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Similar to the United States, Japan’s construction industry has been facing challenges with labor shortages, slow adoption of technologies and a need for new infrastructure. Fukui Computer, a CAD software vendor established in 1979, hopes its recent partnership with Bentley Systems will help push the infrastructure field into an age of digital transformation.
Back in 2016, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism released i-Construction (ICT) standards in an effort to address the present and future lack of workers while increasing productivity 20 percent by 2025. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Construction Information Modeling/Management (CIM), and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) are at the heart of i-Construction.
Fukui Computer’s collaboration with Bentley Systems aims to push the possibility of ICTs.
“The strategic partnership with Bentley Systems will allow us to introduce cutting-edge digital technology to the ICT field in the construction industry in Japan,” said Tadashi Sugita, Fukui Computer president. “As a software company being trusted by the construction companies who support the infrastructure in local communities, we will strive to contribute to society by providing useful products and valuable support services.”
In 2012, Fukui Computer entered the world of civil engineering surveying software business. The company plans to beef up its CIMPHONY Plus cloud service with Bentley Systems’ iTwin Platform.
According to Fukui Computer, CIMPHONY Plus is a cloud service that performs on-site progress confirmation, analysis and risk assessment based on 3D point cloud current data and 3D model planning data. Users can remotely access information in real-time. Features of the software include visualization of the job site using 3D maps and the ability to share photo data and see the site from multiple angles thanks to cross-sectional shape calculation.
Bentley Systems’ technologies will take CIMPHONY Plus into the world of 3D/4D digital twins, simulation and visualization.
“Collaborating with Fukui Computer benefits all parties,” said Carsten Gerke, said senior vice president of strategic channels. “End users will benefit from cutting-edge, world-class digital technology and trusted local expertise. Bentley will address the demanding Japanese infrastructure market and i-Construction regulations through the market leader in Japan while Fukui Computer will provide the most innovative digital twin solutions to dramatically improve the construction industry in Japan.”
A scalable, open platform, iTwin features an array of design tools that turns engineering data into real-time digital twins. Along with the ability to track changes and visualize the job site from start to finish, this platform incorporates data from drones and sensors. This collaborative platform enables better decision-making at every stage and enhances collaboration among key players.
This partnership will also assist Fukui Computer in developing its TREND ROAD Designer to enhance the future design and construction of roadways. This 3D application will use Bentley Systems’ OpenRoads Designer, which makes it easier for users to develop cost-effective designs by identifying potential risks before construction starts. OpenRoads lets you import GIS data to make 3D models faster and with precision.