ToBe Builder can visualize crane movements to check for clashes, and to create videos to show work crews. The approximate size and reach of a crane can be tested, but it is not a lift study tool and the lift planning process using other software or manual processes is not replaced by TBB.

ToBe Builder has models of many cranes in the resources. If a specific crane is required, it can be modelled. Please contact EIC.
​
In the example below, the clearance between the crane boom and structure throughout the lift can be easily verified, a task that is time consuming manually.
​

Efficient crane lift planning is vital in the construction industry, ensuring the safety of both personnel and equipment. Tobe Builder, a powerful construction planning and visualization tool, plays a pivotal role in enhancing crane lift planning by offering advanced visualization capabilities. While it's important to note that Tobe Builder does not replace dedicated lift planning software, it excels in visualizing crane movements, checking for clashes, and creating informative videos for work crews. In this article, we will explore how Tobe Builder can be a game-changer for crane lift planning.

Crane lift planning involves meticulous coordination to ensure that heavy loads are safely lifted, moved, and positioned during construction activities. Key considerations in crane lift planning include:

Clearance Verification: Ensuring that there is sufficient clearance between the crane, its load, and surrounding structures throughout the lift operation.

Load Capacity: Calculating the crane's load capacity to prevent overloading and potential accidents.

Critical Lift Points: Identifying the precise points where the crane's hook or rigging equipment will connect with the load.

Safety Measures: Implementing safety measures, including signal communication, to prevent accidents during crane operations.

Tobe Builder, with its visualization capabilities, simplifies several aspects of crane lift planning.

One of the standout features of Tobe Builder is its ability to visualize crane movements within the construction environment. Here's how it can enhance crane lift planning:

1. Checking for Clashes: Tobe Builder allows you to simulate crane movements and identify potential clashes with structures, equipment, or other objects in the vicinity. This clash detection helps prevent accidents and project delays.

2. Clearance Verification: Ensuring sufficient clearance between the crane boom, load

an easy and efficient way to verify clearances throughout the lift operation. This task, which can be time-consuming when done manually, becomes a straightforward process within Tobe Builder.

3. Creating Comprehensive Videos: Tobe Builder enables you to create informative videos that illustrate crane movements and lift sequences. These videos can be invaluable for communicating lift plans to work crews, project stakeholders, and safety teams.

Now, let's walk through the steps to create a crane lift sequence using Tobe Builder:

1. Create Tasks: Start by creating a task for each lift operation within your project plan. These tasks will serve as the foundation for your crane lift sequences.

2. Add the Crane: Place the appropriate crane model into the Tobe Builder scene. If your project requires a specific crane that isn't available in the resources, you can work with the Tobe Builder team to create a custom model.

3. Mount the Load: Use the resource mounting tool within Tobe Builder's keyframe workflow to attach the lifting sling or lifting beam to the crane's hook. Additionally, create a prefab of the part of the structure to be lifted. If your project is in the early stages and lacks a detailed BIM, you can use the "Standard Crate" resource as a temporary placeholder.

4. Keyframe Crane Movements: With the load securely mounted to the slings or beam, and the beam attached to the crane's hook on the first keyframe, you can proceed to keyframe the subsequent crane movements. Tobe Builder simplifies complex crane movements, including load positioning and orientation, by allowing you to control everything through keyframes.

5. Sequence and Share: Once you've animated the crane's movements and ensured that the load follows the desired trajectory, you can use Tobe Builder's sequence menu to create a video. This video can be shared with your project team for review, analysis, and communication of the lift plan.

By following these steps, you can efficiently create complex crane lift sequences within Tobe Builder, complete with load simulations and precise movements.

Tobe Builder is a valuable tool for enhancing crane lift planning in construction projects. Its advanced visualization capabilities, clash detection, clearance verification, and video creation features empower project teams to plan and communicate crane lift operations effectively.

While Tobe Builder does not replace dedicated lift planning software, it significantly streamlines the visualization aspect of crane lift planning, contributing to safer and more efficient construction practices.

Incorporate Tobe Builder into your construction projects to benefit from improved crane lift planning, enhanced safety, and better communication with your project teams.