With the rise of Building Information Modeling (BIM), it's hard to remember a time when 3D CAD was the holy grail of construction design and planning. BIM emerged to transform the construction industry, providing a more efficient means for planning and executing a project.
Although it began to be idealized in the 70s, modern Building Information Modeling has only recently emerged - based on a graphical interface to access a single integrated database of high-quality images that can be manipulated and analyzed.
And as the potential applications of BIM grow, so does enthusiasm about the potential of this technology. For this reason, we can understand Building Information Modeling as the future of engineering!
What is Building Information Modeling?
Building Information Modeling—or BIM—is an intelligent model-based process for collaboratively planning, designing, constructing, and managing buildings, using a coherent system of computer models as opposed to separate sets of drawings. In this way, it is possible to connect Architecture, Electrical and Construction professionals - ensuring efficiency in the design, construction, and management of the project in question.
The output of a BIM design procedure is known as BIMs, or Building Information Models. They are digital data files or formats that portray project details, aiding in decision-making throughout the project cycle.
With technology becoming more advanced with each passing year, Building Information Modeling couldn't have come at a better time for structural engineering and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic) companies. Engineering companies that offer BIM services have the advantage of optimizing their processes and increasing profitability — managing to keep up with increasing construction requirements.
Why is Building Information Modeling the Future of Engineering?
Building Information Modeling helps engineers improve workflow and produce more efficiently, increasing quality and reducing costs. Taking this into consideration, it's impossible not to see BIM being used more and more in the future.
Here are the main reasons that indicate that Building Information Modeling is the future of engineering:
1. Modernization of the budget process
With a BIM model that includes comprehensive 3D modeling of all MEP structures and systems, construction companies are able to evaluate proposals fairly with a quantity survey, costed line by line. The total bid price will therefore reflect actual construction material costs, rather than estimates.
2. Benefits for the environment
Construction companies increasingly prioritize sustainability, right? With a 3D BIM model, instead of 2D drawings, it is possible to provide much more accurate results. This empowers architects and contractors to better define the exact quantities of building materials needed.
When this estimate is accurate, the budget will be closer to the final budget and a dramatic reduction in material waste can be achieved. After all, this precision also directly impacts the energy, resources, and travel time needed to obtain construction materials — benefiting the environment.
3. Reduction of electricity and water consumption during construction
When product manufacturers' specifications are entered into the BIM ecosystem at the beginning of the design phase, mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems can be tested and designs can be easily reviewed. In addition, improving the system's efficiency will benefit stakeholders long after construction is complete.
4. Better experience for building occupants
An accurate BIM model of a building makes it easier to obtain critical feedback from stakeholders through informational visualizations and virtual tours. Including the perspective of the occupant community during the design phase helps produce more successful buildings.
5. Optimization of communication during construction
Communication is a critical aspect for the success of a work and a constant challenge. With BIM, all changes such as schedules, schedules, availability of materials, and the right specialized teams can be coordinated through digital apps and mobile devices in real time, keeping all parties informed.
Data loss can also be prevented when all parties work with the same updated and easily accessible digital Building Information Modeling model.
6. Cost control
In software engineering, prototype solutions are built and tested quickly to eliminate flaws as soon as possible. In the construction world, construction companies need to ensure that the initial version is the best possible in their project, since a second version of a building is not possible without expensive renovations.
Building Information Modeling can help avoid emergency repair situations, which easily lead to increased costs. In addition, BIM allows the first version of a building to be analyzed, tested, and analyzed again. The design can be iterated and evolved many times - resulting in a vastly improved construction.
7. Enabling predictive maintenance
Building Information Modeling helps construction companies achieve a level of predictive maintenance, meaning that unplanned interruptions can be reduced, while maintenance cycles can be carefully planned.
This provides greater accuracy in facility management budgeting. The facility management team won't be surprised by unexpected equipment changes — all of these data points can be predicted by the BIM model.
8. More efficient building management systems
The widespread use of sensors in buildings paved the way for intelligent buildings. And those smart buildings will know not only how the building is used, but also if something goes wrong with it.
For example, if there is a leak in the piping system, moisture in the structure may be noticed before it causes any mold and subsequent health problems. This detailed building information can be connected directly to the building's management systems.
From the building owner's perspective, the BIM model will contain valuable information about the building's assets. An owner can click on an aspect of the system to see an installation date, who installed it, what maintenance was performed, and warranty information. The ability to have so much data about the components of a building leads to a better relationship between the owner and any contractors, maintenance companies, and other partners.
Did you already know why Building Information Modeling is the future of engineering? Did you have any questions about the matter? Leave your comment.
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