What are the differences between BIM and CAD? Which is better, BIM or CAD? It depends!

There are many differences between BIM and CAD; if the CAD is a graphic design, BIM represents a more complete model that combines information and visual representation. Each of these files has advantages and disadvantages depending on how it is used.

 

Example: image of a sauna module represented in CAD (left) and BIM (right)

Image of a sauna module represented in CAD (left) and BIM (right)

 

 

Differences between BIM and CAD, advantages and disadvantages

 

For the choice of BIM vs CAD, below are some of the main differences in the use of the two techniques, which proves useful to understand which is the most suitable instrument according to your needs:

 

  • within a project, the CAD can only be "stretched" and is deformed, while a BIM is controllable and modifiable within the parameters established. For example, the BIM model of a chair can have adjustable lift, can have armrests or not, can vary in material;
  • the CAD has only one degree of detail, while the BIM has various degrees of detail within the same file. From simple bulk to defined object, the degree of detail can be selected by the designer at any time based on interest;
  • the CAD allows you to obtain more realistic and if necessary photorealistic representations. This advantage in using CAD is particularly evident in the case of objects with organic shapes or having many curves, more difficult to achieve with Revit since the BIM works mainly with polygons and straight lines.

 

Example: BIM model of an armchair with curved lines displayed with the Revit interface

BIM model of an armchair with curved lines displayed with the Revit interface

 

  • the BIM can contain a guide to the configuration and use of a company's products; this allows interaction with the company and ensures the necessary flexibility in the use of products. Another factor that favours the connection with the manufacturer is the technical and commercial information that can be inserted in the BIM models (e.g. the telephone number of the foreign office, the website, e-mail addresses of the commercial contact person, etc.)

 

The importance of BIM libraries

 

Since the dissemination of BIM is constantly growing around the world, we produce high-quality BIM models for architecture and design companies, in collaboration with Autodesk, thanks to our BIM modelling technicians, experts in the use of Revit.

We have also dedicated an entire area of the website to BIM parametric models, available for free download by architects, interior designers, engineers and surveyors. If you want to take a look, the link can be found below: download 3D models and BIM objects

In this way, designers can find BIM files more easily by ensuring that they are quality templates, which do not compromise the operation of the design software.

 

The importance of CAD libraries

 

Obviously the attention to BIM does not make us forget the importance for the company to release CAD libraries. CAD is important because, unlike BIM, it allows to provide more realistic and if necessary photorealistic renderings.

We export the files in AutoCAD formats .DWG, 3D Studio Max .3DS e .MAX, in FBX interchange format.

We develop libraries linked to Revit BIM objects (RFA and RVT) and adsklib libraries, a format that guarantees the advantage of being able to associate commercial technical information with BIM and CAD libraries.

We have dedicated an entire section of the Syncronia website to surfaces, making it easier for designers to provide CAD and BIM libraries of materials, surfaces, floors and coatings.

If you want to take a look, see the link below: free and available CAD libraries for download