BIM & VDC Consulting
Existing Condition Documents
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is an innovative approach to managing construction projects that utilizes digital modeling and collaboration tools to improve efficiency, reduce risks, and enhance project outcomes. Specifically, VDC is the management of integrated multi-disciplinary performance models of design-construction projects. These services involve transforming design data into 3D BIM models, optimizing the building design, and facilitating construction scheduling. VDC utilizes cloud-based platforms to facilitate real-time information sharing and collaboration among project stakeholders. This ensures that all team members, including architects, engineers, contractors, and owners, have access to up-to-date project data, which enhances coordination and decision-making.
VDC promotes collaborative workflows by integrating different models and data from various disciplines. This integration helps identify and resolve clashes, streamline construction sequences, and improve overall project efficiency. The process integrates with existing construction management systems through several key mechanisms:
- VDC includes various activities like 3D site scanning, constructibility studies, stakeholder input, and other aspects of project management.
- VDC often incorporates Building Information Modeling (BIM) as part of the broader strategy. VDC integrates with project management software, such as Procore, to manage project documents, schedules, costs, and other critical data. This integration allows real-time access to project information, reducing miscommunication and delays.
- BIM, the specific process of creating and managing digital building models, involves creating detailed 3D digital representations of buildings, which include geometric and non-geometric data. These models are used for design, construction, and operational purposes, allowing seamless integration with other construction management tools.
Coast 2 Coast collaborates with clients to implement BIM processes for various construction projects like hotels, shopping malls, bridges, and residential buildings. Serving as BIM Detailers, our 3D specialists model building elements using parametric 3D BIM authoring software like Revit to generate design and construction models and deliverables for construction documentation and field installation.
MAIN COMPONENTS OF VDC/BIM
Technologies used:
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) software
- 3D modeling and visualization tools
- Project management and collaboration platforms
- Data analytics and performance tracking systems
Process features:
- Creates a digital twin of the project before physical construction begins
- Enables collaboration between diverse teams in a virtual environment
- Allows evaluation of design options, materials, and construction sequencing upfront
- Integrates 3D models with project schedules, costs, and other data
Key Aspects of Coast 2 Coast Consulting Services:
BIM/VDC Detailing provides detailed, accurate information that supports various aspects of the construction process, from design and planning to installation and prefabrication.
- Working with BIM software to create accurate 3D models of building systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural)
- Assisting in the implementation of BIM processes and methodologies within assigned projects
- Transforming design data from CAD to BIM platforms to create detailed project documentation
- Collaborating with other team members to identify and resolve scope clashes in the design phase. Providing modeling time estimates during coordination meetings.
- Participating in modeling efforts for 3D coordination and submitting milestone models in 3D and 2D formats.
STAY AHEAD
Foster innovation and efficiency in project execution.
AEC leaders are promoting the adoption of VDC & BIM to change the way projects are completed.
HOW VDC & BIM BRING VALUE
One of the biggest benefits of 3D modeling is combining information. Existing condition documentation, compliance requirements, and future design plans come together to create visuals that accurately represent the final vision.
Did you know?
Projects utilizing 3D modeling techniques have been shown to finish 20% faster when compared to traditional 2D design methods.
By leveraging these technologies and processes, VDC enhances the integration and functionality of existing construction management systems, leading to improved project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction. Here’s how:
VDC and BIM create a central platform where all project stakeholders can view and share information dynamically. This transparency reduces misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page, leading to more effective communication. The technologies promote collaboration among architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders, leading to better coordination throughout the project lifecycle.
VDC consultants facilitate quick design approvals, strategize scheduling, and manage costs effectively, ensuring projects stay within budget and timelines. By creating 3D BIM models for architecture, structure, and MEP layouts, VDC consultants provide accurate building geometry visualization for designing clash-free models and optimizing construction sequences.
Through 3D modeling, stakeholders can visualize the entire project, enabling better understanding and decision-making. VDC teams can transform initial drawings into meticulously planned project documentation, including precise shop drawings and material take-offs. Using data from BIM and detailing teams, prefabrication departments can assemble components off-site in controlled environments. This level of detail helps installers standardize their processes and ensure consistent work and just-in-time delivery throughout the project.
The detailed models created using BIM and VDC technologies improve the quality of construction projects by allowing for high levels of precision throughout the project lifecycle. Survey teams can use 3D BIM models to create precise layouts, which are then implemented on-site. This eliminates manual measurements, allowing for faster and more accurate installation.
With the adoption of 3D modeling in architecture, project lead times, errors, and costs are minimized. Architects use 3D models to check for and correct errors that may have occurred during the design phase, reducing design flaws and changes required. Revit uses intelligent parametric components that maintain relationships and consistency throughout the model. When changes are made to one element, related elements automatically update, ensuring design integrity. The software also offers automated drawing and schedule generation, saving time and reducing the risk of human error in documentation.
BIM software combines accurate 3D models of a building’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural systems, enabling team members to identify and resolve scope clashes in the design phase. This helps eliminate issues before installation begins, accelerating the project’s pace and improving work quality. One study found that it reduced risks on-site by 34% through improved conflict detection between different models.
The detailed 3D models and simulations enabled by VDC and BIM allow for better safety planning and risk assessment before and during construction. Safety managers can create virtual walkthroughs and simulations to visualize potential hazards and develop safe work procedures in areas that require additional safety measures. The data can be used to plan the placement of safety equipment, such as guardrails, safety nets, and fall protection systems, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the site. By using 4D modeling (which adds the dimension of time to 3D models), teams can plan safer construction sequences and logistics, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by overlapping activities or congested work areas.
The predictive capabilities of BIM, when integrated with VDC methodologies, allow for more accurate budgeting and scheduling. The workflow facilitates early detection of potential design clashes or construction issues, reducing the risk of costly errors and rework. This leads to better resource allocation and waste reduction, ultimately saving time and money.