The primary advantages of BIM technology during the calculation phase are its ability to support multi-purpose initial mock examinations and perform collision detection. As the term suggests, a single model can serve multiple functions. For example, consider a residential building project in Tianjin. First, a structural model is created using AUTOREVIT software, as shown in Figure 1. Based on this structural model, an electromechanical model is developed, and an interactive file is exported from REVIT.
This interactive file is then imported into BIM civil engineering calculation software, as illustrated in Figure 3. Relevant information is entered for each component, including room decoration, plastering thickness, skirting production, and associated list quotas, enabling the generation of a detailed civil engineering calculation report. Next, the 3D model is imported into BIM steel bar calculation software, where steel bar details for components such as columns, beams, slabs, and foundations are input to compile a comprehensive report.
Following this, the electromechanical model is imported into BIM installation calculation software for further calculations. This stage includes collision, omission, and attribute detection to ensure accuracy and completeness before summarizing and calculating the installation list. Finally, the data is transferred to pricing software to generate the engineering control price report.
Traditionally, engineering quantity calculations are done manually or with specialized software such as steel bar calculation software, civil engineering calculation software, and installation calculation software. The conventional process begins with modeling in the steel bar calculation software based on design drawings. Steel bar details from components like columns, beams, slabs, and foundations are entered, and a steel bar report is generated.
Next, civil engineering calculation software is used for graphical modeling. Lists and quotas are applied according to different methods for components such as floors and rooms, resulting in a summarized list and quota report. Finally, installation calculation software processes electrical, heating, and communication drawings to model systems like water supply and drainage, heating and gas, electrical, fire protection, and HVAC. After summarizing, an installation report is produced. Once quantities for steel bars, civil engineering, and installation are obtained, they are imported into pricing software to generate the engineering control price report.
Compared to traditional methods, BIM technology streamlines the calculation phase by eliminating tedious modeling steps. It standardizes and simplifies the process, reducing errors caused by human oversight. Furthermore, by establishing the electromechanical model on top of the structural model, BIM enables early collision detection, preventing issues such as quantity changes and rework due to design conflicts in later stages.
In summary, these are the key advantages of BIM technology during the calculation phase. I hope this article proves helpful to everyone!
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