4D simulations are often used to show the construction sequence for an entire project, but shorter simulations that focus on a specific period of time are also useful.
- Can you provide examples of how a simulation that focuses on a 1 or 2 week period could be useful for planning?
A shorter simulation could be useful to demonstrate the intricacies of a particular step of the process. A narrower scope could be used to demonstrate the development of just the walls or just the beams showing which beams are assembled first.
What level of detail should be included in a 4D simulation?
- Should you include all of the elements in the building model?
No you should not. If the building model is too detailed it is overly cluttered and less effective. Ideally the detail is one level more specific than the system it represents.
How can the feedback shown in a 4D simulation help you to optimize the project schedule?
- What are the main benefits of linking model elements to the project schedule?
If the steps scheduled are not possible, the 4d simulation would demonstrate the impossibility. The main benefit is you can see the specific elements in your design be put in place in time. This allows you to see how something is planned to happen before it happens.
How can model-based quantity takeoff improve the design process?
How can designers improve their designs using the information provided by preliminary estimates of the cost of building their design ideas?