In 1975, Professor Chuck Eastman from Carnegie Mellon University introduced the concept of BIM technology, based on the “Building Description System” theory. BIM’s modeling technology is parametric, requiring the organization of data through building-related knowledge and rules, centered around a building component database.
At its core, BIM is a multidimensional database, incorporating 2D, 3D, and 4D representations that serve as different expressions of the BIM database. These databases can be processed to support various engineering applications. The definition of BIM can thus be summarized as follows:
(1) The BIM database primarily focuses on product models and is not a complete database on its own; rather, it forms part of the overall engineering project database.
(2) BIM offers capabilities such as automatic calculations, querying, and real-time data analysis. It provides comprehensive descriptions of engineering objects, functioning as an integrated information technology model that encompasses all data throughout a construction project’s entire lifecycle.
(3) BIM provides platforms for information sharing, coordination management, and engineering design. It maintains consistent and compatible engineering data across different software platforms. For example, models created in other software can be imported into a BIM platform for seamless data sharing.
(4) BIM databases are developed using parametric feature modeling technology. BIM models include not only geometric information but also non-geometric data such as materials and management details. Additionally, custom information can be added to individual components.
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