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Using CFD to Optimise Green Building Design

As global warming spreads its tentacles, governments and industries are striving to get things under control again. For the construction industry, the design and creation of green buildings is a major weapon. These buildings need innovative MEP design engineering and a range of proper calculations involving wind analysis and sustainable MEP design to move towards making sustainable building design a widespread reality. Computational fluid dynamics, or CFD, has an integral part to play in the greening of buildings. 

How do we define sustainable building design? 

Building design that epitomises sustainability aims to reduce the need for and use of non-renewable resources, minimise waste of resources and create healthy environments. Sustainability in construction also includes the creation or development of net-zero buildings, or buildings that produce as much energy as they consume, and natural ventilation methods to optimise air quality while eliminating or reducing the use of energy-inefficient HVAC systems.

 As CFD is a mix of fluid dynamics, mathematical calculations and computer science, it offers architects a way to optimise sustainable building design. Prime areas targeted by CFD are:

  ◾ Exhaust system effects on the environment

◾ Fire and smoke risks

◾ Indoor environment quality

◾ Natural ventilation systems

◾ Load calculations for heating/cooling

◾ Exterior wind loading

 For HVAC system issues, CFD proves useful in analysing:

  ◾ Occupants’ thermal comfort

◾ Wind loading analysis on a building

◾ Acoustic path analysis

◾ Airflow equipment

 There are a number of benefits to using CFD analyses for green building design. However, before gathering data for calculations, it’s important to consider:

  ◾ Room depth

◾ Natural ventilation and open spaces for the wind to deflect

◾ Creation of alleys and patios to analyse room thermal pressure

◾ Staggered layouts, which can become seasonal calm zones

◾ Building envelopes at the entrances for proper indoor airflow

 Once these factors are carefully considered and data is collated, CFD analysis can provide:

  ◾ Proper, reliable and affordable representation of fluid dynamics, such as ventilation, wind and smoke

◾ Simulation options without physical testing

◾ Accurate temperature, pressure, velocity data

◾ Easier prediction of fluid movement in advance

◾ Determination and improvement on the efficiency of the HVAC system and indoor air quality

◾ Optimisation of ventilation to maintain a proper temperature

 Maintaining a proper thermal flow and ventilation by designing an effective HVAC system is a fundamental goal in creating a green building.

 As sustainable design gains credibility in global construction milieus, regulatory bodies are laying down guidelines, which may require the adoption of new tools. These tools will show policy compliance and solve energy-efficient design challenges. Using cloud-based simulation lets architects, engineers and other design professionals collaborate efficiently and quickly to make early design decisions.

 Collaborating with cloud-based simulation and CFD simulation can help achieve sustainable design. How does this happen?

  ◾ Building simulation software provides an accurate understanding of the critical relationship between energy needs, policy and a changing climate.

◾ CFD simulates and analyses fluid motion through a series of calculations, enabling designers and engineers to model basic heat transfer methods and study the flow of air and water.

◾ CFD can be used to test and validate design options so building design professionals can determine the right design to help reduce carbon emissions. 

Analysis derived from CFD calculations can contribute to optimising thermal comfort, air quality and the conditions of the microclimate in a building, all leading towards the goal of sustainable design.

 Thermal Comfort:

Various complex factors must be considered by building designers to assess a building’s thermal comfort. Variables may include physical aspects and the effects of climate during different conditions, occupancy rate, air velocity and humidity, all of which directly influence the energy demands of the building and its environmental performance. It can be considerably beneficial to use CFD to determine thermal comfort and measure energy consumption.

 Air Quality:

Simulation analyses and results can indicate and maintain healthy levels of indoor air quality and ventilation efficiency, while reducing energy consumption.

 Microclimate:

The microclimate describes a set of atmospheric conditions that buildings must deal with, such as the effects of wind, sun, other buildings and potential severe weather. The microclimate can have a significant impact on building sustainability. Modelling of the microclimate and wind analysis can help design buildings to ensure occupants’ safety and comfort. 

It is even possible to use CFD to accurately model and evaluate the on-site impact of vegetation. 

As the importance of sustainable building design can only increase in the future, it is vital to find efficient and value-added sustainable MEP design, CFD analysis services and CFD simulation services sourced from reliable CFD consulting services. 

XS CAD has valuable experience providing CFD consulting services, sustainable MEP design, CFD analysis services, CFD simulation services and wind analysis for general contractors.  Our range of services for consultants and manufacturers across the world include HVAC design services.  We create these models and drawings using Revit, AutoCAD and BIM Collaborate Pro for cloud collaboration. 

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Plumbing Design Challenges in the UK

In the United Kingdom, as in many parts of the world, plumbing or public health design has seen changes, advances and new requirements. Creating plumbing and piping plans can be difficult, as a building’s plumbing system typically consists of a complex network of water supply pipes, drainpipes, vent pipes, etc. Effective public health design can be complicated, and if not developed correctly, it can be one of the most expensive systems to repair. Understanding plumbing system design, both commercial plumbing design and residential plumbing design layouts, is one of the challenges of effective public health design..

 Any system that enables the movement of fluids, involving pipes, valves, plumbing fixtures, tanks and other such equipment is called plumbing, or public health services. These systems have a variety of functions, such as:

  ◾ Heating and cooling water

◾ Wastewater removal

◾ Potable cold and hot water supply

◾ Water recovery and treatment

◾ Rainwater, surface and sub-surface water drainage

 One of the challenges for M&E engineers is to have access to precise design information to facilitate the effective planning of M&E systems layout. This is important in case of complex systems, especially in congested areas, which can be challenging to plan during the design stage.

 As Building Information Modelling (BIM) is increasingly used in construction, M&E engineers can have access to critical design information while being part of an efficient building workflow, ultimately resulting in fewer on-site errors and optimum systems design.

 Due to the different types of topography in the UK, the source of water depends on the area where it is required. Types of water sources are:

  ◾ Upland catchment (reservoir)

◾ Ground water (borehole/artisan)

◾ River extraction

 These sources provide water of differing bacterial and physical qualities, such as:

  ◾ Hardness

◾ Bacteria count

◾ Minerals

 To a great degree, these qualities are dependent on the environment, and with the effects of climate change and other looming environmental factors in play, households are hoping that technology will lead the way to greater efficiency in building services.

 Typically defined as the careful management and preservation of natural resources and the environment, environmental conservation takes into account climate change, ozone layer destruction and environmental pollution. These factors now have a considerable impact on building design. Regulations have been put in place to help space heating and hot and cold water services design. There is official support for all initiatives to reduce energy use and increasingly rely on renewable energy sources. Plumbing professionals in the UK are more than up for the challenge of deploying new technological advances to fulfil these requirements.

 Advances in technology have helped public health design in a number of ways, from smart pipes to water heaters without tanks. Plumbing professionals can now connect drain rods and pipe cutters to Wifi-enabled tablets and waterproof cameras. Some of the innovations that plumbing professionals are incorporating into public health services design are:

 Smart Pipe Systems

  ◾ Smart pipe systems, or brain pipes, are part of an increasingly popular home automation system. They help negotiate one of the biggest challenges in plumbing - detecting a leak early enough to prevent a large loss of water.

◾ Smart pipes monitor water pressure and identify the exact location of leaks, helping to repair the system while preventing significant damage. Thus, consumers avoid expensive repair and mould abatement.

 Hands-Free Faucets & Fixtures

  ◾ Mainly seen in airports and luxury hotels, motion sensor faucets are common in public restrooms for being more sanitary and reducing wastage of water.

◾ Now, homeowners are installing hands-free faucets.

◾ Also popular are no-touch toilets. More consumers want ultra-hygienic toilets that allow hands-free usem, resulting in efficient water use (fewer excess flushes).

 Tankless Water Heater Systems

 Tankless water heater systems are so efficient that they can supposedly save more than 25% on annual water bills.

 Smart Shower Heads

  ◾ Today’s shower heads do more than give you decent water pressure.

◾ Advanced shower heads are Bluetooth-enabled to play music, creating a whole new generation of bathroom singers.

◾ High-tech shower heads have LED lights for displays of light and sound.

 Recycling Dishwasher Water

  ◾ Plumbing is changing how dishwashers use water.

◾ Dishwashers save significant amounts of water, and the latest dishwasher technology offers an option that recycles rinse water, reducing water usage by nearly 700 gallons annually.

 Greywater Recycling

  ◾ Greywater recycling technology recycles waste water from the shower and kitchen sink and uses it for gardening.

◾ Installing greywater systems can also reduce water bills and leave a smaller environmental footprint.

 Smart Irrigation Systems

  ◾ These smart irrigation systems track the weather forecast and not water the lawn if rain is expected.

◾ Smart sprinklers turn off automatically during rain, conserving water.

◾ Smart irrigation systems factor in the type of plants, soil conditions and other environmental data to function effectively.

◾ Smart irrigation systems can connect to a mobile app for easy access to the data.

 The systems mentioned above can be cloud-based and can be connected through 3G and 4G wireless networks for precision and reliability. Challenges for plumbing professionals lie in delivering accurate, error-free and efficient design drawings and models to ensure a smooth installation process.

 Challenges to Standard Bathroom Plumbing Layouts

 Plumbing, or public health, design would be somewhat incomplete without discussing bathrooms, the scenes for most design challenges. When redesigning, repairing or renovating existing bathrooms, one of the most challenging situations in the UK involve small spaces. In addition there are a few other common challenges, such as:

 Challenge:

Small bathrooms give professionals little room to work and to fit in the fittings required.

 Solutions:

◾ Plastic fittings mean flexible pipes can be threaded through joists and around corners, without needing joints, making retrofit easier.

◾ Copper or plastic adaptors can be used to extend existing systems.

◾ Plastic components can be installed faster, leading to reduced labour costs.

 Challenge:

Problems due to waste pipe fall are messing up the new layout design.

 Solutions:

◾ Install waste pipes that slope down to ensure the right path for water, such as 10mm fall for every 4m of pipe.

◾ The floor level can be raised to create a void.

◾ Run the wastewater between and below joists, boxing it in at the ceiling level of the room below.

◾ Construct a plinth to raise the bath or shower above floor level and place the pipework below.

 Challenge:

Bathroom remodelling is affected by plumbing in awkward spaces, such as adding a basement bathroom or a bathroom that is far from the main drain.

 Solution:

◾ Typically, bathrooms are connected to a 100mm soil pipe. When this is difficult to do, bathrooms can be installed in awkward spaces with a flexible small-bore waste pipe and a pump with a macerator.

 Challenge:

A power shower’s water is not draining properly, resulting in standing water in the shower tray.

 Solutions:

◾ First, check the waste pipe width, which should be big enough for the increased amount of water generated by a powerful shower.

◾ Use a 50mm waste pipe to handle the high flow rate in a large shower head or a power shower.

 Challenge:

A shower has low water pressure, resulting in a weak, disappointing shower.

 Solutions:

◾ Check the pressure on the hot and cold supply – most shower and tap mixers need 3-bar or more.

◾ Consider a special shower head or a high-pressure electric shower for low water pressure systems.

◾ Install a pump to boost the mains water pressure from a gravity-fed system.

◾ For mixer showers, the combi-boiler must be able to deliver a sufficient hot water flow.

 Challenge:

It takes too long for hot water to reach the faucet, as the bathroom is at the end of a long plumbing run.

 Solution:

◾ Connect a hot water cylinder to the end of the run and instal a bronze pump on the loop, with a timer, so hot water keeps circulating and faucets will provide instant hot water. 

Most of the challenges mentioned above for bathrooms can be solved by adding value to standard bathroom plumbing layouts through the support of high-quality, accurate plumbing design services and plumbing design drawings services. When these services become difficult to source in the UK, many firms are looking for offshore plumbing system design support, both for residential plumbing design layouts and commercial plumbing design. 

XS CAD has valuable experience providing design for plumbing system design and plumbing design drawings services for general contractors and design consultants.  Our range of services for building design firms across the world and specifically in the UK include standard bathroom plumbing layouts, residential plumbing design layouts, commercial plumbing design and other plumbing design services.  We create these models and drawings by using Revit, AutoCAD and BIM Collaborate Pro for cloud collaboration.   

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Hierarchy of Revit Family Creation

XS CAD has created an Infographic on ‘Hierarchy of Revit Family Creation’.

Just as every great building begins with a single brick or plank, designing with Revit begins with a Revit family. Revit family creation is a specialised multi-layered field of expertise in design modelling and drafting. The usefulness of Revit family creation lies in its ability to create uniformity, accurate sizing and depict aesthetics that are precise, while using small models to create larger, more complex ones. Understanding the hierarchy of Revit family modelling and Revit family creation thus becomes a significant factor in effectively creating Revit models.   

Link Source : http://www.xscad.com/blog/infographic-hierarchy-of-revit-family-creation/

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Prefabrication in MEP Systems

XS CAD has created an Infographic on  ‘Prefabrication in MEP Systems ’.  

The infographic contains the types & example of MEP Prefabrication. 

Link Source : http://www.xscad.com/blog/prefabrication-in-mep-systems/

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Advantages of MEP Consultants from India

Having a single source for MEP (M&E) design and coordination – that mainly sums up the main advantage of MEP consultants from India for Western construction. MEP design and MEP coordination effectively being delivered in the shortest time is best served by a single source. Finding that single source will either be with the designer, who also executes coordination, or with a contractor, who also executes design. A single source, therefore, must have additional skills to perform both functions and thus complete the workflow in its entirety. MEP consultants in India can help in this regard by providing the complete design and contracting service required, such as MEP design engineering, BIM modelling, 3D BIM coordination and MEP shop drawing services, for example.

MEP Design

MEP design outputs generally include providing mechanical, electrical, public health and fire protection building services design information (also known as building engineering and architectural engineering) by building services designers and consultants. This design data and information is provided in a comprehensive manner for all design stages, from concept design, design development, tender and construction. The design is typically delivered in BIM format and include spatially coordinated models that contractor and installation teams can install from or use to progress their detailed design and coordination.

MEP Coordination

The above individual designs are incorporated and spatially organised to be install ready in the process known as MEP coordination. Once an intelligent model is sent to the MEP engineers, they can begin working, using the building envelope, rooms and volumes as reference points. With Revit MEP, MEP engineers can determine spaces and zones and can use intelligent data which provides greater detail. The parametric tools will update automatically, and calculations can be more quickly and easily analysed when building designs change. The results are reported and shared across the entire project team. MEP engineers can calculate sizing and pressure loss. Simulation and visualisation tools can predict system behaviour, appearance and connectivity.

MEP coordination thus includes providing spatially coordinated building services drawings for construction and engineering projects, which can be utilised by MEP building services contractors. All building services (HVAC, pipework, public health and electrical systems) are also coordinated with other disciplines contributing to the building fabric and structure (steel, concrete, false ceilings, etc.). This multiservice coordination work is created in a 3D environment for all the disciplines, resulting in several benefits, namely:  

No clashes (validated using clash-detection software tools)

Models are generated, through BIM modelling, with precise representations of all mechanical components/kits

Prevention of site-based delays and disputes, as all services have been proven to work

Ease of communication, since the 3D model can be viewed and enables easy walk-throughs for demos, reviews or value engineering

Faster approval/sign-off (3D BIM modelling allows clients to view detailed areas in 3D).

Verification of 3D MEP coordinated drawings is possible with the help of the latest MEP modelling software Revit MEP, and clash detection in Navisworks has been found to be effective for 3D building services coordination.

Benefits of Single Source for MEP Design and Coordination

When MEP design and MEP collaboration were provided by different sources, several challenges ensued. The adoption of a specific workflow – one where MEP design and MEP coordination are delivered by one designer or one contractor – solved virtually all of these issues, combining design and coordination, aiding installation, commission and fabrication. The end products include models and drawings which are coordinated and ready to install.

Particular advantages with this workflow process are:

The BIM model is started and finished by the same team or firm, saving time and minimising confusion.

The layout strategy (plant and main distribution) is usually adopted first, keeping changes to a minimum.

The designer can consider procurement information, incorporating this data early in the design stage.  

The designer/contractor can then issue a coordinated model.

Additional support for design and coordination is a constant requirement for both designers and contractors. Essentially, India is a vast source of technically qualified MEP professionals, and growing collaboration online with overseas customers over the past decades has groomed a generation of well-qualified, well-experienced, low-cost MEP design human resources now capable of seamless MEP coordination too. The major advantages India’s MEP outsourcing services provide are as follows:  

Thorough understanding of process and requirements

Indian MEP professionals are well versed in delivering designs according to international building and construction standards, global best practices and quality control systems.

Expertise in MEP

India produces high quantities of technically qualified engineers and designers.

Most MEP consultancy firms in India house technical personnel of different disciplines under one roof.

Technical personnel work with the latest CAD technology for drawings and calculations and use BIM 360 Team with Collaboration for Revit (C4R) to create coordinated BIM models.

Experience in MEP

MEP design and coordination professionals have spent several years learning MEP technologies and systems, and they have spent even longer moulding custom-designed MEP solutions, specifically for each client.

Track records for successful solutions and projects by a particular MEP consulting expert can be viewed online.

These firms have a history of delivering 3D BIM and 2D CAD solutions to general contractors, design build contractors, real estate developers, architecture and engineering (AEC) firms with high quality, on time and cost-effectively.

Indian MEP consultancy firms conduct peer reviews, have a customised quality checklist or have automated software-based model checking.

Infrastructure

Overseas MEP consultancy firms house relevant hardware, software, printers, plotters, etc., thus saving this expenditure for Western firms.

The benefits for outsourcing 3D MEP coordinated drawings ultimately result in saving time and cost for Western construction firms. Skilled external partners, especially MEP consultants from India, as a single source can efficiently deliver MEP design and MEP coordination drawings, additional design, BIM activities and responsibilities, including MEP shop drawing services.

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Has BIM Changed MEP Design Workflow?

BIM Influence on MEP Design Workflow

Critical to effective construction, MEP (M&E or mechanical, electrical, plumbing) design is both one of the key features of a structure and also the one design feature that most people don’t want to deal with, unless something goes terribly wrong with any particular aspect of it. This makes it all the more important to make MEP design as precise as possible. Over time, MEP design has improved and evolved in many ways, but with the arrival of BIM (Building Information Modelling) technology, MEP design has seen modifications in its workflow as well. The workflow of MEP design has been significantly influenced by BIM technology, specifically the roles of the MEP designer and the MEP contractor.

Currently, there are five different MEP design workflow scenarios that exist. They are as follows:

Traditional 2D design and 3D BIM coordination

3D MEP design and 3D BIM coordination

Designers 3D BIM design and coordination

Contractor 3D BIM design and coordination

General contractor 3D model coordination

It is the third workflow that Is becoming increasingly popular. Let’s look at why that is so.

Designers 3D BIM MEP Design and Coordination

This MEP design workflow method is a direct consequence of BIM and promotes the benefit of BIM more significantly, as it gets closer to the ‘virtual design and construction’ aims of the industry. In this workflow, the approach of the design engineer is to create a BIM model that is spatially coordinated, using the actual specified components for the project. Typically, the consultant during this phase will have more time to create the model, allowing him to absorb the changes from structural and architectural disciplines as they progress through the detailing stages. Since the model is then coordinated with the structure and architecture as well as other MEP services, the consultant can create a model according to installation standards and which is more usable by an installer or fabricator.

When the model in this workflow method is passed on to a contractor, the contractor may still wish to make final changes and adjustments in a round of value engineering. Typically, the contractor will use the same model in this workflow and make changes to the model provided by the MEP design consultant. Additionally, it is probable that the consultant engineer will not have provided invert (height) levels or dimensions from gridlines and walls for the MEP services on his drawings. In such cases the contractor will therefore have to create more detail in the drawings, but again, the contractor could use the consultant’s drawings and progress them in more detail for his/her use. 

This design workflow will require competent BIM coordination and MEP modelling teams and resources. XS CAD, with its large MEP coordination team and MEP engineering design team, which consists of mechanical and electrical engineering professionals, is well placed to deal with such projects for companies based in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. As all are regions where BIM is now the preferred solution, XS CAD, with more than 16 years’ experience and a presence in each market is an ideal option for such companies.

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How 3D Software Has Changed Architectural Design?

In the past, architectural design plans and drawings were seen as something so artistic that, on occasion, watercolours were used as part of the finishing touches of the 2D design. Drawings were produced with the help of compasses, T-squares, and irregular curves. Architectural design services and processes gradually evolved into a more systemised engineering drafting technique, which saw collaborations resulting in the first CAD/CAM systems designed for the military, automotive, and aerospace industries in the 1960s. The age of 2D CAD dawned in the 1980s. Close on its heels, software rendered realistic 3D models, and Autodesk’s AutoCAD debuted in 1982, offering 3D architectural modelling, digital representation and system development, opening up a whole new world of accuracy, cost effectiveness and realistic visualisation. Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD, Autodesk’s 3D Studio and Revit Technology Corporation's Revit joined the trend soon after, before becoming an Autodesk product itself.

Creating 2D drawings is fast and easy, but the result is still a 2D drawing, which may not be sufficient in some cases. Any change in one drawing had to be modified in other drawings to maintain accuracy and consistency. Increasingly, 3D files, with all the necessary data to develop 3D products, were preferred to 2D drawings. Many companies realise a 3D design is useful in the design stage and can save time and money. Software for 3D models in architecture include AutoCAD, Revit Architecture and Revit in conjunction with BIM.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a process of construction that has a way of altering structures: their appearance, their way of functioning and the way they are built. BIM is a combination of digital, spatial and measurable collaboration. Elements in BIM are loaded with data detailing geometry, material, fire rating, cost, manufacturer, count and any other metadata imaginable. BIM ensures that all project disciplines share a single database: architecture, engineering and construction. Right at the design stage, energy analysis can be carried out and even construction expenses can be calculated.

Plans, sections, details, elevations and schedules are created as interactive 3D models with multiple views using BIM. One of the advantages of BIM models is that any change in one view will translate into all other views. Any element moved or removed from the plan will follow the action in elevation and section views, for example.

In architectural 3D modelling, Revit is widely recognized as one of the most technologically compatible BIM applications. BIM helps control calculations and element interactions in a faster, more accurate and easier way and provides a high volume of information about the building.

Clients benefit from 3D design, as it provides a variety of design options to the design team and client. They are able to view 3D models and change the colors of walls, the style of doors and other elements and also view the results.

Impact of 3D Software on Architectural Design

In architecture design, 3D software widens possibilities in a way 2D solutions are not able to do, such as:

1. Minimise costly mistakes

Software designed for 3D modelling enables the testing of building stress factors and tolerances before construction. This saves time, money and possibly disastrous consequences. Analysis tools can simulate the flow of fluids to measure vibrations in key structural components. Simulations help identify design flaws. Also, 3D printers can ‘print’ 3D CAD files as prototypes, saving the cost of creating prototypes conventionally. Each specific component of a structure can be isolated, tested, analysed or changed in 3D, and this can be done with the assurance that no other components are compromised.

2. Work faster and more efficiently

It takes time to make sure that the plans, sections and elevations concur in 2D CAD, whereas in 3D, a completed model can provide this information faster.

3. Increase accuracy and control

Design views of 3D models can be panned, zoomed and rotated. Detailed information for each project section helps improve calculations and communication, leading to more comprehensive decision-making processes.

4. Improve customer satisfaction and approvals

Clients and prospective clients can experience a virtual tour of buildings with 3D software. Clients can view a polished and interactive visual of the final construction. Firms with a 3D printer can proffer a physical representation of designs to clients rather than wait for factory moulding. Clients can enjoy customised building designs, as design elements can be altered easily in 3D rather than how costly it would have been with just 2D drawings.

5. Offer realistic design views

Rather than understanding horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines of 2D sketches, 3D software enables a combined image of architectural services. Viability of plans and design alterations can be viewed in one image.

6. Enable easy remodelling and corrections

As design changes are easy to view and material information is provided in detail, costs can be calculated to greater accuracy.

7. Positively affect project execution

3D technologies that significantly impact project execution:

Reduction of field interferences

Less rework

Increased productivity

Fewer requests for information

Fewer change orders

Better monitoring of cost growth

Decreased time from start of construction to facility turnover

8. View more of the interiors

Furniture, wall paints and designs, designer ceilings, etc. can be placed within interior views.

Few Widely Used 3D Software Tools:

AutoCAD

Autocad is popular among students and professionals and produces representational drawings, which are often stepping stones to 3D modelling. The user interface can be adjusted to preferences and some experimentation with layers and line weights will produce a design with standard drawings and measurable construction details. AutoCAD Architecture is specifically created for architects. It allows architects to draft more efficiently and create a variety of designs and documents. AutoCAD has layers, such as stairs layer, windows layer, doors layer.

ArchiCAD

An architectural CAD software, this open BIM (Building Information Modelling) software is a complete tool for architects, enabling 3D modelling and visualisation, offering high quality and photorealistic rendering. ArchiCAD modelling allows the storage of large amounts of information in 3D models. It is useful for building design, interiors and urban area design.

SketchUp

When architects create the conceptual phase in 3D, SketchUp enables the quick creation of the design. It is popular for being user friendly, cost effective and having a varied component library. Each object, surface and material has a unique texture. Its rendering capabilities though are limited.

Revit

Revit helps create 3D models, renders and 2D construction documents. Building components such as actual walls, roofs, beams and columns and real-world elements such as windows and doors can be used instead of lines and circles. Compatible with AutoCAD, all alterations made are updated in all views, plans and elevations. Coordination and drawing time is reduced significantly.

Revit 3D modelling produces tables that show the amount of materials required and exactly where they are needed. The material take-offs make for better planning and predictability. Revit Architecture allows the automatic production of schedules of building components, thus improving cost and quantity calculations. As Revit is a 3D software for BIM (Building Information Modeling), it has a collaborative facet, which is a huge advantage. Any stakeholder can access centrally shared models on cloud-based locations, such as Collaboration for Revit and BIM 360, and can make changes and communicate these changes to others in the same project. This helps avoid rework and helps save time.

3D Studio Max

3D Studio Max tools have modelling capabilities and a flexible plugin architecture and can be used on the Microsoft Windows platform. It is used by architects for previsualisation.

AutoCAD Architecture

AutoCAD Architecture by Autodesk allows both 3D and 2D design. Apart from being a great tool for rendering, it can create realistic models with a combination of solid, surface and mesh modelling tools. It also enables easy communication with others on the same project.

Chief Architect

A CAD software for architects, it is useful for 3D rendering and is easy to use. With an intuitive interface, it offers smart tools. It can automatically generate building systems. Additionally, 360° panorama renderings can be exported.

Rhino3D

Rhino 3D is a major player in 3D modelling. Used for industrial design and architecture, Rhino’s geometry creates accurate models. Grasshopper, a graphical algorithm editor designed for 3D geometry in conjunction with Rhino 3D, offers further architectural options.

One of the lasting effects that 3D software advances have had on architectural design is in altering the nature of business processes. As the architectural design services industry evolves and increasing options for 3D modelling software become available, there is greater demand for qualified technical personnel to provide efficient and accurate designs. This sought-after, technically adept human resource is now available overseas in large numbers and at an affordable cost. In an increasingly global business environment, more firms find the use of overseas 3D modelling services beneficial and this trend seems set to continue for some time.

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Why Use Point-Cloud Scans for Architectural & MEP BIM projects?

The use of laser scanning, and in particular point cloud laser scanning has been popular now for a number of years.  Increasing renovation and refurbishment projects, especially for older buildings, means that rather than demolish a building and rebuild on the site, an existing building can be updated, allowing use of the existing facade, while changing the interior to modernise or improve the layout for the uses that are required.

The use of an accurate model to define the ‘existing condition’ of a building before any further design work is undertaken is essential for both, architectural as well as engineering teams.  Until the laser scanning surveys using 3d laser scanning technology were introduced, a physical survey of the building was the only way in which to obtain an accurate survey of a building.

The advent of CAD and BIM technology used during design stages has called for accurate 3D architectural modeling from the start and therefore 3d laser scanning is a much more accurate and useful tool for such purposes.

While considering the benefits for both architectural and MEP projects, the benefit of using point cloud scanning is profound.

Firstly, for an architectural project, there is usually a call for the re-design of the architectural space inside a building. These may be changes, mainly to the internal space may also impact some external aspects, either way, an accurate representation of the current model is required because existing drawings may be outdated or maybe too old to use in the digital environment.  Once a laser scan is completed, the creation of a 3D BIM model for the existing space makes the architectural design much easier. Typically, architects will also use existing plans and information as well as the laser point cloud scan to create the new ‘existing condition’ model, although they will predominantly rely on the laser scan data for creating a new model and associated architectural layout drawings or general arrangements (GA’s).

In most cases, the MEP systems are not taken from an existing laser point scan survey and modelled.  Rather, in most cases, the MEP systems are created from a clear base and are based on a new design altogether to suit the new purposes and uses of the refurbished building.

For building service engineers and BIM modellers, the laser scan model is therefore also extremely useful.  The remainder of this blog focuses on the existing MEP services being completely stripped and therefore not those that may have appeared in the laser point cloud model, allowing for a new set of services to be added.

The importance of 3D architectural modeling created from point cloud laser scan for building services engineers and designers can be summarised as follows;

Awareness of architectural and structural elements - For MEP modelling an accurate architectural model will provide exact information about false ceiling levels, upstand beams, columns heads, external and internal walls.  It will also provide information about riser areas and core services areas.  MEP design engineers will then work around these architectural and structural elements when mapping out their services.

Builders work holes - When planning larger MEP services such as drainage sprinkler and ductwork, an MEP engineer will create builders work or penetration openings in the structure of the building. The point-cloud data for MEP engineers will show existing builders work and penetrations and therefore this information can be helpful. The building services designer may choose to use the existing holes (saving additional work) or request new holes for his/her services to pass through.

The accuracy of drawings – When a 3D BIM model is created, the BIM modeler will also create a number of coordinated drawings and single services drawings. These drawings include dimensions on them and these dimensions, especially for refurbishment projects are usually taken from existing walls and existing slab levels and floor levels.  If the floor levels and all levels are based on an inaccurate model, then the MEP installation will also fail to some extent.  The point cloud model and the accurate dimensions created from the same are therefore of significant value.

As discussed, the use of laser point - cloud 3D survey models for architectural purposes and also MEP services in particular, can be critical for a refurbishment project.  Reliance on the data from the laser scan survey, assuming an accurate 3D model is created from that data, is very important to avoid construction issues and delays.  Compared to legacy drawings, which may or may not have been updated, or traditional manual surveys, the accuracy of laser cloud scans and the models created from the same, will continue to remain an important aspect for modern construction design to meet cost and schedule challenges.

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Understanding Lux Level Requirements for Commercial Lighting Design

Lighting design plays a key role in commercial buildings which are typically used by people to perform a task or conduct an activity. To achieve their tasks or activities in a workspace, the right amount of illuminance is necessary, over-lighting is as much as a hindrance to accomplishing tasks as under-lighting. Commercial lighting compared to industrial or residential lighting involves higher initial costs, higher maintenance, longer durability and lifespan and higher service costs. To identify the illumination level requirements or lux level requirements of a commercial building, it would be useful to understand the units of measurement of illuminance, the intensity or amount of light and the efficacy of the relationship between lux and lumen.

Illuminance or lux is the intensity of the level of light and ‘luminous flux’ or lumen is the amount of light produced. Lux is the unit of measurement usually measured in foot candles, one lumen is the measurement of the intensity of the light output and is equal to one lux across an area of one square meter. Given an area you may need to illuminate, the measurement of lux helps you identify the output or lumen required. Typically, for an office which is brightly lit around 400 lux of illumination is required and an office space which uses 100W incandescent bulbs in ceiling panels would produce 1600 lumens as the output of light. When a lighting design company designs light fixtures for a large commercial area, the number of light fixtures is usually increased to get higher lumen keeping in mind the lux level requirements.

A primary factor in ensuring efficiency in light design is achieved by balancing lux and watts or managing the amount of power used to produce light. The measurement of energy efficiency or the power required for light fixtures (luminaires) to operate is known as watts or wattage. The rate at which a light fixture converts power to light or watts to lumen is known as luminous efficacy and measured in lumens per watt (LPW). Typically, an office or commercial space with ceiling panels which would use 32W T5 or T8 fluorescent lamps would usually produce 50 lumens/watt.

Lux level requirements are calculated to determine the appropriate number of lights, the type of light fixtures and the best possible commercial lighting solution, based on the size of the office or commercial space, the type of task or activity which will be conducted and the energy efficiency standards required.

In most cases, based on the client requirements of lux levels, office spaces are over-lit and are usually more than rates mentioned in the lighting standard codes and guidelines developed by professional lighting bodies. Lighting consultants and MEP engineering design teams while keeping in mind client requirements must also consider lighting codes and guidelines which mention the minimum lux level requirements that need to be maintained. Several lighting professional bodies have published handbooks and guidelines, some of which include lighting guides published by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) in the UK, the IESNA Lighting Handbook by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America and guides and lighting codes provided by the Lighting Council Australia.

To improve energy efficiency and reduce consumption, several countries have presented lighting codes and green building solutions which have made lighting manufacturers develop higher energy efficient light fittings. For offices and commercial spaces, the stipulated lighting watts/m2 is considered to be within the range of 10 to 15 watts/m2. With the increase in the use of LED light fixtures, lighting consultants are required to maintain lighting watts within the range of 5 to 8 watts/m2, while maintaining lux level requirements.

To ensure commercial lighting designs provide higher energy efficiency, lower energy consumption and better control on energy usage, lighting consultants and MEP engineering design teams must consider trending lighting solutions in the industry. From LED fixtures with advanced lighting controls, energy harvesting technologies, interactive lighting to connected lighting, there are several trends which a lighting design company could use to provide high energy-efficiency and customer-centricity in lighting design solutions for commercial spaces.

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The Challenges of Incorporating Home Design Option Changes in Construction Drawings

The increase in buying power due to access to credit, lower interest and the increase in disposable income, has led to an increase in demand for housing in the homebuilding industry. Buyers now demand custom built homes and home design options according to their requirements and budget. To remain competitive in the market, as homebuilders you must address the challenge of meeting these demands and provide several home design options to buyers.

The inevitability of providing home design options has led to a key challenge of creating construction drawings for houses on each design option variation. Every home design option must be reflected in the construction drawing sets including the elevations, sections and plans. This leads to several challenges from dealing with issues of space when redesigning, maintaining variations of several drawing sheets, difficulty in modifying 2D drawing sets, adherence to building code requirements and the lack of experienced resources.

The Challenges of Incorporating Home Design Option Changes

Whether you are a homebuilder, architect or designer, changes in home design options present several challenges. When incorporating design option changes in residential construction drawing sets, some of the challenges you must consider include:

1.  Dealing with issues of space – To accommodate additional design options, in a few cases there is an issue due to lack of space. When redesigning, you need to optimally utilise space to incorporate design options, whether it is adding a garage or porch, making windows and doors bigger or widening a living room space.

2.  Maintaining variations of several drawing sheets – To accommodate home design options, you need to create variations of residential construction drawings. A separate drawing is required when you add a space or modify an existing one, this leads to maintaining variations of additional sheets for one design making rework time-consuming.

3.  Difficulty in modifying 2D drawing sets – When compared to working with 3D models, 2D drawing sets which are still used, pose a challenge in detecting flaws and coordinating changes. Given the accuracy required to incorporate changes in design options, you need to have precise 2D drawings to make modifications, or it could possibly cost you the time, money and resources invested in the project.

4.  Lack of experienced resources – To identify the best possible approach when incorporating home design option changes, an experienced team of Revit technicians is necessary. To accommodate design option changes efficiently and cost-effectively, experienced designers are required and the lack of available resources could be a challenge.

5.  Adherence to building code requirements – In home design and redesign, there are several building code requirements that are considered such as standards for size, structure, usage, wall assemblies, floor assemblies, roof structures, mechanical, electrical and plumbing, lighting and energy efficiency standards. A change in home design such as widening a living room space could impact other design elements such as the width of staircase, which may not meet building code requirements and therefore would require complete redesign making it a challenge.

6. Keeping pace with new building requirements and trends – From energy saving designs to home automation, there are new building requirements and trends which you must consider when designing homes. Home designs today must be created keeping in mind trends and requirements such as designing homes which are high on energy efficiency and low on consumption or designs which accommodate home automation devices. Keeping pace with home design trends and requirements when incorporating home option changes could be a challenge.

Given the challenges in incorporating home design option changes, some of the ways in which you can deal with design changes include involving key project stakeholders to facilitate better project management, using database-driven applications to ensure accuracy, managing libraries to maintain several drawings and changes and utilising an experienced team.

At XS CAD, our design team provides documentation and production drawing services for new home designs and new plan updates and 3D interactive plans which allow users to view design options for a selected house design. We work seamlessly with local project teams to provide customised construction drawings for houses, according to design options selected by buyers, and provide a consolidated construction drawing set with all design options incorporated. You can cost effectively utilise our dedicated team of experienced designers to get customised residential construction drawings for design option variations, according to the requirement of your buyers in order to stay competitive in the homebuilding industry.

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Outsourcing Retail 3D Rendering Process

Visualising a retail space from a specification drawing is difficult, but with rendered 3D retail images it is possible to get a clear picture of what it will feel like.  If you are planning to construct new stores or refurbish existing stores, retail 3D rendering is useful to provide contractors with photorealistic views to help them understand what the space will look like even before it is constructed. For sellers of retail space, retail 3d rendering also serves as a useful marketing tool.

Offshoring 3D Architectural Rendering Services has become a preferred option owing to the benefits of faster turnaround times, lower costs and access to a dedicated team of skilled renderers. However, it is important to understand the process to ensure you choose the right strategic partner before offshoring.

The retail 3D rendering process typically begins with creating a 3D model, adding textures, setting camera angles, adjusting lighting, adding landscape features, rendering the image and adding final touches in the post production stage, to create a final, photorealistic image.

1.   Modeling – To make the 3D rendering process simple and quick, it is important to begin with creating a virtual 3D model. Based on the plans, sketches or drawings you provide, a virtual 3D model needs to be designed using 3D modeling software such as Revit. This 3D model is then exported to 3Ds Max for texturing.

2.   Texturing – To the 3D model, 3D renderers or artists then add images and textures to make it look realistic. To add vibrancy to the retail experience, the perspective can be transformed by adding colour, surface texture such as concrete, bricks or wood, signage, awning and interior photographs of the retail space.

3.   Lighting – To highlight focal areas and set the tone of a retail space, the right type of lighting plays an important role. Lighting manipulation with tools such as Photoshop, adds depth by not only illuminating areas, but by creating reflections and shadows as well, giving the image a photo-realistic touch.

4.   Landscaping – To allow users to experience and appreciate the surroundings of the retail space, it is important to view a retail space as it will be in its actual environment. By adding elements such as plants, trees, people, clouds, neighbouring buildings and other features, it brings an image to life.

5.   Camera Angles – An interior space can be viewed in the right dimension based on the setting of camera angles.  Adjusting camera angles is one way of making rendered 3D retail images more engaging. A wide-angle shot is not necessarily an appropriate choice for all images, as it can distort the view and distract the focus of the image. Normally you need to decide on the camera angles in the beginning of the project, to ensure that standard views of the retail space are set for renders across the entire project.

6.   Rendering- The final stage of rendering involves the pixelwise creation of textural, spatial and lighting specifications that are represented mathematically. The output you will get at this stage is a photo-realistic rendered image. Once you get a pilot render, a thorough review is required and clear feedback must be provided.

7.   Post Production – Once the raw render is approved, the final touches will be added. Adjustments such as colour grading, vignetting, contrast, chromatic aberration and film grain effects can be added using Photoshop to make the final image as photo-realistic as possible.

To make outsourcing of 3D Architectural Rendering Services successful, you need to understand the process and have clarity about your expectations. This will help in reducing the time taken for revisions, lowering costs, accelerating construction design and making design reviews and approvals quicker. To gain substantial cost savings compared to what you may incur for maintaining an in-house team, using a dedicated offshore team and finding the right strategic partner to offshore retail 3D architectural rendering services is the most preferred solution.

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XS CAD has created an infographic on ‘using outsourcing firms for Home Building Design’ This infographic highlights:-

what are the key considerations while hiring an outsourcing firm,

The benefits it can offer,

Industry facts and what are the typical questions asked by a home builder before outsourcing their design requirements.

In addition, the core services offered and the software used by XS CAD in home building design are also mentioned in the infographic.

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MEP Coordination is a key element of MEP design and is concerned with spatial configuration and layout of building services trades (HVAC, pipe work, public health and electrical systems).  It also takes into account the location of elements from other disciplines such as architecture and structure.

Why is it Important?

- MEP coordinated drawings help the contractor to fit and install building services on site.

- It resolves clashes during the pre-construction stage which results in time and cost savings when on site.

Key Considerations:

- Clash detection of MEP (M&E) services with other MEP (M&E) services as well as architectural and structural elements.

- Performance and insulation are taken into consideration when laying out the services.

- Service access and access locations are considered for post installation maintenance.

-Bracketing and hanger locations are considered and sometimes modelled to ensure fitting on site.

MEP Coordination Software

AutoCAD MEP

Navisworks

Revit     MEP      

Fabrication     MEP

Collaboration     For Revit

BIM 360

Responsibility For Coordination

Traditionally, MEP Coordination has been handled by contractors.  The advent of BIM and BIM output requirements for consultants has changed that.

Consultants creating BIM models have to overcome challenges including:

-       Upgrading to 3D software and training teams for delivery in 3D.

-       Sharing models with other disciplines earlier in the process.

-       Increased accountability of their models due to collaboration.

-       Developing spatial strategies for vertical and horizontal areas earlier in the process.

-       Understanding installation requirements for a more effective layout.

Collectively these challenges are helping to produce a more coordination solution during the design phase.  3D BIM modeling at the consultant stage also increases the MEP Coordination workload.

Increased MEP Coordination = Skills Shortages = Use of External Coordination Experts

MEP Coordination Experts

Services Provided to Consultants                                                                                

•       Interference-free 3D models.

•       Design drawings for all key areas.

•       Design schematics.                                                                            

 Services Provided to Contractors

•       Installation standard 3D models.  

•       Installation drawings with sizes, dimensions and levels.

•       Builderswork / penetration drawings.

•       Manufacturing and spool drawings.

MEP Coordination Skills & Knowledge

•       Technical specifications for equipment being used in the model.

•       Industry standards and regional code standards.

•       Software knowledge and application.

•       Client specific standards for model and drawing output.

•       Project specific schedules and timing for phasing deliverables.

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Benefits of using Revit Architecture for 3D Renders

Autodesk Revit was introduced well over a decade ago, it is software for architects, designers, MEP engineers, structural engineers and contractors. Over the years, Revit adoption has progressed rapidly in the AEC industry, which in itself has seen revolutionary developments in the same period.

Revit is available in many packages, which includes, Autodesk Revit Architecture and Autodesk Revit MEP, amongst others. Autodesk Revit Architecture provides an array of tools required for projects across a range of architectural sectors, including home building and retail  along with the ability to prepare 3D renders. It is a tool extensively used by companies providing Architectural CAD Services, Architectural Drafting Service and Architectural 3D Rendering Services.

Revit architecture utilises parametric design processes which enable seamless modification of a related environment whenever an element in the adjacent environment is changed, thus maintaining continuity within a single project file. One of the more recent tools of Revit architecture is its ability to generate 3D renders, as 3D renders enable architects, consultants and associated professionals to present their design ideas and  architectural vision through 3D images to clients and associated project stakeholders. The main highlight of architectural rendering using Revit Architecture is its capability to augment visualisation and facilitate the creation of 3D views.

Listed below are a few of the features and benefits of using Revit Architecture for 3D renders:

• Precise sun settings in the renders –  Revit Architecture carries settings to produce accurate colour reproduction  such as proper set up of lighting and materials. Exterior daytime renders are  created by using sun setting option, allowing to create a precise sun angle and  position relative to the building. Revit Architecture also accurately portrays the  sunlight for specific locations around the world, by just stating time and date  with the desired location in the settings.

• Accurate production of Resolution -  Based upon client requirements and the end use of the image, the resolution  of rendered images can be selected. If the rendered image is going to be  used for a large presentation board then a high resolution setting can be  selected and for a relatively small image, where the level of detail is less, a  lower resolution setting can be selected.

• Comparatively quicker than the competition -  The majority of the competitive rendering engines utilise a high amount of  CPU memory and also require advanced GPU’s, which ultimately results in a  lot of time consumption to produce high quality renders. Revit Architecture is  fine tuned to utilise less CPU memory and in most cases does not require a  GPU to handle complex scenes and lightings, improving the overall efficiency  and creating high resolution renders in significantly less time. • Higher reliability ratio - Due to advanced settings that provide the best performance under varied settings,  Revit Architecture creates renders with high resolution in much less time, where similar rendering engines fail to create renders of lower resolution. Hence, along with providing an optimum output, Revit Architecture is a highly reliable tool to create high quality 3D renders.

• Variety of tool options - Revit Architecture comes  with a variety of tool options, such as a visualisation related ‘election tool’  in the ‘View’ panel on the ‘Modify’ tab. There are many more similar tools available on Revit Architecture which can be useful for various tasks other than creating renders.

Revit Architecture is becoming one of the more versatile tools for overall design modeling and documentation.  The ability to generate 3D renders using an array of options has broadened the appeal and use of the tool for architects and designers.. There are a variety of additional benefits of using Revit Architecture for 3D Renders other than the few listed above, which are updated in every new iteration of the software, making it a sought after tool for designers around the world..

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Why BIM is becoming important for Retail Design?

Across global the retail markets are facing unprecedented challenges from within their sector and also from new e-commerce sectors.  Retailers that are successful are aware that this success can be short lived and therefore expansion and roll out of their outlets can sometimes become a limitation for success are aware that Assuming that the challenge is indeed speed to market, for retailers, it is paramount to adopt a design planning process which can help them develop retail ideas that are versatile, clash-free and efficient to build/install within a planned budget.  This is where BIM can start to provide significant benefits due to the ease of operation, use of a database of library items and the benefit of repeatability of the design concept.

BIM can be beneficial for the entire retail property development chain from design consultants and architects, to MEP installers and facility managers. If it is used effectively it can lead to faster scale up, design accuracy, higher design flexibility and cost efficiency. Whilst it does take some take and effort to convert conventional CAD drafting processes, blocks and templates to parametric BIM retail design techniques, once done BIM can help retailers to design faster and more accurately.  A few of the key benefits of retail design with BIM are discussed in more detail below.

Rapid Development of Design and Construction Documents

Conventional CAD drafting techniques for building design require different trades to create separate drawings, which sometimes stack up too many inconsistent documents as they are incomplete, usually without a lot of information that may be created by other skilled parties, such as quantity surveyors.  This information is usually mandatory for building construction and includes specifications, bill of materials, cost modelling and schedule data. Not only does a BIM model provide this data, freeing up QS (quantity surveyor) resource, it also provides information from the 3d model that contains intelligent data related to design intent and construction and facilities management information. The major stakeholders will typically receive the data that is combined within a master BIM model to then extract further use and benefit from the design model.

Although the success of retail BIM projects depends on the acceptance levels of all the project participants to perceive BIM as a future-ready tool, the actual benefit of BIM lies in its ability to assist in extraction of various documents, data and views including plans, sections, elevations, renderings, bill of quantities (BOQ), material costs and time schedule, all within record time. All this results in quicker, on-demand data extraction and generation from BIM models for any construction-related designs or drawings.

Development of Standardized Re-usable BIM Families To maintain consistency, a retailer may use typical fixtures and fittings across their retail network as retail industry primarily focuses on brand image and brand appearance. Retail design teams, with the help of BIM teams, are able to create standardized libraries of BIM for fixtures and fittings which, with further modifications can be used when designing and planning new outlets, thus enabling retail owners to maintain exclusivity with regards to visual elements, consumer experiences and shoplifting layouts. The design team, keeps BIM libraries updated for various unique outlet chains which help in saving time during conceptual and detail design stages whilst boosting efficiency ratios.

For example, consistency within all the outlets can be maintained by keeping the key retail architectural elements uniform with the help of BIM families which leaves scope for tweaking other architectural details and regional elements.

Creating Store Prototype Models that Can Be Localized When developing new prototype store designs, BIM proves to be a valuable asset to retailers BIM prototypes not only offer 3D visualization prowess but also provide a quality database which consists of detailed information on crucial aspects such as materials, fixtures, components, cost estimation and quantity take-offs. As compared to traditional CAD drafting methods, intuitive and elaborate prototypes like these, accelerate the roll out of new store designs.

In summary, using design standards, fixtures, fittings and brand guidelines in a BIM environment as opposed to a CAD environment may incur an up-front cost and time contribution, but the benefit for mass roll out using a library of intelligent components will significantly reduce overall design time and also improve accuracy of project drawings and project data - providing greater certainly for construction teams and also costing teams.

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Top 3 Benefits when Undertaking MEP Design and MEP BIM Services from Single Service Provider

Every building project requires MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) design services for heating, cooling, lighting and water services increasingly these aims are met with a more sustainable approach. MEP design services that are designed properly bring the full array of building services solutions to prospective clients and can also benefit from an environmentally friendly approach to design. There are various stages in the MEP design process which is known as MEP design engineering, which is itself supported by a team of documentation and modelling experts to provide MEP drafting, MEP 3D Modelling, 3D MEP clash detection and resolution and BIM MEP modelling for every stage of the design process. 

Moving from concept, schematic, design development, tender and construction phases of the MEP design process requires several iterations that need to be managed well and documented effectively to improve understanding and communication of the project at later stages. Keeping in mind the complexity to coordinate MEP with the architectural and structural direction of the project, it can be best to design MEP in 3D rather than in 2D, as it provides a better picture of what a structure may look like. Also, it takes away the effort of bringing together different 2D views. 

While MEP design can sometimes be an afterthought, lagging behind architecture and structural design, MEP BIM models generally form the core element of a BIM model, which is great for visualisation, but also produces construction documents like those created in 2D CAD drafting albeit with much more accuracy and in much less time. MEP 3D Modelling makes extensive use of BIM and is used to increase the coordination process but it also allows designers to review their designs and to adapt them to meet the challenges posed by client needs and environmental or sustainable requirements. Not only does a 3D MEP Coordination approach bring significant improvements to the installation process, improving the transition between design and construction, it also allows designers to visualise, test and revise their design in a working model, making effective use of the virtual design process.

 As MEP Design and MEP Modelling are so intertwined, it makes sense to seek a provider that is able to provide both services in some cases. At present, there are several companies in the market from where various MEP services can be outsourced. Different companies have their own level of expertise in the services they offer but it all boils down to the choice of the clients as to who offers the best possible management of the key aspects such as time, cost and the overall MEP process beginning from design to installation sheets. In the wake of such a situation it is increasingly necessary for companies to offer as design and drafting services under one roof to optimise the level of coordination and cut down the collective time spent on different services. This has given rise to a few companies beginning to offer MEP Design and MEP BIM services as a part of combined package. Of these, the most popular MEP services on offer from a single company is a package of MEP Design for schematic and tender stages along with MEP BIM services for documentation of these stages but also of further detailed design (spatial coordination) stages typically undertaken by contractors. Here we look at the three prime benefits of undertaking MEP Design and MEP BIM Services from single service provider:

1. Time Saving and Cost Effective:

Very often it is seen that an MEP design services firm does not have the luxury of investing in in-house MEP modelling and an extensive MEP Design Engineering team to cater to the various MEP stages involved. Hence, it becomes a need to outsource the MEP design and MEP BIM services from service provides. More importantly, to obtain these services from a single, all-inclusive service provider to increase the level of competency and the set of benefits which are drastically reduced if the services are outsourced from different service providers. The fragmentation can add up a considerable cost, valuable time is lost on part of the clients. Hence, by obtaining these services from single service provider saves a lot of time and the considerable cost as well.

2. Clash Management:

More than time and cost savings, undertaking these services from a single service provider can result in improved coordination of MEP services through the production of a coordinated, clash free virtual model. It enables early identification and rectification of coordinated issues, resulting in the reduction of installation time and costs. It reduces waste of man-hours by reducing the requirement for site based modifications.

3. Improved Efficiency and Smooth Transition:

One of the most important but underrated features of BIM is automated generation of Bill of Materials (BOMs). Undertaking MEP design and MEP BIM services from a single service provider ensures the automated generation of the Bill of Materials (BOMs) enabling accurate data management and extraction which will be otherwise obtained from the MEP BIM services provider in case of a fragmented choice of service providers. It also improves the overall efficiency of on-site service installation and the overall quality, detail and accuracy of MEP documentation. Having these services under one roof ensures smooth transition of the process from MEP design to MEP modelling without any delays or undue errors. MEP design services can be managed in various ways in-house but with external options now also available, the key to finding an outsourcing partner rather than handling the work in-house, will be the ability of the outsourcing partner to efficiently communicate and coordinate with the different levels of design teams to ensure a balanced and smooth implementation of all the aspects of the design and modelling process ideally from a single office and therefore from a single partner.

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10 Reasons to Use Revit MEP for MEP Coordination

Autodesk Revit MEP is an important component used for design by the AEC industry. Globally, AEC firms are increasingly using Revit MEP to produce 3D M&E (MEP) coordinated drawings, and Revit MEP tools to update their BIM models with MEP information, and thus, enhance their architectural and engineering design development and construction documentation process. Businesses using Revit MEP are starting to realise the potential of this technology to deliver more value to the AEC industry and also manage their own budgets and profitability at the same time. Before we look at the reasons to use Revit MEP for MEP coordination, let’s briefly cover the subject of Autodesk Revit MEP for MEP coordination. Autodesk Revit MEP for MEP Coordination Autodesk Revit MEP, a building information modelling (BIM) software is a leading Autodesk product that is used by users engaging in MEP engineering projects. MEP is an acronym for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing which forms the three engineering disciplines addressed by Revit MEP. Using BIM software rather than CAD (computer aided drafting), Revit MEP consists of dynamic information in the form of intelligent models, letting complex building systems to be precisely designed and documented in a shorter amount of time. Within Revit MEP there are a series of intelligent models that combine to form a complete project, all stored in a single database file. With this, the changes made in one part of the model can then be automatically propagated to other parts of the model, thus reducing the timeframe to alter designs during the design process. As far as MEP coordination is concerned, it involves coordination of all building services (HVAC, pipework, public health and electrical systems) with other disciplines making up the structure of the building, fabric and external envelope, i.e. steel, concrete, false ceilings, etc. Having refreshed our memories with Autodesk Revit MEP, let us focus on the reasons why it is useful for MEP coordination. There are of course many reasons, however a few are listed below that will hopefully demonstrate the value of this tool for coordination. 10 Reasons to Use Revit MEP for MEP Coordination The top 10 reasons to use Revit MEP during MEP design and coordination are summarised below:

Revit MEP produces high end building information models that represent realistic, real time design scenarios, helping users to make more informed design decisions earlier in the process. The team working on the project can better meet goals and sustainability initiatives, execute energy analysis, examine system loads, and produce heating and cooling load reports with native integrated analysis tools

Revit MEP software’s modelling and layout tools let engineers create mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems more easily and precisely. Also, the software’s parametric change technology means that any change to the MEP model is automatically coordinated throughout the model

The complexities of today’s buildings require leading edge system’s and engineering tools to optimize performance in both use and efficiency. As complexities increase in the projects, communicating design changes among MEP engineers and their extended teams is critical. Revit MEP’s purpose built systems analysis and optimization tools lets team members receive feedback about their MEP designs in real time, resulting in better performing designs in the process

Using Revit MEP, the MEP engineers can more effectively collaborate and interact based on workflow and project requirements through use of a range of compatible collaboration tools such as BIM360. The software also helps to minimize design coordination errors among the extended project team, and helps to reduce design conflicts with real time clash and interference detection.

In Revit MEP, all model information is stored in a single, coordinated database. Revisions and modifications to information are automatically updated throughout the model, helping to significantly reduce errors and omissions. Autodesk refers to this database driven simultaneous update to file output as multi-directional associatively which explains that a change in one area manifests in all other parts of the file.

Parametric components, also called families, are the basis for all building components designed in Revit MEP. These components provide an open graphical system for design thinking and form making and offer the opportunity to adjust and express design intent at increasingly detailed levels.

Revit MEP software is a much more streamlined and intuitive user interface that is easier to learn and adopt. Users can thus find favourite tools and commands faster, identify tools more efficiently, and discover relevant new features easily.

Revit MEP works holistically, treating information in terms of entire building, linking mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems with the building model - thus increasing collaborative working and a team based approach to projects.

Revit MEP updates model views and sheets, thus helping to maintain document and project consistency. With its help MEP engineers can for example, create HVAC systems with mechanical functionality and offer 3D modelling for ductwork and piping.

Revit MEP has built in calculators that allows MEP engineers to execute sizing and pressure loss calculations as per the industry standard methods and specifications

At XS CAD, we have developed the required expertise and extensive knowledge of providing Revit 3D BIM Modelling and MEP coordination drawings services to MEP engineers, MEP consultants and MEP trade contractors in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and India. To learn more about our Revit MEP Services, drop us an email or call us for more information.