Sunday, May 19, 2024 
Sunday, May 19, 2024
May 8, 2024
4D BIM is a construction-industry process that is being utilized with greater frequency on projects of all sizes. In this process, 3D models are combined with time- and schedule-related information such as projects, site surveys, and logistics models. The integration of time improves the model’s functionality for project teams and presents a deeper understanding of the project plan, providing a clearer picture of the project deliverables, timescales, and methodology, which leads to a safer design and construction process.
4D BIM is capable of delivering other benefits, including:
Yet despite these notable benefits, there’s a problem with 4D BIM: the manner in which 4D is currently being used remains fundamentally flawed. The issue is a strong reliance on outdated 2D processes and a lack of understanding of 3D models as effective planning tools. The result is that 4D BIM is not viewed as a value-added construction asset.
To understand why passive 4D BIM needs to evolve, it’s necessary to analyze the construction industry’s current approach to project forecasting and its use of 4D BIM. Currently, construction teams are still opting for inaccurate planning methods. 2D Gantt chart-style formats initially form the basis of 3D models; 4D BIM is then possible by integrating project scheduling information, turning 3D models into detailed planning tools.
However, once projects begin to progress, 4D BIM is quickly abandoned in favor of the tried-and-tested (but ultimately flawed) 2D format. Should a client request an updated 4D model further down the line, planning teams must then scramble to obtain a revised version.
It’s not difficult to see why this has been a costly and timely exercise – as well as an illogical one. It also means that 4D BIM is reduced to a mere visualization tool. Not only does this create unnecessary expense for stakeholders, but for planning teams, it overlooks the ability of 4D to understand construction timelines and calculate risk. It’s simply 4D just for the sake of it.
This is where Asta Powerproject 4D from Elecosoft comes into play. By reclassifying 4D into two chains of thought – passive and active – the sector is turning 4D BIM on its head. Passive is the use of a 3D model simply to visualize plans once data has been manually entered; conversely, active adopts a far more dynamic stance.
Asta Powerproject 4D enables users to combine 3D models with the power of Asta Powerproject scheduling in one solution. This means users can instantly see the impact of changes in the 3D view as they update the Gantt chart, delivering effective 4D planning.
This works by using the 3D model during the entire planning process to ensure the project is correct, first time around. It also allows for a deeper level of information to be attached to design plans, using data linked to digital objects for better oversight and future observation. And it means greater precision around risk and cost calculations, as well as a more informed client, who has a better understanding of the necessary timeframes for completion.
Asta Powerproject 4D can even help to identify problems that are hard to see via traditional schedules like health and safety and run scenarios to assess process improvements before getting on site.
“Increasingly, teams will be looking to actively use 4D models to plan and forecast, updating as they evolve, rather than passively using the designs solely as a visualization tool,” noted David Hernandez, Head of US for Elecosoft LLC. “It’s an approach that, at its core, is objectively different to common working practices around 4D BIM.
“Yet despite going against the grain, it’s proving to be a game-changer in terms of project deliverables, reducing risk and project overrun while increasing bottom lines. And Asta Powerproject 4D is at the forefront of leading that change.”
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