Code Checking in BIM: What It Is and Its Purpose

In a BIM process, to carry out checks on the quality of models and ensure better integration between models created by different specialists (structural engineer, systems engineer, architectural designer, etc.), the verification and management activities of interferences and geometric and informational inconsistencies are essential.

These verification activities are defined as:

• Clash Detection, where geometric interferences between objects, models, and documents from different disciplines (structures with systems, for example) are checked.
• Code Checking, where the parameters (geometric and alphanumeric) implemented in the BIM models are analyzed through appropriate sets of parametric rules (rule-set) referring, for example, to specific regulations.

In this article, we will delve into the Code Checking of BIM models to understand what it is and which tools for IFC Checker and BIM Validation can be helpful in the verification phase.

Code Checking: what it is

Code Checking consists of verifying informational inconsistencies and the rules that the digital model must comply with, identifying non-compliances with respect to:

• requirements from the Informative Specifications (CI) or Information Management Plans (pgI): in this case, some criteria for correct modeling may be violated, or properties specifically required in the tender documents may be absent;
• technical standards or specific regulations: in this case, technical regulatory or regulatory requirements may be violated (such as minimum heights to achieve the usability of premises, access widths, safety distances, etc.);
• custom criteria: in this case, requirements or prescriptions defined by the designer/client may be violated (for example, the presence of elements necessary for the correct use of the building, the presence of protective railings at windows, etc.).

As we know, the virtual model of a building is a model made up of parametric objects, that is, computer objects representative of real entities, whose characteristics are ‘translated’ into a certain number of parameters.

Quality control of the project | Interface usBIM.checker

In the same way, ‘translating’ into parameters regulatory indications, or the requirements of the client, or even indications that derive from good design practices would be useful for a comparison of these with the counterparts present in the virtual model of the construction.

The creation of databases of rules to check (declination into parameters of required requirements) is the first step towards the implementation of Code Checking.

Some well-known applications of this procedure concern geometric prescriptions (control of minimum surfaces, volumes, respect for distances, control of daylight ratios) or functional (control of escape routes, accessibility for people with motor disabilities), but it is evident that the areas of investigation are multiple.

Beyond the specific operational use, it is the opportunity for methodological development that proves to be very interesting.

In a traditional design process, any control can only be performed on a sample basis: the possibility of automatic implementation of requirement checks allows for a much broader verification, paving the way for an important change in mindset.

Similarly, the creation of tested and reliable rule databases related to regulatory prescriptions allows for the addition of the characteristic of repeatability and objectivity to the checks to be carried out, for example, during the bidding phase for the awarding of a public work.

In conclusion, the ability to perform checks and controls automatically or semi-automatically on the virtual model of the construction offers further opportunities for efficiency and quality, showing how the BIM methodology and technology increasingly open up to a new way of conceiving the construction sector.

Software for Code Checking

Performing Code Checking on a model produced by a generic BIM authoring software is only possible if the BIM model is supplemented with the information that allows for verification of compliance with specific prescriptions or rules.

Another essential variable is that the implementation of information and checks must be carried out on the BIM model in open IFC format, to ensure real intelligibility of the process.

To perform an informational verification of an IFC model and check the correspondence between the model and project or technical/legal regulatory prescriptions, it is necessary to use a tool for IFC Checker and BIM Validation.

Here are the main steps to perform the checks.

1. Loading the BIM model
   First of all, it is necessary to import the digital model of the building in IFC format (Industry Foundation Classes), which is the open standard for interoperability in BIM.
   The model can be generated by any BIM modeling software that supports the IFC format, such as Edificius, Revit, ArchiCAD, Allplan, etc.
2. Configuration of verification rules
   As a second step, it is necessary to set a set of rules or verification criteria based on which the model will be checked. These rules can be:
   • building regulations: specific construction requirements, such as minimum door sizes, stair widths, fire safety regulations, etc.;
   • company or project standards: customized requirements imposed by the organization or client, such as compliance with certain quality standards;
   • geometry and information checks: checking the integrity of the BIM model, identifying interferences or clash detection (collisions between elements), verifying missing or incorrect data.
3. Execution of the check
   Once the rules are configured, the automatic verification process is started. The application checks the model against the specified criteria.
   The results of the check are then displayed in detail, showing any non-compliance found. Each identified issue is associated with a specific element of the model, making it easy to understand where to intervene.
4. Review and correction
   Working on 3D models makes it simple and intuitive to visualize the parts of the model that do not meet the set requirements. Users can navigate the model and analyze in detail the issues identified. Once the problems are identified, it is possible to modify the model to correct the non-compliances, consequently updating the IFC file.
5. Iterative verification
   After making the changes, it is possible to re-run the check to ensure that all non-compliances have been resolved. This cycle of verification and correction continues until the model complies with all established rules.
6. Results report
   In addition to graphical verification, detailed reports of the control process are generated, documenting the checks performed, the non-compliances detected, and the corrective actions taken.
   These reports can be used as official documentation to demonstrate the project’s compliance with the required regulations and standards.

Why use a Code Checking tool

The use of a Code Checking tool in the context of Building Information Modeling (BIM) offers a series of advantages that improve the efficiency, quality, and compliance of construction projects. This type of extensive verification, on the entire BIM model, would be impractical without the use of a specific Code Checking tool.

Here are some of the advantages.

1. Automated verification of regulations
   A Code Checking tool allows for automated checks of the BIM model against local, national, or international building regulations. This helps ensure that the project complies with all applicable laws and regulations, reducing the risk of penalties or delays related to non-compliance.
2. Reduction of errors and correction costs
   Errors in the project can be very costly if detected in advanced stages of construction. By using a Code Checking tool, potential issues can be identified and corrected from the early stages of design, drastically reducing costs associated with late changes and construction errors.
3. Improvement of project quality
   Code Checking helps improve the overall quality of the project. It ensures that the model is consistent, complete, and error-free, verifying the correctness of information and the absence of geometric or informational inconsistencies.
4. Efficiency and time savings
   Automating checks saves a lot of time compared to manual checks. Manual checks can be labor-intensive and prone to human error, while a Code Checking tool can analyze a large volume of data in a few minutes, providing detailed and accurate results.
5. Support for collaboration and communication
   The reports generated by Code Checking tools provide clear and detailed documentation of the issues detected, facilitating communication among the various project stakeholders (architects, engineers, builders). This improves collaboration and helps quickly resolve issues.
6. Continuous verification throughout the project lifecycle
   Code Checking can be integrated into the BIM workflow to continuously verify the model throughout all project phases, from initial design to construction and even building management. This ensures that the model remains compliant and up-to-date over time.
7. Integration with company and customized standards
   Code Checking tools can be configured to include not only official regulations but also company standards or specific project requirements, ensuring that the model meets all requested specifications.
8. Facilitation of certification and compliance
   If a project requires specific certifications (such as sustainability certification), using a Code Checking tool can help verify the requirements and prepare the necessary documentation to obtain certification.

To learn more, read also: Federated BIM Models, what are they?