BIM and the AEC Industry

Building Information Modeling, or BIM, is a technology as well as a method. It began through the realization a connection is needed through the various departments to ensure the proper work is completed on a project. When multiple mistakes are caused by overlooking an issue, it results in the use of more materials and more money invested; this is not sustainable. BIM allows every aspect of the design team to work together and view files to see where issues may lie in the varying departments. With the creation of a 3D model, the different design teams can then create simulations through the building’s lifecycle. Every aspect of a building can be shown in BIM allowing the owner to see their buildings' exterior materials, fit into the surroundings, and interior appearance.

The idea of BIM can be traced back to a quote by Douglas C. Englebart in 1962 describing a hand drawing rising out of a page essentially yet displayed on a screen. The 1970s and 1980s brought about software dealing with very basic geometry. These shapes had the ability to be layered to form complex shapes. Building Description System was the first to create software allowing users to pick specific qualities such as materials for a design. Charles Eastman created this and continues to be proficient in BIM. He believes that hard copies do not show thorough enough detail for a project that will be a 3-dimensional artwork in the end. England developed several systems in the 1980s that brought about improvements and furthering popularity for BIM. Phases in the construction process shown through BIM was brought about during this time. In 1993 a simulation process was added to show results of varying conditions. Revit came about and has since been a leader in the industry.

The AEC industry is an abbreviation of the architectural, engineering, and construction aspects of bringing a project to life. By having a 3D virtual model to view and change, it allows issues with the future facility to be fixed early on. The inclusion of BIM has helped with many long-term problems, two, in particular, being cost and production time. BIM runs tests on the design while pointing out precise issues that would arise to improper design. The design can be broken down and isolated to focus on problem areas or just general assembly of aspects. While BIM may just be seen as a software to use to save money, it is much more than that. It has created a shared space for the AEC industry to harmoniously combine their specialties in one interactive space. In BIM they are able to create a 3D model, review codes, estimate cost, manage construction sequencing, conflict detection, detect potential building failures, and assist in later maintenance of the building. Opposed to hand drawings, BIM has a cleaner appearance, is faster, and provides future predictions, making in the staple in the industry.

While BIM was developed and integrated quickly into the United States and European AEC industries, it seemed to have taken a bit longer for the Chinese to grasp though they have rapidly grown in their use. The main issue appears to be incorporating standards and guidelines for the industry. China is scattered when it comes to standards though they strive for digital construction. The government has been putting in plans to increase BIM use over the years with the goal of 90% using BIM by 2020. While BIM is being adopted, it is not in full. The design aspect is prominent with the construction analysis being overlooked. Chinas creation of national standards in data exchange, BIM capability, and BIM application process is the systematic need for BIM to work at its full capacity.

Virtual reality and augmented reality provide many opportunities in the BIM industry. Augmented reality inserts aspects that are digitally created into the real setting while virtual reality is a fully digital creation. An app that can be downloaded on a cellphone that is a representation of this technology is Visual Vocal. It allows users to upload building plans into a determined setting the users can then add other people into the setting for virtual meetings. The users can “walk” around and inside the building as well as write comments and make notes. This is very useful for people separated by large distances but working on the same project. Being able to walk around a BIM model using a virtual reality helmet would allow an in-depth look into the feeling the building creates or the practicality depending on the building's use. You could see the finished product before construction even begins. While VR is helpful in seeing the building’s exterior and interior layout, it can be further useful for interior designers. Seeing from every angle how the room looks, walking around the furniture in that setting would provide a guarantee in the special final product.

BIM Design Review and BIM Collaboration are two recent additions to the building information modeling systems. Design Review centers around the sharing of documents to ensure it is what everyone agrees with. It allows users to view, comment, and share ideas. Collaborate is similar but prior to the review. Collaboration is done in the process of designing the building. It allows multiple people to work on the project in real-time.

Sustainability and sustainable construction are terms used more freely than they should be nowadays. Sustainable construction centers around creating efficient, cost-effective homes that have the capability to meet our needs as well as future generations. All aspects of the project’s creation are important to its sustainable title. From the design of the building to the materials to the cost of those materials, the systems used to build and maintain the building all contribute to its sustainability factor. By using BIM in the design process, it allows for a continuous calculation of building materials and cost. By having is all online it also removes the use for paper and an easy way to edit documents between designers. This online quality can be further translated into the building optimum use through its life by allowing the managers of the building to know what the building requires to run the most efficiently.

Many advancements have been made throughout history in the construction world. The most recent and most vital for the future is the modern creation of BIM. This online modeling software opens a door to the possibilities of new and creative architectural designs while maintaining a safe and efficient status. By connecting the AEC industry the possibilities for future buildings seem endless. With what has already been created, the new technologies brought out by BIM are sure to improve the quality of life for future generations.

Related posts:

As I enjoy a nice spring day in East Texas, I look at our current crisis down at the border. I personally believe this was self-inflicted by the current administration, something that they would…