BIM & VDC

The digital world is here to stay and Artelia is at the forefront with competences within all aspects of BIM in an XD world [3D, 4D, 5D, …, XD]. We ensure that the right criteria are applied to models early in the process, smooth project communication through modelling and the efficient use of models and data.

From 3D to XD

A Building Information Model (BIM) is a 3D model that contains information. This may be visual geometry and data describing this geometry. Artelia can create BIM models with all levels of information, and we see a move away from 3D to a future with XD, where several dimensions are continuously integrated into the models.

The value of BIM & VDC
Virtual building models and 3D project design are in themselves an area where we have long been able to reap the many benefits.  This applies especially to distinctive architecture, installation-intensive construction and projects with many interfaces in general.

With 4D, the time aspect has been included. The building rate is visualised, which gives far better opportunities to plan and coordinate the construction process.  There is also 5D, where extracted bills of quantities and price lists are yet another information layer, forming the basis for more exact quantities and prices, thereby leading to significant savings.

In addition, ease of operation can be visualised through common models in which the needs of operational organisations can be illustrated. This might, for example, be the space around the individual work areas and the transport routes for materials and tools in the building.

Concerning sustainability, the models also offer the opportunity to simulate, analyse and optimise the construction project in terms of e.g. energy, indoor climate, ventilation, lighting and noise.

Putting the entire toolbox to use

Artelia deploys a number of BIM and VDC tools. We use several of the major application providers, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D and Tekla. We use multiple programs concurrently, to ensure the best quality and to avoid dependence on software limitations. We can use open source formats and easily manage collaboration with locked preconditions in BIM.

We use standard and visual programming to solve problems. Tools such as Grasshopper and Dynamo are of great help in solving both simple and complex day-to-day problems concerning specific projects and development challenges.  In addition, we continuously train our project managers in using visualisation tools such as Solibri and NavisWorks.

Early control of models is another focus area, to ensure that advisers and other collaborators work together on BIM in the best possible way, and that the models are set up in accordance with the ICT agreement. Consistency checks create value by ensuring that models are accurate and coordinated across professional groups.

We also have good experience from user involvement via virtual reality, whereby, during the very early stages, the future users of the building give their input on the layout of the rooms. This ensures the early reconciliation of expectations and clarification of users’ requirements. In this way, we avoid expensive changes later in the process.

Time, price and quality

For quite some time, BIM and VDC have played a role in construction projects with advanced geometry. In this respect, we have been able to resolve challenges for spectacular structures such as Den Blå Planet (aquarium) and Amager Bakke (waste incineration facility), and for installation-intensive laboratory buildings and hospitals.

Yet we can also see how many of our customers can benefit from the digital tools in more traditional construction projects, when the level of detail in the models becomes so high that it completely replaces the customary 2D drawings. In the production of elements, it is far easier to identify and resolve the problems otherwise faced at the construction site. At the same time, all parties involved can plan the work far more easily when the construction project is visualised in the digital sphere. A high level of detail also leads to more exact volumes and specific prices, which can result in a less expensive project.

Shopping centres are one of our core areas and a good example of a field with dynamic building processes, where the models come into their own. We are aware of the overall framework, but we also design while building, since the layout of the leases is undertaken concurrently. BIM makes it far easier to adapt to changing circumstances, and to visualise solutions to the construction partners, the client and potential tenants.



Services

  • Modelling of buildings and installations, e.g. constructions, plumbing, ventilation, roads and electricity
  • BIM co-ordination of projects
  • Consultancy regarding the use of models as an effective communication tool
  • Virtual collaboration on solution choices for budgeted, operational and sustainable building
  • General control of BIM models according to standards
  • Needs analysis for content of 3D models for optimising timescales/budget
  • Interference detection and consistency check models
  • BIM model auditing, evaluation of model quality per discipline and in terms of engineering, plus buildability and operational friendliness
  • Quantity extraction, 4D (schedule) and 5D (budgetary)
  • 6D (operating), where operational information, building components and levels are coordinated
  • Consultancy regarding models used in connection with sustainability
  • Development of BIM tools, in collaboration with business units
  • Managing model data
  • Dissemination of product, data, simulation and analysis
  • Optimising BIM processes via courses and lectures

Contact us, if you want to know more

BIM

BIM Model Auditing is our way of defining a review of the material prepared for a project at any given time. We do NOT simply provide a 100-page report on interference detection that leaves the customer with the problem. We provide reports that highlight and describe key issues in an intelligible manner. We guide and advise.

Training

Artelia continuously trains its employees in the use of digital tools. Our internal education resource, the Artelia Academy, runs courses in AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, Civil 3D and Power Civil. New employees are always given a BIM introductory course when they join Artelia when relevant.

ICT

We advise on ICT in general and provide ICT management throughout the project design process. Good ICT management helps to ensure optimum use of BIM and compliance with the client’s requirements of the ICT agreement.

”Krystallen” is a BIM success story

Spæncom, Artelia and Langkjær Stålbyg can reflect on their successful cooperation in the digital world. The shared use of BIM models gave A/S Rødovre Centrum a quicker and cheaper high-quality construction.