Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Week 3 - B2: Chapter 6 -- BIM for Contractors

Chapter 6: BIM for Contractors
This chapter discussed how contractors could be integrated into the design project to eliminate the typical conflicts that arise during the construction process. Currently there is no BIM software that can deliver all of the project requirements necessary for successful implementation. A basic set of guidelines for these are detailed building information, temporary components, specification information associated with each building component, analysis data related to performance levels and project requirements, and design and construction status. Currently there is no single platform that can integrate all of these requirements. Therefore different programs should reflect a level of interoperability -- or compatibility amongst different BIM tools. This will allow for a single master model to be created that could be updated in real time to reflect change orders or identify complex project conflicts.

A new term that has developed in describing these different BIM models is the 4D model, which is essentially a 3D model that contains relevant data about different building components in a schedule form. This is essentially a "smart" 3D model that not only is visually representative of the building but also takes into account different parameters, such as: material and structural behavior, HVAC sizing and envelope analysis, etc. These models represent the newest innovation in integrating multiple project aspects into one overall design that is more fully representative of the proposal.


As Justin Hileman had mentioned, section 6.4 is quite interesting as it identifies processes for converting traditional 2D models into 3D/BIM models. This is a very imperative task for modernizing existing projects and future ones. Essentially through different processes the 2D plans and representations can be converted to a full 3D model with which different BIM models can be based off of. Also projects consisting of 3D and 2D work can also be updated to BIM as well through a similar process that will make use of the existing 3D work.

Angelina Castro brought up another good point about how contractors -- who seemingly would not stand to benefit from BIM -- can greatly increase the efficiency of a project in multiple areas. She mentioned that these areas include topics from quantity take-off, cost estimating, construction planning, schedule, off-site fabrication, and many other management functions.

Hang Wang brought up the point that implementing BIM models with greater levels of resolution in terms of model data can allow for conflict remediation between subcontractors and different entities that do not normally interact. This lack of communication is not necessarily intended however there is normally not a platform or meeting time for these different subcontractors to meet with other project entities -- like architects, engineers or the client.

Reference:
Eastman, C. M. (2011). BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers and Contractors. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

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