Technology

Visualizing Success: BIM@CHA

The art and science of visually representing a proposed structure continue to thrive today as an art form and a technical subset of architectural and engineering design. Design visualization is critical in communicating the aesthetics, mass, function, and meaning of a conceptual or final design per an owner’s requirements and intent. While any visualization technology can generate stunning computer-generated imagery, its true power is unleashed when paired with Building Information Modeling (BIM).

CHA’s technical teams use BIM daily on hundreds of projects to efficiently create and manage information for built assets. BIM is a cloud-based intelligent modeling system that integrates multi-disciplinary data to develop detailed digital representations of the physical and functional characteristics of buildings and infrastructure.

BIM can secure a place on almost any project for good reason. Enhanced visualization and improved conflict detection facilitate quick coordination among disciplines and rapid feedback from owners, whether for the design of a small-scale structure or a complex facility. For example, CHA recently created realistic renderings and a flyby animation for the New York State Office of General Services, utilizing a combination of advanced BIM technologies such as AutoDesk Revit, Navisworks, and Lumion.

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BIM’s full potential is realized when combined with other visualization technologies. Drones can capture high-quality aerial images and videos of construction sites, which can then be imported into BIM software to create detailed 3D models and maps. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are other emerging tools that have become increasingly popular in the context of Revit collaboration. With AR, 3D models can be overlaid onto a real-world environment using an iPad or tablet computer. With VR, users can immerse themselves in a wholly digital environment using VR headsets like the Meta Quest 2. When paired with collaboration platforms like AutoDesk’s The Wild, VR and AR technologies enable remote teams to collaborate in shared virtual spaces and allow stakeholders to better engage with proposed structures.

For more information, contact Arjun Singh,

CHA is already seeing the advantages of employing these cutting-edge technologies on pilot projects, which benefit from increased efficiency, more informed decision-making, and fewer errors. We are also exploring the integration of BIM and 3D printing to create physical models of digital designs, allowing architects and engineers to analyze designs in a tangible form and identify areas for improvement. With the ability to share and manipulate every project aspect across multiple disciplines in a single location, BIM and visualization technologies have transformed the way projects are designed and built. When used together, these advanced tools promote consistency, improve efficiency, and ultimately lead to exceptional results.

Manager of Design Technology, at asingh@chacompanies.com

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