Week 10-Course Reflection

This term has gone so quick, it’s weird to think I am writing the course reflection already. When I signed up for this course I was unsure of what I would be learning and how it would apply to my profession, but I quickly found out. As we all know Professor Mitchell has a way of making us learn a ton of information in an easy to manage way, and I thank him for that. This course has provided a lot of insight and background to the tools and programs we use in our everyday lives, either in school or at work. For example, the in class exercise that allowed us to create a "story" where we brought together all of the themes of the course showed how much we have learned in just 10 weeks. I for one, can say that if I was given this exercise in the first couple of weeks I would have difficulty completing it, especially with the short time period. Prior to this course, I did not actually know what databases were and how they operated. By incorporating two unknowns, databases and sensors, into a basic relational database tutorial/assignment, I can walk away knowing what they are used for, why they are used, and how important they are to our everyday lives, even if it is only a basic understanding of databases. Another lesson that stood out to me was the reading on interoperability relating to BIM. Most of the problems I have come across while using BIM programs, specifically Revit, have to do with various systems sharing data or information not being interpreted correctly, which all fall under the category of interoperability. Interoperability is still a work in progress and trouble shooting some of the current issues are more complicated than some may think. As an architectural engineer I am not the one who creates or fixes the artificial technologies, but am instead the one using it. Even though I am not the creator of these technologies, I believe they are important for clients and engineers to understand, because knowing how they operate and how they communicate with each other can help predict or identify problems within the technology being used. That being said, I am glad that I chose this course for my professional elective, as it has given me a deeper understanding of the current and up and coming technologies used in the industry and how I can go forward in my career thinking about these technologies and their benefits.

Comments:

Abdul,

I agree with the “This has been one of the most simple yet, challenging classes” statement. I feel like we have all learned a lot and were challenged with the information at hand, but we were able to be successful because of the format and available resources. Congrats on graduation!

Ina,

I am also glad that we were able to gain experience with programs like Dynamo and Microsoft Access. We have all recently learned that we are expected to know programs like these without having a formal introduction to them, which proves to be extra difficult and most of the time incorrect when we have to teach ourselves.

Isabel,

I also like the variety that this course contains. Not only did we have hands on experience with our learning, but we were able to learn from guest speakers that were once in our seats, which does not often happen in your everyday class. I think that hearing these speakers was helpful, as we found out about various coop options and what people like them actually do on a day to day basis.

B5-Mika Awai-SQL in databases

Generally speaking databases are organized sets of data that are contained in or accessed through a computer. Relational databases, which are digital databases based on the relational model of data, use SQL for querying and maintaining the database. Structured Query Language (SQL) is a domain-specific language used in programming, which was started about 50 years ago in the 1970’s. It is designed for managing data or for stream processing in a relational data steam management system. [2] This is the standard language when it comes to relational database management systems. Database updates or information retrieval use SQL statements. The SQL commands that are used in conjunction with other database extensions are “Select”, “Insert”, “Update”, “Delete”, “Create”, and “Drop”. [1] These basis SQL commands are able to achieve almost all the needs of a database.

There is also something called NoSQL, which is another type of database management system, but instead are non-relational databases.These databases are used for large volumes of data that would cause the response time of a relational database to slow down. NoSQL databases are specialized systems and still have their limitations. They are better suited towards sites that deal with large amounts of data such as Google or Amazon. That being said, it is important to learn about SQL databases because they still have more advantages than NoSQL databases. SQL databases have a secure storage and management model, they allow for control of the view of data, they allow for developers the add to the existing database, and they have better security models for their data storage.[3] In addition to the advantages over NoSQL, it is important for data scientists to learn SQL because it is easy to learn and understand, it integrates well with  other coding languages, it has the ability to deal with huge data sets, and it is a highly marketable programming language.[4] Overall, SQL is one of the starting languages used to create relational databases, it has the ability for communication between relational databases, and if you learn SQL you will have an entry to more science data jobs.

Sources:

[1] SQLCourse. “What Is SQL?” SQLCourse, 20 Aug. 2000, www.sqlcourse.com/intro.html.

[2] “SQL.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 4 Feb. 2020, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SQL.

[3] “What Is Database? What Is SQL?” Guru99, www.guru99.com/introduction-to-database-sql.html.

[4] Onyango, Francis. “5 Reasons Every Aspiring Data Scientist Must Learn SQL.” Medium, Analytics Vidhya, 1 July 2019, medium.com/analytics-vidhya/5-reasons-every-aspiring-data-scientist-must-learn-sql-2bab007a8d76.

Comments:

Dane,

Everything you mentioned in your post is true. Minimal technology is taken into the field, but with the incorporation of even the most simple form of database, the overall construction process could be improved from timing, to cost, to communication, all of which play an important role in a project. 

Douha,

It was interesting to learn more in depth what a relational database is, as I researched SQL and they go hand in hand together. I understood that when broken down it is essentially rows and columns working together. The class registration was a good example of this type of database and how we use them more than we are aware of.

Pritesh,

From your post and others my understanding of a object oriented database is one that is similar to a relational database, but is presented in a different form that may be easier to visualize. Because I am unfamiliar with databases in general, i’m not sure what other “real-world entities” could be presented as an object, but I am interested to find out more.

B4 Mika Awai-Project Description

As a group, Amanda, Brian, and I have decided to research the various types of BIM software that assist in the design of green and sustainable buildings. With this research we will explore how these softwares improve the overall design process and how they can benefit the owners, engineers, facilities managers, and any other parties working on a project. 

To start, we were given guidance to determine what we deem green and sustainable buildings to be and whether we think they are the same or different. Most of the time we hear the two words interchanged when discussing building design, but after reading a few industry definitions and talking amongst ourselves, we believe that green is a branch of sustainable. Energy efficiency, water usage, and materials can also be considered to be branches of sustainability, where sustainability is seen as anything done to lower the demands on the environment.We have gathered a list of numerous different things that can be monitored in a building to help make it more sustainable. These include: water usage, building material, renewable resources, air quality, energy efficiency, building position/location, etc. Along with these building aspects, we have looked into few specific BIM programs that monitor and suggest changes that can be made to a building to improve its overall sustainability. A few of the popular programs that we have heard of or are familiar with are eQuest, Revit Insight, and Autodesk Green Building Studio, which all help in designing a sustainable/green structure, but are each tailored towards something more specific.

Being able to monitor the design of a building in depth from the start has the ability to improve cost, time, overall design, and most importantly the sustainability. These softwares not only improve the design process and finished product, but they improve the communication between trades. Owners, facilities managers, and engineers are all able to benefit from these programs, as they are able to suggest changes to a project that someone otherwise would not have thought of. We will explore what programs benefit each party and why, along with how these programs help in the process of becoming LEED certified. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a point system that ranks a building on performance. The more points a building has, the higher the rank. The points are based off of five categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality, all of which can be monitored and designed through the various BIM softwares available for use.

Comments:

Michael,

You're project sounds very interesting. I had never heard of Kaggle before, so I looked it up to learn more about it. Although I am not familiar with coding of any type, but I find it interesting that you can create something that can predict energy usage based on the characteristics of a building and weather patterns. I find this model particularly interesting because it ties into the project I am doing with my group, which is how BIM softwares can help in green/sustainable buildings.

Varsha,

Your project reminds me of the start of this course. We saw that drones in construction are becoming more and more popular and we saw that robots are able to build chunks of a building off-site in a fraction of the time that people can do it. I like the idea of robots assisting me in the work I do day to day, and in a sense they are with computers, but I have yet to see it on a larger scale. Id like to know how and when they think these robots are going to be an everyday part of our lives.

Manon,

As someone who is discussing sustainable building design I think it would be cool to see how many fields within a building process are able to increase the overall sustainability. From a previous blog post, I know that 3D printing is hard to do on a large scale and the materials used in 3D printing are not evolved enough for many types of building. I do know that with additive manufacturing we are able to save money and time when it comes to the construction process.

Mika Awai Blog Post 3- Current Problems with Revit/BIM

From the discussions in class and readings done individually, we all know that BIM is ever evolving. Its expanding and used in almost all types of building design. That being said, BIM is technology and all technology comes with problems. 

Interoperability, the ability for computer systems or software to exchange and make use of data, is one of the biggest problems that lies in BIM. Not all information is able to be relayed or interpreted correctly. This can be seen when model sharing or collaboration on one central model are unable to save or update because of the multiple users that are accessing that model. Data loss is one of the worst parts of the lack of interoperability of BIM servers. Software updates can also cause problems, as this type of data sharing relies on many moving parts and proper translation in the codes, but there are software engineers always working to try and fix any glitches in the system.

Currently, most BIM users input data for a project manually and let the computer (or “robot”) do the work for us based on a set of algorithms. The algorithms used in BIM software have the ability to do so much more, but the users are not aware or do not have the proper training to utilize the software to its full potential. I think the evolution of the technology used in construction is a lot faster than the people using the technology can actually learn it. These advances and updates to programs, such as Revit, are expensive and there are a lot of companies that want to stay up to date and competitive with what they are producing, but might not be able to afford to do so. I for one know that learning Revit is frustrating and confusing, so each time there is an update or newer version available means that more time is needed to learn the new/updated features, and time is money. This is why I think it is important to have exposure to the programs used in the “real world”, as it would benefit you and the firm you are working for.

Sources:

Allen, Bill. “The Future of BIM Will Not Be BIM and It's Coming Faster Than You Think.” Autodesk University, 16 Oct. 2019, www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/article/Future-BIM-Will-Not-Be-BIM-and-Its-Coming-Faster-You-Think-2017.

Comments:

Spencer,

As BIM continues to expand in its abilities, we can see it as a positive and a negative for us users. You mention data waste and interoperability, which are current problems that we face and could potentially be future problems, but what if the programing evolves so much that there is minimal use for human interference. Robots have been on the rise and are capable of doing so much, I worry that instead of helping us as an addition to the construction process, they might be able to do most of it without the need of humans.

Abdul,

 I believe all of the topics you touched on are important to the future of design. Sustainability is a goal that everyone is working towards achieving, but the two other topics I found interesting/helpful were the detailed visualization and the higher quality results. Being able to see a model in 4D or 5D can help to see any collisions and have a clearer idea of the work that is being produced. This higher quality work is translated into better drawings with accuracy for the contractors, which helps the construction phase, as well as anyone who needs to look at those drawings in the future.

Jake,

Although I have not used all of the aspects that are in the top 5 advantages to using Revit, I do like the parametric components. Being able to edit ductwork or piping in 2D and then being able to see that edit in 3D is not only cool, but extremely helpful with coordination. I also appreciate the ability to link CAD into revit and them both having a similar interface, it helped with my first coop of only knowing CAD but having to learn Revit. It probably cut the learning time by 50% if not more.

Mika Awai- B2 Interoperability

To start, the basic meaning of interoperability is the ability for computer systems or software to exchange and make us of data. Being able to integrate different programs/systems into our everyday lives and relying on them to exchange information and process it correctly is crucial. This type of software communication is seen in many different things such as military equipment, hospitals and pharmacies, and BIM/Revit models. Direct links based on the programing interfaces in use are a crucial route to the success of interoperability. File sharing between applications is a main key when working in a BIM server. The BIM servers allow the collaboration or synchronization of multiple models (mechanical, plumbing, electrical, etc.) all part of a single project.

Although interoperability allows for complex data sharing on BIM, there are still problems that occur for the more advanced program users, which unfortunately include data loss, and I know most of us have experienced losing work and it is beyond frustrating. Limited coverage of a data model, translator problems, software bugs or implementation problems, and software domain problems are the most common technical occurrences that would affect the interoperability of a BIM server. Issues also arise when multiple people on a project have different model versions or are unwilling to share information, which can occur between the architect, structural engineer, mechanical engineer, etc. 

There are three main different types of data exchanges that occur based on the type of problems that can occur. The three main types are direct links, file-based data exchange, and model-server based data exchange. Direct links are exactly what they sound like, a link between two applications that allow for importation, creation, modification, deletion and more between the two apps. These are often times used within a companies own product family because it allows for better support. File-based data exchange is where a model is exchanged using a proprietary exchange format or a publicly open standard format, where proprietary is commercial and can be published or private. Model-server based data exchange is where model information/data is exchanged through a database management system, i.e a BIM server.

The design field has progressed and the ability to create and share models and associated data has also progressed due to the development of BIM, specifically the incorporation of interoperability. As humans we want things to be readily available and easily accessible even when it comes to software. If someone came up with a software that could do everything, there wouldn't be need for much else. Thats not the case, but we do have compatible programs that organizations are able to use that make it easier for many different people to collaborate on and and produce a well rounded project.

Source:

Eastman, Chuck, et al. BIM Handbook : A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Designers, Engineers, Contractors, and Facility Managers, John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated, 2018. ProQuest Ebook Central, http://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/drexel-ebooks/detail.action?docID=5447327.

Comments:

Spencer,

Often times when people are using modeling programs we are go through the motions not knowing how the geometry relations are made(parallel lines, angles, dimensions). I found it interesting to know the development of solid modeling and parametric modeling and how expensive it was to have a parametric modeling software back in the 70’s and 80’s. Apart from the interoperability problems of BIM, it is impressive to see the technological advances made over the 50 years and how we went from only hand drawn models to almost all computer drawn models.

Amanda,

After using BIM at work I can to say it is an incredibly helpful tool in many aspects. Although I do not have much experience with the energy efficiency programs within BIM, I can see how they would be helpful when predicting future costs of a building. I have primarily worked with the HVAC systems within a building, so knowing that 40% of the energy use in the U.S. comes heating, cooling, and electric it encourages me to pay more attention to the design and its efficiency.

Ina,

As we read the same chapter we now both have a better understanding of what interoperability is and its role in BIM. I was aware of the problems involved with the translation of data between applications, but what I found interesting in your post was the discussion of how they are able to translate data into different languages. The creation of the bSDD program is something I find cool and important to the progression of these programs, as it allows for more work sharing opportunities around the world.

Blog Post 1- Mika Awai

3D Printing and Structures:

3D printing is often times thought to primarily make small prototype models, components of items, or pieces needed for medical use. Either way, most of the items made are small, but that is starting to change as larger 3D printers are becoming more prevalent. In the article “Giant 3D printers for making boats, bridges, buildings, and rockets” researchers at the University of Maine are exploring the use of these large printers and their ability to produce large structures, such as a boat. Compared to a normal boat that can take months to build by hand a 25 ft. patrol boat was built in just 72 hours using a giant 3D printer [1]. The university assumes that being able to 3D print the American Army patrol boat, it will reduce the cost and time needed to produce future boats. I would take that assumption a bit further and say that any structure that can be built using a 3D printer will cut the time and cost needed to produce that item.

That being said, the larger the item, the larger the printer is needed to complete the project. The university is continuing their research by changing the composites that the 3D printers use in order to make them more eco friendly, with an overall goal of using a material that is 50% wood, as it would be as strong and light as aluminum [1].

Materials used throughout the 3D printing process are also being expanded upon and improved. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, who worked in conjunction with the University of Maine, are expanding their moulds for concrete castings, as well as printing precast concrete directly. Chad Mirkin has also discovered a way to improve 3D printing using imaging and liquid polymers, which allows a wide range of materials to be printed in a fraction of the time compared to a conventional 3D printer. Heavy metal printing is a much more difficult task for the printers to complete. They are overcoming the complexities by using special welding torches that blow an inert gas onto the weld to prevent the metal powder being used from oxidizing or exploding. All things considered, the expansion of printer size and printer material will allow for more and more structures to be built in just a fraction of the time. Not all things in life can be made from a printer, but a lot of everyday things can be.

BIM:

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is becoming a more commonly used term in the construction/engineering industry, and I for one have been part of the BIM movement at my previous co-ops. In the video “Building Information Modeling (BIM) by Peter Caplehorn, UK Construction Products Association” Peter discusses where the ideas of BIM came from and why they work so well. The idea stems from cars and aircrafts, which are primarily designed, manufactured, and assembled on a computer. He says why not take this idea and apply it to buildings. By being able to manufacture and assemble parts and pieces takes the problems and the bugs out and achieves reliability in the projects that are being produced [2]. He also points out that BIM modeling is much more than a drawing or a 3D model image, BIM is more about the data it is able to store, which goes on to support the 3D images created. I personally have not thought too deep into how much data is actually stored in the BIM models I have worked on, but it is a lot. These programs are developed to improve reliability, performance, health and safety, and any other aspects needed for a complete building. The one takeaway we should always remember is that BIM=data [2].

Resources:

[1] Science and Tech. “Giant 3D Printers for Making Boats, Bridges, Buildings and Rockets.” The Economist, The Economist Newspaper, Nov. 2019, www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2019/11/14/giant-3d-printers-for-making-boats-bridges-buildings-and-rockets.

[2] Caplehorn, Peter. “Building Information Modeling (BIM) by Peter Caplehorn, UK Construction Products Association.” YouTube, YouTube, Apr. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn4Pwoc3Ndo.

Comments:

Steve,

Like you, I read the article about 3D printing various structures. While 3D printing entire buildings from scratch might seem like a reach, I do think it is important to remember how much time and money could potentially be saved. With the exploration of numerous new materials able to be incorporated into the printing action, the possibility of what can be created is endless. These larger printers still need more developing before we, as a society, can trust them to build my school or home in a month.

Andrew,

I found it fun to read your article about artificial intelligence, as most of us now have it incorporated into our lives in more ways than one. I always find it a bit funny when people don't want an "alexa" or "google home" because they think its just an easy way for the government to listen to them, when in reality we all have phones and computers that allow for the same thing. I also think there needs to be a line for AI because it is not all secure. If something should be tailored to a single person it can easily be changed by someone hacking a system. The technology behind it is amazing, but its not all figured out just yet.

Abdul,

I also found the conversation about the use of robots in technology interesting. I can say that this type of work goes hand in hand with 3D printing parts and pieces needed for construction. The use of robots allows for communication on an entirely new level, between both humans and robots. And although most of the robots in use are man made, one day the robots will be building robots, which is far to much for me to think about right now.

Mika Awai

Background:
My name is Mika Awai. Im a 4th year Architectural Engineering major with a concentration in HVAC. I have worked with two MEP firms, gaining experience with BIM and other useful programs used in the industry. I specifically have done work on office buildings, hospitals, and pharmaceutical laboratories. Each of the projects ranged in size and varied from a small remodel to a brand new building.

Expectations:
My expectations for the course are to learn more about the way all systems interact with each other while incorporating smart features in a building. I also expect to learn more about the technology used in the industry, such as Revit and Databases.

Evernote:
The evernote article I found most interesting was "Why (most) Future Robots Won’t Look Like Robots", which discusses why they won't take on a human form and will be invisibly embedded everywhere in common objects.

Intelligent Building Definition:

An intelligent building is one with smart features that are used to improve the building quality and/or economic impact the building has.

Students in the Intelligent Building

These students are taking Intelligent Building in AY19-2.   This post is mostly here to allow creation of the labels.

Varsha Ajith Abdulrahman Alhafath Dane Bell Douha Alqudaihi Mika Awai Isabel Brooks Cory Christopher Manon Flamini Jacob Hall Brian Huynh Vishist Jain Spencer Kociba Amanda Kolar Abigail Kryszan Michael Manley Reece Masucci Brian Mynaugh Andrew Norris Liam Ossenfort Stephen Pettit Pritesh Prajapati Michael Sciarra Ina Sison Madeleine Walker-Elders