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Robert J. Schmitz RA
Associate and Senior Architect
"BIM" or Building Information Modeling is being touted as the next logical step in data production. Times are changing and the way we do business is changing. CAD has been around now for many years, and the computer terminal has become as much a part of our workspace as the drawing board ever was. The industry is finding that CAD has become about as efficient as it can be, and we must now harness the power of the computer for a real value–added design process that does more than just mimic drafting. While BIM may seem like an optional technology at the moment, it will not stay that way for long. Some clients are beginning to ask for deliverables in BIM already.
So what is BIM? The core of BIM is managing information. While the term "Modeling" is often used in the BIM acronym, perhaps "Building Information Management" is a better term. BIM models and manages not just graphics, but also information. The managing of this information allows for automatic generation of drawings and reports, design analysis, schedule simulation, facilities management, and more.
BIM is more concerned with coordinating information from several sources to allow the right information to be accessed at the appropriate time throughout the building lifecycle – ultimately enabling the building team to make more informed decisions.
KZF uses the Microstation based Bentley Building Products software, focusing on building systems coordination using the integration capabilities of Bentley Architecture with Bentley Structural, Mechanical, and Electrical Systems.
BIM in the conceptual design phase can be used for exploring different massing options, deriving the floor areas to verify them against program requirements, and coordinating between the interior and exterior aspects of the design. Information between disciplines can be exchanged quickly through referencing files to
each other.
During the construction document phase, a "virtual building" is created where Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, and Electrical systems all come together. All model files from each discipline can be referenced into a single composite model file. This integrated approach helps detect interferences between systems and reduce costly construction conflicts. The same composite model can be used for generating interior and exterior renderings, 2D extractions for the construction drawings, and for generating reports and schedules.
BIM provides a great opportunity for us to extend additional service to our clients beyond the design and construction phases of a project and assist them in the facilities management, operations, and maintenance of their building.
Currently, designs are conceived in 3D, documented in a 2D format, and then constructed in a 3D world as interpreted from the 2D drawings. While BIM enhances this process today, the ultimate goal of BIM is to eliminate the translation process from 3D to 2D and back to 3D again. Our clients can understand design concepts more readily since they are now looking at 3D models that are easy to comprehend. The model evolves with the development of the design from the conceptual stage through completion of the project.
Building Information Modeling is revolutionizing the way the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction industry is delivering its services. BIM concepts are clearly creating a challenging environment where we are adapting to a new way of thinking and working. KZF understands the emergence of BIM’s role in the design, documentation, and presentation of information and we look forward to assisting you on your next project.
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