BIM Q&A | What Are BIM Application Software?
Here is an introduction to commonly used BIM software. First of all, BIM is a concept, and various software are merely tools to implement this concept. It is important not to equate BIM with mainstream software—they are not the same. Just as CAD is not synonymous with design, BIM represents a broader methodology beyond specific software tools.
Below, we introduce some of the leading BIM-related software currently available on the market:
1. Modeling Software
Revit: Developed by Autodesk, Revit is the leading BIM modeling software in China. It primarily supports building information modeling and serves as a comprehensive design and documentation platform for building projects. Revit covers three main disciplines: architecture, structural engineering, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering. It performs well with conventional building models but can struggle with irregular or oversized models.
Bentley: Bentley Systems offers software that is less commonly used in China but focuses on infrastructure projects, offshore oil development, and factory construction. It is known for its robust engineering applications in these sectors.
Civil 3D: Also an Autodesk product, Civil 3D specializes in terrain and site modeling, particularly for large-scale infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and tunnels. It is widely used for road modeling, earthwork calculations, and stormwater analysis, often referred to as geospatial design software.
Tekla: Produced by Tekla, this software focuses on steel structure detailing. It integrates 3D solid structural models with structural analysis, providing detailed design capabilities for steel and reinforced concrete structures. Tekla is the most widely used BIM software for steel structures in China.
Dassault and Rhino: These are less commonly used in BIM workflows. Dassault software excels in handling ultra-large datasets and offers strong parametric design capabilities. Rhino is mainly utilized for detailed modeling and animation production.
2. Collision Detection Software
Navisworks: Owned by Autodesk, Navisworks is primarily used for detecting clashes between different disciplines after Revit modeling is complete. It helps coordinate and resolve conflicts in complex building projects.
Bentley: Bentley also offers collision detection tools, complementing their modeling software suite.
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