Advancing Electrical Design in High-Rise Buildings with Revit 3D Modeling

International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 10 Issue: 11 | Nov 2023 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2023, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.226 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 860
Advancing Electrical Design in High-Rise Buildings with Revit 3D
Modeling
Mahima Mittal
Electrical, Engineer, Jacobs Engineering Group USA, Inc Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Abstract— In the construction sector, 2D software
has traditionally dominated the design of electrical
systems for multi-story buildings. Yet, the evolving
dynamics of architectural and engineering services
are prompting a shift towards 3D modeling tools,
with an emphasis on staying ahead in the
competitive landscape. Utilizing 3D design not only
streamlines the design process but also addresses
the limitations inherent in 2D drafting. This
innovative approach facilitates seamless design
alterations, bolsters communication across various
disciplines, minimizes drafting efforts, and
redefines the methodologies electrical engineers
employ for standard multi-story building designs.
This paper presents a pilot project centered on the
3D electrical design of a multi-story structure,
leveraging the capabilities of Revit software.
Traditionally associated with architecture, Revit's
application has been expanded to cater to intricate
engineering needs. Rather than just generating
conventional drawings, the software is geared
towards creating a holistic design, allowing for
detailed component extraction. This document aims
to highlight the transformative benefits, valuable
insights, and the broader industry implications of
adopting 3D tools for electrical design in multi-
story edifices.
Keywords—Three-Dimensional (3D), Two-
Dimensional (2D), Building Information Modeling,
Revit
EVOLUTION OF 2D DRAFTING
For decades, 2D drafting has been the cornerstone of
architectural and engineering design processes. Central
to this practice is Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
software, which revolutionized the way professionals
approached design by digitizing what was once a manual
and tedious process [1]. CAD software enabled designers
to create, modify, analyze, and optimize designs,
providing a platform that was both efficient and versatile.
However, when it comes to the electrical design of
buildings, relying solely on 2D CAD models presents
several challenges. Firstly, these models often require
manual calculations for electrical load estimations,
circuit designs, and other critical parameters. This not
only increases the time taken for design but also
introduces the potential for human error.
For consulting firms, these 2D models can become a
significant pain point. While they provide a visual
representation, they lack the depth and interactivity
needed for a comprehensive understanding of complex
electrical systems. Changes in design, no matter how
minute, necessitate manual updates across multiple
drawings, leading to inconsistencies and potential
oversights. Furthermore, collaborating with other
disciplines becomes cumbersome as there's no
integrated platform to view the interplay between
electrical systems and other building components.
In essence, while 2D drafting using CAD software
marked a significant advancement from traditional
methods, it is not without its limitations, especially in the
intricate realm of electrical design for multi-story
buildings.
In the dynamic realm of architectural and engineering
design, transitioning from 2D drafting to 3D modeling is
not just a trend—it's an imperative [2]. The selection of
an appropriate 3D modeling software is crucial, as it
underpins the creation of detailed, accurate, and
interactive representations of structures and systems [1].
With numerous software options available, including
industry giants like Autodesk and Bentley, professionals
are presented with a plethora of choices, each with its
distinct features and capabilities.
Autodesk, renowned for its flagship product AutoCAD,
has expanded its suite to include specialized 3D
modeling tools that cater to a wide range of design needs.
Their solutions are lauded for their user-friendliness,
extensive feature set, and robust support community. On
the other hand, Bentley Systems, with products like
MicroStation, offers powerful modeling capabilities,
especially for large-scale infrastructure projects, and is
recognized for its seamless integration capabilities and
comprehensive project management tools.
The ideal 3D modeling software should not only be
feature-rich but also promote collaboration among
multidisciplinary teams. Its adaptability to project-
specific needs, compatibility with other tools, scalability,
and the surrounding support ecosystem are vital
considerations.

In essence, the choice of a 3D modeling software is a
strategic decision with far-reaching implications on the
efficiency, accuracy, and overall success of a design
project.
BENEFITS OF MODELING IN 3D
While 2D drafting provided a foundational platform for
design representation, 3D modeling elevates this by
offering a multi-dimensional perspective, enhancing
both design precision and comprehension.
Modeling electrical design in 3D offers a plethora of
benefits. It provides a holistic view of the electrical
systems, allowing for intricate detailing and spatial
considerations [3]. This ensures optimal placement of
electrical components, efficient wiring routes, and
effective integration with other building systems.
Furthermore, 3D modeling facilitates real-time
simulation, enabling designers to anticipate and address
potential challenges, from interference issues to energy
efficiency considerations, long before the construction
phase.
Additionally, 3D models serve as a collaborative tool,
bridging the communication gap between electrical
engineers, architects, and other stakeholders. This
collaborative approach ensures that design
modifications are seamlessly integrated, reducing errors
and subsequent costs.
In the context of our pilot multi-story building project,
which will be elaborated upon in subsequent sections,
the adoption of 3D modeling for electrical design yielded
significant insights. Preliminary findings underscored
the efficiency gains, cost savings, and enhanced design
quality achieved through this approach [4].
In essence, 3D modeling in electrical design is not just a
technological advancement; it's a transformative
approach that redefines design methodologies,
collaboration, and project outcomes. The ensuing
sections will delve deeper into the tangible benefits
realized in the pilot multi-story building project and the
broader implications for the industry.
DOCUMENT CONTROL
Document control stands as a pivotal component in the
design and construction landscape. With the transition
from 2D drafting to intricate 3D modeling, there's an
exponential growth in the complexity and volume of
design data. This amplification accentuates the need for a
robust document control system to proficiently manage,
track, and safeguard this invaluable information.
Fig. 1. 3D Image of Pilot Building
In the 3D modeling sphere, document control extends
beyond just overseeing drawings. It involves managing
model versions, the associated metadata, design
simulations, and the plethora of interconnected files that
constitute the design ecosystem. Given the collaborative
essence of 3D modeling, where designers from MEP,
structural, acoustics, architectural, and controls
disciplines all operate within the same model file, the
potential for data conflicts and overwrites becomes
pronounced. This integrated approach inherently fosters
interdisciplinary collaboration, making it imperative to
have an efficient document control system in place. Such
a system ensures every modification is logged, every
version is archived, and access permissions are
judiciously allocated.
Key facets of document control in 3D modeling
encompass:
Version Control: With the design process witnessing
multiple iterations, tracking changes and maintaining a
clear record of model versions is paramount. This
ensures all stakeholders are aligned with the most recent
and approved version.
Access Control: Given the proprietary nature of design
data, controlling access is vital. Role-based permissions
ensure stakeholders have the right level of access,
preserving the design's integrity.
Audit Trails: A competent document control system
chronicles every action, from model creation to edits.
This audit trail offers transparency, accountability, and is
instrumental in conflict resolution.
Collaboration and Communication: The inherent
collaborative nature of 3D modeling, with professionals
from diverse disciplines working on a unified model,
necessitates seamless communication. Integrated tools
facilitate real-time feedback and discussions, optimizing
the design process.

Backup and Recovery: The sheer volume of data in 3D
modeling demands robust backup and recovery
solutions, ensuring data resilience against technical
issues or unforeseen challenges.
In the context of our pilot multi-story building project,
document control was instrumental in ensuring a
harmonized design approach, minimizing errors, and
enhancing collaboration. The ensuing sections will delve
deeper into the specific challenges encountered, the
strategies adopted, and the insights gleaned from
managing multifaceted design data for this endeavor.
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS: FROM SD TO CD WITH
3D MODELING
The construction process, traditionally segmented into
Schematic Design (SD), Design Development (DD), and
Construction Documents (CD) phases, has witnessed a
transformative shift with the integration of 3D modeling.
Each phase, with its distinct objectives and deliverables,
can greatly benefit from the depth and interactivity that
3D modeling offers over conventional 2D drafting.
Schematic Design (SD): This initial phase, focused on
establishing the overall scope, concept, and preliminary
design of the project, is where 3D modeling shines.
Instead of flat sketches, stakeholders can visualize the
project in three dimensions, allowing for a more
comprehensive understanding and facilitating early
feedback. In our pilot multi-story building project, the
use of 3D modeling during the SD phase enabled
stakeholders to quickly grasp the design intent, leading
to faster approvals and fewer revisions.
Design Development (DD): As the project progresses to
the DD phase, designs are refined, and details are fleshed
out. 3D modeling aids in this refinement by allowing
designers to delve deeper into the specifics of materials,
finishes, and systems. For our pilot project, the DD phase
saw fewer iterations, as potential conflicts—be it in MEP
layouts or structural elements—were identified and
resolved in the model itself, long before they could
escalate into costly issues.
Construction Documents (CD): The CD phase, where
detailed drawings and specifications are prepared for
actual construction, benefits immensely from 3D
modeling. Traditional 2D drafting often requires manual
updates across multiple sheets for any design change. In
contrast, a change in the 3D model automatically reflects
across all associated views and details. For our pilot
project, this not only reduced the drafting workload but
also minimized errors, ensuring that the construction
team received accurate and consistent documents.
Pilot Project Insights: The decision to employ 3D
modeling over traditional 2D drafting for our pilot multi-
story building project was pivotal. The visualization
capabilities of 3D modeling facilitated clearer
communication among all project stakeholders. Design
conflicts, often a significant pain point in 2D drafting,
were proactively identified, and resolved. This proactive
approach led to tangible cost and time savings, reducing
the need for on-site rework and modifications.
Furthermore, the integration of disciplines within a
single 3D model fostered interdisciplinary collaboration
[5], streamlining the design process and ensuring a
cohesive final product. The transition from 2D drafting
to 3D modeling, as evidenced by the pilot project, offers a
plethora of benefits across all phases of the construction
process. It not only enhances design quality and
efficiency but also paves the way for cost-effective and
streamlined construction.
DESIGN QUALITY
The quality of design is paramount in determining the
success of any construction project. While traditional 2D
drafting has served the industry well for decades, the
advent of 3D modeling has ushered in a new era of
design excellence. This section delves into how 3D
modeling enhances design quality, drawing insights from
our pilot multi-story building project.
Holistic Visualization: One of the most significant
advantages of 3D modeling is the ability to visualize a
design in its entirety, in a spatial context. This holistic
view allows designers, stakeholders, and clients to
understand the project from every angle, ensuring that
design intent is clearly communicated and understood.
Interdisciplinary Integration: With professionals from
MEP, structural, acoustics, architectural, and controls
disciplines working within a unified 3D model,
interdisciplinary collaboration is inherent. This
integrated approach ensures that all systems and
components are harmoniously designed, reducing the
chances of conflicts and overlaps that can compromise
design quality.
Precision and Detailing: 3D modeling allows for intricate
detailing, ensuring that every component, from
structural elements to electrical fixtures, is accurately
represented. This precision translates to fewer errors
during the construction phase and a final product that
aligns closely with the initial design vision.
Real-time Simulations: Modern 3D modeling tools offer
simulation capabilities, allowing designers to test
various design scenarios in real-time. Whether it's
assessing the energy efficiency of a building facade or
simulating the acoustics of a space, these simulations
ensure that designs are optimized for performance and
functionality.
Feedback and Iteration: The interactive nature of 3D
models facilitates quicker and more effective feedback

loops. Design changes can be visualized immediately,
allowing for rapid iterations and ensuring that the final
design is a culmination of collaborative inputs.
Pilot Project Insights: In our pilot multi-story building
project, the emphasis on 3D modeling significantly
elevated design quality. The ability to visualize and
iterate in three dimensions led to a design that was not
only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally
optimized. Potential issues, which might have been
overlooked in 2D drafts, were identified, and addressed
in the modeling phase, ensuring a smoother construction
process and a final product that met the highest
standards of design excellence.
In essence, 3D modeling is not just a technological tool;
it's a catalyst for design quality, fostering precision,
collaboration, and innovation at every stage of the design
process.
APPLICATIONS OF 3D MODELING IN ELECTRICAL
DESIGN
The integration of 3D modeling into the electrical design
process has opened a plethora of applications that
enhance both the design quality and efficiency. Drawing
from our pilot multi-story building project, this section
sheds light on the myriad ways in which 3D modeling,
particularly through tools like Revit, has transformed the
electrical design landscape.
Circuiting: With 3D modeling, electrical designers can
now visualize and design circuits in a spatial context.
This allows for a more intuitive understanding of circuit
paths, ensuring optimal routing and minimizing
potential interference with other building systems.
Layout of Light Fixtures: Designing the layout of light
fixtures becomes more interactive and precise. Designers
can assess the illumination levels in real-time, ensuring
that spaces are adequately lit and adhering to lighting
standards.
Voltage Drop Calculations: Advanced simulation tools
within 3D modeling software enable real-time
calculations of voltage drops across circuits. This ensures
that the designed electrical systems are efficient and
meet safety standards.
Panel Board Schedules: Creating panel board schedules
becomes streamlined. Any changes made in the design
are automatically reflected in the schedules, ensuring
consistency and reducing manual updating tasks.
Schedules and Quantities for Optimization: The ability to
automatically generate schedules and quantities aids in
material procurement and cost estimation. This feature
ensures that resources are optimized, reducing wastage
and ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Visualization of Conduits and Receptacles: The spatial
representation allows designers to show conduits,
receptacle layouts, and junction boxes in their actual
locations, ensuring that they are strategically placed and
easily accessible.
Designing Electrical Rooms: Using proper Revit families,
electrical rooms can be designed with precision,
ensuring that every component, from switchgear to
transformers, fits perfectly and is easily accessible for
maintenance.
Grounding and Conduit Plans: 3D modeling facilitates the
detailed design of grounding systems and conduit plans,
ensuring safety and compliance with electrical codes.
AC and DC Panel Layouts: The design of both AC and DC
panels becomes more organized and clearer, ensuring
that components are laid out efficiently and are easily
identifiable.
Wiring Diagrams: Creating wiring diagrams in a 3D
context provides a clearer understanding of connections,
making it easier for installation teams during the
construction phase.
Permitting of Electrical Plans: One of the significant
advantages of 3D modeling is the ease of permitting.
Detailed 3D models, complete with all electrical
components and systems, provide permitting authorities
with a comprehensive view, speeding up the approval
process and ensuring compliance with local codes.
Pilot Project Insights: For our pilot multi-story building
project, the shift to 3D modeling proved invaluable for
the electrical design team. From the initial circuiting to
the final permitting, every step was streamlined, efficient,
and of the highest quality. The ability to visualize,
simulate, and iterate in real-time ensured that the final
design was not only compliant with standards but also
optimized for performance and cost.
In conclusion, the applications of 3D modeling in
electrical design are vast and transformative, offering a
blend of precision, efficiency, and innovation that
traditional 2D drafting methods cannot match.
GAPS IN CURRENT 3D MODELING FOR
ELECTRICAL DESIGN
While 3D modeling has undeniably revolutionized the
electrical design process, offering unparalleled
visualization and precision, it is not without its
limitations. As the industry continues to evolve, certain
gaps have become evident in the current modeling tools
and methodologies. Drawing from our experiences in the
pilot multi-story building project and industry feedback,
this section highlights some of the prominent gaps in the
current 3D modeling landscape for electrical design.

Absence of Smart Single Line Diagrams (SLDs): One of
the significant gaps in current 3D modeling tools is the
lack of smart SLDs. While these tools can represent
electrical systems visually, they often fall short in
dynamically linking components in SLDs. This means
that changes in the model don't automatically reflect in
the SLD, leading to potential inconsistencies.
No Integrated Short Circuit Calculations: Modern
electrical systems, especially in multi-story buildings,
require intricate short circuit calculations to ensure
safety and system integrity. Current 3D modeling tools
do not inherently support these calculations,
necessitating external software or manual computations,
which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.
Lack of Transient Studies: Transient studies, crucial for
understanding sudden surges or disturbances in
electrical systems, are not natively supported by most
3D modeling tools. This gap means that designers have
to rely on specialized software, complicating the design
process and potentially leading to integration challenges.
Interoperability Issues: While 3D modeling tools are
advanced, they sometimes face interoperability issues
with other software used in electrical design. This can
lead to data loss or require manual data transfer, both of
which can be detrimental to the design's accuracy and
efficiency.
Limited Support for Advanced Simulations: Beyond basic
simulations, advanced studies like harmonic analysis,
load flow studies, or arc flash analysis are not natively
supported in many 3D modeling platforms. These studies
are crucial for the design of complex electrical systems,
and the lack of integrated support can be a significant
drawback.
INDUSTRY IMPACT AND CONCLUSIONS
The integration of 3D modeling into the electrical design
process signifies a pivotal shift in the construction
industry, offering enhanced design quality, efficiency,
and broader strategic implications. As the adoption of 3D
modeling becomes more widespread, tangible cost
savings emerge from streamlined workflows, reduced
rework, and optimized material procurement.
Concurrently, the move towards standardization ensures
consistent design outputs, reducing discrepancies across
projects. The rise of 3D modeling has also catalyzed
Fig. 2 Rendering of Multistorey Building
Innovation, with software developers introducing
advanced tools to cater to evolving industry needs. Our
multi-story building project underscored these benefits,
while also highlighting areas for further innovation. The
utilization of Revit and Navisworks for a 550,000 square
feet multi-story building project brings about significant
financial advantages. With a compressed design timeline
of 21 months, the project gains an impressive 4 months,
curbing time-related expenses. Automated clash
detection slashes rework costs from $150,000 to
$50,000, while accurate cost estimation eliminates the
potential overrun of $100,000 associated with
traditional methods. Streamlining the construction
timeline through efficient coordination results in a
reduced cost of $50,000 compared to the extended
timeline's expense of $200,000. Overall, the projected
monetary savings amount to a substantial $350,000,
underlining the tangible benefits of adopting modern
tools. These advancements not only optimize the
construction process but also enhance financial
efficiency, showcasing the pivotal role of innovative
software in project management. In essence, the
transition to 3D modeling in electrical design represents
a profound industry transformation, with a promising
horizon characterized by enhanced design quality,
efficiency, and broader strategic advantages.
Our pilot multi-story building project served as a
microcosm of the broader industry transformation. The
benefits of 3D modeling were evident throughout the
project lifecycle, from the initial design phase to the final
construction. Reduced design iterations, precise material
procurement, and minimized on-site rework were some
of the tangible advantages realized.
However, the project also brought to light certain gaps in
current 3D modeling tools, emphasizing the need for
continuous innovation in this domain. The insights from
this project underscore the importance of industry-wide
collaboration, training, and knowledge sharing to
maximize the benefits of 3D modeling.
In essence, the transition to 3D modeling in electrical
design signifies a profound shift in the industry's
approach. As tools mature and the industry adapts, the

horizon looks promising, with enhanced design quality,
efficiency, and broader strategic advantages in sight.
REFERENCES
1 Autodesk, Inc.:
https://www.autodesk.com/solutions/cad-software.
2 A. Konyagin and L. Shilova “Development of the
software application for the building information
models in augmented reality mode visualization,” in
IOP Conf. Ser.: Mater. Sci. Eng., 2019, pp. 698-705
3 M. Cobb, N. Justin, A. El-Shahat and R. J. Haddad,
"Higher education Building efficient electrical
design," SoutheastCon 2016, Norfolk, VA, USA, 2016,
pp. 1-7, doi: 10.1109/SECON.2016.7506719
4 Applications of Building Information Modeling in
Electrical Systems Design. Source: Journal of
Engineering Science & Technology Review. 2017, Vol.
10 Issue 6, p119-128. 10p.
5 Luo, Ping, and Jun Tang. “Research on Collaborative
Design Practice of REVIT Based on BIM.” Applied
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https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.71
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AUTHORS PROFILE
Author Mahima Mittal, a distinguished EIT engineer in
the state of California, USA boasts an impressive
academic and professional background. Holding a
master’s degree in electrical engineering from the
California State University, Northridge (CSUN), Mahima’s
expertise is evident in her contributions to the field.
Beyond her academic achievements, Mahima has actively
contributed to the academic community by serving as a
technical reviewer for various esteemed journals. This
role showcases her keen eye for detail and her
commitment to upholding the highest standards of
research and publication in the field.
Throughout her illustrious career, Mahima has been
recognized for her research work, publications, and
other notable achievements, further solidifying her
reputation as a leader in the electrical engineering
community.

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