Building Information Modelling in Engineering - Term Paper Example

Introduction Building information modeling entails collaborative working done through utilization of digital technologies that unlocks effective methods of creating, designing and maintenance of assets. The approach embeds asset data and key products by using three dimensional computer model utilized for efficient information management in the lifecycle of a project. Building information modeling is considered a game changing cultural and ICT process for the construction industry. The approach is being applied in various countries in the world due to the number of opportunity it brings (Arayici, 2008). The processes associated with building information modeling (BMI) are linked to infrastructure and new buildings and have extended potential in refurbishment and retrofit projects especially when rapid energy analysis and laser scanning are employed. The technology associated with BMI is considered an association between software industry and construction sectors with and aim at developing an environment for synergies and opportunities. The application of building information modeling in civil engineering Building information modeling aids in managing and generating data during construction life cycle. The approach utilizes real time, three dimensional and dynamic building modeling software to increase construction and building design productivity. The process has gives rise to BMI (Building information model) which encompasses spatial relationships, building geometry, geographic information, properties and quantities of building components. Building information modeling has various benefits such as improved visualization, reduced costs, increased productivity as a result of easy access to information, and improved delivery speed, improved coordination of documents associated with construction and linking and embedding of vital information for instance location of details, vendors of specific materials and quantities required for tendering and estimation (Crotty, 2012). Building information modeling extends beyond the computer assisted design and software since it involves designing and shaping. It is an architectural process that entails construction and virtual design and connects and integrates information by utilization of technology. BMI software such as Revit, Tekla and Microstation allows construction of a three dimensional model by the design team. The virtual approach integrates structural, electrical, mechanical and architectural. The process applies to interior fit out, master planning, infrastructure projects and building architecture. During the phase of construction, building information models assists contractors as it gives them a virtual project copy to be used as reference. It can also aid in site examination without visiting the site. It helps them in phase coordination during construction by assigning the model components to a timeline. It also assists in the creation of models having exact conditions. After construction, building information models can be of importance to both the occupiers and owners because it can be used by management facilities or real estate to find out the equipment installed for purposes of repairs and maintenance. The model can also be used to assign individual names to specific workstations and desk ratio sharing. During and after construction, building information model programs enhances the extraction and manipulation of data. BMI is a process and not a technology. It covers all construction aspects including estimation, design, supply chains, the resource allocation and goods delivery during the construction process (Crotty, 2012). The stated aspects are achieved through a variety of platforms that are technologically linked. Several technology providers promote architectural tools such as 12D model, autodesk revit and graphisoft ArchiCAD. Building information modeling is a more detailed three dimensional construction model. The model asserts that the building should be constructed once in the ground and three times in the model as explained by the term build 4 times. The model’s accuracy combined with fly-through and animations allows design layout access by a number of contractors. Alterations can be made before the beginning of the construction process. Utilization of the process reduces the number of errors and rework after the ground construction is started. The process allows collective working and contribution by the concerned team. The process is made even more effective through utilization of parametric modeling. It ensures that all construction elements and design are connected to each other. If the location of an element such as a wall is moved, the other parts also move. The approach involves building information models that were independently developed and connected together in an environment that fostered collaborations. The move allows several organizations to benefit from each other by only altering the aspect of the model. When one aspect of the build is changed, several benefits are experienced in the process (Wong & Fan, 2010). The dimensional elements relates to various information associated with the building. 4D is associated with scheduling information. The time factor is very essential in the construction industry. Bu use of the process, the construction team is able to determine, when to deliver the materials to the sites. The approach ensures delivery of materials are done at an appropriate time and more efficiently done. Five dimensions relates to the cost and estimations associated with the building. The figure below shows the benefits of BMI Collaboration and coordination Benefits of BMI process Easy maintenance and building life cycle Cost and optimization of schedule Each element in the building model has a cost associated with it. The move permits detailed analysis to be done as per the budget. The model allows the team involved with delivery to plan for it with an intention of meeting the stipulated targets. 6D relates to the sustainability targets. It allows understanding of information targeting energy utilization, material sustainability and management point of view. It also makes it easier to perform leadership in energy and environmental design. 7D is that part that involves handing over of the building to the owner. The approach ensures provision of asset management and facility management. Each element of the building has a lifespan and identification of the process makes it easier and faster to do the replacements (Robinson, 2008). The process entail selection of the construction and design teams, review and designing done by the experts involved and the construction team. The work is usually undertaken in a collaborative manner and the procedure is details are rolled out to all the individuals involved. Once the construction process begins, the building information modeling is used to offer directions. Technology is usually applied in dissemination of the information at the construction site. The process has positively impacted on the construction industry all over the world with many experts especially is civil engineers realizing the benefits associated with it. Civil engineering deals with construction of structures such as roads, building and other infrastructure. The use of the process in construction has made it easier for civil engineers to plan and complete the structures in time. The application of the model in the construction industry has made it easier to manage the process and minimizing the injuries that may take place. Building information modeling is the best approach toward the development of digital revolution and smart cities development through changes made toward the building and construction industry. The process is an important step and has made project delivery easier by redefining and change of skills and tools used in the construction process. It has also made it easier for the construction managers to monitor and built a better relationship with the team involved (Wong & Fan, 2010). The approach has enhanced collaboration and robust construction processes. It is more innovative through the various opportunities it presents and it is cost effective through delivery of programmes that are sophisticated and more diverse in the construction industry. Current civil engineers design buildings with the green agenda in mind. The process has made it effective to construct structures that are environmentally friendly with less carbon emission aimed at reducing global warming. Construction sites are usually associated with a variety of safety and health risks. Through utilization of building information model, it is easier to manage such risk and mitigate in an event of such occurrences. The collaboration of civil engineers and other stakeholders involved in the construction of a structure has been made easier through application of the process (Crotty, 2012). Construction team is updated and delivery of materials and are made in the right time. The application of the process in civil engineering has made it possible to long lasting structure with details such as lifespan of the various elements in mind. Such approach makes it easier to perform replacement in time and maintain the asset. The process has increased predictability in the construction process hence good estimations and budgeting is done. Conclusion The utilization of the building information modeling in civil engineering has more benefits both to the owner and the country. The structured coordination and sharing of non digital and digital information concerning the overall lifecycle of building and other structures has become easier and cheaper. The process has made it effective to coordinate the construction activity through efficient utilization of human resource, workflows, documentation and non graphic assets and technology (Arayici, 2008). The current civil engineers should be BMI enabled and should be well informed with issues associated with the model through technology, management skills and research. With the current technology and globalization, information will play a vital role in digital revolution and construction of smart cities. Building information modeling offers an effective approach toward realization of this vision. Public support and funding should target the utilization of BMI in various construction projects. The building information modeling helps in converting information into insights with an aim of producing more effective and resilient structures. References Arayici, Y. 2008. Towards building information modelling for existing structures. Structural Survey, 210-222. Crotty, R. 2012. The impact of building information modelling: Transforming construction. Abingdon, Oxon: Spon. Robinson, C. 2008. Structural Building Information Modelling in Use. IABSE Symposium Report, 1-8. Wong, K., & Fan, Q. 2010. Building information modelling (BIM) for sustainable building design. Facilities, 138-157. Read More