3 Applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM)

In the construction industry computers are used to automate and simulate hand-drafting methods, and 3D models have assisted in showing what building will look like by the time they are built. BIM software have the ability to directly and interactively present concepts of design in a form which represent physical and real images of the building to allow designers to identify clients’ needs, and to promptly and effectively provide solutions to these needs (Dace (2007). They involve more people from design, management, construction and operations during the design phase which helps a great deal in the lead to design improvement.

                3  Application of BIM

1. Visual illustration: The use of BIM illustrates the most common use of 3D in the construction society. Designs can be projected using stereoscopic projection tools or the well known projectors used in institutions to create an immersive experience. This facilitate decisions based on the spatial knowledge of these models, this is very advantageous as it helps in cutting huge costs in construction.
2. Assistance: BIM can be used as assistance to the design and construction team to provide a review and re-evaluation of various means and methods to guarantee the design can be built to meet a targeted schedule and cost. It helps to detect errors and omissions in the design or project as the case may be.
3. Layout and Fieldwork: BIM data assist in layout of materials and systems in the field. This includes the creation of “lift drawings,” 2D extractions in plan and section which describe the field work in detail, and integrated with pertinent quality and safety information.
4. Prefabrication: BIM can also be used to assist in the prefabrication of building systems, enabling faster field assembly of the building. This is a result of the integration of many of the other uses described in the above stated applications: full contribution by subcontractors, full integration and coordination of geometry, and accurate registration and field installation.