BIM
3D parametric models for visualization and design coordination
Clash Detection
Finds geometric conflicts in 3D models—pipes through beams
AI Plan Checking
Reviews issued PDFs for code issues, spec mismatches, cross-sheet errors
Three Different Tools, Three Different Jobs
BIM (Building Information Modeling)
3D parametric models with rich data—the single source of truth (in theory) for design. Great for visualization, data extraction, and spatial coordination during design.
Clash Detection (Navisworks, Solibri, ACC)
Finds geometric conflicts in 3D models—pipes through beams, ducts through walls. Produces clash reports that coordination teams work through. Often generates thousands of results to sort.
AI Plan Checking (InspectMind)
Reviews issued construction documents (PDFs)—the actual drawings that get permitted, bid, and built. Catches code issues, spec mismatches, and cross-sheet errors that 3D models can't see.
Key Insight
What BIM and Clash Detection Can't Catch
Model vs Document Drift
- What's in the model ≠ what's in the issued PDFs
- Dimensions, notes, details added in CAD layer
- Last-minute changes skip the model update
Code and Spec Compliance
- Clash detection finds geometry, not code violations
- ADA clearances, egress widths aren't spatial clashes
- Spec vs drawing mismatches are invisible
Cross-Sheet Consistency
- Door schedule vs floor plan mismatches
- Detail callouts to non-existent details
- Finish schedules vs room diagrams conflicts
The 2D PDF Reality
- Many projects are still primarily 2D workflows
- BIM adoption is uneven across trades
- PDF remains the universal document format
The Clash Detection Noise Problem
50 pipe-duct clashes might all stem from one reroute decision. Clash tools show symptoms, not problems.
How AI Helps Cut Through the Noise
Where AI Plan Checking Fits in BIM Workflows
BIM-Heavy High-Rise
2D-Heavy Mid-Size Commercial
Public Sector Permitting
Side-by-Side Comparison
When to Use What
BIM + Clash Detection
Design Phase
- Early design coordination
- Spatial conflict resolution
- Model-based estimation
- Visualization and VR walkthroughs
- Complex MEP routing decisions
AI Plan Checking
Document Phase
- Pre-permit document QA/QC
- Pre-bid document review (as GC)
- Code compliance validation
- Spec vs drawing verification
- Cross-sheet consistency checks
Best Practice
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