May the Force Be with You

“Happy people make the world a better place”
Asa Kalama

How do you design, plan and construct a galaxy? That’s right, BIM.

At Autodesk University 2019, my team and I got to witness how BIM is influencing the construction of pure fantasy. The same software we use to improve the build experience for Homeowners and trade partners is being used to create a galaxy far, far away…

The immersive galaxy at one of the world’s greatest and largest theme parks was designed, coordinated and built using BIM—also known as Building Information Modeling (BIM). The construction required the integration of over 140 different disciplines from all around the world—concept artists, designers, facility architects, landscape architects, interior designers, ride engineers, etc. A small margin of error would result in an air conditioning duct running through an iconic area of the ship compromising the immersive experience the designers intended to create.

Over the course of the project, more than 600 digital models were created. All were integrated and encompassed design, fabrication and installation. Single source BIM, was used to detect challenges/clashes and streamline construction.

BIM increased the velocity of the project. Multiple disciplines all working in parallel together were able to deliver the attractions months ahead of the target finish date.

BIM technology helped the design and construction teams create a new galaxy where guests would be able to create, imagine and play. It’s now a place where parents can share experiences with their children, and all leave feeling that the force is with them.

Happy May the 4th!

Lindsay Prichard-Fox