BIM is a collaborative work methodology applied to the construction sector, a collection of data from a building organized to facilitate the Management of engineering, architecture, and construction projects, achieving improvements in the result and efficiency in the processes. All professionals involved in a construction project can work on a single project in real-time with access to the same information.

The BIM Modeling Management of any architectural project requires models that ensure efficiency in the processes and the final delivery of a quality product. Among them is building information modeling, which is the process of generating and managing data of a building throughout its life cycle. For this, dynamic modeling software adds different dimensions to a project, encompassing the geometry of the structure, spatial relationships, geometric information, and the quantities and properties of its components, among other elements.

To support these processes, an intelligent database is also updated with each progress in the project, showing information in real-time and allowing us to visualize the changes in different areas simultaneously. Managing these modifications is to increase efficiency and sustainability throughout its life cycle.

Its acronym responds to the expression in English “Building Information Modeling” or information modeling for construction and allows

BIM allows construction projects to be defined and carried out from a global and integrated perspective, keeping in mind the entire construction project of the building in each of its phases, from its initial sketch to its launch.

For professionals involved in a construction project, BIM Modeling allows the use of a virtual data model managed by a team of designers made up of architects, engineers, landscapers, quantity surveyors, designers, installers (and in general, all construction technicians), and developers (public or private), investors, construction companies, etc. All professionals involved in the project contribute data and information to a single shared model.

In this way, the risk of information loss when a new professional or group interacts with the rest of the team and modifies the project data is reduced.

In addition, managing all the information and resources necessary for a construction project represents a reliable basis for making significant decisions during the building’s offer, execution, or maintenance. This collaborative method focuses on essential issues such as urban links, construction costs, maintenance, and energy efficiency.

For these reasons, organizations worldwide have already introduced regulations to promote and favor BIM Modeling technology to reduce costs and errors, increase productivity and improve access to information and coordination during planning. The new European directive on public procurement mandated BIM technology for publicly funded building and construction projects for all 28 member countries by 2016. Other countries in Asia and North America have also already adopted similar strategies. 

MODEL COMPONENTS OF BIM MODELING

Each word that makes up the BIM acronym represents the literal term and a concept and function that manages the model.

BUILDING

In this methodology, the building is understood as a collaborative project consisting of areas in constant dialogue. It is an open communication channel where the best solutions are discussed, and critical design decisions are anticipated, preventing future problems later.

Among its advantages is the visualization in three dimensions, which facilitates understanding the decisions during the project’s development. In addition, the representation of the phases gives us a global vision of the life cycle, considering all the elements at stake and anticipating future needs, such as the environmental impact of the building, its energy efficiency, and operating costs. 

INFORMATION

Using the BIM work methodology and its platforms means creating and developing a constantly updated database. The information contained in this system is open to all team members, who can use it, reuse it, and optimize it when necessary. Additionally, it can be included as a deliverable to the committed client to the project.

MODELING 

Although the official definition indicates that the M refers to modeling, some professionals prefer to say that it means Management (administration), which fits with the idea that the structure is built on organized data, giving shape to a system that can later be managed updated by the principal.

STAGES AND AREAS COVERED

All project information, including the work areas involved, is entered into a single three-dimensional model. In addition, materials and products have associated physical and functional characteristics, such as weight, strength, and manufacturer.

 In this way, the physical components of the different disciplines participating in the project are visualized in three dimensions, allowing the calculation of materials and the definition of specifications. Some examples of areas and tasks covered by this model are:

  • Architecture: Distribution plans, sections, location plan with land, volumetric views, door and window frames, finishing frame.
  • Interior design: Woodwork, ceilings, presentation views with materials, etc.
  • Structures: Foundation plans, column plans, slab structure plans, roof structure, and elevations of each axis.
  • Mechanical engineering: Air conditioning design, air volume charts, and mechanical circulation.
  • Electrical engineering: Lighting plant, power wiring plant, and load chart.
  • Sanitary engineering: Coldwater network plant, sewage system, and gas distribution.
  • Construction: Programming of construction phases, updating the model as-built, and technical coordination.
  • Security installations: Fire protection, detection systems, extinction, and evacuation systems.

Main advantages of BIM Modeling

Detailed vision of the construction project design

BIM simplifies the design process of a construction project. All the professionals involved enter information related to their work in a joint project, thus reducing the risk of error. 

Reduce conflicts in construction projects

There are numerous participants and interactions between the parties in any construction project. Each piece of information displayed may not be for everyone involved in the project and can lead to ambiguity. BIM can help users access and use only the information relevant to their tasks and operations. 

BIM improves productivity

Architects and other professionals consider BIM technology one of the best innovations to improve their productivity and provide a higher return on investment.

BIM Reduce conflicts

In the construction industry, one of the best ways to detect conflicts and save time and money in processes is using the BIM methodology. A comprehensive view of the project with up-to-date information and the possibility of generating personalized reports at all times will mean clarifying any doubts regarding the project.