BIM Concepts in Architectural Practice

Introduction to Building Information Modelling (BIM)

• This week's topic is Introduction to Building Information Modelling (BIM)
• The course is ARCH361 Technology 3.1: Integrated Technical Project Design
• The course is for BA Architecture Year 3 and MSc BIM and Digital Transformation students
• The semester is Semester 1, 2024-2025
• The lecturer is Dr Adonis Haidar

About the Lecturer

• Dr Adonis Haidar is a lecturer in BIM and Digital Design at the University of Liverpool
• He is also the Programme Director for the MSc BIM & Digital Transformation programme
• He has worked at the University of Salford (2014-2019)
• He was a PhD candidate in BIM & Digital Design at the University of Salford (2014-2019)
• He has a following in the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) (2015–2016)
• He has also worked at the University of Kalamoon (2010–2012)
• He holds a MSc in Digital Architectural Design from the University of Salford (2009-2010)
• He has a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) from Damascus University (1994-2000)

Agenda

• Vernacular Design
• Design by Drawing
• Benefits of Drawing in Design
• Collaboration in Architectural Practice
• Deficiencies in Collaborative Workflows
• Limitations of Drawing
• What is BIM?
• BIM Dimensions
• BIM Keywords
• BIM as a Process
• BIM Sources

Vernacular Architecture

• Vernacular architecture can be defined as a type of local or regional traditional construction
• It uses locally sourced materials and resources
• The design is closely related to its context and aware of the specific geographic features and cultural aspects of its surroundings
• Vernacular architecture is unique to different places in the world, becoming a means of reaffirming an identity

Design by Drawing

• Scale drawing offers a medium for experiments and changes that enable the accurate specification of dimensions in advanced manufacturing.
• Enhances advance planning.
• Offers freedom to alter the shape of the product allowing minor changes
• Allows for a rapidly manipulatable model of the relationship between the components, especially when it is a larger object than is manageable by a single craftsperson.
• The speed_with which drawings can be perceived and modified offers the capacity to store provisional decisions about the different parts of the design product.

Collaboration in Architectural Practice

• Architecture practices are project-driven organizations that undertake the task of identifying how risks, costs and programs are going to be managed.
• The design and hence, delivers high-quality services for their clients.
• There are managerial, financial and legal aspects to consider, in addition to the collaborative aspects.
• Coordination between stakeholders are vital, as is adherence to a construction budget, realistic fee structure, legally competent specifications and securing effective coordination between external consultants, in-house staff and clients.
• Architectural practice often requires team cooperation; interactions between different parties lead to complex processes from which building documents emerge

Inefficiencies in Collaborative Work

• Contradiction in priorities among project stakeholders, for example a design manager prioritises design quality whilst coordinating with contractors concerned with the commercial and financial impact of the project
• Dilemma associated with the criticality of decisions taken by the design team while trying to maintain quality while controlling cost and time. This is often coupled with insufficient credentials in cost and time management.
• The need for better predictability in early design stages to improve the efficiency of coordination
• The limitations of drawings often create complexities in collaboration, impacting efficiency

BIM Dimensions

• 3D Modelling
• CAD
• 4D Modelling
• 5D Modelling
• 6D Modelling
• 7D Modelling
• 8D Modelling
• nD Modelling
• Geometry
• Geometry + Information

BIM Objects

• BIM objects are intelligent objects that depict the product or material in the digital world, combining visualization data, metadata, and behavioral data.
• These objects provide a detailed representation of actual objects in the real-world based on the physical appearance of the product.
• Metadata includes information about categories, materials, classifications, and the anticipated lifetime of objects
• The different types of BIM objects include component objects, and material or layered objects.

BIM Authoring Tools

• Software tools used to generate 2D and 3D models (i.e. geometric data) and scheduling, cost, maintenance, operational and sustainability data (i.e. non-geometric data) for the asset lifecycle
• The software organises the model by objects, attributes and relationships.

BIM vs CAD Modelling

• CAD models use generic geometry that consists of separate components, while in BIM the components form a single object with relevant information

BIM Parametric Tools

• Parametric features incorporate parameters linked to the project
• Example: A Door that is located at a fixed dimension from a perpendicular partition to maintain this relationship when the partition is moved

BIM Keywords, Sources and Case Studies

• Keywords: Collaboration, Coordination, Synchronisation, Integration, Information, Data, Digital, Automation.
• Sources: Websites (links provided), NBS National BIM Library, buildingSMART International, UK BIM Alliance, Centre for Digital Built Britain.
• Case Studies: Dongdaemum design plaza, Zaha Hadid Architects, National Children's Hospital, Dublin, Hyundai Motorstudio, Teyon

BIM as a Process

• Rethinking and redefining the concept of project delivery and project information management as a modeling technique
• Includes: ISO19650 series, Standards, New Business Models, Integrated Project Delivery

Test your understanding of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its implications in architectural practice. This quiz covers essential definitions, benefits, limitations, and collaboration aspects of BIM. Delve into the significant components and challenges of BIM to enhance your architectural knowledge.