Building Information Modelling (BIM) & Visualisation

What is BIM & Visualisation?

BIM embodies a digital version of the physical and functional aspects of a built asset. A building information model thereby acts as digital resource of data and critical information relating to a specific asset. A BIM can be created at the design stage, and it can also be created for an existing asset using reality capture data.

From a geospatial perspective this entails capturing geometric and non-geometric data of a site/asset throughout its lifecycle and feeding this data back into a model. This supports the work to be undertaken by other stakeholders in the project to which the model relates.

How BIM & Visualisation works

Throughout a project lifecycle, Land Surveys contributes to the BIM process with multiple data capture and processing types.

At the planning and design stages, it captures and derives data of the site by:

  • verifying and modelling cadastral parcels in BIM 2D and 3D;
  • completing visual condition assessments of the site and surrounds;
  • capturing site topography via conventional feature surveys and aerial capture methods;
  • laser scanning and modelling existing structures on site; and
  • locating and verifying the position of subsurface utilities that may affect the design foundations.

In the construction phase Land Surveys would then:

  • set out and verify, via as-built surveys, the spatial properties of the new structure to feedback into the design model for rapid adaption as and when required;
  • develop and maintain an as-built BIM 3D model of all critical design elements;
  • manage clash detection on site through spatial understanding; and
  • capture detailed data of structural, services and fit-out elements using BIM laser and imagery scanning capture.

Throughout the operation and maintenance phase, Land Surveys would constantly update the 3D as-built model with incremental data capture, maintaining currency of data to ensure reliability for all stakeholders. Land Surveys would also add new spatial data and non-spatial metadata as the structure is operated and maintained to extend the value of the digital asset of the site.

Utilising BIM & Visualisation

The use of 3D models and visualisation from BIM processes provides a basis for informed decision making throughout an asset lifecycle from concept through to retirement.

BIM modelling has tangible value to the owner in many scenarios including:

  • Less site visits through a simplified understanding of the characteristics of the asset through visualisation i.e., virtual onsite walkthrough.
  • Simulation and prototyping of uses of the asset (such as airflow in fire emergencies).
  • Using the data as an accurate base model for analytics.
  • Visualising Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and real time building data in a spatial context.
  • Streamlined future maintenance design workflows.

The benefits of using BIM & Visualisation

Intelligent BIM modelling allows clients to visualise building complexities in an interactive 3D environment. Information derived from this, in turn, allows for efficient decision making as to how an asset needs to be managed in the long term. In essence, BIM act as a central hub to which all relevant site data is linked – a single source of truth.

All stakeholders can focus on their core involvement within a project with reduced interruption and waiting for other disciples to conduct their work. This inherently also reduces risky assumptions being made at critical times throughout the project.

Land Surveys can help solve challenges with BIM & Visualisation

The Land Surveys team works to solve challenges for our clients including:

  • avoiding costly downtime caused by critical building components that are built off-site not fitting an existing structure during final installation by;
  • identifying and resolving clashes in building elements before they occur; and
  • ensuring timely as-built data capture to feedback mechanism ensure compliance with critical paths of a project.

Why choose Land Surveys for your BIM & Visualisation requirements?

There are many reasons why you should rely on Land Surveys for your BIM modelling and visualisation requirements. We have a highly experienced and efficient team of data capture and modelling specialists, utilising best-in-class systems, software, methodologies, and customised automated extraction methods to ensure delivery of projects on time and within budgets.

Our processing team has extensive local and national knowledge and experience to undertake BIM 3D modelling or drafting projects to fit within your plan. We have the resources to deliver projects of almost any size in any specified detail, format, or Level of Detail (LOD).

At Land Surveys, we pride ourselves on being technology and platform agnostic and focusing on delivering fit for purpose solutions for our clients’ unique challenges.