Modeling and coordinating building systems in three dimensions: a case study

Abstract

This paper presents a case study that investigated a building system coordination process used three-dimensional (3-D) models during design and construction of a complex research facility. We modeled and coordinated a variety of building systems in three dimensions, including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. We documented the 3-D modeling and coordination process, evaluated existing software tools support of this process, documented the resources required to execute this process, and assessed the impact of the 3-D models on the coordination process. We also identified the design and construction knowledge used to create a coordinated and constructible design. We classified this knowledge in a framework instantiated by examples and concepts found in this study. The framework associates the design and construction constraints that govern the modeling and coordination process with the knowledge domain, the domain context, and the specific modeling and coordination task. The main contributions of the paper are the evaluation of the 3-D coordination process and the identification and classification of building system coordination knowledge.Key words: 3-D modeling, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) coordination, building systems, knowledge framework, product and process modeling, constructability.