B3 Group D - Danielle Beynon

Last week’s blog post focused on BIM as a whole, introducing numerous techniques and applications. This week, the main focus is on the many advantages that BIM software has to offer. As construction of numerous types of buildings and structures continues into the future, BIM is progressing at a fast pace, and many companies in this industry have adopted this modeling approach after becoming aware of all the positive aspects that come with it.

There are a significant number of advantages that come with any type of BIM software. At the beginning of a project, BIM can provide aerial images and digital elevations showing existing conditions and/or infrastructure at the site which gives the designer an initial understanding of what is found there [1]. Huw, the guest speaker in class on Tuesday, described a new flight device that captures thousands of pictures of an area in a short period of time with incredible accuracy; data from this type of device can be implemented in BIM software in an efficient manner. Another positive aspect is that a model can be shared among all disciplines involved, so there is no need for duplicating drawings or reworking parts of the design. The shared model and specific functions within the software result in easy collaboration and integration of various systems; clash detection is built in so that designers can recognize any issues at early stages of the project. Also, autosave and project history connections in BIM systems allow for smoother workflow. Simulation tools are advantageous because they aid in visualization and can provide analysis information to reveal peak performances for the proposed structure [1].

Mitch Boryslawski, co-founder of EcoDomus, Inc., describes BIM in a positive way: “The use of BIM results in data-rich as-built models that contain a wealth of information for smarter building operations.” It has been proven that many companies have seen positive returns on investment of BIM programs, such as increased efficiency, productivity, and quality [2]. Before a building is constructed, all parties involved have can gain a plethora of knowledge about the physical and functional aspects of the structure from the model with specific details about proportions, materials, etc. Not only that, but the model is easily accessible on almost any device.

Revit, a specific BIM program, possesses all of the advantages described above—and more. With Revit, an engineer can design in 3D, annotate in 2D, and access building information from the database [3]. I experienced these aspects when I used Revit during my last co-op; it was highly convenient to be able to construct a digital model and obtain plans, elevations, and sections within the same program. Also, Revit has 4D capabilities that include lifecycle analysis and material quantity calculations [3]. It is clear from this particular system that BIM is beneficial for design and construction, and this is only one of many BIM systems with the advantages already mentioned.

References:

[1] http://lineshapespace.com/building-information-modeling-top-10-benefits-of-bim/

[2] http://extreme.rs/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2011_realizing_bim_final.pdf

[3] http://www.fiedlergroup.com/architecture-engineering-services/advantages-of-revit-and-building-information-models-bim/

Comments:

1) http://ae-510-ay15-16.blogspot.com/2016/01/b3-group-b-cummings.html?showComment=1453566611252#c4189704468374662668

Bryan,

Your topic involved problems with BIM whereas my topic involved advantages of BIM, so it was insightful to learn about the “negatives” of using this type of design technology. I never realized how issues can arise regarding ownership of the models, but it makes sense since a project tends to focus on one model to which many individuals contribute. Before reading your post, I was already aware of the unwillingness of firms to adopt BIM software due to the uncertainty of adapting to change; however, people felt the same way when programs like AutoCAD were introduced to the drafting world. I agree with your statement that BIM technology will become more widely accepted over time, and hopefully the problems with ownership and inconsistency in material information can be addressed and resolved in a timely manner.

2) http://ae-510-ay15-16.blogspot.com/2016/01/b3-group-d-kate-flint.html

Kate,

I was very impressed with the aerial drone that Huw discussed last class for the reasons that you mentioned; this time-saving technique can do nothing but aid in the design-build process. I think that James’ line of thinking about drones being created for Quality Assurance is practical and with technological advances in the BIM field, I believe that anything is possible. Before reading your post, I was aware that BIM software has become more widespread in America, but I did not realize that it has increased so significantly in the past 5 years. I agree that BIM does have some aspects with room for improvement, but its current advantages make it a worthwhile investment. Why else would designers, engineers, fabricators, and construction workers adopt this system as a means for project integration?