Showing posts with label Group E. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Group E. Show all posts

Thursday, March 12, 2020

B6

This course was very informative and worthwhile. I learned a lot about building technology and how the AEC industry is changing with technological advances. Moving forward, the insight and knowledge I gained from this class will be vastly useful in my professional life and development. Though I am a structural concentration, and structural engineers are usually hesitant to change (due to large liability), change is still inevitable. It is encouraging to see all the ways the job could improve, like better interoperability between AutoCAD and Revit.

I learned a lot that I definitely wouldn't have otherwise learned. I had no clue artificial intelligence applied to the AEC industry. I didn't realize that robots were already becoming players in the industry and weren't just science-fiction/goals for the future. I barely knew anything about databases, but now I can see they're incredibly important to the field and industry.

One thing I will almost certainly use in my professional life is Dynamo. I had no idea it existed, but it is incredibly useful. It's simple to use too, which further encourages me to learn more about it. I'll probably also use Access, too. I've always been a huge fan of Excel, and Access gives me more flexibility in terms of databases, which I have used Excel for before.

I really enjoyed the structure of this course. The assignments were helpful but not overwhelming. I found the blog posts incredibly beneficial. The term project was also really neat as it gave me a chance to dive into something I was interested in but wouldn't have otherwise studied. In my case, that was cobots. I now have more than a surface level knowledge of the benefits they can bring to the AEC industry.

I took this course as an elective, and I am so, so glad I did. I did not learn anything in this class that was "fluff" or irrelevant to me. Databases, sensors, interoperability, AI, robotics, it all applies to me as a young engineer to be. I absolutely recommend this class to anyone in the CAEE department, and possibly others.

Hi Varsha,

I'm glad we were able to learn more about cobots together. It was great learning about a new technology with you and Ina. I hope to see cobots more readily used in the industry sooner rather than later. I completely agree that we have to be prepared for change. It's uncomfortable yet completely unavoidable. I think your idea of making this type of class more common is a great one.

Hi Andre,

I think it's really neat that you as an electrical engineering major took this architectural engineering class. That to me shows how important it is for all branches of engineering to work together in the workplace. I like how you looped this class back to Drexel's one focus of career development. You're absolutely right that this class prepared us for industry. Of course our other more theoretical classes are important, but this class helped me think about AFTER graduation more, and not as just a stepping stone to get to graduation.

Hi Spencer,

I really enjoyed your project and presentation. Dynamo is a vastly useful tool, and it was neat that you took a good portion of the term to dive into it more for not only your own edification, but the rest of the class as well since you presented. I completely agree that this class gave us knowledge that will help us stay ahead of the technological curve. You're completely right that this course gave us resources to, as you put it, keep a finger on the pulse of the industry. This is a very insightful perspective that I hadn't really considered, so thank you.

B6 - Final Blog Post

Reflecting on this course I learned a lot about the technology side of the AEC industry and how I might be able to combine my degree in electrical engineering and my knowledge of coding with my passion for the industry. The handful of presentations from industry professionals demonstrating real life applications of how what we learn in class can be used professionally helped tremendously. I got to different avenues in the industry I could explore outside of the ones I'd bee exposed to on my various co-ops. One of the key aspects of Drexel University as an institution is career development and preparedness and not only did this class help prepare me for a job in the industry but it also highlighted new interests and specialties in the industry.

I enjoyed the assignments given over the course of the class and how modular they were. This allowed students of different levels and experience with these technologies to walk away learning something. It made it so that no assignment was unnecessarily easy and none of them were too difficult to complete. I got to use my Revit knowledge to explore Dynamo deeper which is a tool used my one of my coworkers that I've always wanted to explore further but never had the time to until this course. I also thought the database assignment was incredibly helpful because it was a tool I've never had any kind of exposure to previously but quickly realized the power in it. Microsoft access could be used in a host of applications for management and organization.

These skills are incredibly important considering the future of the industry and the likely increase in Intelligent Building in the industry and I'm glad I got an introduction to them prior to graduating college.


Stephen Preitt
Hi Stephen,

I think it was a great idea to highlight the way that this course can apply to anyone in this industry and not just those that want to focus on BIM or the technology heavy side of the industry. These skills and ideas are important for everyone in the industry. They get a better understanding of the technology that provides the backbone for the industry in the modern world.

Michael Sciarra
Hi Michael,

I very much agreed that the discussions and flow of the class were very helpful in learning the content. Discussions and even blog possts help provide  multiple perspectives and ideas on the same topic. It also helps to see everybody elses backgrounds and interests.

Liam Ossenfort
Liam,

I liked that you touched on the summarization aspect of the final project and the ability to focus more intently on our interests. I think this aspect of the project allowed us to do some self-teaching and self-exploration in a field that we find to be most beneficial to our professional careers.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Bell Blog 6


This course has opened my eyes to many thing that I have not previously encountered at Drexel or in the workplace. When I go to work it is often presented to me that no one wants to change the way things have been operated for the past thirty years. Because I work in an industry that specializes on roads and bridges, change is very frightening to most. There is currently a push within the company to use 3D design but it doesn’t have as much traction as one would hope. This class has shown me what the future can hold if effort is applied. I am hoping that my company will adopt 3D design and that I will be using it in the future. Another important thing that I learned was the commitment that construction workers have on creating buildings. It is very difficult to build anything and the contractor needs to make everything fit in the increasingly more complicated world that we live in. Also, I had never thought about sensors in the way that I think of them now and how if properly maintained, they can completely regulate all the things that function in a building. The database was another interesting tool that I am not sure how I can implement in my life but I do enjoy the ability to be able to make a database if I ever needed to. Overall this class was an enlightening experience starting with the innovative ways that construction is being carried out and interestingly enough I am currently doing graduate research with people who are 3D printing concrete. The usage of drones and robots were all eye opening to me but sadly I am a skeptic and believe that if everyone could sit around in their pajamas all day they would. Also, the latest presenter who explained the difficulty of keeping track of sensors and systems in large buildings with reference to building managers made good points about the willingness of people to change or even do things correctly. But although I am a hasty critic I think that most of the things shown in the class will be utilized in the future but not quickly. I believe that over time, like it will be more and more common to use only 3D design and it will be more and more common to 3D print concrete and use robots and databases until everyone will be doing it. The future will eventually get here and the upheaval is starting.


Reece,
I hope you have a meaningful time at your next co-op and learn more about additive manufacturing of concrete. I am also working on concrete for my masters research studies and am optimistic that the future will use concrete completely differently than it does currently. I also think that database usage is very important in society, I was unaware how many databases are necessary to run the world and it is hundreds of thousands, and the way to make them was foreign to me until this class

Douha,
I completely understand what you are saying because I have primarily used autocad and civil 3d without ever using revit. I was surprised how easy and clean it was. Many people in my office also use revit for architecture but because I am civil engineering, I barely get to use it. Hopefully I will be able to utilize my skills and be incorporated in multiple different fields.

Madeleine,
I agree with you when you say that you feel behind because I had also never learned about the topics covered in this class. Another thing is that I have close to no affiliation with building systems, this topic came up in my senior design in which I should have implemented more systems. It’s sufficient to say that I almost never think about the architectural side of engineering which appears to be the opposite problem that you have.

Tuesday, February 11, 2020

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.


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.

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.


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.





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.

Monday, February 10, 2020

B5 - Databases in Construction Firms

Databases are widely used in the construction industry by firms for a variety of reasons. The basic definition of a database is a collection of relevant information that is organised and easily manageable and accessible. For a construction firm, this can take several forms such as collections of work done on previous projects, spreadsheets of specifications and vendors, information on subcontractors, and information on upcoming projects in the future. The main reasons for maintaining these databases and using up space to retain so much information is for firms to keep track of specific information on  what is most important to them. A typical firm can be working on as many as 50 projects at a time between all of its designers, engineers and architects. This large inflow of work could mean that the best results are achieved when engineers remain productive. Databases are one important aspect that can support their productivity. By maintaining useful project information, it can be referred to at any time saving the engineers valuable time and money.

Databases are not just useful for productivity. As more databases are being stored on the internet, the data is made accessible to several groups of people including project contractors and subcontractors who can come together to gain mutual benefit from the shared information. This can help minimize collaboration errors and further save materials and money spent on fixing coordination mistakes.

In general, databases have been an integral data-management resource for any firm consisting of multiple employees. Old-school databases like record keeping notebooks move and change slowly but are still relevant for new construction firms. A new employee or intern can refer to the employee database to contact the appropriate person in the office from whom to get advice or answers to questions. Doing so can help the new person develop their professional soft skills while forging connections. In this way, project specific databases and firm specific databases are different but serve similar purposes.

Advances in technology have enabled better configuration and retention of databases that immensely support projects within the scope of a construction firm. With BIM becoming a way to store product information and specs of equipment used in a building setting, it functions as a long-term database that the owners, engineers, and contractors (including everyone in between) can refer to as long as the building stands.

Sources: Hodgson, Lance, et al. “Construction Database: Here's the Databases You Need to Care About.” Sitemate, 26 June 2019, sitemate.com/us/resources/articles/construction/construction-database/. Retrieved: February 10, 2020 (link)

Comments:

Reece's post: (Link to post)


Reece,

I agree with all your points. I had also commented in my post that databases provide "an efficient way to communicate and transfer information" which is really important in the setting of construction firm. Not only does it enable the sharing of ideas across to different people, it also helps to save time by having all the necessary info on hand when needed. I feel that when using programs like Revit it is easy to forget that we're constantly benefiting from its structured database, when it is that capability that makes it such a valuable tool.

Jake's post: (Link to post)

Jake,

You brought up some really interesting and thought-provoking points. Although the beginning of any design/construction process has always been sitting down at the drawing board to generate ideas, the evolution of BIM and its database capabilities have revolutionized that process. Although we still begin at the same principle, we now have the option to make a thorough virtual model with every tiny detail input in it - thereby creating the whole building first virtually, and only then proceeding to physically build it. When weighed against the safety and efficiency guaranteed by the model, the hours spent making the virtual building are worth it.

Brian's post: (Link to post)

Brian,

You have very concisely explained what SQL means and how it is used. Although databases are often seen as a valuable resource, it can definitely become difficult to navigate some really huge ones that have a lot of information on them. So, I see why it is important to streamline the process of referring to them and using SQL to essentially speak to the database to extract only the  information that is needed.

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.

Thursday, February 6, 2020

Bell-Blog 5 Database usage in construction firms


Construction can use databases with as much efficacy as any field and because construction is such an outdated field, it can be highly beneficial. The most important thing that construction firms can use databases for is item indexing. It is much easier to look up items and all of their specifications than going through the code and finding the item you’re looking for. This could easily streamline the processes of construction managers because they would be able have access to the entire array of items and parts without having to manually find them. The next thing that is very valuable is the ability to put plans on the internet. This is just about the most important thing that has ever happened in the engineering world behind autocad because the construction managers and workers don’t need hundreds of papers. They can also write on all these papers, all of this is backed up in databases where the information is stored. This can then be transferred to the client. The client can use the databases for their building in the future because the building manager is supposed to fix everything as it breaks over time. Instead of having complicated drawings that often get lost or damaged, the owner could instead find all of the things they need in a database. These all prove very useful but there is another reason that construction companies can use databases to increase productivity that is harder to exemplify. Databases can store large amounts of data, a potential source could be past jobs. The speed at which past jobs have happened or perhaps past problems could be tracked. This sort of idea could be sculpted to the desire of the construction company, they could use it to calculate bid prices for certain types of projects or circumvent problems that are likely to occur. Although this strays more towards the topic of deep learning where a refined program can find trends that the average human can’t, this burgeoning industry revolution could make construction much more efficient and manageable. By manageable, I mean able to be managed but also predictable, with more possible storage space, more pictures of daily activity could be taken, this was mentioned by a few guest speakers. Also, the workplace would become safer because hazards could be detected faster and hopefully mitigated. Essentially, the two most costly aspects of construction have been covered by implementing databases, identification of unforeseen problems and worker safety, that is why I personally believe that databases and large amounts of new technology will be used in the construction field in the near future.

Michael,
I never thought about buying goods using a neural network, this is a very intuitive idea that could be used in many different industries as well as construction. But then it the question of the accuracy of the neural network because people have tried to predict the stock market but as far as I know, none have succeeded. It is easier to track simple prices over time but, I was just thinking ahead. Also, the majority of the thing you wrote about were similar to ideas I had and I fully support you.
Jake,
Interesting that you directly related databases to BIM, and I do believe that it is true that the more information about a building, the bigger the database, and the more accurate the project model would be. However, hopefully most if not all design will become cloud based very soon so that there will not need to be a server database room in every office and instead in can be put into the cloud. Finally, I believe there are more ways databases impact construction field other than just BIM.
Amanda,
What a great idea, I am hoping that this practice could come into the field soon but this technology could just be sequestered to mechanical engineering. I'm not saying that it would be difficult to transfer to civil and architectural but at this very moment, few people in the field can code databases. Although I do see this type of OODB coming into reality very soon.

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

B4 - Generative Design

I will be working with Dane Bell on a paper about generative design. We touched on generative design a bit in class, but mostly in the guest lecture from last week from Kayleigh Houde. Generative design is similar to parametric design, with which we are more familiar with, that is assigning parameters to the design so that the computer can fill in the design within the constraints. This is different from computational design or traditional design, where every component is designed individually. In traditional design, the user must take it upon themselves to think of various design options; they definitely cannot come up with ALL the options. Generative design utilizes algorithms, where a computer can definitively come up with all the designs that fit the constraints or parameters applied, often including a cost parameter as well.

Generative design can be applied to many fields and industries, but we will be focusing on mechanical engineering--that is, mechanics, manufacturing, 3D printing-- and architecture--that is, building design, construction, intelligent buildings. Generative design and efficiency go hand-in-hand. Since the computer can determine which are the best models that fit our constraints, there is less time needed to revise and revisit options. Coupled with 3D printing, complex models can be developed on a small scale. Generative design also has the opportunity to revolutionize the architecture and construction industry. As design is refined through parametric/generative methods, the door is opened to new ideas never thought of before. On the microscale, objects like furniture can be optimized with generative design to determine the best way to incorporate size, shape, and cost of material into a singular design. On the macroscale, whole office buildings can be optimized to determine the best locations for desks, meeting spaces, and entrances to allow for the best, most natural layout of the place. Of course, this shouldn’t take away the creativity of the designer. If the designer realizes that the most optimal design that the computer has chosen does not fit the intended use or function of the object or space, design expertise must still be applied. The hope is that generative design can be used as a tool to aid and inspire new designs and ways of approaching problems.


Respones:

Spencer, 
I like that your topic directly relates to your field of interest. It makes what you are doing that much more worthwhile. From someone who knew very little about BIM, the clash detection feature is something that I think is fascinating. Interoperability is crucial to efficiency, and moving various models from one platform to the next is a waste of effort sometimes. I hope you are able to figure out a good way to make the transition more seamless, or at the very least, learn some things along the way!


Abigail,

Robots in the construction industry in the capacity you have described is something I have never thought of before. Having actual robots construct actual buildings seems tricky. Like Spencer said above, the code must be flawless, or else something could go very wrong. I think that there would still really need to be a certain level of human interaction with the robot builders since as of right now, humans with proper experience and training are the only ones that would know if something is being done incorrectly, even though blueprints or plans may say otherwise. However, I guess with technological advances and AI, robots are learning, not just being told what to do. 

Isabel,

I believe that sensors and building management systems are key to an intelligent building. Intelligent buildings are not just about how the structure is built, but how it interacts with the world around it and satisfies the users' needs as well. If sensors can tell when to increase/decrease the temperature based on (1) what the user wants, (2) what temperature already exists within the structure, (3) the outside environment (natural heat from the sun or cooling from the shade), and potentially even (4) costs of energy, that would truly be an intelligent building. I am excited to see what you come up with!

B4

Originally, Ina, Varsha, and I were going to write a paper on the evolution of construction technology. We would’ve researched historic methods, current methods, and made predictions of future methods. However, we soon realized this would be way too much information to squeeze into a paper. So, we narrowed our focus considerably. Now, our topic is simply robotics in construction. This topic interests everyone in our group for different reasons. I am a BS/MS student in structures. I am interested in how robots can be used to construct buildings. Would robots allow us to construct new connection types? Or would they reduce labor costs so significantly that most buildings become sustainable? It would be interesting to see if robots that built a building could also help monitor the building afterwards, since they’d be more familiar so to speak. 

Buildings that are built without 100% human labor are bound to fall into the category of an intelligent building. Thus, robots in construction directly relates to BIM and intelligent buildings. 
One challenge will be making an educated guess as to the role robots in construction will play in the future. The trend indicates that robots will become increasingly popular, but trends aren’t always reliable.  

Another angle to investigate would be the costs associated with using robotics in the construction industry. Are the costs associated with robotics too high to offset the costs of human labor?Logistically, getting a robot to a site might be tricky. This could increase the costs. What kind of upkeep and maintenance would the robots require? Do they have a long enough life that investment in them is worth it?  

Hopefully over the course of writing this paper, we will gain a better understanding on the pros and cons of robotics, as well as learn more about the currently level of usage in the industry.  


I think your research is very relevant to the issues engineers face when designing buildings. The way buildings are built and designed currently just isn't sustainable. Hopefully by researching and discovering uncommon ways to design sustainable buildings, new buildings will be less detrimental to the environment.


Modular construction seems like a very cost and time effective method of construction. It will be interesting to see what the downsides are, and if they are significant. I am curious if modular construction will become more or less popular over time. I suspect it will depend on how much human labor will be needed for the project.


It will be interesting to see how the increased usage of Smart Home technology will impact system design. Right now, they're an afterthought by homeowners who desire them. Maybe in the near future, homes will be designed with the usage of Smart Home technology in mind.








Monday, February 3, 2020

Code Compliant Automation Through Dynamo

For my term project, I am planning on automating a handful of tasks that will satisfy basic code compliance from an Electrical Engineering perspective as well as handle a few tasks that would be otherwise tedious. The code compliance automation tasks include the following:

  • Adding fire alarm strobes to rooms with an occupancy of 2 or greater, and a certain area
  • Adding fire alarm speaker strobes to rooms with an occupancy of 2 or greater, and a certain area
  • Spacing ceiling mounted speaker strobes through common areas and corridors meeting code required spacing and visibility
  • Making sure all outlets within a 3' radius of sinks are GFCI type
  • Laying out conference room receptacle layouts to comply to new NEC code requirements
These tasks will be the primary focus of the project. I would also like to automate the following convenience tasks:
  • Adding room tags in a newly created view
  • Tag receptacles and lights with circuit tags
  • Add plus designation to all receptacles modelled above the standard mounting height of 1'6"
  • Space Wireless Access Points
  • Layout a typical office layout
I will be creating a one floor basic office model with a handful of offices, open office area, cafe, conference room, corridors, and restrooms. I will then develop the Dynamo script that will handle these routines. It's possible that I will need to split these tasks into two or three separate scripts in order to avoid the Dynamo graph from becoming too cluttered. This will help keep the Dynamo script from crashing which would crash the Revit file. For practical purposes, this/these script(s) need to work smoothly so that they could, in theory, be used on larger projects at design firms. 

I plan on starting by sitting down and putting together pseudo code for each task that will better help me map out and execute the development of the code. Once the pseudo code is developed I can then translate it to actual Dynamo code. I will be documenting and logging my progress as I go including how long it takes me to complete certain tasks as well as including my pseudo code and plans in my report.


https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b4-mika-awai-project-description.html
Hey Mika,

I think this is a very interesting project design given the climate in the industry and the push to make buildings more sustainable, doing an analysis of the available software would prove to be very beneficial. Especially if it would make designing to LEED that much easier.

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

I'm very interested to see where this project goes and what the finished product looks like. I think that this model could be incredibly beneficial not only from an owner's viewpoint but also from a design viewpoint. This would greatly affect the materials chosen for the building envelope, which mechanical systems are chosen, and where energy consumption can be improved.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/bell-blog-4-project-information.html
Hey Dane,

I was also very interested in this topic and considered looking into it as well. The process seems geared more towards architectural design in that it iterates through different forms, shapes and materials easily, but I wonder how this could be applied to iterating through envelope designs and other engineering elements of building design. I really enjoy the thought of being able to expand and increase the speed of design option development with this process. I'm looking forward to seeing where this project goes. 

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Group E - Week 4 Discussion

Overall, our group decided that AutoCAD and Sketchup are helpful in producing rough drafts, then ultimately using them as references to create a more comprehensive, polished final product in Revit. That's not to say that this is Revit's only use, though. 3D visualization is vastly helpful. Minute details, such structural member connections, are easier to view in 3D in Revit than in 2D in AutoCAD. Revit makes section cuts easier once the geometry is in place. In summary, Revit combines many of the best features of other drafting programs into a comprehensive 3D modeling software.

Revit vs. The World


Revit, in most firms in the country, has become the go to industry standard for construction projects nowadays. In my own professional career I have found myself using it much more often than any other drafting software I’ve had access to. This also is partially due to my specific field. If my field was architecture I might use programs such as Sketchup much more often, but from an electrical engineering drafting perspective Revit is the leading standard. Second to this however, is AutoCAD. Both software is made by Autodesk but while AutoCAD does have 3D design capabilities, Revit is geared more for 3D design whereas Autodesk is geared more for 2D design; specifically in the ACE industry. With both being created by Autodesk, there is a lot of integration between the two software which has provided a lot of people a smooth transition from a CAD workflow to a BIM workflow. Instead of forcing everyone to jump over to Revit overnight, the software includes a lot of great features to link in CAD files for adding things like drawing details that the engineer has used for decades that they don’t want to update and things of the like.
In my experience, I’ve primarily used this integration between the two to import lighting fixture schedules, typically from lighting designers, into Revit projects. A lot of the time, fixture schedules are done in Excel primarily for ease of use purposes and then linked into a CAD file. This avoids having to use AutoCADs horrible table creating process and allows for a cleaner more efficient workflow. And smaller firms, like a lot of lighting design firms are still using AutoCAD to do a lot of their work. Sometimes linking the two can be an aggravating process if not setup or done correctly.
Revit also allows for you to import files from Sketchup, however this is typically done differently than how AutoCAD files are imported. As I mentioned, CAD is primarily 2D related where as Sketchup is a 3D software similar to Revit. Because of this, the two can interface very differently. Especially considering that they were not both made by Autodesk. A lot of people will you Sketchup to assist in family creation due to its ease of use in creating 3D objects compared to Revit. At least in my opinion. But what is also very common is architects using sketchup to do their massing and then exporting it to Revit to assist in the modeling process.
There are a handful of other drafting software like Civil 3D and ArchiCAD that can probably interact with Revit, but I have no experience in this process, just the ones listed above.

Liam Ossenfort
Hey Liam,
I enjoyed reading your post because one of the things I always found super interesting about Revit was its use of parameters and how the software organizes them. They allow for a lot of control in different ways between changing something that is an instance parameter versus something that is a type parameter. And getting a better understanding between the two has helped me immensely in my work flow.

Brian Mynaugh
Hey Brian,

I thought your post was interesting because I agree that this is the most difficult part of what the future has in store for Revit/BIM. I've noticed in the company I work at which is rather large in comparison, is that we even have people refusing to change their workflow and adapt to the new programs simply because they don't want to have to relearn the process. And those that have HAD to adapt either complain constantly or only use it as a 2D drafting software which is not at all what it was made for.
Michael Manley
Hey Michael,
I enjoyed reading this post because it points out some of the amazing uses of BIM in the future. This technology offers a wide range of advantages for how we do work in this industry and it will hopedully make the process much easier and cooled with a lot of the VR simulation based technology.

B3 - Revit x AutoCAD

Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) is a concept that emerged in the 1960s. The 2D design software did away with manual drafting and made making calculations, visualizing design and working a lot faster and easier. CAD was first only utilized by those who knew how to program computers, so hand calculations and designs were still completed during the transition period, but by the 1990s, most companies were implementing CAD and engineers were tasked with learning and using it. AutoCAD and Revit are two major platforms for computer aided drafting and are very similar programs, though often used in different ways.

AutoCAD, under AutoDesk, has been around for a while. It was first demonstrated and released in 1982 and was the first CAD program to run as a desktop app on microcomputers that did not require the use of mainframe computers to run. Since AutoCAD was one of the first, it remains a known name in the industry. I was taught AutoCAD my freshman year at Drexel and used it a lot during my first co-op. Certain companies in the transportation industry require the use of one CAD software over another, so we were required to use AutoCAD for the projects we were working on, even though the versions had kinks.

Revit was developed in 2000 and was actually acquired by AutoDesk, the same company that runs AutoCAD, in 2002. It is different from AutoCAD’s 2D interface because Revit is made for 3D modeling.  Additionally, Revit has the capability to track information throughout the structures’ life cycles and is a great companion to BIM software. My industry does not utilize Revit as much, as far as I know. Highway and roadway design work is mostly done in 2D with cross sections that would show a third direction. Revit and programs like it seems to be integral to the architecture industry.

Many companies and engineers themselves often vouch for AutoCAD over other programs because it is easier to continue using something that you have always been working with, especially if there is nothing inherently wrong or bad about using it. I had coworkers who told me they did not want to learn a newer version of AutoCAD, and refused to work with it until they had to. Although I have never used Revit in the industry for a complete project, using it to complete my assignment for this class proved Revit to be simple, user-friendly, and intuitive. I immediately felt comfortable with using the program. If engineers were simply more open to embracing change, better programs can be utilized, especially Revit and its connectability to BIM.


Comments:

Michael,
You are totally right to bring up lack of continuity in the industry for programs like these. The fact that there is no industry standard makes it so complicated to share files, plans, and develop models across the USA or even in one's state. It is easier for companies to keep doing what they have been doing for years and say "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," but like you said, the benefits of converting to program like Revit or BIM outweigh the desire to remain using the same program.
https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-current-problems-with-revitbim.html

Stephen,
I remember having issues in AutoCAD where the model would take several minutes to load and will often be an un-updated file. We also had to run files through a converter sometimes if the format was from an older version of AutoCAD. Synchronization issues are truly annoying and cost time and money to fix. If there was a way to make the files "smarter," such as saving automatically after a certain period of time or being able to match versions with another, it would be a  lifesaver.
https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b3-current-issues-with-bim-stephen.html

Michael,
I tend to forget that virtual reality can be used in a productive sense, rather than just in gaming. The ability to view a 3D model right before your eyes is revolutionary. Think of how that would change teaching: you could see how a beam deflects under loads and how that would look in the bigger picture, you could walk through a building to check if everything looks okay before even thinking of construction. I love the idea of making changes in real time through VR, it would save a lot of time to do so.
https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/future-of-bim.html




B3

Revit and AutoCAD are both drafting programs used by architects and engineers alike. However, their uses do vary. 

AutoCAD is a drafting program often used by architects. It is vastly useful for creating floor plans, sections, and elevations. However, it is best used for 2D renderings. While AutoCAD can be used for 3D renderings, it is slow and not the best use of the program. Engineering firms do still use AutoCAD. My second co-op was a residential structural engineering co-op, and all of our drawing were created in AutoCAD, and we were still creating new details in the program too. 

Revit is a 3D modeling program. It is useful for creating floor plans, sections and elevations. Revit can create sections automatically from a 3D rendering, as opposed to AutoCAD. In AutoCAD, the sections and elevations need to be hand drafted. I find that MEP engineering firms are beginning to lean more towards Revit. It is good for visualizing ductwork, for example. 

In my opinion, Revit combines the best portions of other drafting programs. Sketchup is useful for elevations. AutoCAD is useful for floor plans. Revit has a lot of powerful tools. It keeps tracking of added components, like doors, and can automatically create a door schedule. It makes sections very easy. It also helps visualize the 3D components of a building well, such as structural connections.  
Revit is not without flaw though. I find it has a steep learning curve, even for people who are technologically savvy. Terminology, such as families, can be confusing. Figuring out how to draw building aspects, like rooves, can also be confusing as it is not always like AutoCAD. However, learning Revit is worthwhile. It is nice to develop floor plans in AutoCAD then transition over to Revit to get a feel for the layout. Revit allows multiple engineering disciplines to come together on one model. Multiple people can work on the same file. Different layers can be turned on and off instead of creating entirely new drawings.  

Overall, Revit is a nice complement to the drafting programs already available to architects and engineers. I do not believe it should serve as a replacement, as other programs do provide functionality that Revit doesn’t. Sketchup is quick and simple. It allows a building to be placed anywhere in the world easily for rendering purposes. AutoCAD’s learning curve is not as steep and is useful for creating floor plans. Maybe one day the line between AutoCAD, Sketchup, and Revit will blur, but until then, Revit is a nice new addition to drafting programs. 

Jake: I agree that BIM is a huge time saver because of its parametric components. It's nice being able to widen the floor in the 2D view, and the 3D view automatically adjusts. This reduces the risk of an error being overlooked until the construction phase. 

Regarding file sharing, I have actually found it's not as advantageous as theorized. Different firms have different software versions. Generally speaking, newer files cannot be opened in older versions. However, if all firms use similar versions, it does work well. 

Michael: Everything you said about transitioning from CAD to BIM makes a lot of sense. It is definitely an expensive transition and sometimes not worth it to small companies, like you said. I’ve experienced smaller companies using older versions of AutoCAD for as long as possible, since upgrading every employee is expensive. This then creates file sharing issues when clients use 2020 and a firm used 2017. It’ll take a while before BIM becomes an industry standard, though I believe it is the way to go.  

Michael: The new uses for virtual reality you mentioned are fascinating. It would be incredible to see a complete building design in real life and walk through it. It would help identify issues with the design as well as aesthetically non-pleasing aspects of the design. This would revolutionize the industry. It would leave no room for guesswork or last-minute decisions, as everything could be visualized up front. I absolutely hope this becomes part of our field within our lifetimes. Of course, with everything, new problems would be created, but this solves a lot of issues, so it’s worth it.