What is a BIM digital model?

La BIM digital model (Building Information Modeling) is a 3D digital representation of a building with which functional and physical information from the building is associated. These two concepts (geometric and informative) are inseparable when talking about BIM.

More precisely, the digital model will consist of identified and informed 3D objects, and whose interactions can be defined. Thus, a 3D object representing a wall will include information about it (e.g. nature of the materials, date of construction, etc.).

The BIM digital model of a structure is associated with the reality of the building at a given moment. It should be kept up to date throughout the life cycle of the building to ensure its proper operation.

Digital model and building life cycle

BIM model and design phase

During the design phase, the digital model will be a real geometric and informative repository for architects, design offices and builders. They will be able to use it to carry out technical simulations (thermal, sound, quantity calculations, implementation simulations, etc.) and design the project.

BIM model and EXE phase

During the work phase of a project carried out in BIM, builders will be able to use the information in the design model for a multitude of uses. Among these, we can mention in particular:

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• The planning of works and interventions;
• Extraction of installation plans and quantities;
• The improvement of communication between the actors of the project;
• The improvement of off-site prefabrication.

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At the same time, analyses to detect clashes between the design model and 3D point clouds can be carried out at key stages of the construction site (e.g.: end of structural construction, before formwork, etc.). These analyses will make it possible to compare a reference frame of the planned project (design model) and an imprint of reality (point cloud, generated during a 3D survey).

BIM model in Management & Maintenance Operations

During this phase, the information from the digital model is used to better control building management costs.

Note that for GEM uses, the model may be associated with BMS or CMMS software, to allow building managers to exploit this repository in business software that is specific to them.

BIM model and deconstruction phase

Finally, the digital model has a high added value during the deconstruction phase. In particular, it will be used to quantify and identify volumes of materials. This will make it possible to properly prepare a demolition operation and to identify and then valorize the materials that can be injected into a circular economy process for example.

Define and frame your BIM project

To benefit from a BIM digital model that meets the use cases and set objectives of a project, it will be necessary to work on a structured and precise documentary base.