Navisworks in BIM Clash Detection

Among the multifold benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is its ability to detect and resolve conflicts between different building systems before construction. It is a process known as clash detection which is crucial in preventing errors, delays, and reworks during construction. It allows project teams to identify and resolve issues such as pipes intersecting with structural elements or ductwork conflicting with electrical systems in the virtual environment, saving time and resources in the field.

One of the powerful BIM software that helps professionals with efficient clash detection is Autodesk Navisworks. It enables users to combine 3D models from various disciplines, perform advanced clash detection analyses, and generate comprehensive reports to streamline conflict resolution. Lately, Navisworks has become an essential tool for professionals to learn and use to excel in their careers. 

Read the blog to explore how Navisworks enhances the clash detection process in BIM workflows, improves project coordination, and reduces construction risks. With that, it also highlights its features, numerous benefits, and best practices. 

What is Clash Detection in BIM?

Clash detection in BIM is a process that identifies and resolves potential conflicts within a 3D model before construction begins, preventing costly reworks and delays. It involves analysing the spatial relationships between various elements to ensure they don't interfere with each other. Historically, this process involved manually reviewing technical drawings. However, with the introduction of BIM technology, clash detection has become significantly more efficient and precise.

Detecting clashes in BIM designs has become a standard practice in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry. By leveraging its power, architects and civil engineers can develop virtual 3D models of proposed buildings, overlaying various disciplines like structural, architectural, electrical, and plumbing systems. This enables comprehensive clash detection, enabling the team to collaboratively identify, flag, analyse, and resolve conflicts. 

1. Types of Clashes

1. Hard Clashes: These occur when more than one building element occupies the same space or overlaps other building elements. For example, a duct running through a beam.

2. Soft Clashes: These involve spatial or clearance issues where elements don't physically collide but are too close to one another, violating the required buffer space. For example, insufficient clearance around HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) equipment for maintenance access.

3. Workflow Clashes: These happen when scheduling or sequencing issues arise, such as when different teams' tasks overlap, causing potential delays or workflow disruptions.

What is Autodesk Navisworks?

Navisworks is a powerful project review software that helps professionals in the architecture and construction industry improve their collaboration and data management. It lets modellers from all disciplines, stakeholders, and clients review the design quality and fix mistakes, if any, before entering the construction phase. Formerly known as "Jetstream," this software by Autodesk allows users to review, annotate, animate, and even render models to improve the work quality. Although it can be used separately, the software is most effective when used with other BIM/CAD applications, such as Revit and AutoCAD.

1. Features of Navisworks

• Effortless navigation within complex 3D models with customisable viewpoints
• Provides tools for quantification, analysis, and data measurements
• Compatibility to work with a wide variety of file formats
• Real-time construction simulation to update all participants on potential on-site issues
• Export capability to combine all project disciplines into a single file
• Advanced rendering using both in-house and online engines
• Accurate estimation of material quantities, building areas, and various other components
• Animation creation to visualise the construction process
• Early-stage clash detection between elements and disciplines, saving time and costs
• Ability to append and merge multiple 3D models
• Real-time collaboration with access to various departments and participants

2. Different Navisworks File Types

Navisworks offers powerful features tailored to various project needs and is available in three distinct versions. Each version includes features such as viewing, clash detection, project management, scheduling, and simulation. Access to specialised features may require an additional fee. Below is an overview of Navisworks' three main versions:

1. Navisworks Freedom: A free viewer for NWD and DWF files, allowing all project stakeholders to view and explore the integrated model without editing capabilities. It is an ideal starting point for those entering the domain with basic viewing needs.

2. Navisworks Simulate: This balanced version provides advanced project review, visualisation, 4D simulation, and quantification tools. It costs less than the complete version but lacks more advanced and necessary features, such as Navisworks clash detection.

3. Navisworks Manage: Includes all features of Navisworks Simulate, with enhanced capabilities for comprehensive clash detection and coordination. This version may cost more, but it offers the most extensive features, which makes it easier to work on complex projects.

Benefits of BIM Clash Detection in Navisworks

Navisworks enables teams to identify and resolve conflicts in a virtual environment. It provides a comprehensive project view and facilitates better coordination and collaboration. The following are some benefits of Navisworks for BIM clash detection:

1. Improves Design Quality

In BIM, clash detection is essential for improving the accuracy and quality of the construction process. Tools like Navisworks' clash detection provide detailed insights into potential conflicts, enabling precise and effective resolution. This systematic approach ensures that the final structure meets the highest standards and aligns closely with the original design intent by thoroughly identifying and addressing any issues.

2. Resolves Risks and Improves Productivity

Clash detection reduces the risk of on-site incidents and safety hazards by identifying potential issues early. This proactive approach not only improves job site safety but also boosts overall productivity. By having a clear understanding of potential clashes, project managers can optimise scheduling, material procurement, and installation processes, leading to reduced waste and increased efficiency.

3. Saves Time and Cost

BIM clash detection has made a significant impact on cost and time management in construction projects. By identifying and resolving conflicts before construction begins, project teams can avoid expensive rework, material waste, and labour inefficiencies. This eliminates last-minute changes and delays, ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget.

4. Enhances Planning and Project Coordination

Clash detection in BIM modelling greatly impacts coordination among architects, engineers, construction workers, and other stakeholders. By providing a comprehensive digital model accessible to all teams, necessary changes can be made simultaneously. Early identification and resolution of potential errors minimise the risk of on-site issues, ensuring efficient progress during the construction phase.

5. Optimises Communication

Effective communication and decision-making are crucial during the design phase. BIM and clash detection enable a collaborative environment by clearly visualising the structure and identifying potential issues. This transparency enables all stakeholders to communicate effectively, resolve problems promptly, and make informed decisions. Consequently, misunderstandings are minimised, and everyone remains aligned with the common project goals.

6. Streamlines Communication

BIM clash detection significantly boosts collaboration and coordination among the various disciplines involved in a construction project. By identifying clashes early, stakeholders from different domains can collaborate to resolve conflicts. This teamwork promotes improved communication, mutual understanding, and seamless coordination, ultimately leading to more cohesive and successful project delivery.

Also Check out: Top 5 Navisworks Courses to Learn as Architects and Engineers in India

How to Run Clash Detection in Navisworks?

Running clash detection in Navisworks involves several steps to ensure accurate identification and resolution of conflicts in your 3D model. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do clash detection in Navisworks:

1. Import Models

Open Navisworks and import the 3D models you want to check for clashes. Navisworks supports a variety of file formats, so ensure all relevant models are included.

2. Set Up Clash Detection

Click on the “Home” tab and pick the “Clash Detective” tool. In the Clash Detective dialogue box, click on the “Add Test” button to create a new clash test.

3. Define Test Parameters

Name your clash test for easy identification. Choose individual elements or sets to test for clashes. You can choose from predefined sets or create custom sets based on your needs.

4. Run the Clash Test

Select the “Run Test” button to begin the clash detection process. Navisworks will analyse the models and identify any clashes between the selected elements.

5. Review Clash Results

Go to the "Results" tab to see the list of detected clashes. Click on each clash to zoom in and visually inspect the conflict within the 3D model.

6. Classify and Assign Clashes

Classify each clash as “Approved,” “Resolved,” or “Reviewed” based on your project’s workflow. Assign clashes to specific team members or disciplines for resolution.

7. Generate Clash Reports

Choose the “Report” tab to generate a clash report. Customise the report format and content as needed, then export it in your preferred format (e.g., PDF, HTML, XML).

8. Collaborate and Resolve

Share the clash report with relevant stakeholders to facilitate collaborative resolution. Update the models based on feedback and re-run the clash detection to ensure conflicts are resolved.

How to Create a Clash Report in Navisworks?

Let us now understand how to create a Navisworks clash detection report:

1. Run a Clash Test

• Open your Navisworks project
• Go to the "Clash Detective" tab
• Set up your clash test by selecting the elements you want to check
• Select the "Run Test" option to perform the clash detection

2. Open the Clash Detective Tab

• Go to the "Clash Detective" tab in the ribbon

 3. Select Clashes for the Report

• Go to the "Results" tab in the Clash Detective window

• Select which clashes you want to include in your report

• You can select individual clashes or use filters to select groups of clashes

4. Access the Report Function

• Select the "Report" button in the Clash Detective ribbon

• This will lead you to the "Clash Report" dialogue box

5. Choose Report Format

• In the "Clash Report" dialogue, select your preferred formats such as HTML, XML or TXT

6. Select Report Content

Choose all the information you wish to include in your report:

• General information (project name, date, etc.)

• Clash properties (ID, status, distance, etc.)

• Images of clashes

• Comments and assignments

• You can customise the level of detail for each section

7. Select Report Location

• Choose where you want to save the report on your computer or network

8. Generate and Review

• Click "Create Report" to generate the clash report

• Once generated, open and review the report to ensure all necessary information is included

Also Check out: From Beginner to Expert: How BIM Civil Courses Can Advance Your Career

Navisworks Plugins for Clash Detection

Several plug-ins enhance Navisworks' capabilities, making it an even more powerful tool. Here are some of the most frequently used Navisworks plug-ins:

1. iConstruct

Enhances BIM workflow with advanced model conditioning, data management, and collaboration tools. It includes features for clash detection, reporting, and custom export options.

2. BIM 360 Issues 

Integrates BIM 360 with Navisworks for better issue management, allowing users to create and track issues directly within the Navisworks environment.

3. Dynamo for Navisworks

Adds Computational Design capabilities, enabling users to automate repetitive tasks and create custom workflows through visual programming.

4. Clash Detective

Extends Navisworks' built-in clash detection tools, providing advanced options for clash management, reporting, and resolution.

5. Tekla BIMsight

Facilitates collaboration between Navisworks and Tekla models, improving coordination and clash detection for structures and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems.

Best Practices for Clash Detection in Navisworks

• Comprehensive Training: Provide thorough training to the team on the functionalities of BIM clash detection tools to maximise their potential.
• Structured Data Management: Adopt a systematic approach to data management by filtering, categorising, and prioritising information to prevent data overload.
• Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Stay informed about the latest developments in the AEC industry and advancements in BIM tools to enhance project efficiency and effectiveness.

Navisworks Clash Detection Tips

1. Organise Models Before Clash Detection: Ensure that your models are well-organised and clean before running clash detection. Proper naming conventions and categorisation make it easier to identify and manage clashes.

2. Use Selection Sets and Search Sets: Create selection sets and search sets to group elements logically. This helps in targeting specific areas for clash detection and reduces the complexity of the results.

3. Customise Clash Tolerance: Adjust the clash tolerance settings to suit the project's requirements. Setting appropriate tolerances can help filter out minor clashes that may not be significant.

4. Assign Clashes for Resolution: Assign clashes to specific team members or disciplines for resolution. Clear assignment of responsibility ensures that clashes are addressed promptly.

5. Visualise Clashes in 3D: Use the 3D visualisation capabilities of Navisworks to view and understand clashes in the entire model context. This helps in assessing the impact of clashes and developing effective resolutions.

Way Forward

BIM clash detection has become a precursor of modern construction, enabling project teams to identify and resolve design conflicts before construction commences. By leveraging advanced tools like Navisworks and BIM 360, construction professionals can streamline the clash detection process, resulting in significant time savings, cost reductions, and enhanced project quality. Make the most of these innovative solutions and other cutting-edge tools to achieve exceptional project outcomes.

Novatr offers comprehensive courses - BIM Professional Course for Civil Engineers and BIM Professional Course for Architects where professionals can master clash detection and related software under the guidance of industry experts. Additionally, they can also apply their BIM skills in a real-world, RIBA-structured capstone project and benefit from placement assistance. You can also consider enrolling in the course to upskill and become a BIM professional.

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