On the fast track of BIM

Hayes: Simply choose a starting point and build up from there. The simplest way to begin is with digital layout using paper, 2D CAD or 3D models. Easy-touse, highly accurate tools, such as the Leica iCON robot, combined with intelligent, intuitive field and office software create an easy on-ramp to BIM for concrete layout, MEP layout and quality assurance. Another common on-ramp to BIM is pre-construction validation with laser scanning. Here, Leica ScanStations capture existing building conditions in the form of near photorealistic, highly-accurate point clouds that can be used directly in Revit for faster and more accurate modelling or in Navisworks for automated clash or anti-clash detection to help mitigate change orders during construction.

For digital layout, high-precision Leica iCON robotic total stations combined with intuitive field software creates a “paint-by-numbers” installation in the field that reduces errors and provides a higher level of predictability of project outcomes.

For pre-construction as-builting, layout and quality assurance, the innovative new “BIM One Box” Leica Nova MS60 MultiStation performs robotic layout with ease while the field software tracks the layout locations. When quality control checks are performed, any deviations are identified in real time with a BIM delta report and can be easily scanned with the same device, producing point clouds that are automatically oriented and positioned so they flow back into the model perfectly aligned. This substantially reduces post-processing so teams can focus on comparing field data with model data to avoid rework in the field.

Contractors experienced in BIM and ready to take their capabilities to the next level will want to combine hardware solutions, such as the innovative MultiStations, ultra-fast high-definition laser scanners and high-precision robotic total stations, with full-featured field and office software to create advanced 3D workflows that streamline and optimise preconstruction as-builting, construction layout, and quality assurance as-builting. It’s worth noting that the MultiStation introduces a new era of versatility in BIM workflows with the ability to use a single instrument for pre-construction as-built point cloud data capture, replicating highly accurate BIM layout points in the field, and then high-definition laser scanning for quality assurance as-builts for comparing with as-designed models to create a complete 3D BIM lifecycle.

Bernd Moeller is the Leica Geosystems global senior product manager for Construction & Engineering. He is a graduate engineer in Surveying and Geomatics and holds a Master of Advanced Studies in Business Administration and Engineering.

Mark King, a former BIM project manager at an UK survey company, now serves as the Leica Geosystems EMEA BIM Solutions manager. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design.

Owen Williams is the Leica Geosystems APAC segment manager for the Machine Control Division. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Surveying and Mapping Sciences.

Cathi Hayes serves as the Leica Geosystems NAFTA director of BIM Strategy and Business Development. She holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture and Professional Bachelor of Architecture.

Back to Reporter 74 article overview

Story: On the fast track of BIM
Chapter 1: Why is BIM becoming so popular throughout the industry? - Part 1
Chapter 1: Why is BIM becoming so popular throughout the industry? - Part 2
Chapter 2: How is the BIM adoption rate in your specific region?
Chapter 3: What advice would you give professionals looking to start a BIM program? - Part 1
Chapter 3: What advice would you give professionals looking to start a BIM program? - Part 2