A New Beginning for BIM Objects: Standard BS EN ISO 22014:2024
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is constantly evolving, and the new standard BS EN ISO 22014:2024, published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), introduces key changes to the management of BIM objects. This standard specifies requirements for the creation, management and use of BIM objects, or digital representations of building components. This aims to increase the efficiency and quality of this form of product specification. Discover the new BIM Objects Standard 2024: Enhancing data quality, interoperability, and digital twin integration in construction.
Key Objectives of the BS EN ISO 22014:2024 BIM Standard
Standardization of BIM objects
BS EN ISO 22014:2024 introduces a uniform structure and content of BIM objects. This ensures that all elements are created according to the same principles, ensuring consistency and compatibility between different software and projects. Standardisation reduces the risk of discrepancies, which translates into fewer errors and greater efficiency.
Increased interoperability
The standard provides a common framework for different BIM tools and systems, making it easier for them to work together. Increased consistency allows for better integration of different industry models (architecture, construction, and MEP). This improvement will facilitate comprehensive modeling and interdisciplinary coordination.
Improving data quality
One of the main objectives of BS EN ISO 22014:2024 is to provide high quality data for use by designers. The standard also provides guidance on the accuracy and completeness of information.
Support for digital twin integration
The standard is intended to ensure that BIM objects are compatible with platforms supporting digital twins. Digital twins are digital replicas of physical objects that enable real-time monitoring and management of assets. Integration with digital twins allows for ongoing tracking of the technical and operational condition of buildings, which significantly improves the efficiency of management and maintenance.
Main parts of the standard
Data structure and templates
BS EN ISO 22014:2024 defines detailed guidelines for formatting geometric data, metadata, and object relationships. This allows different systems to exchange information seamlessly, increasing interoperability and enabling more efficient project management. These guidelines cover not only the structure of data, but also, for example, how it is presented, making it easier to understand and use.
Level of information need
The standard introduces the concept of Level of Information Needs (LOIN), which defines what information is required at different stages of the project. This helps to precisely specify what data is needed, which prevents excessive information collection and increases the efficiency of data management.
source: ISO 22014, “Figure 8 — Detail for library objects”
Classification systems
BS EN ISO 22014:2024 uses existing classification systems, such as Uniclass, to systematically categorise BIM objects. Classification systems help to organise information logically and make it easier to find. This speeds up the design and project management process because all data is readily available and organised into established categories.
Object libraries
In summary, the Standard promotes the creation and use of standardized libraries of BIM objects that can be reused across projects. These libraries contain predefined elements, which saves time and increases project consistency.
BS EN ISO 22014:2024 introduces a comprehensive approach to BIM object management that significantly improves data quality, interoperability and compatibility with digital twins. This standard is a step in the right direction for the AEC industry, where there are almost as many different approaches to creating BIM libraries as there are creators. The introduction of BS EN ISO 22014:2024 sets new standards for BIM practices, paving the way for more consistent practices for construction.
