3D Modeling Improves Sequencing and Lift Analysis

Many BuildingPoint Canada customers are construction engineers responsible for major projects involving project sequencing, lift planning, and organizing crane logistics. Find out how working with a fully functional, 3D design modeling tool like Trimble’s Tekla software makes these activities easier to complete successfully. 

Modeling construction projects in three dimensions has several benefits. It can improve lead times and reduce costs. It can also contribute to improved building safety and stability.  

Trimble’s Tekla products offer a range of digital tools and features to help you plan and implement major construction projects. Software like Tekla Structures can improve your collaboration with contractors and other stakeholders. 

The best way to begin your 3D modeling process is to obtain copies of any digital design models the engineer of record (EOR) or detailers have already produced. Many designers use Revit software to create these models, and they can usually supply you with an IFC file.

Tekla Structures can import IFC files as reference models. You can use either 2D or 3D CAD files as your Tekla reference files. We recommend converting these IFC files into Tekla objects. Although you can snap objects onto IFC reference files in Tekla Structures, conversion allows you to modify and assign them the correct density and weight for lift planning. 

There’s another reason most construction engineers prefer to convert IFC files to Tekla objects. It enables them to deal with reference models in more detail when organizing project phases and sequencing. 

Phase Manager Tool to Create Sequencing Models 

Tekla Structures includes a phase manager tool where you can create your sequencing models. You can add freely add any number of phases, assigning them names and numbers as you go along. The software can colour code parts and assemblies according to the phases you assign. 

Tekla includes selection filters that let you turn sequences on and off for 3D drawings. You can then create views representing a specific phase or including all the construction activities leading up to that phase.  

From there, you can generate a plan view showing the selected phases from your model. This enables you to create a batch of sequential drawings identifying the pertinent assemblies or parts for each phase. 

You can also use isometric projection to create batches of three-dimensional drawings using Tekla. These isometric drawings can show the full geometry of parts in selected construction phases with colour codes. 

Lift Analysis Support 

There are several other ways to apply Tekla’s phase and filter functionality. For example, Tekla can also support your lift analysis models. You can link analysis models with your Tekla model to create and manage a wireframe representation of the site for analysis. 

Tekla can create multiple wireframe drawings to represent any phase. You can manage and maintain as many wireframe representations as you need to monitor your project.  

Another helpful 3D modeling functionality in Tekla is lift analysis support. Tekla enables you to document the weights or centres of gravity of each part or assembly.  

For any selected object, Tekla automatically calculates its centre of gravity and gross weight. Using model objects, you can insert centre of gravity symbols directly into your construction drawings. 

You can also use Tekla’s free Crane Capacity Check extension to visualize how you’ll use cranes to lift assemblies into place at the site. You can enter a range of potential cranes and generate a crane capacity chart.  

Then, you can assign parts or assemblies to individual cranes. Tekla verifies that the crane you’ve assigned to each member has sufficient lift capacity. You can also sort your lift data by crane and share it with your crane contractor for verification and planning. 

Task and Activity List Integration 

Tekla can also create or import your construction task lists, linking them to the phases of your 3D model. You can even create animated sequences to present the construction sequence to project stakeholders in video form. 

Tekla can also produce layout point plans for field crews. Contractors can import the layout point coordinates into their own equipment to get jobs done more smoothly and accurately.

Three-dimensional modeling with Trimble’s Tekla products enables you and your team to provide timely access to accurate information for everyone involved with your project. Why not contact BuildingPoint Canada to discuss how you and your team can use Tekla software to plan your next major construction project? 

Contact us to learn more about Tekla Structures.