structural designers, and other engineers involved in the project coordinated their work using Trimble Connect, a cloud-based common data environment (CDE) and collaboration platform. The 3D models were uploaded to the platform shared across stakeholders for coordination, clash detection and recording comments, tracking related work and closing out completed tasks. "Email exchange isn't the best way to track model comments, so we kept everything in Trimble Connect," said Clannachan. "It's really good to collaborate in a 3D environment so that nothing slips through the net. Trimble Connect also produces fantastic, colorized images for embodied carbon reporting." Making Parametric Design Accessible Although parametric modeling may seem complex, direct links between BIM software and visual programming tools, such as Grasshopper, make it possible for structural engineers like Arup to leverage parametric workflows without prior programming knowledge. "I always try to look for ways to do each project better than the one before, rather than just defaulting to repeating the same methods," said Clannachan. "Pushing automation into our workflows makes us more efficient in how we deliver projects and respond to changes. The structural team believed in what we were doing and put a lot of hard work into developing these tools, which we can now use on the next project." With dynamic automation, increased accuracy and rapid iterations, the benefits of parametric design are undeniable. While it can be used for any project large or small, it's especially advantageous in complex structures with unconventional architecture. Using
parametric design takes the modeling process to the next level and makes it possible to streamline work, create high-quality designs, and deliver successful projects.
STEVE INSLEY is Business Director UK and Ireland, Trimble.
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June 2023 csengineermag.com
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