Worldwide medical facilities
The National Children's Hospital is a worldwide medical facility for children with incurable illnesses in Ireland.
The project included a detailed steel frame design of an elliptical roof reminiscent of Dublin's most famous Georgian Square and the Royal Hospital of Kilmenaim (Ireland's oldest hospital). The seven-story hospital, with a total of 6,150 rooms and parking for 1,000 cars, is Ireland's largest and most significant capital investment project in healthcare.
Significant reduction in man-hours
The project presented many challenges. For example, the roof rafters were curved to fit the horizontal purlins, forming a multifaceted framework, and the geometry of the joints was complex. Designing a complex concrete core was also challenging. Therefore, on-site survey data was imported for accurate model input. Although all steel framing was galvanized and all beams and columns were drained and perforated, Tekla Structures' component capabilities dramatically reduced the man-hours required for 3D BIM data entry.
Using Trimble Connect, a great collaboration tool, we are now able to use the latest and most accurate model information imported from other design teams' models as well. We also invite other team members involved in the work to the work environment and use it to direct design changes by highlighting areas of interference. This makes it easier to keep track of the actions needed and those that have already been taken on a daily basis.
