Currently, there are several outstanding examples of BIM technology being used for design projects both domestically and internationally.
(1) Atlanta’s Menard Airport New Terminal, Georgia, USA
The new terminal at Menard Airport in Atlanta was designed using BIM technology, requiring all subcontractors and related construction teams to utilize BIM information models. Revit modeling software and Navisworks software were used for clash detection, as well as for construction scheduling and coordination.
Implementing BIM technology greatly enhanced the coordination among multiple disciplines involved in building the new international terminal. These included architecture, concrete and steel structures, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, special equipment, and baggage handling systems.
(2) China Zun Tower, Beijing CBD
Located on the Z15 plot in the heart of Beijing’s Central Business District, China Zun features a unique design supported by BIM technology. The project utilized a BIM database to extract detailed data of surrounding buildings and site information, creating comprehensive models of nearby structures and integrating underground spaces.
This detailed modeling allowed seamless connection to the surrounding urban environment and municipal pipelines, helping to evaluate and control the impact of the building design on its surroundings.
During architectural design, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology was applied to simulate, analyze, and optimize the tower’s shape, providing crucial technical support for site planning.
As a supertall skyscraper reaching 528 meters, China Zun has complex systems, especially within its electromechanical design. Each vertical section includes an equipment floor dedicated to centralized mechanical and electrical installations. Core mechanical and electrical rooms are located in the underground parking area.
The electromechanical system is anchored around the basement computer room, which feeds real-time data into the BIM platform based on Revit software. This setup facilitates comprehensive integration and monitoring of the electromechanical systems. Notably, the B007 floor features a complex mechanical and electrical layout with a relatively low floor height. BIM technology was employed here to optimize and streamline piping, ensuring proper installation and operation while preserving warehouse space and maximizing project value.
The China Zun project team engaged multiple consulting firms to ensure high-quality design outcomes. These consultants used BIM for simulation and analysis. For example, the fire safety consultant used BIM software to simulate evacuation scenarios in critical building areas and assess fire safety performance. They also analyzed evacuation patterns under different fire conditions and studied elevator operation strategies during evacuations.
Additionally, Ecotect analysis software was used to assess sunlight exposure across various office zones on standard floors, leading to optimized indoor lighting designs and shading components. Cooling tower performance was evaluated to guarantee effective operation. By simulating airflow in special spaces like the lobby and observation deck, the HVAC design’s comfort and efficiency were significantly improved.
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