BIM is one of the most discussed technologies in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
Surprisingly, some new construction contractors and builders have little to no idea how to deploy the technology in their projects.
Hence, this article contains everything about BIM, including its meaning and functions. It focuses more on the BIM dimensions, especially the 4D, 5D, and 6D.
What Is BIM?
BIM is an acronym for Building Information Modeling. It is a technological process that involves representing a building's physical and functional attributes in a digital design or presentation.
Meanwhile, BIM is more than creating a 3D design or digital representation of a building project. It offers more benefits to the clients, contractors, architects, and every other person involved in the building process.
It ensures architects, contractors, and engineers can illustrate, analyze, and manage a construction project via 3D models.
It equally features the project's significant information, including duration, materials required, costs, etc.
With BIM, the building team can complete the project virtually and make the necessary corrections before replicating it physically.
BIM Dimensions
It all began with the 2D drawings in the late '50s. The computer-aided design strategy commences the transition from the famous paper-and-pencil method to digital visualization.
The transition continued as the construction industry switched from 2D drawings to 3D modeling, which was better, faster, and more effective.
BIM keeps evolving like every other technology, and we now have 4D, 5D, 6D, etc. Let's check them out and see the difference between the BIM dimensions.
4D BIM
4D BIM is an upgrade to the 3D model. It contains all the 3D features and other added attributes like schedule-related details.
The 4D BIM features time elements that guarantee easy and accurate project sequencing.
With the 4D BIM model, the construction team can visualize the building stages and process. It provides an accurate idea of when to do what during the building process.
For instance, the project manager can easily visualize the accurate time for the foundation, slab, Lintel, and other parts.
4D BIM is recommended for complex projects because it makes sequencing and activities coordination simple and effective.
Importance of 4D BIM
- It helps to know a project timeline.
- It allows the project manager to make the right and informed decisions regarding material allocations and risk management.
- It promotes a cordial relationship between the design and construction teams.
- It reduces safety risks, building errors, and delays.
- It prevents activities and conflicts.
5D BIM
5D is an upgrade to the 4D model, featuring everything available in the previous version.
The 5D BIM emphasizes the project's financial aspect as it contains cost elements. It helps you know the building sequence and the costs of completing each sequence.
With the 5D BIM, the construction team can easily derive how much it will cost to complete building projects.
Furthermore, it helps the project manager track changes to the budget and identifies potential cost savings.
Large-scale project contractors often deploy the 5D BIM dimension to enhance their cost management skills.
Importance of 5D BIM
- It promotes accurate cost estimation and budget
- It ensures real-time notification of cost/estimation changes.
- It enhances fast material procurement since the cost estimates are known.
- Like other models, 5D BIM encourages laudable synergy among all the stakeholders.
6D BIM
6D BIM remains one of the latest technologies in the AEC industry, which focuses on the building's performance and ability to resist environmental impacts.
It features sustainability elements that provide firsthand information on the building's energy efficiency, environmental impact, and maintenance requirements.
With 6D BIM, the project manager can easily decide how to minimize its environmental impact and operational costs.
Building professionals often use the 6D BIM in areas where environmental considerations are a top priority.
Importance of 6D BIM
- It helps to make the building more energy-efficient.
- It ensures the project team makes the best component installation decision during the design stage.
- It guarantees detailed analysis.
- It helps the team formulate a perfect maintenance program or operational management for the building.
Difference Between 4D, 5D, and 6D BIM
Though all the BIM dimensions have some similar features, there are slight differences between them.
4D prioritizes timing and scheduling. It helps project managers visualize the construction process.
5D is more concerned about cost estimates and budgets. It helps construction professionals to manage project costs.
6D BIM is all about the project's performance and sustainability. It helps designers and operators make the best decisions regarding lifespan and sustainability.
It focuses more on the final lapse of the project, including fittings and maintenance.
Wrapping Up
BIM is an essential tool in the construction industry, and the addition of 4D, 5D, and 6D BIM models has made it even more effective.
Meanwhile, we have other BIM dimensions apart from the ones above. They include 7D, 8D, 9D, and 10D. We will talk about them in our next post.
Considering BIM's importance to the AEC industry, it is safe to say that more versions might be available sooner than later.
Hire BIM Modeling Service
You need BIM modeling if you want your project to meet the required building standard and last long.
Unfortunately, knowing the BIM functions and features differs from deploying them for desired results.
You must learn to use all the features to create an attractive and quality virtual construction, which can be a bit stressful if you don't have prior experience.
Hence, it is advisable you hire a tested-and-trusted service provider for your next project.
eLogicTech Solutions is one of the world's most reliable and experienced BIM services providers with over 20 years of experience.
We've completed over 10000 projects for our clients across the globe, including USA and Canada.
Whether it's a large industrial building or a mid-sized firm, we have the right experts for whatever you need.
We are an award-winning one-stop service provider in the AEC industry offering MEP design & drafting, structural steel, and rebar detailing.
Our services are available to anyone in the Middle East, North America, Apac- Asia Pacific. Contact Us at our branch close to you or call +1 (415) 738-0642
