How BIM Works in Construction
How BIM Works in Construction Building Information Modeling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative force in the construction industry, revolutionizing the way projects are conceived, designed, and...
Published: August 1, 2022
A Guide to Level of Detail (LOD) Industry Standards
If you’re not familiar with Level of Detail industry standards, they can seem confusing and complicated. In reality, they’re much more straightforward than the average person might expect. In this blog, we’ll break down what LOD standards are, what each level means, and how we use them within the BIM/VDC industry.
First, what are Level of Detail standards? When creating a BIM model, industry professionals use the Level of Detail standards to determine the type, amount, and degree of information represented in the building model. This can include visual details, physical characteristics, and object data. There are six different levels that a project can require. Regardless of LOD, all models must be capable of being presented in three dimensions and must be an object-based parametric database system.
The Model Element may be graphically represented in the Model with a symbol
or other generic representation, but does not satisfy the requirements for LOD 200. Information related to the Model Element (i.e. cost per square foot, the tonnage of HVAC, etc.) can be derived from other Model Elements. BIMForum Interpretation: LOD 100 elements are not geometric representations. Examples are information attached to other model elements or symbols showing the existence of a component but not its shape, size, or precise location. Any information derived from LOD 100 elements must be considered approximate.
The Model Element is graphically represented within the Model as a generic system, object, or assembly with approximate quantities, size, shape, location, and orientation. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element. BIMForum interpretation: At this LOD elements are generic placeholders. They may be recognizable as the components they represent, or they may be volumes for space reservation. Any information derived from LOD 200 elements must be considered approximate.
The Model Element is graphically represented within the Model as a specific system, object, or assembly in terms of quantity, size, shape, location, and orientation. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element. BIMForum interpretation: The quantity, size, shape, location, and orientation of the element as designed can be measured directly from the model without referring to non-modeled information such as notes or dimension call-outs. The project origin is defined, and the element is located accurately with respect to the project origin.
The Model Element is graphically represented within the Model as a specific system, object, or assembly in terms of quantity, size, shape, location, orientation, and interface with other building systems. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element. BIMForum interpretation. Parts necessary for coordination of the element with nearby or attached elements are modeled. These parts will include such items as supports and connections. The quantity, size, shape, location, and orientation of the element as designed can be measured directly from the model without referring to non- modeled information such as notes or dimension call-outs.
The Model Element is graphically represented within the Model as a specific system, object, or assembly in terms of size, shape, location, quantity, and orientation with detailing, fabrication, assembly, and installation information. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element. BIMForum interpretation. An LOD 400 element is modeled at sufficient detail and accuracy for fabrication of the represented component. The quantity, size, shape, location, and orientation of the element as designed can be measured directly from the model without referring to non-modeled information such as notes or dimension call-outs. This is the most common LOD for subcontractors who want to pre-fabricate their scope of work.
The Model Element is a field-verified representation in terms of size, shape, location, quantity, and orientation. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Elements. BIMForum interpretation. Since LOD 500 relates to field verification and is not an indication of progression to a higher level of model element geometry or non-graphic information, this specification does not define or illustrate it. Essentially this is the LOD 400 model with the as-builts from the field incorporated into the model.
While ICON-BIM typically works at LOD 400, we can provide our clients with any of the above-described levels of detail, depending on their project’s specific needs. If you’re interested in working with us, you can contact the ICON-BIM team today for a free quote.