Although BIM is improving its capabilities and features, it still lacks in terms of what other software such as SAP or eQuest can analyse.
Industry standards such as CAD have dominated the engineering and design atmosphere for so long, and BIM is seemingly putting an end to it. Typical 2D software is no longer sufficient when the capabilities to manage and model 3D figures are there to help owners, designers, and engineers better visualize the structure under review.
BIM interoperability with different software is allowing groups to use the software of their choice and allowing them to interact with fewer errors between the transfer of data among them. One of the challenges that faces BIM in industry is the need to link other types of software to the model in order for firms to achieve the level of functionality that they're looking for. Many designers still prefer to use platforms developed specifically for their individual disciplines.
Showing posts with label CAD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CAD. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Week 4 - BIM vs. Drafting (with a CAD Program) - Advantages and Disadvantages
BIM vs. Drafting (with a CAD Program) - Advantages and Disadvantages
As
many companies merge towards incorporating BIM into most of their projects,
they may wonder if using BIM has more advantages than disadvantages. The easy answer to this question would be
that BIM is much more advantageous due to its ability to perform parametric
modeling and incorporate all of the different systems within a building at
once. For example, Dongyan Qi described
in his blog post about BIM being able to provide a 3D walkthrough and renderings of all of the systems. However, BIM does more than just this. Unlike BIM, CAD
is a 2D technology that outputs a collection of lines and text on a page. These
lines have no inherent meaning, whether inside the computer or on the printed
sheet. . . there is little to no correlation or intelligent connection
among them.” (Dzambazova) If two
parallel lines are drawn in CAD, they say nothing about that wall other than it
exists. It does not give the materials
that make it or any of the material properties.
BIM, on the other hand, is modeled so that “Each component and
material understands its physical properties as well as how it will perform as
a building system so we can get rich data out of the model regarding heating
and cooling, most efficient building orientation, solar gains, etc.; we can test
our building before it’s built” (Webster)
The objects are no longer modeled as just a set of lines that give the
dimensions, they can be specified “in terms of its structural, acoustic,
thermal or aesthetic performance. “
(Hamil) Engineers can use this info,
which can be updated if necessary, to determine things like how the combined insulation
properties of external and internal walls affects
the heating and cooling loads that will need to be provided by the HVAC in the
building.
As convenient as it is to be able to monitor and produce models that can
provide these properties, it can have some drawbacks as well. For example, CAD can be seen as being
advantageous because it provides “a set of
instructions for the intended means of constructing the building. Exact means
in this method are hashed out during shop drawings, coordination meetings and
often in the field after construction has begun.” (Webster) This allows
engineers using a CAD system to speed up the process of erecting a structure. Many owners of the structure being designed
would love to start the construction process as soon as possible, especially if
they know that decisions can still be successfully made regarding the design
after they have broken ground. Also, there are many custom made materials and parts that are not included in the libraries of BIM software of objects to be modeled. Matt Morimoto mentioned in his blog post about conduit elbows sometimes not being able to be connected due to sizing issues. Although BIM software such as Revit allows the creation of families to model and place new 3D objects, it is sometimes only necessary, and therefore easier, to just provide a simple 2D model that can be easily created in a CAD system.
Resources:
Dave Webster. "Keys to a Successful BIM
Implementation: BIM vs. CAD: Really…What’s the Difference?" MasterGraphics
Weblog RSS. N.p., 26 Oct. 2011. Web. 28
Jan. 2014. <http://www.mastergraphics.com/wordpress/2011/keys-to-a-successful-bim-implementation-bim-vs-cad-reallywhats-the-difference/>.
Dzambazova, Tatjana, Eddy Krygiel, and Greg Demchak.
"Understanding BIM." Introducing Revit Architecture 2010: BIM for Beginners. Indianapolis, IN: Wiley Pub., 2009. N. pag. Safari. Web. 28
Jan. 2014. <http://my.safaribooksonline.com/book/cad/9780470473559/understanding-bim/how_bim_is_different_from_cad>.
Stephen Hamil. "Isn't BIM Just 3D CAD?" Nbs,
Aug. 2011. Web. 28 Jan. 2014. <http://www.thenbs.com/topics/bim/articles/isntBimJust3Dcad.asp>.
Week 4 - BIM vs. Drafting and its progression
As computer hardware has become
more powerful over the years Building Information Modeling (BIM) software has
started to skyrocket in its popularity.
With all the powerful information and modeling you can do with BIM
software you wonder why it did not catch on earlier. To understand this we have to go back to the
beginning and look at the history of the two forms of CAD.
CAD can be
broken up into two categories; entity-based software (2D drafting) or
object-based software (3D drafting). The
interesting fact about these two forms of CAD design is that they both came to
be around the same time. The first 3D
software came out in 1980 and1984 and the first 2D software came out in 1983
and 1984. With both of these software
options available most people jumped on board with the 2D entity-based software
with AutoCAD selling almost 1,000,000 copies of their software with comparable
3d object-based software selling far fewer copies. This initial popularity of the 2D drafting
software is mostly because of the computing power needed to run them as
compared to that needed to run the 3D software.
Also in addition to just the hardware requirements for the software the
2D CAD was much like traditional hand drafting in its production of spaces and
elements using simple line and arc commands.
The 2D software helped speed up the drafting and production process
therefore meeting the initial need of the industry.
While 2D
drafting may have reigned supreme for almost 25 years the power and
capabilities of the 3D drafting systems is gaining popularity and pushing out
the once dominant 2D drafting tools. The
main reason for this is that computer hardware has finally caught up to the
needs of 3D drafting making the hardware cheaper and more accessible to
companies who can gain a lot more from the design and use of a 3D model than
they can a 2D model. This paradigm
switch can also be seen by how the software companies viewed the 3D
modeling. Autodesk, who was leader in
the 2D drafting world with their AutoCAD software, acquired Revit in 2002 for
$133 Million. This acquisition showed
that even Autodesk knew the future was in 3D object based modeling and that if
they were not going to enter the game they would soon be pushed out.
The power
and capabilities in 3D modeling software has opened doors for what is being
called “nD” modeling representing 4D, 5D, 6D…. nD modeling. This idea consists of taking the model far
from just the design to using the model as a construction-scheduling tool,
building maintenance schedules, and all around life cycle analysis that makes
up the “n-th” dimension of the model.
While the
learning curve may be steep for 3D modeling software, as more and more firms
adopt the 3D modeling software there is an increase in help/reference material
and more all inclusive tutorials and classes to help prepare firms for the
future.
References:
·
Tao-Chiu Kenny TSE, (2005) The Utilization of
building information models in nD Modeling: A Study of data interfacing and
adoption barriers
· DSC (2000) History of
CAD. Dalton State College
·
Fischer,
M (2001) Introduction to 4D Research
Comments on Blogs
Melanie good post! I find it
interesting how your research actually further broke 3D and BIM into two
categories. I personally have always
viewed these two as the same but I guess its like comparing sketchup and
Revit. Both are 3D but Revit holds a lot
more data. I think over time Revit has
become the standard BIM software in the industry, probably because of its
backing from autodesk, but do agree that this standardization of software and
compatibility will only make BIM more accessible and powerful.
Michael I found your post very interesting. I liked how you explored
beyond just the design capabilities of BIM and how the architect interacts with
the model. The idea of that firm,
AnyBody Technology, to model the human experience using a building model is
awesome. I am sure that this technology
could eventually let an owner, engineer, architect, or any other concerned
party actually walk the building prior to its construction. This would be really cool to pair with the
OculusRift technology out there.
Audrey great post! I really like
your insight on how the use of BIM can help build a sustainable future. The modeling capabilities, outside of design,
of BIM just astounds me. I think it is
great that even builders like Skanska are starting to take hold on BIM and what
it can do for the owner. Really great
examples of where BIM has taken us thus far. Can’t wait to see what BIM has
in store over the next few years!
Friday, January 24, 2014
Group A: BIM vs. Drafting (Advantages and Disadvantages)
BIM is a system through which a 3D model can be used to
produce both 3D and 2D drawings. In addition to drawing, BIM is based on
databases from which information on the type of object being drawn can be
extracted. This database can also be used to come up with schedules.
One of the advantages of BIM modelling, I learnt more about
last week. This is parametric modeling. BIM systems have the ability to change
a portion of the structure and other parts of the model will change in
accordance. For example, if the size of a wall has to change, the slab thickness
and sizes of the other walls will change to accommodate for the new wall
dimensions. CAD programs such as Autocad do not have this ability. The
designer, after changing the dimensions of one wall, would have to go through
all the objects that are affected by this change and alter them accordingly.
Figure 1 shows that that with BIM programs, most of the work
is concentrated in the design process while with CAD drafting, when changes had
to be made, since it takes longer to make these changes, the most amount of
work would be concentrated in the construction documentation phase of the project.
“Civil engineers typically design for code compliance, not for
constructability. But incorrect interpretations about design intent made in the
field because of ambiguous documentation can lead to delayed schedules, change
orders, and RFIs after construction begins.” [2]
Another advantage of BIM programs is that through the
database, a designer is able to determine how many cubic feet of concrete are
being used for the walls. This is not something that was previously available
in CAD programs.
BIM has become so well known that even clients have begun to
understand its effect on the design process. As a result, clients know that changes
can easily be made. Making changes late in the process can lead on an increase
in design and construction costs.
Another disadvantage is that a large amount of file space is
required. This means that there has to be a change in the computer hardware as
a result of the change in the software.
Comments
Mike: It was interesting reading about how BIM will actually improve buildings not just improving the ease of their design. I had not thought about how this would change especially for the HVAC system; improving the thermal comfort of occupants. I don't know Revit that well but I believe it is able to determine how energy efficient a room is and takes into consideration not just the HVAC system but other ways in which heat/energy can be released and absorbed. BIM will help reduce the amount of energy that is wasted in the building.
Steve: You're definitely right in saying that BIM will lead engineers to be more creative with their models due to the reduction in the amount of time spent making changes. As Mike also discussed, HVAC is a component of the model that may be most affected due to the improvement in the estimation of the energy efficiency of the room. I find the urban planning option really interesting since it would be helpful with my senior design project.
Matt: I found it interesting that you talked about how engineers have a hard time adapting to Revit. I believe this is one of the fears of companies that inhibit them to switch over. However, the ability of BIM to coordinate between different disciplines hugely outweighs how long it would take for engineers to get used to the program.
Comments
Mike: It was interesting reading about how BIM will actually improve buildings not just improving the ease of their design. I had not thought about how this would change especially for the HVAC system; improving the thermal comfort of occupants. I don't know Revit that well but I believe it is able to determine how energy efficient a room is and takes into consideration not just the HVAC system but other ways in which heat/energy can be released and absorbed. BIM will help reduce the amount of energy that is wasted in the building.
Steve: You're definitely right in saying that BIM will lead engineers to be more creative with their models due to the reduction in the amount of time spent making changes. As Mike also discussed, HVAC is a component of the model that may be most affected due to the improvement in the estimation of the energy efficiency of the room. I find the urban planning option really interesting since it would be helpful with my senior design project.
Matt: I found it interesting that you talked about how engineers have a hard time adapting to Revit. I believe this is one of the fears of companies that inhibit them to switch over. However, the ability of BIM to coordinate between different disciplines hugely outweighs how long it would take for engineers to get used to the program.
References
1. Lister,
David. "What Is BIM?" Precise Drafting, Inc. N.p., n.d. Web.
<http://www.precisedraftinginc.com/bim.html>.
2. Strafaci,
Adam. "What Does BIM Mean for Civil Engineers?" CE News.
ZweigWhite, n.d. Web.
<http://www.cenews.com/magazine-article----what_does_bim_mean_for_civil_engineers_-6098.html>.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
BIM vs.CAD Drafting
Building information modeling is revolutionizing how
drafting is performed in practice. The CAD programming software is slowly
becoming obsolete as BIM becomes more inexpensive and more widely used in
practice. The movement from 2D drafting with 3D elements to complete 3D,
heavily detailed models is changing how engineers operate in regards to design.
There are differences between the two that garner special note, since each has
pros and cons to their usage.
Programming using CAD software enables a user to design a part or building with ease, however this quality is also its biggest drawback. Less experienced engineers are able to create designs that appear to be ideal and suited for manufacturing, but in actuality, they cannot. CAD allows a user to “simply mate two parts” (Webster) that touch and are flush with one another. In the real world, those two components need to be bonded by means of welding, adhesives or fasteners. The use of CAD leaves a lot of discrepancies, due to lack of details that are addressed by the contractor in the field. These "on the fly" changes, in turn cause a waste in productivity, time and money. In contrast, CAD today enables designers to create free-flowing shapes in addition to contours and blended angles that add a sense of creativity and individuality. The advancements in CAD over the past 20 years have given features like documentation tracking for project files.
The biggest asset that BIM has is the ability to test your building before it is even built. Its virtual construction allows for accurate testing for heating and cooling, solar gains, orientation efficiency and much more. In addition, BIM design is much more exact than CAD drafting. The 3D model allows for much better analysis of building systems and quantifiable data. The negative impacts of BIM include a change in work ethic or workflow and a required internal and external education about BIM. The education is needed for a user to maximize the efficiency and use of BIM. These cons affect how a company sells its services and requires the company or firm to allocate their project budgets differently.
Programming using CAD software enables a user to design a part or building with ease, however this quality is also its biggest drawback. Less experienced engineers are able to create designs that appear to be ideal and suited for manufacturing, but in actuality, they cannot. CAD allows a user to “simply mate two parts” (Webster) that touch and are flush with one another. In the real world, those two components need to be bonded by means of welding, adhesives or fasteners. The use of CAD leaves a lot of discrepancies, due to lack of details that are addressed by the contractor in the field. These "on the fly" changes, in turn cause a waste in productivity, time and money. In contrast, CAD today enables designers to create free-flowing shapes in addition to contours and blended angles that add a sense of creativity and individuality. The advancements in CAD over the past 20 years have given features like documentation tracking for project files.
The biggest asset that BIM has is the ability to test your building before it is even built. Its virtual construction allows for accurate testing for heating and cooling, solar gains, orientation efficiency and much more. In addition, BIM design is much more exact than CAD drafting. The 3D model allows for much better analysis of building systems and quantifiable data. The negative impacts of BIM include a change in work ethic or workflow and a required internal and external education about BIM. The education is needed for a user to maximize the efficiency and use of BIM. These cons affect how a company sells its services and requires the company or firm to allocate their project budgets differently.
From reading Esther's blog post, BIM's reliance on databases allows it to create various schedules with ease. In addition, the ability of parametric modeling which modifies all common elements when a parameter of that element is changed. After reading Michael's blog, trend within the building can be monitored using BIM and the building can adapt to make changes to the indoor environment to prevent energy waste.
Sources:
1. Webster, Dave. "Keys to a Successful BIM Implementation: BIM vs. CAD: Really…What’s the Difference?" MasterGraphics Weblog RSS. AEC Industry, 26 Oct. 2011. Web. 23 Jan. 2014.
2. Thilmany, Jean. "Pros and Cons of CAD." ASME. ASME, Mar. 2011. Web. 23 Jan. 2014.
3. "NEWS." Understanding BIM vs. CAD: NEI Electic in Minnestoa and Wisconsin. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Jan. 2014.
Comments:
Esther's blog:
I liked how you added that diagram to support your findings. The BIM workflow line is very interesting to me because of how effective it is in regards to all the project phases. In addition, I didn't know that BIM databases provide information such as the cubic feet of concrete for walls. Information like that is extremely beneficial for material costs.
http://ae-510-ay13-14.blogspot.com/2014/01/group-bim-vs-drafting-advantages-and.html?showComment=1390926036605#c4504943573435964367
Melanie's blog:
f there isn't a BIM software standard, what are the most popular BIM software on the market today? Also, does the learning curve time differ for each BIM software?
http://ae-510-ay13-14.blogspot.com/2014/01/ways-that-bim-makes-engineers-work.html?showComment=1390926737346#c6006029837994680049
Michael's blog
I agree with you on how BIM can increase energy efficiency within a building by addressing thermal comfort better than typical HVAC systems today. The data gathered from the building in regards to solar heat gains, open windows, low activity, etc. all provide a means to reduce energy consumption and costs. I also agree about the trends of occupancy rate and other trends that will eventually need to be monitored to prevent wasted energy in order to effectively condition the indoor environment, when inhabited.
Esther's blog:
I liked how you added that diagram to support your findings. The BIM workflow line is very interesting to me because of how effective it is in regards to all the project phases. In addition, I didn't know that BIM databases provide information such as the cubic feet of concrete for walls. Information like that is extremely beneficial for material costs.
http://ae-510-ay13-14.blogspot.com/2014/01/group-bim-vs-drafting-advantages-and.html?showComment=1390926036605#c4504943573435964367
Melanie's blog:
f there isn't a BIM software standard, what are the most popular BIM software on the market today? Also, does the learning curve time differ for each BIM software?
http://ae-510-ay13-14.blogspot.com/2014/01/ways-that-bim-makes-engineers-work.html?showComment=1390926737346#c6006029837994680049
Michael's blog
I agree with you on how BIM can increase energy efficiency within a building by addressing thermal comfort better than typical HVAC systems today. The data gathered from the building in regards to solar heat gains, open windows, low activity, etc. all provide a means to reduce energy consumption and costs. I also agree about the trends of occupancy rate and other trends that will eventually need to be monitored to prevent wasted energy in order to effectively condition the indoor environment, when inhabited.
http://ae-510-ay13-14.blogspot.com/2014/01/week-4-bim-will-improve-buildings.html?showComment=1390927655770#c8298848065309071676
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