BIM Methodology

BIM is a working method based on the interaction of different tools that work on an intelligent three-dimensional model, in order to generate and obtain accurate information at any stage of the project. This process is not only used at an architectural level, but extends to other complementary disciplines involved in the project definition (structures, installations, quantity surveyor, construction, property, etc.). BIM is a WORKPLACE tool that integrates all the information of a project from preliminary studies until the end of the useful life of a building and it does it from different approaches.

In MVN Arquitectos we develop our projects in BIM since 2007, when we introduce our Revit workflow software, after which we have been adding more tools that gradually have been completing our work environment. This change in our methodology has allowed us to gain significant advantages over traditional CAD:

 

  • From the first moment you are working in 3D, allowing a high degree of understanding of the project to all participants.
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  • The structure of the software used does not allow drawing errors, increasing reliability of the blueprints.
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  • The power tools operating in BIM optimize development time of projects, and facilitates continuous design review, either upstream or in advanced stages.
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  • By integrating all information into a single model we favor the coordination of different project disciplines (structures, facilities, etc.), anticipating errors to correct them before. This eliminates many uncertainties before starting the work, and thus the risk of cost overruns and deadlines deviation is reduced.
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  • Planning (4D) and measurement control and cost (5D) is very accurate since they start the model itself, also reducing the margin of error of deadlines and the project budget.
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  • You can very easily incorporate the changes that the project suffers during construction, easily obtaining a document “as built” fast, reliable and complete that serves as a basis for further model building management (6D).

To perfect this method we have incorporated different tools that are integrated into the BIM methodology and are complementing the whole process.

    To take the initial data we conduct a survey of precision with HDS technology (High Definition Scanning), obtaining a point cloud file that provides an analysis of the current state with a minimum margin of error. We also use it to make checks of the work performed during the construction process. We use processing point clouds performed through the Faro Scene software and CloudCompare to incorporate or take them as a basis for modeling in Revit.

    The base model around which revolves the whole process is performed also with Autodesk Revit software that provides tools for architectural design, plant engineering, structural engineering and construction, and allows coordination between the different disciplines.

    Thanks to the use of Solibri Model Checker (SMC) we can identify potential failures before starting  the  construction work. With this tool it is possible the advanced detection of interference within our own model and the work of different partners (structures, facilities, etc.). We also analyze the compliance, compare different models and analyze all project documentation before starting to build. This not only represents a great advantage over the project and dispersions that may be in construction, but also helps to reduce future maintenance costs of the building. As a platform based on IFC files (swapfile BIM), it allows us to work with any software professionals using BIM environment.
    The IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) system is a file format and a standard way to define the  representation of CAD graphics related to architecture and construction as real objects in three dimensions. Its main task is to provide architects and engineers with the ability to exchange data between different CAD platforms, including systems planning and cost estimation and any other application related to construction.
    Incorporating BIMcollab helps us manage the documentation between different professionals involved in the projects. Closely linked to Solibri, BIMcollab through the BCF files (BIM Collab Files) allows us to centralize communications regarding changes and / or modifications of the different models. This helps everyone to know where to find information saving time and costs.

    The planning work conducted by incorporating the data model in Navisworks allows us to visualize the duration of a series of events and show the progress of construction activities. In this way we incorporate 4D helping us explore options, solutions to manage and optimize the results before commissioning work information, preventing future problems.

    Cost-It is a companion to Revit Presto to automatically obtain the structured budget from a Revit model by selecting the measurement criteria from different Revit categories. It also allows us to graphically identify elements in Revit Presto budget and backwards, seeping into all elements in the Revit model corresponding to a work unit budget. Budget and model are synchronized so they are constantly updated. This allows us to have a single file of Presto with all information necessary to prepare the budget and supply, as drawings, pictures, model IFC, DWFX, etc. Linking the model with the budget and planning we can offer contractors who need useful information in 3D, 4D and 5D with which not only they can properly assess the work but use it for the entire construction process.