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Types of BIM

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The BIM Engineers
13 January 2023

There are several different types of BIM, which can be grouped into two main categories:

  • Levels of BIM: These refer to the level of detail and complexity of the BIM model, and are typically described as Level 0, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Level 0 is the most basic and consists of simple 2D drawings or sketches, while Level 3 is the most advanced and includes a complete and detailed 3D model of the building or infrastructure project.
  • Types of BIM: These refer to the specific type of information that is included in the BIM model, and can include architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) information, as well as information about the building's construction and performance.

Overall, the type and level of BIM that is used for a particular project will depend on the specific needs and goals of the project, as well as the capabilities and preferences of the project team.

Levels of BIM

Levels of BIM refer to the level of detail and complexity of the BIM model, and are typically described as Level 0, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. These levels are defined as follows:

  • Level 0: This is the most basic level of BIM, and consists of simple 2D drawings or sketches that provide a general overview of the building or infrastructure project.
  • Level 1: This level adds more detail to the BIM model, and includes the creation of separate models for each of the building's disciplines, such as architecture, structure, and MEP systems.
  • Level 2: This level involves the integration of the different discipline-specific models into a single, coordinated model. It also includes the use of standard data formats and protocols to ensure that the model can be shared and accessed by all project stakeholders.
  • Level 3: This is the most advanced level of BIM, and involves the creation of a complete and detailed 3D model of the building or infrastructure project. This model includes all of the information from the lower levels, as well as additional data about the building's performance and lifecycle.

Overall, the level of BIM that is used for a particular project will depend on the specific needs and goals of the project, as well as the capabilities and preferences of the project team.

Information in levels of BIM

The level of BIM that contains the most detailed and complex information is Level 3 BIM. This level involves the creation of a complete and detailed 3D model of the building or infrastructure project, which includes all of the information from the lower levels (Level 0, Level 1, and Level 2), as well as additional data about the building's performance and lifecycle.

Level 3 BIM typically includes detailed information about the building's layout, spatial relationships, and architectural elements, as well as information about the building's structural components, MEP systems, construction, and performance. This level of BIM allows for the most comprehensive and accurate representation of the building or infrastructure project, and enables the evaluation of different design options and the identification of potential problems.


Overall, the level of detail and complexity of the BIM model will depend on the specific needs and goals of the project, as well as the capabilities and preferences of the project team.

BIM and LOD

LOD and BIM are related but distinct concepts. LOD stands for Level of Development, and refers to the level of detail and precision of the information included in a BIM model. BIM, on the other hand, refers to the process of creating and managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of places, and can include a range of different LODs depending on the specific needs and goals of the project.

In general, the LOD of a BIM model increases as the project progresses from concept to design to construction. For example, a BIM model at the conceptual stage of a project may have a lower LOD, with less detailed and precise information, while a BIM model at the construction stage may have a higher LOD, with more detailed and precise information.

Overall, LOD and BIM are related in that LOD is a measure of the level of detail and precision of the information included in a BIM model, and BIM is the process of creating and managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of places.

How do you combine levels of BIM and LOD?

To combine LOD and BIM, you would first need to determine the appropriate LOD for the BIM model based on the specific needs and goals of the project. This will typically involve evaluating the stage of the project (conceptual, design, construction, etc.), the level of detail and precision that is required, and the capabilities and preferences of the project team.

Once the appropriate LOD has been determined, you can use BIM software to create and manage a digital model of the building or infrastructure project that includes the required level of detail and precision. This model can then be used by all project stakeholders to support decision making, coordination, and communication throughout the project.

Additionally, you can use BIM tools and features, such as collaboration and communication tools, simulation and analysis tools, and data management and reporting tools, to support the integration and coordination of the LOD and BIM model. This can help to ensure that the model is accurate, consistent, and accessible to all project stakeholders.

Overall, combining LOD and BIM involves determining the appropriate LOD for the project, using BIM software to create and manage a digital model with the required level of detail and precision, and using BIM tools and features to support the integration and coordination of the model.


Project detail of BIM

There are several different types of Level 3 BIM, which are typically defined based on the type of information that is included in the BIM model. Some of the most common types of Level 3 BIM include:

Architectural BIM: This type of BIM includes detailed information about the building's layout, spatial relationships, and architectural elements, such as walls, windows, and doors.

Structural BIM: This type of BIM includes detailed information about the building's structural components, such as columns, beams, and foundations.

MEP BIM: This type of BIM includes detailed information about the building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and piping.

Construction BIM: This type of BIM includes detailed information about the building's construction, such as materials, schedules, and budgets.

Performance BIM: This type of BIM includes detailed information about the building's performance, such as energy consumption, acoustics, and indoor air quality.

 

Overall, the specific type of Level 3 BIM that is used for a particular project will depend on the specific needs and goals of the project, as well as the capabilities and preferences of the project team.