Skanska Talonrakennus Oy, Finland

Scheduling, logistics, safety and 4D simulations on site

The site crew of "Manskun Rasti" is using a Tekla construction management model with scheduling, safety and logistics information in addition to all planning discipline’s models. Phase 1 is a project of two 8-storey office buildings with a 3-storey garage underneath. The project will finish in 2012. The 1st building will be finished in February 2012, and it will be the future head office of Skanska in Finland. Another office building will be ready in August 2012. The production model is based on the structural model including CIP constructions complete with reinforcement, fully detailed precast concrete units, and the steel framework. IFC is used for combining the models from all disciplines involved: the architect's, structural, MEP and geotechnical models. Geotechnical designer has modeled existing pipes and tunnels, excavations and the planned underground utility lines. The site surface was laser-scanned before excavation started, and the initial terrain model is a part of the combined model. Site safety and logistics are also planned with help of modeling. As many as 7 structural designers have been simultaneously working with the same model. The goal is to improve productivity, remove waste, and reduce disturbances in production.

BIM makes understanding complex structures much easier

First production model was created in the rock and soil excavations. Next production models that have so far been completed are the model of the basement floors, including CIP framework and precast concrete element installation, and the framework erection models for both buildings including steel structures and precast concrete elements. Schedule simulations have been created with the production model, and they have been used as a slideshow at the site. Some 4D videos have also been created. A weekly schedule has been created from the 4D simulation and set up on the meeting room walls. Ad hoc quantities and checks and precast concrete element lists for the fabricator are created using the production model. The site crew did find BIM very useful at the site, and BIM is considered an everyday tool at every Skanska site in the future. The structural model is useful in visualizing procurements. It makes understanding complex structures easier in the calculating and bidding phase both for Skanska and its subcontractors.