Building Information Modeling

With Monahan Design LLC Proposed structures and sites are not drawn, they are modeled using BIM (building Information Modeling). Both for the architectural components and mechanical and plumbing as well.

BIM is a building development tool that is based on a 3-d model of a building created in an object-oriented (intelligent) modeling software (we use Autodesk Revit) .  Once the model is created, it can be used to assist with design, construction and operational tasks; it can also be used as a communication tool. 

There are many advantageous uses to BIM
Most contractors are likely to start using BIM through “partial uses.” The list of partial uses of BIM seems almost infinite. For contractors already using BIM, the list seems to grow daily. For those getting started, the following list represents some of the more common “early” uses that most contractors experience in their experimentation with BIM:
• Visualization
• Scope Clarification
• Partial Trade Coordination
• Collision Detection/Avoidance
• Design Validation
• Construction Sequencing Planning/Phasing Plans/Logistics
• Marketing Presentations
• Options Analysis/Illustration
• Walk-throughs and Fly-throughs
• Virtual Mock-Ups
• Sight Line Studies
• Modeling Existing Buildings
• Converting 2D Drawings

What are some of the benefits of BIM?
BIM is the growing approach to design, and the potential uses are nearly limitless..  Here are a few:

Benefits for Contractors
• Assisting with scoping during bidding and purchasing
• Reviewing portions of the scope for analyses such as value engineering
• Coordinating construction sequencing
• Demonstrating project approaches during marketing presentations 
• The ability to identify collisions (e.g., identifying ductwork running into structural members).  
• The ability to visualize what is to be built in a simulated environment
• Fewer errors and corrections in the field
• The ability to do more “what if” scenarios, such as looking at various sequencing options , site logistics, hoisting alternatives, cost, etc.
• The ability for non-technical people (clients, users, etc.) to visualize the end product
• Fewer callbacks and thus, lower warranty costs

Benefits to the Plumbing Designer

•Fixture schedules can be synchronized or linked to the architects schedule with a mere key stroke if desired.
•Fixture schedules, plans, riser diagrams, sections and details can be automatically synchronized
•Designer and his/her collaborators can visualize fixture layout and piping in 3D throughout the design process.
•Collisions and interferences can be determined immediately and automatically by software and integrated designs. NO MORE RFIs to process, THE BIM contains the information they need.
•Riser diagrams can be developed once and then automatically synchronized with the plans. All engineering data, (such as drainage fixture units) can be automatically and continuously followed in plan and analyzed in a variety of views and filters.
•Revisions to the plan, including architecture, can be checked in much less time compared to CAD or drafting methods.
•Designer can add, delete, and modify fixtures and outlets easily with automatic update to the engineering data and the model.

Benefits to the Electrical Designer

Improved coordination of electrical systems – prevent clashes with other systems like plumbing, structural elements and mechanical systems

Benefits to the Mechanical Designer

Improved Coordination with other disciplines and contractors
Added efficiency to generate documents
3D geometry with spatial relationships and attributes
Easily extract HVAC data from the 3D Model
Integration with Energy Analysis applications Such as IES VE
Data for building commissioning and recommissioning is readily available