Meyer Najem is constantly evaluating new technology. Whenever we find new technology that will bring value to us and our clients, we are adopting it. In the implementation phase, we are ensuring that new technology makes us better builders and strengthens our projects.
Driven through advancements in virtual design and construction, Meyer Najem utilizes our capabilities to create 3D renderings and walk-throughs of our projects. Advancements in clash detection and reality capture help to bring challenges to the table before construction begins, saving time and money.
Having a visual perspective from an aerial viewpoint with drone technology is improving efficiencies from many standpoints in the construction process. Quantifying material with model-based estimating creates an even more accurate budget. This helps our team create impactful solutions for clients.
A Better Way to Build
At Meyer Najem, we believe there is a better way to build. We are passionate about innovation and how we integrate emerging technologies into our construction projects. Whether it be preconstruction, during construction or post-construction, we have the in-house staff and expertise to offer an array of differentiated services. This allows us to exceed the needs of our project stakeholders, owners, and clients. Aligning our technologies with proven construction processes and experience have resulted in success time and time again.
Rendering and Walk-Throughs
Building Information Modeling (BIM) incorporates the use of technology to develop 3D models for design, construction, and sustainability, as well as building operations and maintenance. These models allow the entire project team to effectively share information – discovering potential issues, collaborating on design adjustments, and reviewing constructability before construction begins.
“We’re able to answer a lot of the hard questions for the client and coordinate big decisions early on,” says Nick DiRenzo, virtual design and construction manager of Meyer Najem. “We are able to apply finishes and look at the building layout. These things are critical for owners to make early decisions. Previously, in traditional delivery methods, it would be months before owners could walk the completed building, whereas now they are able to visualize the end product.”
Clash Detection
Clash detection works in collaboration with 3D modeling, identifying where elements of the design interfere with each other. With clash detection, our team creates models, overlaying them into our software to ensure that every aspect of the design works cohesively and is compatible. The process can also lower the overall construction costs and address any unnecessary delays prior to fabrication, minimizing overruns.
“In Meyer Najem’s clash detection process, each subcontractor creates a model for the scope of work that they are responsible for installing,” says DiRenzo. “They will adjust the layout, and together, we review those models in our meetings. We talk about how they fit in the building. This process will continue until we have a building that is ready for construction.”
Model-Based Estimating
Model-based estimating enables real-time cost estimation. Information embedded in the BIM models allows our team to quantify the 3D design almost instantaneously at every stage throughout design development, allowing our team to produce faster and more accurate estimates.
“In this era, we are able to leverage technology more efficiently in estimating,” says Patrick Davis, preconstruction manager at Meyer Najem. “From obtaining models directly from the architect, to creating models ourselves, it helps us spend more time working on pricing and how we can create solutions – rather than the time it used to take us to quantify those materials.”
Reality Capture
Reality capture involves the use of technologies like 3D laser scanners and high-definition 360-degree cameras to collect existing or as-built conditions for use during design, construction, and operations.
“We recently utilized reality capture for a client in Indianapolis that purchased a building that didn’t have any drawings available – and they wanted to do a renovation,” says DiRenzo. “We scanned the building and created as-built drawing for them to start the design from.”
Laser scanning tools capture field conditions quickly and accurately, revealing any possible inconsistencies between what is actual and what is represented in the design. This process helps optimize schedules, reduce change orders, increase predictability in the field and enhance quality assurance.
“We had a project extend ductwork up through an empty third floor,” says Chris McCracken, executive vice president at Meyer Najem. “The empty third floor was supposed to be used for patient rooms. In any patient room setting, the hospital wants to get the highest ceiling heights they can. The client had a lot of existing utilities that were run in the exposed ceiling. We scanned it and then utilized 3D modeling software to understand where the ductwork would conflict with electrical lines, as well as existing med gas lines and ductwork.”
Drone Technology
Drone technology enables us to efficiently capture aerial views of our construction projects. This footage allows us to track project progress, monitor site safety, perform inspections in hard-to-reach areas and market our projects in a unique way. This is a favorite tool among our construction teams.
“Drones are a great way to leverage technology in a construction environment that too many people don’t think about,” says Matt Weaver, chief technology officer at Meyer Najem.
As an observation tool, one of the ways Meyer Najem utilizes the imagery is through weekly updates with project owners. This helps with project tracking and providing owners with an overall idea of where the project is in progression.
Meyer Najem will continue to use these technologies to deliver best-in-class service, providing clients a better way to build.
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