How 4D Modeling reinforces Multi-Storey Building Construction
.
Multi-storey construction is a complex design and construction process. It requires the use of sophisticated design, planning, and construction tools and processes like BIM to achieve mandatory outcomes. The adoption of BIM technologies minimizes the risks associated with design and construction errors.
Adopting 4D BIM allows project teams to create an accurate and comprehensive construction based on visual planning. The use of a 4D model in the construction of a multi-storey building helps detect spatial and temporal errors before the actual on-site construction begins.
To be effective and competitive in the design and construction sector, AEC firms need to adopt progressive methods to achieve positive construction outcomes. Over funding or under funding are risks that need to be taken into account based on project timelines, and there is a need to work more efficiently. It is also important to save time and money, demand fewer resources, and not compromise on quality are specific areas that need to be addressed.
How does 4D BIM save time and money during construction of multi-storey buildings?
The addition of the “time” attribute to a 3D model results in a broadly defined 4D environment. This extra feature provides the model with greater dynamism of representing the behavior of multi-storey building elements along time. The adoption of 4D BIM augments construction and helps architects, contractors, and builders calculate accurate project timelines. It also enables a deeper understanding of large-scale projects preferably, multi-storey structures that show high-complexity at every stage.
4D BIM for multi-storey buildings ensures enhanced team coordination and communication between architects, contractors, builders, and other stakeholders. This enables improved project delivery time, streamlined project planning and time, and significant cost savings.
Benefits of 4D BIM Scheduling
- • Identify design errors
• Optimize the placement of materials and structures at various construction stages
• Improve the operation of cranes on-site
• Enhance the organizational work performance
• Monitor activities related to on-site preparation for labor protection and compliance
• Safety requirements for on-site personnel
• Make the project more constructible and productive by reducing onsite waste and rework
An architectural firm from Manchester, UK required a coordinated 4D BIM model with construction sequencing and a project intro video. 2D drawings were provided as input. The business needs were - clear design intent, save cost on design rework, devise a systematic design flow, etc.
The challenges for the team included - technical drawings in a foreign language, five different inter-woven levels, and missing MEP dimensions of pipes and systems.
The team at Hitech CADD Services built a fully coordinated 4D BIM model by detecting and eliminating clashes and created a time liner video for hassle-free construction. The entire project of creating a 4D BIM simulation was achieved in 2 months and delivered to the client.
The 4D BIM model helped the client develop a clear design intent, save costs, and reduce project rework based on a sequential video. Read Case Study.
The key purpose of 4D BIM is project scheduling, but it revolves around various aspects for architects and contractors. The roles of an architect include building design, team management, prepare construction documents for structure and material, work with contractors, etc. On the other hand, contractors need to direct and oversee construction, interact with clients, check constructability, coordinate with various stakeholders, etc.
To achieve successful deliverables out of every role mentioned for architects and contractors, there is a single factor that connects all - Time. Knowledge of a contractor is key when building a 4D model for the planning process. A contractor can provide valuable feedback to build a 4D model for constructiveness, approximate construction cost, and consistency.
With a host of benefits, 4D serves as a tool to identify bottlenecks and improve coordination between various project teams.
Authored by:
Harika Singh is an academician and published writer. Her passion for engineering and technology reflects in the in-depth coverage she provides on technology trends. 20 years of work association with institutes of repute across India and the US positions her to provide valuable insights to business stakeholders on achieving scalability and operational efficiencies through digitalization.
