Building Information Modelling (BIM): The Complete Guide

Civil engineering is the twin of planned construction, and one of the reasons why it is capable of continuously delivering stellar buildings that leave you gawking is not only because of architects who add aesthetic effects or structural engineers who make sure the buildings are built to last. There is another friend civil engineers have who allows them to see the possibility of such. That person is called a BIM engineer or modeller.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has settled into structure construction. But what is BIM? Why is BIM in construction a necessity? What are the common BIM softwares, and what are they used for? Keep reading to get answers to these questions.

Understanding Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Image by Ben Sparhawk on CMDG

Building information modelling is a branch of construction that is too useful to the delicate maintenance between infrastructure construction and environmental health in the world for it to be overlooked. This is why a thorough understanding of the concept is important.

Building Information Modelling: Definition

Building Information Modelling, or BIM, is a series of processes used to create and manage digitised representations of functional and physical characteristics of places and structures. BIM is not just 3D modeling; it is an intelligent use of technology that gives professionals the insight and tools to monitor an infrastructure throughout its lifespan efficiently

Building Information Modelling: History

Photo by Eric Prouzet

Buildings were originally constructed for shelter. Then, it evolved to recognise architects and their importance in making sure beauty never left homes. With both put together, the only thing left was to know how long such beautiful structures would last. The discipline relies fully on technology and, as such, could not have been developed earlier; otherwise, disasters such as the Ponte Das Barca bridge collapse or the South Fork Dam failure could have been prevented.

Engineers, mathematicians, and computer literates tried until the 1970s, when the first conceptual foundations of BIM emerged. In 1992, the term “Building Information Model” was first introduced, though it didn’t gain significant traction until the early 2000s, when Autodesk published a white paper with the term. BIM has evolved to comprehensive 3D modelling, encompassing integrated data management capabilities that provide insight into the entire lifecycle of a construction project.

Building Information Modelling: How it Works

Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay

At its core, BIM creates an intelligent virtual model containing all information related to a building. From geographical data and spatial relationships to properties and quantities of building components. Unlike conventional CAD tools, BIM doesn’t just represent a building’s geometry. It includes vast metadata about every component of a building, making it the structure’s living database.

Building Information Modelling: Key Components

BIM technology consists of many important elements that make it an invaluable tool in modern construction:

1. 3D Modelling: Building Information Modelling supports visual representation that allows stakeholders to visualise the project before a single brick is laid. BIM goes beyond aesthetic visualisation to include spatial relationships and geometrical precision.
2. Data Management: Every element in a BIM model contains detailed information about cost, maintenance schedules, manufacturers, and materials. This wealth of data makes BIM a vital resource throughout the construction lifecycle.
3. Collaboration: BIM enables multiple people to work simultaneously on the same project through cloud-based platforms.
4. Simulation and Analysis: Before construction, engineers can test how buildings will perform under various conditions, saving resources by identifying potential issues early.

Building Information Modelling: Key Roles

Image by Shubham Gupta on G-Source Technologies

The implementation of building information modelling requires various specialised roles that work in harmony to maximise its benefits. They include:

• BIM Manager

BIM managers oversee the entire BIM implementation process. They establish protocols, standards, and workflows. They also ensure all teams are properly using the technology and coordinate between different stakeholders to maintain data integrity and model accuracy.

• Architects and Engineers

These professionals use BIM software to design structures. Architects focus on aesthetics and spatial design, while engineers ensure structural integrity. They benefit from the ability to detect clashes and resolve other possible design issues before construction begins.

• Contractors and Builders

Contractors use BIM models to plan construction sequences, estimate required material quantities, and coordinate subcontractors. The model serves as a virtual construction site, allowing for precise planning and execution and minimising cost.

• Facility Managers

After construction, facility managers use BIM data to efficiently maintain buildings and space, as well as future renovations. The model provides them with accurate information about every component in the building, from HVAC systems to door hinges.

Building Information Modelling: Benefits

The adoption of BIM technology offers numerous advantages across the entire construction lifecycle, making it an increasingly essential tool in the industry. Some of the benefits are:

1. Improved Collaboration and Communication: All stakeholders in a building project can communicate and collaborate in real-time using one platform thanks to BIM.
2. Cost and time efficiency: By using BIM, up to 50% of project budget and time are saved, reducing wasteful use of both time and money.
3. Enhanced Design Accuracy and Visualisation: Thanks to Building Information Modelling technology, the accuracy of designs has greatly improved. Additionally, visualisation is more detailed, reducing the possibility of error.
4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: With sustainability becoming increasingly demanded in construction, designers can reduce how much energy structures consume through simulation and making adjustments when needed.
5. Lifecycle Management and Maintenance: Thanks to BIM, maintaining and managing an infrastructure is less daunting than before.

BIM Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash

Due to BIM being a complex technology system, there is a guide for implementing it. These steps make sure that results gotten after data input are accurate and support design accuracy. These steps include:

• Planning Stage

Every BIM implementation process begins from the planning phase. This phase requires that the project scope, BIM goals, and appropriate software tools are determined. A BIM execution plan is also agreed upon at this stage.

• Design and Modelling

The next stage requires that a 3D model of the building be created. Building systems including electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and structural systems are incorporated. Progression in the design moves the design from a conceptual design to detailed construction documentation. This makes it easy to detect clashes before construction starts.

• Construction and Execution

Once construction starts, constructors use BIM to direct the physical results of the building, making the design intent and reality more synonymous than before the implementation of Building Information Modelling into construction.

• Post-Construction and Facility Management

After completion, the as-built BIM model becomes an invaluable asset for building owners and facility managers. This digital twin contains all the information needed for efficient operation and maintenance, including equipment specifications, warranty information, and maintenance schedules. When renovations or expansions are needed, the BIM model provides accurate starting conditions.

Building Information Management: Challenges and Limitations

Despite possessing multiple benefits, BIM implementation is not as simple. There are multiple drawbacks and challenges to using the technology. These challenges include:

1. High cost of BIM software
2. Data management complexity
3. Finding skilled BIM professionals
4. Resistance toward industry adoption

Building Information Modelling: Future and Emerging Trends

Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into BIM is making the technology capable of more. Prediction Analysis and Repetitive tasks are being weeded out, making the designing and maintenance of BIM models easier. While 3D continues to be enhanced using 4D, 5D, and 6D advancement, BIM is gradually moving away from being a visualization software.

Countries worldwide are being backed by their governments to adopt BIM into the structural construction process. Over 15 countries, spanning five continents have been openly backed by their governments, highlighting the interesting future that awaits the Building Information Modelling technology sector.

Conclusion

Building information modeling has risen from being the results of unknown research conducted in the 1970s to a technology that is holding the backbone of the construction sector. With the numerous benefits it offers and the governments of different countries backing it, BIM is only going to grow.