The detailed, execution-ready 3D model forms the core of successful Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM offers outstanding potential for more efficient construction projects through better planning. The digital building model is the central source of all information and processes and enables well-founded decisions to be made on a solid data basis.
How reliable is your BIM model?
In every project, it is important to understand what information you need to provide to project partners, when and to what level of detail. It is equally important to know how reliable the information in a 3D model is and for which work processes it can be used.
Good BIM-based planning and a reliable 3D model can provide meaningful data for all project phases at the touch of a button, from costing and quantity takeoff to production. On the other hand, using a model that does not have the appropriate level of detail for the respective service phase can lead to delays and, in the worst case, serious errors on the construction site.
Level of Development (LOD)
Level of Development (LOD) describes the level of development of the components of a building model. LOD thus provides information on the level of detail of the parts of a 3D model in different phases of the work and how reliable the information on individual components in the 3D model is.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) defines five basic levels from LOD 100 to LOD 500, ranging from the purely conceptual or graphical representation of the model (LOD 100) to the "as-built" model (LOD 500). LOD therefore also enables an assessment of how reliable the information of a tree structure model is.
LOD creates trust
In a successful BIM project, the BIM execution plan defines what information project participants must provide, when and at what level of detail (LOD). Information on the LOD makes it clear to everyone involved how reliable the data provided is and for which work processes it can be used, from costing and quantity surveying to production. In this way, LOD makes the added value of a BIM model clear to all those involved and creates trust between project partners. The more reliable the information available in the model is, the more participants will use this data. This allows the full potential of BIM to unfold.
Models ready for implementation
With Tekla Structures, you can create detailed, ready-to-execute models for your projects. You can easily model with the software to a level of detail of LOD 400 and beyond. Quickly and easily create a 3D model with all connections including welds, their seam preparation and bolts, embedded parts, bar and mesh reinforcement and detailed subcontracting elements. This high-quality model supports the entire workflow, reduces ambiguity in planning and gives you the ability to provide high-quality data for your project partners.
Learn more about the Trimble software solution Tekla Structures.
