We provide a range of computer aided design solutions General Contractors (Main Contractors) to support effective and profitable construction of large construction projects
General Contractors (Main Contractors) bear the ultimate risk for timely completion of projects and as a result they appreciate that effective design that is completed on time is critical to the overall success of the project. XS CAD is employed by General Contractors in the US, Canada, Australia and the UK to support the design process for architectural, structural and MEP disciplines.
Structural and Architectural Modeling
We create 3D building models using the latest software from Autodesk (including Revit and AutoCAD) to ensure that the proposed design for a contractor is constructible. By modeling the structural elements (steel, concrete, beams, cores, columns, slabs etc) and architectural elements (internal walls, stairs, doors, windows, cladding systems etc) we are able to assess whether the design data will result in a clash free solution. We check for interferences using clash detection software (Navisworks) and we refer clashes back to the designers, making changes to the model until clashes are removed and the model is clash free.
As well as creation of 3d models for structural and architectural validation, we also use the model to create 4D models to simulate the build and construction process. Architectural and structural 3d models are then used for further design phases such as MEP validation and MEP coordination. At XS CAD we advocate Revit Architecture as the preferred platform as it provides a BIM model as the output.
MEP Coordination
An increasing number of contractors now take responsibility for the delivery of a coordinated solution that includes the MEP (M&E) Coordination element. When the structural and architectural model is completed and clash free, XS CAD is asked to carry out the MEP spatial coordination and 3d modeling element. Once this is also clash free, we then create detailed construction drawings that are used by the MEP Trades and M&E Contractors.
We use both AutoCAD MEP and Revit MEP (to create BIM models) to prepare 3d coordinated MEP models, although an increasing number of contractors now require BIM models and therefore Revit MEP, which has the added benefit of allowing bespoke family creation (for example for bracketing) and also automated schedule creation.
Integrated Project Delivery
Increasingly, we provide contractors with BIM (Building Information Modeling) solution as part of the Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) process. IPD was established as a framework to reduce wastage, avoid duplication and therefore streamline construction projects.
Not only does IPD reinforce common practices and common software for design (modeling) but it also ensures that there is a common understanding around the management of design data including online collaboration, controlled file sharing and controlling of design updates. IPD also focuses on bringing the supply chain closer together, earlier in the process, so that the entire project team can contribute to design as well as construction decisions.
XS CAD currently provides inputs into various stages of IPD projects, providing BIM models and drawings across disciplines throughout the design, fabrication and installation process.
You can read more about our services to General Contractors/Main Contractors by reading our BIM Modeling, Architectural Modeling and MEP Coordination pages. You can also visit Our Work to see some of our recent work and project examples.
