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This category consists of articles about Scan to BIM in the construction phase

quality assurance/ quality control for scan to bim projects
Scan to BIM

Quality Assurance / Quality Control process for Scan to BIM projects

December 16, 20200

The quality of a Scan to BIM model is one of the most important factors when you choose a BIM services provider. There are no standards to stick to, nor any tools that automate this task. However, at ViBIM, we always prioritize quality over everything. Thus, we build effective Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) process for every Scan to BIM project.

The article aims to offer you a general understanding of the QA/QC process. Besides, we want to share how we conduct the QA/QC process for Scan to BIM projects. Hope that it aids you to control the quality of a BIM model created from point cloud data better. Let’s keep reading to find out more information.

1. Why is Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) needed?

The process of creating a 3D BIM model involves several steps. At each one, there is more likely to appear inadvertent errors. These errors can impact the accuracy of the final model. It’s why we need to conduct the Quality assurance / Quality control (QA/QC) process. It ensures that you get a high-quality BIM model. By undertaking the QA/QC process, you can

  • Eliminate errors, clash issues in the process of modeling;
  • Assure to follow the standards while creating BIM models;
  • Ensure enough geometric elements, the correct position, functionality;
  • Make sure that a BIM model meets the client’s accurate requirements;

2. What is the QA/QC process for Scan to BIM projects?

Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) are two concepts that are often used parallelly. Although they are the same, there are distinct differences between the two concepts.

Quality Assurance (QA) shows you how a BIM model is created from laser-scanned point cloud data. In other words, the QA identifies standards or methods that need to be followed to meet the client’s requirements. The QA is often used to monitor and verify how you are doing is right.

If the QA is a process to create the deliverables, Quality Control (QC) is the process to verify those deliverables. The purpose of the QC process is to identify and fix errors, clash issues between building trades. The QC process makes sure the results of what you’ve done are what your client expected.

In general, the two terms are related to each other but they are different in the purpose. The QA process focuses on preventing errors whereas the QC process aims to determine and address the errors.

3. How does Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) work?

The QA/QC is one of the indispensable parts of our Point Cloud to BIM projects. The QA/QC process is always conducted during the modeling process and before delivering the final BIM models to the clients. We define specific QA/QC processes for both Architectural and MEP disciplines. Let’s get into the juicy details.

QA/QC process for Architectural building system

The QA/QC process for the Architectural building system currently involves key three checks. It includes the quality checking by Naviswork, Revit, and the final step after detaching the file. Checking by Naviswork ensures that the BIM models are enough building elements, in the correct location, and don’t have any clash issues. Besides, checking by Revit makes sure that the BIM models are the correct structure and functionality.

Quality assurance/ quality control for architecture

The QA/QC process will begin once after having already finished the process of modeling. The QA/QC specialist can undertake two processes (Revit, Naviswork) parallel to each other before moving to the final checking step. After having already completed the QA/QC process, we export the file and create a QA/QC checklist to send the client for confirmation.

Curious about the Quality Assurance / Quality Control for Scan to BIM projects?

Our QA/QC specialist is here to help you understand better the QA/QC process for the Architectural and MEP system.



QA/QC process for MEP building system

Like the Architectural discipline, the MEP system has also its own QA/QC process. This involves two main reviews including geometry checking and structural checking. The process assures that the BIM models are enough geometry elements, the correct structure, connection, and don’t have any clashes. The software for the QA/QC process includes Revit and Naviswork. Also, the QA/QC specialist will conduct the final checking step to get a quality BIM model before delivering it to the client. Let’s take a look at our QA/QC process as described below.

quality assurance/ quality control for mep

In Conclusion

Quality is a crucial part of any Scan to BIM project you need to focus on. The QA/QC process ensures that you get a clean, ready-to-use BIM model. If you have any concerns about our QA/QC process, feel free to let us know. Our BIM consultant is here to aid you to answer any questions until you get what you need.

ViBIM is a global provider of Building Information Modeling (BIM) services. We’ve had more than 5 years of experience and expertise in Scan to BIM services, 3D BIM coordination, BIM design, and Dynamo BIM services for clients in the UK, US.

Contact us today to get a quotation for your Scan to BIM projects

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level of detail
Scan to BIM

LOD Querying Checklist – A great assistant for BIM projects

December 9, 20200

Level of Detail (LOD) is not a new term for anyone who has been involving in BIM projects. But it is obvious that there is still a different grasp between the parties in each project. In the previous blog post, LOD and LOI, and everything you need to know about, we help you clarify different types of Level of Detail (LOD) and its benefits

This article provides you with another aspect of this topic. It gives you an overview of distinct differences between the two terms Level of Detail and Level of Development. Besides, you can also know better about different LOD throughout our BIM projects. Finally, there will be an introduction to the Level of Detail (LOD) querying checklist. It is an assistant to determine clients’ requirements before commencement.

1. Level of Detail vs. Level of Development

LOD is sometimes referred to as Level of Detail and Level of Development. In this article, we use LOD to refer to the “Level of Detail”. There are important differences between the two terms. Let’s dig into two terms below:

Level of Detail

The term “Level of Detail” (LOD) demonstrates the degree to which the element model is detailed and specific. It measures the amount of information provided, increases from a symbolic model to an actual model. For example, modeling the steel framing columns:

  • LOD 100: You can model a basic shape like a “box”;
  • LOD 200: Known as a generic model with approximate size, shape, position. You can also add non-graphic information to the model element;
  • LOD 300: As a specific object with accurate size, shape, position, the orientation of main vertical structural elements. You can also add non-graphic information to the model elements like steel materials;
  • LOD 350: As an actual model including base plates, gusset plates, shape, position, and interfaces with other building systems;
  • LOD 400: Including detailing, fabrication, assembly, and installation information. You can also add non-graphic information to the model element;

Level of Development

The term “Level of Development” illustrates the development of the BIM model from the conceptual design stage to the completion of construction. The LOD allows professionals to develop reliable models at different stages of the project lifecycle. Various LOD specifications have been proposed and adopted in the industry. A typical LOD specification includes five levels:

  • LOD 100: Conceptual design. The model can be used to perform whole building types of analysis (volume, building orientation, cost per square foot, etc.);
  • LOD 200: Schematic design or design development. The model helps users analyze the systems by application of generalized performance criteria;
  • LOD 300: Construction documents and shop drawings. The model is suitable for analysis and simulation for detailed elements and systems;
  • LOD 400: Fabrication and assembly. As normal, trade contractor or fabricator uses the model;
  • LOD 500: As-built model. The model is suitable for the maintenance and operations of the facility;

Source: https://www.aia.org/

In short, the two terms are used in the development of BIM models. They show the same model development process but from different perspectives. Level of Detail refers to the geometry of the element while Level of Development refers to both the geometry and the other information. For instance, the application of the model, type of information derived from each level. Architects, engineers, and others can use LOD to clearly communicate with each other without debates.

2. Understanding LOD throughout the BIM projects

Scan to BIM project for Office Building with LOD 300

The project consisted of the Revit modeling for a 9-story office building with LOD 300. We modeled all architectural, structural, and MEP elements i.e. facade, ceiling, framing, duct, pipe, conduit above ½ inches.

Point cloud to BIM services

 

3D BIM Coordination Project for Hospital Building with LOD 300

The hospital project included Revit modeling, MEP coordination of the kitchen area. We later exported shop drawings of the plumbing system for the client as well. Besides, we involved in 360 simulations of the patient room, operating room, and hall. All models were created with LOD 300.

federated model - 3D BIM coordination

 

Scan to BIM project for Laboratory with LOD 300 and 350

The scope of the project comprised Revit modeling of interior Architectural and MEP systems. All models required LOD 300. Strikingly, we needed to model the medical dryer with LOD 350. The pipe system had to be properly named and classified with the label on the pipes.

Point cloud to BIM services

 

Scan to BIM project for Administrative Building with LOD 400

The administrative building project included Revit modeling for Architecture, Structure, and MEP. Besides, our team was responsible for making annotations of plans. Include floor materials, door tags, key plans, drawings, elevation materials. All models required LOD 4 in the UK standard. It’s also the highest quality in the UK.

Scan to BIM for Administrative Building in the UK

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3. LOD Querying Checklist – An assistant to clarify clients’ requirements

Knowing the right clients’ requirements is important. Let’s imagine that your client has asked you to develop a BIM model with “Level of Detail (LOD) 350”. You and your client all know about the concept of LOD 350. But it is still can not ensure that both you and your client are getting the same understanding.

Thus, it’s necessary to clarify the LOD requirements with clients before modeling. Besides, a BIM project can have various LOD needs depending on each area or position. By using the LOD querying checklist, the modeler will define the required LOD of each building element. The client can confirm or feedback on what the modeler provides. In this way, you can avoid confusion or debates between the client and the modeler. The following is an example of a LOD Querying Checklist we’ve used in Scan to BIM projects.

 

level of detail (LOD) querying checklist

When every requirement is clearly defined, the process of modeling gets started. In the process of modeling, the modeler uses the 3D view, the section to review LOD, and use Schedule to analyze LOI requirements.

Final thoughts

Obviously, understanding the required LOD is important in each BIM projects. Using LOD, designers and engineers can work with other stakeholders about the usability and limitations of a model. As an industry standard, the LOD is mostly utilized as an efficient and collaborative communication tool.

ViBIM is a global provider of Building Information Modeling (BIM) services. We’ve had more than 5 years of experience and expertise in Scan to BIM services, 3D BIM coordination, BIM design, and Dynamo BIM services for clients in the UK, US.

Contact us today for further help with implementing your BIM projects

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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

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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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