B5: Databases and Design - Danielle Beynon (Group D)

A database is defined as “a collection of information that is organized so that it can easily be accessed, managed, and updated.” [1] Databases are taken for granted somewhat, since they tend to be “behind-the-scenes” systems that people access every day without being fully aware of it. An endless number of companies and offices use databases to organize information, even engineering companies.

In the 1980’s, structural engineering programs were starting to be integrated with comprehensive design systems, and a central database was required to do so [2]. With this database, updated information could be attainable for design as it progressed over time. Upon reading a particular article, I learned that at this period of time, the functionality of database management systems (DBMS) was being implemented in structural engineering for better design efficiency. DBMS can store data so that various applications, present and future, are able to use it [2]. These systems allow for organization of storing a wide range of data, which can help designers to continuously add modifications that can be retrieved at any given time. Given that this example was applicable over 30 years ago, database systems have continued to thrive and improve.

Since we have discussed and used Revit frequently in AE510, I think that it is important to realize what this BIM program has to offer in the realm of databases. Revit contains a plethora of database information, which not only helps designers to make changes endlessly but without which the program would not serve its purpose. As we have learned, engineering companies in a variety of disciplines have adopted Revit as their chief design software and it is with databases that the functionality exists. All of the data that is generated when creating a model (materials, families, level designations, etc.) is stored in one or more databases so that any changes that are made can be reflected in the most recent version of the model. This is a wonderful characteristic from the designer’s standpoint, since the transfer of information from one discipline to another is simple and efficient. Rather than having one engineer entering the necessary changes, any engineer in the office can directly modify the model.

Looking forward, I expect that designers will always depend on databases for their structured storage and ease-of-use in obtaining information. Now that I have learned about several database applications, I realize the hidden importance that comes with using these systems. It is certainly incredible to think about how programs, online applications, and file exchanges are all tied to databases; they are constantly updating as design progresses, something that is crucial to the success of engineering projects.

References:

[1] http://searchsqlserver.techtarget.com/definition/database

[2] http://repository.cmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1011&context=cee

Comments:

1) http://ae-510-ay15-16.blogspot.com/2016/02/it-isgenerally-accepted-that-databases.html

James,

Similar to your post, I discussed how databases are used by structural engineers and designers in other fields. I, too, realized that no particular database is available for structural engineering alone but this is not a limitation. Rather, databases in BIM software allow for a structural engineer to access more information than is required; this is a better opportunity than having a limited database containing only pertinent information about structural design. With BIM databases, mechanical engineers, structural engineers, and architects can access data efficiently since the databases cover a wide range of information.

I enjoyed reading about the general history of databases that you provided. It is interesting to see that databases are being applied to more and more fields, since they aid in making companies more efficient. I cannot think of a job that does not involve database access; they certainly are a reliable source of information.

2) http://ae-510-ay15-16.blogspot.com/2016/02/b5-group-e-allison-lock.html

Allison,

My post involved how databases are applicable to designers so it was interesting to learn from your post how databases are applicable to contractors. It sounds like databases help with advertisement for contractors and like you said it is somewhat a “buy-and-sell” technique. However, I believe that it is more than that; not only can contractors advertise, but they can access information regarding contracting from a variety of database resources. If they experience a unique problem during a project that they do not know exactly how to fix, they can access a database to see if this problem was encountered before, and they can see potential solutions to this problem. I have not done research regarding this idea, but I am sure that this is helpful in some cases. Databases contain a plethora of information and as long as one performs the right search or looks in the right place, applicable information will come to them.