Case Study: BIM Management 1 Bligh Street. Ryan Hanlen, Architectus

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2 Class Description This presentation will demonstrate, through the exploration of a large scale architectural project for which Architectus is leading BIM Management role, the benefits of using Revit and Navisworks for BIM Coordination. Explore the relationship between the design and documentation platforms of Revit and AutoCAD to the collaborative and analysis platform of Navisworks software. The creation of a common coordinate system to ensure seamless integration of multi-discipline and format files into a combined BIM Model. Export settings and tips Revit and AutoCAD Benefit of new exporter plug-in for Revit Collaboration and model assembly techniques visual definition, model organization Analysis levels Clash detection: creating batches/defining areas and critical items Use of Navisworks for coordination purpose finding elements, query properties, search sets, selections sets, and clash test reports. Outline the process and protocols required to facilitate such a venture, from file management, creation of template files, modeling standards leading to production of combined BIM Model. About the Speaker: BIM Coordinator for Architectus Sydney office, specialising in the development and implementation of Revit for a range of Architectural, Interior and Urban Design projects. He is also at the forefront of BIM Management for a large scale, multidiscipline coordination project utilising the three flavours of Revit, Navisworks Manage and Design Review. With over 11yrs or experience in the local Architectural industry and having managed hotels in England and northern NSW, the knowledge gained from Cellar and BIM Management process is a unique yet happy marriage. Page 2 of 16

3 Defining B.I.M.M So what is BIMM? To answer this we first need to understand the acronym of BIM, which the definition is varied and widely understood or misunderstood in many cases. Building Information modelling (BIM) is an approach to the design documentation and coordination of building where a digital model is created of this structure. This model contains elements that are analogues of their realworld counterparts, with equivalent geometry and properties. Properties can contain any information pertinent to the object, as well as derived such as area calculation. Documentation is created using the nominated BIM software platform by extracting the relevant information from the building model in the form of views, schedules etc. I express the BIM Management (B.I.M.M) process as directing the information - Managing the BIM with the focus on the Information and managing this data. The adoption and use of BIM is now numerous and growing, with the benefits for all participants in the process, including contractors often citied with the use of BIM. As such BIM is still an emerging technological process within the construction industry as a whole, as a process it continues to be developed and refined from both ends of the spectrum (software development and the end user). BIM Management is a developing procedure and service having evolved much beyond the traditional role of CAD Manager, incorporating key aspects of this previous role and drawing upon project management skills and techniques to conduct a role that is constantly in flux as new techniques and technologies emerge. Bligh Street Project overview 1 Bligh Street project is being used as case study to illustrate the role of a BIM Management. Architectus in association with Ingenhoven Architects (Germany) have designed a highly sustainable office tower, which Grocon are constructing on the site bounded by Bligh, Bent and O Connell Streets. Project Details Client: DEXUS Property Group and CBUS Property Location: Sydney CBD Approx. Cost: $640M Floor Area: 42,000m2 Completion: May 2011 Page 3 of 16

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5 What do we do as BIM Managers? The central role was headed by Architectus BIM Coordinator, responsible for overseeing all processes within the BIM Management structure and the key point of contact to external members, including model managers of appointed consultants and subcontractors. As chairperson I drew support and directed members within various teams within Architectus office. These include: IT Manager, Design Technology Director, experienced Revit users and the Project Architect and subsequent project team. The BIM Manager Role incorporates, though is not limited to: Ascertain the BIM capabilities of the engaged parties (consultants, subcontractors) Determine the software platforms to be used by the various parties Define the roles and responsibilities of the various parties with regard to BIM Determine the data to be included in the various models and sub models Create, implement and manage data and modelling standards Map the structure of file linking and interchanged between parties Produce protocols and formats for the timely exchange of data Conduct training and provide support/advice on use and interoperation of the various platforms to engaged consultants Management of the individual BIM models Collaborate a combined multi-discipline BIM model Performing analysis on individual and combined BIM models Host the combined BIM and its derivative models. Provide the central source for project information Lead comprehensive BIM coordination meetings Page 5 of 16

6 Determining Output Consultation with clients Dexus Property Group and Grocon ascertained the level of information and proposed future use of combined model. Members within these organisations were aware of some fundamental aspects of the BIM process, though further education provided by Architectus led to the level of data to be contained within the individual models being produced by sub consultants engaged by Grocon. The main platform for producing the models was Autodesk Revit (Architecture, MEP and Structure) with those members not modelling on this chief platform providing compatible files able to be imported into both Revit and Navisworks for coordination and collaboration purposes. With various file types combined with a single BIM capable platform set the bench mark for output formats. It was determined native format RVT, DWG files would be provided, in conjunction with NWD and DWF files. Page 6 of 16

7 Process overview/workflow After determining and outlining the scope of works for BIM Management role the BIM capabilities of the engaged parties were evaluated to ascertain the level of support and training required prior to commencement of work. An analysis of the software platforms to be used by the various parties was conducted with varying degrees of experience presented, from members whom had completed previous BIM projects to those whom were new to this process. The new members were introduced to BIM capable software, being Revit, with project specific training provided by the BIM Management team. Ongoing support was provided to all parties, though these newer members required additional assistance with selected senior members seconded to perform duties within their organisation as a mentoring/tutoring role until such time as they were capable of sustaining. The roles and responsibilities of the various parties with regard to BIM were determined during workshop meetings. The respective parties informed of various requirements and responsibilities to upheld throughout the project lifespan including providing accurate information to develop an As Built model for completion of project. Page 7 of 16

8 Analysis Extensive testing and evaluation was conducted within Architectus offices to formulate the optimal system to operate BIM software, keeping in mind the recommended solution provided by software developers. As part of the analysis of consultants and subcontractors, an investigation into the hardware currently used by each party was conducted. The data extracted from this analysis was compared against that of recommended minimum and tested system requirement levels to perform BIM documentation by chosen software platform. The analysis of the appointed consultants determined the primary software platform implemented throughout the practices to be Autodesk Revit. New parties appointed were requested to model within this common BIM platform, though for those who possessed alternate BIM platforms which they currently modelled were requested to provide a BIM model in compatible format for import into Navisworks and if possible a format compatible with Revit to enable low level collaboration. Coordinate and Data Templates With Revit being the primary BIM platform a template was produced and published to all parties. This served several purposes: to create a common reference point (real world coordinate), provide view templates for use of data export to Navisworks. The real world coordinate enabled firstly each model to be imported to a combined BIM model with extreme accuracy automatically. The coordinate reference also enabled on site location of elements from the digital model in a real-world situation by use of geospatial measuring systems further enhancing the construction process and demonstrating a direct benefit of BIM to construction and coordination. The view templates allowed consultants modelling within Revit to adopt these settings for a common export base for Navisworks. As such the Navisworks exporter plug-in relates to settings from the active 3D view within Revit, therefore to ensure model integrity and consistency (two key elements in creating an accurate BIM model) were maintained effectively the view templates were assigned to the nominated 3D export view. Page 8 of 16

9 View template for exporting data from Revit to Navisworks The consultants who had implemented Navisworks within their office were provided export settings templates to ensure the data provided in Navisworks format was produced consistently across all disciplines. Due to the licensing agreement limitations BIM Management was unable to issue the exporter plug-ins to all consultants engaged and therefore performed this task for those consultants not possessing ability to provide Navisworks compatible file types. Export Settings Template for model exporter plug-in for Revit to Navisworks Page 9 of 16

10 Data Transfer/Exchange The method of delivery and file transfer was set by the developer already using a digital transfer site Aconex, with all parties added as members to project to allow access to data transferred via this site. Whilst the Aconex site was used as a delivery method, the BIM Management team maintained a pivotal role in the exchange and auditing of data. This was achieved via all models being issued directly to BIM Management where analysis of these files was conducted prior to publication to relevant parties. In such data management was achieved and integrity of data was maintained. Page 10 of 16

11 Example of Aconex transmittal with BIM Models attached Protocols, Notifications and Advice documents issued to consultants Protocols such as listed above and naming conventions for models and transmittals were implemented to assist in effective data transfer. This also included developing a data exchange cycle, where the models were received, analysed and issued to parties on a set timeframe to ensure updated models remained available for coordination, analysis and reference. This process was developed and managed by the BIM Management team, ensuring all parties observed and adhered to the protocol outlined. A simple naming convention was developed using principles to identify the individual models by discipline, consultant name, project, and date of model. An example of this: Arch_Architectus_1 Bligh_ This naming convention ensured models issued could be tracked and identified, with the suffix removed upon overwriting model linked into Revit to allow seamless reloading or referenced models. The exchange frequency was increased during the course of the project to publish amendments made within models to consultants at a higher rate to assist in on site construction coordination and timing. This was a necessary change to the process due to the data of commencement of BIM Management of project being closely trailed by the construction of building on site. For this systems were frequently tested, tied and developed as required to ensure a smooth process from documentation to construction was maintained. This demonstrated a process employed at conception would not always be the most ideal approach for the life of project and highlights the ability of maintaining a dynamic system enabled these amendments to be implemented. Further support was offered by mapping an effective and efficient structure of file linking and interchanges between parties within the nominated BIM platform. Page 11 of 16

12 Model Management Each model was subjected to a level of analysis on a periodical basis to ensure the modelling standards and protocols were adhered to and with the primary BIM Platform set as Revit, this process was easily managed with these individual models able to be interrogated by BIM Management using the native platform. Check measures included: Saved model view to ensure loading times for other users was streamlined Superfluous elements removed reducing file size View management removal of temporary views Link Management removal of additional (non-required) links Element Attributes ensuring the base level as specified in Modelling Standards included within Revit Families contained in file The building information modelling BIM data standards ensure all BIM models are created from a common point, setting the minimum level of information contained within the modelled elements. This level of information was set by a combination of industry standards and that deemed beneficial for the use of client during construction and as final product. The collaborated data formed the basis of information available for analysis and future FM (facilities Management) of site. The base level of information contained within the models was set as a general requirement with further discipline specific requirements added to this platform to create a valuable BIM Model. To clarify examples of the type of data included within all elements modelled are: Associated Level, Specification Code, Type/Model, and Manufacturer/Supplier. This base level of information was further enhanced by discipline specific data such as: Architecture Floors Acoustic Rate, Fire Rating, Depth, Impact Rating, Structure; whilst Mechanical Ducts Type, Connection, Size, Flow Rate. Developing and defining the data required to be contained within each BIM Model ensured the determined output for the final model would be achievable. General model management and advice was conducted to assist each consultant in their modelling workflow, providing support if required. Site visits were conducted to ascertain the best measure approach for each discipline, and monitor the workflow internally. Page 12 of 16

13 BIM Coordination Meetings In conjunction with the data exchange cycle, coordination meetings were scheduled to discuss various issues within the models. The topics discussed ranging from results of analysis of elements clashing to providing tips for enhancing modelling process. The clash detection process is another system that has evolved over the life of the project, with a systematic approach to both the areas of analysis and the action assigned to these issues. The detection process was assessed per level to enable each floor to be signed-off for construction throughout the building. This procedure is something that Navisworks does not provide the desired level of interrogation to break a multi-story building into level analysis automatically due to this shortfall systems were developed by the BIM Management team to overcome this software limitation. By the creation of Selection Sets and Search Sets within the Navisworks project analysis of desired regions were possible. This however required a level of manual input to create the selection sets and updating the selected elements within these upon issue of updated models. Clash Summary report to highlight areas of focus green displaying areas of zero clashes detected Page 13 of 16

14 The automated reporting available from Navisworks also does not enable adequate coordination or identification of real-world clashes. Due to these further customised systems were developed to provide a report of total clashes relating to the specific areas per discipline and to highlight these within the combined model during the BIM Coordination meetings, where model managers and project managers representing each consultancy conducted discussion to determine and assign action to resolve highlighted clashes. By the reduction within each area the level by level assessment enables the regions to be signed-off for construction reducing the RFIs from site and enhance the construction process. In addition the BIM coordination enabled greater use of space within the building, having a positive effect on let able floor area by the confidence in reducing service areas to minimal requirements. Going beyond the tradition methods of assigning a fixed space or zone for each discipline to work within this refined hybrid process allowed great integration and cross use of areas with small tolerance allowance and code requirements dictating the true zone required. Examples of Clash images within report and meeting displayed Isolated, Other elements transparent and dimmed, full model with highlighted elements. Viewports were created within Navisworks to display the clash groups or individual items, with comments added to the views to assign action of relevant party. As such there was a digital record within the Navisworks file as a reference of who was responsible for action to resolve nominated clashes, where upon clash being resolved or approved these items were marked accordingly and assigned within properties. By creating selection sets of clashing items and providing saved viewports members using Freedom viewer are able to reference the elements clashing within Navisworks in lieu of relying solely on reports providing a superior coordination base. Page 14 of 16

15 Benefits The benefits of using BIM are varied and documented heavily, the key benefits we have noted from BIM Management are: Improved coordination Improved construction sequencing to be fully explored Improved understanding for contractors on site for intended construction via on site model query Ability to govern the data output from BIM Models, with periodical analysis ensure model integrity Greater ROI (return on Investment) for BIM projects for both individual companies and owner/developer via reduced documentation/coordination phase and reduced RFI on site. Shortfalls Navisworks is under the spot light here as a market leading BIM Collaboration platform with ability to perform various levels of analysis of combined models. The most obvious and common being the clash detection system. There however are shortfalls Autodesk needs to address to bring this software platform from tested mining background into a construction industry. The ability to search based on RL or within a range to allow easy of selection of elements within model. Elevation properties are available within Navisworks though the manner in which elements are modelled often does not allow elements to be selected by base reference such as duct and pipe work. Clash parameter to be included in element properties allowing for elements clashing to be included in search sets. Freedom viewer needs increased tool set for viewing, such as ability to section views and import clash detection xml for reference. Page 15 of 16

16 Summary The BIM Management process as outlined throughout the document was a new venture for the major stake holders involved. Due to this the workflow and entire process has evolved during the lifecycle of the project and one that continues to be developed as new methods and software enhancements are uncovered. The scope of this particular project enveloped the 3D benefits of BIM though was not set to 4, 5 or now 6D. (For those not aware these are 4D: Sequencing; 5D: Cost; 6D: Facilities Management). However the client was aware of benefits of this future BIM ability and contributed in governing the information contained within the models to act as basis for FM platform. The experience has been an in-depth learning curve for the parties involved; a positive series of outcomes has increased the capability of all parties involved and demonstrated the benefit of using BIM for coordination, collaboration and management within a complex development. Although the uptake of BIM has taken some time we could not coordinate Bligh Street services as well as we did without BIM. I am converted Stewart Swinbourne Hastie The implementation of BIM on 1 Bligh has allowed parties to design, document and coordinate with confidence. The BIM Management has ensured the modelling standards, protocols and data exchange has lead to a data rich combined BIM Model to be produced with a high level of accuracy. The coordination process has been enhanced with the analysis and reporting of elements within the digital model prior to construction, and will serve as platform for interrogation post construction for Facilities Management. The future of this project will continue beyond Architectus involvement with Grocon currently conducting the BIM Management role for the Integrated Fit-out and with plans to assign costing measures to the model and linking Material Data Sheets and Equipment Maintenance Manuals to model elements for FM. Acknowledgment: Fawzi Soliman has played a critical role in the success of the BIM Management project within Architectus, special thanks is extended for his involvement whilst working under the direction of the BIM Coordinator/1 Bligh BIM Manager. Steve Fiorio (Grocon National BIM Manager) has provided assistance and information regarding the development of BIM within the construction process. Scott Frater (Grocon Site Engineer) providing updated construction information and data, assisting in the management of Consultants Rodd Perey (Architectus Design Technology Director) has provided assistance and guidance of the processes necessary to facilitate such a venture. Page 16 of 16