Prefabricated Building Services Engineering

They are an undeniable presence in every home and commercial building: building systems. Whether it involves plumbing, electrical, IT, or HVAC systems, the role of technology in our environment has increased dramatically in recent decades. An industrial, prefabricated approach to these systems is still in its infancy in this sector. BIM4Production® also helps installation companies achieve their goals in scaling up the prefabricated production of system cabinets, cable harnesses, or HVAC systems. When industrializing this production, there are four developments to take into account.

1. Sequential production
The degree of prefabrication depends on the specific installation technique. The “component” of the installation is also relevant. A meter cabinet or “wet room” (bathroom) can be installed relatively faster in a prefabricated production process than a wiring harness that must be routed in a specific way within a prefabricated module. Based on the installation concept and BIM model, it is important to know which components are placed where and where the connections (connection points) are located. In addition, it is also important to pay attention to the logistical processing in the prefabrication chain. For example: having the correct prefab cable harness for the correct prefab residential unit arranged in the proper order on the transport cart.

Because each element has a unique position in BIM4Production®, all element details can be quickly accessed—not only during production, but also years after installation. Each element is linked to a document library that includes, among other things, the engineering documentation and the 3D and 2D drawings. This way, employees know exactly where and which technical connection points are needed.

2. Deployment and Use of Materials and Components
A hallmark of building services engineering is the use of many (sub)materials. Any given installation consists of a combination of various “components” from just as many different manufacturers and suppliers. In terms of liability, it is becoming increasingly important for delivery, maintenance, and service purposes to have a clear understanding of the composition of the technical solutions provided. BIM4Production® displays a “list” of the components used for each element as soon as you scan the unique element code. This includes 2D drawings and, when automation permits, the supply chain as well.

3. Ensuring Quality
In the Netherlands, we set high standards for the safety of installations. These are laid out in various standards, laws, and regulations. The quality assurance process begins during the design phase of installations. These requirements must be continuously monitored throughout the prefabrication process. Meeting these standards often takes a lot of time and places high demands on your staff. BIM4Production® assists in this process. For example, with the element app. During the drafting phase, each element is assigned a unique QR code or RFID tag. Any employee can scan this to fill out checklists and add photos via a smartphone or tablet. This makes it possible to quickly and transparently demonstrate at a later date that everything was manufactured, delivered, and installed in the prefabrication environment in accordance with current regulations.

4. Flexibility and Removability of Systems
From the perspective of sustainable maintenance and renovation, there is an increasing focus on demountable construction. This also applies to prefabricated systems, such as plug-in systems or climate control units mounted on the exterior facade of a building. It is therefore important to know where the connection and disconnection points for this technology are located.

Because each element has a unique position in BIM4Production®, all element details can be quickly accessed—not only during production but also years after installation. Each element is linked to a document library that includes, among other things, the engineering documentation and the 3D and 2D drawings. This way, employees know exactly where the connection and disconnection points are within the element.