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AutoCAD, a product of Auto desk Inc., is a software application and it is used in generating 2D or 3D Cad Services of any real life object. It also helps in making computer aided drafting, engineering drawing, floor plan drawing, 3D model of any type of object such as building, furniture, machine, mechanical products, electrical equipment, etc. effectively.

What is CloudWorx plug-in?

CloudWorx plug-in is a product of Leica and it is very significant and well-accepted plug-in software of AutoCAD. CloudWorx plug-in enables users in working with the point cloud laser scanning process generated point or data in 2D system. Firstly, any object or building is scanned using a laser and the scanned data are imported directly to AutoCAD.

Leica’s CloudWorx and effective Cyclone point cloud engine assists users in viewing the as-built point cloud data and users can also create multiple designs from these data. This plug-in allows users in creating different types of view such as elevation, section (i.e. section along with X axis as well as Y axis), floor plan, etc. from the designs.

How CloudWorx plug-in works?

When you install Leica CloudWorx for AutoCAD in your system, the menu bars and toolbars will be installed successfully within the AutoCAD application. Within AutoCAD, the captured point cloud data resides as read only format i.e. the data are unchangeable.

Therefore, you can only view or utilize these as-built point cloud data. Hence, you cannot perform any kind of modification or deletion of any point which belongs to the existing cloud. Hence, it is clear to us that within AutoCAD, the original point cloud always remains same. CloudWorx can efficiently work with massive data sets like 1000000 or more points.

Advantages and flexibility provided by CloudWorx

• Can perform quick manipulation of laser scan data in AutoCAD
•  Assists users in making slices of point cloud data and users can effectively auto-fit 2D lines, arcs, poly lines
• Enables users to check clashes efficiently
• Provides accurate tie-in facility
• Helps users in producing precise 2D designs by utilizing the point cloud data

Structural design process is undoubtedly very important for the accurate and timely development of structural framework of the building, which is required for holding and transmitting distinct kinds of loads. When a building is developed, structural framework remains the first thing to be constructed in the location. The basic intention of developing it is to support the architecture and MEP systems (which are generally installed once the building is constructed) of the building.

Development of lost lasting buildings remains impossible until and unless strong structural framework is developed for them.

Role of BIM in producing powerful structures

• Building Information Modeling can be elucidated as the methodology used for design documentation for different building disciplines such as architecture, structure and MEP.
• There are different Building Information Modeling software such as Revit Architecture, Revit Structure and Revit MEP, which are used by building professionals for the development of effective design.
• When it comes to structural design, Revit Structure remains utmost vital for structural engineers and BIM technicians because it allows them to represent design information in the most effective way possible in 3D.
• Structural models helps a lot in multidisciplinary coordination, as all the information pertaining to structural design can be easily coordinated among building professionals through them.
• The collaboration between structural engineers and architects can be easily enhanced with the support 3D parametric models produced for structure.
• BIM also allow design and construction professionals to minimize errors from structural design which ultimately helps in enhancing design quality.
• Last but not least, the management, construction and delivery of building projects becomes easy with the support of BIM which is basically used for design documentation.

The worldwide Architectural Engineering and Construction industry are facing high competition in terms of providing satisfactory architectural and engineering solutions to general contractors and home builders. MEP Cad Drafting Services are among some of the most important pre construction engineering services which are immensely important for mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineers when it comes to design and installation of MEP systems.

Auto CAD is one of the most important software when it comes to the development of MEP Shop Drawing as it accommodates highly aggressive, innovative and distinguished tools and features which allow MEP drafters to add a high level of details in the drawings.

Method implemented for developing MEP shop drawings

• MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) shop drawings accommodate huge information with high details in them which are meant to be used by fabricators for the manufacturing components of MEP systems.
• For creating these drawings in Auto Cad MEP drafters require huge details which should be provided by MEP engineers.
• Explicit specifications are sent by mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineers regarding the design of HVAC, power distribution system and plumbing system of the building which are carefully referred by drafters.
• CAD drafting standards are carefully followed by drafters when they generate detailed MEP shop drawings for the utilization of fabricators.
• Auto Cad is highly instrumental when it comes to performing detailing for MEP components.
• These detailed drawings include information on dimensions, material specifications, manufacturing standards, and information concerning welding etc.
• Details regarding each MEP components are provided systematically in these drawings.
• After completing these drawings, MEP drafters have to provide them to mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineers for the purpose of performing a detailed review for them.
• Each and every aspect of the drawings is thoroughly checked by engineers and if errors are determined in them they effectively highlight them and add some notes for the reference of drafters so that they can make necessary alterations.
• The feedback provided by the engineers have to be effectively looked by drafters for making corrections.
• Once the drawings get final approval from MEP engineers they are provided to fabricators.

Structural frameworks can be developed with various kinds of materials and in fact the selection of materials largely depends on the geographical location of the project. In olden days, materials used in the development of structural framework largely depended on their availability in a particular country or reason.

On the other hand geographical conditions also played (and are still playing) a very crucial part in the selection of materials for the development of structural framework for the building.

Selection of right material can enhance the durability of the structure

• Selection of materials differs (and depends) from project to project, for example sometimes numerous different kinds of materials can be used by design and construction professionals for accomplishing a construction project.
• Materials like structural steel (of different specifications), concrete and ceramics etc., are used by AEC professionals for the development of structural framework for different kinds of residential and commercial buildings.
• But structural steel is considered as one of the most stress bearing (load resisting) material and hence it is used widely by AEC professionals for developing strong structures.
• Steel is made up of iron and carbon which makes it highly strong and that remains the primary reason behind its exceptional use in building construction.
• Structural steel has tremendous tensile strengths, which means it can resist huge stress.
• Another important reason behind the tremendous use of structural steel in construction remains its low cost.
• Again the cost of the raw materials used in building projects depends upon geographical area and the accessibility of the material.

Last but not least, when it comes to developing extremely durable buildings, structural steel comes in the first place because of its ductile properties and stiffness.

Building Information Modeling is a new construction technology that is gaining popularity rapidly. This technology is used by Construction industry at large, Architectural firms, Engineering consultants etc. However, there are many companies who still follow the traditional methods of designing or drafting. There is a dearth of awareness among companies due to which BIM is still not rampantly used.

BIM technology can be used to design all kind of buildings, develop presentation models or accumulate entire set of building data in a single model. You can easily add material types, dimensions, functionalities and other parameters that represents the elements of a building in form of a virtual model .

There are many advantages and some of them are listed below

1.Quick construction process

80% of time in planning and 20% time in execution, is the secret to efficient results. This becomes very true in case of virtual construction or BIM modeling. Once any contractor spends reasonable time in virtual construction or BIM of a building and sets right the model according to standards, the construction becomes very quick. BIM gives an advantage of making changes or creating multiple design options within the Revit model which aids in checking the accuracy of the model and the construct ability too. This results in 0 to 10% variations only in the construction stages

2. Result oriented collaboration
   Every single party right from Architects, Engineers or General contractors can work on a single central model with help of the “shared feature” in Revit. By working in such a collaborative environment, one get excellent results.
3. Enriched presentation

Presentation of any building within its design stage becomes very easier with the help of Building Information Modeling. We can create and develop multiple design options to compare or come up with cost effective and efficient construction solutions.

4. High end visualization
   BIM projects enable an entire construction project to be visualized in the most ingenious manner that too at a very intermediate stage. It gives Architects and Design Engineer a very distinct vision of how the design will be finally transformed into fully constructed building. Eventually one can identify errors, construction design faults and change the design to suit construction requirements. Building information modeling activates the virtual construction environment with excellent pre- planning and procurement methodology. With the help of software like Revit, project predictability is getting better with every passing day.
5. Optimized solutions
   BIM offers construction solutions that can be cost-effectively optimized against agreed parameters through use of new modeling technologies of BIM.
6. Project life asset management
   BIM models can be treated as complete and total model that contains 100% information right from area, materials, cost and construct ability review details. It also acts as interactive 3d platform and shows equipment items and specifications too in a very detailed manner.
7. Continual improvement
   BIM gives continuous feedback information about the performance of processes and items of the equipment driving improvements on consequent projects.

Visualization in layman’s terms basically means the ability to visualize and create a photo realistic image of any building, product or landscape. Architectural industry post digitization of the Architectural Design services quite often use this term to present photo realistic 3d images of an exterior, interior or site of a residential or commercial building premise. This particular set of services are referred to as “Architectural Visualization Services” or “3D Rendering Services”. Architectural firms, Real estate firms, Advertising agencies and print media rampantly use such services to demonstrate or present multiple services. 3D rendering services also includes Animation and walk through, 3D fly through, photo montage and other services that showcase a construction project in a realistic manner.

3D rendering services include

• Exterior and Interior 3D rendering
• Site Landscaping
• Photo montage
• Animation and Walk through
• Fly through
• Product Rendering

There are multiple rendering tools and software that can be used for rendering a site or building. Revit or ArchiCAD can be used to create 3d models, while software like 3D Max, Lumion etc. can be used to add a photo realism to the otherwise insipid models. There is a plugin “V-ray” that adds in lighting to the 3d rendering. The benefit of using rendering services is that Architects and Visualizers can display the objects, vegetation, roof texture or walls exactly how it will be when the building is constructed. Architectural visualization helps in getting different images from multiple angles like bird eye view gives an idea of how the building will look from the top, side view and front view give a different perspective and project the building in different way.

Apart from 3D rendering services for residential, commercial or sports complexes or landscaping, even products and furniture can be rendered. Product renderings can be extremely photo realistic and give an intricate idea of all the components in the product. The visualizer needs to make sure that the amalgamation of the light effect, colors, shadow, curves in such a way that anyone who looks at the image feels he is looking at an actual photo of the product or building. It is also possible to create furniture, human figures, water bodies etc. in a picture realistic manner. Owing to the photo realistic realm, Architectural visualization services are widely used for marketing, branding and other promotional events for an Architectural or interior design company.

It is highly imperative to scout for a perfect company which can provide highly photo realistic 3D rendering services to Architectural and Interior Design firms globally. India is one of the most sought after destination for outsourcing your Architectural visualization services.

There are many 3D rendering service providers in India who can offer you highly cost effective and photo realistic visualization. Outsourcing your architectural visualization services to India is more cost effective than having an in house staff and increase your monthly liabilities of paying salaries to your employees, training them etc.

Architectural Design is not a job but it is a process that starts with conceptualization process and ends with a complete design drawing submission and 3D presentation model. This process usually starts when the client or owner brings his idea to an Architectural Company. The Architectural firm takes this concept and designs a structure with all appropriate by-laws, standards, and code to suit a particular geographical location or state/country. They have to adhere to the Federal and state bylaws diligently to ensure that the commissions approve of the construction design.

Today we will talk about two of phases that are included in the Architectural Design Process.

• Construction Drawings
• Design Development

Design and Development:

This is the second phase of the entire Design process. Primarily this process covers all aspects of the design much more in detail than the schematic design. The drawings in this stage need to be fully coordinated, covering every single detail that is required for construction. These drawing sets also include the following

• Interior Elevations
• Exterior Elevations
• Floor Plans
• Reflected Ceiling Plans
• Site Plans
• Wall Sections
  Detail Drawings for the toilet, foundation detail etc.

Drawings developed during the Design and Development stage is actually submitted for approval to the building department. These drawings become the foundation of the Architectural Construction Drawings that are developed at a later stage. The work in the DD stage is fairly split between Architects and Drafters. Architects are fairly responsible for providing the “Rough set” of Drawings to the Drafter who then takes these drawings and develops them into the “ Fair Set” of drawings with dimensioning, CAD and Layering Standards, Sheet Setups, section call outs etc.

Once the Architects or Engineers examine the work of the drafters, they approve the drawings and stamp them for further submissions. One aspect that needs to be kept in mind is that the Architect who works on the design and development stage has to ensure that the design is accurate and error free. Once the Architects reaches to a point where the designs are complete and approved, the next phase of design process i.e. Construction Drawings begins.

Construction Drawings

Construction Drawings is the most critical stage of the Architectural Design project. This is the third stage and is also known as “CD Set”. This phase takes care of all last minute and sudden design issues that come up in any project. The Architectural team works towards executing the design changes that arise during the development of CD Sets. Over budgeting of the current design, client not liking the designs, some issues which are a hurdle in obtaining the permissions etc. may compel the Architects to change the design. It is also possible that the design may change post submissions however Architects may need to add addendum in the CD Sets to reflect these changes.
Updating the Construction Drawings according to the Design changes is very important. Even the Visualizers need to reflect these changes while designing the 3D Models and renderings. Incorrect line work, dimensioning etc. in the CD set can result in erroneous 3D modeling.

6D BIM stands for 6D Building Information Modeling. It is a phrase extensively used in the AEC industry and refers to the intellectual linking of all the individual 3D CAD components or assemblies with all aspects of project life-cycle management information.

The 6D model is typically delivered to the owner when a construction project is finished so as to have the complete understanding of the project at hand. The “As-Built” BIM model is populated with appropriate building component information such as product data and details, manuals for operation/maintenance, manufacturer information and contacts, etc.

This database is made available to the users/owners through a tailor-made proprietary web-based environment. This is envisioned to assist facilities managers in the operation and maintenance of the facility, while facilitating a complete informative model to the user.

Dimensions in a 6D BIM model

3D (The shared information model)

3D BIM (Building Information Model) is the process of creating graphical and non-graphical information that is shared in a Common Data Environment (CDE). As the project life cycle progresses this information becomes richer in detail until the point at which the project data is handed over to the owner/user at completion.

4D (Construction sequencing)

4D BIM adds an additional segment of measurement of information to the BIM model in time scheduling. This data is added to components which will build in detail as the project progresses. Time-related information for a particular element might include information on lead time, how long it takes to construct, the time needed to become operational, the sequence in which components should be installed, and dependencies on other areas of the project.

With time information amalgamated in the BIM model, it is also feasible to show how construction will develop showing how a configuration will appear to look at each phase.

5D (Cost)

Drawing on the components of the BIM model being able to extract accurate cost information is what’s at the heart of 5D BIM. This information allows cost managers to easily extrapolate the quantities of a given component on a project. The benefits of a costing approach linked to a model include the ability to easily see costs in 3D form, get notifications when changes are made, and the automatic counting of components attached to a project. One can easily track predicted and actual spend over the course of a project. This allows for regular cost reporting and budgeting ensuring efficiencies are realized and the project itself stays within budget tolerances.

The cost manager may have to get used to working earlier and more iterative than in a traditional process but has just as important a role to play in overall project delivery.

6D BIM (Project life cycle information)

Shifting the focus to better understand the whole-life cost of assets, where most money is proportionately spent, should make for better decisions upfront in terms of both cost and sustainability. This is where 6D BIM comes in.

6D BIM is also referred to as integrated BIM or iBIM. It includes the information that is required to support Facility Management and operation to drive better business outcomes. This data includes information such as the manufacturer of a component, its installation date, required maintenance and details of how the item should be configured and operated for optimal performance, energy performance, along with lifespan and decommissioning data.

Facilitating all different kinds of components to the BIM model enables decision-making during the design process. In effect, designers can explore a whole range of permutations across the life cycle of a built assets and quickly get an understanding of impacts including costs. However, it is at handover, that this kind of information really adds value as it is passed on to the end-user.

6D BIM model offers an easily-accessible and understood way of extrapolating information. Various details that would have gone unnoticed in paper files are now easily interrogated graphically. This approach really comes into its own by allowing facilities managers to pre-plan maintenance activities potentially years in advance and develop spending profiles over the lifetime of a built asset, working out when repairs become uneconomical or existing systems inefficient. This approach of planned and proactive planning offers significant benefits over a more reactive one – not least in terms of costs.

Ideally the information model should comprise of regular updates on repairs and replacements added in. In fact, what is even better is that a myriad of equipped data and diagnostics can also be fed in to inform decision making still further.

As we all know, Cad and BIM Outsourcing has grew leaps and bounds in the last few decades. Exemplary development in the field of Architectural, Engineering and Construction paved way to a lot of new opportunities for the offshore industry. Apart from simple drafting or 3D Modelling Services,  digital building solutions have diversified into a lot of advanced services such as BIM Modelling Services, Scan to BIM Services, 4D, 5D, 6D and 7D facility management, Construction Drawings etc.

Every service when outsourced gives you a common benefit that is cost. But there are other underlying benefits too that are more prominent than just cost. Today let us pick Scan to BIM Services or Point cloud BIM Modelling and understand how outsourcing can help here

Benefits of Outsourcing Point cloud to BIM Modelling Services

Minimize investment and Maximize profits:

One of the most prominent benefits of working on the outsourcing model is maximizing the profit in minimal investment. How is the investment minimum? Scanning or capturing of the existing building data requires the laser scan which is costly. A good quality laser scanner starts from 25000 USD. If a survey company decides to move to laser scanning method, they can very well start with this investment. But if they decide to convert the scans to BIM Models they will have to again invest on high end computers, storage space, internet speed and most important of all “skilled and trained resources”. This will double up the investment and in turn reduce the profitability. Maintaining the resources, managing them, extracting productivity and monitoring the project progress etc. shall increase the overall investment and recurring cost. Managing on site and in house scan to BIM conversion will not be very productive. In such a scenario the client can focus on the core competency of surveying and measuring an infrastructure without worrying about the conversion part. The survey company can definitely outsource point cloud to BIM Modelling to BIM outsourcing companies in India and achieve high profitability with excellent results.

Skilled manpower availability: India is known for producing country’s best Architects and Engineers. Many countries like USA, UK, Canada, and Australia have Indians working on some of the most coveted positions. Keeping this in mind, it would not be wrong to say that Indians have skilled resources available to work on Scan to BIM projects. There are many CAD and BIM companies in India who provide Scan To BIM Services with high quality and turnaround time. Survey companies do not have to worry about the latter part of the project, all they need to worry is about the scanning and nothing else. Such companies have good experience in executing projects for international clients. Qualified Architects and Engineers with outsourcing experience are easier to find in India.

Overall industry and outsourcing experience: Since India is an outsourcing hub and has an excellent experience of dealing with overseas client. India’s economy thrives on outsourcing model and has successfully established itself as one of the strongest CAD and BIM outsourcing destination too. Hence you can rely on the companies here and get good result without worrying about getting cheated for money

Indian Currency VS Others: Indian money value is lesser than any other currency, which makes India the most popular outsourcing destination. This gives a major cost profit to countries like USA, UK, Australia, Europe and Canada. Survey companies globally can make the best use of this situation and outsource their point cloud to BIM Modeling Service in India.

Language proficiency: India is extremely proficient in English language. It is widely spoken in India and is the primary language of education here. Unlike other countries where they use their native language massively, India uses English for all the business communication and other arenas. This makes people extremely fluent in this language. Survey companies can forward instructions in English which can easily be adapted and understood by Architects, Engineers and BIM technicians. Even phone or email communication is much effortless owing to the language proficiency

Conclusion: Scan to BIM Services or Point cloud to BIM Modelling services today are widely used by survey companies. This article is aimed to provide you with an idea on why survey companies should focus on outsourcing their services to India.

3D Rendering Services is used for creative and virtual presentation of any building structure or product in a real time environment. When buildings or sites are rendered the services get limited to Architectural 3D renderings only. The presentation of the designs in 3d format is visually enticing and makes a huge difference in the way the design is perceived. The ability to present colors, materials or textures, landscaping etc. is what makes the rendering process so popular among  Architectural companies and Real estate firms. The process of transformation is extremely creative and eases out the effort of making design changes where required. 3D rendering paradigms like Architectural floor plans, Exterior Renderings, Interior Renderings, Photo montage etc. are extremely helpful in visualizing the designs of any building structure.

What are the key benefits of the Architectural 3D Renderings?

Visually impact design presentations: 3D rendering Services are instrumental in presenting the conceptual design drawings into detailed and visual 3d plans or renderings. This helps the buyer and the builder review the designs closely and finalize them. The best part is that the interiors can also be finalized in the pre-construction stage and modified according to the requirements of the customers. Instead of making a design presentation with 2D plans it gives a much broader perspective to a lot of details right in the conceptual stage.

Assistance in Sales and Marketing: Architectural 3D Rendering assist in sales and marketing services tremendously. 3D renderings can be printed on catalogs, billboards, video simulations etc. and used in trade shows, exhibitions etc. These can be an excellent marketing tool to advertise and sell residential or commercial units. 3D floor plans, Animation, and Walk through etc. are some tools that help in the marketing of buildings.

Space planning and aesthetics: 3d floor plans or Interior 3d Renderings also help in aligning the aesthetics of building with the space utilization factor. With the help of Architectural Visualization services, we can identify the ideal location for furniture placements and change the existing placement if required. Also the 3D renderings can be completed based on the prevailing construction and design standards applicable to the location of the site.

Budget control: Performing design changes such as color change, furniture layout or any modification leads to additional cost. When these changes are performed after the building is constructed they lead to wastage of money, resources and time. Hence working with Architectural visualization improves the budget control and helps in achieving design accuracy prior to construction.

Conclusion: Architectural firms can choose to work on rendering projects in house or outsource this work to 3D rendering services provider companies. India is an extremely touted destination for such projects. Architectural 3D Rendering companies in India, provide cost effective and quick deliverable which are photo realistic in nature.