Architecture - MEP coordination in later phases (structural openings)

Coordinate architecture and MEP in later phases and carry openings and recesses bindingly in the structural model.

Starting point

• Late MEP routes and equipment placements create openings that are often missing in the structural model or only exist in 2D drawings.
• Missing or late openings in the structural model cause clashes, variations, and construction delay.

Goal & benefit

• Align architecture, MEP, and structural models during detailed design on clashes and penetrations.
• Model MEP requests as provisions for void and document approved openings bindingly in the structure.
• Carry openings in non-load-bearing architectural components and masonry in the architecture model.

Process

1. Provide architecture and MEP models with near-execution geometry for coordination.
2. Request structural openings and recesses as provisions for void in the MEP model; model openings in architectural hosts in the architecture model.
3. Model approved openings in the structural model and check them in the federated model.

Outcome

• Aligned ARCH - MEP coordination with approved openings in the structural model and a clear role split per discipline model.

Deliverables

• Architecture, MEP, and structural models with IfcProject, IfcSite, IfcBuilding, and IfcBuildingStorey
• Provisions for void as IfcBuildingElementProxy in the MEP model (PredefinedType=PROVISIONFORVOID; IFC2x3 ObjectType=PROVISIONFORVOID)
• Approved openings and recesses as IfcOpeningElement in the structural model (PredefinedType OPENING or RECESS)
• Openings in architectural components as IfcOpeningElement in the architecture model (PredefinedType OPENING or RECESS)
• Aligned Name and Reference between MEP provision for void and structural opening
• Location and dimensions of the opening for structural approval