Research on digital modelling began in the early 1960s. In 1963, Ivan Sutherland was working with wireframe graphics and developed “sketchpad”, providing the kick-off for digital modelling. Surface modelling was later presented in 1967 by Steven Anson Coons in an MIT technical report titled “surfaces for computer-aided design of space forms”.

The beginning of BIM idea started in 1974 with Charles Eastman is publication “An outline of the building description system: Research report no. 50”. The concept grew and was consolidated after the arrival of parametric modelling in 1990, since parametric modelling allowed all the shapes of the model to be changed and not only the individual elements. With the evolution of parametric modelling among other techniques, such as reality capture, the data obtained have enabled the entire collaborative process to be improved, resulting in the current BIM concept. An Autodesk video briefly resumes the historical development of the BIM concept.

References:

Coons, S.A., (1967), “Surfaces for computer-aided design of space forms”, MAC-TR-41, M.I.T

Eastman C.M., Fisher D., Lafue G., Lividini J., Stoker D., Yessios C., (1974) “An outline of the building description system: Research report no. 50”, (Pittsburgh, PA: Carnegie-Mellon University)