Building Information Modelling

Building Information Modelling is fast becoming the preferred method of design delivery for all architects and engineers transforming the way in which buildings are designed, as is the case on Roger Stirk Harbour’s Riverlight.

As the only company in the UK that provides BIM specifically for Facade Engineering, Wintech have taken the lead in offering clients a more complete delivery of building design, with reduced costs.

A digital model recognises components of a building as actual objects rather than simply lines and allows for design elements to be more easily coordinated, particularly on more complex projects. Intelligence may also be embedded into the building model, which may be highly beneficial for clients. Wintech have developed the BIM methodology to specifically suit building envelopes, transforming the way facade systems are designed to function effectively throughout their entire lifespan. BIM can be employed immediately from concept development through to fabrication, delivery and installation, allowing for greater communication of details between facade engineers and architects. Typically, early insight into design problems is achieved and also allows the users to visualise alternative designs during the design development phase.

Watch BIM demonstration video here

Any aspect of a building’s performance can be simulated and assessed before it is built which gives an early insight into problems before they become costly; an important factor for the design and construction phases as it improves quality, lowers costs, increases speed to site and drastically reduces error.

Digitally produced 3D models (as opposed to the 2D perspective) act as virtual prototypes, giving the advantage of significantly greater accuracy when shared between a project team. This is greatly valuable for the design and construction phases as it means improved quality, lower costs and reduced schedules. Essential building elements such as day-lighting, thermal, acoustic, structural and cost estimation can also be assessed using BIM before building and at key points in the design and construction process. Data from the model can be used for component and assembly fabrication purposes.

Wintech implemented Building Information Modelling on the Riverlight development located in Nine Elms, London. On this development, the model was used to coordinate the facade with the structure and M&E  services enabling clash detection, 3D co-ordination scheduling and 2D drawing extraction. Data was easily exchanged between Ramboll, Hoare Lea, and the architects EPR. The project involved a fully comprehensive facade design supported by structural calculations and thermal modelling.

BIM can also be used in finding solutions in complex geometry building projects and form part of a wider pallet of services on these types of projects.