BIM- Multi Disciplinary Collaboration -Essay Writing - Assessment Answer

BIM Assignment

Assignment Task

BIM is regarded as an effective means of fostering multi disciplinary collaboration on construction projects. Critically analyse different explanations given for this phenomenon and consider what implications BIM might have for integration of information on projects

Introduction

This paper focuses on BIM. BIM or Building Information Modeling is modeling information about buildings and structures (Sacks, 2012). Models are presented and stored digitally. They reflect the physical and functional characteristics of a building. Modeling is done through computer software to assist design. The model is created using a three-dimensional object such as a wall, ceiling, roof, window, door, etc. which are broadcast parameters. Changes in the elements constituting the model are reflected in the three-dimensional representation of the model, in statements of geometrical and material data (Eastman, 2014). The aim of this paper is to critically analyze effectiveness of BIM as a means of fostering multi-disciplinary collaboration on construction projects.

Development of the concept of BIM:

According to Sacks (2012), Industry Foundation Classes is a text-format data describing the model building. It takes into account the structure defined by the designers. The IFC format is the foundation upon which files are written, which can be used in a variety of programs, and classes of BIM regardless of the industry and of the manufacturer. At present, the current version is IFC4. There are various views about the origin of this concept. Krygiel and Nies (2016) state that the company which pioneered the application of BIM concept was Graphisoft of Hungary, which implemented it with the name Virtual Building since 1984 in April in its ArchiCAD program, recognized as the first CAD software for personal computer capable to create both 2D drawings and 3D; Autodesk began using BIM concept since 2002 when it bought the Texas company Revit Technology Corporation for $ 133 million. According to Eastman, C. (2014), many have pointed out that it was Professor Charles M. Eastman, of Georgia Tech Institute of Technology, who spread the concept of information model building first, as a synonym for BIM, in the early seventies in numerous books and scholarly articles. However, there seems to be general consensus that Jerry Laiserin was the one who popularized it as a common term for the digital representation of construction processes, with the aim of exchanging information and collaboration in digital format (Dobelis, 2013). This capability today is offered by different technology providers such as Tekla, Sigma Design, Autodesk, etc. Moreover, the concept of BIM, in the area of architecture and construction, has several options for software platforms and implementation. In 1978, the first version of SigmaGraphics, developed by Sigma Design International, Alexandria, was presented in Louisiana. It was named ARRIS CAD in the year 1984. It was an environment completely dedicated to architecture and construction. This software was originally developed for multitasking environments such as UNIX / XENIX and currently works under operating systems Windows (Quirk, 2012).

Technological framework of BIM:

Computer-aided architectural design (in short CAAD), is the technological framework or building block of BIM. It is computer-aided design for architects. The CAAD software has a database with geometric shapes, which are associated with certain properties. Unlike standard CAD software, architects may have recourse to construction-specific objects and data. The software keeps track of all components together with properties and supports the creative use during the design phase. The boundaries between CAAD software and other computer-aided design software cannot always be clear. So classic animated programs such as are 3ds Max are also used to represent designs by architects and presenting or animating. The application of the finite element method can be part of a CAAD software (Dobelis, 2013). It is used very rarely in the draft determination and is only used for mathematical verification of building structures. The structure of typical CAAD software usually consists of at least two levels. The first level is used to calculate and display the geometric definition of the draft. This internal representation, depending on the software, consist of 2D or 3D models. At this level, the plans with other data such as labels, on dimensions and material properties are linked. The results of this process can be output as plans, in floor plans, sections, elevations and 3D models in spatial representations. On a second level, this aggregate is provided with additional information, the geometric structures are analyzed with database operations. This allows to create Meta in a list, such as area lists and lists of quantities, bills of material, and some construction schedules. Because the computer can accomplish a high computing power and thus calculate and represent technically data, it is not feasible to monitor constructions and arrangements at this level. BIM expands upon the concept of this structure by enabling collaboration and communication between different parties involved in construction work (Quirk, 2012).

Conceptual framework of BIM:

According to Chuck (2015), a concept that acts as a framework of BIM is Workgroup Computing. Workgroup computing refers to the support of the team or group work that requires a high degree of cooperation. The communication, coordination and collaborative editing of challenges for the performance of ones duties are at the forefront. The group members can thereby work geographically and with time independently. To make this possible special tools are required. These tools are generally used as groupware. For Internet-based groupware, the term is also often social software. Aish (2014) states that BIM is an advanced type of such software. Groupware describes the combination of software that allow the computerized group work. It is not the division of labor, but the joint provision of services in focus. So a common document can simultaneously be created, for example, for more than one person. The software takes on the coordination of the group members. Workgroup computing supports three basic areas: Computer-assisted sessions, Tele-cooperation and Information Sharing.

As per Ruffle (2013), computer-assisted sessions is another key concept. The aim of the computer-assisted sessions is the efficiency increase of sessions. The potential of cooperation is better utilized, thus achieving higher productivity. This is achieved through various opportunities that the virtual labor brings. For example, contributions to a Community solution can be made anonymous. Such anonymity leads generally to increased openness in hierarchical organizations. In addition, one can work in parallel through the use of computer-based sessions, which increases the productivity of a large group significantly. It can lead to significant time savings over traditional meetings, also larger groups are possible because all members can work on a document at the same time. At the same time a higher level of participation and democratic decision-making processes are achieved (Laiserin, 2013).

Aish (2014) points out that another important component of BIM is the sharing of information. It offers the opportunity to exchange and share information and data. The group members involved have a common use environment. Here, functionality is not only restricted to exchange of information, but parties involved can create, edit or share information. Well-known examples from everyday life are Google Drive, Dropbox or private wikis. Workflow Computing, another important aspect, provides the workflow in the center of the computer-assisted group work. Chuck (2015) states that, the concept describes the coordination of labor activities and the dynamic flow of processes. Here the emphasis is not consequently in solving a common task, but rather in coordinating the successive subtasks. So the technical support does not take place in the interaction of a group, but in work processes and the associated information flow. This reduces lead from general operations. Through workflow computing, the work progress can be automated and especially controlled. Therefore, the handling of processes designed is faster, more reliable and without media discontinuities (Dobelis, 2013).

Impacts of BIM on multidisciplinary collaboration in construction projects:

Mingucci (2012) points out that BIM concerns both the geometry, the relationship with space, geographic information, quantities and properties of building components (for example, details of manufacturers of doors). BIM can be used to illustrate the entire process of building, maintenance and even demolition (recycling more materials). Amounts of materials with shared properties can be extracted easily. In addition, work areas, details of components and sequences of construction activities can be isolated and defined. BIM software are able to achieve such improvements through representations of the parts and components that are being used in the construction of a building. Computer assisted representation based on objects is a substantial change in the traditional production based on the representation vector (Quirk, 2012).

According to Lincoln (2015), Building Information Modeling describes a method of optimized design, implementation and management of buildings with the help of software. It helps in multidisciplinary collaboration as all relevant building data is digitally recorded, combined and networked. The extensive networking and easy access to information ensures smooth communication and collaboration between different departments involved in construction work. For example, the amount of raw materials used and needed are highlighted in the software. As soon as a raw material is about to run out, suppliers are notified through the system. Thus ensures that there is steady flow of raw materials and that there are no communication gaps. The building is visualized as a virtual building model and geometric computer model. Building Information Modeling is used both in the building industry for building design and construction (architecture, engineering, building services) as well as Facility Management (Mingucci, 2012).

As per Aish (2014), in classical planning an Architect created a design and added features to this; nowadays, the same is done with the help of CAD systems. The plans include specialist engineers, fire protection experts and authorities. BIM helps every party to stay connected and well informed about the different aspects of the project. For costing a quantity takeoff is based on the drawings created. These link the geometries with monetarily defined performance components, in turn, enabling collaboration between authorities, financiers and architects. This is necessary so that the huge amount of details can be summed up in power positions or imputed partial services. When an amendment is made to the planning, the drawings need to be changed, the quantity determination needs to be aligned. BIM ensures that all participants receive updated drawings and to match them with their technical plans. This causes a significant coordination and effort, which can be significantly reduced with BIM (Mingucci, 2012).

According to Laiserin (2013), with BIM, the architect or professional planners makes changes to the project file and the model. These changes are made automatically for everyone involved, both as a drawing as well as a data packet. The changed versions are made directly available to every party involved. Thus, BIM improves multidisciplinary collaboration through easy and effective communication. Masses and numbers, for example, serve as a basis for cost calculations and are automatically adjusted. For example, as a result of changes in the plan to change the number and description of the doors in a building, the architect changes the doors in the virtual building model. Thus the door list is automatically changed and with appropriate links one can see the immediate effect on the cost (Lincoln, 2015).

Advantages of BIM:

Characteristics and advantages of the method are:

• Improved quality of the data, as they all go back to a common database and are constantly synchronized
• Immediate and continuous availability of all current and relevant information for all those involved
• Improved exchange of information between those involved in planning
• Continuous data preparation during the entire life cycle of a building
• The improved data reconciliation ultimately enhances the productivity of the planning process. This improves the project in terms of cost effectiveness, schedule and quality (Quirk, 2012).

Disadvantages of BIM:

The negative aspects of BIM are as follows:

• High expenses of training and software, as computer systems might need to be upgraded ad extensive training must be provided to all human resources involved.
• Increased effort at the onset of a construction project, as if BIM is used, each party or department involved needs to focus on collaborating with each other. They can no longer simply focus on their respective core areas.
• While BIM increases speed of work, it is also disruptive. Lead time can get increased due to disruption and procurement can get delayed. For example, if sudden changes are made to a design, the new amount of raw materials needed might be very difficult to procure and it might take months to acquire these (Dobelis, 2013).

Standardization of BIM:

As per Quirk (2012), the term Building Information Modeling was coined by Autodesk to represent a "three-dimensional, object-oriented, AEC-specific computer-aided design process." It is between a distinction parametric building model and an intelligent building model. In parametric building models, all elements can be mutually brought into dependencies (walls, ceilings, dimensions, annotations, objects, cutting lines, etc.), while the intelligent building model intelligence is limited to individual objects. The international organization Building Smart aims to establish open standards (open BIM) for the exchange of information and communication based on Building Information Modeling. Building Smart has developed a basic data model - the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) for the model-based data exchange in the building industry (Mingucci, 2012).

As per Jernigan (2014), this standard was born from the initiative of the IAI (International Alliance for Interoperability), since renamed Building SMART, involving companies in the construction industry and software publishers. This national organization is divided into chapters – for example, Media construct is the French representative. Its main objective is to promote the interoperability of software in the Construction sector. IFC is a formalism derived from STEP. The objective is the same: Replace fragmented information system with an interoperable solution with a common data model. All actors of a building project (architects, engineering firms, client companies, etc.) enrich a common model of the project. Using software compatible with IFC, they no longer have to translate, often manually, data from one format to another. Productivity is improved, loss and data corruption are greatly reduced, including non-geometric data (cost, process, etc.) (Chuck, 2015).

According to Jernigan (2014), IFC is the standard exchange format commonly used by software to work in BIM (Building Information Modeling). In the acceptance of BIM, the IFC format, which is open standard, is understandable to all stakeholders of the construction. It helps in organizing objects in the construction industry around a 3D computer model: the digital model. These objects can contain information about the entire life cycle of a building including early stages (i.e. the design, documentation and construction), operation of buildings, facility management and finally, demolition and disposal. IFC provides standards for each object geometry (if any) and the information attached to them (e.g., cost, information about the manufacturer, etc.). The IFC data model is specified in EXPRESS language, and conforms to ISO 10303-11 (STEP part 11). It is an object-oriented model that defines the classes associated with all construction objects. A work model is a hierarchy of class instances of the IFC model. Trade is conducted through 21-STEP files (ISO 10303-21) or XML (ifcXML). IFC prioritizes construction of a building as follows:

• One area contains several buildings,
• a building has several floors,
• a floor has several rooms, etc. (Hardin, 2009).

Analysis of popular BIM systems:

ArchiCAD:

As per Aish (2014), ArchiCAD is a CAD / BIM program for architects, which is developed by the company Graphisoft, which is a part of the Nemetschek Group since 2007. Worldwide, approximately 200,000 architects plan with ArchiCAD. The program is specially developed for the construction industry. It is based on the so-called BIM (Building Information Modeling). Formerly at Graphisoft, it was called Virtual Building. It is a single step 3D –Modelling system, with mass, material properties, and the like stored. In this program, planning can be done in all phases of architecture such as engineering, and renderings, mass lists, living area calculations, detail drawings, BOMs and other options are generated (Kymmell, 2012).

The latest version (2016) is ArchiCAD 20, and it supports operating systems like Microsoft Windows 8, Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows 8.1, Mac OS X 10.8 / 10.9 / 10.10, etc. The file format for standard projects is PLN. More ArchiCAD file formats are PLA (Schedule Archive), TPL (project templates), MOD (Plan Module) and PMK (PlotMaker files). Interfaces are available for DXF, DWG, IFC - and DGN files. Since ArchiCAD 13, BIM Server is an integral part of the program package. With BIM Server and ArchiCAD, users can work with Teamwork 2.0. Several users work simultaneously from different computers on a project that is hosted on the BIM Server. For ArchiCAD various additional products are available that expand the scope of services in certain areas (Lipman, 2013).

ArchiCAD is available as a commercially viable version, as a student version or a 30-day trial. The installer files can be downloaded without registration for all three versions. Serial numbers for the free student version or the free trial versions are provided after registration. Data that have been created with the ArchiCAD student version is compatible with the full version, but are always separated by a watermark. Each project that was created in the student version, retains the watermark. In the 30-day trial data can be saved, printed and published. All data formats are fully compatible with ArchiCAD full version as soon as the commercial version is installed. Otherwise, the files in the trial version are readable only in the ArchiCAD version in which they were produced (Hardin, 2009).

As per Lipman (2013), ArchiCAD is a BIM architecture program for Windows and Macintosh whose development began in 1982 for the Apple Macintosh and became a famous product for that platform. It is recognized as the first CAD product on a personal computer able to create both 2D drawings and 3D. It was called a "vertical software." ArchiCAD allows the user to work with objects to which parametric data are applied, often called "smart objects" by users. This differs substantially from the operation mode of the other CAD programs created in the '80s. The product allows the user to create a "virtual building" using "real" structural elements such as walls, floors, roofs, doors, windows and furniture. The program comes with a wide variety of pre-packaged customizable items that the user can create autonomously, either by using the primitive elements of the program or by using the language GDL (Kymmell, 2012).

ArchiCAD allows one to work using both 2D and 3D representation (Levy, 2014). Plans, sections, elevations, lists of materials and other options processed are generated directly from the program based on the three-dimensional model of the building, and are updated in real time. This helps architects communicate with other parties involved in a construction project, for example, contractors, engineers, suppliers, customers, etc. Each update or change made in ArchiCAD by the architect gets automatically updated and communicated to the other parties. This ensure everyone is on track and every requirement of the project is fulfilled. ArchiCAD minimizes communication gaps and ensures effective collaboration between different teams working in a construction project. The best part of it is that the collaboration is almost automatic and computerized, with the software continuously updating information to all parties and highlighting respective needs and steps that need to be taken by each party. For example, if a change made by an architect generates the need for a particular raw materials, the suppliers are notified automatically and immediately. ArchiCAD is highly accessible and user friendly. It saves projects in PLN and can export their models in various formats, including DWG, DXF IFC and SketchUp (Krygiel and Nies, 2016).

Tekla Structures:

According to Lipman (2013), Tekla Structures is a program of computer - aided design and computer aided manufacturing in 3D (three dimensions) for the design, detailed, exploded, manufacture and assembly of all types of structures for construction. Developed by the Finnish company Tekla has a worldwide presence through its own offices and official representatives. The usefulness of this application is not only based on three - dimensional modeling of the work to be executed. Like other programs based purely on 3D, it does not simply draw directly parametric solid lines but functions within a single 3D model. In the construction sector, its structural elements are clearly pre-defined; it is possible to model directly and quickly create profiles and general details. Through Macros and predefined solutions solved joints and structural joints are easily created (Kymmell, 2012).

As per Krygiel and Nies (2016), once the structure is modeled to build, the program is able to generate all kinds of planes, cutting and manufacturing, as well as listings of materials and parts. All this information is all dependent upon the model and therefore before any changes take place in the model, all planes are updated to reflect reality. The concept parametric program makes creating and modifying elements quick and easy. For example, when creating a union that depends on the width of a column, the elements of the union shall be sized in accordance with the size of the column. Also, by modifying the dimensions of the pillar, the affected unions adapt their shape and size to this change automatically. This software archives different formats of outputs for the machines, such as tables for Oxicorte / Plasma machines, scrap metal, saws and drills, etc. (Levy, 2014).

As per Underwood (2014), the shock control option helps the designer to locate the existing collisions that would prevent the manufacture or assembly. One can also exchange data with a high number of applications used in the field of Engineering and Architecture, (electrical systems and pipes, machinery) thus achieving coordination of the design of the different specialties. Tekla Structures provides the ability to integrate with some calculation programs and melting steps and detailed design of structures. It also facilitates the external programming through .NET, opening a door to countless applications and external controls. Thus, it can be seen that this BIM software too helps in coordination and collaboration between different disciplines involved in construction projects (Smith, 2012).

BIMserver:

Weygant (2015) states that BIMserver (Open Source Building Information Model Server, formerly IFC Server) is an IFC standards compliant model server used for managing building information modeling projects. The server software is free software. The BIMserver software is developed by the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research TNO, the Eindhoven University of Technology TU / e, by Oracle and by a smaller group of programmers. As a collaboration software, BIMserver allows simultaneous engineering, distributed simultaneous processing of virtual models with programs of various software vendors. The software is used in the planning (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) and in real estate (facility management) (Underwood, 2014).

According to Kori (2013), the software can also be used by Suppliers of building components such as doors, windows or HVAC systems which are used as products. In addition, the products can be linked as IFC Models in Building Models, which are distributed as building data infrastructure. BIMserver is not a file server, but a schematic object-relational database by IFC standards. Given a performance, Berkeley DB is used by Oracle. The abstraction of the software architecture allows for future development with other database systems. The software has a model-driven architecture and involves Java programming, but also uses an IFC Engine DLL in C ++. The DLL functions of IFC Engine are tested and functional on Windows, Linux, Unix and Mac OS X on both 32- and 64-bit systems (Smith, 2012).

As per Weygant (2015), the user can upload and download rights and project management elements of partial and main projects via a graphical user interface that can be accessed via a web browser. This conforms to the W3C standards. To view the model in the browser BIMserver has a WebGL implemented viewer. For this, the JavaScript library o3d is used by Google. BIMserver has a SOAP interface implemented. As web is Building Information Exchange Protocol (BIM ExPro or shortly BIEP) Sable and oBIX are used in combination. Thus, projects in a desktop software can be represented. For example, Autodesk Revit via Plugin with BIMserver data exchange. For the integration of information from the IFC-model to other web applications, the REST interface available. Each IFC object has its own URL and can be accessed depending on declaration either anonymously or password-protection (Kori, 2013).

Conclusions:

This paper concludes that Building Information Modeling describes a method of optimized design, implementation and management of buildings with the help of software. It helps in multidisciplinary collaboration as all relevant building data is digitally recorded, combined and networked. The extensive networking and easy access to information ensures smooth communication and collaboration between different departments involved in construction work. The paper has pointed out that, with BIM, the architect or professional planners makes changes to the project file and the model. These changes are made automatically for everyone involved, both as a drawing as well as a data packet. The changed versions are made directly available to every party involved. Thus, BIM improves multidisciplinary collaboration through easy and effective communication. IFC is the standard exchange format commonly used by software to work in BIM (Building Information Modeling). In the acceptance of BIM, the IFC format, which is open standard, is understandable to all stakeholders of the construction. It helps in organizing objects in the construction industry around a 3D computer model: the digital model. These objects can contain information about the entire life cycle of a building including early stages.