These days, a growing number of architects, engineers, and contractors (AEC) are using Building Information Modeling or, more commonly known by its acronym, BIM. Although this technology has existed for a decade, a lot of interest has been generated recently around BIM. While global trends are making AEC projects more complex, advances in technology are helping industry professionals work more efficiently and effectively. In this article, I wish to introduce you to Building Information Modeling and describing how powerful this tool is in the 21st century.
Building Information Modeling
BIM is a working method that integrates all processes and information flow collaboratively and integrates these variables to manage building projects (architecture, engineering, construction). Professionals can therefore work more efficiently to design, build and operate buildings and their related infrastructure.
BIM is often confused with 3D modeling software, but it is actually much more powerful than that. BIM and similar technologies offer more than just 3D (width, height and depth); they often include 4D (time), 5D (cost), 6D (operation), 7D (sustainability) and even 8D (security) dimensions. The more robust BIM capability is often defined as “nD” modeling, as an almost infinite number of dimensions can be added to the building model.
However, the real power of BIM lies in information. All information collected – from conception to completion – is not only stored, but also, it is actionable. Data can be used to improve project accuracy, show the building’s design, improve stakeholder knowledge transfer, reduce change orders, address coordination issues, and provide information on existing buildings for subsequent renovation projects.
The data in a model defines the design elements and establishes behavior and relationships between model components. So, when an element in a model is modified, every view is updated with the new version appearing in section, elevation, and sheet views.
In an interview by Autodesk many project owners agreed on the following benefits obtained through the use of BIM:
72% Greater cost predictability
85% Improved schedule
85% Fewer errors
92% Optimized design
98% Better understanding
All the information about each component of a building are gathered in one place, making it possible for anyone to access it for any purpose. Take for example, the integration of different aspects of design to achieve more effectiveness. This helps to reduce the risk of errors or discrepancies and minimizes costs.
BIM data can also be used to illustrate the entire life cycle of the building from start and design to demolition and reuse of materials. Spaces, systems, products, and sequences can be displayed on a relative scale to each other and, in turn, relative to the entire project. And by signaling conflict detection, BIM prevents errors in the different stages of development/construction.
Through cloud-connected technologies, BIM is gaining even more power. Driven by global trends, businesses want to win more work, deliver projects more efficiently, and design better buildings.
Let’s deep dive into a real use case. At e-shelter security, we use BIM to create a digital twin (floor plans, infrastructural elements, etc.) of our customer’s building or office, within which we define the spaces (rooms, corridors, rooms), and insert the assets (desks, sensors, actors).
Leveraging BIM allows us to perform several functions that we provide such as:
and much more.
Due to its clear benefits, it is certain that BIM is here to stay. Without a doubt, the future of construction will be even more collaborative and digital. As BIM becomes more sophisticated, the 4D, 5D and even 6D BIM will begin to play a greater role in the process. In addition, the whole world is trying to reduce waste in construction. Much of this is attributed to supply chain inefficiencies, bottlenecks and rework. Working collaboratively in a BIM environment, all of this becomes much less likely, laying the groundwork for a better tomorrow.
