Integrated Design
Designing in 3D provides a number of clear benefits including improved visualisation and understanding of the layout and production of accurate construction material take-offs. However, if the design can truly integrate all disciplines, then real benefits in time and cost can be realised
A properly integrated design incorporates all aspects of the physical plant within a single coordinated 3D environment. Rather than passing information from department to department or between companies, the basic spatial arrangements such as concrete, steelwork, pipework and cable tray etc are created as space allocations in a single model. The separate elements can then be detailed by the relevant specialists within the model, allowing on going clash checking.
This approach allows for design activities to be undertaken in parallel which can significantly reduce overall design programmes. It also enhances the spatial management of the design, eliminates tracing errors and therefore reduces the possibilities of site re-work.
As a properly integrated multi-discipline design tool, we believe that 3D design can reduce the total cost not only of the overall design, but also of the construction. The development of our 3D design capability has proved itself time and again, with models not only being used for design but also as aids for project justification, for operator training, for construction sequencing and most recently interactively linked to equipment O&Ms.
Disciplines Involved
At GHA Livigunn we routinely combine the civil, structural, mechanical, instrument and electrical disciplines to work in a single coordinated model.
Software Utilised
In our modern offices in Cheadle and Frodsham, we have multiple networked CAD workstations, running an extensive Autoplant™ 3D full plant design facility.
Arrangement drawings and isometrics are produced from the model in AUTOCAD™ format.
At regular intervals, the model can be issued in NWD format which can be viewed using freeware Navisworks Freedom Viewer. We regularly use this facility to enable design reviews by Clients before any conventional drawings are produced.
Laser Scanning 
Given a choice, we would advocate the use of 3D design for most if not all applications. One factor which may influence this decision is for modifications to existing plant. It is perfectly possible to re-model sections of existing plant from record drawings or field survey, however where the accuracy or availability of the record drawings is questionable or for very complex plant, particularly with difficult access, then the use of laser scanning can provide a solution.
A series of laser scans can be linked to provide a complex 3D map of an existing facility. The map can then be tagged to highlight all interfaces/tie ins and then used as a backdrop for the new design.