BIM, short for Building Information Modeling, is changing how we design, build, and work together in construction. It is driving the digital transformation of the whole industry, inspiring innovative new tools and design approaches. And BIM’s potential is far from being exhausted.
At its core, BIM is about creating a digital model that captures both the form and function of objects, buildings and spaces. It goes beyond three-dimensional modeling by also serving as a dynamic data management tool, centralizing project information for cross-disciplinary access and updates. What may sound simple is a huge unlock for architects, engineers and planners. It lets everyone involved in a project see and work on the same model at the same time, breaking down old barriers and restrictions.
In this post we will explore the many new and innovative use cases and some cutting edge tools BIM has enabled – and inspired. As digital tools evolve, BIM’s role grows, influencing how buildings come to life. It’s central to construction’s move toward a smarter, more digital, collaborative and ultimately sustainable future.
Digital twins: the future of Building Lifecycle Management
Digital twins of buildings (or even whole cities) go way beyond conventional models. They pull in live data, accurately reflecting what’s happening with the building right now. This means you can predict when parts might need fixing, figure out how to save energy, and test changes without the risk. Some tools of note are:
Matterport: This tool simplifies the creation of digital twins, making it easier to track and manage projects. It’s particularly useful for architects and builders, giving them a detailed, interactive look at a project site, which helps catch problems early.
Sensat: This software turns raw construction data into clear, useful visuals, helping teams keep a close eye on everything happening on site. It’s a standout for making smart, data-backed decisions.
IoT meets BIM: improved real-time data and project execution
With IoT sensors embedded in structures, BIM models become dynamic, tracking and updating data in real time through every phase of a building’s life.
IoT devices feed fresh data into BIM models, aiding in timely decision-making and smoother project flow. This keeps everyone in the loop about site conditions, upcoming maintenance and ways to enhance building efficiency and comfort. It also helps catch issues early. Quick detection means faster repairs, saving time and extending a building’s lifespan. And by monitoring energy consumption, IoT contributes to more sustainable construction practices.
AR & VR: BIM gets interactive
AR and VR make BIM models far more interactive and accessible, giving everyone involved a clearer, more immersive view of the project. AR and VR allow users to virtually walk through designs, spotting potential issues early to save both time and money. On-site, AR can overlay the planned design onto the actual construction space, ensuring the real build matches the digital plans. Some key AR & VR tools with BIM support:
IrisVR:Known for VR meetings, it lets teams work together in a virtual space, making it easier to go from 3D models to virtual experiences.
Mindesk: Allows for real-time work on CAD and BIM projects in VR, promoting teamwork among architects and engineers.
Revizto: Focuses on model coordination and insights, with VR for spotting issues early in the design and construction phases.
AI and BIM: transforming architectural processes
AI’s strength is its ability to analyze large amounts of data, find patterns and make predictions – a perfect match for BIM and its ability to provide vastly more detailed information about buildings. An innovative example of AI and BIM in tandem:
nCircle Tech: A company leading the way in using AI to improve BIM tasks. In the past, tasks like clash detection required manually evaluating models to find conflicts between various building elements. Now AI can quickly and automatically evaluate complicated BIM models – a previously very time consuming and error prone task.
And as AI technology gets better, its role in BIM will only grow, leading to more advanced analytics, design automation and project management.
Laser scanning and 3D printing: revolutionizing construction with BIM
Combining laser scanning and 3D printing with BIM can boost the accuracy, speed and adaptability of projects from start to finish.
Laser scanningis a game-changer for gathering construction data. It uses lasers to measure spaces and create detailed images, helping architects and engineers get exact details of a site. This is crucial for making precise BIM models, especially when working on complex or older buildings. Software like Autodesk’s Revit uses this data to build detailed models that guide the whole construction process.
3D printingis transforming how building parts are made, allowing for quick and customized production straight from BIM models. This cuts down on waste and makes it possible to produce unique, complex shapes not feasible with traditional methods.
Access solutions: fully digital and BIM enabled
dormakaba is fully supporting the shift to BIM and more digital and connected planning. At the heart of this effort is our EntriWorX ecosystem and extensive BIM enhanced specification support.
EntriWorX has been designed to make the planning, installation and management of door systems more collaborative, precise and efficient from start to end. It provides pre-configured door hardware, automation and access control solutions that are simple to install and commission.
For architects and planners, EntriWorX Planning 360°streamlines door scheduling and planning, while EntriWorX Planner simplifies installation and configuration.
Our newBIM Plugin for Revit will greatly enhance your workflow: simply export and upload your door schedule, floor plan or BIM model and receive tailored specifications together with related BIM data for use with your BIM model or even a fully populated BIM model where required, from our dormakaba experts.
Cloud-based BIM: better teamwork and access
A match made in heaven: the cloud and BIM. Now teams can work together in real time, making everything from planning to building smoother and more open. Everyone involved – architects, engineers, builders and clients – can see and share all the project info they need, whenever they need it. This means clearer communication, better decisions and a shared vision for a project. Some popular examples of cloud-based and BIM enabled tools are:
EntriWorX Planning 360°: Streamline your planning and communication processes with EntriWorX Planning 360°, our web-based collaboration software. This innovative tool simplifies not just the design planning but also enhances interactions among all stakeholders involved in planning and execution. Managing the pressures of tight schedules, building regulations, security requirements and complex client demands becomes more manageable.
Looking ahead
Nowadays, paradigm shifts come in years, not decades, it appears. So the future of BIM and digital planning promises to be very exciting for years to come, with a lot of potential for smarter, more sustainable construction solutions.
dormakaba is committed and excited to keep contributing to the evolution of BIM and digital planning and exploring the future of secure, intelligent access.
Explore our EntriWorX ecosystem.