What are BIM Dimensions — 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and 7D BIM Explained | Definition & Benefits

Blogs for civil engineers
5 min readMay 6, 2023

--

Hello friends, In today’s I will share the information about the Dimensions of BIM & also various detail about the dimensions.

So, without skipping any part read the post completely. After reading the today’s post, you will got understand about the concept of Dimensions in BIM.

So, without wasting more time, let’s start with the today’s informative topic…

What are BIM dimensions ?

Many guys having doubts regarding these, so In simple words, the Building Information Modelling (BIM) dimensions refer to levels of information as well as the data entered into a 3D model by using various BIM softwares.

Along with that it includes 3D model data, time data, costs, sustainability, etc. As per the research, the BIM is now a reality in the AEC industry.

The BIM is not only limited to the 3D modelling, but it also allows the users to manage a various numbers of information regarding materials, costs and time.

Here are the important dimensions of BIM.

  • 3D includes : geometrical modelling, graphical information
  • 4D includes the time-related information & details, construction sequencing by means of Gantt charts as well as by using the timelines
  • 5D Includes the cost analysis. Mainly includes :cost management, construction cost estimating, etc.
  • 6D means the sustainability. These include the environmental, economic as well as the social sustainability impact studies
  • 7D means the life cycle and maintenance. It also includes : planning and management of maintenance operations throughout the building’s lifecycle.
  • 8D — safety during design as well as the construction Works.
  • 9D — lean construction
  • 10D — construction industrialization.

In BIM, There are a great opportunity of developing a digital model of the project makes it possible to bring forward to the design phase.

The BIM model is enriched with new data as well as the information from different disciplines.

  • the verification of the model adherence to the project as well as per the requirements of the standards.
  • clash detection includes the preventive analysis of the possible geometric conflicts present in the model.
  • more accurate visualization of the entire project are possible in BIM;
  • better collaboration between multidisciplinary teams;
  • saving of time as well as the costs.

Below, here we will explore different BIM dimensions such as 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and 7D BIM dimensions.

2D dimension is the earliest form of construction models. Having only simple X-axis and Y-axis. These models are generally made by hand using manual processes or through the use of CAD drawings.

3D BIM is the most popular BIM dimension that all construction companies are familiar with. It is also referred to as a coordinated model. It represents the X, Y and the Z-axis of a building.

In these, the models are employed to schematic designs, design development and documentation, construction documentation, and record drawings.

What are the benefits of 3D BIM dimension?

  • Visualization: Throughout the entire project, 3D BIM would give you a full 3-dimensional visualization.
  • It helps to check for possible collision
  • It aids communication among the workers
  • Ensures transparency during the entire project.
  • Creates a detailed model of the impact the project would have on the environment.

4D BIM dimension

Below are the benefits of 4D BIM dimension?

  • It helps in planning the building site properly, including the schedule of all the construction stages.
  • Not only does it help in planning, but it also helps to increase the quality of the building site planning.
  • It brings about a good working relationship and cooperation among the stakeholders with clear deadlines.
  • It reduces disputes and unnecessary delays.

5D BIM dimension :

A 4D BIM model includes an additional dimensional information known as a scheduling data or time element.

Basically the model starts with a 3D BIM, as well as after that with an application of the 4th dimension

The 4D BIM model provides an additional dimension of information to a building project.

The function of 5D BIM modeling is to integrate cost, schedule as well as the design in a 3D output.

BIM helps to visualize the feasibility and unmatched accuracy in any building project.

It is capable of filling the early design void, allowing all of the parties involved to sit down and calculate both the project design costs at the current moment. It helps in every element of your project to be conceptualized as well as being evaluated beforehand, allowing you to make informed decisions with impressive accuracy.

Benefits of 5D :

  • Cost Visualization
  • Brings about shorter project cycles.
  • Modification of project cost at any given time
  • easily project scope understood.

6D BIM dimension (Project life cycle information)

The addition of other relevant information that supports the facility’ management as well as other operation in the hopes that it will bring about a better business outcome.

The 6D process means that a model that was created by a designer gets updated in the course of the construction.

This particular model can be submitted to the owner as an “as-built” model. In these part, the model having some necessary information that will be needed in case of any future maintenance.

Here are the information includes such as warranty, manual information, operation, as well as the information of maintenance, etc.

Benefits of 6D BIM dimension

  • It makes decision making very easy and fast.
  • During the project lifecycle, 6D BIM brings detailed analysis of the economic as well as the operational aspects of the project.
  • It is very helpful to plan for any maintenance phase.

Benefits of 7D BIM dimension

  • These helps to monitor the management of the facility or asset right from the design stage to the demolition stage.
  • changing of building parts and general repair of a building/project throughout its entire cycle.

Conclusion

To fully understand a construction project, we must perfectly understand all the BIM dimensions such as 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, etc.

With the help of these dimensions, users can easily the enhance the data of a construction model.

Therefore, dimensions help us to know the delivery time of the project, the cost of the project as well as how to properly maintain the project.

For easy understanding the concept of : What is Dimensions in BIM, take reference of below video for easy understanding :

Video 1 :- What is Dimensions in BIM ?

Video 2 :- Dimensions in BIM.

Thankyou friends for reading my today’s post. I hope you definitely like these post & understand these concept and learn new concept from these post.

For such new posts related updates, subscribe to our page.

Thankyou.

You can also read our other posts :

  1. What is BIM ?
  2. What is LOD in BIM ?
  3. What is Shop drawing in BIM ?
  4. Civil engineering material testing ….

--

--