What Are the Industry Standards for Delivering BIM Models in Construction?

BIM models play a crucial role in carrying project data and information throughout construction. Although delivery standards are strict, China currently lacks clear, standardized rules for BIM model delivery, focusing more on visual aspects. In this article, the author will discuss the delivery standards for BIM models during construction.

1. Architectural Modeling Standards

Precast and prefabricated building components can be placed as objects within BIM models.

Building components must be created using the appropriate tools. If existing tools are insufficient, alternative tools may be used, but the “type” of the object must be properly defined.

Components smaller than the modeling requirements do not need to be modeled; instead, 2D diagrams should be used to provide supplementary explanations.

2D detailed drawings can also supplement the BIM model for clarity.

Building components should be modeled separately for each floor.

Required parameters include type, material ID, and size, with the “type” parameter serving as the basis for quantity extraction.

If multiple tools can be used to create a component, the finished component should be clearly identified by its “type”. For example, if a “road” can be modeled using either version or beam tools, the “type” parameter for the completed “road” should be set to “road”.

Structural components should be modeled according to the dimensions provided by the structural engineer.

2. Structural Modeling Standards

The contractor and subcontractor must collaboratively adjust the detailed model to align with the construction assembly method. If necessary, the structural model should be enhanced with manufacturing drawings.

The structural consultant is responsible for creating both a structural analysis model and a structural BIM model based on actual component positions and dimensions, generating structural files.

Precast and prefabricated structural components can be designed using specialized tools and later integrated into the structural BIM model.

The structural BIM model includes all load-bearing concrete, wood, and steel structures, as well as non-load-bearing concrete elements. Basic components include walls, slabs, beams, and lattice frames, which should be modeled using the correct tools. If appropriate tools are unavailable, other suitable tools may be used, provided the component’s “type” is clearly defined.

The structural model can be divided into different stages according to structural approval requirements.

Detailed modeling of steel bars and joints can be completed during the detailed design phase using appropriate modeling tools.

Components smaller than modeling requirements (e.g., under 10 centimeters) do not require modeling and can be supplemented with 2D diagrams.

2D diagrams can also be used for load planning.

If BIM modeling tools are limited, 2D drawings should be used to create column details, including column shape and cross-section.

Structural components should be organized by floor levels.

Required parameters include type, material, ID code, and size, with the “type” parameter used for quantity extraction.

If multiple tools can create a component, it must be clearly defined by its “type”. For example, after building a roof truss from individual beams, these elements should be grouped and their “type” set as “Truss.”

3. MEP Modeling Standards

1. Air Conditioning and Mechanical Ventilation

• Model parts that require special attention.
• Clearly indicate any changes made by the construction contractor and approved by the engineering consultant.
• Objects not available in BIM tools can be represented by box shapes, which should be labeled with names and appropriate parameters.
• Elevations of each system component must be clearly marked, based on the finished floor level or other reference planes.
• If necessary, models of fasteners and hanging parts can be created.

2. Water Supply, Drainage, and Sewage

• Strengthen organizational structure by paying special attention to certain aspects.
• Clearly indicate parts changed by the contractor and approved by the engineering consultant.
• Replace unavailable objects with labeled box shapes including proper parameters.
• Mark elevations clearly based on the completed floor level or other reference planes.
• Build models of fasteners and hanging parts if necessary.

3. Fire Protection System

• Model components requiring special attention.
• Clearly mark changes approved by the engineering consultant.
• Unavailable BIM objects can be replaced with labeled box shapes, with appropriate parameters.
• Elevations must be clearly indicated relative to the finished floor or reference planes.
• Include models of fasteners and hanging parts if needed.

4. Power System

• Model parts requiring special attention.
• Clearly identify changes approved by the engineering consultant.
• Use labeled box shapes for unavailable objects, including necessary parameters.
• Clearly indicate elevations based on finished floor levels or reference planes.
• Create fastener and hanging part models if necessary.

5. Intelligent Device System

• Model parts that require special attention.
• Clearly indicate changes approved by the engineering consultant.
• Unavailable objects in BIM tools can be replaced with labeled box shapes, including appropriate parameters.
• Clearly mark elevations based on completed floor levels or reference planes.
• Create models for fasteners and hanging parts if needed.

That concludes the overview of delivery standards for BIM models in construction. I hope this article has been helpful!

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