Building Information Modelling (BIM)

The main purpose of BIM is to create and manage data during the design, construction, and operation of a building or asset. It enables effective collaboration between architects, engineers, real estate developers, contractors, manufacturers, and other construction professionals within a 3D virtual model.

WHAT IS BIM?

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the holistic process used to plan, manage and deliver major construction projects using digital engineering. A digital representation of every aspect of the built asset is developed using appropriate software and technology. The effective planning of a project can greatly reduce unproductive time and waste materials resulting in faster project delivery and cost savings for the client or end user. BIM is also sometimes referred to as Information Management (IM).

It’s important to have the necessary documented processes and procedures in place, along with allocated roles and responsibilities. This ensures that all members of the design team are aware of what they need to do, when it must be done and who is responsible for completing the task. The level of organisation your company can achieve through BIM enhances the design team’s performance allowing the overall team to collaborate more effectively.

WHAT BIM ISN’T?

BIM is not just 3D modelling; it is a process that can in many cases utilise 3D models as a core element within its adoption. BIM is not a piece of software such as Revit, ArchiCAD, Revizto, etc. These software programmes, and many others, have a part to play in the BIM process. They can be used standalone, or in workflows which link the various software programmes. They can help your business align with the requirements of the UK BIM Framework and ISO 19650 suite of standards to bring efficiencies to the design, construction, operation and demolition/decommissioning of built assets.

WHAT IS BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING?

Building information modelling involves using a multi-disciplinary 3D virtual model to coordinate the design and interfacing of different project disciplines before construction even begins on site. The model acts as one single source of truth used to avoid conflicting information. The sole purpose of BIM is to resolve inefficiencies that have existed in the construction industry for many years.

The 3D models produced contain 3D geometry and are rich in data that you can use to inform decisions during the construction stage of the project. As the project develops more data is added to produce a digital virtual twin containing facilities management information that can be used for operation of the building on final handover.

3D models from each discipline can be assembled into a master federated model. This model is used as a visual tool to review the engineered solutions for compliance with the exchange information requirements (EIR). Besides visual inspection, digital tools allow the model to be analysed using rule-based software for clash detection and to identify areas of the model that are non-compliant with the project scope. The ability to interrogate models in this manner allows potential issues to be raised.

Each discipline regularly uploads revised models to a cloud-based Common Data Environment (CDE) at times agreed in the project’s BIM Execution Plan (BEP), this allows the design to develop in line with latest information and mitigates risk when commencing work on site.

THE BIM DIMENSIONS

BIM dimensions enable you to understand better your construction project by enhancing the data. The BIM dimensions include:

4D - Timeline Analysis enables the construction time sequence to be simulated to optimise the installation.

5D - Cost Analysis allows for material take-off and budget cost analysis to take place ensuring the project proceeds within budget.

6D - Sustainable Design tools enable the proposed design to be simulated in a virtual environment to ensure the most efficient design has been produced for the facility.

7D - Facilities Management Data can be reviewed to ensure that proposed equipment meets with client approval and that all equipment has been included.

DIGITAL TWINS

Many people see a 3D model as a Digital Twin but to be a true representation the physical asset and virtual model need to be linked through sensors or the building management system (BMS). Historical data from another asset can also be used as the Digital Twin if such information exists.

The Gemini Principles from the Centre for Digital Built Britain explain the requirements of a Digital Twin.

HOW CAN BIM BENEFIT YOUR BUSINESS?

The introduction of BIM has not only introduced a suite of digital engineering tools to enhance productivity but also highlighted traditional in-efficiencies in the construction industry. BIM has allowed us to address these issues and develop solutions to provide a smarter built environment ensuring that planning, design and construction are correctly managed in a transparent and efficient way. Another benefit is an increase in economic value for the stakeholder.

BIM is an essential pillar for reaching future goals of smart design and sustainability, raising living standards, higher labour productivity and prime energy efficiency on a global level. BIM construction management can prove advantageous for your business through:

Saving time and money – by tracking integrated 4D (time) and 5D (cost) information, the BIM model acts as a real-time, reliable and transparent project management tool.

Raising sustainability and operating standards – by simulating energy consumption or establishing dynamic in-house flows before physical assets are in place, thus allowing for operation phase-oriented building design.

Increased collaboration and productivity – by integrating and connecting all project design disciplines into one model ensures compatibility of all trades reducing abortive time and cost.

WHY CHOOSE OUR BIM & DIGITAL SERVICES FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

At TÜV SÜD, we understand that all projects are bespoke, and each client has their own specific requirements. We offer support and advice to implement best practices and will tailor our BIM services to suit your individual needs.

We take data confidentiality seriously; your data is as important to us as it is to you. For this reason, TÜV SÜD are Cyber Essentials Plus Accredited.

TÜV SÜD have representatives at high level within the UK BIM Alliance, and ISO 19650 Guidance Review Committee. They are also involved in the Golden Thread Initiative to maintain a digital record of building safety information throughout the entire lifecycle.

Involvement in these working groups means we can advise you on upcoming standards, processes and workflows to give you a competitive advantage in your own markets.