BIM and BIM Objects - Generating, Sharing and Collaborating.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital process that enables architects, designers, contractors, and facilities managers to collaborate within a shared 3D environment. It supports the creation, management, and exchange of structured data throughout the entire lifecycle of a building—from concept and design to construction, operation, and eventual recycling.

BIM improves coordination, reduces errors, and enhances decision-making. With up to 90% of a building’s total cost attributed to facilities management, BIM ensures that both manufacturer and design data are available to support long-term building performance and sustainability.

A BIM object is a digital representation of a physical building component—such as Boon Edam’s entrance solutions. These objects are more than visual models; they contain:

• Technical Data: Specifications, performance, and compliance details.
• Geometry: Accurate 3D representation of the product’s physical form.
• Visualisation Attributes: Recognisable appearance within the model.
• Behavioural Data: Functional characteristics such as movement zones or detection areas.

Types of BIM Objects

• Component Objects: Fixed-shape products like doors, windows, and entrance systems.
• Layered Objects: Flexible-shape products like flooring, roofing, and wall finishes.

Generic vs. Specific

• Generic Objects: Used in early design stages as placeholders.
• Specific Objects: Manufacturer-authored objects representing actual products.

Boon Edam UK provides BIM objects for its full product range—from revolving doors to high-security portals—designed to support accurate specification and seamless integration into building models.

Key Features:

• Configurable dimensions (width, height, depth)
• Colour and glass options
• Burglar resistance features
• Stereovision and access control compatibility

Our BIM objects are currently available in the following formats:

• .rfa (Revit Families) – for use in Autodesk Revit. These support Open BIM, allowing full parametric modelling and configuration.
• .ifc / .nwc files – available upon request. These support Closed BIM, used primarily for coordination and clash detection across platforms, but not for parametric modelling.

To make specification easier, all Boon Edam BIM objects and supporting product information can be found and downloaded via our NBS Manufacturer page.

BIM objects support multiple dimensions beyond 3D modelling:

• 4D: Adds time, aiding project scheduling.
• 5D: Adds cost data for budgeting and procurement.
• 6D: Adds sustainability metrics, including energy use and lifecycle analysis.
• 7D: Adds facilities management data for long-term building operation.

These added layers of information help reduce rework, improve planning, and support sustainable design. BIM enables teams to work in a unified environment, reducing duplication and improving efficiency across the entire building lifecycle.

When specifying entrance solutions, certain parameters are frequently missed but are essential for performance and integration:

• Air Curtains: Crucial for maintaining internal climate control and improving energy efficiency.
• Access Control Accessories: Including card readers, biometric scanners, and integration zones—vital for security and user flow.

Including these elements in BIM objects ensures accurate planning and avoids costly retrofits or design revisions later in the project.