Building information modeling (BIM) is a way of approaching the design and documentation of building projects and manages not just graphics, but information.
BIM technology can provide integrated design solutions and streamline even the most complex and logistically challenging projects.It can provide an almost real-time measure of the progress of the design and installation. BIM models are also a useful planning tool for helping sequence construction, and it is an excellent reference for visualizing potential options and optimization of space and routings. W.D. Manor’s use of BIM saves time and money, enhances collaboration and creates better overall project outcomes over traditional methods for the owner and all project team members.
Many projects require the project team to be as unobtrusive as possible while conducting complex construction activity near and throughout the existing facilities and infrastructure. In order to mitigate the logistical challenges while achieving the project goals for quality, schedule and budget, W.D. Manor utilizes a wide variety of BIM tools that are integrated into the project.
BIM TOOLS AND BENEFITS:
BIM EXECUTION PLAN: Within the BIM plan, individual roles and responsibilities are clearly defined including meetings and protocols. The AIA E202 documents is used as a baseline and then customized to meet the modeling specifications’ level of detail required for this project. The BIM Execution Plan (BEP) will also describe in detail the goals and processes for the use of BIM 3D modeling, 4D scheduling and 5D estimating as it applies to all building components and project team members. The BEP ensures effective coordination, communication, documentation, tracking and resolution of issues as the design and coordination between multiple entities progresses, and by using this collaborative approach along with the BIM tools, the owner is able to quickly and effectively understand the team’s approach.
BIM 3D MODELING: Intelligent, highly technical 3D virtual models of the new construction and extensive infrastructure work are used in the field to help visualize and eliminate conflicts among the trades. The models also aid with quality control, constructability analysis, cost estimating and project scheduling. The collaborative design-assist contracting approach benefits greatly from the use of BIM. Through design-assist delivery, the design and contracting entities work together to coordinate one 3D model for design and construction. The model is then used by the design-assist subcontractors to create the contract drawings and the engineer of record stamps them. This process significantly enhances the sharing and transfer of information from design to construction, streamlining the entire process.
BIM FOR QUALITY CONTROL: Both BIM 3D virtual and full scale mock-ups of all key functional spaces are created for quality control before construction begins on the project. Virtual mock-ups are often built to allow users to visualize the space with the designers and client and if a change is necessary, the areas can be modified quickly and then reviewed again by users until the ideal functional relationship of systems is established.
TRANSFERRING BIM TO THE FIELD: The real test of BIM value is transferring it for use in the field. In order to transfer the BIM 3D model for use in the field and ensure the team is updated in real time no matter their location, the construction team can use various devices loaded with Autodesk Navisworks and or Bluebeam software.
BIM 4D SCHEDULING: Once modeling is completed BIM 4D is used to validate the current baseline schedule and reflect any design changes.
BIM 5D ESTIMATING: Project teams further employ the use of BIM for estimating project change orders and to estimate quantities if there is a mass change. By engaging BIM 5D, the project team is able to evaluate a proposed change in a virtual environment and quickly validate options, cost and time, with high reliability to the impacts.
