Sketchup with 4D construction simulation for delivery the project efficiently & timely

3rd July 2010

By Global Assocaites SketchUp Team

4D (3D + scheduling) is an application that allows you to create and see the construction schedule of your project -- all at the same time.

Synchro introduces 4D construction simulation

"Synchro, makers of 4D (3D + time) construction simulation software, has developed a plug-in for Google SketchUp. The tool allows you to create 3D drawings in SketchUp and import them into the Synchro timeline. The result is a 4D simulation of a construction project as it progresses through time. 3D and 4D modeling software is an important addition to any architects or project managers IT toolbox. It helps them clearly communicate the construction process to clients and stakeholders, while providing visual insight into possible delays and miscalculations. Synchro recently demonstrated their plug-in at the CMAA conference in San Francisco. Software Advice, an online resource that helps construction companies find construction project management software, was there to capture the action. Their video of the plug-in can be seen at 4D Project Scheduling from Synchro & Google."

Utility of Plug in bringing geometry from SketchUp into Synchro

Synchro has created a plug in for SketchUp and has full support for the SKP file format. The plug in allows you to bring geometry from SketchUp into Synchro with a unique ID attached to each component. This gives users the ability to make changes in their SketchUp models and port those changes back to Synchro while iterating on designs.

4D construction simulation for facing challenge

Construction companies require flexible solutions that can help them to avoid collision in time and space during the realization of a project. They need easy-to-use software to analyze all phases of the future project at the planning stage to anticipate any conflicts that may occur and to elaborate on the optimal project scenarios. 4D construction simulation is just for facing challenge.

4D construction simulation with SketchUp is efficient and cost effective

Project managers face a unique challenge in construction planning because they have to calculate the most efficient and cost effective way to build a design, while clearly communicating the construction process to clients and other stakeholders.

Recently, project managers have adopted 3D modeling and 4D scheduling programs to help in this critical phase of construction project. 4D modeling combines 3D drawings with a construction schedule and displays the sequence of construction over time.

Syncro has developed a plugin for SketchUp with 4D system

Syncro has developed a plugin for Google SketchUp along with their full line of 4D systems for various sizes and types of construction management teams. Synchro has been developing innovative scheduling systems since their start in construction software 2001. Syncro’s software integrates models from popular CAD programs like Google SketchUp, as well as Revit and Auto CAD, and then synchronizes them with a project timeline on a spreadsheet. The result is both a visual and spatial representation of construction as it occurs through time.

The innovative new 4D plug-in for SketchUp

This innovative new 4D plug-in for SketchUp was introduced at the 2008 CMAA conference in San Francisco and Software Advice, an online resource that helps construction companies find construction management software, was there to capture the importance of Syncro’s new 4D tools.

SketchUp with 4D construction simulation for timely project delivery

Tom Dengenis, Synchro's CEO said, "Google SketchUp is a powerful modeling tool with compelling aesthetic values, which is easy to use. It was logical for Synchro to dedicate a new product, which builds upon 3D Google SketchUp modeling to add 4D construction simulation with the dimension of time through scheduling and project management to yield real, 4D BIM, construction simulation for project delivery."

Conclusion:

In a real world scenario, 3D and 4D construction modeling software has definite advantages. Construction projects are complex, and modeling software helps project managers anticipate and plan for delays and miscalculations. Now 3D construction modelers can use SketchUp to track their projects in 4D.