BIM DIMENSIONS: 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D

Building Information Models provide the process of generating both graphical and non-graphical information in a Common Data Environment (CDE).
3D model represents the graphical information and the corresponding data, in the form of structured BIM dimensions, performs the non-graphical information. BIM dimensions – 3D, 4D, 5D and 6D enhance the data of a model in order to understand better a construction project. Adding extra information to data allows to find out how the project will be delivered, what it will cost and how it should be maintained.

BIM 3D – A COORDINATED MODEL

3D BIM is an anchor of taking the building from concept to completion. It contains a combination of the working projects in the same virtual environment with all the necessary elements in three dimensions.
3D models are generated for schematic design, construction documentation, design development and record drawings. Also using 3D allows team members to understand and critique the current design.

BENEFITS OF 3D BIM:
3D visualization during the entire project;
◆ Effective collaboration between multiple teams;
◆ Checked for collisions;
◆ Easy communication and sharing of design expectations;
◆ Complete transparency provides reduced instances of rework;
◆ Modeling of the environmental impacts.

BIM 4D = 3D + SCHEDULE

4D BIM reveals an extra dimension of information in the form of scheduling data. It gives an opportunity to show how construction will develop sequentially due to visualizations and certain program information. By the way, being able to prototype how assets come together before ground is broken on site allows for feedback at an early stage and avoids rework.
Time-related information consists of: lead time, schedule, web-calendars and logistics management. It allows builders and engineers to keep track events taking place inside the project not only in the design phase, but also at tender stage.

BENEFITS OF 4D BIM:
◆ Improved site planning and scheduling of all stages;
◆ Increased quality of planning;
◆ Effective cooperation between the stakeholders;
◆ Timeline expectations minimize disputes and costly delays;
◆ Safety according to documentation of entire plan with specific timelines.

BIM 5D = 4D + ESTIMATE

5D BIM functionality integrates design, cost and schedule in a 3D output. This model is aimed at: forecasting the financial flows, unloading volumes of materials/work/equipment for cost modeling and controlling project cost. By the way, cost managers can extrapolate the quantities of a given component on a project, applying rates to those quantities and reaching an overall cost for the development. In addition, 5D BIM lets architects to show the clients the relation between alternative design selections and cost. What is more, any 5D BIM software supports a multitude of BIM native files, such as DWG, IFC and SketchUp in order to provide file interoperability.

BENEFITS OF 5D BIM:
◆ Real-time cost visualization;
◆ Positive ROI;
◆ Project scope understanding;
◆ Minimization of budgetary offshoot;
◆ Simplified cost analysis;
◆ Shorter project cycles.

BIM 6D – FACILITY MANAGEMENT

6D BIM combines cost analysis in 5D BIM model with linked data to use BIM Construction Project Management Software, integrated with 3D BIM model. It means to link the individual 3D CAD components with all aspects of project lifecycle management information.
6D BIM involves the insertion of information to hold up facilities management and operation to drive better business upshots. This type of BIM dimension provides a better understanding of extrapolating information and gives an access to a scope of built assets arrangements.

BENEFITS OF 6D BIM:
◆ Long-term virtual building;
◆ Localized construction information;
◆ Pre-planning of maintenance activities;
◆ Faster and more accurate decision making;
◆ Detailed analysis of economic and operational aspects during the project lifecycle.