What is BIM modeling? Building Information Modeling abbreviated as BIM, is best defined as a comprehensive procedure for developing and managing construction projects. With the advancement in the field of construction technology, BIM can also be stated as the digital representation of architecture, engineering, and construction, or AEC.
What are the dimensions of BIM and their advantages in the latest building infrastructure? BIM dimensions are the levels of data such as time, the cost required, sustainability, and other features specified in the BIM modeling. 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D, 8D, 9D, and 10D are the globally accepted BIM dimensions.
Continue reading to find out what makes each of them different from each other and, hence, make an informed decision while planning and designing your asset.
BIM dimensions, as stated, are the different levels of data or information entailed in building information modeling. Find the progressive integration of information in each dimension of BIM in the following:
3D is one of the most common and familiar models that gathers information effectively to form 3D models of a building. However, the models are created to be shared in the common data environment (CDE). The primary advantage of 3D models is the reduced repair work that simultaneously saves huge amounts on construction costs. Furthermore, the design helps in the proper understanding of logistics.
4D BIM models have much more information in their integrated modeling version, which includes the time required for the completion of the project. The model is a richer source of information, as you could extract installation time, the time required to cross through, and others. The time-related data allows for visualising the work at each stage. This in turn helps the project planners in foreseeing any issues, taking feedback, and managing to meet the allocated timeline.
When 3D and 4D models provide spatial and time dimensions, the 5D dimensions give an idea of the cost required for the whole building’s purpose. The model incorporates anything and everything related to cost data, materials, labour, and other requirements. The benefit of implementing 5D BIM is that it helps in tracking expenses, estimating building costs, performing cost analysis, and more.
6D models focus on the post-phase of construction, going for the wider aspects and sustainability of the project. It is also referred to as facilities management or project life cycle information, owing to the information it entails. And what are the details included in a 6D model? The expected lifespan, optimum performance, maintenance timing, etc. come into play in this building information modeling.
7D BIM model is basically a combination of 3D, 4D, 5D, and 6D models that additionally assist in the operation and timely maintenance of the building structure. What makes the model preferable over others is the technical specifications, warranty information, and operation manuals it can feature. Moreover, you can manage the construction process all the way from the design stage to the final demolition.
The dimension has its primary focus on the health and safety of the residents. Hence, the model provides safety information, foreseeing all the possible risks involved during construction. After getting a detailed analysis of safety designs, the project planners can find solutions to reduce hazards.
9D analysis, or lean construction, primarily streamlines the implementation of a particular project with digitalisation. The main purpose of 9D building information modeling is the effective management of raw materials and resources to reduce waste. By constantly monitoring the strategies used, designers can efficiently utilise the resources while also sticking to the budget.
10D models are made to enhance the productivity of the construction site with the help of the latest technologies and changing environments. Advantages of this modelling include reduced construction time, increased quality of the build, proper management during any stages, and efficient usage of the funds allocated.
Since building information modeling is a new term in the field, so are the advanced versions of it. Hence, BIM models present a set of challenges and considerations, which are as follows:
One main challenge to switching to BIM is the availability of accurate information. In order to provide spatial, time, sustainability, management analysis, and more, BIM models require input from architects, stakeholders, etc.
Owing to the requirement for accurate data, this technology needs enhanced collaboration and communication with the clients and other participants in the project. It is clear communication that facilitates the ease of crafting models and reworking them.
The cost analysis of the project is another specific challenge faced by the creators. In order to accurately link with cost data, building information modeling has to keep a check on real-time cost updates, establish cost libraries, etc.
Implementation of this digitalised version of building models demands changes in existing workflows, organizational structures, and more. In accordance with this difficulty in switching platforms, BIM models face the challenge of project participants resisting choosing them.
Building information modeling greatly requires the latest and most efficient software capable of creating models with the utmost accuracy. Hence, selecting the right software has significance in supporting desired changes.
With the introduction of BIM in the AEC industry, the construction of assets has attained a greater level of effectiveness and efficiency in the field. As per the observations of Dodge Data & Analytics, building information modeling has considerably enhanced the ROI of projects.
The advancements have made BIM procedures a lot simpler, making way for the possibilities of evolution in the AEC industry. BIM trends emerging in 2023 include the following:
Foreseeing the advantages of the building information modeling trends, around 78% of manufacturers agree that BIM is the future of project management. Incorporating anything and everything regarding software, tools, etc. in a single model makes it easier for anyone to comprehend.
Understanding the prospects of evolving building structures and designs, Design Solutions Inc. in the UAE plays an important role in the construction industry by changing workflow to digital rendition. With the help of advanced technologies,proper collaboration, tools, and communication with the clients, we have always tried to keep a step forward digitally. Collaborate with us, and our BIM consultants will customise your dream project.
BIM dimensions are different levels of data that show various aspects of a building’s design. Various BIM dimensions are 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D, 8D, 9D, and 10D.
2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and 7D are various layers of information that depict building structure. 2D and 3D are traditional dimensions that refer to drawings, plans, and the physical aspects of buildings.
