What is BIM? All Applications Explained!

BIM is one of the trending civil engineering technological advancements. It has impacted the construction sector hugely and continue to make it better and better.

In this blog, we will find out all the details of BIM.

Let’s start from the definition.

What is BIM?

• BIM is an acronym for Building Information Modeling.
• It is a highly collaborative process that allows multiple stakeholders and AEC (architecture, engineering, construction) professionals to collaborate on the planning, design, and construction of a building within one 3D model.
• It can also span into the operation and management of buildings using data that owners have access to.
• This data allows owners and stakeholders to make decisions based on pertinent information derived from the model even after the building is constructed.

In the next section, I will walk you through different BIM objects.

BIM Objects

• BIM objects, the components that make up a BIM model, are intelligent, have geometry, and store data.
• If any element is changed, BIM software updates the model to reflect that change.
• This allows the model to remain consistent and coordinated throughout the entire process so that structural engineers, architects, MEP engineers, designers, project managers, and contractors can work in a more collaborative environment.

Time to know the future of BIM.

The Future of Building Information Modeling

• Because of the clear benefits, it’s certain that BIM is here to stay.
• It has defined goals and objectives that are clearly beneficial to all those who work their way through the levels.
• Undoubtedly, the future of construction will be even more highly collaborative and digital.
• As BIM becomes increasingly more sophisticated, 4D, 5D, and even 6D BIM will start to play a part in the process.
• Furthermore, around the globe, there is an attempt to reduce waste in construction.
• Much of this is attributed to supply chain inefficiencies, clashes, and reworking.
• By working collaboratively in a BIM environment, all of this becomes much less likely, setting the stage for a better tomorrow

Now, let me show you how Building Information Modelling can help you.

How can BIM help you?

• BIM brings together all of the information about every component of a building, in one place.
• BIM makes it possible for anyone to access that information for any purpose, e.g. to integrate different aspects of the design more effectively.
• In this way, the risk of mistakes or discrepancies is reduced, and abortive costs minimized.
• BIM data can be used to illustrate the entire building life-cycle, from cradle to cradle, from inception and design to demolition and materials reuse. Spaces, systems, products and sequences can be shown in relative scale to each other and, in turn, relative to the entire project.
• And by signalling conflict detection BIM prevents errors creeping in at the various stages of development/ construction

Also read: Types of Cracks in Building- 14 Causes& Prevention Full Details

Applications of Building Information Modeling

A building information model can be used for the following purposes:

• Visualization: 3D renderings can be easily generated in house with little additional effort.

• Fabrication/shop drawings: It is easy to generate shop drawings for various building systems. For example, the sheet metal ductwork shop drawings can be quickly produced once the model is complete.

• Code reviews: Fire departments and other officials may use these models for their review of building projects.

• Cost estimating: BIM software has built-in cost estimating features. Material quantities are automatically extracted and updated when any changes are made in the model.

• Construction sequencing: A building information model can be effectively used to coordinate material ordering, fabrication, and delivery schedules for all building components.

• Conflict, interference, and collision detection: Because building information models are created to scale in 3D space, all major systems can be instantly and automatically checked for interferences. For example, this process can verify that piping does not intersect with steel beams, ducts, or walls.

• Forensic analysis: A building information model can be easily adapted to graphically illustrate potential failures, leaks, evacuation plans, and so forth.

• Facilities management: Facilities management departments can use it for renovations, space planning, and maintenance operations.

Also read: 3 d Printing buildings |Concrete Printing & Contour Crafting Methods Full Guide

In the next section, let’s see the benefits of building information modelling.

Benefits of BIM

• Accurate geometrical representation of the parts of a building in an integrated data environment
• Faster and more effective processes: Information is more easily shared and can be value-added and reused.
• Better design: Building proposals can be rigorously analyzed, simulations performed quickly, and performance benchmarked, enabling improved and innovative solutions.
• Controlled whole-life costs and environmental data: Environmental performance is more predictable, and lifecycle costs are better understood.
• Better production quality: Documentation output is flexible and exploits automation.
• Automated assembly: Digital product data can be exploited in downstream processes and used for manufacturing and assembly of structural systems.
• Better customer service: Proposals are better understood through accurate visualization.
• Lifecycle data: Requirements, design, construction, and operational information can be used in facilities management.

That’s it about BIM. You have seen the technical details as well as other aspects of the innovation.

So, do you think it’s going to change the future of civil engineering? Let me know in comments.