Currently, prefabricated projects often adopt the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) model, which closely integrates the design and construction phases. The architectural design institute begins with a preliminary design following relevant standards, coordinating closely with the construction team to ensure the design meets both technical requirements and facilitates efficient construction. Afterward, the design is handed over to a specialized prefabricated building manufacturer for detailed secondary development. The architectural design institute then performs structural analysis on the refined drawings.
In prefabricated projects, design, construction, and component manufacturing teams can leverage BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology to create an information-sharing platform that enables seamless data exchange. This platform allows real-time updates to design drawings, ensuring high-quality prefabricated components and efficient on-site assembly during later stages. Successful use of BIM technology depends on establishing standardized design protocols and splitting rules, which support the widespread adoption of universal assembly standards.
(1) Establishing the BIM Model
Prefabricated buildings are represented through detailed 3D models. Unlike traditional CAD drawings, these 3D BIM models allow users to intuitively and accurately extract required data via a shared information platform, facilitating collaborative management among all project participants. The BIM model’s parameters control and adjust component models — changing one parameter will automatically update related parameters. This process helps optimize multi-disciplinary drawings, avoiding conflicts and inconsistencies across different design fields.
(2) Collaborative Design and Construction via Information Technology Platforms
Creating a component model starts with defining modeling standards based on design drawings. Assembly modeling is then completed according to these standards, followed by applying the models within BIM software. Once the BIM model is built, each participant can export necessary drawings and data as needed. The BIM visualization tools enhance communication and coordination among all parties involved.
By integrating the BIM model with an information-sharing platform, database technology enables collaborative management across various professional disciplines. For example, the Revit model can be imported into Navisworks for clash detection, identifying conflicts among pipelines, installation heights, structural beams, columns, and reinforcing bars. The clash detection results are compiled into a list, guiding the optimization of drawings for all assembly specialties.
(3) Quantity Calculation and Cost Control
BIM technology facilitates shared information platforms that allow rapid and accurate extraction of essential construction data, supporting dynamic construction management. This capability enables swift data analysis for precise quantity takeoffs and node calculations. Using BIM, the accuracy of quantity calculations can be maintained within 3%, significantly reducing labor efforts and lowering overall project costs.
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