A3 - BIM Programs

This week assigned reading discussed the overview of the major BIM model generating systems. The reading began be discussing eight capabilities that BIM programs can possess. These included:

1. -User interfacing

2. -Drawing tools

3. -Customizing and developing parametric objects

4. -Ability to scale

5. -Interoperability

6. -Extensibility

7. Complex curve surface modeling

8. User environment

Of the capabilities listed above, I find it extremely important for the first capability, User Interfacing, to be highly developed and “likable” by its used, particularly because a user-friendly interface attracts customers and creates a more enjoyable experience for the engineer, architects, and other trades involved in the design of a project.

The reading closes with a discussion on Revit, Bentley, ArchiCAD, and Tekla. Revit, in my opinion, has been the best CAD tool for architectural engineers that I have seen. The most important strength of Revit was perfectly summarized in the reading, where it stated: “It ’ s easy to learn and its functionality is organized in a well - designed and user - friendly interface.”

I found it interesting when reading about Tekla’s strengths that it excels in modeling structures that incorporate a variety of structural materials and detailing. This aspect may be beneficial for intelligent design applications.

Article 1

http://cad.amsystems.com/products/docs/autodesk-revit-6-implementation-introduction.pdf

The first article I read titled “Autodesk Revit: Implementation in Practice,” reported on the impact Revit had on design firms. The most interesting piece of information I gained from this article was that users who have reported using Revit increased their firms “level of service, quality and performance,” that they can provide to their clients. This statement alone indicates the power and impact BIM programs, such as Revit, can have on an industry. Again, as previously noted above, the main attraction to Revit was said to be its ease of use, and its ability to minimize creative limitations, which is extremely important for intelligent building applications, as they require creative designs.

Article 2

The second Article I read is titled “How can Tekla gain critical mass with the open Tekla BIM platform?” This article addressed an interesting dilemma for the competing BIM program, Tekla. That is, the question was posed “how can Tekla gain critical mass with an open platform?”

To answer this question, the article discussed the necessity for Tekla to be an interoperable program that can communicate with other BIM programs. An interesting suggestion was that Tekla collaborate with other BIM companies create a user friendly, adaptive program. I think this is an important point because customers like variety. Some individuals may not like Revit or ArchiCAD, and if Tekla improves its product, customers can begin to enjoy its various benefits and capabilities.

Week 4: BIM

The BIM Handbook (Chapter 2, pages 54-64) elaborates on building model generating tools and technology and introduces more BIM software and advantages and disadvantages of all BIM tools, such as Revit, Bentley Systems, and ArchiCAD. It was interesting to read the prioritization of BIM software capabilities for advancement with such technology. User interface is an obvious one, but it is good to read that further considerations are being made to make the design process more efficient and user-friendly, as design is surely moving forward to taking place via computers and integrated design processes (as prioritized in the multi-user environment section). The article also makes note of another priority called complex curved surface modeling. It is intriguing to imagine the capabilities of BIM software to accomplish and create complex building forms. The article emphasizes that there will not be one platform that is ideal for all project types and notes the applications of certain BIM tools. With the advancement of technology, especially in the field of building design, it is difficult to imagine this not happening. The other two sources relate the use of some of the BIM technology described in this article.

The second source is a video that demonstrates 3D BIM software that is used for the parametric modeling of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Users are able to download and import items from a database of BIM items supplied by global manufacturers. The video states how various parameters within each of the disciplines can be used to effectively sketch each system. The completed systems are checked and then inputted into a model with real-world conditions. Assessment of results emphasizes the efficiency of using such BIM software and 3D modeling. It should also be noted that changes among each system are updated in the other models automatically. This video provides great insight into how BIM modeling is enhancing the time and efforts required for integrated design.

The third article provides basic information to introduce BIM, but also delves into the importance of spatial modeling and states some key points about creating complex building forms; the article also further discusses the curved surface modeling mentioned in the BIM Handbook reading. The article describes how parametric curved surfaces are controlled by control points and are therefore defined to have parametric behavior. The article does well to explain the background work of BIM software, in terms of how modeling is performed and its advantages; as stated in the other two sources, this article also states how parametric objects are able to automatically reconfigure themselves solely based on the “rules embedded in them.” This feature is perhaps often overlooked when designing using BIM software, but its reiteration makes it evident how valuable different BIM software are to this field.

BIM and Intelligent Building Integration

The second half of Chapter 2 in the BIM Handbook was very informative.  I like this section much better than the required reading from last week.  The first half of the chapter was mainly about the history of how BIM was conceptualized and how the base idea works.  This week’s reading was mainly about the different functionalities of BIM along with reviewing the major programs available.  I found this to be very informative especially since the reviews included a brief description of the product along with listing strengths and weaknesses.  This information would be very useful to have if I was looking at purchasing BIM software for a firm.  While the handbook mentioned many of the different programs if I was purchasing a program I would still need to do more research, since most of the reviews, other than Autodesk’s and Bently’s programs, are very limited and not over detailed.  The conclusion was very accurate with what it said, however it didn’t really say anything.  It mentioned that the end result of what BIM will be used for in the future is unknown.  While I understand that this is mainly a reference book, I would have like to see a few speculations of how BIM may be used in the future.

            The first article I read was called “Chubb integrates intelligent building solution SafeRise”.  The article was relatively short but talked about a new type of building entry system.  The system is called SafeRise, and works by utilizing facial and voice recognition.  The system is very similar to set up as a regular entry system that uses cards or pin pads, requiring the hardware and the wiring.  One benefit of the system is that it is Ethernet powered which means only a cat5 wire needs to be run to the equipment.  The only downside that the article mentions about the system is that the software to make the system run properly is more complex, however this is not really a negative aspect of the program as all that work is completed before the owner receives the system.  The main benefit of the system is that granting new users access to the building only requires a voice print and a facial photo, which is significantly easier that current systems.  The other main benefit of the system is that you are able to drastically reduce costs in the ways of security guards and the materials needed: pin pads, fobs, cards.  This article is obviously meant to showcase the product and try to encourage potential buyers to make the jump, however it seems to be a very functional product.  Being that the article is meant to encourage buying, some of the information needs to be taken lightly.  For instance you cannot simply eliminate all security guards if this was placed in a build that had guest come by frequently, as they would still need to sign in or be given temporary access to the building.  The system and ones similar to this seem very promising as a potential future, possibly even becoming as advanced as the recognition system in the movie Minority Report, where the use of iris scans for recognition are used.

              The second article I read is entitled “Intelligent Buildings: Connect Building Systems to the Network to Reduce Costs and Conserve Energy”.  This article talks about the need and benefit of having all systems in the building on a central network working together.  It also talks about how having systems interacting together can save companies lots of money.   The article is aimed more towards governments as it mentions them multiple times over and does not mention companies or corporations.  The article list many ways that intelligent buildings can have a positive return on investment, which claimed by the article “in most cases the return on investment is less than two years”.  I find this very remarkable because most of the equipment is not mass used which generally has a higher price tag.  Also the cost of labor is generally high when installing into a new building.  I can see the two year return possibly if the labor cost are not included, which the article does not mention either way.  The main points brought up by the article about the return on investment are:

     -     Monitor energy consumption in real time to more quickly discover inefficiencies

     -     Precent bigger problems

     -     Reduce equipment acquisition costs

     -     Extend equipment costs

     -     Acquire LEED certification

     -     Participate in load demand response

This article shows only the benefits of creating intelligent buildings.  While the negatives are generally few it would still be nice to find a source that shows how few there are in comparison to the benefits.  The article is meant to show the benefits only of intelligent buildings.

BIM Part 2

The BIM handbook is a great reference for any BIM beginner.  The first half of chapter two was a great introduction into how BIM is structured.  The second half of the chapter discussed the different types of BIM applications which are on the market today, as well as a few oldies.  I found the discussion of the different BIM applications to be incredibly useful.  It outlined some basic strengths and weaknesses of some of the most popular BIM applications.  This comparison will allow me to anticipate possible errors when trying to convert files from one type to another.  One limitation of this handbook would be its relevance to present day BIM applications.  For example, the handbook discussed the strengths and weaknesses of Revit 9.1 which was released in 2006.  In five years, I'm sure the programs have been updated. 

BIM has many potential applications in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industries.  The first article I read (http://proquest.umi.com/pqdlink?vinst=PROD&fmt=6&startpage=-1&vname=PQD&RQT=309&did=2526918321&scaling=FULL&vtype=PQD&rqt=309&cfc=1&TS=1328045419&clientId=18133) discusses the role that BIM plays for facilities management.  The article is from the perspective of the building owner.  The article discusses the criteria an owner should expect from an accurate and useful BIM.  One key point is how the owner should define a clear set of criteria that he wants the model to perform within.  An owner should know that BIM can greatly improve a building’s energy efficiency by allowing greater control of HVAC systems.  However the potential savings should be compared against the overall cost of creating the model. For example, a laser scan of the current condition will accurately depict the in-place locations of components.  This allows for easy updating of the building and will introduce a high level of accuracy to the model, but it can be incredibly expensive depending on the building’s characteristics. Overall, an owner must also compare the time it takes to create the model to the level of detail that will produce a given output.  They must make sure that all costs of creating the model are included to make an informed decision.

The second article http://galenet.galegroup.com/servlet/BCRC?srchtp=adv&c=1&ste=31&tbst=tsVS&tab=2&aca=nwmg&bConts=2&RNN=A241945047&docNum=A241945047&locID=drexel_main discusses the role that high definition laser scanning can play in building renovations.  The first building was a 35,000 sq ft college building that included a very complex HVAC system.  In order to accurately depict the HVAC system, the contracted enlisted the help of an engineering firm that specialized in laser scanning.  They estimated that without the scan, an accurate model of the HVAC system would have taken at least 2 months and cost tens of thousands of dollars.  Instead, the high def laser scan produced 5.5 BILLION points of information and took only ONE week to collect the data (an additional 2 weeks were spent detailing the 3-D model with colors, etc.).  This technique, in my opinion, is the future of building remodeling.  While the initial cost can be high, the payouts can be huge.

The future of BIM is barely on the horizon.  With each year’s version, BIM applications are reducing bugs and expanding their capabilities and this trend is likely to continue.  The capability of accurate models to predict cost savings will become important to owners as resources become more competitive.  Ideally, every new building should have a BIM included in the final product, but even without it, the use of high definition laser scanning will enable older buildings to reap the benefits of BIM.

Options, Misconceptions, and Outsourcing

First my weekly quote:

"Object-based parametric modeling is a major change for the building industry that is greatly facilitating the move from a drawing-based and handcraft technology to one based on digitally readable models that can be exchanged with other applications."

- BIM Handbook, Chapter 2, pg. 63


A little bit about the handbook before I get into my articles for this week. I was surprised to see how many different BIM software packages there are available. It really puts into perspective my naivety on the subject; here I was aware of Revit, Bentley, and... that's it. I have never heard of any of the other 4 or 5 odd programs that the handbook elaborated on. Surprising. Disappointing too. Some thoughts on the different options:

- The more uses and interfaces the software provides, the steeper the learning curve. DUH. I'd say this is pretty obvious, but still, recognizing this does have some value. For people looking to get into BIM, starting with the more complex software may be a good route. Learning the program will be a struggle, but once you master the program, you'll likely appreciate the hardwork.

- Consistency. This goes tandem with the previous comment. Unfortunately, it seems to me like proficiency in BIM is a one way street; being good at one means neglecting the others. This is both good and bad. Bad news first: focusing on one will limit your expertise and cut you off from the potential uses that the other packages have to offer, where your preferred program might be lacking. There is no ultimate BIM tool as of yet, and different programs a good for different things. Knowing several of the programs would be quite a valuable skill; however, proficiency is hard to achieve. On the other hand, there is something to be said for picking one and sticking with it. Many of these software developers continuously work on updating their packages, and maintain many of the same functionalities, shortcuts and interfaces as they progress. This is no different than the current debate regarding 2D modeling programs: AutoCAD vs. Microstation (Bentley). Most people you ask like one and hate the other; its like Yankees/Redsox. Few people like both, and I wouldnt expect BIM to be any different.

The second article that I read (Reading #2 below) offers a good perspective on the current transition from 2D modeling to parametric BIM practices. The article clears up some of the misconceptions about BIM, as reported in other articles. I wont go into too much detail about the article, mostly because I wont do it justice. Its a wonderfully written article that I strongly encourage everyone to read for themselves. Rather, I want to briefly discuss something that occured to me while reading it. The article references several other articles that attempt to discredit BIM software as difficult, un-useful as well as one that aims to correlate the use of BIM with being sued. It leads me to wonder: is there an industry stigma on using BIM software? There are certainly a lot of companies that are hesitant to make the switch, and to a certain degree it is justifiable. These companies most likely have spent the last 30 years building up their CAD libraries, standards, file formats, etc.. And now, in addition to fighting for work in a heavily diluted industry, they are feeling pressure to update their technology? The thought of spending another 30 years to build up a new set of standards, typical objects and formats is quite daunting, and today making that investment could be the domino that puts a company out of business. These software packages are expensive to buy, not to mention the cost - both in terms of time and money - of training your employees to use the new software. Still, there appear to be some people who, rather than put in the effort to improve their practices, are content with fighting the change and discounting the obvious potential. Its an interesting perspective on the current state of our industry.

Speaking of potential, the first reading is a cool article about a proposed residential high-rise building in Mumbai, India. The city is currently overcrowded by dense horizontal planning, and the 200 meter building would be a relief on land constraints. The firm designing the building, Orcutt Winslow used a team of four architects, two each from the United States and India. This grouping provided the group with the techinical experience of American architecture, with the cultrual practices and details of the native region. The architects used ArchiCAD as their BIM tool of choice, which allowed them to create a 'modular' design file wherein they could rearrage the layout to provide the client with several different options. Pretty cool. Even cooler, the architects were able to collaborate on the project and simultaneously work on aspects of the model while remaining in their respective countries. This reminded me of a book that I read by Thomas Friedman called The World is Flat. The book talks about the effect that RFID, the Internet, Walmart, UPS and outsourcing are having on breaking down the geographical barries of the world, allowing information to spread faster, and people to collaborate easier. Add BIM to that list.

Reading #1 - Sahana Pride Project

Reading #2 - De-Mything BIM


Special treat for you guys this week. If you haven't happened across these two site yet, I strongly suggest you take a look at them. The blog is exactly what the title suggests - All Things BIM. The blogger talks about his opinions and also provides some pretty cool links to articles, software updates, etc. The website is outstanding. Both of my article this week came from this site. Its wonderfully crafted and I easliy spent 2 hours just clicking from link to link. Do yourself a favor and check it out!

Blog - All Things BIM

Website - Archdaily

BIM Assignment 2 - Week 4

I think the required reading for this week was very informative and brought up the details of the advantages and disadvantages of BIM software in a very clear manor. I agree with the paragraph emphasizing the importance of a friendly and intuitive user interface. With programs that are easier and more fun to use, I think this also increases the likelihood that the architects and engineers themselves will be constructing the models. With a user well versed in the details of the project rather than a CAD tech, less mistakes will appear throughout the modeling process. This is definitely an advantage that BIM software has over traditional AutoCAD or Microstation drafting programs. I thought the small section about curved surface modeling to be the most interesting. The idea that complex shapes could be modeled, and then directly exported to fabrication, would change the way architectural designs are created, and definitely open up the possibilities on this front. I believe this is already a technology being utilized in some places. I do however disagree that one platform will not be able to be used for all types of projects. It might take a while, but I think it's important for mechanical, electrical, structural, and other building components to be able to be designed and compared on the same level.

The second article I read was Organizing the Development of a Building Information Model by architect Jim Bedrick. This article discussed the varying levels of detail a BIM model must contain throughout 5 primary steps from conception through the actual as-built building. The author identified the main primary steps and the respective level of detail that must accompany the BIM process. He referred to levels 100 through 500 as conceptual, approximate geometry, precise geometry, fabrication, and as-built, respectively. He identified that this process would be difficult to time for every different project, because different designs progress at different rates. I thought it was interesting, and typical of an architect, to jump straight from precise geometry to fabrication and as-built without considering a step for other trades to consider their part of the building process. Perhaps the author was assuming that the step from approximate to precise geometry would include the other trades (structural, HVAC, electrical engineering, etc) to have their say and possibly alter the design. He left room in the program break down for each of the levels for cost estimating and sustainable materials, but did not seem to include a feasibility study for the original architectural design. Again, I think the integration of all the trades associated with creating an accurate BIM model will come eventually, but it will take a little cooperation and learning on the part of everyone involved.

BIM Products and Use

The reading this week from the BIM handbook discussed different BIM softwares. First the different components of a BIM software were discussed and which qualities should be looked at when someone is choosing a software to use. Several different examples were then discussed and their individual strengths and weaknesses were presented. Personally I did not realize there were so many different softwares geared toward parametric modeling. I had heard of the main ones discussed first like, Revit, Bentley, and ArchiCAD. After reading about the different softwares it is obvious that there is not a perfect system, each one has its individual benefits and drawbacks. The drawbacks usually being the learning curve necessary to use the software, the complexity of modeling capable in conjunction with object libraries available for each software, the ease of use of the model, and the softwares capabilities to interact with other programs. I believe the steep learning curve is probability the most challenging of these issues because this cause large amounts of learning time and longer work times to complete projects. So while a software such as Bentleys may be very good at modeling different shapes and curved surfaces, it may have very good object libraries, and work quickly and well with other programs, since it is difficult to learn how to use and has a poor user interface, it will take quite a long time for a user to actually obtain the software's full capabilities.

The other article that I read about BIM titles, "Application and Popularization of BIM Technology in Project Management." The article goes into several different areas within project management in which BIM can be helpful. These areas include, visualization, BIM allows the end users to see exactly how the construction should be completed. This is especially helpful in MEP applications where different piping systems need to be fit into the same space. The article also discusses integrating BIM models with GIS systems which is an interesting idea that I had not thought of. Through integrating with GIS, more information about the land being used would be available.