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: February 14, 2023
How BIM Technology Makes Construction Projects More Efficient
In the construction industry, advancements in technology have made it possible to complete projects more efficiently. From building modeling to virtual and augmented reality walkthroughs to AI-supported data analytics, there is a wide range of new technologies emerging that can resolve any bottlenecks or system redundancies that construction companies face.
However, despite the increasing accessibility of these technologies, many construction companies are still reluctant to adopt them. The good news is that utilizing these solutions can bring significant returns on investment for future projects and improve the overall efficiency and professionalism of a company.
The earlier a construction project incorporates technology into its planning and construction phases, the more benefits it will see throughout the project's lifespan. Here are just a few ways in which BIM technology can improve a construction project's efficiency:
Prefabrication is a game-changer when it comes to increasing a project's efficiency. However, prefabrication is only possible with the right technology to support it. With BIM, it's possible to model a building and create spool sheets and shop drawings based on that model. These shop drawings allow a prefab shop to build all systems to the correct specifications, eliminating the need for on-site adjustments and ensuring that everything fits together perfectly. Want to know more, read our previous blog on how Detailing drives prefabrication.
With the advancements in augmented and virtual reality technologies, we can now see under-construction projects in entirely new ways. AR glasses, such as Microsoft Hololens, can be integrated into a BIM model to enable a person to see the model overlaid on the real-life conditions of the project. This allows construction professionals to walk through the site and see how the next phase of construction will interact with what has already been built, ensuring there are no clashes or interferences. After a system is completed, the system can be viewed with an overlay of the model for quality assurance and control by comparing the model to how the system was installed.
Modeling a project and prefabricating systems makes it possible to predict material usage more accurately. In a prefab shop with material nesting software, the material needed for the entire project can be analyzed, and material ends that would have often been wasted can be used for parts in other areas of the project. Nesting software combined with the ability to make spools in advance and store them in a controlled environment means that all material is used to its maximum potential.
Additionally, BIM models can be integrated with procurement software to streamline the procurement and purchasing process, reducing administrative hours by automating these tasks.
When a project has been modeled and clash detection has been run, most problems can be predicted before they occur on-site. This allows the detailing team and general contractor to find solutions in advance, reducing the need for rework and reducing field labor hours. Making adjustments on-the-fly during construction slows down the schedule and causes material waste. With BIM and other modeling technologies, projects are finalized with constructability and increased efficiency in mind, leaving no guesswork for the field.
Just as the planning and construction phases of a project benefit from incorporating BIM technology, so does the end-user of the building. Models and construction data are invaluable for future tenants, maintenance personnel, and potential future upgrades or renovations to a project.
Virtual reality headsets allow stakeholders and future tenants to see what the building will look like upon completion and interact with the space. The construction industry has been slow to adopt new technologies, but that's starting to change as companies realize the benefits they can bring to projects. In particular, Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a technology that is transforming the way construction projects are planned, executed, and maintained. From reducing waste to improving communication and collaboration, BIM has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry.
One of the key benefits of BIM is that it allows for prefabrication. By modeling a building in advance, the detailing team can create spool sheets and shop drawings that ensure all systems are built to the correct specifications. This eliminates the need for on-site adjustments and reduces the risk of things not fitting together properly. Prefabrication also leads to less material waste, as the material needed for the entire project can be analyzed in advance and material ends can be used for other parts of the project. Click here to read more about how BIM saves you time and money.
Another benefit of BIM is that it supports virtual and augmented reality walkthroughs. With AR glasses like Microsoft Hololens, a person can see the BIM model overlaid on the current construction site. This allows for real-time visualization of the construction process and helps to identify any potential clashes or interferences before they occur. Once a system is completed, the model can be used to ensure the installation is the same as the model.
BIM also helps to streamline the procurement and purchasing process. By integrating procurement software into the BIM model, construction companies can automate many of the administrative tasks involved in procurement. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
For the end user of the building, BIM has many benefits as well. For example, virtual reality walkthroughs can be used to help secure tenants and plan for future renovations. QR codes can be placed throughout the building to allow for easy access to the BIM model, which provides information about MEP/F systems, structural features, and more. This information is valuable throughout the entire existence of the building, as it supports the maintenance and helps to plan for future upgrades and renovations.
At ICON-BIM, we understand the importance of technology in construction. That's why we offer BIM solutions that help construction companies embrace new technologies and get the most out of their projects. Whether you're looking to get help with just a portion of a project or need a qualified resource to Detail the entire project. We have you covered. Our Detailed BIM models can easily be run through your prefab shop and be installed in the field with ease. Does the field have a question? Have the General Foreperson call the Detailer who drew it directly. They will quickly find that our Detailers also worked with the tools and built what we Detail. Communication gaps or understanding of the means and methods of construction are non-issues with ICON BIM. In a previous blog, we covered 5 ways our Detailing team supports clear communication with the general foreman.
Don't leave your projects to chance and leave money on the table. Join the technology revolution with ICON-BIM and see the benefits for yourself. Visit the ICON BIM Website to learn more about us or fill out our estimate request form.
