Previously, I have extensively discussed the topic of BIM model development. For those interested, related articles are recommended at the end of this post. Today, we will explore the standardized system for establishing BIM models, using architecture and structure as examples.
1. BIM Building Model Modeling Specification System
(1) Architectural modeling proceeds through several stages: conceptual design, preliminary (basic) design, detailed design, construction, and completion. At each stage, models are created based on BIM delivery requirements.
(2) Cast and prefabricated building components can be incorporated into the BIM model as placed objects.
(3) Building components must be constructed using the appropriate tools. If existing tools are insufficient, alternative tools may be used, but the component’s “type” should be clearly defined accordingly.
(4) Components with dimensions smaller than the modeling requirements do not need to be modeled in 3D; instead, 2D drawings can be used for illustration.
(5) 2D detailed drawings can supplement the BIM model to provide further clarification.
(6) Building components should be modeled separately for each floor.
(7) Parameter requirements include type, material ID, and size, where the “type” parameter serves as the basis for quantity extraction.
(8) When multiple tools can be used to model a component, the finished component should be clearly categorized by its “type.” For example, if a “road” can be built using either a version tool or a beam tool, its “type” parameter should be set to “road.”
(9) Structural components must be modeled according to the dimensions provided by the structural engineer.
2. BIM Structural Modeling Specification System
(1) Structural consultants develop both a structural analysis model and a structural BIM model based on actual component locations and dimensions, generating structural files.
(2) The structural model is developed through the stages of conceptual design, preliminary design, detailed design, construction, and completion, following BIM requirements at each phase.
(3) Precast and prefabricated structural components may be designed using specialized tools and integrated into the structural BIM model after construction.
(4) The structural BIM model includes all load-bearing concrete, wood, and steel elements, as well as non-load-bearing concrete structures. Basic components such as walls, slabs, beams, and lattice frames should be modeled using the appropriate tools (e.g., wall and slab tools). If specific tools are unavailable, alternative tools may be used, but the “type” of the component must be clearly defined.
(5) The structural model can be subdivided according to structural approval stages.
(6) Detailed modeling of steel bars and joints should be created using suitable tools during the detailed design phase.
(7) Components smaller than the modeling threshold—for example, less than 10 centimeters—do not need to be modeled in 3D and can be represented with 2D drawings.
(8) 2D graphics can be used for load planning purposes.
(9) When BIM modeling tools are limited, 2D drawings should be used for column details, including shape and cross-section.
(10) Structural components should be organized by floor level.
(11) Required parameters include type, material, ID code, and size, with “type” used for quantity extraction.
(12) If multiple tools can create a component, the completed component must be clearly identified by its “type.” For instance, after constructing a roof truss from individual beams, these should be grouped and defined as a “Truss.”
That concludes our discussion on the standardized system for establishing BIM models, taking architecture and structure as examples. I hope this article is helpful to everyone!
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