INTEGRATING BIM WITH ROOM DATA.
Room data applications use the information on spaces in BIM models to set up projects with the right number of levels and rooms, and to get the various dimension values as well as any other attributes defining departments and occupancy etc. Once the four sets of room data (furniture, finishes, fittings, mechanical components & spec’s) is added to the rooms, the model can be updated.
BIM ENRICHMENT - SPACES OR FLOORS?
The BIM enrichment process involves converting information from the room data application into parameters in Revit or as attributes in IFC models. The question is where should the room data be in the model? The obvious choice is with the room spaces which are automatically created by the BIM systems. But if the intent is to review and use the data in context with its surroundings, then floor objects which are more easily selectable and aren’t obscured by the surrounding objects are preferable.
FLOOR COVERINGS.
Floor coverings can be modelled as solid 3D objects situated just above the floor slab and are an excellent place-holder for room data. But most architectural modellers don’t create such objects as a matter of course, and when they do the coverings won’t always have the same information that’s on the spaces which is needed to make the link with room data applications.
eRDS PLUGIN.
The new eRDS Revit and IFC plugins are designed to solve the issue. They will automatically create the required 3D floor object coverings when room data is imported into a BIM models. When used, all the room definitions, furniture, finishes, fittings and mechanical aspects are written to the object as Revit parameters or IFC attributes.
COLOUR CODED ANALYSIS.
When room data is imported into a BIM, all kinds of colour coding becomes possible using the floor objects. This can be used to show the locations of various fittings, or to show the progress of various trades and subcontractors.
