Building Information Modelling (BIM) is revolutionising the way buildings and infrastructure are designed, constructed, and managed. It’s a service that Rossi Long has offered to our clients for many years helping to boost productivity and enhance coordination.
We caught up with our BIM Manager, to find out all about this area of engineering.
What is BIM?
BIM, which stands for Building Information Modelling, is a digital tool that represents a building or infrastructure project.
It brings together architectural, engineering, and construction data, allowing us to create a detailed 3D model. BIM provides a complete and accurate view of the design, construction, and operation stages of a project.
Why is BIM such a valuable tool in construction and engineering?
There are four main reasons why it’s such a usual tool in designing buildings and infrastructure.
BIM allows us to collaborate with other designers and project stakeholders (architects, mechanical engineers, specialist designers, contractors and clients) to share model information on a regular basis throughout the project. By sharing the model throughout the project, it helps reduce misunderstandings and errors, leading to a more efficient workflow.
BIM allows for more detailed and accurate design and planning. Together with the design team, we can visualise the project in 3D, identify potential conflicts early on. This allows for better decision-making regarding materials, systems, and construction methods.
BIM helps us transfer design data seamlessly between analysis software and BIM tools like Autodesk Revit. This leads to more accurate, optimised designs that can adapt to changes as they occur.
BIM provides a shared platform where all stakeholders work on the same model, ensuring everyone uses the most up-to-date information. This greatly improves communication and helps resolve design conflicts early on. By visualising the project in 3D, it's easier to discuss design changes, identify potential issues, and resolve clashes.
How does BIM benefit the Project Team?
BIM is an incredibly useful tool for understanding and visualising the structure as the design evolves. It also enhances collaboration by allowing for early design efficiencies to be explored in more detail.
Initially, Rossi Long used BIM to increase productivity by speeding up the drawing process and integrating 3D models with structural analysis software. Now, even if BIM isn’t a project requirement, we use it to create 3D structural building models for most of our medium and large projects, as well as for more complex small projects.
Over the last year, we have provided engineering support for several largescale, high-profile projects. Each of these schemes has reaped the benefits of BIM during both the design and construction phase.
How does BIM help with sustainable construction?
With the close integration of our design software to our building models, we can deliver the efficient designs that meet our clients’ needs. Additionally, we have also been able to quickly evaluate our design options to establish the most sustainable choices based on their embodied carbon using carbon calculation tools embedded within the software platforms.
How is Rossi Long using technology like AR and AI within BIM?
The primary BIM authoring software that we use is Autodesk Revit which has the advantage of seamlessly integrating with Augmented reality (AR).
Once a model is created in Revit, it can be exported to AR devices like smartphones or tablets, allowing users to see how the design will look on-site or even view to walk around the building during construction.
We’re still at an early stage with AI which will no doubt change the way we work in the coming years. AI tools are already being used for tasks such as carbon analysis, advanced image rendering, and converting 2D plans into 3D models, and we’re excited to see how this technology will shape the future.
What skills and training are needed to effectively use BIM
Becoming an expert in BIM, to the point where you’re capable of handling complex projects and staying up to date with industry trends, can take several years of dedicated learning and practical experience.
Effective BIM users need strong communication skills for coordinating with project teams and solving issues, attention to detail to ensure model accuracy, and problem-solving abilities. A solid understanding of computer hardware and software is also essential for operating BIM tools and troubleshooting technical issues.
A background in civil or structural engineering is beneficial, and if you want to expand your knowledge further, a HNC or equivalent qualification in civil engineering deepen your expertise.
What training/resources does Rossi Long offer to keep staff up to date with the latest changes and trends?
At Rossi Long, we regularly assess the training needs of our team, recognising that everyone’s BIM skills and experience vary.
In-house, we provide regular technical BIM forums to knowledge share and learn best practices and we’re also subscribed to a CAD Learning platform which gives the opportunity for independent learning and growth.
We also offer staff regular training opportunities from our software supplier and share knowledge across the team from internet-based sources.
What does the future hold for BIM?
AI and machine learning, which can automate tasks and provide predictive analytics, is definitely one to watch. Virtual Reality (VR) will also play a significant role, enabling real-time collaboration and immersive design experiences.
BIM will continue to be crucial for construction management, with applications in construction sequencing, prefabrication, and modular construction. It’ll be essential for sustainable design and building performance, as it allows for energy modelling and lifecycle assessment. Digital twins, virtual replicas of physical assets, will enable real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.
We'll be staying informed about these trends and preparing for future challenges through continuous training and evaluation of new software solutions so we can effectively leverage BIM and contribute to successful projects.
Rossi Long is committed to staying at the forefront of these trends, continuously training our team and exploring new technologies to ensure we effectively leverage BIM and contribute to successful projects.