Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a new way of approaching the design and documentation of various types of building projects. It is an intelligent digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility. Two useful features of BIM in relation to sustainable design are integrated project delivery (IPD) features and design optimization. By using BIM method, designers can effectively optimize the design of the building in the early stages of the project and provide better solutions.

The BIM method seeks to adapt several layers of available information that enable data exchange and communication between all project stakeholders. There are many design layers required in modern projects, including structural systems, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, power supply, lighting, equipment, and etc. The number of layers and the complexity of the connections between them require an integrated design approach. An integrated design model allows us to analyze the structural system, building performance, energy consumption and etc.

As one of the first providers of consulting services and design of healthcare facilities, in order to keep up with modern design approach, Gorouh-E-Chahar Consulting Engineers use BIM technique as a new method in the whole life cycle of a project. By focusing on preserving employers interests, needs of contractors and achieving optimal design in case of performance and aesthetics point of view and with the aim of managing construction information, we use BIM method from the initial stage (feasibility study) to the operation and finally demolition of structure. By cooperation with different teams of specialist in fields of Construction Management, Architecture, Interior design, Civil / Structure, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Biomedical Engineering and by using the latest software available in international markets, we are able to create 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D and 7D models base on Client needs and BIM execution plan which will help the whole team to optimize time and costs of the project.

The organization chart for BIM Group in GOROUH-E-CHAHAR Consulting Engineers is as follow:

Services that can be provided by GOROUH-E-CHAHAR Consulting Engineers in the field of BIM:

3D BIM Modeling – Visualization

GEOMETRY – 3D BIM is the most common type of BIM model and shows three geographical dimensions (x,y,z) of a structure. This type of model helps stakeholders visualize a structure before the project is started. It gives architecture, engineering, and construction teem the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure.

Clash Detection

Engineering design is a dynamic field that requires effective coordination between several stakeholders for desired results. Architects, Structural engineers, MEP engineers (HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing) and other professionals create design models, independent from each other. Once all the models are integrated into the BIM modeling process, clash detection comes into the picture. Clash detection process identifies where the independent models clash with each other- finding where elements from one model overlap the elements of models from other architect-engineering design disciplines. Clash detection ensures every aspect works hand-in-hand and nothing is incompatible. Using advanced-stage computer-aided 3D modeling, the instances of last-minute hurdles due to inconsistencies in different models are eliminated. As all the things are taken care of during the design stage itself, clash detection saves valuable time, effort and money throughout the entire BIM Execution Plan during a construction project.

Quantity take-offs and Cost estimation

Based on the LOD of the BIM model a list of approximate volume and quantity ​of items in all disciplines can be obtained with more accuracy comparing to 2-D drawings which will help the client to better understand the required budget and better plan the cash flow for the project.

4D BIM – Planning, Scheduling and Sequencing

TIME – The 4th dimension in a BIM model shows the duration of a project. The inclusion of a timeline and scheduling information in the BIM model helps show how the project will evolve over time. This visualization of this information is extremely helpful in early-stage conflict detection. Using a 4D model will help improve site planning and scheduling optimization. It will also increase the preparedness of stakeholders by better communicating the next steps during every stage of construction.

5D BIM – Cost Estimation, Analysis, and Budgetary Tracking

MONEY – 5D BIM helps visualize budget analysis and cost estimation for a project. It will help the stakeholders to analyze the predicted and actual costs of a project over time with real-time notifications of cost overrun.

6D BIM – Sustainability and Energy Analysis

SUSTAINABILITY – 6D BIM is used to make a structure self-sustainable & energy efficient. helps to analyze the energy consumption of a building and come out with energy estimates at initial design stages. Accounting for various life stages of a structure, 6D BIM ensures accurate prediction of energy consumption requirements. 6D BIM technology takes the industry a step beyond the conventional approach that just focuses on the upfront costs associated with a project. This approach helps in getting an idea of the entire cost of an asset and how the money should be spent on achieving sustainability and cost-efficiency.

7D BIM – Facility Management and Maintenance

FACILITY MANAGEMENT – 7D BIM is all about operations and facility management by building managers and owners. The dimension is used to track important asset data such as its status, maintenance/operation manuals, warranty information, technical specifications, etc. to be used at a future stage. 7D BIM is a unique approach where everything related to the facility management process is collated at a single place within the building information model. Such a tactic helps in improving the quality of service delivery during the entire lifecycle of a project. Using 7D BIM ensures that everything in a project stays in its best shape from day 1 to the day of demolition of a structure.

 

The Value of BIM for owners

The benefits mentioned in the previous sections are in fact the benefits of this method for the whole project, which reduces the time and cost of construction, and these two items are in fact in the interests of the employer. In addition to the above, BIM has unique benefits for employers, the most important of which are as follows:

  • Reduce the financial risk associated with the project
  • Save significant time and cost and get superior quality work on site
  • Achieve predictable building performance with respect to sustainability
  • Obtain reliable and accurate cost estimates
  • Achieve greater return on investment with collaborative and integrated approach to project delivery
  • Enhance branding
  • Improve lifecycle management
  • Fewer claims/litigation

 

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