The dynamic process known as Building Information Modeling (BIM) involves a number of stages and levels in order to produce models for construction projects that are information-rich. It is an all-encompassing phrase that describes properly organized digital information at every stage of the construction process, including project planning, design, construction, operation, and delivery.
The use cases, also known as predetermined and specific purposes, of BIM models, are real-world applications. Specific parameters are included in BIM, giving the model its size based on the project complexity and stage needs.
The data linked with a model is improved by including additional dimensions. With the use of BIM dimensions, you may analyze your building project more precisely and learn more about its delivery, budget, and timing. Additionally, it aids in predicting the sustainability of the buildings and infrastructure.
Benefits of BIM Dimensions
BIM has transformed the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) sector. For example, through an intelligent model-based method, BIM aids engineers in gaining a better understanding of constructing and virtually assessing the project hazards.
Building information modelling (BIM) also assists contractors in reducing material waste. Contrarily, as manual reports are already obsolete, BIM for architects ensures that faulty information transfers are much reduced, if not entirely eliminated.
Data like reality capture is collected with ease via BIM software. The technology then stores it in an accessible area where it is available in real-time to everyone working on the construction project. As a result, it makes it possible for many stakeholders, such as AEC experts, vendors, and building owners, to collaborate effectively.
BIM Dimensions in a Nutshell
Building information has quickly advanced from 2D computer-aided design (CAD) to 3D and 4D data in BIM models due to the growing ambition to reinvent how buildings are produced. The AEC sector’s future is currently being advanced by sophisticated 5D, 6D, and 7D BIM technologies.
As previously discussed, the 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and 7D BIM dimensions each have pre-established and distinct objectives that change depending on the stage of the project. The types of information supplied for each dimension and its benefits are described in depth in the sections that follow.
What is 3D BIM?
The most well-known sort of BIM model for the three geographic dimensions (x, y, and z) of a building structure is 3D BIM. Before the project begins, stakeholders may see the building’s anatomy thanks to the geographic information this model has gathered. Before moving on to the next step, stakeholders can now assess and resolve structural challenges.
Benefits of 3D BIM include:
- Improved 3D visualization of the entire project
- Shared realistic design expectations among stakeholders
- Reduced possibilities of rework and revisions through effective communication among collaborators
What is 4D BIM?
The duration of a project is estimated via 4D BIM. The addition of timetable and scheduling details makes it easier to visualize how the project has changed over time. This feature goes into more detail on how long it takes to get a project operational, how to install components and other scheduling information.
Benefits of 4D BIM include:
- Early conflict detection through well-managed information on site status and visualized impact of changes undertaken during the entire life-cycle
- Enhanced scheduling optimization and site planning
- Improved efficiency and preparedness through shared timeline expectations
- Increased safety with well-documented construction plans
What is 5D BIM?
5D BIM is useful in situations where budget analysis and cost estimation are required early in the project’s life cycle. It provides project managers and building owners with a reliable estimate of the costs of various construction designs and activities. It can precisely determine the project’s budgetary demand throughout time, including the material, human resources, and equipment.
Benefits of 5D BIM include:
- Real-time notifications and visualization of cost overrun
- Automated count for system, equipment, or components associated with a project
- Minimized unnecessary budget spending with regularly updated cost reporting and budgeting
What is 6D BIM?
The sustainability and energy efficiency of construction is improved through 6D BIM, also called integrated BIM. With the help of this approach, energy utilization may be analyzed during the preliminary design stage.
Contrary to the traditional method, which emphasizes the initial costs, 6D BIM offers comprehensive building information that can enhance a project’s facilities management and operations.
A component’s manufacturer, installation date, maintenance schedule, configuration specifications for optimum performance, energy need, and decommissioning information are essentially included in this dimension.
Benefits of 6D BIM include:
- Comprehensive analysis of the economic and operational facets of the project lifecycle
- Improved building operation and maintenance after project handover
- Improved efficiency and preparedness through shared timeline expectations
- Reduced energy consumption of the building structure