The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is gaining ground in the architecture and building industry. The technology allows for the rapid creation of 3D models of buildings and infrastructure, which facilitates the collaboration of diverse disciplines and improves work efficiency and quality. It is also used in the development of advanced building technology, such as virtual reality (VR).
The integrated concept of BIM is an advantage for architects, as it streamlines collaboration and allows for valuable input from all team members. The digital nature of BIM allows for accurate collaboration among all stakeholders and is often created with tools that enable version control. Because it is digital, it is easier to share and modify designs over time as more information is gained. BIM also fosters a holistic design view. The benefits of BIM in architecture design are numerous.
Although BIM is only becoming popular, its benefits are not yet widely known. In the UK, the concept of BIM dates back to the 1970s and became a common term in the early 2000s. Different countries have adopted BIM at different speeds. The UK has developed standards that eventually formed the ISO 19650 standard, which was launched in January 2019. Despite the challenges associated with BIM implementation, the benefits can’t be ignored. Increasing efficiency is one of its greatest benefits.
With the increasing importance of BIM in the AEC sector, many Nigerian companies are starting to use it. In addition to fostering collaboration, BIM may also facilitate standardization across the industry. Expert suggests that BIM could be used to help build generic building objects, which are designed for efficient design and streamlined construction. The study also assessed the adoption of BIM in the Nigerian construction industry. It found that medium and large firms were at the forefront of BIM adoption, while small firms were far behind in adopting the software.
Computer-aided Design in Architecture
CAD stands for computer-aided design. This technology is used to make higher-quality designs. Architects can use CAD to create 3-dimensional models. In contrast, 3D BIM Modeling uses digital data to represent building design elements. It is more efficient than pencil and paper and records information in mathematical equations. For example, a computer program will keep track of the length of walls and the width of windows in a building. The CAD software used in BIM has made the process of designing buildings far faster than the pencil and paper-based methods.
CAD-based applications have become increasingly important in the AEC industry. Autodesk is a global leader in BIM and is committed to helping businesses use the technology to achieve better outcomes. Building Information Modeling helps architects create better designs by enabling seamless collaboration. It is an innovative process that leverages the power of cloud computing. It enables multidisciplinary data and models to be easily shared, and it also combines 3D and 2D designs into one digital model.
The building information model was created during the early design phase, and it was used to evaluate different skin options and daylight studies. These studies helped determine the final location of the building on the site. Sun positioning was also a critical tool that helped architects determine the views of the facility. The shading and lighting studies were also conducted to determine how much sunlight affects neighboring buildings and what impact they have on the building’s interior and exterior. This information allows architects to make more accurate plans and ensure the highest quality construction.
Benefits of BIM for Project Management
By using BIM to manage projects, architects can create more environmentally friendly buildings. BIM helps architects analyze energy, materials, and technological insights. During the design process, the 3D model allows them to test ventilation and lighting. They can also determine phases and sequences for the construction process. This type of modeling also makes it easier to review and modify designs to meet sustainable objectives. Here are some benefits of using BIM for sustainable architectural design:
The BIM workflow has made collaboration between design and construction more efficient. Designers can use BIM to consider the life cycle of a building, instead of relying on traditional design methods. With BIM, all stakeholders can understand the project on one platform, and the integrated workflows support multi-discipline coordination and construction documentation. In addition to the benefits of integrated workflows, architects can enrich their BIM model in real-time, adding complex elements and calculating quantities.
BIM tools help a building owner manage all of the aspects of the project, from planning to construction. Using BIM allows architects to create a model that can be used for many projects. Using BIM, a building design can serve as a blueprint for construction as well as demolition. Demolition contractors can also use a BIM model for guidance. With BIM, architects can ensure that their design meets sustainable design goals, ensuring that the building will be environmentally friendly for years to come.
Another benefit of BIM in Architecture is the ease of analysis and comparison of different design options. Building performance is an important aspect of sustainable design. Conventional CAD solutions often require human intervention, interpretation, and analysis. With BIM, the evaluation is automated and faster. BIM also facilitates better documentation and decision-making. In addition, BIM provides the necessary information to make informed decisions on sustainability. It can also help architects achieve these goals and reduce costs.
In addition to helping architects and designers plan more environmentally friendly buildings, BIM tools can also integrate energy analysis tools. Tools like Autodesk Analysis, which enables energy analyses, make it easier to achieve carbon neutrality earlier in the design process. Ultimately, sustainable architecture is an essential component of standard building design practices and is a crucial aspect in mitigating a building’s carbon footprint. For these reasons, using BIM software in the design process is a good way to get started.
In addition to BIM software, the BIM environment model allows designers to verify whether the design features they’ve chosen are energy-efficient. The software also allows them to make changes to design elements that compromise energy performance. By using BIM in the design process, designers can avoid such changes. The process of construction is only the beginning of the process. After all, the real-world operation of the building may change the design of features, compromising energy performance.
Building-information-modeling software also allows mechanical engineers to make smart decisions about how to use energy. By using the BIM model, they can create models with the energy requirements for various parts of the building. For example, with a building that requires HVAC, an engineer can alter the R-values of different walls to determine the building’s energy efficiency. With BIM software, engineers can also estimate the performance of the building using Autodesk Insight.
