ATLANTA - A newly released guide from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) on building information models and building information modeling (BIM) - An Introduction to Building Information Modeling - is available as a free download on the association’s Website. It serves as a resource for professionals considering BIM tools and applications for their businesses.

Unlike two- and three-dimensional CAD, BIM utilizes intelligent objects to create models. According to Dave Conover, a member of the BIM Steering Committee who wrote the guide, the benefits of using BIM applications are numerous, including enhanced interoperability that will improve integrated building design and integrated project delivery.

“Most important, however, is BIM’s ability to create an accurate model that is useful throughout the entire life of the building, from initial design through occupancy and operation,” said Conover.

“In addition to the actual benefits of the BIM process, the guide itself offers advantages in that it gives those unfamiliar with BIM a fast and high level introduction. It provides some broad level insight into how BIM will affect the building industry in general.”

In addition to BIM’s advantages and tips for getting started with the application, the guide also includes a list of helpful software so that engineers might choose the best program for their company.

For more information, visit www.ashrae.org.

Publication date: 09/21/2009