In the last issue of Working Pressure, I discussed the impact that communication gaps between plumbing design engineers and plumbing contractors can have on construction projects. It is my opinion that increasing direct communication between the plumbing design engineer and the plumbing contractor will positively impact the industry. In addition to establishing a line of communication between the contractor and engineer, the use of new software and hardware can assist in improving the design and construction process.
During design and the early stages of construction, clash detection can be performed using the Navisworks software on 3D Revit models. Clash detection generates a report of all areas within a project that indicate an interference between items; for example, a pipe that is modeled running through a beam or a sanitary line below the ceiling.
Mixed reality can also be used during design and construction. Mixed reality combines the real world and the virtual world with the use of products such as Microsoft HoloLens. Microsoft HoloLens is a headset with glasses that can be used on the construction site allowing users to view a 3D design model within an existing space. Recently, Trimble released a hardhat which conforms to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014, Type 1, Class E, which is compatible with Microsoft HoloLens and allows for a quick removal of HoloLens in the event
of an emergency.
Bluebeam Revu is a program that can be utilized throughout the design and construction process. It provides tools for the user to modify or create PDF files, and Bluebeam Studio utilizes cloud storage for the project team to access the drawings for simultaneous review and comment. Drawing text can become searchable, drawings can be overlaid to review any differences, and measurements can be made on the drawings. It can be utilized for managing all project documents, allowing for one storage location for all team members to access throughout construction.
During construction, software such as PlanGrid allows for drawings and documents, including submittals, to be uploaded to a cloud-based site that all members of the project team can access from a computer or mobile device. Requests for Information (RFIs) can be generated in the field with notes or photos attached to the drawing. An email notification can then be sent to selected members of the project team who need to be aware of the RFI and involved in the resolution.
A punch list can be created by an engineer in the field and they can assign issues to the contractor directly within the program, or a pdf of the report can be created for distribution.
Facility Grid is a similar application that is focused on streamlining the commissioning process. The commissioning agent may create an issues log with the program for the contractor and design engineer to review. The required checklists prior to functional testing can be completed through the app, on the job site, as each item is completed, rather than entered into a form on a computer or requiring the contractor to submit written copies of the checklists.
How can the plumbing contractor and plumbing design engineer utilize this technology together? If clash detection is being utilized, both parties can attend a meeting to review the conflicts and address them early in the construction process. As a plumbing contractor submitting an RFI, perhaps the purposed routing of a pipe by the contractor is denied due to a condition the engineer is aware of, which will require several emails back and forth to find an acceptable resolution, which could take a few days. Taking advantage of Bluebeam Studio and a conference call, the contractor and the engineer could mark up and discuss potential options simultaneously and develop a solution within a single conversation.
All new technology requires a learning curve and there are multiple companies who provide different versions of the software/hardware discussed. The potential for these tools to benefit a project relies on a single component – communication. These tools were developed with the intent to streamline the design and construction processes, but are most beneficial when used by the project team rather than an individual. The communication gap between the plumbing design contractor and plumbing design engineer must be eliminated in order utilize new technology to its fullest potential.
