BIM Assignment 2 - Week 4

I think the required reading for this week was very informative and brought up the details of the advantages and disadvantages of BIM software in a very clear manor. I agree with the paragraph emphasizing the importance of a friendly and intuitive user interface. With programs that are easier and more fun to use, I think this also increases the likelihood that the architects and engineers themselves will be constructing the models. With a user well versed in the details of the project rather than a CAD tech, less mistakes will appear throughout the modeling process. This is definitely an advantage that BIM software has over traditional AutoCAD or Microstation drafting programs. I thought the small section about curved surface modeling to be the most interesting. The idea that complex shapes could be modeled, and then directly exported to fabrication, would change the way architectural designs are created, and definitely open up the possibilities on this front. I believe this is already a technology being utilized in some places. I do however disagree that one platform will not be able to be used for all types of projects. It might take a while, but I think it's important for mechanical, electrical, structural, and other building components to be able to be designed and compared on the same level.

The second article I read was Organizing the Development of a Building Information Model by architect Jim Bedrick. This article discussed the varying levels of detail a BIM model must contain throughout 5 primary steps from conception through the actual as-built building. The author identified the main primary steps and the respective level of detail that must accompany the BIM process. He referred to levels 100 through 500 as conceptual, approximate geometry, precise geometry, fabrication, and as-built, respectively. He identified that this process would be difficult to time for every different project, because different designs progress at different rates. I thought it was interesting, and typical of an architect, to jump straight from precise geometry to fabrication and as-built without considering a step for other trades to consider their part of the building process. Perhaps the author was assuming that the step from approximate to precise geometry would include the other trades (structural, HVAC, electrical engineering, etc) to have their say and possibly alter the design. He left room in the program break down for each of the levels for cost estimating and sustainable materials, but did not seem to include a feasibility study for the original architectural design. Again, I think the integration of all the trades associated with creating an accurate BIM model will come eventually, but it will take a little cooperation and learning on the part of everyone involved.