AI Drawing Review for Mechanical Contractors

Detect ductwork routing conflicts, verify equipment clearances, and coordinate with other trades automatically.

The Mechanical Contractor's Challenge

Ductwork Routing Conflicts

Supply and return ductwork frequently clashes with structural beams, piping mains, and electrical conduit runs in tight ceiling plenums

Equipment Clearance Issues

AHUs, VAV boxes, and rooftop units need service access that drawings often fail to verify against adjacent structures

Multi-Trade Coordination

Diffusers, grilles, and registers must align with reflected ceiling plans while avoiding sprinkler heads and light fixtures

How Articulate Helps

Duct Routing Conflict Detection

Automatically identify where ductwork intersects structural members, piping, or electrical systems. Articulate flags conflicts before they become costly field rework.

Equipment Clearance Verification

Verify that AHUs, chillers, boilers, and VAV boxes have the manufacturer-required service and maintenance clearances shown on drawings.

Diffuser vs Structure Coordination

Cross-reference supply and return diffuser locations against reflected ceiling plans, structural grids, and lighting layouts to catch placement conflicts.

Insulation Space Checking

Confirm that ductwork insulation thickness is accounted for in ceiling plenum space calculations and does not cause new clearance violations.

Control Sequence Verification

Review sequences of operation against mechanical drawings to ensure control points, damper locations, and sensor placements are consistent with design intent.

Common Issues We Catch for Mechanical Contractors

Routing & Clearances

  • Ductwork routing through structural beams and columns
  • Insufficient equipment access and service clearances
  • Return air pathway obstructions and dead zones
  • VAV box sizing mismatches with design airflow

Coordination & Controls

  • Diffuser placement conflicts with sprinklers and lights
  • Insulation thickness exceeding available plenum space
  • Missing or mislocated control dampers and sensors
  • Exhaust fan duct routing conflicts at roof penetrations

ROI for Mechanical Contractors

$40K–$250K

Average savings per project from early clash detection

45+

Mechanical conflicts identified per drawing set

70%

Faster ductwork review compared to manual coordination

Related Resources

Stop Finding Conflicts in the Field

See how Articulate catches ductwork routing conflicts and equipment clearance issues before your crews are on site.