BIM is a process for creating and managing information on a construction project throughout its whole life cycle. BIM technology enables the creation of three-dimensional digital models of objects that contain all relevant information about design, materials, technical specifications, schedules and other aspects of the project.
BIM is used for the integration and analysis of all information related to a construction project. It facilitates cooperation among different stakeholders, improves communication and decision-making, and enables efficient planning, construction, and facility management. BIM is increasingly used in the architecture and construction industry to improve productivity, project quality, save time, and reduce costs.
BIM has been an integral part of Walter AEC for more than 12 years and only recently there has been an uptick in the regional popularity and use of this technology. Walter AEC is a market leader in BIM consulting and engineering services with over 12 years of experience in the field. However, BIM recently has started to gain greater recognition and popularity in our region.
Given the increasing popularity, we aimed to share practical examples of the benefits of BIM with all our readers through a real-world project. This project involves creating BIM models and effectively managing BIM projects for a hotel located on the Croatian coast.
With this task, as a more intricate component, we had to convert the conceptual project into a model. From there, in collaboration with the leading architects, we developed the main project. The BIM project gradually evolved from the initial creation of the BIM model for the existing part of the old factory building, which was originally built in 1911.
As part of the main project, our responsibilities also encompassed the creation of formwork plans. We utilized Autodesk Revit for developing the BIM model.
We used the previously created architectural model in Revit as a reference for the formwork plans, linking it as a basis. This approach ensured that any changes made to the architectural model were seamlessly integrated into the formwork plans.
From the very beginning of the model development, we took care that the elements were assigned the appropriate category (whether they were non-structural or load-bearing) and ensured the correct allocation of material.
Since all concrete elements had their appropriate materials assigned, it was easy to choose only those elements for the final representation on the formwork plans, which saved us additional time in re-drawing the same elements.
Based on the 3D model, Revit independently configures sections and views depending on where we place them. Changes made to the 3D model are automatically updated in other views.
For the formwork drawings, we utilized previously created templates, assigned them new display parameters, and added cross-sections where necessary, all of which were eventually presented on one common sheet.
In this case, the benefits of BIM, particularly Revit, are very clear. Additionally, to provide a better understanding of the situation in our market regarding the adoption and acceptance of BIM methodologies, we also present another concrete example where BIM served as a platform for further development and expansion into the international market.
During 2014, Lukavac Cement Company developed its brand ‘Lukavac Beton’ with the aim of entering the market for fresh transport concrete. Part of this plan involved the introduction of modern digital technologies, including Building Information Modeling (BIM), which positioned the Lukavac Beton brand among the ranks of major global manufacturers digitizing their products in BIM.
For this initiative Lukavac Cement chose the company Walter AEC, whose task included the complete creation of a solution for the digitization of various cement products in BIM, including the development of the Autodesk Revit digital format for the products offered by the Lukavac Beton brand.
Walter AEC developed 14 Lukavac Beton products, now available in a digital format, each having their thermal, physical, and visual characteristics. This makes them accessible to architects, builders, and investors worldwide.
In addition to the basic concrete brands for non-reinforced and reinforced concrete structures, Walter AEC has also developed a digital version of other types of concrete, including those reinforced with fiber, weather-resistant concrete, freeze-resistant concrete, VDP concrete, and more.