More efficient production and assembly

Photo: Graphisoft

Modeling instead of drawing: the automated generation of plans and visualizations is just one of the many benefits offered by BIM

Photo: Graphisoft

Photo: KUKA

In the construction sector, BIM & Co. should result in quality improvements and streamlining effects similar to those that have long become common in many other industries

Photo: KUKA

Photo: Autodesk

The BIM model can reflect the entire process chain including the design, construction and use of structures

Photo: Autodesk

Photo: Bentley

A huge amount of geometrical and alphanumeric project data is generated, involving design and construction but also building use and demolition

Photo: Bentley

Photo: Autodesk

However, creating and maintaining a BIM data model requires much more effort than the drawing-based approach

Photo: Autodesk

Photos(3): Nemetschek Engineering

The scheduled assembly sequence can be visualized if a fourth dimension (time) is added to the 3D BIM model

Photos(3): Nemetschek Engineering

Photo: Dlubal

One of the many benefits offered by BIM is the option of optimizing the load-bearing structure using the FE method

Photo: Dlubal

Photo: RIB Software AG

Another advantage is the option of checking potential conflicts between individual construction trades

Photo: RIB Software AG

Photo: Building Smart e.V.

A „BIM manager“ and efficient data exchange mechanisms are required for the seamless cooperation between all parties involved in the design and planning process

Photo: Building Smart e.V.

Compared to other industries, the efficiency of processes in the construction industry lags several years behind. Building Information Modeling (BIM) should overcome this situation. What does BIM stand for, and what will change in actual practice?

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the end-to-end integration of building information relevant to design, execution and use in a central database. As in the automotive and mechanical and plant engineering sectors, the underlying rationale is to consider the entire product lifecycle. These industries have consistently applied the principle of product lifecycle management (PLM) for many years. This concept refers to the process chain associated with a product across its entire lifecycle, including its design and engineering, production and maintenance, disposal or recycling and reuse. A wide...