4D BIM

4D BIM describes a BIM dimension which refers to the level of information stored alongside or integrated within a modelling environment. 4D BIM describes a modelling environment beyond basic 3 dimensional geometric model on the X, Y and Z axis with further associated information. Over and above allowing 2D information or drawings to be produced with associated information, from cut-throughs of the 3D model, the 4D BIM has other information related to the construction project itself, in particular time.

4D BIM includes the element of time, with the ability to sequence the construction, which can help design and construction teams in planning and the client in visualising the stages of construction. 4D BIM can also help in better collaboration between the design and construction teams leading to increased maturity levels in terms of collaboration. It can also give the possibility to produce 2D diagrams to help communicate and manage the construction process, along with some costings in terms of Gantt charts or timelines as well as multiple models of component parts which go together to generate a whole model, whereby clash detection tools help highlight incongruencies.

Today where 3D BIM is an industry standard, 4D BIM is referred to as the next step in the context of models of increasing complexity as the second step after 2D BIM and 3D BIM and before 5D BIM, 6D BIM and 7D BIM. There are also potentially 8D, 9D, 10D and 11D, though these are not generally formalised or standardised and as such recognised as known dimensions.

For further information visit BIM dimensions, maturity and levels of development and level 3 BIM.

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