collaborate to design and analyze building systems quickly and efficiently. They can access and edit building information to the graphical files of a single dataset. Any changes made are automatically updated throughout all of the documentation. This helps to improve collaboration, reduce cost, increase quality control, and plan better. Besides, building owners and facility managers can use 3D models to manage and collect data on buildings and structures as well.

2. Understand BIM levels

BIM levels refer to levels of BIM maturity which range from Level 0 to Level 3 and beyond.

BIM Level 0 refers to the use of computer-aided designs (CADs) in the design process. There is no collaboration being done within the level. So according to the new UK regulations, the 2D CADs are now considered “BIM Level 0”.

BIM Level 1 is the most common level at which organizations are operating. It usually includes the use of 3D CAD for conceptual design, 2D for documentation. Despite the appearance of 3D modeling, the software was still limited by the “graphics-first” approach. So this is known as “BIM Level 1”.

BIM Level 2 is a new step that allows a team to use their own 3D CAD model. At the level, all CAD software must have the ability to export one of the common file formats such as Industry Foundation Class (IFC) or Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie). It’s required to create a Common Data Environment (CDE) which is effectively a shared data change place.

BIM Level 3 covers the true definition of BIM – “database-first”. With level 3, each party may access and edit a single and shared project model. Also, the level reduces the risk of conflicting information amongst all parties involved and disciplines.

 

BIM activities around the world 2020

BIM maturity model Bew-Richards

Multiple countries apply these BIM levels to their regulations based on project type. For example, countries can mandate that all public projects use BIM Level 2. To understand better how some countries are using BIM standards, take a look at the list of countries below.

Bonus: BIM capability assessment – what you should know

3. BIM requirements in some countries 2020

BIM in the United Kingdom: Growth of BIM awareness

According to the prediction, the construction industry in the United Kingdom will grow by up to 70% by 2025. The United Kingdom is known as a leader in BIM implementation. The UK government mandated the use of BIM Level 2 for all construction projects funded by the government since early 2016. According to a survey of the National Building Specification (NBS) 2019, around 70% of respondents were aware of BIM. The figure was higher than that of 2011 with more than 10%.

The UK’s construction strategy declared that it would save 20% on procurement costs thanks to BIM adoption across the entire country. Multiple companies had to quickly find out the process to comply with the standards. The UK will be more likely to become a leader in BIM over the next few years. However, there will still be roadblocks to adoption they need to resolve in the next time.

BIM in the United States: new BIM standard version coming soon

BIM is more and more becoming a widespread requirement for construction projects in the United States. Due to the different requirements of each state, BIM implementation here varies on each project. Although there are several BIM guidelines in the United States, the industry lacks government BIM standards.

Currently, the National BIM Standard (NBIM-US) do their utmost to integrate different industry guidelines to create a unified set of procedures. It is supported by professional groups such as BuildSMART. They plan to release a new version late this year. NBIMS-US 4.0 will be a module so it can be expanded more easily and continually in the future.

Dodge Data & Analytics conducted an industry study on general contractors, construction managers, and specialty trades in 2019. The result showed that 89% of respondents use BIM on at least some of their projects. Several US states are now adopting BIM for projects of a certain scale. Wisconsin, for instance, requires the BIM on all new construction projects with the value of US $2.5 million or more.

BIM in Germany: Mandate in 2020

In Germany, the government is boosting the adoption of BIM across the country. It’s predicted that Germany can mandate BIM for all infrastructure projects by the end of 2020. To aid BIM implementation, a group of industry experts, large companies, and non-governmental organizations have teamed up to establish a German BIM Steering Group.

BIM in France: 2020 is witnessing a surge

The French government mandated the adoption of the BIM process for infrastructure projects in 2017. Currently, France is still on the roadmap to digitize its construction sector. The national government also launched the Digital Transition Plan. This aims at helping AEC firms optimize costs and improve sustainability. It is expected that BIM in France will continue to add value to the construction projects and improve the economy.

BIM in Australia: Expected BIM growth will be $6.5 billion by 2020

The adoption of the BIM process in Australia is still fragmented since there is no unified approach to it. There are 75% of construction projects using BIM. More than 60% of project experts are regular BIM users. A national not-for-profit organization (NATSPEC), owned by Government and Industry launched its BIM National Guide in September 2011. It is expected that BIM growth in Australia will be $6.5 billion by 2020.

BIM in Japan

A survey conducted by the Statista Research Department in 2019 showed that more than 17% of architecture companies in Japan were using BIM for their projects. BIM implementation in Japan is developing but not strategically unified. In general, Japanese firms are not keen on implementing BIM since their client does not recognize the benefits of BIM. BIM is still on the way to help stakeholders to reduce risk and uncertainty.

BIM in Singapore

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore implemented the BIM Roadmap in 2010. The government also aimed at 80% of the construction industry would use BIM in 2015. They had the policy to lead the BIM implementation, whereas clients in the private sector would evaluate the value and cost of BIM. It’s required for architects and engineers to use BIM for the design process.

Although this list is not exhaustive for every country, the information will help you get a great idea about the global BIM standards. If you have more information about your country, comment below and let us know!

Bonus: Spotlight on the Vietnamese BIM capability

The future of BIM technology

The benefits of BIM for the construction industry are inevitable. There are still challenges and overhead costs will be barriers for BIM implementation. However, if the AEC firms do not embrace the changes, they will lose the competitive edge and eventually go out of business.

The future of BIM is still a single source of a dataset that allows all parties to access and edit on the same data pool. The next step is to combine this 3D modeling with reality capture technology to deliver detailed models. It’s time to get started!

If you’re thinking about BIM implementation and need a hand-on help, feel free to let us know. Our BIM consultant is happy to help you answer any questions you may have.

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Vietnamese BIM capability
BIM for Engineers, ViBIM updates

Spotlight on the Vietnamese BIM capability 2020

July 31, 20200

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has widely been adopted across the industry worldwide. The UK government mandated Level 2 BIM in every construction project funded by the government in 2016. In the United States, although there is no BIM mandate from the government, BIM is gaining popularity. BIM experts predicted that BIM has been changing the way we manage projects at all stages of the life cycle.

Likely, BIM conception has increasingly become popular in the Vietnam construction industry. The Vietnam government also approved the proposal “BIM adoption for construction projects and operation & management activities”. The government agencies together develop an official BIM Roadmap to 2021. Along with the BIM application in construction projects, Vietnam has also been focusing on developing BIM human resources.

In this article, we’re going to share with you some insights on the current state of BIM adoption in Vietnam and spotlights on Vietnamese BIM capability. Let’s explore!

1. BIM in Vietnam

In Vietnam, BIM has started to be adopted in the construction industry. From 2018 to 2020, several projects funded by the national government have applied for BIM in the design, construction, and operation management stage. BIM application for the design process is mainly for civil and industrial projects, transportation, and infrastructure projects.

The BIM use helps investors shorten progress, save costs by optimizing construction scheduling, and predicted difficulties in the construction stage. For example, BIM helps to optimize construction and installation progress in the Cheeky factory project invested by Procter & Gamble, SEA. Also, it helps to shorten about 10% of project duration, decline 8% of the workload, and about 40% of times to fix the changes in construction in Park Hill 6 project.

Vietnamese BIM capability - bim in vietnam

Source: Foster

According to BIM Roadmap, by 2021 BIM will be used widely in construction activities and facility operation and management. This has shown that the national government has considered BIM a is an inevitable development. There will be a serious approach to advanced technology to improve the national construction industry.

Also, the Vietnamese government has introduced incentives to encourage organizations to apply BIM technology. A wide range of government agencies, BIM consultants, project managers, BIM solution providers, and more worked together to create a set of BIM guidelines. It’s expected that BIM will be introduced in university curriculums.

To date, Vietnam is moving on the right track in BIM adoption. The talent hub is deep with the younger generations. The government is supportive and recognizes the benefits of BIM adoption. We hope the development of BIM in Vietnam will be accomplished efficiently shortly.

Bonus: Relocate BIM outsourcing partner to Vietnam amid COVID-19. Why?

2. BIM Talents in Vietnam

According to the proposal “BIM adoption for construction projects and operation & management activities”, Vietnam will also focus on training BIM human resources. Currently, there are a large number of Vietnamese architectural students and graduates. They are highly motivated, qualified, forward-thinking, and excellent in using 3D design software. With professional training, the quality level is more and more increasing. The surge in BIM talents is also driving the growth of BIM in Vietnam.

Besides, Vietnam also cooperates with international organizations to drive the development of BIM human resources in Vietnam. For example, the project ‘Developing BIM human resources in Vietnam through the emergence and delivery of BIM professional training courses and sustainable partnerships with business/industry’ supported by the British Council.

The University College of Northern Denmark (UCN), one of the most highly evaluated Architectural Technologist institutions in the world, entered Vietnam in 2017. This institution also launched Architectural Technology and Construction Management courses. The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) is also having great contributions in enhancing the awareness of advanced technology use in architecture.

Vietnam has witnessed an increase in the number of talented BIM engineers. This will contribute to providing the global market with qualified BIM human resources.

3. BIM solution providers in Vietnam

A climbing trend in BIM application has created the emergence of BIM solution providers to meet the demands of the market. Some typical BIM solution providers include ViBIM, HSD Vietnam, etc. They not only provide BIM services for the construction industry in Vietnam but they also implement BIM projects for large-scale companies around the world. Besides, these companies also make efforts to spread BIM knowledge and drive BIM applications in the construction industry in Vietnam.

In the area of construction, there are also the leading contractors who use BIM to control works, early detect, and solve clashes between building trades or increase value throughout shared information. Some include CotecCons, Cofico, Vinaconex, BMB Steel, and more. BIM application in this area requires excellent qualifications to follow on-site construction.

In conclusion

With many years of experience in connecting companies in the US, UK, Japan, and Australia, and more with Vietnam BIM talents, we realize that Vietnam BIM engineers are full of the capability and qualifications to implement BIM projects for the national and international market. Vietnam can provide a skilled BIM workforce to the global market at an affordable cost.

As mentioned in the previous article, there are various factors to consider when choosing a BIM partner. With over 5 years of experience in providing BIM services for the client in the US, UK, Japan, Australia, and more, we are here and ready to help you with any BIM project.

If you want to find out more about BIM outsourcing in Vietnam, feel free to let us know. Our BIM experts are happy to help you answer any questions. No commitment required.

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