Consulting-Specifying Engineer - March 2009 - (Page 31) BIMStorms are like industry sandboxes in which engineers interact on one or more projects. They give engineers an opportunity to see how colleagues use BIM, and a place to practice and hone new skills. BIMStorm tools When considering whether to participate in a BIMStorm, it may seem extremely complex. How is anyone expected to know how to use all of these tools? The answer is: You do not need to know them all. Each participant can use tools of his or her choice and interact with others. The collaboration and communication that happens through the tools are what drive BIMStorm. Novices in technology may be seasoned experts in engineering or design, and they are encouraged to participate because their knowledge is valuable data that can be harnessed. The following are some of the tools used in a BIMStorm. Using all of the tools is not required. • A model server • Int ernet • Desktop BIM applications ArchiCAD Revit VectorWorks Other industry foundation class (IFC)capable BIM software • Geographic information systems (GIS) Google Earth and Map Virtual Earth ESRI A BIMStorm can incorporate multiple file types at multiple levels. Everything from 3-D models to industry foundation class files are included. Source: Onuma Inc. and BIMStorm LAX Teams • Spreadsheet A BIMStorm model server: • Is a web-enabled multi-user platform to access BIM • Provides instant BIM access with a simple user interface to data • Manages BIMs at a portfolio level • Permits Import and Export from Revit with Add On • Permits Import and Export from ArchiCAD with Add On This is a view of the Los Angeles BIMStorm at the end of 24 hours, showing the 420 buildings created by 130 teams. This is a view in Google Earth, with a network link to the OPS Model Server, where the buildings are stored. Some teams also took their projects to higher levels of detail such as the MEP model shown on upper right created by DDS BIM. Source: Google Earth, Onuma Planning System, and BIMStorm LAX Teams • Is not an FTP server, but allows users access to BIM data without needing to download the entire BIM. What is a BIMStorm? BIMStorms are scheduled events taking place in the United States and internationally. The 14 BIMStorms in 2008 were • Permits Import and Export to other IFC BIM applications • Exports geo-referenced BIM to GIS and Google Earth • Exports to other formats such as Excel and SketchUp • Stores hundreds of thousand of BIMs organized to demonstrate new design processes. Some of these were virtual and others happened at a conference, like BIMStorm AEC EcoBuild in Washington, D.C., in December. Every BIMStorm is unique and organic; some are 60 minutes in length and others last more than 24 hours. Consulting-Specifying Engineer • MARCH 2009 31
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