fbpx Skip to main content

BIM Expo 2013

A small but dedicated group of BIM enthusiasts converged on Coronado island near San Diego to share ideas and learn about new techniques and features in the rapidly expanding field of building information modeling or BIM. New products were featured at the BIM Expo 2013 to enhance the “immersion experience”, as well as experts covering the entire range and spectrum of the field.

Hotel Del Coronado

BIM Expo 2013

Among the topics were advanced modeling techniques using the Morph and Shell tools. These tools enable the creation of complex elements without complicated programming or scripting. It feels more like sculpting in clay rather than coding in geometric language.

Opening Reception

Energy analysis at the model level was another popular session. The power and convenience promised by this technology are fantastic. The time-consuming task of preparing energy conservation reports or ResCheck / ComCheck reports can now be performed more accurately and efficiently at a very early stage in the design. In fact, the ease with which this analysis may be performed allows its use during the design stage, rather than at the much later and inflexible point at the end of the architectural process. By moving the energy conservation consideration up in the design process, it may be integrated into the design instead of compromising on a design that does not perform as expected. The BIM Expo 2013 is focussed on sustainability.

Closing Reception

Advanced rendering techniques help us better understand the aesthetics of a project in its environment and the context of its surroundings. This has long been available to those who utilize three-dimensional design within their process. However, it often takes many hours to create and adequately light a scene to achieve the image quality expected by architects. This is exponentially more demanding when that scene is animated and viewed from every angle. Technology is catching up and providing astounding levels of realism with dynamic, global lighting and realistic textures that enable the visualization to serve an even greater purpose in the design process.

San Diego

BIM Expo 2013 Innovation

During the two days of this event, we learned about innovative teamwork strategies, techniques to build powerful workflow templates and social media integration. We gained a greater understanding of the importance, challenges, and risks of inter-discipline sharing of model data. Perhaps the most enriching experience was meeting fellow producers, sharing stories, and witnessing the innovative applications of this powerful technology.

BIM Expo 2013 was produced and hosted by Graphisoft, author of ArchiCAD. I am looking forward to next year’s event with great anticipation.

Are you ready to discuss your new home project? I can help you get started and to understand the steps in the process and how to get started. Contact me to discuss your project ideas. Call me for your free 15 minute Clarity Call (847-412-0692).