One of the most important exchanges
in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) industry is that of
information and building data. There can be information about existing
conditions, about client wants and needs, about varying system integrations and
so on. It is imperative that these information exchanges are as smooth as
possible for the best end result, at which point one is left to consider the
role of interoperability. Interoperability is defined as “the ability to
exchange data between applications”. This term can be applied on a variety of
levels, but a large area of focus is surrounding BIM technology.
Throughout the design and construction of a building there is a variety of engineers, designers, construction managers and other valuable employees all working on different aspects. However, all of these aspects have to integrate seamlessly into the same project. Accurate and updated information exchange is imperative to do so correctly and efficiently. Historically, the most widely used information exchange in the AEC industry was via Intergraph. A variety of software was used by different companies to translate the data in Intergraph to fit their file content needs, which came with its own struggles. NASA found they were spending too much money on translating these files so they funded and developed the IGES (International Graphics Exchange Specification) to allow for minimal translation of data.
Data exchanges methods can be broken down into three main types: direct links, file-based data exchange, and model-server based data exchange. Direct link data exchanges occur through two data applications via an Application Programming Interface (API). They typically take place when the model is not advanced enough to support the exchange on its own. This can occur via real time exchange calling one application from another, such as an analysis tool being called within a modelling software. File-based data exchanges take place specifically through a model file. An example of this type of format would be DXF or RVT files, both designed by Autodesk. Model-server based data exchanges are a method of exchanging data via a Database Management System(DBMS). This method is preferred over the file-based method because integrated AI systems allow for a reduction in commonly come across interoperability problems. Some of these problems include missing data or conflicting systems.
Most recently interoperability technologies used in the AEC industries are specifically referred to as BIM Servers. A BIM Server is a database that pulls together and facilitates the management of all project related data. They are defined primarily by their information transaction and synchronization. Transactions that occur within a BIM Server are file based and allow the entire building model to be saved as a singular piece of information. Different functionalities within this include RFI’s, meeting minutes, change orders and design issues too. Synchronization allows for concurrent engineering, which basically updates the model for every user so each engineer is working on the most recent design. As a mechanical engineer, this can be very helpful; it’s imperative that systems do not physically coincide with one another in a building. If the HVAC system is being designed while an electrical system is being updated as well, the two can keep each other in mind so as to avoid any unwanted interactions or conflicts. However, if the synchronization is off, and structural designs are based on an old version of the architecture, for example, the project is set back and time was wasted.
Interoperability, communication, data synchronization. These components are all imperative for functionality and success of a project. As database technology has advanced so has that of BIM Serves, data management and modelling in general. Imagine how many mistakes have been made in the past due to miscommunication and lack of coordination technology. As the interoperability and information exchange improve, these mistakes will be minimized and building efficiency can only get better.
Works Cited:
Chuck Eastman et al., BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers and Contractors (3rd Edition Wiley, 2018)
Comments:
Spencer: https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b2-bim-core-technologies-and-software.html
I really like how you highlighted just how far BIM technology has come and how quickly things have advanced. It's shocking how expensive the parametric software was in the 1980s; I can see why that made it so unattainable for people. It makes you wonder what's available now that most small scale companies can not afford but would really benefit from. I like the way you broke down the components of a BIM system it was helpful to see how it is broken up and what they are in such a clear and concise manner.
Dane: https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/dane-bell-blog-2.html
I definitely have experienced firsthand the differences between the engineers, construction workers, and contractors. Each individual sees the plans one way and often times it is completely different from how the others see it. Common contractor complaints are that engineers design systems without any real understanding of what it actually takes to build what they're asking for. I can definitely see how integrating 3D and 4D design would be an improvement, although on site technology to view the plans would have to compatible for all those involved.
Manon: https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b2-core-technologies-and-software.html
I had no idea there were so many different BIM modelling softwares available! Out of what you listed I had only really used or even heard of Revit. DESTINI profiler seems like a really cool concept; as much as designers want to believe they can do whatever they want the cost assessment is even more important. Engineers and architects have to be mindful not to over design a system to the point where it is no longer within the client's budget. It seems like DESTINI Profiler would be really helpful for a lot of engineering and construction firms
Comments:
Spencer: https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b2-bim-core-technologies-and-software.html
I really like how you highlighted just how far BIM technology has come and how quickly things have advanced. It's shocking how expensive the parametric software was in the 1980s; I can see why that made it so unattainable for people. It makes you wonder what's available now that most small scale companies can not afford but would really benefit from. I like the way you broke down the components of a BIM system it was helpful to see how it is broken up and what they are in such a clear and concise manner.
Dane: https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/dane-bell-blog-2.html
I definitely have experienced firsthand the differences between the engineers, construction workers, and contractors. Each individual sees the plans one way and often times it is completely different from how the others see it. Common contractor complaints are that engineers design systems without any real understanding of what it actually takes to build what they're asking for. I can definitely see how integrating 3D and 4D design would be an improvement, although on site technology to view the plans would have to compatible for all those involved.
Manon: https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b2-core-technologies-and-software.html
I had no idea there were so many different BIM modelling softwares available! Out of what you listed I had only really used or even heard of Revit. DESTINI profiler seems like a really cool concept; as much as designers want to believe they can do whatever they want the cost assessment is even more important. Engineers and architects have to be mindful not to over design a system to the point where it is no longer within the client's budget. It seems like DESTINI Profiler would be really helpful for a lot of engineering and construction firms
3 comments:
I enjoyed your discussion on data sharing, and you hit the nail on the head. I have personally seen how the exchange of information or lack thereof can lead to slowdowns in the process and money out of pocket for the firms or consultants involved.
Izzy,
Although we read the same chapter, you touched on some important points that I overlooked. A great topic you discussed was synchronization. This is such as important feature of BIM software because it allows for every member on the team to be aware of the work other people are doing. Another benefit of this is that the team is constantly collaborating as they are working, opposed to meeting up once or twice a week to discuss issues. Synchronization really speeds up the design process and allows for more efficient team collaboration.
Isabel,
I think you made a great point in the the seamless interaction between application's is vital for the functionality and success of a project. I have many times struggles to transfer data in between modeling platforms, which make analysis harder and longer to perform. Being able to jump from one application to another without any issues allows for data to be more accurate and for better analysis to be performed.
Post a Comment