B6 - Final Reflections

When I signed up for this course I had already had a significant amount of experience with BIM and the use of data in construction. I had done research and had co-op experience utilizing technology to enhance the quality of work and make workflows more efficient. However, this class challenged me to look beyond what I was hoping to interact with for my career in BIM and Virtual Design and Construction. I have been exposed to relational database structures and how the tools that I use everyday rely on their usage. I also learned quite a bit about the use of sensors in a building; a subject that I was vaguely aware of but had never had any real experience with.

The best experience of the class, in my opinion, was the term-long project. I had the time and resources to explore Dynamo and how it could improve the work that I plan to be doing for a career in the near future. I hope to meet with my mentors and supervisors to discuss CRB’s technology and innovation agenda for the next few years. Referencing this class’ project, lecture content, and Evernote files, I see myself being able to make a real, tangible difference at a firm, even at the co-op level.

This class gave me pointers and techniques to look for to improve workflows and stay ahead of the technology curve. I now have more resources to keep a finger on the pulse of the industry and the vocabulary to have meaningful conversations about intelligent buildings. I also enjoyed the industry professional guest lectures. I felt that they all had different perspectives on the use of technology and where the architectural, engineering, and construction industry is heading in terms of innovation. It was helpful to have the opportunity to ask questions about potential careers related to intelligent building and what we can expect to see at the entry-level when we start full time.

I was excited to take this class with Professor Mitchell specifically before he retired. I enjoyed hearing his perspective on Intelligent Buildings based on his previous experience as a professional and then later as a professor. I appreciated his approach to the course where he gave us small picture solutions to big picture applications. The nature of technological innovation is that it is constantly changing and we may not know what to expect, but Mitchell does a great job with giving suggestions on how to keep up or, better yet, to advance the progress.

Comments:
Amanda,
I agree with you. Sometimes the most difficult part of staying ahead of the technology curve is just learning what all is out there. I thought that this class helped me to broaden my scope to a world outside of just Revit and BIM. Hopefully we can find ways to professionally be exposed to new technologies so that we can be the ones advocating for a strong technological agenda.
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Brian,
I loved your comment about how this course is looking beyond the present industry. I thought that was very insightful and I completely agree. So much of our education at Drexel is based around present applications of theories, it was refreshing to be in a course that extrapolated current trends and explored the possibilities of what the future of construction holds.
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Varsha,
If you're interested in more applications of BIM and technology and construction, I highly recommend taking CMGT 375 next winter term (the prereq is CMGT course, but I convinced my advisor to take my INFO 203 course as an equivalent course to get in). Ben Ferrer from Turner Construction is the adjunct professor that teaches it and he goes more in depth about the applications and uses of BIM rather than the functions. It was my first introduction academically to BIM and I haven't looked back since. Great to hear that you've enjoyed the class as well!
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B5 - The Use of Databases in Construction Firms

The construction industry is arguably an industry of ideas and information, especially in this digital age. Past the point of idea formation, those ideas are then translated into information stored in models and schedules and that is what becomes the main commodity for the majority of the project. The client is essentially buying the information and ideas from architects and engineers. That information is then in the hands of the contractor doing the work, and that is when it all becomes tangible. This conversion is crucial to the efficiency and cost effectiveness of a project. Because of this, a construction firms work revolves around the data held within and extracted from the models they receive. In order to properly store, access, and manage this data, firms have to use databases. As discussed in the article I read for this post, tactics like data warehousing can be used for decision making purposes. Likewise databases can be used for tracking and predicting accurate project scheduling and avoiding large costly project delays. Furthermore, databases can be used to house and present information about each component of the building in a visually appealing manner to the client. This then becomes a perk or service of a construction firm to sell. Databases play a very crucial role in the industry and in this day and age provide the backbone to the work these firms conduct.

Elvira
Hey,

I read through this article too so it was interesting to hear your take on it. The planning, coordinating, and organizational aspects that databases present firms like this is by far the most beneficial aspect in my opinion. I think you also bring up some interesting points of the different type of databases and how the different ways they are accessed can be helpful lin different ways.
https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b5-databases-x-construction.html

Cory
Hey,

I like your ideas about using a language that's universal especially given the amount of coordination that has to go into an industry like this. That is definitely a very crucial aspect to highlight.
https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/databases-in-design.html

Brian
Hey,

I appreciate how you brought the topic into your own experiences and made it something more tangible. RElating this to work we've done definitely helped create a better understanding of the topic.

B5 - Databases x Construction

Databases are systems that can store large quantities of information in a singular place, or more formally, a collection of information which is easily accessible and organized, managed and kept up to date. Databases are already utilized in some way, shape, or form in the construction industry, even if they aren’t specifically termed “Databases.” As with any industry or any company, all information must be stored, whether it be past projects, industry contacts, cost data, or even plan templates. This of course was done with physical copies of this data, where large, full size plans were kept and notes were taken for the next designer or engineer to use for reference. However, as technology advances, the way information is stored must develop as well.

The information stored in databases can most easily be organized like a spreadsheet, with rows and columns that have the ability to hold various types and quantities of data, while still being updatable. Each database is useful to and for different people and things, and within a construction company, there can be many applications. For instance, construction companies can have internal databases, where past project information (such as plans, coordination, notes), company information (such as policies, agendas, employee info), and presentation information (such as templates, letterheads, procedures) can be stored. Construction companies will also deal with external databases, where current and future project information, vendor lists, and product specifications can be stored.

Storing data like these in databases is helpful from an organizational standpoint. The user knows what they need and what database to search in. Often, database results can be queried or filtered to make finding the information required even easier. Databases are even more valuable because of the ability to put the database online. External databases can be accessed by anyone at any time, even have multiple users at once, because it is open to the public. Internal company databases may not be open to the public, but are most often than not put on the cloud, that is, internet based data storage. This means that a database does not need to be downloaded onto one’s personal computer or onto a flash drive to be saved or stored. This makes sharing and access either between companies or within a company extremely simple.

Source: https://sitemate.com/us/resources/articles/construction/construction-database/

Responses

Madeline,

With today's technology and the pace at which we are moving, I think it would be really difficult to get anywhere as a design firm without integrating the use of databases. I like how you tied collaboration and databases together, what would the point be if all this stored information could not be shared? Also, your Augmented Reality example is something that makes complete sense, but I would have never thought that the components that go into AR are themselves databases. Goes to show how applicable and essential databases truly are.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b5-walker-elders-databases-in-design.html

Amanda,

From someone who has never heard of Object-oriented databases, you really broke this concept down well. It seems much more complicated than general databases, which at their simplest form are just spreadsheets, but more worthwhile, especially from a saving and sharing standpoint. It makes sense that OODBs aid on the interoperability front.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b5-object-oriented-databases_8.html

Mika,

I have never heard of SQL or NoSQL before, so I appreciate the concise way that you broke the two down. From my understanding, the only benefit to using NoSQL is that it is better at handling large data sizes. Is there ever a time where you would use NoSQL for a basic database, or is it simply more beneficial to stick with SQL because it is easier to learn and apply? It seems like not only is SQL really valuable in data management, but also as a general skill that can be applied to various fields.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b5-mika-awai-sql-in-databases.html

B5 - Databases in Construction Firms

A database is a collection of data organized on a computer in an easily understandable way. We use databases without even realizing it. The construction industry has lots of data that needs organized. So, using a database makes lots of sense.

What kind of data might a construction firm organize? First, they'd probably organize the different jobs they have at any given moment. Then, each job's specifics would need organized, like what materials are to be used, what employees are assigned each job, where each job is located, and more. By putting all of this information into a computer, the data is easily retrievable.

An organized construction firm can take on more projects and thus earn more money. Plus, I've always found that being organized and feeling organized clears my mind of burdens I didn't know it had. I become more productive.

The term database might make organizing data seem like a daunting task, but really, simply organizing things in an Excel spreadsheet is technically a database. Plus, once the database is set up, it becomes easier to quickly add little bits of data to keep the database up to date.

Construction firms can benefit greatly from using databases if they aren't already. It will keep them more organized and allow them to take on more projects. Plus, it could help allocate resources better. Being organized is never a bad thing.

Cory,

I never thought of using databases for design. I've always seen them as an organizational tool for after the design process. Using them for automation makes a lot of sense. This saves time later.

Stephen,

I have never heard of SQL before. I also don't know much about databases. It's neat that there is a programming language that is made specifically for database information retrieval. There is a lot we take for granted when it comes to databases and how they make our lives better and easier, without evening realizing it.

Madeleine,

I have never considered augmented reality as an aspect of databases, let alone for the design phase of a building. Using AR in the design phase would make visualization so much easier for clients. It would stop miscommunications in their tracks. With the rate of technological advances, I'd expect to see AR used frequently in the industry sooner rather than later. This would be a huge advance for an industry that's so behind the curve.

Uses of Databases in Construction Firms - B5 (Week6)

Databases in construction firms can relate to the actual construction projects, the companies involved in the project, the subcontractors, the owners, and all other relevant person involved in the construction phase. The creation of new and easily accessible databases have been created and used throughout a plethora of construction projects, and here is why:

A database can be defined as a collection of information which is stored and organized, managed, edited and updated throughout numerous phases of a projects life. Thinking about the way a database is typically laid out - various rows and columns which can be edited and deleted, similar to a spreadsheet. The spreadsheets can be used to transfer and communicate information to numerous people involved in the construction project. They can be used for work purposed, to communicate safety information, quality of materials, among many other functions.

Construction company owners can delve into any database that is available to them in order to gain something that would be beneficial for their project. It can be about upcoming projects they will be involved in, they can search for subcontractors, find vendors, or just keep track of information that is important to them. A lot of these databases exist on the internet. This way, contractors and subcontractors can come together and form out work that they can both get involved in and potentially work together.

 Being that construction projects are a very collaborative work environment, an efficient way to communicate and transfer information about any aspect of the project is crucial. Many people are involved and work in construction firms. No project is a one-man band. Keeping in mind that email and general construction information systems are widely used as communication tools, their ability to record and manage interface problems and responses is limited. BIM as an information technology can contribute toward improving the efficiency and success of a construction project within thousands of construction firms worldwide.

Comment to Madeleine:

Madeleine,

I agree with your statement that databases are a good use of communication and collaboration. I think that the incorporation of databases could potentially increase productivity in the design phase. This is because like you stated, architects can resolve conflicts rather than wasting time and money.

Comment to Manon:

Manon,

You made an interesting point in your blog post - The use of queries such as DROP and DELETE allows for an efficient way to flow through your database. The use of these features can allow users a faster way to navigate through their spreadsheets. This faster navigation will improve productivity for sure.

Comment to Michael:

Michael,

It is interesting that you pointed out the use database systems has in storing memory. Like you stated, the bigger companies have large amounts of data that needs to efficiently be stored without the risk of that data becoming corrupt. This way, smaller portions of data can be stored throughout numerous devices that way the memory is safe.

B4-Mynaugh

For this week's Blog Post, we are exploring our own individual projects that we are doing for this class. Now the subjects of the subjects could range from anything that will or has been aught for this course and due to the title being Intelligent buildings it'd be something along those lines. For my group, we wanted something more relevant to our field of work, and that is of the construction and, more specifically, how Artificial intelligence will be impacting it. The main course of action we wanted to take when exploring this was that of what are and will be the benefits of integrating AI into construction and, of course, the other side of the coin on what it could hinder. To list some of the benefits of AI, we wanted to delve into more was that of the efficiencies of how robotic labor could replace that of human labor. This in itself could direct our research in different avenues to the moral effects of said replacement to the actual method of how machines would be designed and program to handle these originally human tasks. However, if you manage to read my teammates' post that beyond the physical implementation of AI, we will also explore the implications of the digital impact. This could go from the automation of sorting through information or having programs in place that could react to new engineering obstacles. The paths laid before can vary greatly so within the coming weeks we will endeavor to bring these array of ideas into focus for the presentation of our final project


Comments

Hey Isabel,
Reading over your blog has piqued my interest in regards to how the ever-growing smart home market will have on that of the mechanical aspect of home improvement.  As I am not too familiar with Revit's mechanical portion in measuring cooling loads and the like, do you think that the active sensors in today's technologies are sufficient enough now to make these future changes that you re hinting at? Nonetheless, I look forward to your future presentation.


Andre,

Reviewing your proposed term project has me intrigued, and the possibilities Dynamo has to offer. To state outright, I have zero background on how Dynamo is used and only the vaguest idea of what can result from implementing it in a project. However, since we both are in the sam senior design group, do you think to have this experience perhaps a year before now would've abled you to have good enough grasp of Dynamo that you could've used for our senior design? Just seeing the tasks you are attempting t accomplish seems very useful had we the time to implement it sooner. Nonetheless, seeing the final results of both this project and that of our senior design will be exciting.

Hey Cory,

It seems you have the makings of an interesting project. Having modular designs is definitely a trend that is taking off as of late. One that comes to mind is that of an AEI competition project, I saw that was a retrofit of a hospital, and the team made the decision to have the hospital room be all prefabricated and simply put into place during construction. They had it laid out that all the mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems in these units were easy to install and had quick connections that reduced clutter. Best of luck with your project!

B4: 3D printing

The world is moving fast, and everything is being requested and delivered in a short period of time comparing that to the early decades. In construction sites, the buildings were built by hands then with the help of some equipment, and now we have what called 3D printing. Would this technology get our projects done quicker?

After what our professor showed us and talked about in class, I decided to do a research paper on 3D printing buildings, how long would it take to complete a project? What are the advantages and disadvantages? What are the limitations of construction materials?  What are the challenges?

After doing some research, I found it interesting to narrow the topic and focus on how 3D printing can be environmentally-friendly (sustainability) at low price using local materials like WASP which is an Italian 3D printed sustainable shelters.

One of the advantages that I liked about 3D printing is it could solve the housing crisis. However, it could cause an unemployment crisis. Other challenges aspects would be the construction location (topography) whether the machines can set up there to do the work or not, the weather conditions that are acceptable, how strong is the 3D printed building, and the limitations of building designs including scales.  

Some related sites that are interesting:

https://all3dp.com/2/3d-printing-in-construction-what-are-3d-printed-houses-made-of/

https://www.3dnatives.com/en/3d-printing-construction-310120184/

Comments:

1- Jake,

Your topic hooked me! Maybe because you are interested in Philadelphia’s future which the place we live and we are concerned about its future. In addition, I am from one of the Arabian Gulf countries and mentioning Dubai makes me attracted to what you will write about. Dubai is well-known for its developments and technology in all fields including construction. I’m also planning to make a research about 3D printing and Dubai one of the countries that started using this technique for their projects.

I agree that robotics may help a lot, but what do you think the future challenges are related to IB? What are some risks that robotics will not endure?

Good luck with your project!

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b4-term-paper.html

2- Michael,

When I first read your post, the first thing that came to my mind was eQuest software which I think is similar to your project. I didn’t have any knowledge about Kaggle, but you made me search and read about it. You have a creative idea. If I know how this works, I would have joined you. I liked how you discussed your methodology and what difficulties you are facing. I think your project could be helpful for those you are doing researches on HVAC.

Your projects sound professional, interesting and really detailed. I can’t wait to see you presenting it to the class.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/course-project.html

3- Manon,

We have something in common! My project is similar to your group’s. We both going to do research on 3D printing and sustainability. It would be interesting to know what is your point of view as an engineer on this topic. We would agree on some points but disagree on others which opens up an opportunity to discuss in class with our classmates.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b-4-sustainable-design-through-additive.html