Want to know what Tandem Users are talking about? Check out the Q&A from our October 2024 Webinar

[jessica_smith]

Thanks to everyone who joined us for the October 2024 webinar. This super informative webinar about the scan-to-bim-to-twin process highlighted some fantastic workflows.

If you missed the live presentation, watch the recording here, and we’ll see you at the next one!

API

1. How does Tandem integrate with reality capture solutions like Matterport, ArcGIS Reality, or OpenSpace?
   No, not directly today. Autodesk is working on streamlining these capabilities, and Tandem will leverage that in the future.
2. Is the data coming from the Tandem Connect workflow also visible from the embedded viewer in a custom webapp?
   To learn more about this, visit aps.autodesk.com.
3. Can you talk about an FM/Owners IT concern regarding cybersecurity of using connect? SSO and encryption etc. by connecting from a building to the Autodesk cloud?
   The cloud data is secure, and any other connections should be coordinated with the client's policies on data privacy.  Additionally, customers can reference Autodesk Trust Center (https://www.autodesk.com/trust/security)

Asset Data

1. How do you identify and assign the correct materials?
   We attach materials like copper for piping directly in the Revit model. We set up specific parameters in Revit, and these are transferred to Tandem when the model is uploaded. Parameters can be manipulated further once in Tandem.
2. Who insures scan data for errors and omissions? Architects cannot perform surveying and must engage insured consultants to provide this data. Insurance must be obtained from approved suppliers, as required by association standards.
   If [P2S] is responsible for the scanning, [P2S] takes full ownership of the data’s integrity. If the client provides the scan, [P2S] doesn’t assume responsibility for its accuracy.
3. Does Tandem have the ability to navigate both between a virtual model and a live capture? If so, are live nodes/tags on equipment visible in both?
   Not currently. You can create a hyperlink and link your live capture to an Asset or Space.
4. Does the BIM naming convention during the delivery phase impact the file arrangements for Tandem?
   Tandem ingests and reads the information, so naming conventions can streamline file management. However, it's not a strict requirement.
5. Does the generated BIM file from scanning have COBie data?
   This is part of the collected information that can be added into the model as metadata and then exported to COBie.  The scanning process cannot identify the specific make and model of the equipment.
6. Does Tandem support 360 imagery? I suppose that goes down the Open Space scenario.
   This is feedback we have received and are considering. Product development is prioritized based on customer feedback.

Modeling Practices

1. What technique do you use to produce the Revit models? For example, do you use families for all components?
   [P2S] uses a combination of both. They manually model piping and duct systems by linking laser scans into Revit. They also use families for equipment. While they’ve tried software like EdgeWise to convert point clouds to 3D models, limitations mean they have mostly stuck to manual modeling.
2. Don't you think that it is better to use the design BIM model as an as-built instead of scanning for new projects by revising the BIM design plan for as-built condition?
   We realize that not every building out there has a BIM model, and that is the case for a variety of reasons. So, this would have to be determined by the project team on what works best and would produce the most meaningful results based on what is required at handover.
3. Is there a method to turn the point cloud into a mesh besides manually modeling everything?
   Just this year Autodesk invested in PointFuse technology, which converts point cloud to 3D mesh models (you can then use that mesh model to model in Revit). At a future date, the technology will be integrated into the Autodesk portfolio.
4. If BIM model is revised in later years, how you will track and update the file?
   Approved versions of the model are often managed in Docs, and Tandem will recognize when a new version is available and can be updated.
5. What standard did you apply for point cloud density when laser scanning?
   It varies by project. For more detailed information, I can follow up after the webinar.
6. I wanted to ask if you can take an existing 2D plan set on paper and turning it into a 3D drawing?
   This is not functionality that is currently supported in Tandem.
7. I am working on a metro project and they provided me Revit model I need to work further step on Autodesk Tandem, how can I start?
   Once you have your Revit model, you can sign up for Tandem Free, https://inTandem.autodesk.com/sign-up-free/ and check out the resources for getting started, https://help.autodesk.com/view/Tandem/ENU/?guid=Tandem-getting-started
8. Can Tandem track the changes in BIM file if we received updated file after few months?
   Yes.

Tandem Connect

1. Can Tandem Connect and API be used to integrate data from structural health monitoring sensors (i.e., tiltmeters, crack meters, displacements, automated scanning, and total stations systems)?
   Tandem Connect supports various sensor protocols, including REST APIs, MQTT, and OPC UA. Some sensors can also export CSV files. It depends on the sensor's capabilities and the supported protocols.
2. Would Tandem work with an electrical substation? What sort of security protocols are in place to protect against threats to infrastructure?
   Tandem/Tandem Connect (Beta) today is read-only at the device level. We most likely wouldn't connect directly to the substations themselves but perhaps receive data sent outbound via SCADA/MQTT and nothing inbound, using historical CSV files or connecting to a process historian.
3. How does JSON play a role in Autodesk Tandem?
   JSON is the standard structure for passing messages between plugins and integrations. Data from CSV or databases is often transformed into JSON for integration with Tandem.

Other

1. Can we achieve a full digital twin using Tandem, because most of published digital twins seems to be semi digital twin?
   Autodesk Tandem is Autodesk's solution for Digital Twins. Any feedback on how we can make the digital twin experience better and more meaningful, visit our published roadmap.
2. What is the maximum file size Tandem can manage smooth navigation?
   There is not an upper limit that we set. However, performance is usually determined by number of elements and surfaces and your graphics card. Tandem is made however to aggregate all the models that go into the overall design of a facility, so we certainly expect many large models aggregated into one Tandem facility.
3. Could you please explain the specific Tandem application advantage over Autodesk's Revit?
   Tandem allows Owner-Operators as well as non-BIM users to navigate their operational data in the cloud and in the context of geometry--Assets & Spaces. It is meant to be complimentary to Revit and foster collaboration between model authors (Designers & Builders) and Owner-Operators.
4. How much file size maximum Tandem can manage by smooth navigation?
   There’s no strict limit, but performance depends on factors like the number of elements, surfaces, and your graphics card. Tandem can aggregate many models into one view. We’ve optimized model loading for large-scale projects.
5. If I want to build my own house's DT and I use some sensors, how can I connect them to through the third parties (mentioned) to the model via Tandem, what are those 3rd parties?
   We've seen people use home assist + Tandem Connect to send live data from home devices to Tandem.  We've also used disruptive technologies sensors that can go direct to Tandem.  We've also seen REST API from Ecobee's too.  Lots of options, just need to understand what protocols each device is capable of and go from there.
6. Which UI is better with library content and handling the complexity? Dynamo or Tandem?
   This would be a matter of opinion.
   For me, the author of this forum who works on Tandem and has no bias at all, Tandem is. 🙂 
7. Have you used Tandem support mesh models for display? Facades analysis application?
   This is feedback we have received and are considering. Product development is prioritized based on customer feedback.
8. Is Tandem looking at any AI or machine learning development for the classification of objects within the point cloud?
   There is no active AI project for point cloud classification. However, we are automating data classification within Tandem. AI might play a role in future developments.