BIM is a process! It is not just a 3D model and not a specific software. BIM is not only a technology but a workflow that makes interoperability easier!
This intelligent technology is implemented and useful for the whole AEC industry (Architecture, Engineering, Construction).
While “working in a BIM environment,” all parties that are collaborating are creating a mutually accessible online space known as a “common data environment” (CDE). This way, everyone involved before, during, and after the project is finished has access to the single source of truth. And all the information is available for every part of the process. That information is called the “information model.”
A model in our industry can mean a physical architectural model or a 3D model on a computer. Neither of these is a BIM model.
The acronym BIM, as we mentioned, is a process and a way of working and not an object or a physical entity. Otherwise would be a verb!
The CDE, where everyone that needs the information about the project can easily access it, can contain graphical and non-graphical data. The non-graphical data can include specifications, schedules, performance requirements, programs, cost plans, and drawings. These drawings are created in 3D by specific team members in private files, then put together in one 3D model to check if they correspond, and only after that shared with the whole team. In the CDE, the non-graphical data is then linked to the 3D graphical model.
When this 3D representation of all the data is explored and clicked on, it shows specific information about every model’s detail. For example, if you click on a light, it will give you information on the manufacturer, lead-time, cost, performance level, and when it needs to be replaced. This whole thing is known as the “data set of the information model.” And it all represents the BIM model.
The graphical parts hen not linked or supported by data in the CDE are called just 3D models.
– Understanding the customer’s needs from the ability to focus on accurate information about the project;
– Agreeing where all the data is going to be stored and how it will be managed right from the start;
– Project information well structured in one common area, so they are found 25% faster;
– Profits increasing because of the ability to do more work, more efficiently, to a higher standard, and reduce risk;
– Finishing the design before the start and not having the issue of conducting as-built data;
– Reducing facility management costs because of an up-to-date review of the performance.
– Smart digital model or intelligent design;
This term is related to the virtual 3D model.
All the beginners in BIM promptly notice the two primary benefits when creating a 3D model in BIM: the parametric capabilities of all the geometries (or objects) and the data hosted in those objects.
– Model data;
This is the information hosted in the BIM model. It can be used for various purposes in building management like scheduling, calculating costing, and energy consumption.
– Clash detection;
This term refers to a conflict that occurs between geometries within one or more models, in most cases between different disciplines like structural and architectural. With BIM, all of these clashes can be noticed and resolved before the construction starts.
– BIM level & BIM dimensions;
The BIM levels represent the maturity levels or degrees of collaboration between disciplines. These levels define the Level of Detail (LOD) that a BIM model will be developed in.
The BIM dimensions determine how the virtual BIM model will be developed through the lifecycle.
Currently, BIM has 4 levels and 7 dimensions.
1. Learn the concept and terminology;
2. Analyze the benefits that can bring you to your organization;
3. Analyze what processes can be easier and more efficient with BIM;
4. Invest in software and training;
5. Start working on pilot projects.
The intelligent 3D model-based process of BIM is progressing on a massive scale, and it is already a standard for construction in different countries. If you are an engineer, especially from the fields of Civil Engineering or Architecture, we recommend starting learning it fast.
BREON Engineering is a pioneer in this technology in Macedonia, with projects done for the Swiss Market. You can see some of them here.
