What Is Building Information Modeling (BIM)?
What advantages does BIM technology provide in the AEC industry? None. You often hear this from builders, and there is a simple explanation. Today, it is enough for a construction company to have detailed design documentation and well-established business processes to plan and carry out construction and installation work efficiently. The experience of implementing complex structures without using BIM is the best evidence of this; therefore, introducing BIM on a project site alone will not improve the construction facility’s quality or reliability; there is no need to implement BIM.
One of the reasons an AEC company will still have to pay attention to BIM and incorporate it into its work is the timing of the project. Implementing any large-scale industrial project inevitably imposes tight deadlines on its participants, forcing them to improve the quality of interaction, optimize business processes, and introduce new control and automation tools.
Advantages of BIM for Architects, Engineers, and Construction Professionals
The low interest of construction companies in BIM tools is a mistake, and the AEC industry has already made such a mistake. Let’s remember how BIM technology conquered design: “Switching to BIM is expensive,” “difficult training, you need to change business processes,” “This approach is more complex and longer than the traditional one,” “It’s just a 3D picture,” and much more. Project companies could have worked “as before” for many more years, using familiar approaches and well-established business processes and providing clients with high-quality products.
However, most design companies already use BIM technologies in their work today or have cooperation with partners who implement their design solutions in 3D. Of course, the quality of the use of technology in each case is different. Still, the fact remains that what the design sphere tried to devalue and stop just a few years ago is today a prerequisite in the design of any industrial facility.
Why did this happen? The design companies should have strived for such global changes.
Some design companies found in BIM an opportunity to conquer new markets and attract new clients, the opportunity to participate in more expensive and complex projects; others sought to improve the quality of design and increase their competitiveness in the market, and others were forced to start using BIM due to the threat of losing current clients and a rapid decline in the level of competition on the market.
BIM AEC industries did not need such global changes, but the ultimate beneficiary of this transformation is the product’s owner. It was the end customer who, year after year, stimulated transformation in the field of design, and this trend is likely to continue concerning construction organizations, so we are talking about the possibilities of BIM not only for AEC companies but also for the owner of the facility under construction.
What opportunities can information modeling provide for AEC companies and the end client?
Based on our experience in implementing the complex design of production facilities and performing designer supervision and control of architecture or engineering work, we have compiled a list of goals and benefits that a builder or owner most often seeks to achieve when using BIM technologies on a building site.
As-Built Laser Scanning
The fastest way to obtain up-to-date information about a constructed structure is to laser scan it. The scan results are used to confirm the scope of work completed, perform the installation according to the project requirements, show all actual deviations of load-bearing structures or installation of major equipment, make it possible to analyze vibrations of load-bearing structures or their changes during operation and save resources and time on creating as-built drawings.
The main difficulty of this process is that not only the already constructed object is subject to scanning, but also the intermediate stages of installation in those zones that will be inaccessible in the future. Some structures require using both ground scanners and flying drone scanners. Thus, the result of scanning is a vast array of data that needs to be stored, systematized, linked into a single coordinate system, and cleared of unnecessary objects.
As-Built BIM Model
Industrial buildings and structures regularly require reconstruction during operation. It can be simple work such as laying additional pipelines or more complex tasks regarding changing technological processes or the structure’s purpose.
The main advantage of having an up-to-date model of an existing structure is the ability to use it as initial data for designing reconstruction during operation. Updated information significantly increases the speed of the design process and coordination of decisions made, makes it possible to foresee and solve eventual difficulties during reconstruction, considerably reduces the number of additional changes, and speeds up building and installation works.
A BIM model created at the facility design stage may not be sufficient to use as initial data for subsequent reconstruction or creation of an operation model of a building. An as-built BIM model is created based on as-built drawings of a AEC company or laser scanning of a production structure and contains information about the geometry’s actual position in the coordinate system and may also contain basic technical details.
According to our practice, a BIM model at the design stage enables the design supervision team, which monitors compliance with the design requirements and the actual construction work performed and has extensive experience in working with the software to create or make an adaptation of an as-built BIM model. In some cases, this work is performed by engineers from an AEC organization.
Maintenance BIM Model
Suppose you have an update according to the actual construction results of the 3D model at the design stage. In that case, the question of using this information at the main stage of the life cycle of a structure (its operation) becomes apparent. Today, more and more ready-made applications are appearing that allow you to integrate the BIM model into the operating system of an enterprise. As a rule, these cloud solutions will enable you to connect any number of employees and transmit information to a tablet or any other device. At this stage, the information model is supplemented with data important for operating staff: technical characteristics of equipment and pipelines, description of production processes, safety precautions, commissioning dates and a detailed description of maintenance work, information about suppliers and service companies, technical documentation, and much more.
Of course, entering optional information directly into the BIM model is unnecessary. Currently, it is more like a symbiosis of a database and a BIM model, with which specialists from different departments work, including a process engineer, whose decisions at the design stage also include installation, dismantling, and operation of main equipment and components. The BIM model is one of the sources for filling the database and allows you to show clearly where the object is located.
Digital Twin
A Digital twin makes it possible to integrate the constructed facility into the standard operation system of the enterprise, monitor the operating conditions of buildings and equipment in real-time, manage operating costs, analyze and prevent possible emergencies, plan purchases more flexibly, and manage inventory.
The range of Digital twin capabilities directly depends on the specifics of production processes and is closely related to the previous stages of using BIM on a project site. But at the moment, creating a digital twin is a very complex process; its rules and requirements are just being developed. However, the digital twin can be simplified and divided into several stages, depending on the level of BIM integration into the enterprise operating system. This topic requires a broader overview, so we will not discuss it in detail now, but it is clear that the Digital Twin is the goal of the modification in the AEC industry.
Control of performed volumes of work and used materials
Nowadays, more and more clients want confirmation of the performed scope of work employing a 3D model; thus, the use of materials becomes more transparent, and the process of completing work is visually apparent.
BIM Collaboration
Complex industrial structures involve close interaction between designers, builders, and customers in all project implementation stages.
Modern information management solutions based on BIM models are a comprehensive set of tools that help systematize the data exchange process and reduce eventual errors due to the use of unconfirmed or outdated documents, ensure typification of made solutions, simplify interaction processes between companies and various departments, identify and record problems or errors before solution implementations as well as record the results of the solutions, carry out and eliminate collisions before the start of construction and installation works, improve planning and overall control over the project implementation process. Access to the cloud also allows all project participants to use up-to-date information on all types of mobile devices at any time.
At the same time, the available variety of cloud solutions makes it possible to choose the optimal one for your project, depending on its complexity, the number of specialists involved, the software used, and the required functionality.
Model-Based Cost Estimation
Performing cost estimates at early planning stages allows for more efficient construction cost estimates. Integrating cost estimation based on BIM models (5D BIM) made it possible to automate the labor-intensive task of quantifying and applying costs, ensure the use of up-to-date project data, identify potential risks at earlier stages, and provide more information for optimal decisions.
Preconstruction Project Visualization
The use of construction process visualization (4D BIM) provides the possibility of checking made decisions and finding errors or opportunities for optimization before expensive machinery, equipment, and personnel enter the construction site. Preliminary visualization of construction is especially relevant in the existing production conditions, in which there may be restrictions associated with the delivery and operation of AEC equipment, the need for temporary transfer of technological processes, linking the process with logistics planning, and temporary storage of materials. Implementation of a 4D model requires minimal costs, provided that an information model is created at the design stage. At the same time, the value obtained in optimizing solutions allows you to make significant savings.
Visual risk analysis and safety assessment can help improve safety in the project implementation process.
Improved Coordination
Implementing large and complex projects inevitably requires all participants to adhere to extremely tight deadlines for completing work. Increasing the number of personnel involved in performing work partially helps achieve these goals but, at the same time, can lead to an increase in the number of design errors, collisions, and inconsistencies in decisions. BIM technology allows you to standardize processes, use tools for automated control and verification of made decisions, and quickly and effectively coordinate solutions of different subcontractors, thereby eliminating the transfer of errors directly to the construction site. Of course, coordination is primarily a task for a designer. Still, it allows the AEC company to study the design project quickly, determine optimal installation sequence, carry out standard checks, and ensure there are no conflicts or check its solutions before installation if changes are needed directly on the construction site.
By eliminating errors before the construction starts, you save money and do not waste valuable time correcting the work performed.
Challenges of Implementing BIM Workflows
Implementing BIM workflows presents a unique set of challenges within the AEC industry. Despite the clear advantages and understanding of why BIM is needed in the AEC industry, such as enhanced collaboration, improved efficiency, and better project outcomes, the transition to BIM can take time and effort.
Firstly, the initial cost and investment in technology can be significant. Upgrading software, hardware, and training staff requires substantial financial resources, which can deter firms from leaping. Additionally, the complexity of BIM software necessitates comprehensive training and a shift in mindset from traditional methods to digital construction modeling, which can be time-consuming and require ongoing education.
Another challenge is the interoperability between different BIM software stakeholders used in a project. Ensuring seamless data exchange and communication between architects, engineers, contractors, and clients is crucial for the success of BIM workflows. Still, it can be challenging to achieve in practice due to various BIM tools and standards.
Moreover, the cultural shift within organizations towards collaborative work practices that BIM encourages requires changing long-established workflows and breaking down silos between disciplines. This cultural transformation can be as challenging as the technical aspects of BIM implementation.
Lastly, data management and security concerns arise with BIM adoption. The vast amount of digital information generated and shared across the BIM process must be securely managed and protected from cyber threats, adding another layer of complexity to BIM implementation.Despite these challenges, the benefits of BIM in the construction industry are undeniable. Overcoming these hurdles is essential for firms looking to stay competitive and meet the increasingly complex demands of modern projects. As the industry evolves, finding solutions to these challenges will pave the way for wider BIM adoption, ultimately leading to more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective construction practices.
The Future of BIM in the AEC Industry
Technology breakthroughs are expected to propel the revolutionary rise of BIM application in the AEC sector and a shift towards more integrated, sustainable, and efficient construction practices. Here’s a glimpse into the evolving landscape of BIM in the AEC sector:
- Integration of BIM with Emerging Technologies: This is how BIM helps AEC with artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and ML (machine learning) is set to enhance the capabilities of BIM, offering more intelligent and automated solutions for design, construction, and facility management. This integration will enable predictive analytics for maintenance, energy optimization, and enhanced project management, making buildings more intelligent and responsive to occupants’ needs.
- Cloud-Based Collaboration: Cloud technology is revolutionizing BIM by facilitating seamless collaboration among stakeholders across the globe. Cloud-based BIM platforms allow for real-time sharing and updating of BIM models, ensuring all parties have access to the latest data, reducing errors, saving time, and improving project outcomes.
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Utilizing VR and AR in conjunction with BIM models enhances visualization, planning, and communication processes. Stakeholders can now immerse themselves in fully interactive 3D models, enabling better understanding, engagement, and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
- Sustainability and Green Building: BIM is crucial in promoting sustainability in the AEC industry by allowing the construction and design of energy-efficient buildings with lower carbon footprints. Through detailed simulations and analyses, BIM facilitates the optimization of materials, energy use, and waste management, contributing to the global push towards green building standards.
- Digital Twins: The theory of digital twins is gaining momentum, with BIM models serving as the foundation for creating digital replicas of physical buildings. These digital twins allow for real-time monitoring, analysis, and simulation of building performance, offering valuable insights for maintenance, energy management, and lifecycle assessments.
- Increased Adoption and Standardization: As the benefits of BIM become more widely recognized, its adoption is expanding globally. Governments and industry bodies are pushing for standardization in BIM processes and protocols to ensure consistency, interoperability, and quality across projects.
- Education and Training: The demand for skilled BIM professionals is growing, leading to an expansion in BIM education and training programs. Universities, colleges, and industry organizations are developing specialized courses to equip the next generation of AEC professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a BIM-centric industry.
Conclusion
Summing up, we would like to emphasize the following:
To make the benefits of using BIM efficient, convenient, and fast, all project participants must have sufficient high qualifications, and the rules and processes of working on the project must be standardized and coordinated by all project participants.
The AEC industry is more conservative than the engineering industry, but its transformation is inevitable. The only question is how good the BIM integration will be in a particular construction company.
However, M HEAVY TECHNOLOGY and its Customers actively use the advantages of BIM design for daily monitoring of the timing and quality of installation work when implementing large investment projects in metallurgy at present because even one day of downtime of a metallurgical unit like a blast furnace can result in significant losses of the enterprise. The main tools for such control are 4D POS (construction management plan) and daily scanning of completed installation works, followed by overlaying the resulting point cloud on the design model and calculating the actual volume of installation works performed (how many tons of metal, concrete, pipelines, and equipment were used on that day.). 4D POS is a visualization of the construction work schedule, indicating the amount of installed equipment and used materials in a specific period, human resources to be involved, money supplies to be spent, etc. 4D POS allows monitoring of the installation work schedule daily and even hourly.
Author of the article: Oleg Puzanov
