SimScale, the world’s first provider of cloud-based engineering simulation solutions, has announced an upcoming webinar to teach HVAC system designers and mechanical engineers how to predict and improve thermal comfort, energy efficiency and performance of their designs. The webinar will be presented on March 27, 2018 at 5:00 PM CET
Since its inception in 1957, virtual reality (VR) has been used for a multitude of purposes, from computer gaming and music videos to training simulations and product prototyping. Manufacturing is the latest industry to take the plunge as it incorporates virtual worlds into building information modelling (BIM). Here, Glyn Shawcross,
BIM Awards 2018, part of BIM Show Live in Newcastle upon Tyne, has announced Space Architects as the winners of the ‘Doing It: Architect’ category. Space Architects have been using digital construction methods to improve their workflows since 2001 when they purchased their first copy of Revit and now they
As the Irish Government sets out its strategy for Building Information Modelling (BIM) to be used in the design, construction and operation of all public building projects, BIM software developer Graphisoft is boosting its presence in the country with the announcement of a new channel partnership. Graphisoft has signed a
Graham Construction has become the first UK and Ireland contractor to be awarded a double BIM certification due to the fact that it has incorporated BIM across its construction business and has trained more than 500 people on its team in the technology. The company achieved the BSI Kitemark certification
New best practice guide sets new standard for time management in building and civil engineering projects in the latest publication from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). Delayed completion affects all project based industries in all countries and the bigger the project, the more damage delayed completion causes to costs,
As a method of documenting, storing and sharing every detail about a construction project, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is fast becoming an industry standard. Its most recognisable feature might be the creation of technically-accurate 3D models, but BIM is really about having a single platform from which all stakeholders and
The UK’s largest specialist cold roll-forming company, voestalpine Metsec plc, has been awarded the BSI Kitemark BS8541 for library objects for architecture, engineering and construction from the British Standards Institution (BSI). The Kitemark relates to the management and production of BIM objects and associated product data in accordance with BS
Explore Offsite Outlooks, in partnership with BRE, will look into the latest innovations and understand which way is the best to implement the technological advancements into an offsite strategy. The one day conference and exhibition invites clients and their professional advisers, contractors and project managers and offsite technology suppliers to
Saint-Gobain Weber is known for its dedication to train people in the specification and application of their innovative and market leading materials. Those in need can access a team of technical advisors that will give them information on the correct use of the diverse product offering, wither over the telephone
SimScale, the world’s first provider of cloud-based engineering simulation solutions, has announced an upcoming webinar to teach HVAC system designers and mechanical engineers how to predict and improve thermal comfort, energy efficiency and performance of their designs. The webinar will be presented on March 27, 2018 at 5:00 PM CET (11:00 AM ET). Diverse building codes and strict sustainability and energy efficiency requirements are driving the need for new innovative air conditioning strategies. Traditional design methods—such as hand calculations—involve many simplifications and assumptions, limiting the accuracy of the results. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, on the other hand, enable engineers to virtually analyze multiple HVAC system design configurations, visualizing the differences in flow velocity, density, and thermal impact, making it easier to accurately identify the best solutions. Nonetheless, until recently many engineering companies have been slow to adopt the technology, citing restrictions such as cost, unreliability, and inaccessibility. Although it can save weeks of design time and thousands of dollars in costs, engineering simulation has been expensive to use itself, requiring investments of over $40k in hardware and licenses of on-premises software. The emergence of easy-to-use cloud-based solutions have challenged the status-quo in recent years. Based in Germany, SimScale makes very complex simulations easily accessible via a standard web browser. With a free Community account, anyone in the world can set up and run multiple simulations, then post-process the results using a basic laptop or PC with an Internet connection. Today, more and more engineers are integrating cloud-based CFD into their design validation process which enables them to design comfortable environments at a reasonable cost. “We are moving forward from times when it was enough to calculate air volume in-out balance to ensure comfort in an office space,” said Dr. Pawel Sosnowski, Customer Success Engineer at SimScale. “With CAE tools provided by SimScale you can bring your ventilation design to the new era of engineering.” In this 30-minute webinar on March 27th, participants will learn how CFD simulation in the cloud can help air conditioning system designers ensure compliance with energy efficiency and thermal comfort standards, such as ASHRAE 90.2 and ASHRAE 55, and obtain a detailed overview of the air circulation within a building, essential for optimizing their designs. No prior simulation knowledge is required to participate, and SimScale provides free access to its CFD software via the Community account. Register here for this free webinar taking place on March 27th, at 11:00 AM ET / 5:00 PM CET. If you cannot participate in the live session, the organizers will be sending the recording to all registrants by email.
Since its inception in 1957, virtual reality (VR) has been used for a multitude of purposes, from computer gaming and music videos to training simulations and product prototyping. Manufacturing is the latest industry to take the plunge as it incorporates virtual worlds into building information modelling (BIM). Here, Glyn Shawcross, group design manager at engineering solutions provider Boulting Group, explains the practicalities and benefits of VR and BIM. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a collaborative way of working underpinned by digital technologies (3D modelling) which allows for more efficient methods of designing, delivering and maintaining physical built assets throughout their entire life cycle. In 2011, the Government Construction Strategy (GCS) outlined a new mandate, stating that all centrally procured Government projects would need to include BIM as part of the documentation process. Since the deadline of 2016, other sectors have adopted the same mandate as a way of changing behaviours in the industry. Once the 3D model has been generated this can be exported and converted to VR friendly software. Boulting Group has been incorporating BIM into the design and build of its projects for a number of years. But what’s next? Contractors are now looking to take BIM one step further by incorporating VR into the modelling process, bringing with it a host of new possibilities. The briefing stage While line drawings and 3D diagrams help the client to visualise the finished project, VR creates a truly immersive experience, allowing them to explore their new working environment before work even begins. By doing so, any necessary changes to design can be implemented much earlier, saving both time and money. With high-precision infrared sensors that allow for enhanced tracking and rotation, VR can accurately replicate an entire building, providing both contractors and clients with a far greater perspective of the project than any computer screen or print-out. Safer project delivery and completion The ability to create simulated site scenarios can improve project safety significantly. By virtually walking round a site before work commences contractors can see exactly how the various elements of the build connect, ensuring they do not create hazards, avoiding possible expensive mistakes. Following the completion of a project, the VR environment still has its uses. By being incorporated into the client’s training programme, VR can allow employees to explore their new workplace and be trained on equipment and processes before starting work. This is another time and money saving exercise that ensures staff are ready to start work straight away. Industry 4.0 has led the manufacturing sector to great strides forward as new technologies continue to create endless possibilities for the industry. As VR becomes more accessible, we’re positive we will see more projects adopt the technology. While BIM benefits greatly from its application, this is just the tip of the iceberg.
BIM Awards 2018, part of BIM Show Live in Newcastle upon Tyne, has announced Space Architects as the winners of the ‘Doing It: Architect’ category. Space Architects have been using digital construction methods to improve their workflows since 2001 when they purchased their first copy of Revit and now they are seen as pioneers in the digital construction industry. “BIM is changing the way we design, construct and manage buildings. At Space Architects we have always strived to stay ahead of the curve and lead the way with regards to innovation and best practice. To be recognised for our achievements at the BIM Awards is an honour and a compliment to the team here at Space Architects,” said Paul Broadfoot, Director at Space Architects. All of Space Architects’ projects follow the principles of the Government’s strict Level 2 BIM mandate and, in addition, the company has also established a specialist consultancy called BIM.Technologies that has worked on high profile projects such as the Vauxhall Sky Gardens, London Design Museum and Centre Court 2 at Wimbledon. Back in 2005, they were believed to be the only practices in the UK adopting the BIM technology when they completed the design of Washington School using 3D modelling in Revit. Five years later, BIM became their central strategy and Space Architects has gone from strength to strength since then. They have been active in the promotion of BIM for over 15 years and have effectively encouraged others to adopt the practice to raise the standard across the industry. Space Architects is part of Space Group and were founded by Arnold Waring and Leonard Netts in Newcastle-upon- Tyne in 1957. The practice was recognised for its quality social housing and, as a result, its work grew steadily in size and scope. Today they are known for their specialist knowledge and experience in the design of buildings for education, commercial and health sectors and cemented its reputation with an award-winning portfolio.
As the Irish Government sets out its strategy for Building Information Modelling (BIM) to be used in the design, construction and operation of all public building projects, BIM software developer Graphisoft is boosting its presence in the country with the announcement of a new channel partnership. Graphisoft has signed a new reseller agreement with Irish software licensing specialist AxonWare, to meet increased demand for BIM software in the Irish design and construction industry. Dan McGovern, managing director of AxonWare said that they are expanding their portfolio and adding much-needed BIM capability to their product range. “With the addition of Graphisoft’s intuitive BIM software, ARCHICAD, we will be able to offer better service and more choice for architects, architectural technicians and BIM managers in Ireland,” McGovern said. “Given the Government’s announcement of new BIM requirements for public buildings and infrastructure projects in Ireland, we are now ideally placed to help our customers deliver projects that meet the new standards,” he added. Adrian Girling, managing director of Graphisoft UK, said: “The Irish construction market continues to post positive results and Graphisoft is increasing its investments and activities in the local market. “Ireland is a key element to our UK and Ireland business and we are committed to mirroring our success in the UK and expanding our customer base in Ireland.” On 21 November 2017, the Irish Government announced that as part of its digital technology strategy, BIM will be required for the design, construction and operation of all public buildings and infrastructure on a phased basis over the next four years. http://www.graphisoft.com
Graham Construction has become the first UK and Ireland contractor to be awarded a double BIM certification due to the fact that it has incorporated BIM across its construction business and has trained more than 500 people on its team in the technology. The company achieved the BSI Kitemark certification for both BIM Design and Construction (PAS 1192-2) and BIM Asset Management (PAS 1192-3). Some of the projects that use BIM are the Baird & Anchor Hospitals on behalf of NHS Grampian, the framework for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in Richmond, London, and the University of Reading’s Thames Valley Science Park development in Shinfield, Reading. “Embedding BIM into our everyday business practices has been a priority at Graham. We are using the growing volume of information on construction projects to make smarter decisions, control costs and deliver consistently excellent projects,” explained Melanie Dawson, head of BIM at Graham Construction. Additionally, she argues that BIM is improving efficiency in the supply chain, which not only benefits the company but the clients as well. “More importantly it gives our clients and stakeholders the confidence and assurance that we will deliver consistent excellence from project inception through construction and into asset management.” Gavin Summerson, senior certification manager at BSI explains that the BSI BIM Kitemark is the most difficult test on the implementation of BIM that an organisation can take and for this reason, Graham should be very proud for achieving it. “Not only have they demonstrated the delivery of BIM projects during the design and construction phase in accordance with PAS 1192-2, they have also demonstrated that they are continuing to work to BIM level 2 at the asset management phase, in accordance with PAS 1192-3,” said Gavin Summerson.
New best practice guide sets new standard for time management in building and civil engineering projects in the latest publication from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). Delayed completion affects all project based industries in all countries and the bigger the project, the more damage delayed completion causes to costs, reputation and sometimes even to the survival of the contracting parties themselves. First published in 2010, the Guide to Good Practice in the Management of Time in Major Projects was an integral part of the CIOB’s strategy to provide standards, education, training and accreditation in time management. The latest edition, published today (26th February) emphasises dynamic, strategic time modelling as the way to manage time and cost in major projects. “On major projects the failure strategically to manage time so often proves disastrous, not just for the contractor but also for the client, its consultants, and for the rest of the supply chain,” said Keith Pickavance, author and Past President of the CIOB. “This Guide is a step-by-step illustration of how the parties can work collaboratively to meet this challenge using traditional project procurement routes or the most advanced BIM, from the adoption of a workable time-management strategy through to the day to day detail of risk management, using a predictive time model.” The publication includes new materials, such as a chapter distinguishing the principal features of the dynamic time model and its development throughout the life of a project, from inception to completion. It also includes new appendices covering matters such as complexity in construction and engineering projects, productivity guides and a number of case studies. The publication is the ideal handbook for project and program management professionals working in civil engineering and construction projects, including those from contractors, clients and project management consultants. For more information and to purchase this latest publication, visit Wiley. Please note members receive a 20% discount off this purchase.
As a method of documenting, storing and sharing every detail about a construction project, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is fast becoming an industry standard. Its most recognisable feature might be the creation of technically-accurate 3D models, but BIM is really about having a single platform from which all stakeholders and contractors can work collaboratively. Every piece of information about the building – from construction forecasts to budgeting – is compiled in one place, allowing clear communication between parties. BIM allows each team working on the project to optimise their processes, facilitates better handovers and ensures the latest information can be accessed by everyone in the supply chain. For a better idea about how this integration can benefit a large-scale construction project, we’ve looked at the benefits of BIM for fire safety. The primary concerns for fire-safety design are minimising the risk of injury or death to those inside and outside the building, as well as preserving as much of the structure and its contents as possible. Fire-safety planning should look at methods for prevention, containment and escape for those inside. Prevention Passive fire protection is essential in preventing a fire from breaking out, and is typically integrated into a project at the design stage. While it is impossible to prevent all forms of ignition (common causes being natural phenomena, technological failure and human carelessness), taking steps to minimise the risk and reduce the amount of fuel available in the event of a fire is not. Common preventative measures include: Relocating potential ignition sources so there is more space between them; Improving the insulation between potential ignition sources (e.g. kitchens, plant rooms etc.) and fuel; Comparing the level of fire resistance for specific building elements; Reducing the number of combustible materials in the interior or exterior design; Installing a dedicated lightning protection system; Maintaining a formal record of fire risk assessments. Using a BIM model is the simplest way for stakeholders to assess a building’s collective vulnerabilities, and work together to minimise them without impacting its functionality. Even once the design stage is complete, the information remains attached to the model so that future occupants and building management can fully understand the high-risk areas of their building. Containment In the event of a fire, it’s important that flames and smoke can be appropriately contained so that occupants can escape from harm. Building design should ensure that fires can be contained within the smallest possible area so that there is minimal threat to life and property. All buildings must meet a certain duration of fire resistance, depending on their size. Most non-residential properties in the UK require at least 60 minutes of compartmentalised fire resistance. Key containment measures include: Self-closing fire doors, actuated when alarms are triggered; Smoke curtains – automated or permanent barriers which drop from the ceiling and confine smoke to a certain area; Fire sprinkler systems; Strategically placed fire extinguishers, fire blankets and other safety equipment; Active venting for smoke to filter outside (rather than through the building). Co-ordinating different detection and containment measures can be difficult at the best of times, but BIM makes it easier for collaborators to visualise the space and work out the most efficient placement. With engineers, designers and health and safety specialists all having access to the plan, fire safety measures can be installed to ensure both cost-effectiveness and maximum coverage. Escape The ultimate goal of fire safety design is ensuring that all lives are protected if a blaze should break out. In some cases, this relies on confinement to a safe area but in most situations occupants will need to make their way to an exit. High-capacity escape routes are the ideal solution, however complex layouts may mean that alternative exits should be considered. Using BIM, designers, engineers and building managers can easily: Calculate and visualise the most effective escape routes for each area of the property; Plan how people with reduced mobility can safely exit take refuge; Understand the building’s resistance to collapse and how it would affect other internal and external services to the property (e.g. fire sprinkler systems or emergency vehicle access); Identify safe points for evacuation; Define the best routes for firefighting personnel. The benefits of BIM extend to emergency services, insurance providers and many other parties, who can use the collated information to navigate the building safely and reliably. Not only does BIM help to streamline the design and construction of a building, it makes it easier to effectively plan and carry out life-saving measures such as fire safety.
The UK’s largest specialist cold roll-forming company, voestalpine Metsec plc, has been awarded the BSI Kitemark BS8541 for library objects for architecture, engineering and construction from the British Standards Institution (BSI). The Kitemark relates to the management and production of BIM objects and associated product data in accordance with BS 8541-1, BS 8541-3 and BS 8451-4. After becoming the first tier two organisation globally to receive Kitemark PAS 1192-2 for BIM in late 2016, the certification now makes Metsec the first cold roll-forming company globally to be awarded both Kitemarks, proving the company’s commitment to helping customers deliver projects at the design and construction phase, saving time and costs. An audit of Metsec’s complete range of models was carried out by the BSI to achieve the certification and ensure all the data and files within the BIM models are correct and a true representation of its product range. The audit also included assessing Metsec’s processes when creating new BIM models to validate the functionality of the information. The models are able to be downloaded from both the Metsec website and BIM Store as Revit files, meaning they are able to be added straight into a BIM design model easily and quickly. To date, all models for Metsec’s Purlins and Framing divisions are complete and able to be downloaded with the Cable Management models to follow in 2018. Altogether this represents around 13,200 models that Metsec has created. The certification gives customers complete confidence during design, construction and asset management stages whilst also reducing risk and the required number of checks as the processes and products have been endorsed as reliable and robust. As a result, costs for expensive rework to rectify mistakes made at the design stage can be avoided. Alan Harris, quality manager at Metsec, said: “BIM is becoming increasingly important throughout the global construction landscape and we’re committed to going above and beyond with our BIM offering, as this accreditation highlights. “The Kitemark for our BIM models acts as a seal of approval and highlights our objective to adopt the highest industry standards and use cutting-edge technology to further strengthen our position as market leader.”
Explore Offsite Outlooks, in partnership with BRE, will look into the latest innovations and understand which way is the best to implement the technological advancements into an offsite strategy. The one day conference and exhibition invites clients and their professional advisers, contractors and project managers and offsite technology suppliers to network with industry experts and discuss the latest developments in digital construction for the offsite sector. BIM has been a debatable subject in recent years and whether driving greater collaboration across the disciplines of architecture, engineering, manufacturing and construction is the right approach, is still unknown. The construction industry has been slower than other industry when it comes to digital transformation and it needs to catch up. Last year, McAvoy was presented with the award for Best Virtual Reality BIM at the third annual RICS BIM4SME Awards, for the design and delivery of a two-storey primary school building for children with special educational needs at West Hill School for Surrey County Council. The new school will incorporate classrooms, teaching training areas, a food technology room, a library, and staffroom, and will connect two separate buildings on the site, with a height difference of 870mm. To offset the height difference in the existing buildings, McAvoy was able to incorporate a ramped gradient within the design, nullifying it. “We are absolutely thrilled that our industry-leading commitment and investment in BIM has been recognised in this way. McAvoy was the first offsite construction specialist to be accredited to BIM Level 2 – which was a major achievement. We are now working towards BIM Level 3 as we really value the efficiency benefits that the process and the latest virtual reality technology can bring to our customers and our offsite projects,” said Eugene Lynch, Managing Director at The McAvoy Group. This achievement and how they implemented the BIM will be discussed at the conference, hoping to inspire and help others to do the same.
Saint-Gobain Weber is known for its dedication to train people in the specification and application of their innovative and market leading materials. Those in need can access a team of technical advisors that will give them information on the correct use of the diverse product offering, wither over the telephone or on site. Additionally, they have now created a YouTube channel where they post a diverse range of ‘How To’ videos, specifically designed for specifiers and applicators that are not able to attend a related course at the academy. The videos address some of the most frequently raised technical enquiries received by Weber, such as external wall insulation systems, flooring products, renders, and tile preparation. Weber’s most recent video approaches the problem of the growth of algae, bacteria, fungus, and mould on external surfaces including render and brickwork, experienced in the UK and Europe. It illustrates how to remove it using the high performance weber CL150. “This is an easy to use water-based masonry wash containing carefully selected biocides to clean and sterilise substrates,” said Rob Speke, Training Academy Manager at Saint-Gobain Weber. The weber CL150 must be applied undiluted to a dry substrate, saturating the affected area with the use of a brush or sprayer. If the problem is more advanced, agitate the surface with a nylon bristle brush which will speed up the process and improve the results. The algae will be killed in 48 hours and the treated area will need jet washing at low pressure. In case of more severe situations, the process can be repeated. “Once treated the substrate will be protected for a considerable period although in areas of high algae growth, such as north facing walls with limited sunlight, it is advisable to repeat the process every few years to maintain best aesthetics,” said Rob. The video can be found here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EdI4XaJYUY and is one of the 30 currently posted ‘How To’ videos.
