We utlize 3D models in Coordination & Collison Detection:

The saying "A picture is worth a thousand words" is never more true than in construction. Whether referring to a print or attempting to make a point concerning a problem area, people in the construction business use pictures and diagrams to convey concepts.

Some of the most difficult concepts to share are those that involve complex spatial relationships. Some of these relationships result in conflicts, 3D detailed drawings offer the best opportunity for us to resolve differences in these difficult areas. The most important reason to rely on 3D drawings is that they accurately represent the actual state of the completed project as presented in the prints. This is also known as 3D "modeling" and is used to insure a predictable progression of the project from initial concept to actual implementation and eventual completion.The part of the implementation we're most interested in are the mechanical systems and of these, the most problematic is the ducting because of it's size and pervasive nature (it occurs virtually everywhere in the project). This alert gives us a "heads up" that allows us to inform the engineer of a design problem and to more easily suggest appropriate corrective action. The global benefits are that we are not "surprised" by situations that we didn't see, the project timetable isn't impacted because of lead-time for re-fabrication.

The chief argument against using 3D techniques that one hears most often is that it "takes longer" to do than 2D drawings. This isn't necessarily the case, An experienced detailer can actually save time uilizing the tools available for 3D modeling. The only additional requirements to 3D (to make it effective) are that we have to draw the structural and architectural features we wish to collision-check against - this just makes good sense anyway, regardless of dimensional mode.

Do detailed 3D detailed drawings add to my job cost? No! 3D detailed drawings are a more efficient for planning, and installation. Project detailing should pay for itself in system streamlining, conflict resolution prior to fabrication, more efficient scheduling, more effective communication with other trades, and less interference during the installation. Our goal is to produce detailed drawings that increase productivity and minimize field construction problems. Our responsibilities include the understanding of plans, specifications and vendor submittals, the ability to develop accurate construction drawings form architectural and engineering documents, and the ability to coordinate construction drawings with other trades. We manage the drawings for coordination between all trades involved in your specific project. Detailed drawings allow for accurately locating equipment and pads, roof-floor-wall opening which can be given to other trades for installation.

3D detailed drawings are more accurate than hand drawn or field measured orders and give the contractor a more professional appearance. We can produce views for clarity in difficult areas. 3D detailed drawings are easily edited for as-built drawings, if required. We utilize Navisworks(TM) to provide error checking and collision detection with architectural walls, structural steel, ductwork, plumbing, cable trays, piping & more.