Latest news with #BuildingInformationModeling
International Business Times
3 days ago
- Business
- International Business Times
Green Mark Certification and Energy Efficient Grant Applications with Scan to BIM
Sustainable building practices are becoming increasingly vital in Singapore as the nation advances its climate goals and strives to reduce carbon emissions. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) plays a key role in this movement through initiatives like the Green Mark Certification and the Energy Efficiency Grant. These programs encourage building owners and operators to adopt energy efficient technologies, retrofit aging infrastructure, and improve overall environmental performance. Digital technologies, particularly Scan to BIM (Building Information Modeling), are proving to be powerful tools in supporting these efforts, enabling accurate documentation, detailed analysis, and effective planning for sustainable upgrades. Scan to BIM is the process of using laser scanning or drone technology to capture the physical conditions of a building and converting that data into a digital 3D model. These models offer rich detail and accuracy, making them extremely useful for retrofit projects, facilities management, and even heritage conservation. Because they reflect the actual state of the building, Scan to BIM models form a reliable foundation for performance analysis, helping project teams understand how a building functions and where improvements can be made. The Green Mark Certification assesses buildings based on a set of sustainability criteria, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable management practices. It offers different tiers of recognition such as Certified, Gold, GoldPLUS, and Platinum based on the extent of green performance. To achieve these ratings, applicants must provide detailed documentation supported by performance simulations and baseline data. This is where Scan to BIM plays a critical role. Many older buildings lack accurate documentation and may have undergone numerous undocumented modifications over the years. As a result, facility owners and project teams are often left without a reliable and up-to-date record of the building's current condition. Scan to BIM offers a cost effective and highly precise solution (with deviations under 10mm) to quickly generate detailed as built models. These models not only serve as a digital twin of the structure but also form a solid foundation for downstream applications like energy simulations and daylight analysis, ensuring such analyses are grounded in the building's actual geometry and systems. Similarly, the Energy Efficiency Grant supports businesses especially in the manufacturing, food services, and retail sectors in implementing energy efficient upgrades. The grant requires applicants to submit audits, equipment specifications, and energy savings estimates. Accurate building documentation produced through Scan to BIM helps validate these applications by providing clear evidence of existing inefficiencies and projected improvements. It allows consultants and owners to demonstrate measurable gains in energy performance with confidence. Scan to BIM enables a data driven approach to green building upgrades. It helps create a digital baseline of the building's current condition, which is essential for running energy and daylight simulations. It also allows teams to identify inefficiencies in HVAC systems, lighting layouts, and building envelope performance. With this information, project stakeholders from engineers to consultants and building owners can collaborate more effectively, working from a shared digital model that facilitates better decision making and more efficient upgrades. In practice, a typical project begins with a laser scan or drone capture of the existing structure. The data is then processed into a BIM model using tools like Revit, with the option to export in formats such as IFC or COBie. This model is integrated with simulation platforms like OpenBuildings Energy Simulator, which serves both as a BIM modelling tool and provides comprehensive energy simulation capabilities. The final step involves generating reports and documentation for submission to BCA or relevant authorities as part of the Green Mark or grant application process. For example, a commercial retrofit project might use Scan to BIM to identify outdated HVAC units and poor lighting distribution. With a digital model in hand, the team simulates the expected energy savings after upgrades and submits this as part of an Energy Efficiency Grant application. The result is a faster approval timeline, measurable energy reductions, and access to financial support for sustainable improvements. Working with a Scan to BIM service provider offers multiple advantages beyond just modeling. The full Scan to BIM workflow typically involves coordination between several parties including a surveyor to capture the existing site conditions, a BIM service provider to process and model the data, and engineering consultants or energy efficiency auditors to interpret the outputs for certification or design purposes. A seasoned service provider plays a crucial role in orchestrating this collaboration, offering not only the technical expertise and software required but also ensuring seamless communication and data flow across stakeholders. This approach is often more cost effective than maintaining an in house modeling team and results in faster turnaround times and higher accuracy. Service providers also support flexibility in file formats, making it easier to integrate with tools and standards needed for certification or grant applications. Ultimately, Scan to BIM aligns perfectly with Singapore's green building goals. It bridges the gap between existing conditions and sustainable outcomes, helping building owners streamline certification efforts and unlock valuable funding through government programs. Investing in Scan to BIM is a smart step toward making buildings more energy efficient, cost effective, and environmentally responsible.
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
AECOM to enhance mobility across the Greater Bay Area by delivering the Hong Kong Section of Hong Kong–Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai)
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 July 2025 - AECOM, the trusted global infrastructure leader, today announced that its joint venture with AtkinsRéalis has been awarded the consultancy agreement by the Highways Department of the HKSAR Government for the Hong Kong Section of Hong Kong–Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) (HSWRL). This cross-boundary railway project, a key initiative under the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy, will significantly enhance connectivity across the Greater Bay Area, particularly between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. 'We're proud to support Highways Department as it expands its world-class railway network for greater regional mobility,' said Mark Southwell, chief executive of AECOM's global Transportation business. 'Our teams have delivered some of Hong Kong's most transformative railway projects, and we look forward to applying our expertise as the world's top rail and mass transit firm to realize this complex infrastructure initiative.' HSWRL will contribute to a more sustainable urban environment while fostering economic integration, cultural exchange, improved accessibility across the region, and facilitating Hong Kong's better integration into the national development. A trip from Hung Shui Kiu to Qianhai will only take approximately 15 minutes — an improvement that supports the development of a 'one-hour living circle' in the Greater Bay Area and facilitates cross-boundary commuting. 'This award reflects the global experience, Mainland-Hong Kong cross-border expertise and deep sector knowledge that our integrated team brings to complex infrastructure projects,' said Ian Chung, chief executive of AECOM's Asia region. 'Having worked extensively on key projects in the region, we are honored to collaborate with the HKSAR Government on this vital cross-boundary link. By combining our technical excellence with a proven track record, we remain committed to achieving the highest standards of service for our clients.' The consultancy agreement covers investigation, design and construction for the approximately 7.3-kilometer Hong Kong Section of the HSWRL, which will connect Hung Shui Kiu to the boundary with Shenzhen. The full railway will span around 18.1 kilometers, including 10.8 kilometers in Shenzhen, comprehensively integrating metro networks across the western regions of both cities. To maximize efficiency, transparency and quality, the project will adopt a single Common Data Environment (CDE) and a unified Building Information Modeling (BIM) platform across all project stages, supporting collaboration and cost-effective, timely outcomes. The project is among the strategic transport initiatives highlighted in Hong Kong's 2023 Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint. AECOM contributed to the development of this long-term vision through its involvement in the Strategic Studies on Railways and Major Roads beyond 2030, helping to shape the region's future transport network and advancing greater integration within the Greater Bay Area. In addition to this strategic support, AECOM has delivered numerous high-profile railway projects across Hong Kong, including Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, Shatin to Central Link and Tuen Mun South Extension.
Business Standard
21-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Knock The Builder is Transforming Indian Construction with Fully Virtual Project Management
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 21: In a country where building a home often involves months of stressful site visits, miscommunications, and endless back-and-forth on WhatsApp, one startup is reimagining the construction experience from the ground up. Knock The Builder, founded by Rizwan Shaikh, is a bold construction-tech platform that enables clients to monitor and manage their entire construction project -- virtually, from anywhere in the world. "Why should a schoolteacher in Kanpur or a business owner in Dubai fly back to inspect tiles or check progress?" asks Rizwan. "In 2025, you should be able to walk through your home, approve materials, and monitor progress -- all from your screen." Despite advances in architectural design, much of India's construction ecosystem still relies on outdated, paper-based processes. Clients often struggle to interpret technical drawings. Contractors work with inconsistent updates. Site issues remain undetected until costly delays or redesigns are necessary. The result? Frustration, budget overruns, and lost confidence. Knock The Builder tackles this long-standing problem with a platform that combines Virtual Reality (VR) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to provide a fully digital project experience. Before a single brick is laid, clients can take immersive walkthroughs of their homes or offices, preview material choices and lighting in real time, and raise concerns or approve changes -- all without stepping on-site. Every decision, update, and approval is logged and visible in one centralized, interactive dashboard. More than a visual aid, Knock The Builder serves as a digital command center for construction. Clients receive real-time updates synced with the project's BIM data, AI-assisted alerts for potential delays or design risks, and detailed communication logs to stay in control from day one to handover. As Rizwan explains, "We've worked with clients in over nine cities -- and many of them didn't visit their sites even once until the final handover. They had more confidence through the virtual walkthrough than they would have had with ten physical visits." What makes Knock The Builder even more unique is its commitment to enabling architects and contractors beyond big metros. The company is actively onboarding professionals from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities and equipping them with the tools and training needed to present immersive walkthroughs, reduce costly revision cycles, and engage effectively with remote clients. This inclusive, grassroots approach makes the platform a rare example of cutting-edge technology serving India's broader construction community. Looking ahead, Knock The Builder is already testing new capabilities such as augmented reality (AR) inspections, cloud-based construction dashboards for seamless collaboration, and AI-powered 3D design suggestions to enhance efficiency and precision. As India's real estate and interior sectors become more digitally inclined, the company is positioning itself as the default interface for smart, modern construction. Ultimately, Knock The Builder represents a paradigm shift. It removes the need for clients to chase down contractors or spend weekends touring dusty sites. Instead, it offers a seamless, tech-driven construction experience where speed, quality, and transparency go hand in hand. Because when you can walk through your dream home before it's built and control every step without ever being there -- construction becomes an empowering experience, not a gamble.
Hi Dubai
10-07-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Understanding BIM and Its Importance for Construction Projects in Dubai
Dubai's skyline is a marvel of modern design, and behind many of these stunning structures lies one powerful tool—Building Information Modeling, or BIM. But what makes this digital methodology such a game-changer for the city's construction sector? As Dubai moves toward smarter, more sustainable urban planning, BIM has become a must-have technology for architects, engineers, and developers who want to keep up with evolving demands. In this guide, we take a deep look at how BIM is shaping the future of construction in Dubai—from its core functionality to the latest software trends. What Exactly is BIM and Why Does It Matter Now More Than Ever? At its core, Building Information Modeling is a process that creates a digital replica of a building, capturing not just its geometry but also its materials, internal systems, schedules, and lifecycle data. Imagine having a virtual building you can test, tweak, and troubleshoot—long before a single brick is laid. This is precisely what BIM offers. In Dubai, where innovation meets scale, BIM has moved from being optional to becoming an industry standard. Since 2013, Dubai Municipality has mandated its use for major projects, aligning with the city's smart infrastructure goals. The latest tools, like Revit 2026, now feature AI-driven design options and smoother integration across platforms, further streamlining complex builds across the emirate. How Does BIM Benefit Dubai's Construction Landscape? What if you could save both time and money while improving communication across your team? That's what BIM delivers. On average, projects in Dubai using BIM report up to 30% faster delivery times and 20% cost savings. The platform enhances collaboration by giving everyone—architects, engineers, contractors—access to a single, shared model. This prevents misunderstandings and reduces the back-and-forth typically seen in large construction teams. Plus, BIM's clash detection feature ensures systems like plumbing and electrical don't interfere with each other during construction. With tools for energy modeling and environmental simulations, BIM also supports Dubai's sustainability targets. Beyond 3D: What Are the Multiple Dimensions of BIM? Most people think of BIM as a 3D modeling tool, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Have you heard of 4D, 5D, or even 7D BIM? Each dimension adds a new layer of insight: 3D – Visualizes design spatially. – Visualizes design spatially. 4D – Integrates time, allowing for construction scheduling and phasing. – Integrates time, allowing for construction scheduling and phasing. 5D – Adds cost tracking and real-time budgeting. – Adds cost tracking and real-time budgeting. 6D – Enables sustainability analysis and energy modeling. – Enables sustainability analysis and energy modeling. 7D – Focuses on facility management across the building's lifecycle. For a fast-moving city like Dubai, these layers aren't just technical features—they're strategic tools that help manage megaprojects with precision. What Rules and Standards Govern BIM Use in Dubai? Dubai doesn't just encourage BIM—it regulates it. Projects exceeding certain sizes (like buildings over 40 floors or 300,000 square feet) are required to use BIM. Specialized facilities like hospitals and government buildings fall under these guidelines too. The UAE BIM Association ensures that local standards align with global benchmarks, and the Dubai BIM Roadmap outlines a phased rollout aiming for full digital integration in construction by 2026. Staying compliant means staying educated—training programs such as those by Orbit Training are helping professionals stay on track. Can BIM Handle the Ambition of Dubai's Landmark Projects? When you look at architectural icons like the Burj Khalifa or the Museum of the Future, it's hard to imagine them without BIM. How do you coordinate thousands of components, design futuristic forms, and ensure nothing goes wrong? BIM allows architects to experiment with bold, parametric designs and engineers to simulate real-world forces like wind and heat. For structures with intricate curves and unconventional facades, BIM ensures everything works harmoniously—from steel reinforcements to smart sensors. It's the reason why Dubai continues to outpace global architectural trends. What Are the Common Challenges of BIM Adoption? Despite its advantages, BIM adoption doesn't come without hurdles. So why isn't every firm in Dubai using it already? Initial Cost: Software licenses, hardware upgrades, and staff training can be expensive. Software licenses, hardware upgrades, and staff training can be expensive. Resistance to Change: Many professionals still prefer traditional methods. Many professionals still prefer traditional methods. Skill Gap: There's a lack of qualified BIM professionals in the region. There's a lack of qualified BIM professionals in the region. Software Compatibility: Not all platforms talk to each other easily. Not all platforms talk to each other easily. Legal Grey Areas: Ownership and liability in shared models are still under debate. These challenges highlight the need for clear onboarding processes, well-structured training, and a company-wide mindset shift. Is BIM Really Effective for MEP and Infrastructure Design? Absolutely. In MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems, space constraints are common, and mistakes can be costly. BIM pinpoints issues before the build begins, saving time and materials. For infrastructure—think roads, bridges, underground utilities—BIM provides a bird's-eye view and a detailed ground-level perspective. It connects everything, helping planners ensure that utilities align, roads flow properly, and energy efficiency is maximized. With platforms like Revit MEP 2026, engineers can now simulate system performance using AI and real-time data. What's Next? The Future of BIM in Dubai What does the next chapter of BIM look like? Expect more AI-driven design suggestions, predictive simulations, and integration with Digital Twins. Augmented and virtual reality will soon be staples in planning and client presentations. BIM will also get smarter, learning from past projects to inform future ones. As Dubai pushes forward with its Smart City strategy, BIM will link with cloud systems, blockchain security layers, and sustainability metrics, making it a comprehensive tool for tomorrow's builders. Structural BIM: A Game-Changer for Tall and Tough Builds Designing a 60-storey tower? You'll need more than imagination. Structural BIM helps engineers simulate stress, optimize material use, and adapt designs based on Dubai's unique environment—like desert soil and high winds. Tools like Revit Structure 2026 allow seamless coordination between design and load-bearing logic, ensuring every beam and joint is accounted for. This also shortens construction timelines and prevents structural surprises on site. The Rise of BIM Education in Dubai With growing demand comes the need for better training. Universities, private institutes, and companies like Orbit Training are investing heavily in courses tailored to Dubai's market. From basic Revit modeling to advanced simulation techniques, professionals can now choose programs based on their role—whether they're architects, MEP engineers, or infrastructure planners. Certifications such as Autodesk Certified Professional are quickly becoming the new standard for career growth in the region. Comparing BIM Use Across Different Project Types in Dubai Project Type Main BIM Usage ROI Impact Adoption Level Key Challenge High-Rise Buildings Coordination, Structural Design High 85% System complexity Infrastructure GIS, Civil Integration Moderate 62% Large-scale data handling MEP Systems Clash Detection, System Efficiency High 78% Need for technical precision Interior Fit-Outs Material Planning, Visual Reviews Moderate 56% Integration with existing structures Hospitality Projects Space Design, Furniture Coordination High 70% High client design expectations Residential Mass Design, Unit Planning Moderate 65% Cost control Healthcare Equipment Planning, Lifecycle Mgmt Very High 82% Regulatory complexity Retail Centers Tenant Fit-Outs, Layout Adjustments Moderate 60% Frequent design changes Transport Hubs Flow Simulation, System Integration High 75% Multiple stakeholder alignment Educational Facilities Space Planning, Energy Use Moderate 68% Budget limitations Source: Orbit Training Center Dubai BIM is steadily becoming part of how construction projects are done in Dubai. It helps teams work together better, avoid errors, and plan more effectively. While there are still some challenges—like cost and training—the benefits are practical and easy to see. For anyone working in the construction field, learning how to use BIM tools is a useful step. As the industry changes, having these skills can help professionals stay prepared and do their jobs more efficiently. Also read: Top Construction Companies in Dubai - List of Contractors and Builders The list of the top construction companies in Dubai, UAE 2023. Best construction companies in Dubai. Top contracting companies in Dubai, UAE. Read more How Do Construction Companies in Dubai Ensure Quality Standards? Discover how construction companies in Dubai uphold quality standards in every project. From regulatory compliance to rigorous inspections and continuous improvement, explore the measures ensuring excellence. How Virtual Reality is Revolutionizing Real Estate Tours in Dubai Discover how Virtual Reality is transforming real estate tours in Dubai. Explore the latest trends, benefits for buyers and sellers, and future advancements in VR technology. Real Estate License In Dubai We tell you everything you need to know to obtain your real estate license in Dubai to establish your business in this city.
Borneo Post
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Permanent Secretary: Smart flood control system must evolve with climate, urban demands
(From third left) Desmond, Cassidy and other dignitaries touch the screen to symbolically launch the seminar. KUCHING (July 9): Sarawak must adopt smarter, more resilient flood control systems to cope with the dual pressures of rapid urbanisation and climate change, said Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Desmond Douglas Jerukan. He said the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, particularly floods, have made it clear that urgent and coordinated action is needed. 'Sarawak, like many rapidly urbanising regions around the world, is facing a growing set of challenges tied to climate change and urban development. 'The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather, especially floods, has made it clear that we must act decisively and collaboratively. 'Our cities, infrastructure and communities require flood management systems that are not only robust, but also intelligent and adaptable,' he said when officiating at the Seminar on Improving Flood Control in Stormwater Systems for Sarawak: Current Status, Challenges and Capabilities 2025 here yesterday. Desmond described the seminar as a timely platform that aligns with the state's broader development goals. 'It offers a much-needed space for technical exchange, strategic dialogue and innovation sharing. 'More importantly, it supports the aspirations outlined in Sarawak's Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. 'Under this strategy, our state is committed to achieving high-income status, environmental sustainability and social inclusivity through innovation and digital transformation,' he said. He stressed that flood resilience, stormwater management, and digital infrastructure must not be seen solely not just as engineering challenges, but as key enablers of economic growth, public safety and environmental protection. Desmond said the integrated approach discussed at the seminar reflects the importance of combining policy, technology and practical solutions to address issues such as outdated drainage in fast-developing areas, fragmented hydrological data, and a lack of coordinated planning across agencies. He noted that persistent challenges include ageing infrastructure, inconsistent data collection, and the complex nature of inter-agency coordination. The seminar offered a strategic overview of the state's current stormwater infrastructure and ongoing flood mitigation efforts, while highlighting relevant policy frameworks and digital innovations now reshaping how water systems are designed and managed. Topics covered included real-time data monitoring, predictive modelling and the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in infrastructure development. The event also underscored the importance of inter-agency coordination, data-sharing and capacity-building for long-term success. It also addressed key technical and operational challenges, including limited modelling accuracy and the need for stronger cross-jurisdictional collaboration. Also present as one of the keynote speakers was Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak director Dr Cassidy Morris. climate change Douglas Jerukan flood control systems urbanisation
