How empty conduits, routes and shafts are truly becoming digital
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has long been established in building construction planning – but in civil engineering and network infrastructures, end-to-end digitalisation often remains a challenge. Especially in the case of cable routes, empty conduit networks and shaft systems, there is often a gap between digital planning and actual execution. BIM-to-Field closes this gap and makes infrastructure completely digital, from the first planning stage to the finished documentation.
Step 1: Intelligent 3D modelling of the network infrastructure
The process begins with the precise modelling of all components in the BIM system. Empty conduits, cable routes, shafts, sleeves and connection points are recorded in three dimensions and assigned all relevant attributes: material, diameter, laying depth, manufacturer, capacity. Unlike 2D plans, this creates intelligent objects that are more than just geometry – they contain all the information relevant to execution, operation and maintenance.
Step 2: Collision detection and coordination
Before the first sod is turned, all trades are digitally superimposed. BIM software automatically detects collisions between planned cable routes and existing supply lines, foundations or tree roots. Instead of costly surprises on the construction site, conflicts are resolved on screen. Coordination with gas, water and telecommunications networks is transparent and traceable – all parties involved work on the same digital model.
Step 3: Mobile data transfer to the construction site
The finished BIM model leaves the planning table and moves to the site manager’s tablet. Mobile BIM viewers allow access to all planning information directly on site. Construction workers can see on the display exactly where empty conduits run, at what depth shafts are to be installed and what connection details need to be taken into account. Even last-minute changes to plans are immediately visible to everyone – without any loss of time due to sending plans and paper plans.
Step 4: Surveying and digital stakeout
Modern total stations and GNSS receivers communicate directly with the BIM model. Routes are staked out with centimetre precision and shaft positions are marked exactly. The survey data flows back into the model and documents the actual execution. Deviations between target and actual values are immediately apparent and can be corrected during the construction phase.
Step 5: As-built documentation in real time
Instead of retrospective inventory recording, documentation is carried out in parallel with execution. Installation depths, material changes, additional sleeves or route deviations are noted directly in the digital model – georeferenced and documented with photos. The result is a digital twin of the real infrastructure that accurately reflects what is actually in the ground.
Step 6: Handover to operator and facility management
Upon project completion, the operator receives not a bundle of paper plans, but a complete, attributed BIM model. This serves as the basis for maintenance planning, troubleshooting and future expansions. Through GIS integration, the data is transferred to existing pipeline registers and remains available and up-to-date for decades.
Advantages at a glance
- End-to-end digitalisation from initial planning to operational documentation
- Error reduction through automatic collision checking and precise surveying
- Time savings through mobile plan availability and real-time updates
- Transparency for all project participants through a shared data model
- Future-proofing through complete digital inventory documentation
3XPERTS and B3YOND-IT: From BIM planning to digital inventory documentation
3XPERTS combines civil engineering expertise with digital innovation. Together with B3YOND-IT, we implement BIM-to-field workflows for network infrastructure, from 3D modelling and mobile construction site apps to automated transfer to GIS systems. We ensure that your cable and empty conduit networks are not only planned, but truly digital – consistent, precise and future-proof.
Would you like to consistently digitise your network infrastructure?
Contact us at info@3xperts.com or via our digital contact form and discover how we can successfully shape your projects and your leadership role together.