What are BIM Dimensions? BIM Dimensions refers to the amount and/or level of Information and data incorporated in a model and the utilization of this information. More information you include in a model, the more dimensions you create.
These dimensions are from CAD, 2D to 10D. I guess you are surprised to see 2D BIM. There is a difference between 2D BIM and 2D CAD. All 2D plans, sections, and elevations are extracted from a 3D model. Otherwise, it would mean you are duplicating your data into creating original 2D drawings, which is not an ideal workflow. Lots of firms that are transitioning to BIM have a tendency to start on CAD and then create the BIM model. So, basically, they paid for the job to be created twice that delivered 2D CAD sheets and BIM models created separately. In this kind of workflow, there are more chances of errors and conflicting information. BIM is here to help us more efficiently but also to make us more confident in the data. We are very familiar with the first three dimensions by that I mean CAD, 2D, and 3D. So we may get confused between 3D and 3D BIM. It is important to know that they are not the same.
We are going to discuss 3D Building Information Models, a virtual model that is made up of a wireframe model of the building plus data. As the project lifecycle progresses this information becomes even richer, detailed, and redefined. This dimension will be used to share information through the BIM process. 3D BIM enables participants to understand and communicate project information more easily. 3D BIM also enables multidisciplinary coordination and analysis as in architectural, MEP, and structural. You have to have a 3D BIM model in order to use the BIM process.
The 4D, it's a time dimension. This information can be used to obtain accurate programmed information and visualization showing how your project will be developed sequentially using a schedule management software such as Microsoft Project synced with 4D software such as Synchro4D or NavisWorks.
Then comes 5D the cost dimension is added to the 4th dimension. It allows stakeholders to keep track and analyze the cost and budget of construction and lifecycle.
Up to the 5th dimension, everyone in the industry is on the same page. But after the 5th dimension, people's understanding may differ from each other. We are going to discuss the different dimensions of information compared to the image shown above.
The 6D is the energy consumption analysis and it is very tightly aligned with sustainability. If you are using it in the early design process, it enables a more complete and accurate energy estimate and also the ability to conduct analysis during building occupation which can improve the performance of facilities.
The 7D is the management of the asset life cycle, used by the facility manager in the operation and maintenance. This is the part where all owners want to be efficient. This dimension enables tracking relevant asset data such as component status, specification, maintenance, operation manual, warranty data, etc. It can significantly improve facility management.
All these dimensions defined the goal and use of BIM. It is really important to define and decide which one you are going to use before starting a project. It will provide the level of detail and information required to create a BIM model.
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