Consider a skyscraper. Clearly there are scalable systems that need to be employed in managing such a BIM model. At Micrographics we consult on these systems and technologies and can help you tackle projects in this arena. As the lead Designer it will be expected that you interface and accommodate all disciplines. How you do this will be stipulated in the BIM Execution Plan and as long as everyone adheres to the rules, the collaboration will be a success.
While it may not always seem relevant in the South African context, there is no guarantee you will not become involved in such a project on the international stage. If you are an Architect and you are ignorant of the way in which Engineers manage their systems in Revit, my recommendation is you learn how they work so your model may make their tasks easier. You do not need to be an Engineer to understand the basics of Revit MEP, and certainly not how to design an Architectural model that is friendly for them to manage.
Engineers need to connect their equipment up to systems. This equipment have connectors that need to be assigned to a combination of HVAC, Piping, Plumbing and Electrical systems!
These systems may span many floors and zones.
Families may not be swapped out without breaking connections. So how will the Engineers divide up the model to manage it as best as possible? Will they collaborate in the same model (and perhaps use collaboration for Revit to do so)? Will they copy and monitor the components across from each other’s files? Will they use symbols with connectors and match their properties to the components in other systems? To appreciate the complexity, refer to this Revit Idea and perhaps vote for it:
All these questions need to be resolved in the BIM Execution Plan before the project is begun. Its best to enter such situations with a basic understanding of the principals involved. Talk to us if you need help in this regard, and consider sending some Architectural power users on an MEP course.
