BIM in precast concrete construction: First digital, then physical production and installation

Figure: Trimble

If precast components are first produced digitally in detail and then produced and installed physically, errors can be prevented, costs and production and installation times can be optimized

Figure: Trimble

Figure: buildpedia.com

Media disruptions, unnecessary multiple entries, different communications paths, data and software tools as well as lack of consultation between the project participants currently dominate the planning and construction proc-esses. Continuous digital processes minimize media disruptions and error sources

Figure: buildpedia.com

Figure: VDI e.V., BIM-Richtlinien- und Gremienübersicht

International and national BIM process- and data standards simplify the creation, distribution, use and management of BIM data

Figure: VDI e.V., BIM-Richtlinien- und Gremienübersicht

Figure: RIB SAA Software Engineering

Since just in time planning, production, delivery and installation is necessary, timing by 4D BIM is becoming increasingly important

Figure: RIB SAA Software Engineering

Figure: DICAD

Thanks to detailed 3D planning error rates can be lowered, because you can spot discrepancies and collisions better in the model

Figure: DICAD

Figure: Trimble

BIM and Augmented Reality technology make advance or AsBuilt visualizations possible

Figure: Trimble

Figure: DICAD

If BIM data are transferred to ERP programs, this simplifies installation and production planning along with the calculation

Figure: DICAD

Figure: Trimble

Cooperation and coordination between the project participants are the cornerstones of the BIM planning method

Figure: Trimble

Figure: Graphisoft

BIM models together with 3D laser scanners enable installation inspections or checks of desired planning stat-us and actual implementation

Figure: Graphisoft

Figure: ATP/Becker

BIM requires high expenditure in time and training, to a certain extent also new software tools

Figure: ATP/Becker

Figure: Trimble

One of the challenges of the BIM method is the complexity of 3D modeling

Figure: Trimble

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has arrived in precast concrete construction, but it’s not a standard yet. This article provides information about the status of the new planning method in industry, where development is headed and what BIM will be able to do in the future.

In contrast to Finland, Great Britain or the Netherlands, in Germany BIM is still in its infancy. However, it is quite likely that the model-based planning method will become established here also, particularly in precast concrete construction more rapidly than in other sectors of construction. After all, this sector of the business is ideally suited for using BIM with its high degree of technology and close connection with other trades and benefits greatly from it (see BFT International 06/2014: Little or big, closed or open, 3D or 7D?).

For the first time, BIM gives users the opportunity to...