What are the principal advantages of using a single building information model of the existing conditions as the foundation for modeling proposed additions or renovations?
When modeling in Revit, using a single building information model (BIM) with existing conditions as the basis for suggested additions or renovations has the following main advantages:
- Data consistency: The existing building information model contains all necessary data for the building, including information from various disciplines such as structure, electrical, and piping. This ensures that all professions can maintain data consistency when adding or refurbishing, avoiding data conflicts or omissions.
- Time saving: Using existing BIM models eliminates the need to build models from scratch, which can save a lot of time and manpower. Simply adding or modifying the existing model greatly improves work efficiency.
- Improve accuracy: Due to the detailed 3D modeling and data input of the existing BIM model, the accuracy and level of detail of the model are very high. Adding or renovating on this basis can ensure the overall accuracy of the model and reduce errors and omissions.
Why not create a separate model for the new proposed design?
Creating a separate model for the new proposed design, rather than modeling based on existing conditions, may face the following issues:
- Data integration: Creating a separate model for a new design requires re input of all data, which is not only time-consuming but also error prone. Using existing models can avoid this situation.
- Workflow issue: If the team decides to create a separate model for the new design, data exchange and coordination between the two models will become a challenge. This may lead to inconsistent data, duplication of work, and communication confusion.
- Continuation of design intent: If there is continuity in style, structure, or other aspects between the new design and the existing building, making modifications to the existing model can better continue the original design intent. Creating a new model may disrupt this continuity.
- Impact on existing structures: If the new design requires adding or modifying existing structures, directly operating on the existing model can better ensure the stability of the structure.
What sort of complexities are introduced when you construct a building complex in phases?
When constructing a building complex in stages in Revit, the following complexities may be introduced: Due to the phased construction of the building complex, different design teams or contractors may be responsible for different stages. This may lead to complex coordination between different stages, especially when different parts of the building complex need to connect or interact with each other. Meanwhile, as the project progresses, a large amount of data and information may be generated at each stage. Effectively managing and tracking this information can be a challenge, especially for large and complex building clusters. Using BIM software such as Revit can help manage and track this information, but time and resources still need to be invested to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information. Staged construction may require identifying, evaluating, and managing the risks of each stage. This includes predicting potential problems, developing response measures, and monitoring actual risk situations. Finally, as the building complex is constructed in stages, different stakeholders may participate at different stages. This may lead to more complex communication and coordination with all parties, especially in situations involving design, contractors, owners, and other stakeholders.
- What happens at the interfaces between the buildings as the phases advance?
When constructing a building complex in stages in Revit, as the stages advance, the interface between buildings will go through a process from preliminary design to construction drawing design, construction process, acceptance, and use. In this process, the design concept gradually becomes clear, building elements are continuously refined and added, structural systems are planned, electromechanical systems are laid out, construction processes are coordinated and monitored, detailed design and construction are completed, and maintenance is carried out during the acceptance and use stages.
- How can you plan and prepare for these complexities as you create your initial building model?
To reduce these complexities, the following points can be considered: Develop a clear project management plan, including goals, timelines, budgets, and resource requirements. Establish effective communication mechanisms and coordination processes to ensure information flow and cooperation among all parties. Use advanced technical tools such as BIM to help manage and track data and information. Hire a professional construction management team to assist in construction planning and execution. Develop a risk management plan, including identifying potential issues, developing response measures, and monitoring risk situations. Establish close cooperative relationships with various stakeholders to ensure effective communication and coordination.