BIM, or Building Information Modelling, is a way to create and manage all the information about a building in one place. Think of it like a big digital folder that holds everything about a building project—from 3D models of walls, doors, and furniture to important notes, schedules, and budgets.
BIM Information Types: Graphical and Non-Graphical Data
Graphical Data
This is the visual part of BIM, often created with 3D modelling software like Revit. Imagine a virtual 3D model of the building where you can see each room, floor, window, and other physical features. Graphical data is what you actually “see” in a model.
Examples in Revit:
Walls and Rooms: In Revit, you can draw the walls of each room and place furniture, windows, and doors in 3D, just like a digital blueprint.
Floor Plans and Sections: You can create 2D views from the 3D model to see things like floor plans and cross-sections for more detailed work.
Non-Graphical Data
Non-graphical data is the information that describes details of the building that you might not see directly but are critical to its design, construction, and use. This can include details about the materials used, costs, and maintenance requirements.
Examples in Revit:
Material Information: For a door in Revit, non-graphical data could include the door's material, its fire rating, and insulation properties.
Scheduling: Revit can track installation dates, costs, and who’s responsible for each part of the project. This helps with planning and budgeting.
How It All Works Together
In Revit, combining graphical data (e.g., placing walls and rooms in 3D) with non-graphical data (e.g., tracking materials, costs, and supplier info) provides a complete picture. This helps all stakeholders understand and manage the building project with detailed, real-time information, making everything from design adjustments to cost estimation much more efficient.
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