Similarities and Differences between BIM Methodology and Digital Twins

similitudes y diferencias entre bim y gemelo digital

In the field of construction, architecture, and building management, the BIM methodology and Digital Twins are fundamental tools for developing models that promote accurate work, provide a management strategy focused on information, and allow for precision in purchasing, maintenance planning, and information transfer between teams.

Although many professionals consider a BIM model to be the same as a Digital Twin, this is not correct, as both technologies complement each other to improve efficiency. In this brief post, we want to share a table with the similarities and differences between BIM and Digital Twins.

Aspect BIM Methodology Digital Twin
What is it? A BIM model is a 3D digital model that realistically represents the design and construction of a building or infrastructure. It also provides centralized project information, allowing for accurate knowledge of the construction characteristics, promoting efficiency, accuracy, and coordination between areas. The digital twin is a realistic, virtual, and dynamic representation of a physical asset in real-time.
Which phase of the asset is it used in? Mainly in design and construction. However, it has also started to be used in maintenance and property management work. Digital twins are useful for projecting activities such as operation, maintenance, and management of the physical asset.
What is its purpose? Improve coordination, communication, and interoperability between company areas to reduce errors, generate objective coordination strategies, and achieve greater cost efficiency. Digital twins allow us to create simulations to anticipate failures, errors, stress tests, etc.
Data update The data is updated in real-time during the construction process. In the Digital Twin, information can be dynamic and continuously updated with real-time data collected from IoT devices.
Simulation properties Allows for the generation of scenarios during design and construction. Allows for real-time simulation and analysis activities based on real asset information.
Interoperability Compatible with various popular software packages for construction professionals. Uses data dynamically integrated from sensors, IoT devices, and other systems.

As you can see in this table, the BIM methodology and Digital Twins are useful but complementary tools that can be used—one adding more value during the development phase of projects and the other in the asset management phase.

If you want to learn more about our digital twin services, BIM consulting, or BIM modeling, do not hesitate to contact us; we are specialists and at your service. Contact us today!

Is a Topographic Survey Necessary for Building Construction?

levantamiento topografico para construcción de edificios

The answer to this question is YES.

A topographic survey is an essential study for the construction of any building, regardless of its size or location. This study provides architects and engineers with an accurate and detailed view of the area. Through a topographic survey, it is possible to plan actions related to the project, such as earthworks and foundation design. Additionally, a topographic survey can influence the design and construction of the structure. Even in areas that appear flat at first glance, a topographic survey is crucial to ensure that the building’s foundations are correctly placed, preventing future structural issues.

Why Should I Conduct a Topographic Survey in an Apparently Flat Area?

A terrain that seems flat to the naked eye may conceal various irregularities, such as slopes, changes in soil type, or even the presence of underground water bodies. A professional topographic survey helps identify these and other factors, ensuring that the building’s design adapts perfectly to the natural characteristics of the land. Moreover, it ensures proper drainage and soil stability, minimizing the risks of settlements or landslides that could compromise the building’s integrity.

Risks of Constructing a Building Without a Topographic Survey

Building without an adequate topographic survey can lead to a series of serious problems, including:

  • Unevenly settled foundations
  • Inadequate drainage leading to soil erosion issues
  • Errors in the alignment of the building
  • Additional costs due to unforeseen construction errors
  • Environmental impact

What Type of Topography is Recommended for Building Construction?

For the construction of a building, several types of topographic studies are recommended, such as:

  • Topographic survey with planimetry and altimetry
  • Geodetic survey
  • Survey with LIDAR or photogrammetry
  • Soil study

In summary, a topographic survey is a 100% necessary study for any type of construction. It is also advisable to conduct progressive topographic surveys as the construction progresses to avoid errors.

If you need to contact a topography company, we invite you to reach out to Acero Estudio. We have 25 years of specialization in topographic services and surveys in Peru and Spain. We use cutting-edge technology and techniques, including our topography services with drones and drone photogrammetry.

Contact us today – we’re here to help!

Benefits and Applications of Aerial Photogrammetry: An Evolving Discipline

representacion digital de terreno obtenida mediante la tecnica de la fotogrametria con drones

Aerial photogrammetry is an essential tool for sectors that require detailed terrain mapping from an aerial perspective. Its applications are varied and encompass multiple areas, such as:

  • Cartography: Creation of precise topographic maps.
  • Urban planning: Efficient management of infrastructure construction.
  • Civil engineering: Supervision and development of projects.
  • Agriculture: Detailed analysis of soils and crops.
  • Disaster management: Rapid and accurate assessment of affected areas.

Currently, aerial photogrammetry relies on advanced technologies, with drone fleet (UAVs) being a key platform for capturing images from the air. Equipped with high-precision cameras and specialized sensors, these drones can cover large areas in significantly less time than traditional methods.

Moreover, advances in software have enabled the creation of digital 3D terrain models with remarkable precision. This software also facilitates the integration of data into Geographic Information Systems (GIS), enhancing analysis and decision-making in complex projects.

Some of the most notable benefits of aerial photogrammetry compared to other methods of territorial data capture include:

  • Speed in obtaining information.
  • High precision in the collected data.
  • Capability to cover extensive areas with a high level of detail.

Unlike geodesy or traditional topographic surveys, which require more time and personnel in the field, aerial photogrammetry allows for measurements to be taken from the air in much less time without compromising accuracy. Additionally, the ability to generate three-dimensional models provides a more complete and useful view of the terrain, facilitating both planning and project execution.

If you are looking for high-quality aerial photogrammetry and topographic survey services, we invite you to get to know Acero Estudio. We specialize in the use of drones and advanced technology to provide precise and efficient solutions. Our team of experts, with extensive experience in drone piloting and data processing, is ready to help you generate valuable information for your projects.

Contact us, and let’s discuss how we can collaborate to maximize the success of your projects. We are at your service.

Acero Estudio, the Best Surveying Company in Peru

nuestro equipo de profesionales especializados en servicio de topografia, levantamiento topografico, consultoria bim y servicios cad

If you are looking for a surveying company, you have come to the right place. Acero Estudio is the right choice, a highly specialized company providing surveying services in Peru and Spain. We have conducted topographic studies for infrastructure projects, construction projects, cadastral activities, residential and industrial constructions, among others.

With over 25 years of experience in Latin America (Peru) and Spain, we have established strong partnerships with the largest and most respected companies, achieving a large number of satisfied clients.

Our Technology

Technological development has also impacted our sector, leading us to extensively use the best technology to achieve faster and more economically efficient results. Therefore, in addition to traditional surveying services, we offer cutting-edge techniques such as:

  • Drone surveying
  • LIDAR
  • Aerial photogrammetry
  • Coastal and mining drone surveying

At Acero Estudio, we adapt to the specific needs of each project to guarantee precise and efficient results.

What Techniques Do We Develop?

Among the specialized techniques we implement are:

  • Polygonal surveying
  • Geometric leveling
  • Drone surveying
  • Drone photogrammetry
  • Topographic surveys
  • Geodesy services

With professionals specialized in each of these methodologies, we can offer precise and comprehensive data essential for the planning and execution of works of any scale and complexity.

We invite you to contact us and become part of our satisfied clients, benefiting from the quality of our work, punctuality, and responsibility in everything we do. At Acero Estudio, we are committed to excellence and your satisfaction.

Strategies for Improving Pedestrian Accessibility through Aerial Photogrammetry

Pedestrian accessibility in public infrastructure is crucial for the efficient and safe mobility of people. In Lima, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was necessary to strategically plan the mobility of people in the network of Metropolitano stations.

This study was necessary because people needed to circulate with the least possible crowding, maximizing efficiency, and minimizing the risk of infections. Acero Estudio contributed its expertise in aerial photogrammetry, orthophotos, and GPS technologies to achieve this goal.

Study for Improving Pedestrian Accessibility in the Metropolitano

The Acero Estudio team in Peru conducted a conceptual study focused on the restitution and improvement of pedestrian accessibility at the Metropolitano stations in Lima. This project included the following tasks:

  • Geodesy
  • Drone flights
  • Restitution of the designated area
  • Presentation of results and improvement proposals

Methodology and Project Execution

Given the current COVID-19 pandemic situation, all activities were carried out under strict preventive measures and with the necessary medical examinations for the technicians involved in the project. The process was carried out in the following steps:

  1. Placement of Geodetic Points at each station
  2. Linking with the coordinate system of the National Geographic Institute (IGN)
  3. Measurement of points using differential GPS with dual frequency
  4. Location of support points for drone flight restitution
  5. Marking points and measuring with GPS
  6. Obtaining high-precision data in real-time

Drone Flight Execution and Data Processing

Drone flights were conducted over the 33 Metropolitano stations at an appropriate height, considering the height of buildings and other existing elements in the environment. For this, a DJI Phantom 4 Pro drone equipped with a 20-megapixel camera was used. The photogrammetric images obtained were processed to generate a point cloud and an orthophoto of each station.

Deliverables and Study Results

The results of this study provided an important working basis for both Metropolitano officials and city health policymakers to understand the objective situation and establish appropriate strategies to reduce infection rates and virus spread at the Metropolitano stations in Lima.

Contact Us, We Are Drone Photogrammetry Specialists

At Acero Estudio, we specialize in drone photogrammetry and LIDAR services. We perform our services with the highest technology on the market, promoting the development of engineering and architectural projects. Contact us and consult with us; we are at your service.

What Are the Marks Drawn During a Topographic Survey For?

puntos de levantamiento topografico

As you already know, topographic studies are of great utility to the construction and architecture industry as they provide the basic initial information necessary to undertake any construction or engineering work. With this in mind, it is important to consider that any project must have a serious topographic study before laying the first stone or even before creating a plan.

The Importance of a Topographic Survey Before Architectural Plans

The discipline of architecture involves the projection of elegant and beautiful constructions, but more than that, it consists of creating practical, useful, durable, and functional buildings.

Topography supports architects by providing the most relevant information so these professionals can develop their plans as adequately as possible. Consider, for example, the slope of the land and its importance for the design of sanitary installations. If the topographic plan does not provide this information to the architect, they will not be able to correctly locate bathrooms, drains, cisterns, etc. In this case, the lack of a topographic survey could lead to a series of problems resulting from an improvised plan.

Another paradigm is land with a diagonal slope. In this case, the architectural plan must consider not only the calculations for the front slope but also for the lateral slope, which will be necessary for the execution phase to make the necessary projections in earth movements, material acquisition, and other activities prior to construction.

Purpose of the Marks Made During a Topographic Survey

Now, let’s return to the topic of this article: the importance and purpose of the marks drawn on the ground during a topographic survey. These are reference points that serve both architects and engineers in developing their design and construction plans. These marks can be made from various materials such as wooden stakes, nails, tapes, paint, or chalk on the ground. It is important that they are made with visible and durable materials that allow surveyors and other construction professionals to identify these guide points.

What Relationship Do the Marks Have With Plans and Construction?

They have a direct relationship. The data collected and marked on the site is transferred to detailed plans that faithfully represent the terrain and its characteristics. These plans are essential for architects, engineers, and builders to have an accurate representation and location of the site on which the construction work will begin.

In the construction process, the marks allow workers to know exactly where to place foundations, structures, and reinforcements; they facilitate the alignment and leveling of the constructions and ensure that everything is built according to the design specifications. In other words, it is important to have them to guarantee that structures are built accurately and safely.

If you want to learn more about our topography services, contact Acero Estudio, a consulting company specialized in services for the construction and architecture sector.

Uses and Characteristics of the Total Station in Surveying

estacion total en la topografía

The total station is an essential tool in surveying due to its versatility and ease in measuring distances and angles. This tool combines the functions of a theodolite and a distance meter, allowing for the precise measurement of horizontal and vertical angles. Below are the main features and uses of this important tool:

Main Functions

Angle Measurement: The total station is capable of measuring horizontal and vertical angles with high precision, essential for the exact delineation of points on the Earth’s surface.

Distance Measurement: Equipped with laser technology, this device can measure distances with an accuracy of up to 1 mm, facilitating the acquisition of exact data.

Coordinate Calculation: Using trigonometry and triangulation, the total station determines the coordinates of specific points, providing values for (x), (y), and (z) (altitude).

Data Storage: This instrument includes internal memory or an electronic notebook to store and process the collected data, improving efficiency and accuracy in fieldwork.

Applications

  • Construction: Fundamental for the planning and execution of construction projects, ensuring that structures are correctly positioned according to designed plans.
  • Cartography: Used in creating detailed maps, providing precise information about the terrain’s topography.
  • Civil Engineering: Essential for the design and construction of infrastructure, ensuring that projects are carried out with precision and according to technical requirements.
  • Topographic Surveys: Crucial for determining the shape and characteristics of the terrain, facilitating informed decision-making in development projects.

Comparison with Other Instruments

Total Station

  • Functions: Combines a theodolite and an electronic distance meter, allowing simultaneous measurement of angles and distances.
  • Uses: Ideal for detailed topographic surveys, construction, and engineering projects.
  • Advantages: High precision, electronic data storage, and the ability to calculate coordinates directly.
  • Disadvantages: More expensive and requires specific training.

Theodolite

  • Functions: Measures horizontal and vertical angles but not distances.
  • Uses: Used in surveying to measure angles in complex terrains.
  • Advantages: Precise in angle measurement, more economical than the total station.
  • Disadvantages: Does not measure distances electronically, which may require additional tools.

Electronic Level

  • Functions: Measures height differences between points using a laser beam or an optical level.
  • Uses: Common in construction for leveling land and structures.
  • Advantages: Easy to use, fast, and precise in height measurement.
  • Disadvantages: Does not measure angles or horizontal distances.

Summary of Differences

  • Total Station: Measures angles and distances electronically, ideal for complex projects.
  • Theodolite: Measures only angles, suitable for tasks that do not require distance measurement.
  • Electronic Level: Measures heights, perfect for leveling in construction.

As noted in this brief compendium of information, the total station stands out as an integral tool in modern surveying, offering precision and efficiency in measuring angles and distances. Its angle measurement, distance measurement, and data storage capabilities also make it useful in construction projects, cartography, civil engineering, and topographic surveys.

Contact us, at Acero Estudio we are specialists in topography surveys and services for the construction and architecture industry.

Planning in a Topographic Survey

estudio topografico para construcción de malecon turistico frente a laguna

Planning is always necessary for any project, but for a topographic survey project, it is essential. The lack of personnel or components can cause a workday to be cut short or incomplete without proper preparation of the staff and equipment.

Here are important tips we implement at Acero Estudio to develop successful topographic studies:

  1. Determining the Area and Objectives of the Survey: It is crucial to clearly define the study area and the specific objectives of the survey. This allows for efficient focusing of efforts and resources and ensures an in-depth understanding of the needs of each project.
  2. Determining the Equipment to Use: Selecting the right equipment is crucial. Common equipment includes total stations, electronic levels, GPS navigators, and drones. The selection of technology depends on the terrain’s characteristics and the project’s objectives.
  3. Planning the Personnel for the Job: It is necessary to assign the appropriate personnel, including the number of surveyors, prism operators, and assistants. Proper planning of the human team ensures that the survey is carried out efficiently and safely.
  4. Collecting Topographic Information: This step involves collecting accurate and detailed data about the terrain. It is one of the most tedious parts, especially when conducting a traditional topographic survey. The quality of the collected information is vital for the project’s success.
  5. Data Processing and Office Work: Once the data is obtained and tabulated in a system, it needs to be processed and analyzed using software. This includes error correction and the generation of detailed reports.
  6. Creating Topographic Information in CAD or BIM Compatible Format: Finally, it is essential to convert the topographic information into formats compatible with computer-aided design (CAD) software or Building Information Modeling (BIM). This facilitates its use by engineers and architects in the subsequent phases of the project.

It is also important to note that surveyors, based on their experience, will provide additional information regarding the project, such as soil types, loose materials on slopes, and other information that adds value and preventive information to the project. Therefore, it is important to hire a specialized company in topographic services, such as Acero Estudio, to ensure the quality and accuracy of the work.

Errors in topography, what they are and what we do to avoid them

como evitamos errores en topografia

In topography, as in any other human activity, failures and errors can arise due to human factors, environmental conditions, system failures, or previously gathered information that was not corroborated.

At Acero Estudio, a company specialized in topographic services, we are fully aware that errors will always occur, but we have tools to detect and correct them promptly, especially since many large-scale works and projects depend on our topographic surveys.

In this regard, we have identified the following types of errors:

  1. Human Errors: These can occur due to poor environmental conditions that affect perception or factors that can temporarily affect the person (such as illness, headaches, or others).To avoid this type of error, we have a data verification protocol where, through a random sample of points, we can determine the accuracy of the study. If the pattern remains within the expected parameters with a minimal level of error, the information is validated; otherwise, the data collection may need to be redone.
  2. System Errors: Sometimes, a system failure, misconfiguration, or loss of proper calibration can lead to incorrect data collection. This is very dangerous but also detectable through protocols where different measurement methods are used, which should result in similar outcomes, allowing us to quickly identify any discrepancies.
  3. Unpredictable Errors: These types of errors are difficult to detect and infrequent. However, with data verification protocols, it is possible to find them quickly.

Remember, if you need to hire a company specialized in topographic studies, topographic surveys, or drone topography, you only need to contact us. We are here to help you consolidate the best information for your construction or architectural project.

Benefits of Outsourcing BIM Modeling

benefits of bim modeling outsourcing

You are already familiar with the benefits of the BIM methodology and our BIM consulting services for construction and architecture firms. However, if you still believe that these activities should be carried out in-house, this article provides a list of the benefits of outsourcing BIM modeling services due to the flexibility in labor aspects and scalability.

Here are the benefits of outsourcing BIM services:

I. Access to Specialists

By outsourcing BIM services, you gain access to highly experienced and skilled professionals in BIM model development. If your company is just starting to implement the methodology, we recommend not risking your projects in inexperienced hands; contact us to ensure experience and quality.

II. Cost Reduction

While hiring a specialized BIM modeling company may seem expensive at first glance, this is likely because you are not factoring in various costs such as setting up machines for the specialists, purchasing software packages, and hiring specialized personnel. Outsourcing eliminates the need to invest in rapidly depreciating assets and personnel that generate higher fixed costs, in addition to increased administrative requirements and burdens.

III. Greater Flexibility

Outsourcing BIM modeling allows your company to be flexible and adaptable to various types of projects, from smaller to large-scale projects. Adjusting the level of resources according to project demand is a characteristic that can make your company adaptable to market changes.

IV. Focus on Your Business

It is often said that a company should focus on its core business, and this is true. Delegating BIM modeling to specialists allows companies to concentrate on their primary and strategic activities, improving overall efficiency and productivity. Coordination and follow-up with the contracted company are important but require less time and effort, which should be dedicated to further developing the business.

V. Speed of Delivery

Specialist BIM modeling service providers, such as Acero Estudio, have the experience, resources, and qualified personnel to complete projects, even very extensive ones, quickly and within demanding delivery deadlines.

VI. Increased Competitiveness

By improving the quality and efficiency of BIM modeling, companies can offer better services to their clients, increasing their competitiveness in the market.

Contact us an improve your effiency, we are to help you.