Building Information Modeling (BIM): A Design-Build Simulation Product

By Alex Edgar Audience and Scope: The purpose of this article is to inform civil and architectural engineers about Building Information Modeling, and how this new design product will help shape the construction industry for years to come. BIM can be broken down into thousands of products, but for the purpose of this paper, it will specifically describe Building Design. The design process involving rolled up documents (2D) and countless meetings has become too time consuming for todays building schedule. For this reason, AutoDesk has incorporated a new product into the Cad programs, called BIM: Building Design Suite. Universities have incorporated this idea into their curriculum, and most companies have already made a transition from paper to computer 3D drawings. This article is suited for a monthly engineering magazine that notifies companies on the latest software products and how BIM can ultimately save time and money.

Figure 1: BIM vs. 2D CAD Product

Introduction: Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a term that has appeared in engineering design over the past 20 years. It has been said that it will revolutionize the construction industry and will help clean up the relationship process between architect and engineer. BIM is a product that involves creating and using an intelligent 3D model to inform and communicate project decisions. It has transformed the use of paper drawing sets and email into one computer program, which allows for constructive collaboration and instant indulgence. For example, the Building Design Suite allows for an Architect, Contractor, Structural, and MEP engineer to design, document, and coordinate in the same file. If a change is made to the drawings, it instantly updates all information, and alerts the user of any errors or formalities.

Realizing the Benefits of BIM Applications BIM offers a number of applications to the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. The first of which is a 3D visualization, which can be used for modeling, or in presentations as actual movies; Shown below in Figure 2. An architect can implement walls, doors, and color schemes to a building, and see the result in clear, real model. Another aspect BIM offers is code reviews and forensic analysis. As most know, safety has become the most important part of construction today. Fire departments, as well as other officials may use models to review building codes before the building is ever fabricated.

Figure 2: BIM Modeling Two of the most important applications BIM offers is cost estimating and construction sequencing, which is known as 5D. The software has a built in cost estimating feature which again allows for linking data and better visualization. An estimator is the backbone of a general contractor firm, as they bring in the projects by having the most effective cost assessment. The same process is used for BIM software. However, it is more comprehensive by placing a price next to an object and being able to adjust budget visualization with one simple click of the mouse. Budget visualization not only helps lay people comprehend the terminology, but it allows for understanding how design change can affect cost. An estimator with these tools will be able to make a larger impact by showing visual price comparisons. Construction sequencing (Figure shown below), also known as scheduling, is another important aspect to the AEC industry. The scheduling model can be used to order materials, fabricate the building, and track completion dates. This is an extremely serviceable tool, and again shows models (live movies) of the project schedule over the course of its buildings life.

Figure 3: Schedule and Model over a Buildings life cycle Workflow and Clash Detection Each year, millions of dollars are lost due to poor planning and integrating design into construction. Michael Smith of NBS Information recently documented the percentages behind 2D model building design. He stated the following: 30% of the construction process is rework 60% of the labor effort is wasted 10% loss is due to wasted materials 3-5% of the construction turnover is wasted due to loss of interoperability.

The AEC industry is trying to eliminate this waste, and BIM implementation is one of its main priorities. Its most time saving application is called Workflow and Clash Detection, as all major systems can be visually checked for interferences. For instance, an HVAC engineer is trying to design his system within the ceiling of a second floor office building. As he is working, the engineer can run his proposal against all other components to see if it will fit. Clash detection will ultimately lower rework cost during the construction phase and will also save time on meetings, where 2D drawings would be discussed. Clash Detection can be broken down into three main categories. Hard Clash- when two objects occupy the same space. For example, a pipe going through a wall where there is no opening. Soft Clash - allowable tolerances or space; for example, buffer zones between components left to provide space for future maintenance. 4D/Workflow- clashes in scheduling work crews, equipment/material fabrication and other timeline issues.

BIM: A Complete Operating Cycle The most critical aspect to BIM is communication between the owner, design profession (architect), engineer, and general contractor. Whether it is 2D or 3D modeling, money will be lost without collaborating between team members. Initially, an owner will hire the design professional to design his building and choose an appropriate crew of engineers and contractors. It is in this process that BIM becomes essential for advanced modeling, sustainability analysis, estimating, scheduling, field deployment, and commissioning. The following figure depicts the AEC process that goes into completing a sustainable building. With BIM, meetings and emails are limited because the process can be completed by all members on one linked file.

Figure 4: AEC Process that is Limited by BIM

The architect will upload his original design, while each engineer (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.) will be able to implement their criteria. The aforementioned clash detection will serve as a check to limit wasted construction time and allow for any future-use open space. At any point in this phase, a presentation can be made to the owner/client using a movie-like model which allows the user to tour the proposed building. The general contractor will also be planning his schedule through the BIM product, while linking his materials to the design and an associated cost. Safety officials will save time and money by completing reviews before the building is ever built. In conclusion, BIM has created a large paradigm shift in the industry, and will serve as one of the most important products for years to come. There is no question that the BIM community will continue to expand, creating an uphill battle for stubborn AEC owners. By converting now, BIM can immediately reduce rework, improve productivity, and become a great marketing tool.

Works Cited Figure 1: "Trending News." BIM & CAD Software for Architects, Interior Designers & Urban Planners. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2014. Figure 2: "Interstate Electrical Services Corporation Provides Emergency Electrical Repair and Electrical Construction Services to Companies throughout New England | Interstate Electrical Services." Interstate Electrical Services Corporation Provides Emergency Electrical Repair and Electrical Construction Services to Companies throughout New England | Interstate Electrical Services. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2014. Figure 3: "Consult BIM, 4D BIM Planning, Animations, BIM Consultancy, DProfiler,." Consult BIM, 4D BIM Planning, Animations, BIM Consultancy, DProfiler,. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2014. Figure 4: "Dowco Technology Services Ltd - Canadian Tekla Structures, Fabtrol MRP, Archicad Resellers, BIM Solutions & Services Provider." Dowco Technology Services Ltd Canadian Tekla Structures, Fabtrol MRP, Archicad Resellers, BIM Solutions & Services Provider. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2014.