1. The BIM Concept Drawings, building views, visualizations, calculations and quantity take-offs are automatically derived from the 3D model. BIM= Building Information Modeling Also known as „Virtual Building” or „Building Simulation”

2. Working Concept – BIM  Single file concept: The complete building model and all of its representations are included in the BIM file  Real architectural elements used for modeling  Changes of the model affect all related drawings (and vice versa)  Automatic generation and updating of documentation  Architectural content (libraries)  Building information data attached to the elements  Additional materials (rendering, animation, quantity take-offs, schedules)

3. Evaluation– BIM Benefits Compared to 2D and 3D CAD Elements have architectural meaning Changes on one drawing have influence on all others Rich visualization content (animation, sun studies, renderings etc.) Automatic quantity take-offs, schedules Connection to structural, energy calculation, collision detection etc. software Drawbacks Higher training requirements Might be difficult to learn the BIM approach for people who were previously 2D users Might be more difficult to handle complex geometry (e.g. freeform structures) then in 3D and 2D CAD