The intersection of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) holds immense potential. By integrating Forge’s intelligent models with Microsoft Azure IoT Hub, we open the door to vast possibilities, including advanced machine learning insights. In this article, we’ll explore how data collected using BIM 360 software
McLaren Construction has chosen OpenSpace, the global leader in 360° reality capture, to integrate AI-powered computer vision and analytics into its projects throughout the UK. OpenSpace helps construction and real estate companies operate more efficiently and with less risk. The company’s AI-powered computer vision and analytics make OpenSpace the fastest
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a part of the construction industry since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it gained significant traction. Since then, BIM has continuously evolved, enhancing efficiency, communication, and productivity across the industry. Now, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), BIM
Remap, a technology company aiming to transform the built environment industry, has been launched by former Hawkins\Brown digital design associates Ben Porter and Jack Stewart. Remap stands at the intersection of technology and construction, using creative solutions to address long-standing industry headaches and set new standards. Key services include digital
This Women in Construction Week, HEITKAMP Site Manager Sina Motsch shares her thoughts on how digital solutions have diversified the business of earthworks… Located in the renowned mining region of Germany, Saarland, the Maybach mining heap stands as a testament to the industrial legacy dating back centuries. Historically serving as
British Gypsum, part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, has launched a groundbreaking digital construction tool that enhances the use of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects. The first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge technology makes it easier to maintain the golden thread of information and acts as a reliable single source of truth. BIMlocker is
Steven Cunningham, Head of Engineering and Project Management at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland, has outlined ambitions for 2024 and beyond, focussing on enhancing customer engagement and developing people. With a wealth of experience in many facets of the business including estimating, trade, sales, and project management, Steven
International formwork and scaffolding specialist, Doka, has been rewarded for its commitment to service and design excellence in its UK business with the recent award of BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018 certification for Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes and management. Compliance with the standard demonstrates that Doka provides information in accordance
The world of building design, development, and maintenance has undergone a remarkable revolution, all thanks to recent strides in the construction industry. These breakthroughs have not only transformed how we create structures, but they’ve also ushered in a new era of enhanced productivity, efficiency, sustainability, and safety within the realm
Tecklenburg succeeds in the digital transformation from a traditional construction company to an award- and prize-winning BIM specialist with software solutions from the Nemetschek Group. In a construction project put out for tender throughout Europe, Tecklenburg was able to prevail over all competitors thanks to its expertise, and implemented the
The intersection of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) holds immense potential. By integrating Forge’s intelligent models with Microsoft Azure IoT Hub, we open the door to vast possibilities, including advanced machine learning insights. In this article, we’ll explore how data collected using BIM 360 software can be linked with building equipment to monitor operations and perform predictive analyses, ultimately reducing maintenance costs. A New Era in the AEC Industry It’s no secret that the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is in dire need of digital transformation. For too long, manual processes and rework have led to significant financial losses. A graphic from Box.com research illustrates the typical collaboration challenges within the construction sector: This graph highlights the fragmented nature of information within construction organisations. But how can we drive digital transformation in the AEC market? One promising avenue is leveraging available technologies. Autodesk’s cloud solutions, particularly BIM 360 products and Autodesk Forge, integrated with platforms like Microsoft Azure, have the potential to revolutionise the industry. These tools could eliminate the need for paper-based processes entirely. Have you heard of the concept of a digital twin? This idea, featured in Gartner’s Top Trends for 2017, continues to influence how we operate today. According to Gartner: “Within three to five years, billions of things will be represented by digital twins, a dynamic software model of a physical thing or system… Digital twins function as proxies for skilled individuals and traditional monitoring devices… They will enable a more detailed digital representation of the real world for simulation, analysis, and control.” To implement this technology, we need a digital model of a physical entity—whether it’s a machine, engine, or building. But how do we create a digital twin, and what do we do once it’s established? Let’s explore the technologies that deliver the digital twin concept. BIM 360 and Autodesk technology provide the 3D digital model, which can be created using tools like Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Revit, and Autodesk InfraWorks. BIM 360 allows cloud-based access to these models anytime, anywhere. Microsoft Azure acts as the bridge, collecting data from sensors and linking them to the digital world. A comprehensive vision of digital construction is depicted below: To better understand the integration of Autodesk BIM 360 with Microsoft Azure, think of Spider-Man. Initially, Spider-Man crafted a homemade suit. But after meeting Iron Man, Tony Stark developed a powerful new suit for him. This analogy is similar to how Autodesk BIM 360 becomes significantly more powerful when integrated with Microsoft Azure, as shown here: So, how can this integration be accomplished? That’s the focus of this article. BIM 360 as an IoT Hub To begin integrating Autodesk BIM 360 with Microsoft Azure, we must decide what information to store in each product. In 2016, I delivered a lecture at AU titled “Useless or Priceless? How to Prepare and Use a BIM Model for FM and Building Ops,” which served as the foundation for this discussion. For a digital twin, after preparing the model for facilities, BIM 360 Docs can host the 3D model, accessible via an external web application. I recommend visiting the Getting Started page of Autodesk Forge, the open API for Autodesk BIM 360, which provides all the necessary tools for developing integrations between Autodesk products and the Microsoft Azure cloud. The architecture of this new web application is illustrated in the following diagram: The web app will visualise the model integrated with data collected by sensors. What sensors are available on the market? Have a look: Which sensors can we use in this architecture? Virtually any sensor that meets these criteria: Security is paramount, so ensure that your cloud connectivity covers all these requirements. Additionally, since IoT sensors are exposed and connected to your network, implementing robust security measures is essential. Consider the following architecture for board security: Remote and mobile users from various locations can connect to the Web Security Service, which offers universal connectivity. The core service provides strong access governance, threat protection, information security, and data loss prevention, ensuring consistent enforcement of security policies across devices and locations. WSS acts as a unifying gateway to the web and cloud, bringing control to potential chaos. BIM 360 Build for Data Collection Even though my 2016 lecture focused on BIM 360 Field rather than BIM 360 Build, the principles still apply. At some point, a new equipment workflow will likely emerge in BIM 360 Build, similar to that in BIM 360 Field. To collect data using BIM 360 Build, create a checklist with fields such as: Field workers can complete the checklist using a mobile device, consulting the BIM model stored in BIM 360 Docs to identify the relevant codes. To link the component in the BIM model with the component in Azure, use the parameter name. For example, a sink might be identified as “BRSP430_403.01_ZN01_02F_04837_BS05_SINK01.” In the future, Forge API could be used to recreate the equipment feature in BIM 360 Build, streamlining the integration process and reducing manual effort, particularly for field workers. Alternatively, continue using the BIM 360 Field equipment workflow until BIM 360 Build matures. Follow the 2016 lecture’s example to collect data using Field and integrate it with the model. Linking Building Equipment with the BIM Model To link the equipment in BIM 360 Docs (digital model) with the equipment in the building (physical model), develop a new web application that integrates data from both realms. The new application will call BIM 360 using the following code: This will enable the web application to display the 3D model, complete with BIM 360 Docs’ features for model control (e.g., sectioning, zooming, model properties). Next, collect data from the sensors in the building by consuming data from Microsoft Azure IoT Hub. Here’s the coding logic: You’ll need to specify the URL where data is stored in Microsoft Azure. This will result in a web application that can consume both the 3D model and the sensor data from Microsoft Azure. To link the
McLaren Construction has chosen OpenSpace, the global leader in 360° reality capture, to integrate AI-powered computer vision and analytics into its projects throughout the UK. OpenSpace helps construction and real estate companies operate more efficiently and with less risk. The company’s AI-powered computer vision and analytics make OpenSpace the fastest and simplest way to fully document construction sites, visualise progress, coordinate with the field, and manage tasks. After a thorough RFP process designed to evaluate different vendors in the market, McLaren has come to the conclusion that OpenSpace provides the most value to their teams and overall operations. As one of the largest players in the UK construction industry, McLaren requires a solution that is capable of rapid and effortless scaling to support its growth. OpenSpace has proven to be able to deliver this level of scalability with a blend of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design, ensuring a smooth roll-out and swift adoption in the field. The ability to access a comprehensive visual record of construction sites from any location, will simplify remote progress tracking, facilitate issue management, and expedite cross-team communication and decision-making. With OpenSpace BIM+, McLaren Construction further aims to empower its teams by enhancing on-site BIM utilisation and improving coordination between the field and the office. Thomas Flannery, Head of Digital Construction at McLaren Construction, comments, “As the firm approaches £1 billion turnover, McLaren is investing around £4 million over three years in the skills and rigorous systems required for project and business management. These skills and systems will ensure compliance with building safety legislation and give us robust digital information management for all aspects of design, procurement, change and quality control process. Following a very competitive tender process we are pleased to partner with OpenSpace who align with McLaren’s aspirations of an open and streamlined software stack to help drive efficiency for our customers.” OpenSpace’s Account Executive Lewis Campbell comments, “Working with the team from McLaren Construction on the initial test projects has been a real pleasure, and it’s been fantastic to see our solution get adopted so quickly by everyone involved. McLaren is a real industry leader and an exceptional company, at the forefront of leveraging technology to build better and achieve outstanding results for their customers. We are looking forward to working with their teams on the deployment of OpenSpace across all major projects in the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a part of the construction industry since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it gained significant traction. Since then, BIM has continuously evolved, enhancing efficiency, communication, and productivity across the industry. Now, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), BIM is set to undergo another transformative leap, bringing new capabilities that promise to revolutionise how we plan, design, and manage construction projects. Understanding Building Information Modelling (BIM) BIM is both a process and a digital platform that enables the planning, design, construction, and management of buildings and infrastructure projects. Through BIM software, stakeholders can visualise the entire lifecycle of a project before any physical work begins. This capability allows project managers to comprehend the complexities of a project fully, facilitating better scheduling, resource allocation, and risk mitigation to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. AI’s Impact on BIM: Enhancing Capabilities The integration of AI into BIM has introduced significant advancements in several key areas, including clash detection, energy simulation, quality control, cost estimation, and schedule optimisation. AI and Augmented Reality (AR): A Powerful Combination Augmented Reality (AR) has gained traction in the construction sector, and its integration with AI-enhanced BIM is proving to be a game-changer. AR allows stakeholders to visualise the final product in a more immersive way than traditional blueprints or digital models. For example, clients can virtually walk through a building before construction begins, offering a more tangible understanding of what the finished project will look like. This capability is not only impressive but also invaluable in securing client buy-in and satisfaction. Challenges to AI Adoption in BIM Despite its many benefits, the adoption of AI-enhanced BIM is not without challenges. The most significant barrier is cost, as implementing advanced AI technologies can be expensive. Additionally, while BIM offers numerous preset designs, these can sometimes be restrictive for those seeking highly customised solutions. However, as AI technology continues to evolve, these limitations are likely to diminish, making it an increasingly attractive option for the construction industry. Conclusion The integration of AI into BIM is set to redefine the construction industry, offering unprecedented levels of efficiency, accuracy, and innovation. While challenges remain, the potential benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making AI-enhanced BIM a critical tool for the future of construction. As this technology continues to develop, we can expect even greater advancements, paving the way for smarter, more sustainable building practices. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Remap, a technology company aiming to transform the built environment industry, has been launched by former Hawkins\Brown digital design associates Ben Porter and Jack Stewart. Remap stands at the intersection of technology and construction, using creative solutions to address long-standing industry headaches and set new standards. Key services include digital transformation strategy, computational BIM & digital design, 2D / 3D application development and design to construction solutions. Ben and Jack each bring over ten years’ industry experience and expertise to the business. Qualified architects turned self-taught software developers, they honed their craft spearheading digital transformation of design and delivery at leading architecture practice Hawkins\Brown. With a solid foundation in design and construction and a passion for using technology to solve problems, they are on a mission to transform the industry from a fresh perspective. Jack Stewart says: “The built environment industry is at a critical juncture, facing challenges that require inventive solutions. There are so many organisations doing amazing work despite the hugely challenging landscape of the built environment industry – manual, unpredictable, adversarial, under-trained, under-funded and often undeliverable. “We believe that creative technologies can be a catalyst for positive change. From estate analysis, through design, construction, and use, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of conventional practices.” Oliver Milton, managing partner at Hawkins\Brown says: ”Ben and Jack’s fresh ideas and commitment to reshaping the industry have greatly benefitted Hawkins\Brown and our clients. We look forward to continuing to work with Remap to help bring about positive change in the built environment.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This Women in Construction Week, HEITKAMP Site Manager Sina Motsch shares her thoughts on how digital solutions have diversified the business of earthworks… Located in the renowned mining region of Germany, Saarland, the Maybach mining heap stands as a testament to the industrial legacy dating back centuries. Historically serving as the repository for non-coal-bearing waste rock from neighboring coal mines, this site has long been a landmark of the local landscape. However, with the conclusion of mining activities in Saarland in 2012, an era spanning over 250 years drew to a close and the site remained inactive until now, as an ambitious project takes shape to breathe new life into the area. This project involves the delivery of an impressive two million cubic meters of soil across 27 hectares, over the entire duration of 10 years. Sina Motsch, a dedicated jobsite manager from HEITKAMP Corporate Group, shares insights into her mission overseeing the project this Women in Construction Week. How do you use data to improve site performance and productivity? Sina explains: “For me as a jobsite manager, the daily challenge lies in grasping the latest jobsite development. Materials are being delivered, machines are constantly running and I’m confronted with a flood of data every day. It’s crucial for me to find an easy way to make sense of it and make use of this information effectively.” Drawing on her expertise in Lean Construction and Building Information Modelling (BIM), Sina aims to integrate BIM methods into earthworks by creating a constantly updated 3D digital twin of the jobsite. This innovative approach allows for real-time consultation of the latest jobsite updates by managers, operators, surveyors, and clients. How can we efficiently collect high-quality field data for the digital twin? Drone surveying was the first solution Sina’s team put in place. She says: “It’s a great method to gain comprehensive terrain insights once every few months.” However, the logistical challenge of daily drone flights and the need for more detailed information on specific jobsite areas and material deliveries required them to explore alternative solutions. “On this jobsite, progress is also recorded using as-built data and the intelligent Machine Control system from Komatsu. These intelligent machines can record actual height and position data during the filling process.” “This data is then sent automatically by the intelligent machines to the cloud and combined with drone point clouds to create terrain models – I therefore have a daily terrain model that is solely created by my equipment,” Why is it important to consider BIM methodology in earthworks? She explains: “In my academic focus, I specialised in Building Information Modeling (BIM) within the field of structural engineering. Now, in my role within the earthmoving environment, digital solutions have empowered me to apply BIM methodologies to earthworks. “By using Dashboard from Smart Construction I can transform my sites to a digital twin, where I can immediately find out where I stand, which materials need to be delivered and I can also easily look at construction fields to see where and how much has been built.” As the construction industry strives towards becoming more digitised, digital twins can help aid this vision. Embracing the goal of a digital future, construction companies are feeling the benefits from their investment in technology – from improving efficiency and profitability to reducing spend, improving accuracy, and even ameliorating fuel wastage. Smart Construction Dashboard, paired with Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control, serves as a robust solution for monitoring jobsite progress, supporting Sina and construction professionals alike around Europe and the world by providing efficient, real-time insight into the current jobsite conditions. For more information about Smart Construction, please visit: smartconstruction.io Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
British Gypsum, part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, has launched a groundbreaking digital construction tool that enhances the use of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects. The first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge technology makes it easier to maintain the golden thread of information and acts as a reliable single source of truth. BIMlocker is a digital solution that provides an additional layer of security and support within British Gypsum systems. BIMlocker is a free plugin security wrapper that enables users to increase accuracy and accountability across projects. It seamlessly integrates with Revit software, offering enhanced data validation capabilities to mitigate potential risks of specification data corruption, without compromising the design process. Architects, specifiers, and quality controllers will benefit from BIMlocker’s design preservation features. It safeguards the quality, integrity, and accuracy of system performance data, and provides peace of mind that British Gypsum product data remains faithful to the original system test substantiation throughout the design process. Paul French, Head of Digital Construction from British Gypsum said, “Demonstrating compliance, accountability, and integrity has never been more important within our industry. [WL1] Our new BIMlocker software provides reassurance as an invisible layer of security that acts as a valuable aid to construction supply chains in the Building Safety Act era. It eliminates any ambiguity and ensures complete transparency. “Anyone choosing BIMlocker can have complete confidence that they are managing risk in the design process. The supply chain demands accurate and reliable product data, and BIMlocker is the ultimate solution. making it effortless for everyone to uphold the highest standards and to make the right decisions.” British Gypsum is part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions and is committed to making a positive change in building design and design for the well-being of its end users. Constant research and development ensure that its solutions meet the current and future performance needs of all buildings, from simple to complex. It is committed to achieving net zero carbon by 2050, with checkpoint targets set by Saint-Gobain for 2030. To download BIMlocker, please visit www.british-gypsum.com/bimlocker Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Steven Cunningham, Head of Engineering and Project Management at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland, has outlined ambitions for 2024 and beyond, focussing on enhancing customer engagement and developing people. With a wealth of experience in many facets of the business including estimating, trade, sales, and project management, Steven is now responsible for the design function of the business. He said: “As we look ahead to our ambitions for 2024, customer engagement is a key business driver for us, as well as ensuring a smooth operation from the design to stage all the way through to manufacture and delivery. “The experience I have gained from my various roles in the business has given me a greater understanding, allowing me to see things from many different stakeholder’s perspectives – both customers and internally – to be able to improve processes and the quality of our offering. “As we are part of the wider ASSA ABLOY group, it gives us the ability to provide a more comprehensive solution than competitors, offering both the door and additional hardware as well.” The company’s Building Information Modelling (BIM) application, Openings Studio™, remains a key focus, with Steven keen to promote the benefits of the platform. “Openings Studio™ integrates with design software to create and visualise openings for complete door, frame and hardware schedules and specifications. “This enables seamless extraction of door design intent and all relevant interfaces to assist fabricators to develop complete door requirements that meet building regulations.” In addition to solutions such as Openings Studio™, Steven believes great people are at the heart of the company’s success. He adds: “We’re keen to develop staff, grow the design function, and increase collaboration across departments. We have a very capable design team with different age ranges, some with many valuable years of experience and some newer team members. “This blend helps vastly when it comes to innovation, and I’m always learning new things from younger colleagues and looking at ways we can improve and do things better. “Teamwork is crucial to reach our goals and exceed all expectations, and we are confident we have to tools in place to make 2024 a year to be proud of.” For more information on ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, please visit bit.ly/3OpVQRa. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
International formwork and scaffolding specialist, Doka, has been rewarded for its commitment to service and design excellence in its UK business with the recent award of BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018 certification for Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes and management. Compliance with the standard demonstrates that Doka provides information in accordance with set processes and customer requirements using a structured format. This applies in particular respect to the company’s project work, product delivery and the management of data systems that ensure processes are carried out as efficiently as possible. Pieter Strydom, UK Senior Engineer and BIM Coordinator at Doka said: “Receiving a Certificate of Conformity to BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018 is hugely important for us as a business. It informs our customers of our dedication to providing the best service and of our understanding of processes set out within the standard.” To achieve the certification, Doka underwent intensive assessments under the guidance of the British Standards Institute (BSI), one of the world’s leading national standards bodies. The three-day process included an external audit of Doka’s procedures in respect of its project delivery. This determined that BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018 standards were upheld in terms of documentation and building information modelling (BIM) systems used. Pieter continued: “It took us about a year to obtain the Certificate of Conformity. During this time, a significant portion was spent developing and organising internal documentation for the process to be developed internally. It was time well spent, however, as conformity with the standard and achieving BSI’s much sought after stamp of approval puts Doka among the forerunners of the formwork industry.” For more information on Doka’s full range of formwork, and scaffold hire range and services, visit: doka.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The world of building design, development, and maintenance has undergone a remarkable revolution, all thanks to recent strides in the construction industry. These breakthroughs have not only transformed how we create structures, but they’ve also ushered in a new era of enhanced productivity, efficiency, sustainability, and safety within the realm of construction. In the upcoming discussion, we’ll dive deep into the heart of these innovations that have reshaped the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) landscape. Building Information Modelling (BIM) Building Information Modeling (BIM) goes beyond standard 2D drawings by generating a detailed 3D model of a building’s physical features and functional qualities. This dynamic model acts as a storehouse for all project data, including architectural designs, structural systems, and even building timetables. BIM overcomes communication gaps and mitigates possible conflicts early in the project timeline by encouraging interdisciplinary cooperation and real-time data exchange, resulting in better decision-making and fewer mistakes. This virtual environment enables stakeholders to anticipate future disputes, interferences, or design inconsistencies, allowing for time and money savings. It also improves post-construction facility management, since the comprehensive model may be utilised for maintenance, restorations, and future expansions. The adoption of this has far-reaching implications for AEC marketing research; With clients increasingly seeking efficient and cost-effective solutions, construction firms equipped with BIM capabilities have a competitive edge. Marketing strategies can highlight how the collaboration leads to shorter project timelines, reduced change orders, and optimised resource allocation. 3D Printing Traditional building practises are characterised by waste of materials, long procedures, and limited architectural intricacy. 3D printing, which allows for the manufacturing of custom-shaped pieces with less waste and more precision, addresses these concerns. This approach uses a variety of materials, including concrete, polymers, metals, and composite materials, to build structures that are both practical and artistically appealing. Architects and designers may provide prospective clients a physical picture of their ideas by producing accurate physical models. This interactive experience goes beyond traditional 2D representations, allowing potential investors to comprehend the space layout, architectural aesthetics, and finer elements of a concept. As a result, decision-makers will be able to make more informed judgements based on a realistic understanding of the finished product. Trade shows, exhibitions, and presentations are all critical components of AEC’s marketing strategy. By showcasing 3D-printed models of planned projects, renovation businesses may leave a lasting impression on visitors and potential clients. The physical design of these models promotes engagement, discussion, and questions, resulting in enhanced brand exposure and economic possibilities. Drones and UAVs An aerial survey can capture construction sites swiftly and from various angles, taking high-resolution images and videos that provide an unparalleled view of the project’s development. Because it allows organisations to present ongoing projects to potential clients and investors with incredible clarity and detail, visual data becomes a helpful tool for marketing efforts. Drones can create exact topographical maps and 3D models in addition to recording visual data. These digital representations might be used in promotional materials, pitches, and web tours, providing stakeholders with an in-depth view that allows them to visualise the full product. These interactive advertising tactics help a corporation express its vision, technology capabilities, and dedication to innovation. They are also gaining popularity, and their usage in AEC market research ties in neatly with the present emphasis on greener practises. Two of the numerous advantages of employing them during construction include reduced travel time and reduced carbon emissions from fewer site visits. This aligns well with the concept of sustainable values, allowing firms to position themselves as environmentally responsible organisations. Robotics & Automation Businesses in the construction sector may use this trend in their advertising to highlight their forward-thinking culture and commitment to technological innovation. The employment of robotics and automation displays a company’s dedication to staying ahead of industry trends, which may appeal to clients seeking modern and efficient construction solutions. In marketing materials and presentations, demonstrating robotic systems in operation, as well as the benefits they give in terms of time and cost savings, might successfully attract potential consumers and other interested parties. The usage of automated technologies reflects the growing interest in green construction techniques. Marketing efforts might highlight how this optimises resource allocation, lowers waste, and encourages energy savings, while also reinforcing the company’s commitment to environmentally sensitive building practises. This technique not only appeals to environmentally conscious clientele, but it also establishes the AEC firm as an industry leader. Advanced Materials Imagine trying to sell people in a new neighbourhood where the buildings are made of self-healing concrete. This sophisticated material, capable of self-repairing minor cracks, not only protects the building’s lifetime but also appeals to potential purchasers who prioritise low maintenance requirements. AEC marketers may use this unique feature as a key selling factor in their promotional efforts, emphasizing lower repair costs and increased structural robustness. Energy efficiency is another significant component in AEC development, which is why the use of new materials is becoming more widespread. Solar panels and energy-efficient HVAC systems appeal to a growing customer sector that values lower utility costs and environmentally friendly living. AEC marketers equipped with research-backed insights can successfully communicate how these advancements translate into concrete benefits like as lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact. Summary Because of technical breakthroughs like as 3D printing, BIM, and cutting-edge project management systems, builders and engineers now have better, cheaper, and less wasteful alternatives. As these technologies improve and become more widely utilised, we may expect to see a significant shift in the building industry, paving the way for faster, safer, and more sustainable projects.
Tecklenburg succeeds in the digital transformation from a traditional construction company to an award- and prize-winning BIM specialist with software solutions from the Nemetschek Group. In a construction project put out for tender throughout Europe, Tecklenburg was able to prevail over all competitors thanks to its expertise, and implemented the project on time and within budget. Tecklenburg is a sixth-generation building contractor, successful since its inception in 1878. Its fields of activity include public building projects such as police buildings or daycare centers, neighborhood developments, food markets, and private and terraced houses. The Tecklenburg Group acts as investor, project developer, and general contractor in construction projects. In addition to Managing Director Hermann Tecklenburg, Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, coach of the national women’s soccer team, is also a shareholder of the Tecklenburg Group. As Managing Director, Hermann Tecklenburg has always been innovative and willing to permanently develop the company. That is why he decided to introduce Building Information Modeling (BIM) three years ago. The goals were to accelerate planning phases, to be able to identify and correct errors in advance, and to work more efficiently. In addition, model-based working is a mandatory prerequisite for participating in tenders for public buildings. Ultimately, BIM makes a construction company more competitive. One important decision was to specify the BIM tools to be used by external planners, architects, and construction companies. Those who want to be subcontracted by Tecklenburg must, for example, work with the Nemetschek brands Solibri and Allplan. However, the connection to other software solutions is possible thanks to OPEN BIM. 60 percent of the entire planning completed in Allplan The advantages of using BIM solutions from Nemetschek became apparent immediately in the first major BIM-supported construction project: the construction of the district police building in the Rhine-Erft district in North Rhine-Westphalia. Tecklenburg used BIM applications in all project sections and departments: architecture, building physics, structural design, precast plants, building services, costing, construction, and facility management. 60 percent of the entire planning could be done in the planning tool Allplan alone, including the necessary costing and billing. This has led to a shorter planning phase with significantly fewer working hours. Without BIM, three times the time and effort would have been required to design the building. A major advantage of BIM for the entire company is transparency and cross-departmental exchange. This allows sales and costing to see how costs develop over the course of the project and to adjust and optimize their costing for further projects. 7,800 collisions found in advance with Solibri and resolved semi-automatically Tecklenburg relies on Solibri for identifying errors, checking compatibility, and detecting collisions. These quality assurance measures lead to significant cost savings because they avoid changes, construction delays, and the unnecessary consumption of resources. As a result, Tecklenburg was able to find and resolve 7,800 collisions during the planning phase – before they led to costly delays on the construction site. The collision checks don’t even have to be created, because Solibri Office already comes with a library and predefined check rules that can be combined and parameterized as desired. A ticket system is connected to Solibri in order to digitally manage and process quality improvements. In addition, Solibri was also used to compare different design versions and for extensive data analyses. Completion in the middle of the third quarter of 2023 The complete digital planning and control of the construction project could be realized without delays thanks to the corresponding BIM tools in close coordination with the police. As contractually agreed, the building will be handed over in the middle of the third quarter of 2023. The costs also remained within the specified framework – which is typically not a matter of course for public projects. “Thanks to the strategically and conceptually mature approach and the use of Nemetschek’s professional BIM tools, we can hand over the newly constructed building to the district police authority on time. Our client very much appreciated the fact that he was always transparently informed about the status and the next steps,” says BIM manager Manjunath Ambli-Suresh, summarizing the project. Detlef Schneider, CEO of ALLPLAN said: “The use of various BIM tools along the building life cycle of Tecklenburg shows how construction companies can gain security, save costs, and work much more efficiently. In particular, thinking in workflows – instead of silos – significantly increases transparency, collaboration, and thereby efficiency,” Ville Kyytsönen, CEO of Solibri, adds, “It’s great to see how a traditional company like Tecklenburg serves as a pioneer for the digital transformation of the industry.” Hermann Tecklenburg confirms: “For us, introducing BIM right from the start of a major construction project was a gamble, which has been completely worthwhile. As a group of companies, we benefit enormously from the new digital possibilities and are thus able to win new, large construction projects and implement them without delays.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
