Extra! Extra! Engineering – The BIM Structural Design Balancing Act

Rebekah explained that when BIM software Revit emerged as a 3D modeling engine around 2013 it pushed the workflow of the industry miles ahead by putting a detailed 3D model out ahead of design development drawings. Previously, projects would be visualized in 3D and then drawings would then be prepared consisting of 2D plans, elevations, and sections. With projects now being modeled in Revit, Engineers and Designers are creating a complex 3D model with a high level of detail from the start.

Modeling and drafting with Revit, as Rebekah describes it, requires the engineer “to wear two hats: the designer hat where annotations and hatch patterns are correct on the drawings, and the engineer hat modeling and designing structural framing.”

She goes on to explain that the Revit modeling workflow forces the structural engineer to be further along and invest more time into the 3D model on the front end of the project. This calls for more open lines of communication with all parties, beginning from day one. An engineer must ask questions about sections and details during the design development phase of a project. Nailing down items with architects much earlier is essential to a seamless flow in the overall process.

The future of BIM is promising. As the software continues to develop, the structural modeling aspects do as well. Engineer design software companies are also beginning to evolve to work with BIM. Tekla has developed software that allows the engineer to create one 3D model for engineering design, and then to transfer that 3D model into Revit for drawing generation. This eliminates the dual modeling for both structural design and drawing creation. The modeling software and systems are continuing to move forward, and it is beneficial for all engineers and interns to be trained in every step of the process.

Turns out that the BIM dream world scenario where one model interconnects Architects, Engineers, Fabricators, and Contractors, is becoming reality.