The theme park development sector has been undergoing changes year by year. Nowadays, theme parks are not only becoming more entertaining but also more immersive. Modern theme parks do not represent simple amusement parks. These are much more complex projects that include architecture, engineering, MEP design, landscape, water features, retailing, transportation, and many other aspects.

In order to develop such complex projects, it is necessary to use some sort of collaboration technique that would provide efficient communication between all parties involved in the process. And BIM for Theme Parks appears to be such a collaboration technique.

With the help of BIM, it is possible to collaborate on the same project throughout its entire lifecycle, from conceptual design to facility management.

Understanding Theme Park BIM

BIM stands for digital technologies that allow the creation of intelligent 3D models that contain not only geometrical but also non-geometrical information of project elements.

In the case of theme parks, BIM unites different specialized disciplines in one digital environment and includes such specializations as:

• Architecture

• Structural engineering

• MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems)

• Landscape architecture

• Utility infrastructure

• Transport infrastructure

• Infrastructure for support structures of amusement park rides

• Hospitality and retail services

• Public infrastructure

• Parking infrastructure

This approach differs from traditional drawing work because all people work in one updated model.

Overcoming the Obstacles Encountered in the Process of Building Theme Parks

One of the most complicated building projects is the construction of theme parks.

Some of the structures found within theme parks include:

• Roller coaster tracks

• Water rides

• Theaters

• Hotels

• Food courts

• Shopping areas

• Underground utilities

• Substations

• HVAC systems

• Walkways

• Landscaping

• Water features

• Parking areas

All these structures require input from different fields of engineering.

In the absence of BIM, it is normal that there are design clashes that are not discovered until the completion of the project, resulting in delays and additional costs.

However, using BIM, all engineering disciplines can work together in a digital format even before the construction process begins.

BIM Coordination

One other great benefit of the application of BIM technology in Theme Parks is that it facilitates coordination among different disciplines.

Architects, Structural Engineers, MEP designers, Landscape Architects, and Infrastructure Designers can work on the model together.

This will facilitate the project team in:

• Detection of clashes

• Coordination of utility lines

• Verification of clearances for rides

• Building layout improvement

• Accessibility improvement

• Avoiding design discrepancies

BIM technology facilitates increased efficiency in the implementation of the project through the elimination of rework.

Clash Detection Facilitates Solving Problems During the Construction Process

There are many mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural elements in Theme Parks.

Mechanical ducts may clash with beams.

Electrical lines may clash with plumbing systems.

Ride foundations may clash with utility pipes.

In case of poor coordination, the construction process will become expensive.

Through BIM software such as Autodesk Navisworks, the team can detect these clashes before the construction process.

Some of the benefits of clash detection include:

• Construction process is not delayed

• Cost of materials is saved

• Improved contractor efficiency

• Elimination of rework

• Reduction in project costs

It is highly beneficial for large entertainment facilities.

Effective Construction Planning with 4D BIM

Construction planning and scheduling for theme parks require complex activities due to the existence of many contractors working at the same time across a vast area.

Construction planning and scheduling data are included in BIM models through 4D BIM technology.

Through 4D BIM, the project team can gain an understanding of the whole process as well as the interaction between various work packages.

Advantages of 4D BIM include:

• Improved sequencing

• Coordination among contractors

• Improved construction planning

• Reduced scheduling conflicts

• Faster project delivery

The management is provided with an option to gain insight into the construction process even before its actual implementation.

Cost Estimation Through 5D BIM

Budget control is vital for the project because the sums of money invested in these projects can reach hundreds of millions of dollars.

Budget integration with BIM models is achieved by using 5D BIM technology.

Since all the elements in the model contain information about dimensions, it becomes more precise to perform quantity take-offs.

Project owners will be able to:

• Estimate costs earlier

• Control budget changes

• Avoid quantity mistakes

• Improve procurement plans

• Invest effectively

Construction Safety Advancements Through BIM

Theme park construction involves the use of heavy machinery, steel erection, excavation work, utility system installation, and infrastructure development.

The use of BIM helps increase safety levels at construction sites by creating visualizations of potential risks prior to construction.

Preparations for safety include:

• Equipment transportation

• Crane placement

• Temporary constructions

• Emergency access routes

• Worker movement

• Dangerous operations planning

Virtual planning leads to increased safety at construction sites.

Promoting Sustainable Development of Theme Parks

Sustainability is one of the factors considered during current entertainment destination development.

BIM allows sustainable design of buildings since it offers opportunities to conduct analysis of:

• Structure orientation

• Sunlight exposure

• Energy consumption

• Water management

• HVAC system efficiency

• Material selection

• Carbon emissions

• Waste management

All these analyses help in designing sustainable facilities that are cheaper to operate.

Effective Collaboration of International Teams

Consulting engineers and contractors from various countries are often required for the development of large theme parks.

The use of cloud-based BIM allows collaboration of all participants within the same virtual environment.

It means that there will be improved:

• Communication

• Documentation management

• Version control

• Approvals

• Design reviews

• Decision-making

Improving Visitor Experience Through Good Design

Theme parks depend heavily on visitor experience.

Through BIM technology, designers will be able to enhance visitor flow before the start of the construction process.

Among the considerations are the following:

• Queue design

• Crowd flow

• Emergency exit routes

• Accessibility

• Parking area connections

• Location of retail stores

• Restaurant locations

• Signage

All these aspects will improve the visitor experience.

Facility Management After the Construction Phase

BIM technology continues to play a significant role even after the construction phase.

Some of the information that can be found in each BIM model includes:

• Equipment specifications

• Manufacturer information

• Maintenance information

• Warranty information

• Replacement information

• Asset location

Future-Proofing Theme Parks Through Digital Twin Technology

Due to the development of technology, many entertainment companies have started using Digital Twin technology.

Digital Twin technology is an extension of BIM technology that includes live data and smart building technology.

It allows operators to monitor:

• Ride efficiency

• Energy usage

• Occupancy management

• Environmental assessment

• Equipment maintenance

• Predictive maintenance planning

BIM along with Digital Twin technology enables informed decision-making.

Reasons Why We Have Chosen to Adopt VR4BIM for Theme Parks BIM Services

Theme park design needs both proficiency in modeling and great expertise in interdisciplinary coordination, constructability, project management, and BIM standards around the world.

VR4BIM offers comprehensive BIM services that are intended specifically for complicated entertainment projects. Whatever it is, architectural, structural, MEP modeling, BIM coordination, clash detection, 4D scheduling, or construction documentation, VR4BIM has everything you may need.

Using the latest technologies and project management approaches, VR4BIM helps you create excellent entertainment facilities.

Conclusion

Theme park building is one of the most complicated forms of construction existing in the modern world. The effective realization of such projects is assured by the collaboration of architects, engineers, constructors, and owners who aim to build effective, entertaining, and safe environments.

BIM for Theme Parks provides the instruments that facilitate digitalization and help accomplish all these objectives owing to improved design coordination, clash detection, construction management, cost optimization, sustainability, and facility management.

Consequently, in the course of digitalization of the industry, companies using BIM technology will be able to construct more efficient and unique theme parks.