Building Information Modeling

Building Information Modeling is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building. It is a process that involves creating and using a 3D model to design, plan, and manage the construction and maintenance of a building or other facility.

How do you create a
Building Information Model?

BIM involves the use of computer software to create a virtual model of the building that can be used to communicate design and construction information among the various stakeholders involved in a building project. This includes architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers.

The use of BIM can help to improve communication and collaboration among these stakeholders, as well as reduce errors and rework during the design and construction process. It can also be used to optimize building performance and reduce the environmental impact of the building.

BIM is becoming increasingly popular in the construction industry, as it offers many benefits over traditional methods of design and construction.

Most widely used BIM development softwares are

  • Autodesk Revit

  • Bentley Systems Microstation

  • Graphisoft ArchiCAD

  • Trimble SketchUp

Who uses a Building Information Model?

Building Information Modeling is used by a wide range of professionals in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers.

Architects use BIM to design and plan the layout and appearance of a building, as well as to coordinate with other design professionals, such as structural and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) engineers.

Engineers use BIM to analyze and design the various systems and components of a building, such as the structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

Contractors use BIM to plan and execute construction activities, such as scheduling, estimating, and procurement. BIM can also be used to visualize the construction process and identify potential issues or conflicts before they occur.

Facility managers use BIM to manage and maintain a building over its lifespan. This can include tasks such as scheduling repairs and maintenance, tracking asset inventory, and analyzing energy usage.

In addition to these professionals, BIM is also used by government agencies, owners, and operators of buildings and other facilities, as well as consultants and specialized service providers.

What is the advantage of BIM over CAD?

Building Information Modeling and CAD are both computer-aided design (CAD) software tools that are commonly used in the construction industry. However, there are some key differences between the two that make BIM more suitable for certain tasks and industries.

One of the main advantages of BIM over CAD is that it provides a more comprehensive and holistic view of a building or facility. While CAD is primarily used for 2D drafting and drawing, BIM creates a 3D model of the building that includes not only the physical characteristics of the building but also the functional and performance-related aspects. This includes information about the building's systems and components, such as electrical, mechanical, and plumbing, as well as information about materials, schedules, and cost estimates.

Another advantage of BIM is that it enables better collaboration and communication among the various stakeholders involved in a building project. BIM allows different professionals, such as architects, engineers, and contractors, to work together in a single virtual model, which can help to reduce errors and rework during the design and construction process.

BIM also has a number of other features and capabilities that make it more suited to certain tasks and industries. For example, it can be used to simulate and analyze building performance, such as energy usage and environmental impact, as well as to manage and maintain a building over its lifespan.

While both BIM and AutoCAD are valuable tools for design and construction, BIM offers a more comprehensive and collaborative approach that can help improve efficiency and reduce errors and waste in the building process.

Scan to BIM

In the scan to BIM process, a laser scanner is used to capture a
high-resolution, 3D point cloud of the structure or environment.
This point cloud is then processed using specialized software, which converts or is used as a reference to create a digital BIM.