The official definition of Construction Information (BIM)
Building information modeling is the digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility that creates a shared knowledge resource for information about the facility and provides a reliable basis for decisions throughout its life cycle, from conception earliest until demolition.
The management of all information, in its entirety, related to the phases of the life cycle of a building, from its design, functionality to post-occupancy maintenance, can be supported by a single common technological environment.
This concept is the basis of building information modeling (BIM) technology.
Building life cycle in BIM
BIM is an integrated workflow, built from coordinated and reliable information about the project, from design, to construction and operations.
- Planning
- Conceptual design
- Detail design
- Analysis
- Documentation
- Manufacturing
- 3D/4D and 5D construction
- Construction logistics
- Operation and Maintenance
- Demolition / Renovation
Features and Benefits of BIM Modeling
- Modeling is not a drawing or a draft
Increases precision and efficiency in design, construction and operation processes.
- Object-based modeling
Database of high-value objects and properties of buildings and computability: cost estimation, energy consumption, etc.
- 3d modeling
Design visualization and options: fast, interactive, different design phases
- Parametric Modeling Engine
Design intent and options: fast, interactive, different design phases
Benefits of BIM
75% of companies that have adopted BIM have reported a positive return on their investment with shorter project life cycles and savings in paperwork and material costs.
A.- Coordination and collaboration
B.- Conflict detection and risk mitigation
C.- High level of customization and flexibility
D.- Optimization of programming and cost
E.- Easy maintenance of the building's life cycle
BIM maturity levels
The iBIM model maturity model (the name of its highest level) was developed by Mark Bew and Mervyn Richards in 2008.
Level 0
The range of levels that this form of modeling can take is known as “maturity levels” and is described in the following examples:
1.- Level 0 BIM
Unmanaged computer-aided design (CAD) that includes 2D drawings and text with paper or electronic information exchange, but without common standards or processes. Essentially it is a digital drawing board.
2.- Level 1 BIM
2D and 3D models. In this case a common data environment (CDE) is used
A CDE is a shared online repository where all project data is collected and managed.
At level 1 of the BNIM it focuses on the transition from CAD information to 2D and 3D
3.- Level 2 BIM
This is a 3D environment with attached data, but created in models separated by discipline. These different models are assembled to form a consolidated model, but they do not lose their identity or integrity. Data may include information on 4D construction sequence and 5D cost
4.- Level 3 BIM
A single online collaborative project model with information on 4D construction sequence, and 5D cost and 6D project life cycle. It is sometimes called “iBIM” or Integrated BIM and aims to achieve better business results.