FREMONT, CA:  The paradigm shift that comes along with building information modeling (BIM) is due to its transition from the 2D building designs to 3D modeling. Apart from the enhanced digital models, BIM provides a realistic approach with detailed information with regard to cost, size, material, color, and even time. Thus, the various components of the project can accurately envision the functional and physical characteristics of the building.

The real value of using a BIM model is gathering the amount of useful information that it generates. BIM allows an architect to push the limits concerning geometry, performance, and coordination. It enables the engineers, architects, and contractors to rescale as well as to monitor the effects of any adjustments, thereby providing enough flexibility for enhancing creative or sustainability aspects of the project. However, such changes are often accompanied by learning curves and some resistance.

A technology that brings various fields together also requires everyone to accept the change and adapt according to the evolving standards. With drastic transformation, it’s difficult for people not to feel threatened. But the requirement is still significant as BIM is just a tool that they can use to optimize their work. Instead, with the introduction of BIM, the focus can be shifted to more complex problems.

As BIM contains all the information, it can be used by people across the verticals to analyze different aspects.BIM has its application in other areas of construction too. It is also used in updating existing buildings. Further, BIM enables to develop flexible envelope systems that can be retrofitted to buildings, thereby, increasing their indoor environmental quality and sustainability.

An associate professor at the Israel Institute of Technology, Isaac Guedi Capeluto with his team developed a BIM tool that allows users to experiment with various designs without stressing on technological module’s constraints. Moreover, the envelope system is better than models based on similar concepts as it is adaptable to multiple climatic zones because of its intelligent controls and a variable choice of highly efficient energy technologies. Another advantage of the envelope system is the flexibility that it provides to a building. Integrated thermal and solar panels, along with insulated solar blinds in case of reactive windows control energy consumption and promote efficient energy management.