What are BIM dimensions? (4D, 5D, 6D,7D)

Building Information Modeling (BIM) helps create and manage information models in a custom data environment that contains both graphical and non-graphical information (Ingibjörg Birna Kjartansdóttir). The information associated with the 3D Model increases as the project progress increases.

The simplest way to explain BIM dimensions is that they are further details or pieces of information added to a model to help the project team better understand the model (Hamil, 2021). They are the specific ways in which different data types are integrated into an information model. You get a better picture of the project by adding more dimensions of details, such as how it will be organized, its cost, and how it should be maintained.

It should be noted that BIM Dimensions are different from the BIM Level of Development. The level of development standards shows the extent to which a 3D model’s geometry, specs, and associated information can be relied on by the team members. On the other hand, BIM Dimensions are details or further information stored within a model, like its cost, time, and other factors.

This article will shed light on what it means to add different dimensions of data to a BIM model, how it works in practice, and what benefits can be anticipated.

BIM Dimensions infographic by excelize.com

4D BIM

4-D BIM is the addition of the time and schedule information with its 3-D Model (Ocean, n.d.). In a 4D BIM Model, we add a new dimension of information to a project information model in the form of scheduling data. This information allows the project team to make detailed and accurate project schedules while keeping the interdependencies of different tasks in view (Cards, n.d.). This data will be used to gain reliable project details as well as visual representations of how the project will progress over time. This also solves the problem of the communication gap between the site team and the planning team.

5D BIM

5D BIM is the integration of a 3D Model with its cost. The core concept of 5D BIM is to extract detailed and accurate cost information of building components. 5D BIM also helps project managers realize how any changes made to materials, designs, or areas could not only change the appearance of the building but also affect the budget and time.

This includes different types of costs like purchasing costs, installation costs, running costs, and maintenance costs. These cost calculations can be made from different data sources. Integrating these costs with a 3D Model helps construction companies predict the quantities of different components in a project, associating them with their respective costs and thereby calculating the entire structure's cost (Cards, n.d.).

6D BIM

6D BIM adds lifecycle information of a project to its BIM model, e.g., manufacturing, installation, operation, maintenance, and repair information. All this information is built into the BIM model and handed to the owner for optimal performance and maintenance. Apart from being used at the end of the project, 6D BIM also facilitates users in the design phase. It aids in decision-making processes to move the focus from capital expenditures to operational expenditures of the built assets (Riley, 2013).

6D BIM is also called Integrated BIM and focuses on sustainability. It acts as an as-built model for the client containing a sort of Manual for the Operations and Maintenance of the building.

---

You may also like:

ISO 1040 Life Cycle Assessment framework - Explained

---

7D BIM

7D BIM is an efficient integration of a 3D project management model, a 1D schedule management model, and a 3D BIM. This is a BIM technology all set to manage project sustainability in construction projects. Complex construction projects can be easily managed, cutting down all hurdles (Andreani Marta, 2019).

7D BIM is a fresh technology that smartly integrates 3D project management models to make a 7th dimension proficient enough to detect sustainability of the architectural designs of projects. This integration is several levels smarter than a stepwise dimensional increase.

It comes in handy with the detection of clashes in the design, modification of the structure, 3D project management, installation of various equipment, maintenance procedures, and other procedures that efficiently assist project managers and engineers for complex construction projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these dimensions aid or facilitate the project team in better visualizing their 3D model. With the addition of 4D BIM, the team can know the progress of the building at any point in time. With 5D BIM, the team can compare the planned and actual costs of the structure. With the help of 6D BIM, facility management can be made much easier and simple. Similarly, with 7D BIM, the project team can manage the project much more efficiently.

Works Cited

Ingibjörg Birna Kjartansdóttir, S. M. (n.d.). BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING. In S. M. Ingibjörg Birna Kjartansdóttir, CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS’ LIBRARY.

Ocean, J. (n.d.). BIM dimensions explanation and benefits. 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D and 6D BIM. Retrieved from revizto: https://revizto.com/en/2d-3d-4d-5d-6d-bim-dimensions/

Hamil, D. S. (2021, 9 9). BIM dimensions – 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D BIM explained . Retrieved from NBS: https://www.thenbs.com/knowledge/bim-dimensions-3d-4d-5d-6d-bim-explained

Cards, T. (n.d.). 4D, 5D and 6D BIM . Retrieved from Technology Cards: https://www.technologycards.net/english/the-technologies/4d-5d-and-6d-bim

Riley, A. C. (2013). What is going on with BIM? On the way to 6D. The International Construction Law Review. Australia.

Andreani Marta, B. S. (2019). 7d BIM for sustainability assessment in design processes: a case study of design of alternatives in severe climate and heavy use conditions. Architecture and Engineering, 3-12.