Unified contracting has long been a common approach in China’s construction engineering. The integration of BIM (Building Information Modeling) has significantly enhanced this traditional centralized contracting method by boosting efficiency and reducing communication time. Today, let’s explore the specific applications of BIM during the design and construction phases of turnkey projects.
1. BIM Applications in the Integrated Design Phase
(1) Reviewing Design Conflict Reports
BIM is used to detect conflicts between various mechanical and electrical equipment, pipelines, and structural elements. This process involves reviewing detailed inspection reports. To maintain control, both regular and ad hoc technical meetings are held to discuss and synchronize issues via an online platform, enabling timely problem identification. Additionally, monthly reviews of BIM progress reports submitted by contractors are conducted to ensure ongoing quality and coordination.
(2) Supervising Space Net Height Verification
The net height of a space directly impacts its functionality and comfort, thereby affecting overall quality of life. BIM aids in verifying ceiling clearance by planning the layout of all pipelines within the ceiling space. Design adjustments are made based on conflict review feedback to achieve an optimal ceiling height that meets both contractual and functional requirements.
(3) Overseeing Production of 2D Supplementary Drawings from 3D Models
Contractors are supervised to generate 2D plans, elevations, and sectional drawings of various professional systems directly from 3D BIM models after conflict resolution. This close linkage between models and drawings improves accuracy and speeds up the review process. However, due to some software limitations and operational convenience, supplementary 2D drawings may still be required in certain cases.
(4) Supervising Continuous Wall 3D Visualization for Rock Penetration Depth
The depth of continuous walls is determined based on geological drilling data and geotechnical engineering analysis. BIM helps visualize the continuous wall extending into the rock, allowing contractors to conduct feasibility reviews of wall construction. This 3D visualization supports better planning and control during subsequent construction phases.
2. BIM Applications in the Unified Construction Phase
(1) Supervising Mechanical and Electrical Pipeline Construction Drawings
BIM is employed to generate detailed mechanical and electrical pipeline construction drawings. It helps verify the sequence of pipeline installation, spatial heights, floor drainage slopes, and the placement and size of pipelines in areas such as computer rooms, toilets, and kitchens. This oversight increases construction accuracy and minimizes the need for rework.
(2) Managing Construction Interface Integration
Models of various systems must be integrated, with BIM facilitating interface conflict detection, construction feasibility assessments, and spatial rationality reviews. The general contracting team is required to submit a spatial self-inspection confirmation report during each construction drawing review. This report includes interface coordination records and vertical clearance inspections, explaining coordination efforts and confirming the feasibility of the construction plan.
(3) Assisting Material, Color, and Sample Selection through Interactive Visualization
BIM models enable 3D simulations of colors, lighting, materials, and spatial layouts. This interactive environment helps owners make precise decisions on materials, colors, and samples. For instance, physical presentations of real units unify construction standards and accelerate the overall construction process.
(4) Simulating Large-Scale Equipment Positioning
Before structural construction begins, BIM is used to simulate the positioning and transportation routes of large equipment. This foresight prevents costly delays caused by equipment placement issues or the need for wall removals.
(5) Supervising Layout and Recalibration
After concrete pouring on each floor, the general contractor performs measurements and layouts every other day. The BIM team then cross-checks on-site layout positions against the BIM model to ensure alignment and accuracy.
That covers the specific applications of BIM in the design and construction stages of turnkey projects. I hope this article proves helpful!
For more related content, please click 【BIM Import Applications】
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