BIM-Based 4D Modeling and Scheduling - Construction Project Scheduling and Control - page 393

Chapter 15
BIM-Based 4D Modeling and Scheduling
OVERVIEW OF THE BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM)
Definition and Benefits of BIM
The vision of National Building Information Modeling Standard (NBIMS) Commit-
tee for Building Information Modeling (BIM) is “an improved planning, design, con-
struction, operation, and maintenance process using a standardized machine-readable
information model for each facility, new or old, which contains all appropriate infor-
mation created or gathered about that facility in a format useable by all throughout its
life cycle” (NBIMS, 2007). Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America defines
BIM “as is a data-rich, object-oriented, intelligent and parametric digital representa-
tion of the facility, from which views and data appropriate to various users' needs can
be extracted and analyzed to generate information that can be used to make decisions
and to improve the process of delivering the facility” (AGC, 2005). An example of
how the building components are represented in BIM systems is given in Figure 15.1.
BIM is about digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics
of a facility/building component that incorporates “knowledge” and “information.”
BIM can be regarded as a novel technology or a new technique based on the automa-
tion of the solid structure of the facilities, sequencing, cost estimation, facility man-
agement and life-cycle assessment. It is a new form of knowledge and resource sharing
that provides a reliable basis for decision making, dependable assessments of probable
clashes, problems and conflicts, more successful project deliveries, and enhanced col-
laborative culture. Figures 15.2 and 15.3, respectively, show how the information
about a column and a wall are captured and stored in BIM.
In short, BIM is a visualization, coordination, communication, and design tool
that utilizes 3D models to create 4D, 5D, or even nD models. Some nD models of
BIM with its major functions are given in Figure 15.4. BIM enables the user to gen-
erate visual prototypes and simulations of projects prior to building them, enhance
the quality of products and processes, minimize time and cost overruns, accurately
estimate project costs, and effectively share project information with all project stake-
holders. BIM supports the various phases of a project by designing, utilizing, and
1 This chapter was written with contributions from Dr. Onur B. Tokdemir and Acelya E. Yildiz.
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