4D BIM: What does it mean and what are the benefits?

In addition to 3D modeling, modern BIM technology offers enhanced BIM models, or BIM dimensions, which make it possible to calculate the 4^th dimension of time, the 5^th dimension of cost, and the 6^th  dimension of project life-cycle information, also known as facilities management. The amount of development in a BIM model rises to several levels, including LOD (Level of Detail) 100, 200, 300, and beyond, as a project advances through various phases.

BIM and 4D planning are increasingly used in the creation and administration of the built environment. Examines the advantages of 4D BIM and explain why success depends on it in this article.

With projects prone to cost overruns, schedule delays, and high safety risks, 4D BIM has grown in importance as a planning tool and a challenge to traditional building practices.

4D building approaches are used by engineers, construction managers, and contractors to improve workflows.

4D Building Information Modeling: What Is It?

A built asset's information is created and managed through building information modeling (BIM).

Construction experts, such as architects, engineers, manufacturers, and contractors, can collaborate to plan, design, and build a building utilizing 3D model as the central data source.

To generate a virtual construction sequence, 4D BIM integrates 3D models with time- and schedule-related data, such as programs and logistic models.

What are the benefits of 4D BIM?

• By visualizing the build process in 3D, you can have a better knowledge of the project plan and how it will come to pass.
•  Clear communication of the project's deliverables, schedule, and technique will result in safer design and construction procedures.
• Using a virtual model of the construction process, show how risks and problems can be found before they turn into costly errors.
• Keep track of project modifications and their effects on the schedule to reduce the need for expensive corrective work.
• Bring the project to life by simulating the construction in 3D, revolutionizing the exchange of build packages, and streamlining stakeholder consultation.
• Increased teamwork has an impact on the reduction of risk and error.
• Provide a platform for improved planning and management of construction activities, thus improving project coordination. For example, run different scenarios and test various construction methods, analysing the impact on cost and time.
• Optimise space usage by seeing where work is scheduled and how to use the environment better. In a post-Covid world, this can mean digital site briefings and demonstrations of working practices and procedures.
• Instead of treating it as a specialty, a "nice to have," or something that should be completed once and then forgotten, it is crucial to integrate 4D into the project planning culture in order to fully realize its benefits.
• The use of 4D-enabled tools must replace the use of legacy planning tools as the normative approach to planning.

What is the 4D BIM future?

Construction businesses now have the chance to show coworkers, clients, and contractors the ideal method to manage upcoming projects with a great deal more clarity and comprehension thanks to 4D BIM.

4D BIM technology will continue to advance as more businesses create their digital transformation strategies, eventually becoming crucial for managing and planning building projects.

Final Thoughts

The construction industry may gain significantly from the use of 4D BIM, including decreased safety risk, improved project planning, improved communication, increased collaboration, and improved project visualization. 73% of the industry is now utilizing BIM technology to manage construction work and deliver more projects on time and within budget after a slow start to digitalization.