New perspectives in architecture: BIM as a new work process
For some years now, BIM (Building Information Modeling ) has been gaining ground as a new way of working in the fields of architecture and construction. However, very few architects really know what BIM actually means BIM.
BIM is not software
BIM is not a spatial drawing software as many designers think. But it is much more than that. In fact, it is a collaborative work process based on the exchange and sharing of information throughout the life of the project (building or infrastructure), from the design phase to the demolition phase. As such, this process is based on the implementation of a 3D parametric digital model that provides a digital representation of all technical, spatial and quantitative data of the project.
Of course, this digital model constitutes a platform for collaboration and permanent exchange between all the participants in a project(architects, engineers, companies, etc.). In addition, it enables spatial, energy and structural analyses and simulations to be carried out. It helps in the control of a number of important aspects such as budget, standards, material quantities, etc. This allows the development of the spatial solution proposed by the architect, the detection of technical problems before the start of the construction and the control of the construction cost.
Furthermore, this intelligent process allows for the improvement of the quality of buildings and the subsequent optimisation of their management and maintenance. Therefore, BIM can be considered as one of the best working and management solutions for the construction industry thanks to the efficiency of its tools and the reliability of its results.
Perspectives based on CIM
The success of the BIM concept in the building industry has opened up new perspectives on urban dimensions. Perspectives based on the implementation of a new CIM (City Information Modeling) concept, which consists of the application of BIM at the city level.
In conclusion, this concept was at the heart of the Smart City World Expo Congress (SCEWC ) in Barcelona (2019). It has become indispensable in the making and development of Smart Cities.
Bilel SOUISSI - Doctor of Architecture - Head of the Architecture Department "Pi -ARCHI" at Polytech Intl
