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Planning Onsite Excavation with Tobe Builder: A Comprehensive Guide

Plan detailed excavation staging and site spoil flows

Ken Panitz avatar
Written by Ken Panitz
Updated over a year ago

Excavation is a fundamental step in many construction projects, ranging from digging trenches for utility lines to creating foundations for buildings. Efficient excavation planning is crucial to ensure the safety and accuracy of these operations. Tobe Builder, a versatile construction planning tool, empowers construction professionals to plan and visualize excavation processes effectively. In this guide, we'll explore how Tobe Builder can be utilized for different types of excavations and provide step-by-step insights.

Trench Excavations with Tobe Builder

Tobe Builder offers a streamlined approach to plan and execute detailed trench excavations. Whether you're digging trenches for pipelines, cables, or foundation footings, Tobe Builder's trench automation tool simplifies the process. Here's how to do it:

1. Select Trench Tool: Start by selecting the "Trench" tool within Tobe Builder.

2. Draw Trench Path: Use the line tool to draw the path of the trench. You can precisely define the trench's shape and dimensions.

3. Set Depth and Bench Options: Specify the desired trench depth, angles, or benching requirements. Tobe Builder provides flexibility in configuring these parameters.

4. Choose Excavation Mode: Decide whether you want to excavate the trench in one pass or in layers, depending on your project requirements.

5. Run the Automation: Initiate the trench automation, and Tobe Builder will automatically generate an IFC model of the temporary excavation geometry, complete with excavated quantities.

This automation not only simplifies trench planning but also provides valuable data on the volume of earth to be moved during excavation.

Large-Scale Excavations with the Pit Tool

When dealing with large-scale excavations beneath structures or expansive areas, Tobe Builder's "Pit" automation becomes a valuable asset. The Pit tool allows you to create extensive excavations efficiently:

1. Select Pit Tool: from the automation menu in Tobe Builder.

2. Define Excavation Area: Outline the area where excavation is required. This can be beneath a bridge foundation or across a wide space, such as preparing a large building pad.

3. Execute the Pit Tool: Run the Pit tool, and Tobe Builder will generate a comprehensive excavation plan, including the excavation depth and scope.

The Pit tool is ideal for scenarios where you need to excavate a significant portion of land, ensuring precise planning and resource allocation.

Building Embankments with Tobe Builder

In some cases, construction projects require the creation of embankments or raised areas within a depressed site. Tobe Builder's "Embankment" automation tool simplifies this process:

1. Access Embankment Tool: Select the "Embankment" tool within Tobe Builder.

2. Define Target Height: Specify the desired height for the embankment.

3. Apply the Automation: Run the embankment automation, and Tobe Builder will fill the depressed area to the defined height.

The embankment automation in Tobe Builder is a time-saving solution for projects that involve leveling or raising specific areas within the construction site.

Advanced Cut-Fill Calculations

For projects that require precise cut-fill calculations and detailed earthwork analysis, Tobe Builder seamlessly integrates with specialized software tools like Deswick, Trimble Business Center, or Autodesk's Civil 3D. These dedicated software solutions are well-equipped to handle complex cut-fill operations, generating accurate data for earthwork planning.

Once you've performed the cut-fill calculations in your preferred software, you can import the results into Tobe Builder. This integration allows you to visualize the excavation and embankment operations within the context of your construction project.

Conclusion

Tobe Builder revolutionizes excavation planning by offering a range of automation tools tailored to different project requirements. From trench excavations to large-scale site preparations, Tobe Builder simplifies the planning process, enhances accuracy, and provides valuable insights into earthwork quantities.

For advanced cut-fill calculations, Tobe Builder seamlessly integrates with industry-standard software, ensuring a comprehensive approach to excavation planning in construction projects. Incorporate Tobe Builder into your workflow to optimize excavation processes, improve project efficiency, and streamline construction operations.

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