BIM

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the process of generating and managing building data during its life cycle. Typically it uses three-dimensional, real-time, dynamic building modeling software to increase productivity in building design and construction. The process produces the Building Information Model (also abbreviated BIM).

Building information modeling covers geometry, spatial relationships, geographic information, quantities and properties of building components (for example manufacturers' details). BIM can be used to demonstrate the entire building life cycle including the processes of construction and facility operation. Quantities and shared properties of materials can easily be extracted. Scopes of work can be isolated and defined. Systems, assemblies, and sequences are able to be shown in a relative scale with the entire facility or group of facilities.

BIM is able to achieve such improvements by modeling representations of the actual parts and pieces being used to build a building. This is a substantial shift from the traditional computer aided design method of drawing with vector file based lines that combine to represent objects.

The interoperability requirements of construction documents include the drawings, procurement details, environmental conditions, submittal processes and other specifications for building quality. It is anticipated by proponents that BIM can be utilized to bridge the information loss associated with handing a project from design team, to construction team and to building owner/operator, by allowing each group to add to and reference back to all information they acquire during their period of contribution the BIM model. For example, a building owner may find evidence of a leak in his building. Rather than exploring the physical building, he may turn to his BIM and see that a water valve is located in the suspect location. He could also have in the model the specific valve size, manufacturer, part number, and any other information ever researched in the past, pending adequate computing power.

The American Institute of Architects has further defined BIM as "a model-based technology linked with a database of project information”, and this reflects the general reliance on database technology as the foundation. In the future, structured text documents such as specification may be able to be searched and linked to regional, national, and international standards.

BIM is currently employed by professionals on all building types from the simplest warehouse to many of the most complex new buildings, BIM design method is currently young in its development.

BIM provides the potential for a virtual information model to be handed from Design Team to Contractor and Subcontractors and then to the Owner, each adding their own additional discipline-specific knowledge and tracking of changes to the single model. The result greatly reduces the information loss that occurs when a new team takes "ownership" of the project as well as in delivering extensive information to owners of complex structures far beyond that which they are currently accustomed to having.

BIM can greatly decrease errors made by design team members as well as the construction team (Contractors and Subcontractors) by allowing the use of conflict detection where the computer actually informs team members about parts of the building in conflict or clashing, and through detailed computer visualization of each part in relation to the total building. As computers and software become more capable of handling more building information, this will become even more pronounced than it is in current design and construction projects. This error reduction is a great part of cost savings realized by all members of a project. Reduction in time required to complete construction directly contributes to the cost savings numbers as well. It's important to realize that this decrease can only be accomplished if the models are sufficiently developed in the Design Development phase.

BIM offers:

Improved Visualization
Improved Productivity Due To Easy Retrieval Of Information
Increased Coordination Of Construction Documents
Embedding And Linking Of Vital Information Such As Vendors For Specific Materials, Location Of Details And Quantities Required For Estimation And Tendering
Increased Speed Of Delivery
Reduced Costs

At MEPCor We Offer

Design Visualization - 3D, 4D modeling
Design Analysis
Detail Drawings
Clash Detection
Web - Based Project Collaborations
Building Performance Analysis
Energy Analysis
Design Management
Project Management
Cost Management

JOSEPH L BINNING
Certified Auto Cad Expert

"I wish to inform you of the distinct pleasure I have had working with Joe Binning on multiple projects utilizing his construction background, design layout insights, and MEP Coordination skills. His knowledge base, expertise, and ability to pay attention to detail have laid the foundation for successful end results on our projects. I recommend Joe Binning and his services to anyone constructing a project – I am certain a cost savings will be realized."
—Michael A. Rizza, PE

"I have worked with Joe Binning on various projects utilizing his MEP coordination and construction design skills and can attest to his knowledge and ability to pay attention to detail. Joe’s diligence and thoroughness in resolving potential conflicts and constructability problems have been helpful to me as a design engineer, and overall have contributed to the success of the projects. I would not hesitate to recommend his services."
—Dale M. Franchak, P.E.