The 4 steps to create your 4D simulation without having the BIM 3D model
Since Tamer Elgohari started in the VDC ( Virtual Design and Construction ) industry, he had always been limited to the BIM workflow (3D -> 4D -> 5D) and its standards and protocols. Later, and with the goal of making his work simpler and easier, he began to think about simulation from a different perspective.
Why can’t we create a 4D simulation without a 3D BIM model?
For this engineer, 4D simulation was just two words: planning visualization.
But on the other hand, 4D represents the requirements of 3D components without the need to commit to working from a BIM model.
No one should measure components or extract a plan from a 4D model. It’s not so much the number of columns on a floor that matters, but rather whether the work to construct that column is carried out in parallel with the slab or after the fact , or whether this work deviates from the critical planning time path. Another example would be the tower crane, where the time taken for assembly, disassembly, and on-site time are more important than the BIM model used in the 3D.
It is clear that each project has its own requirements for the 4D model, but Tamer assures that 70% of the information needed for 4D simulations can be extracted without the 3D BIM model.
Therefore, why are we deliberating this task to the BIM department? Why can’t a 4D model be created with a traditional plan, a table, and Synchro Pro software ?
Tamer explains the workflow he uses with the following example:
IT STARTS WITH: Project drawings + a construction schedule.
WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM THE 4D SIMULATION: Dynamic visualization to verify the methodology and logistics scheduled for construction.
TOOLS: Any 3D modeling software + Synchro Pro.
THE 4-STEP PROCESS: 1. Import the 2D project into a 3D modeling software and extrude it according to the simulation requirements.
- 3D models of the environment can be used from a local government database.
- This task can be done in just 3 to 4 days at most and without much experience.
- Remember that the 3D model does not have to be 100% detailed, just sufficient for simulation.
2. Create the task schedule in Synchro Pro software or other equivalent software.
- This will require a maximum of 2 days of work.
3. Import the 3D model into Synchro pro and link it to the table.
- In this step you must ensure that the WBS table level matches the same LOD as the model.
4. Render and export the simulation
- This will require a maximum of 2 days of work.
The result is that a good 4D model can be generated without using any BIM model in just a few days.
This workflow will be interesting to consider when you don’t need to create a complete 3D model and want to represent the planned construction methodology; or, for example, if you want to study the logistics and access routes to the site, perform temporal risk analysis, or even control and simulate your project even if you don’t have a BIM department.
“As I always say about 4D simulation: one picture is worth a thousand words, but can you imagine what a thousand pictures can say?” Tamer Elgohari
