Clash Detection

2D PDF Analysis

Find coordination conflicts across architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines automatically from 2D PDF drawings. No BIM model required.

How It Works

  1. 1

    Upload

    Drop your PDF drawing set into Articulate. We handle sets of any size.

  2. 2

    AI Analysis

    Our AI reads every sheet, understanding what each discipline shows and where elements are located.

  3. 3

    Cross-Reference

    The system compares information across sheets to find where elements conflict or contradict.

  4. 4

    Report

    You get a prioritized list of clashes with exact sheet references and severity ratings.

Types of Clashes Detected

MEP vs Structural

  • Ductwork routing through beams
  • Pipe penetrations through columns
  • Conduit conflicts with structural elements
  • Equipment locations vs structural clearances

MEP vs MEP

  • HVAC vs plumbing routing conflicts
  • Electrical vs mechanical clearances
  • Diffuser vs lighting conflicts in RCP
  • Fire sprinkler vs other ceiling elements

Architectural vs MEP

  • Ceiling heights vs MEP clearances
  • Wall locations vs equipment clearances
  • Door swings into equipment
  • Casework vs electrical outlets

Dimensional Conflicts

  • Dimension strings that do not add up
  • Plan vs elevation mismatches
  • Grid line inconsistencies
  • Scale conflicts between details

Why 2D Clash Detection Matters

Most projects do not have complete BIM models from all trades. Even when BIM exists, the 2D construction documents are the legal contract documents that get built. If they have conflicts, those conflicts show up in the field.

Articulate analyzes the documents you actually build from: PDF drawings. We catch coordination issues that exist in the 2D documents, whether or not a 3D model exists.

Related

See Clash Detection in Action

Upload your drawings and see what coordination conflicts our AI catches.