Interrelationship between BIM and Sustainable Building

In an effort to create a healthier and safer environment, architects, engineers, and designers are incorporating more and more sustainable elements into their buildings. Creating more environmentally conscious buildings is not a new practice but till now the aim was to create buildings that have a net-zero impact i.e. all the energy of the building is supplied onsite. However, that is no longer enough to tackle the rising level of temperature and carbon emissions, the need is to construct buildings that have a net positive impact, meaning that the project gives something back to the environment. To implement more abstract concepts of climate into a tangible building solution is no easy task, it is here that new avenues need to be explored. 

To create green buildings is all about utilizing techniques and materials which are unique and ultimately have an environmentally positive impact. It is perhaps the Building Information Model that can be useful in creating sustainable buildings. For Instance, Architectural BIM Services can be used to create buildings which capitalize on natural light, has open spaces and proper ventilation leading to less consumption of energy. With the use of Virtual 3D Model designers can analyze new materials, reduce risk, save time, and create better buildings.

Here we analyze ways in which BIM can be applied to add more sustainable elements in the buildings:

1. Conceptual Modeling for Energy Analysis:

According to Autodesk, 80% of the project’s environmental impact is determined by the decisions that are made in the design phase. This is why Revit’s conceptual energy analysis tool is very important. It coverts architectural conceptual design into the analytical energy model. It allows us to perform the whole building’s energy analysis. As the design progresses simultaneous changes are made in the energy model and conceptual massing forms. It performs carbon analysis, allows to integrate climate data, facilitates solar studies, and compares design options. Conceptual Modeling allows to reduce the energy use of the building and contributes towards a better and greener future. 

2. Topography Modeling for solar and shadow analysis:

Making the most use of solar energy and daylight is the perhaps a very effective way to make positive impact buildings. The more popular way till now has been the use of “green bling” or solar panels. BIM allows visualizing shadows for different times of the day and year. It also allows us to quantify solar and shadow effects. So with this, the BIM Modeler can see how the sunlight will move across the building, what would be the peak solar heat gain, etc. This function allows us to choose the prime spot for inserting solar panels as well as guides the interior designer plan the room in a way that the natural light becomes a priority.

3. Insulation and Ventilation:

Insulation and ventilation are key players in a building’s quest to be energy efficient. There are various ways in which MEP BIM Services can be utilized to integrate green elements into the building. For example, air leakages need to be reduced as cold air outside may be drawn inside resulting in cool draughts. Similarly, cool air from inside can escape outside leading to more AC consumption. Similarly, air filtration, accurate insulation, avoidance of thermal bridges, etc. all are important considerations. With the intelligent 3D model any inconsistencies can be noted at the planning stage which can result in more accurate installations.

4. Durability:

The longer a building or its material lasts, there is a lesser need for construction to be done again. It saves on the use of materials directly but as well as conserves the energy that would be consumed during the process. The 6D Dimension of BIM Services allows us to experiment with sustainable materials that would last longer. It also permits a shift from stones, bricks, and concrete which have a proven track record for being durable but not very ecological.

Conclusion:
Apart from the above-mentioned points, the overall BIM process is such that it only adds in the creation of the greener buildings. With the BIM, the architects, engineers can today construct buildings with concrete forests or with extensive rooftop gardens. BIM allows us to visualize the entire project right at the pre-planning stage and eliminates any risk. With the correct use of BIM, going green is not a gamble but a definitive step towards success.