What is a BIM Tool? What is its Origin?
Sutherland (2003), a pioneer in computer graphics, utilized vector systems to run Sketchpad programs on the TX-2 at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. This work laid the foundation for computer-aided drawing tools. In the 1980s, commercial companies began offering standardized computer operating platforms and drawing standards. Finkelstein (2007) noted that AutoCAD 1.0 was developed in 1982 using DOS. After Microsoft released Windows in 1985, AutoCAD introduced graphical interface dialog boxes in 1988.
The emergence of commercial drawing software centered on 3D design marked the beginning of the 3D drawing era. This led to specialized drawing software tailored for fields like mechanical and electrical engineering, architecture, and civil engineering. In 1986, Bently MicroStation became the first commercial software designed for three-dimensional drawing. Shreiner et al. (2003) introduced OpenGL in 1992, a cross-language and cross-platform programming interface that enabled graphic artists to render complex 3D scenes with an open and standardized approach. In the same year, Polyakov and Brusentsev (2005) introduced the GDI standard for Windows software, which renders and transfers graphic objects to output devices using GDI instructions. Kay and Muder (1996) developed the VRML 1.0 format standard in 1994 for describing 3D graphics on the internet.
Although BIM adoption remains limited in domestic engineering industries, BIM-related software tools have gradually matured. The evolution began with traditional 2D drawing tools. In 1998, inconsistent data formats in 3D graphics hindered development. To address this, the W3C organization published the XML syntax standard, facilitating file information exchange. That same year saw the development of 3D drawing and rendering software such as Blender and 4D Annotator. In 2000, AutoDesk launched Revit, and by 2007, software like 3Ds MAX 10.0, Revit Structure, and Revit MEP had been developed. The progression from 2D graphics to multidimensional operating environments highlights software developers’ commitment to creating faster, more convenient drawing tools.
In the mid-1990s, many 3D drawing systems were introduced, and the academic community began exploring four-dimensional computer drawing systems. Zerbst (2006) developed Direct3D, a 3D drawing programming interface for Microsoft Windows in the same period. Murdock (2008) released 3Ds MAX 1.0 in 1996, compatible with both Win32 and Win64 platforms. However, inconsistent 3D graphics data formats continued to challenge tool development. Hunter et al. (2007) officially announced the XML syntax standard by W3C, a system that defines languages to promote standardized file and message exchange across domains.
Since 2000, 3D model automation has steadily advanced. Beyond improving image technology, these tools began assisting with design change verification. For example, Intergraph developed SmartPlant in 2000, an interactive software designed to browse complex 3D models. SmartPlant helps identify design deficiencies and supports dynamic simulations using its Schedule Review module. Dzambazova et al. (2007) highlighted that AutoDesk’s Revit, launched in 2000, facilitates smoother design changes. As 3D imaging matured, concepts like Building Information Models and multidimensional models emerged, increasing demand for visual models. Software such as Civil 3D and ConstructSim appeared in 2003, emphasizing visual representation. Stine (2007) introduced tools like Revit MEP and Revit Structure, tailored for different construction phases such as structural and pipeline design. To enhance realistic visuals, 3Ds MAX released version 10.0, offering advanced painting and color rendering features. This evolution of tools and technologies rooted in BIM concepts has significantly benefited engineering simulation. The software development timeline is illustrated in Figure 2-1.
He Guanpei (2010) categorized BIM application tools into several types: structural analysis, model clash detection, mechanical and electrical analysis, operations management and maintenance, cost management, and project design software. The main software in these categories is shown in Figure 2-2.
That concludes our overview of What is a BIM Tool? What is its Origin? I hope this article has been helpful!
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