Introduction Of Building Information Modeling Research Articles

Integrating Rapid 3D Data Collection Techniques to Support BIM Design Decision Making

In recent years, there have been rapid developments in techniques available to capture three dimensional data with regards to the existing built environment. Such technologies support the collection of both large scale landscape and streetscape data, as well as information pertaining to building details such as sculpture and decorative features. During the past five years, there has also been a similar development in the software technologies available to support building information modelling (BIM). Whilst the emphasis in terms of initial introduction of BIM has been predominantly within the construction phase of new developments, there is clear potential to incorporate 3D data pertaining to the existing environment, with apparent value in terms of both the conceptual design phase and during detailed consideration of spatial layout and environmental analysis. This paper describes the processes involved in incorporating on-site collected 3D data within BIM, including modelling and analysis processes.

BIM Education for Engineers via Self-Directed, Creative Design

Disruptive technologies have found traction in the construction industry, affecting long established processes and rendering old methods of design communication and construction management increasingly obsolete. Pressure is on traditional Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) schools in academic institutions to respond to this paradigm shift in industry. Common among engineering schools is the necessity to maintain fundamental subjects as approved by accreditation boards. Hence it is difficult to create space for Building Information Modeling (BIM) given a curriculum already packed with established modules. This is a primary reason for the slow uptake of BIM in engineering. For engineering schools the question remains, how best to integrate BIM into the curriculum? This educational case study outlines the introduction of BIM into the curriculum of Civil and Structural Engineering students through an unobtrusive method that does not require curriculum restructuring and does not require module refocus. Two project-based modules, with inherent ‘design thinking' objectives, are adapted to enable BIM tools to be used as design, analysis and communication tools.

BIM-Enabled Virtual and Collaborative Construction Engineering and Management

Today's construction engineering and management (CEM) graduates must have strong communication and teamwork skills; they must have the ability to work efficiently within colocated teams; and finally, they must know how to apply fundamental engineering, man- agement, and computer skills in practice. However, the traditional CEM education does not equip future engineers and managers to deal successfully with such issues. The authors describe experiences from a course that focuses on modes of learning involving virtual collabo- ration, problem-oriented project-based learning, and role-based learning. The aim of this course is to combine experimental and experiential learning into a research driven experience. The course was codesigned and cotaught by two instructors from two universities. The learning outcomes and lessons learned during the introduction of this building information modeling (BIM)-enabled virtual and collaborative con- struction engineering and management course are discussed. Specifically, it is shown that the introduction of BIM in a virtual collaborative setting allows instructors to design a course that incorporates the use of more realistic scenarios that better simulate real-world challenges. Such experiences teach students how construction projects are executed in practice, how different disciplines rely on one other for infor- mation, what type of information is needed from relevant disciplines, and when and how this information could be exchanged/shared between tools and processes. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)EI.1943-5541.0000098. © 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers. CE Database subject headings: Construction management; Scheduling; Teamwork; Communication; Information management. Author keywords: Multidisciplinary teamwork; Building information modeling (BIM); Construction engineering and management; Virtual collaboration; Estimate; Schedule; Quantity takeoff.