2D BIM

Introduction: Differentiating 2D BIM

Right off the bat there is a need to clarify that this is not an article on BIM Levels, it is also not an article on BIM dimensions. Rather, it is an article that focuses on exploring the idea of integrating intelligent information in the 2D drafting method so that it becomes compatible with all BIM Levels and Dimensions. If find it necessary to spell this out as there is an inherent confusion around the meaning of dimension and levels and their relationship to drawing techniques. I realize that to label this idea as 2D BIM does not help the case but I find that it is an apt description of exactly what the idea entails so we will stick with it for the time being.

Before we dive deep into the tenets of the idea, it is worth spending a bit of time on BIM Levels and BIM dimensions so that we gain clarity on what it is exactly that we are trying to achieve.

Bim Dimensions

Whilst originating from the need to differentiate between modelling geometry in 2D or 3D, BIM dimensions have evolved into a description of parameters which are used to categorize building information.

• BIM 3D refers to information that describes the geometry of objects the three axes (x, y, z)
• BIM 4D adds information that relates to time on top of BIM 3D (i.e. timelines schedules and durations)
• BIM 5D adds information that relates to finance on top of BIM 4D (i.e. cost estimates, budgets etc.)
• BIM 6D adds information that relates to sustainability on top of BIM 5D (i.e. embodied energy values of material, energy consumption of building etc.)
• BIM 7D adds information that relates to Facilities Management
• BIM 8D adds information that relates to Health and Safety

Whilst there is a general industry consensus on BIM 3D to BIM 5D, the other BIM dimensions are still a topic of debate and should be taken in with a grain of salt. In addition, because of the background of BIM dimension in differentiating 2D geometry from 3D geometry, many consider BIM 2D as a valid BIM dimension which refers to information that describes geometry in 2 axes (x,y).

A BIM model can be utilized for pre-defined specific purposes, commonly known as use-cases. According to project stage requirements and project complexity, specific parameters are added to the existing information contained in BIM. These additions of pre-defined used cases can be described as BIM dimensions.

United-BIM

An important aspect of this approach will be the level of detail to which the information is modelled

Foundational Assumptions

The basis of this idea resides in the understanding the Building Information Modelling fundamentally relates to the management of information that is structured in a specific way rather than the manner in which it is authored.

The Benefits of 2D authoring

Drawbacks of Traditional 2D authoring

The SVG File Format

Conceptual Framework of 2D BIM

References

https://www.thenbs.com/knowledge/bim-levels-explained
https://constructible.trimble.com/construction-industry/what-is-bim-building-information-modeling
https://www.indovance.com/knowledge-center/bim-levels-and-dimensions-explained/
What are BIM Dimensions – 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and 7D BIM Explained | Definition & Benefits