What is 4D BIM?
4D BIM is the process of using 3D models, combined with time and schedule-related information such as programs, site surveys, logistic models to create a virtual construction sequence. This is virtual model represents the physical characteristic of the building along with the construction schedule. While some project teams are using 4D BIM to optimize the delivery schedule with optimized material resources, at present it is most commonly used to win the projects. 4D BIM is an extremely powerful tool to manage both man and material at site.
The incorporation of time related information can provide stakeholders with an accurate depiction of the way in which the building structure and filed will look like at every step of the process. This can boost productivity and push for a safer and most straight forward planning process.
Benefits of Using 4D BIM
- Planning:
It can lock the ambiguity and uncertainty of the project. It incorporates the time component into the 3D model. The 4D BIM simulation is excellent at pinpointing the precise amount of time required for various building process including lead time, installation time and others. Through 4D BIM the stakeholders can get an exhaustive image of the project from design stage to completion stage.
- All Stakeholders are on the same page:
Keeping everybody up to date on the latest changes in the construction end with number of meetings, countless hours of calls between the stakeholders. 4D BIM gives valuable assistance to minimize the meetings and calls. The visualization of the progress and changes can be monitored through 4D BIM models. This creates stronger connection between the project’s execution team and back office also minimizes the dispute.
- Project Monitoring:
Regardless of the size of the project it is difficult to keep a close eye on every aspect of the project. 4D BIM progress monitoring shows the critical path of the project thus enables the owner and the stakeholders for phasing the schedule. We can identify and resolve the space and workspace conflicts ahead of the project execution. Though monitoring process there is increase in the productivity with minimize the waste.
- Conflict Prevention and Resolution:
Construction conflicts remains the main bottleneck to increase the construction quality and efficiency. The existence of a shared information model adds transparency and clearly articulates the responsibilities of all those involved. Any addition or changes to the project can easily traced back to the responsible person. The 4D BIM simulation software can identify and solve the possible conflicts and federate different 3D BIM Model.
- Safer Data and Construction Sites:
The construction animation sequence for monitoring the progress on the field can have great benefits for the safety of the site both in terms of project data breach and construction site safety.
- Future Trends and Development:
BIM and 4D planning are the future of the project success. Many believe that BIM is a technology or simple evolution of 3D modelling. However, BIM is actual process across project lifecycle from concept to information management, from 3D modelling to project planning and monitoring. BIM provides the single source of truth as everybody is working on the same model, access the same live data and collaborating with each other remove conflict and increase the efficiency of project delivery.
