Integrated BIM Models for 4D Process Management and 5D Budget Control

How to Establish BIM 4D Process Management and 5D Budget Management Models

Using a 4D construction management system for cost control offers significant advantages over traditional methods that rely on text and charts:

• Visualization: Different colors can be assigned to display and simulate the current status of the project.
• Objectivity: Leveraging 3D models allows for precise quantification of engineering tasks, facilitating accurate calculation of quantities and costs.
• Integration: Combining progress and cost dimensions enables earned value analysis to measure project execution percentages, quantifying both progress and costs to provide clear performance indicators.

1. Import Scheduling and Model Information

Start by importing the completed building model into Navisworks software. Then, import the project schedule into the Timeliner. Ensure that the content and fields in the active projects align properly with the progress data. After importing, rebuild the work interface layer and synchronize to complete the schedule import process.

2. Specify Job Types

Once the BIM model and schedule are imported, define activity projects by assigning work types, actual construction periods, costs, component attachments, simulation animations, and output construction simulation videos. Below is an explanation of each step:

3. Activity Project Setup

After importing the project schedule and Gantt chart into the Timeliner progress window, synchronize the data. For each activity project, select the work type from the dropdown list. The following three work types should be predefined in the Timeliner progress window:

1. Construction
2. Demolition
3. Temporary

4. Set Actual Construction Period

Establish project progress and export Gantt charts, then import them into Navisworks software. Set the actual start and end dates to clearly understand the duration in days. After defining work types, assign them to each activity project in the schedule so the model visually reflects the corresponding work. Work types can be created or modified in the planning tab, with model blocks distinguished by color.

5. Import Cost Data

Using the cost allocation process from the engineering quantity calculation and budget tables, assign costs to each scheduled activity project. Import these amounts into Navisworks software, categorized into labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and total costs. The total cost is then displayed clearly.

6. Component Attachment

Before running simulation animations, select and attach components to each activity project. Match the process with corresponding model components by linking activity items in the Timeliner, integrating progress with the model visually.

7. Simulation Animation Settings

Use Timeliner to set the duration of the animation, specifying start and end times for the video capture. You can output animations from different perspectives and define playback intervals, either as a percentage of the total duration or fixed periods (days, weeks, etc.). Simulations can be played offline to dynamically present project progress.

Click ‘Edit’ in the simulation settings dialog to customize annotations, dates, times, and costs shown during the animation. Key points to verify when setting up simulations:

1. Does the process correspond accurately to the model during playback?
2. Are the durations consistent with actual construction days?
3. Do the costs align with the schedule?
4. Does the cumulative simulated cost match the actual construction budget?

8. Export Construction Simulation Animation

After completing the animation, export it as an AVI file or an image sequence. Then review the 4D construction simulation. When exporting, set the viewpoint and select the source type:

1. Current Animator Scene: Exports the selected object animation
2. Timeline Simulation: Exports the selected Timeliner sequence
3. Current Animation: Exports the selected viewpoint animation

That concludes the overview of how to establish BIM 4D process management and 5D budget management models. I hope this guide helps you understand and implement these advanced BIM management techniques!

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