Showing papers on "Building information modeling published in 2008"

BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers and Contractors

Abstract: Discover BIM: A better way to build better buildings. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a new approach to design, construction, and facility management in which a digital representation of the building process is used to facilitate the exchange and interoperability of information in digital format. BIM is beginning to change the way buildings look, the way they function, and the ways in which they are designed and built. BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners,Managers, Designers, Engineers, and Contractors provides an in-depth understanding of BIM technologies, the business and organizational issues associated with its implementation, and the profound advantages that effective use of BIM can provide to all members of a project team. The Handbook: Introduces Building Information Modeling and the technologies that support it Reviews BIM and its related technologies, in particular parametric and object-oriented modeling, its potential benefits, its costs, and needed infrastructure Explains how designing, constructing, and operating buildings with BIM differs from pursuing the same activities in the traditional way using drawings, whether paper or electronic Discusses the present and future influences of BIM on regulatory agencies; legal practice associated with the building industry; and manufacturers of building products Presents a rich set of BIM case studies and describes various BIM tools and technologies Shows how specific disciplines?owners, designers, contractors, and fabricators?can adopt and implement BIM in their companies Explores BIM's current and future impact on industry and society Painting a colorful and thorough picture of the state of the art in Building Information Modeling, the BIM Handbook guides readers to successful implementations, helping them to avoid needless frustration and costs and take full advantage of this paradigm-shifting approach to build better buildings, that consume fewer materials, and require less time, labor, and capital resources.

Green BIM: Successful Sustainable Design with Building Information Modeling

Abstract: Meet the challenge of integrating Building Information Modeling and sustainability with this in-depth guide, which pairs these two revolutionary movements to create environmentally friendly design through a streamlined process. Written by an award-winning team that has gone beyond theory to lead the implementation of Green BIM projects, this comprehensive reference features practical strategies, techniques, and real-world expertise so that you can create sustainable BIM projects, no matter what their scale.

Benefits and lessons learned of implementing building virtual design and construction (VDC) technologies for coordination of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems on a large healthcare project

Abstract: SUMMARY: Coordination of Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) systems is a huge challenge for many technical projects such as Healthcare projects, Bio-tech projects and projects in the area of Advanced Technology The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) or Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) tools and processes promises to address the challenges of the MEP coordination process This case study presents the use of BIM / VDC tools and processes for the coordination of MEP systems on a $969M healthcare project in Northern California, USA We discuss the challenges project team members faced in implementing the BIM / VDC tools and processes for MEP coordination, the specific quantitative and qualitative benefits from the use of BIM / VDC tools and processes that each project team member recognized and the lessons that the project team learned by implementing BIM / VDC tools and processes for the coordination of MEP systems Some of the challenges we discuss include the creation and organization of the MEP coordination process using BIM / VDC tools, creation of the guidelines for the most efficient use of BIM / VDC tools for the process of conflict identification and resolution between the MEP subcontractors, and aligning the contractual interests of the coordination team to meet the overall project schedule Some of the benefits that the project team achieved by using the BIM / VDC tools and processes for the coordination of the MEP systems include labor savings ranging from 20 to 30 % for all the MEP subcontractors, 100% pre-fabrication for the plumbing contractor, only one recorded injury throughout the installation of MEP systems over a 250,000 square feet project area, less than 02% rework for the whole project for the mechanical subcontractor, zero conflicts in the field installation of the systems and only a handful of requests for information for the coordination of the MEP systems between contractors and the designers, and 6 months’ savings on the schedule and about $9M savings in cost for the overall project The lessons the team learned include the level and type of details team members need to include to achieve benefits from the use of BIM / VDC tools for the coordination of MEP systems

Integrating Construction Process Documentation into Building Information Modeling

Abstract: The research described in this paper extends the use of building information modeling (BIM) throughout the construction phase of the project life cycle. The owner is a military base that uses three-dimensional (3D) modeling for underground services and the footprints of the buildings. They were interested in determining the feasibility of capturing the construction process and related documents into a similar format. The research was conducted in parallel with traditional methods. The objectives of this project were to create a 3D as-built model, a four-dimensional as-built model, and attach the construction process information to the model for the owner to use after construction. A literature review indicates that BIM application stops at the preconstruction phase with a limited amount of research regarding data collection of the construction process. Significant contributions include practical 3D data collection methods and extending the BIM software products to accommodate construction process documentation. Results indicate that BIM software is not specifically prepared to accomplish these objectives and some modification to procedures as well as software were necessary for the BIM to capture the construction process documentation.

Building Information Modelling (BIM): A new paradigm for visual interactive modeling and simulation for construction project

Abstract: The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industries have long sought techniques to decrease project cost, increase productivity and quality, and reduce project delivery time. Building Information Modeling (BIM) offers the potential to achieve these objectives. BIM represents the development and use of computer-generated n-dimensional (n-D) models to simulate the planning, design, construction and operation of a facility. It helps architects, engineers and constructors to visualize what is to be built in simulated environment and to identify potential design, construction or operational issues. BIM represents a new paradigm within AEC, one that encourages integration of the roles of all stakeholders on a project. It has the potential to bring about great efficiency as well as harmony among players who all too often in the past saw themselves as adversaries. In this paper, the benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM) for the AEC industries are discussed with the help of two case studies. These case studies illustrate the various tangible and intangible benefits achieved by all stakeholders by implementing BIM in their projects. At the end, light is thrown on various BIM related risks and future challenges for the AEC industries.

Towards building information modelling for existing structures

Abstract: Purpose – The transformation of cities from the industrial age (unsustainable) to the knowledge age (sustainable) is essentially a “whole life cycle” process consisting of planning, development, operation, reuse and renewal. During this transformation, a multi‐disciplinary knowledge base, created from studies and research about the built environment aspects is fundamental: historical, architectural, archeologically, environmental, social, economic, etc., and critical. Although there are a growing number of applications of 3D VR modelling applications, some built environment applications such as disaster management, environmental simulations, computer‐aided architectural design and planning require more sophisticated models beyond 3D graphical visualization such as multifunctional, interoperable, intelligent, and multi‐representational. Advanced digital mapping technologies such as 3D laser scanner technologies can be enablers for effective e‐planning, consultation and communication of users' views during ...

Benefits and barriers of building information modelling

Abstract: Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a powerful set of design management’s tool has been highlighted by the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. BIM has significant advantages over the entire building lifecycle, particularly design but also construction and facility management. The full impact of BIM on the evolution of design tools in the AEC industry has recently become a topical research area. This paper opens with a literature review which outlines the historical evolution of design tools. The literature review describes the benefits of BIM claimed by its proponents as well as barriers to its implementation. Next, the paper describes questionnaire data from a survey of about 70 individuals from the AEC industry on BIM adoption, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers. The questionnaire is intended to determine professional opinions about BIM and whether companies adopt BIM tools or plan to adopt this technology. It is found that BIM adoption is much higher in the US than in the rest of the world. Still, the majority of companies were neither currently using BIM technology, nor did they have any plans to use BIM in the future. The paper concludes that improvements are still needed in the development of BIM technology. Secondly, the paper concludes that complete adoption of the technology by the AEC industry will take a few more years.

Case studies in bim implementation for programming of healthcare facilities

Abstract: SUMMARY: Building Information Modeling (BIM) continues to evolve and grow along with their respective application in practice. One of the key advantages of BIM is that is facilitates the development of detailed information and analysis much earlier in the building process to improve decision making and reduce downstream changes. The increases in cost of construction and combined complexity inherent in healthcare construction projects provides an opportunity to harness the strengths of BIM, and provide much more detailed information early in the development of a healthcare construction project. These case studies present evidence of benefits of BIM upstream in the project lifecycle – such as the programming stage. Two healthcare related projects which implemented BIM in the programming phase are presented in this paper. One project is a trauma hospital in a developing country in conflict, and the other is a medical research laboratory in the United States. Each had unique circumstances, but also similarities which help to identify the strengths and challenges of BIM implementation in healthcare projects regardless of the individual projects’ differences. The paper reviews the application of the BIM modeling process for each project. The benefits and challenges from the process used, and the results found are presented. Challenges included data transfer bottlenecks and apprehension due to a lack of knowledge of parametric tools in general. Benefits included visualization, time saved relative to concept updates, and quantity takeoffs. Some basic framing of the strategic implementation of BIM on a construction project are discussed.

Digital Construction through BIM Systems will Drive the Re-engineering of Construction Business Practices

Abstract: The construction industry has been facing a paradigm shift to (i) increase; productivity, efficiency, infrastructure value, quality and sustainability, (ii) reduce; lifecycle costs, lead times and duplications, via effective collaboration and communication of stakeholders in construction projects. Digital construction is a political initiative to address low productivity in the sector. This seeks to integrate processes throughout the entire lifecycle by utilising building information modelling (BIM) systems. The focus is to create and reuse consistent digital information by the stakeholders throughout the lifecycle. However, implementation and use of BIM systems requires dramatic changes in the current business practices, bring new challenges for stakeholders e.g., the emerging knowledge and skill gap. This paper reviews and discusses the status of implementation of the BIM systems around the globe and their implications to the industry. Moreover, based on the lessons learnt, it will provide a guide to tackle these challenges and to facilitate successful transition towards utilizing BIM systems in construction projects.

3d model-based collaboration in design development and construction of complex shaped buildings

Abstract: The successful implementation of complex-shaped buildings within feasible time and budget limits, has brought attention to the potential of computer-aided design and manufacturing technologies (CAD/CAM), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and the need for integrated practice At the core of an integrated practice vision lies the intimate collaboration between the design team and construction team and a digital three-dimensional model, often with parametric and intelligent characteristics With the shift from two-dimensional (2D) paper-based representations to three-dimensional (3D) geometric representations in building information models (BIM), architects and engineers have streamlined ‘inner’ design team communication and collaboration However, practice conventions have posed significant challenges when attempting to collaborate on the designer’s 3D model with the ‘external’ design team – involving the architect (or engineer)-of-record, and contractor, construction manager or fabricator, etc Focusing on the execution of complex-shaped buildings, the objective of this paper is to illustrate varying collaborative approaches to understand how design teams use 3D models to control geometry The authors attempt to provide specific responses to the following questions: What are the issues when collaborating on 3D models? What are the mechanisms that design teams adopt to surpass practice conventions? The findings from three case studies suggest that collaboration methodologies on 3D models differ with the architects’ approaches to geometry control The authors will demonstrate that successful model-based collaboration occurs either on a contractual or non-contractual model issued by the architect

Editorial - Case studies of BIM in use

Abstract: The use of information-rich parametric modeling 3D CAD models is increasing in the AEC industry. With this special issue we want to collect and share the benefits and challenges of using Building Information Modelling (BIM) for stakeholders in the building process, i.e. owners, architects, contractors, suppliers and others. Case studies of BIM applications are currently being presented in conferences and workshops worldwide. An example of such an initiative is the International Alliance of Interoperability initiated Building Smart forum for the industry and governments to identify, test, review, recommend and implement smart ways to deliver quality buildings and services to the facility owners using BIM technology. Another example is the annual award by the American Institute of Architects for projects that have used integrated and interoperable building information models.

Architectural Information Modelling for Virtual Heritage Application

Abstract: In today’s AEC industry (Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry), there has been a vast evolution in the usage of information and communication technology (ICT) for describing and managing construction projects. During the past years this led to the elaboration of the technique Building Information Modelling or BIM for describing buildings and building information according to their different composing elements. One of the major advantages in this BIM approach is the possibility to use this building information for calculation, simulation and analysis in related, more dedicated ICT applications. Starting from the building information model, these applications are accessible through an interoperability language, namely the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), elaborated by the International Alliance for Interoperability or IAI. This paper proposes the development of an approach similar to BIM, namely Architectural Information Modelling (AIM), which describes more theoretical and historical building knowledge instead of the explicit and component-based descriptions inside BIM. It illustrates several possible advantages of this AIM approach for application in building documentation for virtual heritage, combined with possible historical analysis tools. It also makes a short comparison of this technique with procedural methods, a similar technique that is gaining much interest during the past few years in the domain of virtual heritage. Finally, this paper proposes future research ambitions and some conclusions of this first, conceptual research about an architectural information modelling approach.

From CAD to BIM: Educational Strategies for the Coming Paradigm Shift

Abstract: The rapid movement from Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) to Building Information Modeling (BIM) by professional architects and engineers creates several challenges and opportunities for Architecture and Architectural Engineering programs. The BIM methodology offers dramatic new benefits to students that university programs have just begun to explore, but it also will likely trigger trade-off considerations for traditional skills that might be lost. Some educators worry that new BIM activities pose a threat to design thinking. This paper surveys some of the major challenges and opportunities that BIM presents in educational settings, with several suggestions for future directions for exploration. These findings are discussed in the context of several key conclusions that have been developed based on six semesters using BIM in junior- and senior-level architectural design studios in an undergraduate program in Architectural Engineering. The paper remarks on accreditation issues, and it seeks to develop potential ‘best practice’ hallmarks with the goal of stimulating future discussion.

Integrating sustainable building rating systems with building information models

Abstract: The transition from conventional to sustainable building depends on a number of factors— technological, environmental, economic and social. From a computer-aided design perspective, the first two are perhaps the most significant. We are working on a project with an emphasis on developing tools, to evaluate environmental consequences for design decision-making. Our current thrust is given to reducing energy usage as well as carbon emissions in buildings.

Method and apparatus for automatically determining compliance with building regulations

Abstract: A protocol and software program are provided to create tagged representations of model building construction codes that have a tagging schema that reflects the logic and requirements of the codes from the text of the codes. The protocol and software can also be used to create 'smart' versions of Federal, state, and locally adopted versions of the those codes, as well as reference standards and any other rules or regulations. The SMARTcodesTM and embedded schema and tags are usable by model checking software (MCS) as a limiting set of constraints when the MCS reads a building information model (BIM) that contains information about a building to check the building against the SMARTcodesTM and automatically assess code compliance for the building. In addition, the SMARTcodesTM may accessed manually by users through web-based interfaces to provide output that is useful for a variety of purposes.

BIM – implications for government

Abstract: As ‘The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice’ (cited by Riskus (2007) suggests, Building Information Modelling, or BIM, is “the use of virtual building information models to develop building design solutions, design documentation, and to analyse construction processes”. We would suggest such a definition, while useful, should be extended to include the operational phases of built assets (such as maintenance and decommissioning), and also be applied to the whole area of infrastructure. As a set of technologies, BIM holds promise to deliver benefits for the property, construction, and infrastructure management industries – particularly improved efficiencies and effectiveness through enhanced collaboration at all stages of the construction cycle. There are several important qualifiers, barriers, enablers, and some disadvantages with this suite of technologies. This report outlines the costs and benefits enablers and barriers associated with BIM, and makes suggestions about how these issues may be addressed.

What does BIM Mean for Civil Engineers

Abstract: Building information modeling (BIM) is an integrated process built on coordinated, reliable information about a project from design through construction and into operations. This article provides an overview of BIM and discusses how road and highway projects can benefit from design using BIM. While BIM has its roots in architecture, the principles of BIM apply to everything that is built, including roads and highways. BIM allows engineers more easily to predict the performance of projects before they are built; respond to design changes faster; optimize designs with analysis, simulation, and visualization; and deliver higher quality construction documentation. It also enables extended teams to extract valuable data from the model to facilitate earlier decision making and more economic project delivery. Implementing a BIM process for road and highway design starts with creation of coordinated, reliable design information about the project. This results in an intelligent 3-D model of the roadway in which elements of the design are related to each other dynamically. In this way, BIM facilitates evaluation of many more design alternatives. As part of the design process, civil engineers can leverage the information model to conduct simulation and analysis to optimize the design for objectives such as constructability, sustainability, and road safety. Finally, with a BIM process, design deliverables can be created directly from the information model. The most immediate benefits of BIM for road and highway design are better designs and increased efficiency and productivity. Because design and construction documentation are dynamically linked, the time needed to evaluate more alternatives, execute design changes, and produce construction documentation is reduced significantly. This is particularly important for transportation agencies because it can shorten the time to contract letting, resulting in projects being completed sooner and within more predictable timetables.

Adopting building information modeling (BIM) as collaboration platform in the design industry

Abstract: This paper discusses the preliminary findings of an ongoing research project aimed at developing a technological, operational and strategic analysis of adopting BIM in AEC/FM (Architecture-Engineering-Construction/Facility Management) industry as a collaboration tool. Outcomes of the project will provide specifications and guidelines as well as establish industry standards for implementing BIM in practice. This research primarily focuses on BIM model servers as a collaboration platform, and hence the guidelines are aimed at enhancing collaboration capabilities. This paper reports on the findings from: (1) a critical review of latest BIM literature and commercial applications, and (2) workshops with focus groups on changing work-practice, role of technology, current perception and expectations of BIM. Layout for case studies being undertaken is presented. These findings provide a base to develop comprehensive software specifications and national guidelines for BIM with particular emphasis on BIM model servers as collaboration platforms.

Using Building Information Modeling to Improve the Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Coordination Process for Buildings

Abstract: The coordination of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems has become a major challenge for building contractors. Specialty design firms and trade contractors, working independently, provide these systems. The coordination of these systems involves locating equipment and routing Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) duct, pipe, and electrical raceway in a manner that satisfies many different types of constraints. For the past several years MEP coordination has involved sequentially comparing and overlaying drawings from multiple trades, in which representatives from each MEP trade work together to detect, and eliminate spatial and functional interferences between MEP systems. This multi-discipline effort is time-consuming and expensive. With the recent development of Building Information Modeling (BIM) this process is now able to evolve with the software technology. Using examples from several case studies, this paper demonstrates how BIM can improve the MEP coordination process in buildings. The results of this research provide a foundation for a revised work process utilizing modeling software and information technology.

Sharing Building Information using the IFC Data Model for FDS Fire Simulation

Abstract: This paper describes part of a research project that looks into the potential and challenge of using the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) open standard building information model in fire engineering design. In particular the paper describes work undertaken to share building geometry and other information with the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) fire simulation model. A commercially available building information modeling (BIM) authoring application has been used to create building geometries and export IFC data files. A web-based conversion tool has been created to generate FDS input data given the output from a dedicated fire engineering IFC parser tool. The capabilities and outcome of data sharing process is illustrated in this paper using a simple test case building.

From CAD to BIM: The Experience of Architectural Education with Building Information Modeling

Abstract: In the spring of 2006, Montana State University began to include a Building Information Modeling (BIM) program in its digital graphics and design curriculum. Since then, an increasing number of students have had the experience of designing with BIM programs and comparing their processes and final products with other students who are using traditional Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs. While 2-dimensional CAD and 3dimensional BIM models may simply be tools to accomplish the same end, they provide two radically different approaches to learning architectural design. This paper discusses the implications of BIM with respect to the student experience. Within this topic, the paper describes the classes in which students are using BIM software and exactly how the experience of designing with BIM is different than the experience of designing in two dimensions. The paper also outlines the ways in which we can expect BIM to alter architectural education in the near term as well as in the future. Lastly, the paper addresses the concern that many have that Building Information Modeling hinders creativity. The paper concludes with some recommendations as to how BIM can be used to the greatest advantage in the classroom. Opportunities in the Curriculum The architectural curriculum at Montana State University currently offers students the opportunity to learn Building Information Modeling programs in two separate classes. The first is a digital graphics course for sophomore-level students. In this class, a variety of software programs are introduced in the hopes that students will get a sense for which of these tools they would like to become more familiar with and use during the course of their design education. Drawing programs, such as AutoCAD, free-form 3-d modeling programs such as 3D Rhinoceros and BIM programs like ArchiCAD and Revit Building are introduced along with rendering programs and several components of the adobe creative suite such as Photoshop and InDesign. The second course, offered in the final year of the undergraduate program, is a required construction documents class emphasizing BIM modeling programs and providing students with another opportunity to learn and use BIM programs. This course involves the creation of a small set of construction documents and also covers cost estimating and specification writing. In this course, the time saved by using a BIM is significant and therefore it is at this time that many students genuinely learn to use a BIM program. In the design studio however, students at Montana State use a broad array of rendering and drawing methods. Some create 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional presentation materials by hand. Others handdraw or use AutoCAD for 2-dimensional drawings and render free-form digital models for perspective views of the building. A growing number use BIM modeling tools in the studio. In the final years of the program these tools are especially useful in the design studio; by this time, we are required to integrate electrical, mechanical and plumbing

Improving architectural design analysis using 3d modeling and visualization techniques

Abstract: In Architectural Design and Education, it is common to refer to prior design cases. This is apparent in a teaching context, where students study existing projects, but also in a professional context, where reflection on existing design examples can inform the designer about possible solutions or as historic reference. With the increased usage of 3D techniques in visualization, simulation and Building Information Modelling, architects nowadays produce more and more designs as 3D models. While these models provide new means to visualize and interrogate the design, much of this potential is left unused, as the models are seldom shared to exchange design information. This article discusses results from the 3D reconstruction of exemplary building projects and sites from recent history. The reconstructions used widely differing techniques, from regular 3D modelling using CAD and visualization software, to extensive measuring and surveying techniques. These examples illustrate the added value 3D models enable, compared to traditional drawings or photographs. Even the structure and presentation of recent design projects can be improved using diagrams and overlays, capitalizing on the results of the 3D modelling efforts. In parallel, it is possible to improve and increase information about the design, by adding additional metadata to the 3D model. The “enrichment” of the 3D models make better structured information available, which can in turn, facilitate the retrieval and recovery of such models, when searching or browsing for design information through online repositories. The combination of these diverse techniques enables an increased accessibility of the inherent design information, which would not be established using each technique as such.

A Study on Application of BIM (Building Information Modeling) to Pre-design in Construction Project

Abstract: Construction project pre-design phase is highly influential in setting the directions for the whole business and project to proceed. Thus, it is essential to collect and analyze enormous amount of data related to construction project. So far, the pre-design phase in a project was depending on experts' experience and intuition. However, as construction projects become larger and more complex, the amount of related information and analyzed data increases. Therefore, the necessity arises for a plan that could directly support the pre-design phase. In this paper, BIM was suggested as a tool that will support the pre-design phase, and so the concept and role of pre-design BIM is defined. The framework of pre-design BIM simulation is composed using the international standard model IFC and how the pre-design BIM simulation system can support the process is illustrated.