Chapter 2 introduces BIM technology which was created in the
1980s specifically to aid in manufacturing. The new BIM technology allows users
to combine 2D sections with 3D models. Yet, only the objects from the 3D model
are included in the analysis and the bill of materials. In the future it may
prove to be important to include 2D modeling in the analysis as well. Initially
there were two different types, B-rep and CSG. It became apparent that the two
methods should be combined. The B-rep model was utilized for interaction and
display and CSG model was used for editing. Materials were then integrated into
the software to make it easier to calculate loads, material takeoffs and
structural analysis. Assembly operations were an important development in 3D
modeling software and made modeling more convenient.
In my experience of using BIM technology, the integration of
materials and assembly operations has proved to be very useful. Rather than
fully creating every piece of a structure such as doors and windows, the
assemblies have preloaded versions that can be dropped onto the structure.
There are also a large number of assemblies for furniture and other additional
add-ins that makes the software much more user friendly .The implementation of
materials into BIM software was also a very important innovation due to the
fact that it aided in structural analysis. I have used this feature within many
different technology systems and it is useful in many applications as suggested
in the textbook but one in particular that I have found this new feature to be
extremely helpful was load analysis. In calculating the loads and loading paths
of structures, the building material is very important. The fact that these
programs allow the user to incorporate the building materials is phenomenal.
It is interesting to note the extensive progress that BIM
software has made since it was created. Current BIM software can now account for
other systems within the building such as HVAC. This new feature allows
engineers to integrate all systems of the building. In doing so, they can be
sure that the systems do not interfere with each other and can trouble shoot
any issues that may occur due to clashing of the systems.
References:
Eastman, C. M. (2011). BIM Handbook : A Guide to Building Information Modeling for
Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers and Contractors. Hoboken, NJ:
Wiley.
Comments:
Laura,
ReplyDeleteI read a different chapter of the BIM book than you did, so it was interesting to learn about how BIM technology aids in manufacturing materials. I completely agree 3D modeling capabilities that allow for materials to be placed into the design are great achievements, since this helps not only the designers but the engineers and fabricators involved with the project as well. Having specific materials designated in the initial stages of the project allows for easier collaboration for the remaining stages. Also, since I am very interested in structural analysis of buildings, I understand the importance of having material designations for proper load analyses like you mentioned.
Hi Laura! I'm actually surprised that 2D drawn sections aren't already included in the analysis and bill of materials. Many designers start out with 2D drawings before starting on the creation of the 3D model. If there is a mistake in the 3D model that originated from a 2D drawing, it will be hard to track down exactly where the error was made because the 2D drawing was excluded from the analysis and bill of materials. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI have never used BIM for structural analysis, but I can imagine that it could be very useful as you discussed, especially with the use of materials in the structural design. My co-ops were at structural engineering firms that only use structural design programs where we need to create our own models based on the architectural. In the future, I can see the architects using these models in a way that the materials and structural members, such as beams, slabs, columns, and walls, can be exported to structural programs to be designed by the structural engineer and re-imported into the original model once the design is complete to ensure the design is compatible with the other building systems and architectural features.
ReplyDeleteI agree the ability to simulate the load path throughout a building and incorporate the materials is incredible and seems like it would be crucial in making quick little adjustments in a building to see if certain designs are feasible. I personally have never used BIM modeling in a professional setting but it is good to hear from someone with experience that it is useful.
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