Computer Modeling / BIM
David Rogers
(530) 891-1710
rogers@nmrdesign.com
COMPUTER MODELING & RENDERING
3-D Computer Modeling, Rendering and Animations
The dramatic gains in computing power available today have greatly increased our ability to use 3D computer modeling, rendering and animation to provide virtual images of a completed structure prior to actual construction. Renderings and animations have all but replaced construction of physical models as a way to communicate project alternatives. NMR has a dedicated Visualization Studio that allows us to explore and master the latest digital technologies.
The recent advancement in drone technology and aerial scanning and mapping has allowed us to take the context of our modeling even further. Whether topographic mapping or scanning existing buildings and landforms to provide context to digital models, drones have allowed rapid acquisition of very detailed information to help the design team and owners make informed decisions.
It is a priority for NMR to implement the latest technical innovations in our profession in order to ensure that we provide accurate plans and specifications for our clients at the lowest possible cost. NMR uses the latest technological advancements to integrate our presentation models into our construction documents to achieve an efficient, seamless transition from the design phase to the construction document preparation phase. Our plans are carefully prepared to ensure they function as dynamic documents capable of a multitude of uses beyond describing the work of a construction project. Our clients find our work useful in maintaining record documents for buildings which may be renovated to accommodate their changes functional needs within the building. Other post-construction uses our clients have found for our documents include Joint Commission exhibits, exiting plans and exhibits to assist in occupant way finding.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become the standard design and construction collaboration platform for new projects and is very viable for any renovation project where a high level of systems coordination is required. Recent BIM implementations on additions and renovation project have shown us that partial modeling of systems for overhead coordination are a cost-effective way for the project team to identify issues and resolve conflicts during the design process as opposed to reacting to these conflicts during construction.
In our role as the BIM Administrator, NMR is responsible for compiling the modeling work of our consulting engineers and various design/build subcontractors and updated the combined model to clearly communicate the status of the project during the design and construction phase.
During design, the primary advantage of BIM is it provides extremely high level of coordination between all design disciplines. Employed correctly, BIM also leads to higher quality construction documents delivered at increased speed and at a reduced cost. The advantages of BIM carry over into bidding and construction. Our BIM models allow the participating construction trade partners to complete material take-offs and bills of materials more quickly and accurately. During construction, the participating trade partners use their model elements to accurately fabricate components off-site which reduce cost and accelerate the construction process.
NMR uses Autodesk Revit as its primary BIM software. For our clients who are not participating in the modeling of their projects, we recommend Autodesk’s Navisworks project review software which allows them to view and comment on the model elements. Many owners have found the virtual models created through BIM extremely useful as facility management tools after construction is completed.