The Use of BIM for the Role of Forensics

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Building Information Modelling (BIM) helps to track as well as document the overall progression of the construction process which is very useful in case of any construction-related claims have been raised. For each time the BIM software has updated, the inspected data has been recorded for that updated version. With the help of BIM software, the photography, physical measurements of the buildings and the 3D laser scans have been documented which can be very useful for further forensic investigations as they cannot be challenged in the meantime of the court proceeding.

By using BIM software, the dimensions of the building structure can be verified, the documentation regarding construction schedule delay can be done as well as omissions and defects in the contraction procedure can be noted which is beneficial for forensic investigations.

Different types of applications of BIM in Forensic Investigations

The reconstruction of the accident and incident

The BIM software helps to allow forensic investigators to recreate incidents or accidents. This recreation of the scenario in the virtual environment helps to determine the causative factors of the accidents or the incidents. The weakness in the designing and construction procedure has been identified by the investigators by portraying the accident scenario with the help of BIM thus the progression of the entire forensic investigation procedure has been done.

The analysis of the materials and building’s structures

Investigators can also use BIM software to examine the structural and material defects in the construction site and can compare the actual conditions along with the original design intent. This helps to identify the areas of concern regarding the construction structure.

The analysis of fire and safety of the building structure

Detailed insights into the fire propagation, the impact of fire on the building structures and the routes for excavation have been provided by BIM software. Thus, the fire safety measures of those buildings can be assessed with the help of BIM software as well as it helps to determine liability.

Insurance and legal documentation process

The BIM-generated report influences the documentation for the legal and insurance purposes of the buildings. This helps to provide clear and compelling evidence about the building which can be used for negotiation purposes or any kind of insurance-related claims.

Increased collaboration

The international collaboration has been facilitated by BIM software in forensic investigations. A shared digital environment has been offered by BIM software in which investigators from different regions can work together thus they can exchange insights and use their expertise to solve the forensic complications.

Research and development

The ongoing research and development process has been driven by the applications of BIM software in forensic investigation fields. The new tools and techniques have been also explored by experts to increase the effectiveness of BIM-based forensic investigation procedures.

Providing training and education opportunities

The BIM-based forensic investigation process also helps to provide the opportunity for training and education process. Professionals can learn from real-world cases with the help of BIM models thus they can conduct vital investigation processes and understand the complexities of building defects and structural failures.

Advantages of using BIM technology in Forensic investigations

There are numerous advantages of using BIM software in forensic investigations which include:

Increasing data accessibility

A comprehensive and structured digital record of the construction project has been provided by BIM. This digital record includes the design plans of the construction project, the schedule of the construction project, and material specifications. Access to these digital records helps to streamline the investigation process thus allowing the investigators to conduct in-depth analysis.

Saving time and costs

Physical inspection procedures have been involved in the forensic investigation process, and BIM-based investigation helps to save the time and costs of the construction project as the BIM-based investigation involves the virtual investigation process. This virtual investigation process can be done remotely which helps to reduce the requirements for conducting on-site visits and thus helps to minimize the chances of disruptions.

Collaboration

BIM software also helps to facilitate the collaboration between the stakeholders who are involved in the forensic investigation. A more comprehensive analysis has been ensured by this collaborative approach of BIM software.

Improving visualization and accuracy

The investigators are allowed to recreate the incidents by using 3D models of the BIM software. Thus, the investigators are able to visualize the sequence of the entire events, point out the potential failure points as well as identify the structural behaviour of the building thus helping in the root cause analysis.

To get online demonstration, watch the following video tutorial.

Video Source: 3D Repo

Keep recording the progression of the project

BIM software helps to capture the physical characteristics as well as the dimensions of the space with the help of the laser scanner. This helps to provide a record of how the exact project progression has been done. This helps to reduce the frivolous claims and helps to conduct the forensic investigations smoothly.