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Glossary

Here you can find definitions to key words related to digital engineering and building information modelling (BIM).

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3D machine control

3D machine control 3D machine control is the use of the geospatial positioning of earthmoving plant related to a digital design. The system can be automatic where the driver only steers the machine and a blade or paver follows the design automatically or, manual, where the driver follows display screens on the machine.

4D BIM

4D BIM 3D model linked to construction programme/s.

5D BIM

3D model linked to cost information/ databases.

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Defined by Skanska as a collaborative approach that ensures the right people get the right project information at the right time.

Level 2 BIM

A level of BIM capability, as determined by the UK Government BIS BIM Strategy Report. A managed 3D environment held in separate discipline 'BIM' tools with data attached. This level of BIM may utilise 4D construction sequencing and/or 5D cost information. The Government's BIM Strategy Paper calls for the industry to achieve Level 2 BIM by 2016.

Cave

A virtual environment that allows users to walk into a visualisation at full scale, providing immersion in the environment. They are often enabled by data projectors or large digital screens.

Clash

An issue in design coordination where two or more components are supposed to occupy the same space, or the spatial relationship between components leads to issues in access or clearance.

Clash detection

The process of identifying clashes using BIM software.

Computer Aided Facilities Management (CAFM)

The process of using technology and information, usually originally captured through BIM processes, to aid in the delivery of maintenance and management of a completed project.

Common Data Environment (CDE)

Structured facility asset information for the commissioning, operation and maintenance of a project often in a neutral spreadsheet format that will be used to supply data to the employer or operator to populate decision-making tools, facilities management and asset management systems (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013 and BS1192-4).

Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie)

Structured facility asset information for the commissioning, operation and maintenance of a project often in a neutral spreadsheet format that will be used to supply data to the employer or operator to populate decision-making tools, facilities management and asset management systems (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013 and BS1192-4).

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Digital engineering

The application of digital technologies in order to optimise working methods and deliver operational excellence through the sharing and reuse of reliable data and information.

Field data

Information of individual assets and components that is collected on site.

Field management tools

Hardware designed to enable the efficient capture of data in the field.

Geographical Information System (GIS)

A system designed to capture, analyse and manage spatial or geographical data.

Industrialisation

A methodology to identify, document, standardise and, where possible, automate optimal construction processes in order to realise cost, time and sustainability benefits. Includes the process of offsite manufacturing, modularisation and pre-assembly.

Laser scanner

An instrument that uses a laser to measure the distance between itself and the surrounding objects at many thousands of points in all directions. The laser scanner captures a dense, accurate point cloud. Devices are available that allow fixed point, mobile and handheld scanning.

Model

A three-dimensional representation in electronic format of building elements representing solid objects with true-toscale spatial relationships and dimensions.

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Tag and track

A process for accurately monitoring different aspects of a construction project throughout its life in order to capture data from multiple supply chain partners in a standard format.

Last updated: 23/01/2017