BIM modeling

In engineering and construction, efficiency, accuracy and resource management are crucial to the success of any project. Building Information Modeling, also known as BIM modeling, is a remarkable innovation that has redefined the way construction projects are designed, managed and executed.

What is BIM modeling?

BIM modeling is a collaborative working method based on the creation of a 3D model of a construction project, making it possible to integrate all the information required for decision-making throughout a plant’s lifecycle, from design to demolition or renovation. This digital model centralizes all construction data, from architecture and materials to technical installations, enabling better understanding and coordination between all project stakeholders. All information is stored centrally and is accessible to all project stakeholders, such as architects and contractors.

The stages of BIM modeling

The BIM modeling process involves several key stages:  

• Data collection:

The first step is to gather all relevant project information, such as specifications, technical data, drawings… This step is essential to establish a solid foundation.

• Model creation: 

A team of experts then creates a 3D digital model of the building, integrating all the data previously collected. It then becomes the complete digital representation of the project, enabling detailed visualization and efficient coordination between all stakeholders.

• Analysis:

BIM can also be used to carry out analyses and simulations to optimize the design.

• Continuous updating:

BIM modeling is constantly updated to reflect changes in the project as accurately as possible, thus ensuring precise management of the construction project. Once the project is complete, BIM modeling becomes an indispensable resource, particularly for maintenance and future building renovations. The BIM model preserves the digital memory of everything to do with the building, facilitating post-construction management operations.

The benefits of BIM modeling for your construction and renovation projects

Using BIM modeling offers a multitude of benefits, from increased efficiency to reduced costs. Here are just a few examples:

•  Better coordination between project participants

Thanks to dynamic data, all those involved have a global and detailed view of the project, facilitating communication and collaboration between the different teams. What’s more, since all information is grouped together in the same digital space, changes made to the model by one of the participants are instantly visible to all the others, reducing the risk of poor workmanship and coordination problems.

• Easier monitoring for maintenance and operation

The BIM model is a valuable database for plant maintenance and operations managers, providing them with all the information they need (location of equipment, materials used, etc.) to plan and monitor maintenance operations over the life of the production unit.

• Optimized project and asset management 

BIM modeling represents a veritable revolution in project and asset management. By offering a real-time view, BIM detects design conflicts at an early stage and enables immediate response. Combined with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), it also ensures proactive, intelligent equipment management. 

BIM dimensions

There are several dimensions to BIM modeling. Each of these dimensions has its own objective, and includes new aspects of the construction process.

• 3D BIM

 By uniting geometric and informative aspects, 3D modeling integrates the essential functional and physical data of a building. It greatly enhances collaboration and problem-solving throughout a construction project.

• BIM 4D

BIM 4D is associated with project planning, integrating an essential element: time. It takes planning data into account to determine the expected duration of the project. 4D enhances and optimizes planning by providing essential schedule details, such as the installation sequence of the various components.

• BIM 5D

BIM 5D modeling adds a financial aspect to the project. It includes the management of costs and budgets throughout the building’s lifecycle. BIM 5D therefore makes it possible to estimate construction costs and track expenditure, while anticipating the project’s financial needs.

• BIM 6D

BIM 6D makes it possible to analyze a building’s energy consumption and provide energy estimates right from the early design stages. This dimension takes into account all phases of a structure’s life cycle, making it possible to accurately predict its energy requirements. By offering a global vision, BIM 6D makes it possible to determine how financial resources should be allocated to guarantee the sustainability and profitability of an asset.

• BIM 7D

7D modeling is extremely useful for operations and facility management. It enables efficient tracking of asset data, such as condition or technical specifications. By bringing together all the information linked to facility management, 7D BIM ensures that a structure’s performance and durability are preserved.