MODELING ENGINEERING SYSTEMS ON POINT CLOUD
Tags: bim, pointcloud, modelinplace, revit
Published: 2024-04-11 13:01:37


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Previously in our articles, we described what a Point Cloud is, and [how to work with a Point Cloud in Revit.](https://bim-prove.com/post/how-the-work-on-the-point-cloud-in-revit-is-going-on) In this article, we shall talk about how to model MEP systems on Point Cloud in Revit.

We won’t talk about modeling tools, as you already know them. Specialists of [BIMPROVE](https://bim-prove.com/) company have a lot of experience and will share it with you and tell you about the features of Point Cloud modeling. 

Let’s start with the fact that MEP systems have a big and important meaning in any facility. They will cover a wide spectrum of directions, like electricity, pipes, air ducts, and others. And each has its details, and nuances, and requires special attention and experience.

But, unlike modeling on drawings, the modeling on Point Cloud could be smoother. In most situations, sagging and lopsided pipes and other elements will lose their characteristics over time, creating difficulties in modeling on Point Cloud.

**Types of engineering systems**
 
Before we move forward to the general logic of engineering system modeling on Point Cloud, let us briefly talk about each system.

Here are the types of engineering systems: heating, gas supply, electricity, sewage system, water supply, ventilation, and air conditioning. Systems may be connected into a group with a similar modeling principle. 

**Elements with a round cross-section**

This includes a heating system, gas supply, electricity, sewage system, and water supply. It is important to correctly choose a system type, for its purpose determination. The difference between them lies in the fitting and armatures, as each system has its requirements and, accordingly, rotation angles, radius, joints, types of purpose, etc. Often, if fittings are not standard, we recommend creating a new Family, or, if it was discussed with the client, we do a “Model-in-Place”, keeping in mind the Family converter. There is a perfect [Revit add-in, developed by our BIMPROVE team](https://apps.autodesk.com/RVT/en/Detail/Index?id=7674884213406283426&appLang=en&os=Win64), for cases like this, so you will be able to convert a model in the same context into the Family in just a few clicks.

It is necessary to separately highlight the electrical system since it has an additional tray of cables, that are different in their modeling principles and are a bit similar to modeling systems with a square cross-section.
 
**Elements with a square, and rectangular cross-section**
 
This includes ventilation and air conditioning systems. Similar to systems with a round cross-section, there is a diversity of different fitting types. It is not uncommon to create new Families. Therefore, be prepared for such a scenario.

Separately, we want to draw your attention to the equipment. Every system has its own. They are both standard and custom ones. We won’t pay attention to the standard ones, since most of you know them well; let’s just say that while modeling on Point Cloud, it is often necessary to use a “Model-in-Place” tool.

Special attention should be paid to the complex equipment. Motors, machines, pumps, and other more complex equipment, need to be modeled using “Model-in-Place” and then transitioned into Families. The importance is in the diverse complexity of every equipment, and the need to understand that its modeling will take a lot of time. You need to be ready for this since it’s pretty rare when even the same facility has a lot of the same equipment type. Even if that [level of detail is LOD100](https://bim-prove.com/post/what-is-lod-level-of-detail-in-bim), it still requires the modeler’s time and attention.

**General modeling logic MEP system**

Smoothly coming to a general modeling logic, the most important thing, that needs our attention, is to discuss requirements and tasks with the customer. What is the project’s LOD, what are we modeling, the admissibility of intersections, etc.? It is important to clarify all these questions so that it will be easier for modelers and then the customer does not have additional questions.

Once you get a general understanding of what you need to model and how - we proceed directly to modeling. 

1. At the very beginning, we choose a starting point for ourselves. It’s better if it’s any sort of equipment, you can make by Model in Place, and start diverting pipes/air ducts/conduits from it.

2. Once you’ve started routed pipes/air ducts/conduits, it is necessary to create them till the moment when pipes/air ducts/conduits disappear on a Cloud, get to the deadlock, or end up in different equipment.

3. It is necessary to immediately install all the fittings along the route of a given pipe/air duct/conduit, since you can miss or forget it later. We try to select/set the geometric characteristic of the existing Families armature, and if there are no more suitable ones, then you can make it with the “Model-in-Place” help, and afterward MUST transit it into the Family (a family is made in a specific category, like Pipe Accessory, Duct Accessory, etc.

4. If it’s possible to identify the system that this pipe/air duct/conduit belongs to, and if there are requirements from a customer, then you need to choose a system.
  
5. If an air duct/pipe comes to any object, for example to the Air Terminal or Sprinkler, then you need to put it right away, so you won’t forget or lose it later.

6. It is necessary to use standard fitting Families when modeling insulated pipes.

7. Pipes and air ducts are usually modeled on an outer insulation size, except when a customer provides drawings, that have pipes and air duct dimensions without insulation. 

8. Pipes and power cables smaller than 50 mm (2 inches) in diameter are not modeled, except in cases when they are combined into routes of 3 or more pipes. 

9. During the fire suppression system modeling, it’s necessary to model all the pipes and sprinklers with no exceptions, even if their diameter is less than 50 mm (2 inches). 

10. If a pipe/air duct/conduit sags or is not the same as a Cloud for other reasons, it’s necessary to correct its geometry using available methods. In cases when it is not possible, you divide it into parts using a Split tool and customize it to the Cloud. With this tool, a system remains complete and does not break off, which is very good when the customer has a task like this.

Conclusion
Modeling engineering systems on Point Cloud presents unique challenges, particularly concerning elements with round, square, and rectangular cross-sections. Despite the complexities, understanding the diverse nature of each equipment type is crucial, even at LOD100. It is important to pay attention to details, to make sure that all fittings are installed along the route to avoid oversight. 

We hope that our tips will help you in working on engineering systems using Point Clouds, and you will be able to improve the quality and speed of your work.

You can always apply to our [Scan to BIM Services](https://bim-prove.com/service/scan-to-bim) to get precise parametric As-built BIM Models and 2D CAD Models showcasing details like pipes, walls, slabs, roof plans, facades, and landscapes within and around the building.

We deliver models ranging from LOD 100 to 350, encompassing Architectural, Structural, Site, and MEPF Elements. We also include Clash Detection for projects involving Renovation, Refurbishment, Retrofit, or Reconstruction.

Our experience includes developing parametric 3D BIM and 2D CAD models. We work with all disciplines: Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Site.

**Book a consultation on our website to revolutionize your project and stay ahead of the construction competition.**