The 13 key Scan to BIM terms you must master to become a Professional BIM Designer

It is becoming more and more common for the architecture, engineering, and construction industries to digitize. Construction industry workflow systems and techniques are gradually being replaced by digital technologies. One such method is scanning to BIM, which is currently gaining popularity.

Using laser scanning and Building Information Modeling, otherwise known as BIM, scan to BIM creates an accurate digital representation of the built asset. Digital techniques such as scan to BIM or field to BIM are interconnected and assist the technology to achieve its goals.

Key Terms for Scan to BIM

Scan to BIM: BIM is a process that involves creating, building, and maintaining 3D BIM models from laser scanned point clouds of built assets or constructed facilities. Alternatively, it can be called Field to BIM.

Accordingly, high definition LiDAR scanners are used for the scanning process. A 3D building information model of the structure is created based on laser scanned point clouds.

BIM Information Modeling: A Building Information Model or BIM is an approach to building design, planning and construction that utilizes people, technology, and processes.

A single detailed model of the structure is generated by integrating multidisciplinary models. From the design stage to the handover stage, BIM helps engineers, contractors, and architects manage construction projects effectively.

The scan to BIM process involves BIM. Field to BIM captures the as-is data as a point cloud by scanning the physical asset. In order to develop a real time data integrated virtual model of the facility, the point cloud data is used.

3D Laser Scanning: Laser scanners are used to create a digital representation of an object using 3D laser scanning. The laser rays from the 3D scanner incident on the surface of the object produce a point cloud, which contains precise information, such as dimensions and appearance, about the object.

Data from the point cloud is digitally processed in software programs to produce a three-dimensional representation that is accurate and rich in information. Modern-day topographical surveys also use laser scanning.

COBIE: Information about managed assets such as space and equipment is exchanged using COBIE, an international standards-based protocol. A BIM-based approach to the design, development, and management of built assets is strongly associated with this concept.

COBIE is essentially a file containing the same information as a BIM model. Data is represented digitally in a BIM model, whereas data is represented in a COBIE sheet.

Revit Families: BIM modelers use Revit families to create a BIM model of a structure or asset by combining a cluster of 2D and 3D elements. A Revit family can be classified as a system family, a loadable family, or an in-place family.

The Revit family includes items such as doors, windows, and furniture. As per the client's requirements, Revit families can also be customized.

Clash Detection: Detecting clashes between various disciplines such as architecture, structure, and MEP involves identifying intra and interdisciplinary hard, soft, and workflow collisions.

Navisworks and Revit are used to resolve the identified clashes digitally. To keep construction hassle-free, detecting and resolving clashes during the pre-construction stage is crucial.

Digital Twin: Simulations of construction processes and activities reflect the real-world conditions of the building. An electronic twin is created through digital twining. As soon as the civil engineering project has been completed, the general contractor creates a digital twin. In the maintenance and renovation phase, it facilitates the visualization of project conditions.

BIM Execution Plan: In the various stages of construction management throughout the lifecycle of a project, a BIM Execution Plan assists the project team in recognizing and implementing BIM's role. From the design and planning stages to the handover, it assists construction project managers and engineers.

BIM Implementation Plan: BIM Implementation Plans, or BIPs, are documents that help construction professionals identify all the benefits of implementing BIM throughout the project's lifecycle and in various phases. As part of a BIM implementation plan, project managers keep track of construction activities. As a result, the project can be managed effectively, saving time and money.

As-built BIM models and CAD drawings of structures are developed using the Scan to BIM workflow. Laser scanning provides accurate point cloud data for generating 3D Revit BIM models based on the scanned assets.

Common Data Environment: Using the Common Data Environment for BIM, the entire team has access to the same information. Construction documentation, a graphical model, and other non graphic project data are collected, organized, and distributed using it.

It is easier to communicate among team members when there is a centralized repository of information. It also eliminates the duplication of efforts and data entry errors that can occur due to duplication of effort.

To get online demonstration, watch the following video tutorial.

Video Source: The B1M

Computer Aided Design: The process of creating digital designs of real-world objects is known as Computer-Aided Design, or CAD. Building drawings and plans for a structure are created using CAD design and drafting services in civil engineering. In the Scan to BIM process the facility's as-built documentation is delivered.

BIM models or CAD drawings can be used as as-built documents. CAD drafts are also part of Scan to BIM, interacting in an indirect way with the technology, such that they assist construction and maintenance.

Virtual Design & Construction: Simulating each phase of a construction project before work begins on site is called virtual design and construction. A multidisciplinary collaborative BIM model can be created and managed using virtual design & construction for efficient construction planning and management.

There is a lot to discuss when it comes to BIM and virtual design & construction. Using a virtual platform, construction professionals can collaborate across disciplines. With Scan to BIM, BIM models are simulated with real time data. Simulating the construction activities allows you to determine the estimated time and cost of the project.