Technology : Software & I.T. News

Fusion moves closer to MMC future with StrucSoft Solutions’ MWF Pro Metal

Fusion Building Systems, the offsite designer, engineer, manufacturer and installer of light gauge steel superstructures can now provide its clients with ‘as manufactured’ digital models of their completed structures, thanks to its integration of MWF Pro Metal software from StrucSoft Solutions. Running as an add-on to the widely-used Revit design

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New training facility boosts BIM training opportunities for architects

Architects are set to benefit from a new ARCHICAD training facility following the relocation of Graphisoft UK’s training centre in Nottingham. The new facility based at Castlebridge Office Village in Nottingham offers a bright and spacious training space, ideally suited to the needs of delegates. The central location of the

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McAvoy Uses BIM Technology on School Project

McAvoy has delivered its latest project – a new school building at West Hill School for Surrey County Council, built using the BIM technology and manufactured offsite to reduce disruption. The scheme links the traditionally-constructed main building and an existing modular classroom block on a highly constrained, fully operational school

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Exploring the virtual world ~ VR and BIM: a winning combination

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,

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Space Architects Are the Winners of the BIM Awards 2018

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

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Graham Construction to Receive Double BIM

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

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Managing time critical for big project success, reveals the CIOB

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,

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Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

Commercial : Software & I.T. News

Fusion moves closer to MMC future with StrucSoft Solutions’ MWF Pro Metal

Fusion Building Systems, the offsite designer, engineer, manufacturer and installer of light gauge steel superstructures can now provide its clients with ‘as manufactured’ digital models of their completed structures, thanks to its integration of MWF Pro Metal software from StrucSoft Solutions. Running as an add-on to the widely-used Revit design platform, Fusion has invested in MWF Pro Metal to help its construction clients achieve the highest possible degree of accuracy in their projects and have a clear understanding of the finished structure before the offsite manufacturing process begins. By using MWF Pro Metal, just about every element of the design for consideration can be reviewed in detail prior to sign off, then directly instructed to Fusion’s roll-forming equipment at its Northampton manufacturing facility, producing structures which are precise according to design. Robert Clark, Fusion head of business development, said: “For offsite methods to become widely adopted by the construction industry we need to shift from a project by project approach, to one which is led by the product. BIM is the enabler for this. “By integrating StrucSoft Solutions’ MWF Pro Metal into our design, engineering and manufacturing processes, we’re encouraging our clients to focus their attention on the overall product and in doing so, moving closer to the future of MMC.”  Fusion had previously been running a bespoke software solution called FusionSoft, which was ahead of its time when first developed. Now outdated and not BIM-ready, StrucSoft Solutions’ MWF Pro was chosen as Fusion’s new platform for integration with Revit and to enable the Company to work to an enviable degree of technical accuracy. Used day to day in Fusion’s design and manufacturing processes, StrucSoft Solutions’ MWF Pro Metal will enable the automated creation of walls and floors, the accurate design of cutbacks and openings around thousands of M&E locations, structural intersections and accessories, as well as allowing Fusion’s engineers to specify directly into the Revit model. Byron Starnes, StrucSoft Solutions’ EMEA business development manager, added: “We created Fusion’s software solution just for them, tailored to the way they build and allowing them to take advantage of the most modern and up to date software solutions for their digital engineering requirements. Their investment in our product marks a revolutionary overhaul of their existing ICT solution, having an emphasis on greater design efficiencies, accuracy and collaboration – especially as it pertains to the design and manufacturing of the bespoke and patented Fusion system.” MWF Pro Metal utilises the built-in intelligence of Revit to automate the creation of light gauge steel framing across virtually any construction project. Developed in conjunction with industry experts, MWF Pro Metal’s automated tools allow users to easily frame entire projects while simultaneously creating schedules, material cut lists, framing elevations and fully dimensioned 2D shop drawings. The tool of choice for professionals framing everything from bathroom pods, right up to billion-dollar healthcare projects.  StrucSoft Solutions provided Fusion with initial training on MWF Pro Metal at their Liverpool office and will continue to provide ongoing review work and updates as the solution matures. For further information visit www.fusionbuild.com and www.strucsoftsolutions.com

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McAVOY USES AWARD-WINNING BIM TECHNOLOGY FOR COMPLEX OFFSITE SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECT FOR SURREY COUNTY COUNCIL

Offsite construction specialist, The McAvoy Group, has handed over a new school building at West Hill School in Leatherhead, bringing the number of education projects now completed by McAvoy for Surrey County Council to more than 40.  The project at West Hill – an Ofsted outstanding special school – featured extensive use of BIM to help address the complexities of the site. It was manufactured offsite to reduce disruption and was ready for occupation on time and after less than eight months on site. The scheme links the traditionally-constructed main building and an existing modular classroom block on a highly constrained, fully operational school site. The new building expands the teaching spaces for children with learning and additional needs. These are to accommodate West Hill School’s conversion from secondary education provision to a 2FE primary school. An offsite solution was developed to build a teacher training centre on the upper floor as West Hill is also a Teaching School and National Support School. McAvoy has now completed over 40 education building projects for Surrey County Council – ranging from single classroom buildings to a £5m nursery, infant and junior school extension at Danetree Primary School near Epsom. Both of the existing school buildings at West Hill remained in use throughout McAvoy’s construction of the new facilities. The offsite solution avoided any disruption to teaching and the children despite the site constraints. 28 steel-framed modules were installed in just four days and McAvoy restricted working times to maintain access and accommodate the children’s arrival at and departure from school. Commenting on the project, Judy Nettleton, Head Teacher at West Hill School, said, “The offsite solution generated massive time savings which were invaluable from an educational perspective. The McAvoy team had outstanding communications throughout, and their work was well planned and highly respectful of the challenges we were facing, both as a special needs school and in the transition from secondary to primary education.” “McAvoy was able to accommodate an urgent requirement for an extra floor and our new teacher training facility is a brilliant resource. This space could easily be converted into three additional classrooms if we need to expand capacity in the future. The building has a high level of acoustics which is key for a special school to avoid disruption to children’s education, and the size of the hygiene rooms, the wider corridors and breakout spaces for individual and small group learning are all invaluable features.” Giorgia diSarno, Project Manager at Surrey County Council, said, “We had a very positive experience working with McAvoy on this scheme. Their site management was excellent and they communicated brilliantly with the school which was so important in enabling the teachers to prepare the children. This is vital when carrying out construction works at an SEN school. The finished building is great and was designed according to the special needs nature of the school. Classrooms are light, airy and welcoming.” “On this project, offsite construction allowed us to develop a bespoke building with the benefits of better quality control in a factory environment. It was essential to reduce time on site to avoid disruption to the school. A shorter construction period on site is hugely beneficial to any school but particularly to special needs children. McAvoy was also able to add value to the project and inform its design by being involved at the project’s inception. This allowed the addition of a further storey.” McAvoy made extensive use of BIM for the West Hill project to engineer an offsite solution that would accommodate a height difference of 870mm between the main school and the existing modular teaching block. Gradient differences were incorporated within corridors to avoid steps, using a specially-engineered double floor beam design which also maximised offsite construction. Challenging ground conditions required complex piled foundations and a supporting steel frame. Here 3D modelling was invaluable to better inform the groundworks and module installation phases. BIM also facilitated decision making with stakeholders, with the use of 3D models and virtual reality, rather than traditional 2D line drawings. The school was able to see each room and experience the space. It allowed teaching staff to assess how the training centre could work located as a second storey to the new classroom block rather than as a freestanding building which was originally envisaged. In recognition of its industry-leading application of BIM technology for the West Hill School project, McAvoy won the RICS BIM4SME Award for Best Virtual Reality BIM. As West Hill is a school for children with special educational needs and located near the M25 motorway network and under a flight path, the building specification demanded outstanding acoustics. McAvoy developed a twin modular wall system and a specially-designed offsite roof solution to achieve the enhanced acoustic performance. The building was also required to be mechanically ventilated and this equipment had to meet the noise sensitivities of the children. Other design features of the building to address the needs of learning and additional needs included: Wider corridors to help children who have mobility or balance issues Break-out rooms to allow different learning needs and styles to be accommodated for smaller numbers of children Hygiene rooms equipped with a hoist to assist children in wheelchairs Provision for hoists in two classrooms and for further hoists to be installed in other areas around the building Ease of access between the new building and the existing facilities, and to the external play areas A high level of acoustics to avoid disruption to children’s learning. The new facilities accommodate a food technology classroom, an open plan library, group rooms and classrooms with direct access to the outdoors. The building has created a covered and controlled link between the main building and the existing teaching block, and a new courtyard provides a secure play area where a sensory garden will be developed. McAvoy was also responsible for some alterations to the school’s existing facilities to accommodate the change from secondary to primary education. For further information about offsite solutions

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New training facility boosts BIM training opportunities for architects

Architects are set to benefit from a new ARCHICAD training facility following the relocation of Graphisoft UK’s training centre in Nottingham. The new facility based at Castlebridge Office Village in Nottingham offers a bright and spacious training space, ideally suited to the needs of delegates. The central location of the venue is also convenient with good transport links nearby. “It was great to start in our new premises. We’ve received some brilliant feedback from delegates who have already attended courses at our new facility,” said Gemma Sewell, support and training manager at Graphisoft UK. “We have a team of six highly-experienced support staff who provide our customers with personalised technical support. The additional space and open plan layout will allow us to work more closely together and will enable us to grow our team as necessary so that we can continue to provide a high level of service,” she added. According to Brendan Sexton, BIM manager at maber, an architectural practice headquartered in Nottingham, “It’s often best to take time out of the office to fully concentrate on learning new skills. Graphisoft’s new training facility is the ideal environment to do just that. As always, the standard of training by the Graphisoft team is exceptional, and with the new facility we expect to be frequent visitors over the coming months.” Training groups are kept to a maximum of six delegates to allow the courses and trainers to focus on individual requirements. Graphisoft offers several training courses tailored to suit the needs of architects with varying degrees of knowledge about ARCHICAD. All courses include a mixture of discussions, exercises and assessments to help trainees develop skills in ARCHICAD. The essentials course introduces delegates to the principles of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and demonstrates positive and productive ways to use the software. The advanced course goes beyond the essentials, showing delegates the most productive ways to use all ARCHICAD’s tools and covers workflows, templates and documentation. Bespoke training courses are also available, which allow courses to be tailored to the specific requirements of the customer. Find out more about training with Graphisoft at: http://www.graphisoft.com/training/training-courses/  

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McAvoy Uses BIM Technology on School Project

McAvoy has delivered its latest project – a new school building at West Hill School for Surrey County Council, built using the BIM technology and manufactured offsite to reduce disruption. The scheme links the traditionally-constructed main building and an existing modular classroom block on a highly constrained, fully operational school site. It was ready for occupation on time and after less than eight months on site. The new building expands the teaching space for children with learning disabilities and it will accommodate West Hill School’s conversion from secondary education provision to a 2FE primary school. Throughout McAvoy’s construction of the new facilities, both of the existing school buildings remained in use. The offsite solution avoided any disruption to teaching and the children despite the site constraints. 28 steel-framed modules were installed in just four days and McAvoy restricted working times to maintain access and accommodate the children’s arrival at and departure from school. “We had a very positive experience working with McAvoy on this scheme. Their site management was excellent and they communicated brilliantly with the school which was so important in enabling the teachers to prepare the children. This is vital when carrying out construction works at an SEN school. The finished building is great and was designed according to the special needs nature of the school. Classrooms are light, airy and welcoming,” said Giorgia diSarno, project manager at Surrey County Council. McAvoy has now completed over 40 education building projects for Surrey County Council, ranging from single classroom buildings to a £5 million nursery, infant and junior school extension at Danetree Primary School near Epsom. By using the BIM technology, the school was able to see each room and experience the space. It allowed teaching staff to assess how the training centre could work located as a second storey to the new classroom block rather than as a freestanding building which was originally envisaged. In recognition of its industry-leading application of BIM technology for the West Hill School project, McAvoy won the RICS BIM4SME Award for Best Virtual Reality BIM.

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SimScale Announces a Free Webinar on Using Computational Fluid Dynamics for Air Conditioning Design

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.

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Exploring the virtual world ~ VR and BIM: a winning combination

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.

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Space Architects Are the Winners of the BIM Awards 2018

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.

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Graphisoft spearheads Irish construction industry move with new BIM software partnership

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

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Graham Construction to Receive Double BIM

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.

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Managing time critical for big project success, reveals the CIOB

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.

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