Today, most engineers use 3D analysis tools to design structures. They then create 2D design drawings for the steel detailer. For Dowco, the first step in the detailing process is to create a 3D model from those drawings. Pre-detailing eliminates this double-handling by bringing the detailer into the process at the design stage.

Dowco imports the engineer’s analysis model into the 3D steel detailing software, Tekla Structures. We then work directly with the engineer to resolve any design issues, before connecting the model and outputting the shop drawings. Working closely with the designer at this stage dramatically reduces requests for information later in the project.

In many cases, the detail drawings and material reports are available at the bid stage, which minimizes risk for the fabricator and allows them to order material and start work as soon as the contract is awarded.

Dowco has successfully collaborated with engineering and architectural companies throughout the world to complete more than forty pre-detailing projects of varying architectural complexity and size. Notable projects include the Panama: Bridge of LifeMuseum of Biodiversity, designed by Frank Gehry. This project illustrates just how effectively pre-detailing streamlines the detailing process, to saving time and money.