Construction project managers can analyze a construction project using a 3D model to optimize the design phases thanks to virtual design and construction (VDC). However, many people need help comprehending the true nature of virtual design and construction because it’s a relatively new technology.
We have outlined the various VDC-related information for your benefit to assist you. Here are some of them:
1. You can use it to organize and control a construction project
In reality, virtually building a construction project before doing so is known as virtual design and construction. Making a 3D model of your project before you start construction will allow you to catch any potential mistakes and improve the structural integrity of your building.
You will significantly lower risks as a result and lower the overall cost of your project.
2. It can stop potential problems from happening
It’s important always to keep the safety of those involved in mind when constructing. Fortunately, the VDC model enables early detection of potential problems that might jeopardize worker safety.
As a result, any risky situations can be avoided before they occur. But this is feasible if the architect, designer, and detailer all consider potential risks that might arise during the project and take precautions to avoid them.
3. Perfect for Future-Proofing
Retrospectively installing devices in a building can cost a lot of money. An engineer should first assess the scope of the work before beginning it. Choosing the modifications to be made to a building is another aspect of remodeling.
When everything is prepared, the construction project will begin, which may cause considerable disruption to the local population.
However, with VDC, future-proofing can be incorporated into a structure even before it is built. Any future construction projects can be drastically reduced thanks to this.
4. This isn’t BIM
VDC is a relatively new technology, so many people mistake it for BIM. That’s not exactly the case, though. Despite being closely related, the two are distinct from one another. 3D modeling of actual objects is a component of BIM (Building Information Modeling). It involves creating an object virtually using related data.
VDC uses BIM models to plan the construction process from beginning to end. In contrast to BIM, it emphasizes the construction planning aspects of the model and incorporates elements like scheduling, budgeting, and cost estimation.
5. Enhancing project costing estimates can benefit from it
Project costing is one of the most difficult obstacles construction managers must overcome when working on large-scale projects. An insignificant mistake in the job cost estimate could make or break a project. However, it can be challenging to develop a precise project costing estimate, and it can also be labor-intensive.
To address this issue, they can use BIM software to extract data from their models and create detailed 3D models via VDC with more precise estimates. Since it keeps a number of important subsystems from being overlooked, this collaborative process enables them to increase the estimations’ accuracy.
Why VDC is Important?
Innovative business leaders are constantly looking for new ways to increase profitability, and profitability is based on providing design and construction professionals with results that are both on time and budget.
VDC is becoming increasingly popular in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). The digital environment allows experts to approach tasks holistically and provides a solid foundation for significant performance improvements. Industry leaders have already switched to a VDC strategy, laying the groundwork for a time when owners only demand results from a cooperative virtual platform.
VDC Enhances Construction Safety
Important safety measures can be planned and communicated to workers on the job site using virtual design and construction. Additionally, it can be used to increase project safety both during the project phase and during the facility operation phase (after the project is finished and the project owner has received the keys).
It is simpler for architects and engineers to practice “Safety by design” thanks to virtual design and construction, which allows them to access a to-scale visual representation of the project environment at any time, identify potentially hazardous job site locations or construction-related risks, and put safety precautions in place to reduce those risks.
VDC Helps Contractors Win More Projects
Construction companies can use virtual design and construction to show off the planning and teamwork abilities necessary to finish the project successfully. Engineers and architects can collaborate using VDC to produce a visual representation of the project to present to the client. Construction companies can demonstrate their expertise and increase the number of projects they win by using integrated models that contain details about the materials that will be used in construction, the procedures that must be followed to achieve the desired outcome, and how those procedures are organized.
Due to the high level of project complexity, the construction industry has one of the most expensive and time-consuming bidding processes. The client reviews the bid, architectural and engineering firms collaborate on a proposal, general and specialized contractors deliver quotes, materials information, other submittals, material suppliers provide pricing, etc., when a construction company submits a bid for a large project.
Conclusion
Presently, a number of construction companies use virtual design and construction to produce eye-catching, comprehensive 3D models as well as early, precise cost estimates and scheduling data. The advantages of VDC become even more apparent once work on the project begins.
