Mutiny on the BIM'ty

Canam Group completes acquisition of InteliBuild assets

2010-01-20T06:25:00.000+08:00

Tuesday January 19 2010 - News Release

Canam Group Inc (C:CAM)
Shares Issued 45,368,079
Last Close 1/18/2010 $7.47

Mr. Jean Thibodeau reports

CANAM GROUP ACQUIRES ASSETS OF INTELIBUILD LIMITED IN HONG KONG

Technyx, a division of Canam Group Inc. that markets building information modeling (BIM) services and the outsourcing of technical detailing resources, has acquired assets of InteliBuild Ltd. located in Hong Kong as well as the right to use its trademark. The financial terms of the sale were not disclosed.

InteliBuild is well known for its consulting services to clients in Asia, China and the Middle East on construction projects that use BIM and 3D-digital models. In 2008, the company received the BIM Award from Autodesk, a world leader in software design, for its work on the Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal project in Hong Kong.

The newly created entity will now pursue its activities under the name of InteliBuild Technyx Asia, a joint venture in which Canam Group holds the majority of shares.

"Bringing the InteliBuild team on board will help us consolidate our position as a leading technical service provider in the construction sector, while broadening our activities on the Asian market," said Jean Thibodeau, president of Technyx. Technyx claims it will be able to tap into InteliBuild's expertise and use it to offer cutting-edge BIM services to its North American and European customers.

InteliBuild managing director Ronan Collins will be at the helm of the new joint venture. "Our partnership with Technyx will provide financial stability and the managerial expertise needed to ensure our long-term growth and expand our service offerings," he stated.

2010 Canjex Publishing Ltd.

InteliBuild Christmas Wish

2009-12-24T14:04:00.000+08:00

Dear Ronan,

InteliBuild Wins 2009 BIM Fusion Award

2009-12-08T06:18:00.000+08:00

We are delighted to announce that InteliBuild has won the 2009 BIMFusion.com International Building Information Modeling Award

Building Information Modeling is quickly becoming the back bone of the Architectural, Engineering, Construction and Facility Management industries. As the transition progresses and projects are designed and constructed using BIM tools various methodologies and techniques have been developed. The intent of this competition was not to review the appearance or special aspects of a particular design but instead the process and methodologies used to design, coordinate and construct the project both digital and physically.

InteliBuild Ltd for the Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal at the Hong Kong International Airport

This project won in the Digital BIM Tools for Coordinating Building Systems Category. The objective of this category was to illustrate the various tools and methods used in coordinating multi-disciplinary Building Systems.

For additional information on this project and InteliBuild Ltd visit the project at InteliBuild Project Page.

http://intelibuild.com/index.php/cathay-pacific-cargo-terminal

You can also watch a presentation on the project at

http://www.youtube.com/user/INTELIBUILD

Revit Modellers - Asia Projects

2009-06-11T11:32:00.000+08:00

InteliBuild are looking for designers and technicians with experience of using Revit. Particularly Revit MEP.

Are you looking for a new and exciting challenge based in Asia, the world’s fastest growing economy?

There are jobs available in Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Please not, that we are not looking for an out-sourcing service.

If you are interested in more information, please contact me directly at ronan@intelibuild.com

2009-02-19T07:07:00.000+08:00

Revit Integration with Document Management Systems - Do you have experience of sharing Revit Files and accessing information within Revit for Document Control Purposes?

One of our clients, a large management contractor, owns their own file management system. They use it to manage many incoming files including CAD drawings.

On some of the contractors projects, the architect, engineers and sub-contractors must up-load their drawing files to a central data-server. The system will record the uploads and it will also store data from within the dwg files. For example, the meta-data for drawing title, number and revision will be saved as part of the document register.

Some of the functions are similar to Buzzsaw from Autodesk. They are familiar with the product, but they want to continue to use and develop their own data systems.

We are reviewing their procedures and systems as part of a BIM Implementation Review. They want to be able to upload Revit files and Navisworks files to the central server. They want to be able to track changes and revisions in the models and they want to create lists of drawings included within the Revit files.

From a software authoring aspect, is it possible to access the Revit database and save information such as the list of drawings to another database, for example Oracle?

Is it possible to access the Navisworks NWC files and save some data as part of a doc mgmt system, for example the layers imported from the original CAD files?

If you need more information, please let me know by email ronan@intelibuild.com

Thanks

BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING ASIA 2009

2008-11-29T09:01:00.000+08:00

Asia’s first and only definitive BIM event

For the first and only time in Asia, Public and Private sector Developers/Building Owners will meet with Business Leaders in Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Facilities Management to discuss the business case and strategic challenges, and opportunities from the use of BIM in new projects.

Asia’s BIM challenge – understand how BIM will change the AEC industry
This two day intensive conference brings together case studies and global BIM leaders to discuss how BIM is changing the model of designing and constructing buildings. If you’re an owner/developer or in the AEC industry, you need to be aware of how it will affect your organisation and become BIM competent

· Understand how BIM is being used to design and construct buildings faster and more cheaply

· Discover why owners and developers are using BIM on small and large projects

· Learn how BIM is revolutionising the AEC and FM industries

· Understand how to make the transition to BIM

Confirmed speakers include:

· Sam Spata, Senior Vice President, Director, buildingSMART, HOK (USA)

· Inhan KIM, Professor, College of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Kyung-Hee University & Vice Chairman, BuildingSMART Korea

· Dharmali Kusumadi, Vice President - Design Services, Banyan Tree Holdings (Singapore)

· YY Yip, Senior Project Manager, Henderson Land Development Co Ltd (Hong Kong)

· William Lau, Principal, William Lau Architects & Council Member, Singapore Institute of Architects (Singapore)

· Martin Riese, Managing Director, Gehry Technology Asia (Hong Kong)

· Philip Lo, Chief Executive Officer, Lexco Limited (Hong Kong)

· Christopher Pynn, ARUP (Singapore)

· Francis Leung, Head of BIM, WSP Asia (Hong Kong)

· Ronan Collins, Managing Director, InteliBuild (Hong Kong)

· Gio Carino, Architect-Head of CAD/BIM/3D Visualization, Highspire Corporation (The Philippines)

· Dr Evelyn Teo Ai Lin, Assistant Professor, Dept of Building, National University of Singapore

Plus many, many more...

InteliBuild wins 2008 BIM Award

2008-10-07T16:53:00.015+08:00

Michael Yu, PRC Magazine

Click Here to download full article with images.

In the past, building design and construction heavily depended on two-dimensional drawings. However, in recent years, advancements in technology have changed all of this. The process of utilising three-dimensional modeling for property development, commonly referred to as building information modeling (also abbreviated BIM), is beginning to transform the way building designs are created, communicated and constructed. One company that is successfully pioneering the adoption of this highly-efficient and cost-effective process is InteliBuild.

Having completed projects in Hong Kong, Macau, China, South-East Asia, Europe, Australia and the Middle East, InteliBuild has built an impressive portfolio of some of the most high profile and large-scale property developments in the world, including the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center, Qatar National Convention Centre and Guangzhou TV & Sightseeing Tower. Over the past five years, InteliBuild has established a solid track record, working on international landmark projects, ranging from commercial, residential, and institutional developments to infrastructure and transport projects. Its success has enabled InteliBuild to become one of the leading BIM providers in the region.

Ronan Collins, (e-mail) Managing Director of InteliBuild, describes the company’s product as a “virtual building” in which there are several key direct and indirect benefits for property development companies, designers and contractors. Direct benefits include the ability to foresee problems that may arise during construction. The 3D digital model provides a highly accurate view of the entire project in which physical aspects of the building can be assessed for fit. “With the technology, you can reduce the number of problems in a design so you can actually identify the area where there are design co-ordination issues,” according to Collins. “We look at all the different design components and check whether they are actually fitting into the building or whether there are design discrepancies.” For example, the model may help to understand layout of mechanical systems and whether ducts and pipes can connect into the appropriate equipment. “You can fix every clash so when you’re building, you’re only building one time,” says Collins. “If you’re not having to rebuild anything, you’re not having to spend any extra money. You can save 5% to 10% of the construction costs simply from managing the construction process more effectively.”

By saving companies at least 5% on construction costs, the argument for BIM is compelling, especially with large-scale developments.

Indirect benefits relate to the process of communicating building plans to various parties involved. “When clients can see and understand where the doors are, where the escalators are, they will make key decisions earlier. You don’t have to make allowances for design changes in the construction budget,” says Collins. The contractor can deliver the project on time or even earlier than expected and this can translate into revenues. For example, if a building can be completed 10 days ahead of schedule, that building can potentially collect 10 days additional commercial rents. In addition, the accuracy of the 3D models reduces insurances, overheads and claims.

InteliBuild’s model is also able to directly link into construction programs, which enables tight integration of the design and construction efforts and contractors can see how to actually build a building with detail as specific as how the building phases will look. Facilitating the communication between the design team and the construction team enhances the efficiency of the whole project while minimising the possibility of misunderstandings and miscommunication.

InteliBuild’s team consists of industry professionals with years of practical experience in architecture, multi-disciplinary engineering design and construction management as well as in 3D technologies, such as animation. With its depth of experience, InteliBuild is able to effectively work alongside a client’s architectural design team and construction team to insure a smooth running of the BIM process from beginning to end.

Beyond building construction, InteliBuild 3D models provide insight into building operations never seen before. Sustainability of a property can be analysed in such a way that ongoing operating revenues and costs can be estimated for a building even before construction has commenced. For example, by specifying a number of known parameters into the Green BIM model, energy costs can be estimated for each room in a building based on variables, such as the type of building and size of rooms. Analysis such as this can provide essential financial information to decision-makers at the highest level. “We can calculate the annual energy use of a building for different design options thus enabling clients to assess the sustainability of a proposed layout.”

Last month, due to their achievements in this innovative process, InteliBuild was awarded the 2008 BIM Award by Autodesk for their work on the Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal project. This massive multi-billion dollar project aimed to showcase and strengthen the position of the Hong Kong International Airport as a leading air cargo and logistics hub. The complex nature of the project demanded precise co ordination of the building structure, architecture and building services systems, which only the BIM methodologies and processes developed by InteliBuild could deliver. It’s very exciting for us. We’re getting recognised for what we’ve been doing for more than two years on this project,” says Collins.

The Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal project is an example of how BIM takes an extraordinary amount of data and produces an accurate and useful model with which key decisions can be made. “This job is probably the biggest adoption of the technology in a single contract. We have a complete model of all of the cargo systems, all of the mechanical systems, all of the structural systems, all of the architectural systems,” says Collins. “We’ve actually got models of the operational environment required by the client. We have simulated truck maneuvers within a certain space, so that we don’t put fire hoses, sprinkler heads or ventilation ducts in the way.”

Although the adoption of BIM in Asia is slightly behind that of North America and Europe, Collins believes that this will change in the coming years. He believes that, similar to what has happened in other industries, Asia will catch up very quickly in its adoption of BIM. “In Hong Kong, the outlook is bright, certainly for the next three to five years,” says Collins. Prominent Hong Kong projects that InteliBuild has provided BIM services include Phase 3 of the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center, the KCRC Kowloon Southern Link and the enhancement of the baggage handling services at the Hong Kong International Airport. Nearby Singapore is the company’s next target market. “We’re looking at Singapore as our next consultancy market. Singapore’s got some amazing projects for the next five years, similar in scale to Hong Kong,” says Collins.

In addition, InteliBuild already has interests in the Philippines and Malaysia. In the Middle East, InteliBuild has also been active on major construction projects. For the Qatar National Convention Centre, the largest facility of its kind in the Middle East, InteliBuild are providing services that facilitate the co-ordination of the complex building services with the structural steel frame and architectural finishes. Another project involved the Al Maha Five Star Sofitel Hotel in Qatar, in which InteliBuild provided 3D models to identify clashes and conflicts, allowing designers and engineers to revise and co-ordinate the building systems as necessary.

In China, InteliBuild has developed a presence by providing expert consultancy services to developers. Recently, InteliBuild was commissioned to produce an animation to show the buildability of the Guangzhou TV & Sightseeing Tower, a landmark that aims to be fully operational for the 2010 Asian Games.

As companies in the property and construction sector warm up to the application of technology and recognize the need for greater efficiency and cost savings, companies such as InteliBuild will benefit. As a pioneer of BIM in the region, InteliBuild is well on its way to becoming a leader in this innovative field.

CATHAY PACIFIC Endorsement

Ian Hunt, Project Director, Cathay Pacific Cargo

Planning for Cathay Pacific’s Air Cargo Terminal began in 2005. We recognised at an early stage that for this project to be successful required clear early identification of operational methods translating into material handling systems that achieve throughput and diversity requirements. We realised that only having reached this stage could we begin to plan the layout of the Terminal Building and once we began the design process, accurate definition of the project in three dimensions became a proirity for CX and its design team.

At the outset a number of materials handling systems (MHS) conceptual configurations were considered. It quickly became apparent that one of these offered optimal throughput performance and this was selected for further design development. It was some months before a structural grid was fixed and the building design began to wrap itself around the MHS.

At HKIA Design Stage C InteliBuild produced their first 3-D model of the Terminal. This incorporated MHS layouts in the form of spatial envelopes, structural and MEP zones. The model at this stage of development enabled CX’s cargo team to understand the design and to further develop MHS and other operational interfaces.

As the design developed so the 3-D model evolved to incorporate greater detail and clash analysis began to be rigorously undertaken. At Stage D all structural members, MHS layouts (based on generic component dimensions) and MEP zoning were all modelled. In 2007 MHS was tendered and it was a tender condition that all bidders must submit a 3-D model of layouts incorporating their own component dimensions. MHS compatibility with the building could be assessed with the tenders and this was a considerable factor in our tender evaluation.

Siemens were awarded the MHS contract in December 2007 and since then they have continued to finalise their 3-D model. InteliBuild have simultaneously continued developing the overall BIM model so that at the time of Main Contract award [October 2008] the design will be developed to the level of combined service drawings and with an integrated design that is coordinated substantially de-clashed.

We expect that the benefits of 3-D modelling will enable fast and accurate construction, installation and commissioning. We are working to a tight programme that would probably be unachievable without such a design tool. Upon award the main contractor will take responsibility for the BIM to ensure that all sub-contractor designed elements are right first time and fully integrated into the Terminal. We expect that opportunities for modularisation and pre-assembly of installed components can be maximised using BIM, further enhancing speed and accuracy of installation and providing cost savings to CX. In addition, we expect our contractor to use BIM as a planning tool to test and develop complex multi-discipline installation sequences.

We believe that 3D design is an essential tool for a project such as ours. Its introduction has required a commitment from designers and contractors and at times we have had to insist that sliding back to 2-D methods is just not acceptable. Now all parties are able to see the benefits of BIM and I believe that for most of us there is no going back.

We are delighted that InteliBuild were winners in the 2008 BIM awards. This is well deserved for their pivotal role in helping us to define this complex and technically demanding project.

2008-08-19T22:53:00.006+08:00

InteliBuild - August 2008 E-NEWS

InteliBuild recently launched a new BIM Seminar series. If you would like to learn more about Building Information Modelling, please let us know. All the details are listed below.

Our clients include developers, architects, engineers and contractors and they are all seeking environmentally sustainable ways to reduce the carbon footprint of their buildings. We are continuing our research and development into how we can link BIM models to energy analysis software to produce integrated design tools for sustainable buildings.

At the GreenBuild Asia 2008 conference in Hong Kong, our Managing Director presented a paper on Green BIM. He was later interviewed on Bloomberg Live in Hong Kong. You can download a copy of the presentation here and watch Ronan's interview on YouTube.

And last, but certainly not least, InteliBuild have been nominated for an award at the 2008 BIM Awards in Hong Kong. We have been selected as one of five award winners for our work on the Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal Project with Meinhardt and Aedas. A detailed case study on the Cargo Terminal BIM model is available at www.intelibuild.com

The Power of BIM – Vision to Reality

The awards are organized by Autodesk to acknowledge building industry professionals and educators in Hong Kong who are helping to drive transformation of the building and construction industry through innovation with BIM technology.

The winners are selected for a range of accomplishments, including innovative use of BIM in building design decisions,

sustainable design decisions and business practice transformation in their local and international construction projects.

This year, the five awarded companies are:

- HK Science and Technology Parks Corporation

- InteliBuild

- Melco Crown Entertainment Limited

- MTR Corporation Limited

- WSP Hong Kong Limited

To show our highest appreciation, Autodesk are hosting an award presentation cocktail reception:

Date: 28th August 2008

Time: 6:30pm – 7:30pm (Cocktail Reception) /

7:30pm – 9:00pm (Award Presentation)

Venue: Grand Ballroom, Lower Lobby, Conrad Hotel, HK

If you would like to attend the cocktail reception, please contact Sharon Chan at Autodesk at +852 2598 1098 to reserve your place.

InteliBuild BIM Seminar Series

The InteliBuild BIM seminar will be is a technical presentation designed to inform you and your team about the benefits of Building Information Modelling and includes practical examples of how to specify and manage the BIM process during the design and construction phases of a project.

The BIM Seminar will include the following topics;

+ Building Information Modelling process overview

+ How architects, structural engineers and building services engineers collaborate using the BIM process to improve design integration and drawing production

+ Automated multi-disciplinary co-ordination & clash analysis systems

+ 4D Virtual Construction Planning for contractors

+ Project Case Studies

+ Lessons Learned from BIM projects in Hong Kong, Macau & The Middle East

+ Environmental and Commercial benefits of BIM

We will provide practical knowledge and examples of the benefits of using BIM in particular relating to time and cost savings. The seminar will be presented by Ir. Ronan Collins who is currently the BIM Manager for the Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal development.

InteliBuild Services

InteliBuild specialise in BIM and 3D CAD consultancy. On our new site you'll find information about Building Information Modelling, 3D Design Validation, 4D Virtual Construction and you'll find some excellent examples of our previous animations and rendered images.

We provide consultancy services on how to specify BIM, how to plan the implementation of 3D CAD design validation on projects and we provide a team of BIM Project Managers, 3D Modellers and animators. Our specialised team are always available to provide advice on BIM processes, buildability assessments, co-ordinated drawing production, 4D virtual construction simulation and fully detailed architectural presentations.

If you would like to learn more about our services or have a specific question about a particular project, please email our Business Development Manager

Supporting The Lighthouse Club

As members of The Lighthouse Club, InteliBuild promote fellowship and networking within the construction industry. We participate in fund raising to support those less fortunate people who have been adversely affected by an accident related to construction.

To join the club or learn about future events click here

Green BIM'ty

2008-07-31T16:41:00.000+08:00

BIM continues to broaden it's reach. And now two seemingly different design tools are merging to form a complete suite of building analysis and design tools! Is Green BIM the next evolution?

How will common BIM tools like Revit interact with energy analysis software such as IES? Who's going to know how to use the tools effectively?

During my preparation for a presentation at the GreenBuild Asia 2008 conference I read about integrated solar panels, both for hot water generation and the more common PV (photovolatic) panels used to generate electricity. I also did some research on urban wind generation, rain harvesting systems and my brother Darragh gave me some useful info on geothermal technology.

The research all pointed to a real problem, these systems are only bandaids for energy over-use and clever marketing tools. Unless we, the building design community, design energy efficient buildings with integrated solar shading, effective ventilation and smart building management systems, I think we are all kidding ourselves!

As more and more Architects start to use Revit, ArchiCAD, Triforma and other BIM modelling tools it is certainly quicker and easier for building services engineers and other specialists to provide sustainable design advice. They can easily see and understand the architects design and can input ideas and knowledge at a very early phase in the design process.

I'm an engineer and we prefer to use precise analytical tools. Software such as IES can be used to calculate exact solar gain inside a building, lux levels for natural and electric lighting, sun shade paths around buildings and a lot more. The software can determine the total power consumption for a building. Up until very recently this analysis was separate from the normal design process.

Now an Architect can create a building form, add facade design information and performance characteristics, include solar shading devices and then within Revit, calculate the solar gain for each day of the year within the digital building. The heating and cooling calculations can automatically include this data to determine the thermal loads, duct sizes, equipment specifications etc.

We, the design community, have the necessary tools to determine the most energy efficient design for a building, assess numerous different options, configurations and materials. We can calculate the energy consumption per square metre per annum and advise our clients how much energy their buildings will consume and inform them about many tons of carbon dioxide they will produce.

So, here's the real issue....

Do clients know that architects and engineers have access to these tools?

Do clients and architects REALLY know how to calculate the energy consumption for a building?

Do architects and engineers know how to use these different software applications to create co-ordinated integrated designs with multi-discipline design input?

Our team at InteliBuild are doing research on the software tools and we are beginning to work closely with engineers and other specialists who know how to use Energy Analysis software.

Do you know of a project that we could use for this Green BIM research initiative?

Autodesk and Bentley to Advance AEC Software Interoperability

2008-07-11T07:06:00.000+08:00

Autodesk and Bentley to Advance AEC Software Interoperability

By Bentley Systems and Autodesk

At a joint press conference, Autodesk, Inc. and Bentley Systems, Incorporated, two of the leading providers of design and infrastructure software, announced an agreement to expand interoperability between their portfolios of architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) software. Autodesk and Bentley will exchange software libraries, including Autodesk RealDWG, to improve the ability to read and write the companies’ respective DWG and DGN formats in mixed environments with greater fidelity. In addition, the two companies will facilitate work process interoperability between their AEC applications through supporting the reciprocal use of available Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). With this agreement, the companies aim to improve AEC work flows by enabling broader reuse of information generated during the design, construction, and operation of buildings and infrastructure, and by enhancing the ability of project teams to choose among multiple software sources.

Interoperability has emerged as a critical issue for users of design and engineering software. A 2004 study by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology found that users bear direct costs of almost $16 billion annually from time wasted due to inadequate AEC software interoperability. By virtue of this agreement, and the interoperable offerings that it will enable, AEC firms will be free to employ software tools of choice from either Autodesk or Bentley to accept or submit either DWG or DGN files. By improving fidelity of work shared between the two file formats, users will be able to focus on being creative and getting work done, rather than being constrained by file-compatibility considerations.

Through supporting the reciprocal use of their available APIs, Autodesk and Bentley will enable AEC project teams to combine products from both providers within integrated workflows. For instance, a design team could use a mixture of Autodesk and Bentley software, such as Autodesk’s Revit platform and Bentley’s STAAD and RAM structural products, and simulate and analyze their designs or manage project information using Autodesk NavisWorks software or Bentley’s ProjectWise.

Norbert Young, FAIA, president of McGraw-Hill Construction and former chairman of the International Alliance for Interoperability in North America, said, “This groundbreaking agreement directly addresses many of the critical issues detailed in the October 2007 McGraw-Hill Construction study on interoperability in the construction industry (http://construction.ecnext.com/mcgraw_hill/includes/SMRI.pdf). I applaud both companies for their foresight and leadership.”

Added Patrick MacLeamy, FAIA, CEO of global architectural firm HOK and a founder and current chairman of the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI), “As a longtime advocate of interoperability, I welcome this agreement as an important step toward enabling AEC information to be more broadly shared, increasing the value of BIM to our clients.”

“Autodesk recognizes that many customers use our products in mixed environments, and this agreement will help to better support these firms,” said Jay Bhatt, senior vice president, Autodesk AEC Solutions. “As part of our commitment to provide technology that improves productivity and efficiency across the AEC industry, we’re pleased to enter into this agreement with Bentley Systems – Autodesk’s largest development partner – and together help customers design, build, operate, and maintain the world’s infrastructure.”

“Bentley and Autodesk share a goal of enabling the creation and operations of better-performing infrastructure,” said Greg Bentley, CEO of Bentley Systems. “Realizing that our mutual users bear unnecessary costs resulting from lack of interoperability, we came together to finally make information reuse the norm. By raising its sights beyond file format issues, the resource-constrained AEC community can better serve us all.”

From blueprint to database - A BIM Consultants Perspective

2008-06-21T00:00:00.000+08:00

From blueprint to database
The Economist

http://www.economist.com/science/tq/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11482536

Thank You The Economist. It's great to see BIM in the business press.

In the positive spirit of the article, I'd like to share some of my thoughts on this editorial piece and raise some important questions about the adoption of BIM.

In the recent article in The Economist Technology Quarterly, the essential principles of BIM are identified and some good examples of projects using the technology are highlighted.

"Building Information Modelling (BIM) ... Involves representing a building as a full, three-dimensional computer model (3D model), with an associated database"

After reading the article, I realised there were two important issues close to my heart that were not included. The first is the management of the BIM process and the second is the importance of the contractor in using BIM for virtual construction.

In recent times I've started to recognise that there is a potential risk to the successful adoption of BIM on projects if the BIM roles and responsibilities of the Architect, Engineers and Contractor are not clearly defined and if the BIM process is not effectively managed throughout the design and construction process.

"An immediate advantage of this approach is that the software can identify any mistakes within a design"

This is only true if all of the designers are engaged in the BIM process and the data structures, model naming conventions and analysis procedures for identifying clashes in the BIM model are defined and maintained. The software is not automated and like all applications, will only do what the users instruct.

It is technically possible. But who checks if a structural beam is in the same place as an air vent? Maybe it's not the Architect's problem. Can the beam be moved? Is the air vent in the exact location required and can it be relocated? Is the Contractor responsible for this co-ordination? Unless the specification for the BIM adresses these key issues, then the full potential of BIM will not be realised.

The article goes on to elude to how the designers can leverage the BIM models.

"Improve the communication and co-ordination between architects and engineers"

"Calculate the quantities of materials needed, and hence construction cost"

"Finite-element analysis can determine its structural properties"

"The building's energy consumption, lighting, heat flow, acoustics and regulatory compliance" can all be determined.

And yes, that is all technically possible. BUT here's the health warning. If these analyses are not planned at the outset it is mission impossible to retrofit them to a BIM digital prototype of a building.

So, should a specialised experienced BIM consultant be engaged to leverage this new and emerging technology on a building project? I believe, that BIM Managers and BIM Consultants have a key role to play in assisting clients, designers and contractors in gaining the maximum benefits from the BIM process.

And then, what about the people who know how to build these wonderfully complex buildings? This article suggests that only "a handful of pioneering architects" have used BIM.

This is somewhat mis-leading. The fastest adopters of this technology are the contractors. They know that detailed 3D CAD models can identify the design errors that "often become apparent only after construction has begun". The builders are using BIM to find the design inconsistencies that "account for 2% of a typical construction budget and clashes for up to 5%". And they've been doing it for years.

Beyond analysising the design documents they are able to link the 3D models to the planned construction programme to generate 4D Virtual Construction simulations. Some of our best clients know how to leverage this technology during the tender and planning stages of a project.

When the BIM models created by the designers are assembled in recognition of how the building will be erected, then even more value and savings can be accrued from the BIM process. Until the Architects and Engineers are instructed to issue their BIM models to the contractors, the true values of BIM will remain untapped. There are ways to over-come legitimate and also unfounded reasons as to why designers will not issue 3D files to the contractors.

Dr. Chuck Eastman, and many other champions of the benefits of BIM share my dream that BIM will be widely adopted in our industry. I look forward to that day when "there will be no drawings and 'back to the drawing board' will just become an historic phrase"

However, in order to live the dream, I believe that BIM consultants and the contractors have a pivotal role to play in the BIM process in collaboration with the Architects and Engineers.

Thank You Cian for sharing this article with me!

Metrics to assess the benefits of Building Information Modelling

2008-06-12T07:49:00.000+08:00

http://www.linkedin.com/answers/business-operations/project-management/OPS_PRJ/249619-422785

Where can I find examples of projects using BIM for collaboration with metrics to assess the benefits of Building Information Modelling?

BIM - Building Information Modelling is a very broad description of the use of 3D CAD technologies on construction projects. The principle idea is that different design consultants can collaborate digitally and share design information easily. I am looking for information on building projects that were designed with linked Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical and Piping models.

An example would be an Architect using Revit or Archicad, a structural engineer using Triforma, Fastrak or Orion and a building services engineer using Autodesk MEP or PDS. Are all the models combined in Navisworks or another model checker such as Solibri?

We are working on a number of these types of projects and we would like to use suitable metrics to assess the benefits of fully co-ordinated BIM Building Information Models.

We dont want to re-invent the wheel and we believe the data from our ongoing projects would be beneficial to clients, architects, engineers and contractors considering using BIM.

New InteliBuild Website

2008-06-10T12:39:00.001+08:00


InteliBuild Website Launch
Dear All, We are excited to formally announce the launch of our new website. InteliBuild specialise in BIM and 3D CAD consultancy. On our new site you’ll find information about Building Information Modelling, 3D Design Validation, 4D Virtual Construction and you’ll find some excellent examples of our previous animations and rendered images. Some of our recent projects include; Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal Qatar National Convention Centre Drainage Services, Tsuen Wan Tunnel New Doha International Airport Canbuild Precast Facade Systems MTR West Kowloon Station We provide consultancy services on how to specify BIM, how to plan the implementation of 3D CAD design validation on projects and we provide a team of BIM Project Managers, 3D Modellers and animators. Our specialised team are always available to provide advice on BIM processes, buildability assessments, co-ordinated drawing production, 4D virtual construction simulation and fully detailed architectural presentations. We are confident that you will find our new website interesting, informative and thought provoking. If you would like to learn more about our services or have a specific question about a particular project, please email us at info@intelibuild.com Best Regards, The InteliBuild Team

Buildability Demonstration
For the new 610m high Guangzhou TV Tower the team at InteliBuild linked the Arup structural steel model to a planned programme sequence to demonstrate how this very tall building would be constructed. The construction simulation shows how the steelwork will be erected using self climbing cranes. The purpose is to prove the buildability of the tower and to demonstrate the difficulties of the skyscraper construction process.
Virtual Construction
The team at Canbuild have developed an innovative way to build high rise apartments. The exterior facade of the Fosters Designed Apartments at Bel-Air No.8 in Cyberport comprises of precast concrete with acid washed ribbons, balcony cladding, and vertical sunshades to screen open areas of the Towers. The window wall and balconies feature curved glass to compliment the contour of the pre cast facade. Our team created a 4 Day floor cycle animation to illustrate the construction sequence for this new system currently being erected on site.
Architectural Animation
West Kowloon Station will be the MTR’s new station on the Kowloon Southern Link when it opens later next year. As part of the design review process, InteliBuild produced a fully detailed architectural walk through animation for the Link 200 JV and Aedas to illustrate the station design and highlight all of the underground station signage.
BIM Presentation – Autodesk Seminar
Ir. Ronan Collins recently demonstrated how BIM is being used on the new Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal for design co-ordination and drawing production. Although, not a very good quality video, this presentation gives you some idea of the complexities of the very large project. To arrange a full demonstration at your office please contact ronan@intelibuild.com
Supporting The Lighthouse Club

As Social Secretary of The Lighthouse Club in Hong Kong, Ronan assists in the promotion of networking within the construction industry and participates in fund raising to support those less fortunate people who have been adversely affected by an accident related to construction in Asia. To join the club or learn about future events click here
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InteliBuild Limited 26F North Point Asia-Pacific Commercial Centre, 10 North Point Road, Hong Kong T +852 8102 7466 E info@intelibuild.com

"Who" is BIM ?

2008-01-26T08:22:00.000+08:00

How do I start to describe an interesting moment on the road to BIM...

It's a total realisation of the continual need to educate our clients and customers, some of whom have never heard of BIM.

To some of our clients, those who are developers and architects, BIM means co-ordinated consistent sets of design drawings all produced from a single database such as Revit, ArchiCad, Triforma, ADT or other similar applications.

To the engineers, BIM might mean linking structural analysis models from a design application and then being able to issue them to the architect for co-ordination and mutual understanding. For the Building Services engineers they can now link energy analysis applications to the design of mechanical and electrical systems.

And to enlightened contractors, BIM usually involves a detailed 3D CAD model which identifies clashes between structural, architectural, building services and other systems. The models may have been provided by the design consultants but in most cases the contractor builds their own BIM models in-house or by engaging a BIM Consultant such as InteliBuild, VBL or Tecton.

So when someone who hasn't heard of "Building Information Modelling" it is very likely they will be puzzled by the BIM acronym. We commonly hear "what is B I M ??"

As BIM means different things to different people in the construction life-cycle, the answer is often a lot longer than the person posing it would have expected.

But how do you answer "WHO is Bim ?"

Kowloon Southern Link

2007-08-31T15:47:00.001+08:00

http://www.leightonasia.com/v4/default.asp?lid=1&sec=Videos&id=88

This is the original KCRC KSL Link 200 JV tender presentation for the Kowloon Southern Links. It illustrates how the TBM operates in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Clients specify BIM for CSD production

2007-08-28T06:47:00.000+08:00

It's only been a few weeks since I lasted posted something to our BIM insights. We have been very busy bidding for new projects and in that time we have noticed some interesting developments amongst clients and developers.

In Hong Kong and Asia owners are specifying 3D CAD for multi-disciplinary co-ordination and they are requesting the contractor to use this brilliant technology to do combined services drawings (csd's) at the construction stage using 2D design drawings.

In my opinion, this is a double edged sword at this stage in the infancy of BIM.

On the positive side, the contractor is identifying co-ordination issues in the design documents before they build anything. This is great if they have sufficient time to carry out the 3D modelling, clash analysis and resolution. This will require full co-operation from the designers and without careful management could be an adversial approach.

But, is it too late?

The negative side of this strategy is that the design consultants are not engaging in or using BIM for their design co-ordination. In theory, Architects and Engineers produce fully considered, detailed and co-ordinated building designs before the contractor commences work.

In reality, their fees are too low to provide sufficient skilled resources and the time allowed is squeezed to a very short period. All too frequently the minimum amount of work is done in the early scheme and tender design stages and the contractor is left to fix the clashes and resolve missing information.

If clients only specify the use of BIM at the construction phase, a lot of the real value in the technology has already been lost. It is a welcome step forward and more has to be done to convince clients, architects and engineers to adopt BIM as early as possible.

We advocate the use of 3D CAD BIM models at all stages of a project. The earlier the process starts the greater the savings for everyone involved.

Autocad tips and Tricks vol. 1

2007-08-01T19:26:00.000+08:00

This list of smart tricks was put together by my colleague, Rhoel Maliksi. Some of them are very clever and worth remembering. I like the idea about attaching sound clips to drawings !!

Globally Change Attribute text size

You have scaled your drawing for printing and now you want to scale your block attributes up or down (bigger/smaller).

Use the REFEDIT or BEDIT command (editor) on your blocks to modify the text size of their attributes. Save the block editor changes. Then use ATTSYNC to perform the changes on all existing block references and resize the texts. You can also use the BATTMAN command (with the Sync option) or the old ATTREDEF.

How to Add an attribute to a block used in a drawing?

You need to add another attribute to a block which is already referenced (inserted) in a drawing.

First redefine your block (e.g. with REFEDIT) and add the new attribute to its definition. Refsave the changed definition. Use the BATTMAN command Synchronize to synchronize the original attribute contents of the block references. You can also use the ATTSYNC command.

BOM in Plain Autocad

Also in plain AutoCAD (without any add-ons or vertical flavours) you can use (since the version 2006) the bill-of-materials (parts- or block-list) functionality. Use the attribute extraction tool - EATTEXT.

This command creates a table containing information about the individual references of selected blocks. This table (table object inserted in the drawing) is automatically updated on any change in the drawing (the blocks).

For older AutoCAD versions or LT you can use e.g. Excellink

Making 3D Drawing files smaller

By setting the SOLIDHIST variable to 0 you can make your DWG files (containing edited 3D solids) a bit shorter.

In a default setting, AutoCAD saves the editing history of 3D solids - i.e. the individual creator-objects (intersection, subtract...) for easier later re-editing. If you don't need this history, you can disable it using SOLIDHIST, with the BREP command or through the "History" setting in the Properties window (Ctrl+1).

Attaching a Voice Message to an Autocad Drawing

You can easily attach an audio note (comment, sound) to your AutoCAD drawing.

Take an existing file in an audio format - WAV, MP3, MID, M4A, etc., drag it with your mouse from Windows Explorer (or other file manager) to an arbitrary place in your AutoCAD drawing.

You can also use the INSERTOBJ command to insert the audio recorded OLE object.

The audio recording can be subsequently replayed by double-clicking on the OLE2 object icon (usually a loud-speaker)

Multi Discipline Reviteers

2007-08-01T07:52:00.000+08:00

This is yet another useful article from Lachmi at AEC Bytes.

Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration in Revit
by Bill Knittle, Synergis Design Applications Engineer, Building Solutions

The tutorial provides some guidelines on how to undertake effective multi-disciplinary collaboration in Revit using tools such as Copy/Monitor, Coordination Monitor and Interference Check and it is well worth reading if you are managing multiple discipline models.

http://www.aecbytes.com/tipsandtricks/2007/issue20-revit.html

BIM Job Opportunities

2007-07-31T22:39:00.001+08:00

We're looking for experienced Architects, Structural Engineers and Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing & Drainage and Fire Services Engineers to join our team in Hong Kong.

Previous experience of Revit, ADT, ABS, CAD or other 3D CAD application would be an advantage but is not a must. A good knowledge of building design and co-ordination is a must.

This is an exciting opportunity for experienced building designers to take on project leadership roles with our clients on large commercial projects all over Asia.

You will liaise with our existing clients, agree details relating to BIM projects and work with our team of 3D CAD modellers and designers to ensure all of our projects are completed on time and to the highest quality.

If you know anyone who might be interested in working on BIM projects in Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Mainland China and as far away as Australia, please ask them to contact us for more details !!

Multi-Discipline Clash Analysis

2007-07-31T21:58:00.000+08:00

When you use multiple 3D files from different consultants or for different disciplines, the 3D CAD models for each discipline can be crossed checked for clashes in accordance with the matrix in the image (above/below, not sure). We use Navisworks as it is the easily one of the best clash detection applications.

At the start of the project the design managers will need to agree suitable tolerances with all of the consultants for each design stage for the project. ** indicates the tolerance to be checked in millimetres.

“C” indicates a clearance check where clear space required is checked. This can be used to account for insulation on pipes and ducts or for collars on pipes which are not always modelled.

“H” indicates a hard clash check and indicates the acceptable interference between the two objects. For example, it may be acceptable at scheme design stage for pipes and ducts to clash with each other within a reasonable tolerance.

This matrix is provided as guide which hopefully is useful, although some of you are thinking. "doh, that's obvious !!". However, have you established a BIM Guide or Standard for your project and does it include this level of planning ?

BIM Lessons Learned

2007-07-23T10:02:00.000+08:00

When we google "BIM", Revit, Triforma, 3D Co-ordination and other key phrases related to BIM Managers and BIM Consultants we always find success stories which is great.

Having been involved in planning and setting up multi-discipline BIM projects using ABS, ADT, Revit, AutoCAD 3D and our favourite Navisworks we learned many valuable lessons. Some of them we have learned through trial and error, some from failures of particular processes or strategies and most from practical implementation experience.

This is an evolutionary list and I'll add to it as we learn more BIM tricks & tips

Units
All software applications must be installed with default metric units and all units must be mm. When 2D drawings from design consultants and contractors are used to model from or check against, they must be checked to ensure the units and drawing scales are correct. Any errors will need to be notified to the relevant provider to ensure the necessary corrections are made.

Co-ordinates
A single co-ordinate and grid line system must be established and agreed. Ideally, the origin point for the model should be local to the building and at the bottom left or south west corner of the building on plan.

Setting out geometry
There must be only 1 set of models and or drawings which are referred to for all setting out. For example, for curved shells, the architect and engineers will decide the setting out language and the dedicated geometry specialist will develop the geometry based on the agreed criteria. The information and setting out data will be available to everyone from a centralised and controlled location. This will ensure the structural engineers can set out their steelwork and concrete structures correctly.

Design Team Engagement
How does each member of the design team interact with and use the BIM models?

Drawing Production Management

Clash resolution procedures

Scope of work definition

Client Involvement

Sub-contractor liaison

And there are many more interesting topics.

What are your critical issues for your BIM?

Posted by Ronan Collins

BIM Manager

BIM Managers - Symphony Conductors or Solo Artists

2007-06-20T17:16:00.000+08:00

Building Information Modelling is specified by clients and developers as they are aware of the benefits and savings which can be derived from co-ordinated 3D models. In order to fully realise the benefits from the model during the scheme design, detailed design, construction and operation and maintenance of the building project, an independent BIM Manager should be appointed by the client.

The primary issue for our industry is "who?" and of course how will they ensure collaboration with all the other stake holders?

Do you appoint the Architect as the BIM Manager? Some people would say so and back it up with the theory that the Architect is responsible for designing the building and should orchistrate the co-ordination with the other design professionals.

Maybe the Structural Engineer could do it as typically they have good experience of generating 3D models for analysis. In addition, the majority of co-ordination required for Building Services (MEP) is between the structural, mechanical, electrical, P&D and fire services engineers. Provided they work within the risers and ceiling voids provided by the architect, there will be less re-working on-site and as a result a direct reduction in construction waste.

Then in Hong Kong, it is common for the contractors to co-ordinate services and builders work with agreement from the Architect and Engineers. But if the contractor is not appointed at the early stage of the design process, it is often too late to implement a full BIM. There are proven benefits to contractors in producing 3D models only at construction stage but the clients and developers don't necessarily reap any rewards.

So a few possible candidates but no immediately obvious suitors yet.

Then of course you have to evaluate the experience and skills of your potential BIM Manager. Have they managed a BIM project before? Which software platforms are they familiar with? Do they understand the importance of defining BIM Project Standards such as units, co-ordinate systems, file structures, clash resolution procedures and of course drafting standards. Are they familiar with multi-disciplinary design interaction and have they got project management skills? To top it all off, should they have degrees in Architecture, Engineering or Construction?

Then there is the broader issue of whether any of the consultants or contractor have worked on a BIM project. If this is a new process to the majority of professionals then the BIM Manager will also need to be experienced in training people on how to work on a BIM team.

Therefore a good BIM manager needs to understand the many facets of construction, operate with proven procedures and above all they need to be able to work with the client to define the scope and purpose of the BIM.

In my opinion, the jury is out on this one for now. As more and more clients demand co-ordinated designs facilitated by detailed 3D models, different consultants will emerge with their ideas on how to implement and manage a BIM project.

For it to be a true success, everyone involved in construction needs to learn about and understand BIM and how it affects their niche within the industry and then the BIM Managers will be able to conduct the Symphony.

Swire Properties using 3D Models

2007-06-20T14:57:00.001+08:00

Today's SCMP Property supplement features an article on how Swire Properties are using 3D models on One Island East for the benefit of the environment. The use of Digital Project by Gehry Technologies on the project is attributed with reducing construction waste and also in aiding energy efficient design.

One of our experienced 3D Engineers, Laudemer Ilasin, previously worked with Gehry Technologies on the project during the initial set-up and he assisted Arup, Meinhardt and Wong & Ouyang with the BIM.

Laudemer is now working with Ove Arup on another complex 3D model for the Hong Kong International Airport where a study is underway to improve the efficiency of the Baggage Handling System. A complete 3D CAD model of the existing facility and the proposed alterations is being modelled to assist in the design process and eliminate clashes.