BIM (Building Information Modelling) is a digital tool used in the construction industry by architects, engineers and construction professionals to create data filled 3D models. BIM allows a user to design, visualize and simulate a building across its entire life cycle.
At the same time, it enhances real time data sharing which in turn reduces errors and significantly improves efficiency for all project stakeholders.
These comprehensive BIM models allow for:
- Collaboration: stakeholders can all work on a single model
- Data integration: including materials, performance, schedules and costings
- Clash detection: identifies clashes between a building’s components
- 3D modeling: enhanced renders and model creation capabilities
BIM is still a relatively new concept, although it is now becoming popular for its innovative, collaborative and detailed data models. Many different software packages have become increasingly well known, these include:
- Autodesk Revit
- ArchiCAD
- Bentley AECOsim
- Navisworks (specialising in clash detection)
The following image showcase the capabilities of homes modelled in Autodesk Revit incorporating job plans, exploded perspectives and 3D model rendering.
Take note of the detailed services and incorporation of all trades.
The interplay of woodwork software with BIM
BIM has many levels of detail and data communication, although it does not always allow for the level of detail required for joiners to create comprehensive job plans and CNC integration for efficient manufacturing.
Therefore joiners will continue to utilize modelling software that is specifically designed for these job plans and machining files. So, how can this be integrated into a complete BIM configuration?
PolyBoard is a cabinet design to manufacturing solution that allows for 3D DXF export of projects to many BIM software packages. This creates an integration that works to the benefit of all project stakeholders.
For example, a joiner can design a kitchen with complete manufacturing detail efficiently in PolyBoard, and also visually place a scaled model of the project into BIM software within and around all environments and services of a wider construction project.
Importing into BIM allows joiners to communicate across large scale projects and understand job constraints in full. Different services, such as electrical and plumbing, can be better understood in the planning phases of a project, clash detection can be identified before manufacturing begins, and installation issues resolved.
At the same time, continuing to use PolyBoard with BIM solutions allows for a specialised focus on joinery detail and output to be maintained. We have customers who already utilize BIM technology with PolyBoard’s 3D DXF output.
See the following images firstly of a PolyBoard kitchen model…
…then the same kitchen showcased in a single story dwelling in AutoDesk Revit (click to enlarge).
This workflow avoids double handling of joinery data in AutoDesk Revit. The 3D DXF allows seamless implementation of the kitchen from PolyBoard into the BIM software.
Additionally, our StairDesigner software has the same 3D DXF output capabilities and we have seen our customers effectively communicate their stair projects into BIM software for the benefit of all project stakeholders.
Take a closer look at PolyBoard and StairDesigner
If you would like to improve your project modeling with instant access to all manufacturing details, try PolyBoard and StairDesigner today.
Click here to download and test PolyBoard
Click here to download StairDesigner
Please contact us if you would like to set up a demonstration with a member of our technical team.
