B6 - Stephen Pettit - Final Blog

This course was very useful for anyone that is focused on pursuing a career in the building industry. This class introduced topics on BIM, AI, Robotics, Sensors, Databases, Interoperability, Networking, and other technological advances. I am currently an Architectural Engineering student pursing building concentration, primarily HVAC. I thought the most interesting aspects of the class was BIM, the introduction to virtual reality, and the use of databases. The dynamo project and database project were very interesting to me, and I enjoyed completing those projects. I often work on Revit a lot at co-op, so it was very helpful to get more experience with it. Learning dynamo was easily my favorite part of the class. When I get the time, I want to learn more in depth how to use dynamo with my Revit projects. Throughout my career, my company and I can both benefit tremendously if I could work more efficiently with Revit projects due to the experience with dynamo.

The database assignment was very helpful for two reasons. The first reason is because it introduced me to variety of different sensors. I enjoyed the fact that I was able to gain more knowledge in engineering instead of generic examples that would be used in the database. The second reason is because I got to learn Microsoft Access. When I become an engineer, I may be able to utilize Access to organize different projects or different aspects of projects.

I think that Intelligent Buildings is going to increase throughout the world, and the building industry is going to thrive from it. It is important to get a sense of this now, because the world is quickly advancing their technology. These elements mentioned above are very important in improving efficiency, sustainability, and cost which essentially is our definition of an intelligent building. I recommend this class to any student that wants to learn more about how technology will affect their careers. This class had multiple different concentrations which shows the variety of careers that Intelligent buildings affect. Like mentioned earlier, this class also gives an introduction to softwares that will be useful to be familiar with in the future careers.

Spencer,

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/03/b6-final-reflections.html

I like your point on how Professor Mitchell gave us small picture solutions to solve big picture solutions. I undervalued that aspect, and realize that smaller solutions really are crucial to solving problems. For example, if there is a large commercial project, there are smaller breakdowns that connect to each other that solves the big picture. I also enjoyed the guest lectures. Each guest lecture gave us true experiences with the intelligent buildings. This gave me a sense of realism on how fast technology is affecting our industry.

Brian,

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/03/reflecting-on-wisdom-gained-from-this.html

I also enjoyed learning more about Revit, and some of its capabilities that I have not experienced before. Revit is a major component in the building industry, and we are definitely going to be using Revit more frequently in the future. The articles were time consuming but they allowed us learn more about useful aspects of the building industry. It keeps us updated on the current problems of the industry and the future of the industry.

Varsha,

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/03/b6-reflection.html

I found your point on the state of the industry is just as important as theoretical science very important. I think that it is very important to be aware of what is going to happen with your industry. Being aware leads to seeking more knowledge, instead of learning something with the uncertainty of how it is going to be applied. This class showed how aspects of the industry will be utilized in my career.

Stephen Pettit - B5 - What is SQL?

What is SQL?

SQL is a computer programming language that is connected to informational databases. SQL stands for Structured Query Language. A database is a tool that basically stores any kind of information you input.[3] SQL extracts and organizes information that is listed inside a database. SQL is one of the most popular coding softwares that competes with Java, C++,  Python. SQL is able to handle a tremendous amount of information[2] It can control millions of data in rows and columns which is very helpful.[2] Some companies are huge, and have databases with what it seems to be infinite amount of information. SQL is very useful in extracting specific information. There is also database management systems that has SQL built into the software. MySQL is one of the most popular engines that uses SQL. MySQL is "generally used on web servers" which makes it a very popular option.

Why is SQL important?

SQL is one of the most desired coding programs from companies. It is a very strong skill to possess, because of how many companies utilize databases.[1] In general though, you are able to find specific data very quickly rather to spending hours, days, months, even years trying to find data. SQL doesn't limit to extracting data, but also allows the user to modify the data, and the combine data from other sources as well.[4] It is also very easy to find a data based job, if you are proficient with SQL. Apparently it is very easy to learn too, because it does not require nearly as much code as other programs. One unique feature that I found is that it can be used on smart phones in addition to laptops, and PCs.[5]           

Work Cited
[1] https://tableplus.com/blog/2018/08/why-sql-is-the-most-important-skill-to-learn.html
[2] https://codingsight.com/structured-query-language-importance-of-learning-sql/
[3] https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5804-what-is-sql.html
[4] https://blog.stoneriverelearning.com/6-reasons-why-you-should-learn-sql/
[5] https://www.javatpoint.com/dbms-advantage-of-sql

Comments

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/a-database-in-simple-terms-is.html

Pritesh,

I am not too familiar with databases, but my understanding is that most types of databases are similar to each other. And that the main difference between other databases is how the data is interpreted. Object database seem to be able to paint a better picture for the user. Also, when the database gets more intense, object databases would probably break down the situation more clearly. It would show how sub categories are connected with each other.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/design-offices.html

Jake,

I found your post very interesting because I currently work for a MEP form for the mechanical department, and I design ductwork/piping on Revit. Databases will help me in the future when I get more involved in the engineering aspects. Dynamo is a perfect example on how it can extract information from the BIM server Revit to minimize time spent on digging information. For this assignment, I research SQL which is a coding program that is used on databases. The SQL allows you to organize the data in large databases like you described.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/b5-relational-database.html

Douha,

I found your post very interesting, and thought you did a great job explaining in more depth about a relational database. The image made it more clear as well. Another interesting thing you brought up is the registration process at Drexel. Never realized that was considered a database. Also after researching SQL it makes more sense how it can be used to extract data from a relational database. All of the information in the tables can be extracted and modified from SQL, and this cleared it up for me.

B4 - Stephen Pettit - Project - Revit Families

For the term project, I will be designing two Revit families of mechanical equipment. I have decided to design an automatic pump packaged unit, and a rooftop unit. The equipment chosen has many components, and would give me good experience with developing Revit families. I have chosen this project because I know this exercise will benefit me in my career. At my co-op company, they design their own Revit families to their standards. I have not had experience in that part of Revit, and I believe that this project would strengthen my Revit skills. Revit is used frequently at work, and I want to be able to be proficient enough that I stick out at my company. Revit is starting to get more popular at my company, and there is a handful of people that are proficient with it. I want to be able to expand my skills to make myself more versatile in my career.

I chose the pump package unit and the RTU because I am somewhat familiar with them. I often run into those equipment throughout my projects. My goal is to create detailed enough Revit families that have adjustable parameters that suits different needs. Another one of my goals is to learn more about the equipment in detail, and the equipment operates. In addition to the Revit families, I will create a general building, and insert the equipment inside the building.

Comments:
https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/02/cory-christopher-modular-construction.html
Cory,

Modular building construction is a great idea. The construction industry is getting more involved with prefabricated elements. I definitely think you should talk about how they would transport elements such as a whole room or whatever aspect you touch on. Transportation is important in my opinion, and that is why I think that robotics and construction is starting to become a building option.

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

I really like your project idea. I have no experience with Kaggle, but I like the idea of creating a model that will determine future outcomes based off past outcomes. I am excited to see how your project turns out because it something that is very important in the building industry. Characteristics such as loads, temperatures, and other weather measurements are crucial for project accuracy. I agree as well with your statement with how building owners will have a better idea with energy consumption on renovation projects.

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

I find this topic very interesting. This topic intrigued me because I used to have family that lived in Dubai, and I am aware that they are great in the building industry. I am excited to see how far Philadelphia is from the advancements of Dubai, and how both areas can improve in their current advances. It might be a good idea to consider the current issues with what both areas are dealing with, and how they are planning to overcome those issues. Also, I am interested to see what kind of job openings will be available in those areas in the future of robotics, drones, etc.

B3 - Current Issues with BIM - Stephen Pettit

BIM is a very useful tool, but there are a few drawbacks with it in the industry. One issue is that not everyone is proficient with BIM or even familiar with it. This causes issues with what direction of modeling the owner and his clients want to go with. Everyone needs to be on the same page with BIM because although it can save a lot of money, it can cost a lot of money as well if it is not used properly. If a company does not have the software, or the skilled workers to do the job, it will cost a lot more money. A lot of times, they will have "to hire a BIM manager" which would increase the budgets. For the company I work for now, not everyone in the company is familiar with Revit. There is about 5 people in the company that know how to proficiently use Revit, and all of those people are young engineers. I am actually one of the workers that is designated to work on Revit projects.

Revit projects are also not very useful for smaller projects because it requires a lot of detail and time which would be unnecessary for a small project. Another issue is the contractor demands. If the contractor only wants 2D drawings, then BIM would be a waste of money. BIM is very useful for modeling buildings, and showing isometric views of the building and its sections. If the contractor only wants 2D, then programs like AutoCAD would be more beneficial since a lot of companies are proficient with it. In my opinion, AutoCAD projects are still going to be very popular in the next 10 years or so due to the all of the companies that have not adjusted to BIM. Once project managers and higher level engineers become proficient with BIM, I think BIM will take a huge jump in the industry.

A problem with Revit that I often run into is synchronizing. If a lot of engineers are on the model, or if the model has a lot of data in it, the software will take between 5-10 minutes to load. If the model is not synchronized periodically and there is an outage, the model will lose all of the progress since the last synchronization. I have been in this situation. I once was in the zone, and I kept ignoring the synchronization updates, and then I, as well as other employees, lost at least a hour and a half worth of work. That work would have to be repeated, which would cost money. One more issue I have with Revit is a central model cannot be opened in different versions which is frustrating. If other companies aren't updated with the same software, then there will be issues with linking in models etc. Also I grew accustomed to Revit 2019 & 2020, so when I have to work on a project in Revit 2018, I get frustrated due to the lack of advancements. Revit families, however, can be brought in from earlier versions which does make life easy. Revit families are very important in making a proficient building model.

Comments

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/future-of-bim.html

Michael,

I definitely agree that simulations and virtual reality will become very popular and very useful in the future. I also thought your statement about the possibility of changing aspects of the building systems in the 3D realm. For example, it would be extremely useful to be able to change a duct size or move mechanical systems around if I notice something that should not be there. I agree that having a 3D version of the building would be very useful when selling a building. It would clear up many questions that clients, engineers, contractors often have when they first get the project.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/bell-blog-3.html

Dane,

I agree with your standpoint that a lot of companies still like to use AutoCAD because of the familiarity and the fact that there most drawings that go out to the contractors are all 2D. Therefore, some companies do not think there is a need to adapt. However, over time I think Revit and other BIM software will ultimately take over as the dominate design softwares. I think the main thing that will make companies adapt to the BIM industry is the ability for multiple people to work on the project model at the same time. AutoCAD only lets one user make changes to a drawing at a time which limits productivity if multiple people need to be on the file.

Madeleine,

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/walker-elders-b3-advantages-of-revitbim.html

It is so beneficial that 2D linework appears to 3D in every view. I agree that Revit is better for presentation. It allows for 3D views, sections, and elevations without having to draft those views individually. One of my favorite aspects of Revit is the ability to look at in section, and be able to adjust the model through the sections. In my co-op, I have to draft piping and ductwork, and the sections are a lot easier to understand the situation as well as adjust the model. Communication is also a huge benefit from BIM with its synchronization capabilities, and its 3D features.

Links of References
https://www.revitmodelingindia.com/latest-blog/the-5-worst-problems-faced-during-bim-implementation/

https://www.matec-conferences.org/articles/matecconf/pdf/2016/29/matecconf_ibcc2016_00005.pdf

https://www.lodplanner.com/bim-challenges-potential/

B2 - Interoperability - Stephen Pettit

Interoperability is the exchange of data between applications. There are some issues and benefits with interoperability, and it is very important in the engineering, construction, and architecture industry. A lot of times when companies exchange data, it does not exchange correctly due to different programs, company standards, software bugs, or even just the year of the software being used. For example, converting a CAD dwg file to revit would run into problems, because a lot CAD drawings are drafted in 2D, and Revit's drawings are in 3D. Another issue is the interoperability of AutoCAD layers from one company to another. Every company has their own sets of the standards with how they like to create drawings, and how they like to assign layers. I have experience with this problem with my co-op. We will be getting all of the existing conditions from a client, but all of their layers are different from our company's standards which would affect the printing system. My job is always to convert all of the layers to our layers so that it will PDF properly which sometimes can take a long time. One solution in my opinion is to create a layer/properties standard for the industry, so that when companies exchange CAD files, there will be no need to fix the layers, and other parameters. Obviously this would be difficult to enforce, because every company will be reluctant to change all of their standards, and often times when old projects come back, those drawings would still be in the old format. It is an idea worth mentioning, but it would probably be difficult to go through with.

There are three level of requirements for interoperability to function problem. The first level is the external level. This is the "user's view on information exchange requirements". The user needs specific information to generate the data into a model with views, subsets, etc. The second level is the conceptual level. This level is referred to as a logical schema because it requires multiple users to provide the views, subsets, etc. The third level is the internal level which is where the software translates the information between two different systems.

There are also three different exchange methods which can be used depending on the issue. The first method is a direct through an Application Programming Interface between two systems. This is often used with specific softwares, and uses a basic coding system. Direct link is more effective when the companies involved are on the same page. The second method is a file data exchange. This method is used to exchange data through a model file using a proprietary exchange format which is basically a format that is developed from a commercial company to interface with a specific application. Each software has its own file exchange format. Autodesk develops popular exchange formats which is used with Revit, Autocad, etc. The third method is exchange through a model serving database. BIM is the most popular method because it allows automation to correct any interperoability issues.

File exchange method is quickly transitioning to BIM exchange because of a various of reasons. This method cannot determine who made the changes on a model. If an employee changes something on a CAD file, a project manager would not be able to tell who made the changes. One important issue is synchronization. Multiple people cannot work on the file at the same time, which would cause synchronization issues. BIM, however, have developed a sufficient synchronization system that allows multiple parties to access the model at the same time, as well as see changes throughout the development of the model. "Synchronization also addresses all the coordination issues among the different systems, including spatial clashes, intersystem connections, and load transfers between systems". 

In conclusion, Interoperability is very important in the building industry. Understanding this idea is important because we will be dealing with these issues in our career. I already run into these issues, and understanding this idea will help me more when these issues occur. I may be able to distinguish what issue we are running into whenever we receive a file from another company. Interoperability is also very beneficial because it allows you to communicate better with your clients and other employees. When interoperability is used correctly, projects will run more proficiently as well.

Works Cited

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.
https://ebookcentral-proquest-com.ezproxy2.library.drexel.edu/lib/drexel-ebooks/reader.action?docID=5447327

Comments:

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b2-core-technologies-and-software.html

Manon,

I enjoyed learning about all of the various BIM modeling softwares. I have worked with Revit, and ArchiCAD in my previous co-ops and both softwares are very useful. Between the those two, Revit is more useful in my opinion, but Archicad is very similar to Revit. Revit is convenient in which it turns all of the objects to 3D which is very useful. I enjoyed learning that there are servers that are beneficial for certain applications. For example, Tekla structures is interesting because it focuses on the fabrications, and is useful for the structural industry. You did a good job breaking down the different types of BIM servers.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/blog-2.html

Pritesh,

I thought your statement about financial risk was accurate and interesting. I work in the MEP industry, and when our revit model is accurate early in the design stage, it gives the project manangers, owners, and clients a better idea of where they are at with their budget. Communication is the most important aspect of getting a project done correctly, and on time. I've been in situations where the existing conditions were not communicated properly to us which lead us to inaccurate modeling. I do disagree a little with building's energy consumption being the least of the concern. Especially if the building must be LEED, energy consumption is one of the important aspects of the building design. I agree with your statement that BIM is a very useful tool for all parties involved.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/b2-bim-for-owners-and-facility-managers.html

Andrew,

Cost is extremely important, and for the owner is the most important. I agree with you that using BIM gives you a better idea of costs and estimates when it is on plan. For example, when you actually see all of the equipment on plan, you start to double check to make sure if its necessary, or if there is other options that could be implemented into the design that would be more beneficial. These options would just need to be maintained with code. BIM is very useful, and eventually will be used by every building industry company.

B1 - Stephen Pettit - Future: BIM, 3D Printing, Structures

I looked at articles pertaining to the futures in BIM, structures, and 3D Printing.

BIM

The BIM industry is quickly evolving, and it is becoming the common building strategy in a lot of architectural, and engineering firms. Building Information modeling is becoming popular because it allows the engineers and architects to see the building as a whole in 3D, without being on the site. There are many benefits to the BIM movement, and it also makes it more clear for contractors as well. For the co-op that I work for, whenever we do a revit job, we will often put 3D views of the ductwork and piping in the drawing set, so the contractors have a better visual of the locations of the mechanical systems. BIM is still involving, and there are some developments that are already being put into practice that will be used throughout the industry.

The developing idea is the interaction of the Internet of Things (IoT) and BIM. The IoT is basically the interaction and connection of devices and systems without the need for people to control it. Systems and sensors will be able to adjust to different situations in the building. There is already some systems that implement that such as thermostats, and lighting systems [3]. Hilti, a tool company, is already implementing the IoT into its tools to speed up the construction process. These tools will have sensors that will let it adjust its settings to "match the operator needs". This would speed up the process tremendously. They are also creating tools that provide maintenance to the equipment itself. Hilti is developing tools that help the construction industry with regards to time, money, and efficiency.

Another interesting development that I read is augmented reality in the building industry. What I found interesting that there are augmented reality headsets being used on site visits that will display a BIM image over the existing space. This is often used to make sure they did not miss anything important, or in case there is an error in the design. "Builders can get an exact sense of the dimensions, size, and the materials of the building."[3] This augmented reality will help engineers get a better sense of the space, and the existing conditions which would make it a smooth process for the contractors.


3D Printing

The article "Giant 3D printers for making boats, bridges, buildings and rockets" describes the different types of 3D printing that is evolving over time. When 3D printing first started to become relevant, the printers were designed to create small molds, and small models. The printers were very small, and often took awhile to produce the desired product. Now, technology has advanced so much that they are working on designing bigger projects such as boats, buildings etc. The size of the 3D printers is the main impact on the size of the product, and the speed of the processing. 3D printers actually make it more cost effective, and in some cases make the product more effective. Oak Ridge National Laboratory produces 3D printers that are capable to print objects that can be used in the building industry. A contractor used one of their systems to create small concrete molds for concrete casting that was actually more effective than the handmade castings. [2] Oak Ridge is coming up with solutions to print concrete itself, except it is irrational to be able to print out a whole concrete structure. It will be possible to print out portions of the structure, and then either have man power, or robotic technology to assemble the structure. [2]

A limitation to 3D printing now that is slowly making progress in the industry is the printing of metals. There is a way that involves robots welding metal inert gases. These robots essentially are the 3D printers. These robots are starting to be used for the building of rockets. There is actually a rumor that 3D printing could be used to develop structures for Mars, which in my opinion is unreal. 

Structure

With technology advancing, the structure of the buildings is also advancing. Buildings are taking shapes, and different sizes that were never imaginable before. "Physics laws provide limits, but those are only limits".[1] Structures are now being implemented by 3D printing, 3D lasering, and robotics. These methods provide better efficiency, and accuracy. Like in the BIM article, digital tools, and smart tools will be used frequently very soon in the building industry. Complex designs will need be to taken with precise solutions, and these tools will be very beneficial.[1]

Comments:

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/ai-httpswww.html
Amanda,

I found your Artificial Intelligence section interesting with how it will bring more jobs in. My thought process is that with robotics and AI taking over the jobs that are generally held by humans, they will simply replace them. The ordinary human rely on some of these construction jobs, and if they lose it then they would not have the experience to work elsewhere. It would force people to go into college, but with my experiences with my friends, school is not for everyone. In my opinion it will make the rich richer but the poor poorer. I personally think unemployment would rise dramatically. I do however, believe robotics and AI would benefit the building industry, and would provide efficient solutions.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/blog-1-mynaugh.html
Brian,

I enjoyed your review on the future. Smart homes are already in effect with voice recognition systems, and automated systems. I have a friend where he can say "goodnight Google" and all of the lights will turn off. The Thermostats will change to certain temperature. This is already happening now, and it is only going to evolve. Smart homes will eventually be more common, and there will definitely be more features and advancements. This is also occurring in commercial industries as well which will be beneficial for the work place.

https://ae-410-510-ay19-20.blogspot.com/2020/01/blog-1-hall.html
Jake,

I agree with your opinion on Keen's model of the thermostat. It would be neat for thermostats to be able to adjust strictly off of activity in the room. Say I have a party, and there is about 20 people in my house. It would be cool for the thermostat to read how many people in there, and adjust the temperature to the total amount of heat giving off from all of the people. With technology advancing, thermostats are already getting improved to change based off room activity. This technology with thermostats will boom the building design industry, and you would most likely see these types of sensors in most buildings.


Works Cited: 

[1] "Architecture in the Age of Autmation." Evernote. Created 30 Nov. 2019. https://www.evernote.com/pub/view/aengineer/ae-510/64c49362-4bb7-43f9-ae09-6fc03af1385d?locale=en#st=p&n=64c49362-4bb7-43f9-ae09-6fc03af1385d

[2] Sciene and Technology. "Giant 3D printers for making boats, bridges, buildings and rockets" Evernote. Created 17 Nov. 2019. https://www.evernote.com/pub/view/aengineer/ae-510/91966705-479d-40b8-b4db-6031a703cf2a?locale=en#st=p&n=91966705-479d-40b8-b4db-6031a703cf2a

[3] Williams, Dennis. “Three Tech Trends Shifting the BIM Industry in 2016.” Evernote, AECbytes Viewpoint, 21 July 2016. Created 31 Jan. 2017. https://www.evernote.com/pub/view/aengineer/ae-510/da590e33-9e5c-4f32-a75b-5320ac4e2841?locale=en#st=p&n=da590e33-9e5c-4f32-a75b-5320ac4e2841

Stephen Pettit - About

*Enters the Blog* Oh hello there, my name is Stephen Pettit. I am in my fourth year, and my concentration is HVAC in Architectural Engineering. I have worked with BIM for two MEP firms for my two co-ops. I've worked with CAD, and some Revit. In my two co-ops, I've worked with the mechanical systems in residential, commercial, university, and pharmaceutical buildings. I expect to further extend my knowledge in Revit, and to learn more about the future in the engineering industry with buildings.

The most interesting evernote that I found in my brief research is that 43% of an average man's job could be automated in 10 years. Another interesting fact is that Amazon already has about 100,000 robots in its warehouses.

My definition of an Intelligent building is that an intelligent building is one that utilizes technology to enhance a more efficient building with regards to the systems, the management, and the structure.

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