CAD to BIM: Biggest Evolution in the AEC Industry

It is always a mesmerising experience to witness the beautiful architecture around us. However, did we ever imagine how these architectures are built, designed, and at a standstill for many years? No, right, but the truth lies in the significant amount of information, collaboration of different experts, revisions in designs, and accurate completion of the structure, which takes wholesome collaboration from the team. In the early days of architecture, when it was merely an industry, skilled workers and experts used to draw hand sketches, work with intricate details, and manually endeavour at each stage of the construction.

The detailed and complex work was criticised to work under some standardised workflow. However, today, when fast-paced technological advancements are taking a top place in the market, the AEC sector has witnessed marvellous upgrades. Before computers were introduced to the world, the construction process relied entirely and solely on hand-drawn sketches. However, gone are the days when architects and engineers used hand-drawn sketches and blueprints and worked on old traditional working methods.

With the introduction of computers, it simplified the design process for AEC professionals and the inception of advanced technology changed the face of the architecture and construction industry with CAD services (Computer Aided Design). Although with ease of design process, drawings and sketches still hold a vital place during the pre-construction stage. As CAD came along, a lot of research was invested in developing novel ways to use computer graphics, which resulted in the launch of the sketchpad during the 60s era.

[edit] CAD Services in the AEC Industry

With the inception of CAD in the construction industry, AEC professionals heavily relied on CAD drawing services, which served as a holistic tool to simplify the process. It allows AEC experts to design floors and other components with high precision. However, CAD software was able to deliver 2D CAD drawings on computer screens, ensuring accuracy, less time, and more efficient outcomes for the projects. By the 1970s, CAD was in high demand, being used commercially for different sectors such as automotive and aerospace, which resulted in the growing popularity of AutoCAD software. Switching from paper sketches to digital 2D models became the linchpin in the AEC industry that could easily spot design inaccuracies, detailed analysis, and accurate measurements for the project. Moreover, with this tech solution, it is simplified to make the blueprints and adjustments in the project as per requirement. With the help of visual 2D representation of the designs, architects and engineers were able to take their creativity to the next level with different perspectives through the screen. Apart from that, CAD drafting services also provide a variety of benefits to construction projects, allowing AEC professionals to expand their efficiency; following are;

• Time Efficient
• Increased in Productivity
• Better Visualisation of the Project
• Easy File Sharing
• Accuracy in Model
• Error Free Drafts
• Customisable Solution
• Reduction in Rework

Although it showcased multiple benefits, it also had some limitations as technology and modern construction accelerated. Despite turning hand-drawn sketches into 2D models, it was constrained by complex projects. Some of the limitations included with CAD services are;

• Lack of Depth
• Emergence of 3D CAD
• Limited Collaboration

As a matter of fact, the use of CAD was prominent despite limitations. It allowed experts to easily share the 2D model of the project, which resulted in enhanced communication and collaboration against sketching on paper. Simultaneously, the technology was getting more improvised and advanced rapidly with new concepts and software, which gave birth to BIM technology (Building Information Modelling).

[edit] BIM Technology in the AEC Industry

Technology rapidly soared for the AEC industry after the CAD was introduced. In the early 80s, CAD wasn't the only tool available that simplified the construction process. The inception of BIM technology brought a different perspective to the construction sector and professionals. BIM is entirely a different design methodology from CAD. BIM services provide 3D information-rich models that enhance the construction process in a much more efficient way. In addition, it emerged as a holistic and collaborative approach that involves data from all aspects, from the lifecycle of the building to project dimensions and cost equations. This motivated a lot of experts and professionals to use CAD as part of BIM technology, which encouraged them to work in effective collaboration. However, the use of BIM services was becoming prominent amongst AEC professionals as it offers a wide range of benefits, as follows:

• Avoid Material Wastage
• Enhanced Communication
• Clash Detection and Resolution
• Better Facility Management
• Improved Decision Making
• Sustainability Management

As a matter of fact, the BIM model provides a more realistic approach to the project that enables the sharing of all the information at the same time with AEC professionals. With the widespread use of CAD and BIM technology in the construction industry, many AEC professionals rely on them as BIM technology makes CAD drawing more centralised, enhanced, and efficient for project management. This gave birth to CAD and BIM services, which are prominent services in the AEC industry today.

[edit] Brief Intro to CAD to BIM Services for AEC Project

The architecture industry has been a bystander for many years as technology has paved its way into the industry with computer-aided design, which significantly transformed the working culture from paper to screen. Later on, the BIM 3D modelling revolution's inception in the AEC sector simplified the construction process and enabled AEC professionals to develop efficient and accurate project outcomes with CAD to BIM services, which has entirely reshaped the working method.

The conversion of CAD to BIM has resulted in several possibilities for simplifying the complex architectural process and enhancing design with reduced human errors. From 2D to 3D model representation, CAD to BIM conversion seamlessly transitions the traditional drafting process into a data-rich, intelligent BIM model, enhancing the project's accuracy and efficiency with a wider perspective to make creative changes.

Collaborating CAD with BIM has been beneficial to the industry for modern architecture. Apart from this, incorporating CAD into BIM services in construction projects can offer a range of benefits, as follows.

• Efficiency in Project Execution
• Minimise Human Error & Risk
• More Efficient Communication and Collaboration
• Reduced Overall Operational Cost
• Enhanced Digital Representation
• Better Project Planning
• Accurate Bill of Quantities
• Effective Cost Estimations

[edit] To Sum Up

CAD to BIM services offer a variety of advantages that can be effective for construction projects. As a matter of fact, it has reshaped the AEC industry by serving how architects, engineers, and designers build, design, and maintain the facility. Although it enhances the working method of the entire construction project by enabling better visualisation of the model with all the intricate details. With quality driven outcomes helps AEC firms to stay competitive in the market and provide accurate infrastructure.

--Uniquescadd