97 points in the same amount of time. This efficiency and speed didn’t come at the cost of accuracy. The RTS produced zero errors, while the team working manually had two RFIs, missing dimensions, and a serious layout bust for a mirrored “similar” floor plan. Laser-based rapid positioning tools (RPT) and global navigation satel- lite system (GNSS) receivers are similar in function and benefit to the RTS and allow steel and concrete contractors to choose the features and tolerances required for a given project. The most advanced RTS models not only handle the necessary mea- surements and calculations on the fly, they also provide powerful visu- alization options, such as photographic documentation and augmented reality-style overlays. They can also connect directly to powerful layout software solutions designed specifically for building contractors for true connectivity between the office and the field. Combined with hardware, software can seamlessly integrate the lay- out process into the overall construction workflow and provide layout professionals with access to constructible 3D Building Information Models (BIM) created by designers and detailers along with all the corresponding metadata. As layout progresses, information can be fed back into the model and updated in near real-time so all project stakeholders are kept informed. If changes need to be made, layout can adjust on-the-fly to avoid costly rework of their own. The resulting data gathered by connected equip- ment onsite can easily be viewed in context by all other stakeholders for purposes of clash detection, fabrication, and more. Once again, speed, efficiency, and accuracy are held to the highest standards as every phase of construction remains connected through powerful hard- ware and software solutions being used to complete the layout. Taking it to the Field The benefits of these tools are far reaching and apply to numerous layout tasks, including: Footings, Foundations, and Stem Walls. Check the placement of formwork, steps, block outs, and anchor bolts before, during, and after concrete is poured. Variations as slight as 1/8 of an inch can be instantly Hardware and software tools can be used to integrate layout into the overall workflow.
identified and corrected while the concrete is still wet. Steel Erection. Steel contractors not only need to layout their specific items, but also check concrete work to ensure attachment points are correct. Super Structure – Concrete Cores and Slabs. Verify placement and alignment of all openings and components embedded in the concrete to avoid expensive rework and the potential for future, dangerous damage. Slabs on Grade (SOG) or Deck (SOD). Ensure the flatness of slabs is within the tolerances needed for proper load bearing, flooring installa- tion, precision usage, and resistance to damaging weather. Super Structure – Precast Concrete and Steel Fabricators. Perform layout in the fabrication shop and carry the data directly to the site with no issues in translation. This ensures all project parties are clear on openings, attachments, embeds, anchors, pre- and post-pour camber for deck slabs, plumb, square and flatness, clips angles, bolt holes, stiffeners, complex assemblies and curves, pre-loaded camber and welding deformations. Looking Forward We have seen that problems during layout can have a snowball effect on the rest of the build and lead to costly RFIs, rework and even worse, safety hazards. After all, layout can constitute as much as 25 percent of a contractor’s costs. It’s no doubt that layout will continue to play a critical role in modern steel and concrete workflows. Moving beyond manual processes to leverage technology advances will help layout professionals meet the demands of increasingly complex projects, all while working faster, with unprecedented accuracy. BRYAN WILLIAMS, Segment Manager, Field Technology Group, Trimble Buildings. Bryan has nearly 30 years of international experience working in the construc- tion industry as a site engineer, construction surveyor, project supervisor and consultant. He has spent the last 16 years developing and marketing intelligent positioning solutions for the construction industry as part of Trimble’s Buildings. New technologies are bringing speed, efficiency, and accuracy to the layout process.
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csengineermag.com february 2020
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