Two software developers have created a system for integration between BIM models and time-lapse records, the first integration of its kind.
Users of Lobster Pictures’ bespoke viewer, Lobster Vision, can view and share a BIM model, accurately aligned with a high-resolution photographic record, helping achieve Level 2 or 3 BIM compliance.
Using a process Lobster Pictures has developed in collaboration with Synchro Software, a model is placed into the as-built photographic record, which can then be compared to any point in the past, or “fast forwarded” to view how the building will look into the future.
Using this pioneering and unique integration, customers can:
- Visualise how a building will look a month or a year into the build, or how it will look in the environment when it’s complete – without having to commission expensive visualisations.
- Review progress against expectation at any time by comparing the BIM model against the as-built record, providing irrefutable, transparent information and imagery, to understand what’s happening on site and ensure this is as expected, when expected, accurate to as little as 10 minutes.
The companies say that when the server-based model is updated, the process can produce an entirely new timeline to reflect the changes, ensuring the model is always accurate and in date.
The software allows a model to be placed into the as-built photographic record
The single model can be shared among stakeholders and suppliers without the need for everyone to own BIM software. This aids collaborative working during the entire project duration, providing comprehensive information to all parties at each and every stage to help manage the build process.
“The integration we have developed between Lobster Vision and Synchro’s 4D models provides immediate and useful visual benefits. It is the foundation for a suite of tools that can measure, monitor and visualise construction projects,” said Robbie Allen, founder and managing director of Lobster Pictures.
“The time, cost and dispute reductions that BIM can bring are astounding, and BIM-enabled Lobster Vision is an easily implemented visual and time-based platform that can be a critical part of this Process.”
Synchro Software’s 4D digital construction platform serves the global market for building, civil infrastructure, roads, bridges, healthcare, high-rise, industrial process, oil and gas, alternative energy and mining.
Combining traditional Gantt chart critical path measurement scheduling with integrated 4D visualisation capabilities in real time, enables project delivery teams to consistently deliver safer, more efficient, and higher quality construction with reliability.
The integration we have developed between Lobster Vision and Synchro’s 4D models provides immediate and useful visual benefits. It is the foundation for a suite of tools that can measure, monitor and visualise construction projects.– Robbie Allen, Lobster Pictures.
