Why is BIM hailed as the future of Construction (Part 3)?

Posted on: February 15, 2019, By: Dhvani Badheka

Click here to read: Why is BIM hailed as the future of Construction (Part 1)…

Click here to read: Why is BIM hailed as the future of Construction (Part 2)…

We had discussed BIM Level 0, Level 1, and Level 2 in the previous articles of this series (you can read them from the links above). We now move on to understand BIM Level 3 and the different Levels of Detailing (LOD) used in BIM Modeling.

4. BIM Level 3

UK has been at the forefront when it comes to adopting BIM technologies. Currently at BIM Level 2, efforts are on to move on to the next stage. Though BIM Level 3 has not yet been defined fully, the UK government has outlined its vision in its Level 3 Strategic Plan. What distinguishes BIM Level 3 from Level 2 is that it is an integrated cloud-based approach which focuses on transactability and interoperability of data. It connects the entire data chain fully through a 3D intelligent cloud-based model thereby creating end-to-end efficiencies.

As opposed to BIM Level 2, all the participants of BIM Level 3 work on the same model that is stored on the cloud. This means that there is no need to create a separate Architectural BIM model or MEP BIM model or Structural BIM model. All the data is stored on a single source that is placed on the cloud and is accessible to all the participants through the internet.

Level 3 of BIM Modeling Services allows the information to be directly transactable for all construction and operation activity including fabrication and facility management. This enables open collaboration during the entire lifecycle management of the asset. This is still in the developmental stage and is expected to be refined in the near future.

An overview of all the Levels of BIM are given below:

II. Level of Detailing (LOD)

Level of Detailing (LOD) defines and explains the model element characteristics of the building systems. It enables professionals in the AECO industry to express and specify the content and reliability of BIM at different stages in the design and construction process with precision. It helps the professionals address the following questions:

• How much detailed the model should be?
• How much data ought to be incorporated into the model?

The various Protocol Exhibits that have been developed address the additional question of assigning job responsibility to various participants of BIM Modeling. The various nuances of LOD are explained below:

1. LOD 100 (Conceptual Geometry / Symbolic Representation)

At this LOD, the elements are modeled to show its existence but not the shape, size, location, etc. It shows the generalized massing of an element and any values derived from this model are an approximation.

2. LOD 200 (Approximate Geometry / Schematic Design)

Models generated at LOD 200 represent generalized systems with ballpark quantities, size, shape, location, and orientation.

3. LOD 300 (Precise Geometry)

The elements are modeled with precise quantities, shape, size, orientation, and location. The element is modeled as per its actual dimensions and is accurately placed in the model.

4. LOD 350 (Construction Documents )

These models are used for coordination purposes. Hence, any attached or nearby elements that have relevance in BIM Coordination Services are modeled e.g. supports, connections, etc.

5. LOD 400 (Fabrication / Construction Model)

At LOD 400, the element is modeled to the level of detail and precision required necessary for fabricating the component.

6. LOD 500 (As- built Model)

These are termed as As-built models and represent the actual condition of the element.

Read: Part 4

Written By:
Dhvani Badheka

Dhvani is an irreverent writer who has over 4 years of experience under her belt. She is a life-long learner and a quick study which provides her articles a unique insight. She is always reading, researching new materials and trying to expand her knowledge of the AEC industry so that she can create interesting and valuable content.