Overview
Building Information Modeling (BIM) catalyzed a digital transformation in the construction industry. Professionals create detailed 3D models that optimize communication, coordination, and decision-making. To maximize the benefits of BIM, you need to effectively coordinate Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in BIM environments like AutoDesk BIM360, especially when using 3D laser scanning and point cloud meshing. In this blog post, we explore the benefits of enabling OEMs through collaborative BIM environments and discuss concepts recquired for seamless BIM coordination and implementation.
BIM Construction
Before diving into coordinating OEMs in BIM environments like BIM 360, let’s address the concept of BIM construction. BIM is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building, providing a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility. This 3D model-based process dramatically improves collaboration, reduces errors and duplication, and increases efficiency in design, construction, and operation. With BIM 3D model driven projects, the building, remodel, or retrofit is designed in 3D ahead of construction. This is especially valuable because clashes and problems are observed and addressed ahead of construction saving a lot of rework, back charges, time, and money.
BIM Coordination
BIM coordination ensures seamless communication and collaboration between stakeholders in a construction project, including architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. All parties work in a coordinated and efficient manner towards a common goal. Integrated construction and BIM coordination result in smoother project execution and superior outcomes. BIM coordination requires software and sometimes interoperability of multiple softwares. Within the BIM environment workflows and collaboration spaces need to be created, implemented, and adhered to. For companies executing large contracts with many partners involved, the BIM coordinator is a full time position and will probably require several subordinates. OAR Scanning LLC offers BIM implementation, coordination, and support services  for companies who want to contract.
Harness the Benefits of OEM Coordination in BIM Environments
Effectively coordinating OEMs in BIM environments like BIM 360 yields numerous benefits, including:
Unmatched Quality Control
Involve OEMs in the design phase to leverage their specialized knowledge and expertise in specific products or systems, leading to exceptional-quality outcomes. Proper BIM implementation provides systems where OEMs contribute 3D models of their equipment along with their expertise to the design and integration of industrial facilities. Project owners who are not utilizing BIM to leverage the expertise and help of their OEMs are leaving missing out! We think that OEMs who do not have in house BIM capabilities or who’s BIM services around the integration of their equipment will struggle to get contracts as BIM adoption grows over the coming years.
Accelerated Speed and Efficiency
Integrate detailed 3D models of products or systems provided by OEMs directly into the BIM model to expedite the design and construction process. Depending on the requirements of the project owner, designer, manager, or GC, OEMs can submit their equipment directly into the integration designs. Otherwise systems enable OEM submissions in an expedient way where the designer is responsible for all BIM 360 model coordination. It’s worth noting that in Norway where these technologies are more widely adopted, ground is broken on large infrastructure projects before designs are even close to being finalized. In fact, BIM projects utilizing 3D Revit models, scan to BIM, BIM process, 3D design, and BIM coordination are required for public infrastructure projects due to significantly enhanced efficiency. We expect similar requirements in the US in the coming years.
Minimized Errors and Rework
Reduce the likelihood of errors, omissions, or design clashes by coordinating OEMs in BIM environments, leading to less rework, fewer change orders, and lower project costs. One example of the value here for integrating heavy equipment is the clash detection feature. Automatic clash detection features provide detailed reports and allow for markups and assignments. This information is relayed to the OEMs or perhaps run by them themselves. They can modify their prefabs ahead of construction and designers can adjust layouts accordingly. Identifying and fixing these problems in the BIM execution plan averts excess construction costs.
Enhanced Collaboration
Utilize collaborative BIM environments like BIM 360 and AutoDesk Construction Cloud for real-time communication and collaboration between stakeholders, promoting better decision-making and improved efficiency. It is very easy for screenshots, emails and phone calls to get lost in the shuffle of the project. By bringing all design and integration efforts into a single program and attaching responsibility to the BIM manager, problems become solutions faster.
Implement Effective OEM Coordination in BIM Environments
Facilitate seamless OEM coordination in BIM environments by following these steps:
Onboard OEMs onto the Platform
Set up workflows, establish file types, and ensure OEMs have access to the necessary tools and resources when onboarding them onto the BIM platform.
Foster Collaboration
Appoint a single person or company to direct the team and make decisions about processes, ensuring cohesive and swift execution.
Develop a BIM Execution Plan
Outline how BIM will be used throughout the project lifecycle by defining roles, responsibilities, and deliverables, including aspects like BIM clash detection and 3D BIM coordination.
Adopt 3D Design Capabilities
Integrate OEM models into the larger BIM model by incorporating 3D design capabilities essential for designing a 3D print model or utilizing 3D coordination software.
Conclusion
Effectively coordinating OEMs in BIM environments like BIM 360 and AutoDesk Construction Cloud provides cost savings and improved project outcomes. By involving OEMs in the design phase and fostering collaboration between stakeholders, you can minimize errors and rework while enhancing communication. Leverage the latest tools and technologies, such as 3D laser scanning, point cloud meshing, and BIM coordination software, to unlock faster, more efficient and less costly projects.
