B5: Group C - Alexis

Object Oriented Databases

In system programming, objects are made up of executable code and data. Instead of storing data in the form of integers, strings, or real numbers, object oriented databases store object attributes and object methods. Attribute data defines the characteristics of an object. This type of data could be a simpler series of integers, strings, and real numbers or complex code to describe object attributes. Object methods will explain the behavior of the object. These are the executable code functions or procedures that define how the object performs. Classes are a term used in object oriented databases to describe the categories of data and methods that the object may contain. Their role is to create an object template. Classes can be used to recreate portions of the object that are not stored in the object database. Methods are commonly stored outside the database as they are long strings of executable code, but can be recreated using the object’s specific class [1].

While relational databases store data in 2D tables, an object is defined by its methods and attributes. Relational databases will use unique strings to identify a column corresponding to a particular dataset. In order for an object to be placed into a relational database, it must first be described by simple integers or strings of real number data [1]. A separate table would be used for each component, with rows of data describing each of the object’s attributes such as dimensions and characteristics. Object oriented databases are less complex in that respect, since the objects’ methods and attributes do not need to be translated into simpler tabulated data.

Most traditional databases prevent the application from modifying data which has been stored on the database. Transient data is manipulated through the application, but persisted data is seen as locked in the database. Object oriented databases allow the application to have access to both transient and persisted data. Object databases can manipulate what would be treated as permanent for a traditional relational database. Object oriented databases can also be referred to as Object Database Management Systems (ODBMS).

Coding software that use objects like C++, Java, and GemStone write in object oriented languages. Object databases are most useful for complicated methods and attributes – wherever there is complex relationships or dependencies between datasets. The coder can control a certain hierarchy of objects and navigate easily between distributed architectures [1]. CAD programs utilize object oriented databases because modifying one parameter may affect other objects in the project.

References:

1. http://www.comptechdoc.org/independent/database/basicdb/dataobject.html
2. Challenges of BIM for Facilities Managers http://site.ebrary.com.ezproxy2.library.drexel.edu/lib/drexel/reader.action?docID=10677855
3. http://www.odbms.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/035.05-Grossniklaus-ODBMS-Lecture-ODMG-Standard.2009.pdf

Comments:

James,
You made some great points in your post, I agree that databases are characterized by being able to access information in multiple ways rather than a table organized by one or two categories. Like you mentioned, this is more practical for energy analysis software and more useful to design engineers in the building industry. My post focused on object-oriented databases used in 3D modeling, but I think your topic is more practical for generating schedules. One of the most useful features of Revit is quick summation of piping, mechanical equipment, and conduit used for cost estimating which is easily derived from a relational database.

Byran,
Very clear description of structured query language. It’s interesting that most websites are based on this platform of relational databases. Since it is a universal language, I would agree that many other applications use this type of database. I think relational databases are more common in generating schedules, while the 3D model is largely based on object oriented databases. My group’s topic was on ODBMS, object database management systems. These systems classify objects by their specific attributes and methods of behavior rather than breaking each component up into rows and columns with unique keys. It is much easier to retrieve and manipulate the parameters of an object this way.

B4: Group C - Alexis

My group is studying daylighting technologies in intelligent building for the final project. Daylighting is one feature of design that has a large impact on occupant productivity, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. We plan to study lighting sensors, smart glass windows, and passive daylighting techniques as three types of daylight harvesting strategies. Our project will also look into the energy usage of these three topics to compare their efficiency and common applications. My group was interested in researching the future advancements of daylighting, especially sensors and controls. I think this topic will be helpful for my senior design project as well. My team is working on designs to retrofit a historic warehouse to become a middle school. We want to incorporate the large existing windows of the warehouse into the overall lighting design in order to enhance the classroom environment and student productivity.

This research paper will be challenging in that the technology is only as beneficial as the occupants allow. Manual overrides that are not reset could potentially reverse the annual electricity savings. It will also be challenging to narrow our research since it is a broad topic and widely adopted in new construction.

This topic is tied to intelligent building because it is one aspect of adaptive technology. Lighting sensors read ambient light levels and will adjust the intensity of interior fixtures in response to the outdoor conditions. This control sequence depends on location, building orientation, and type of space. The photosensors adjust the electric lighting in the space based on the intensity of available daylight through building fenestration. The most advanced types of systems are connected to dimming switches, which will regulate the amount of electric powered lighting throughout the day. These systems are generally more difficult to install and more costly because of the additional sensors and integration with the building automation system.

All three daylight harvesting systems that we chose could be used together. Dimming systems will work the best in spaces with skylights, clerestory windows, light tubes, or glass curtain walls. Since these sensors and calibration have a high initial cost, they are most common in open commercial spaces like lobbies, open office spaces, schools, and malls. Passive lighting is nothing new to the building design industry, but adaptive technologies have found ways to take advantage of the variations in lighting levels throughout the day. Photosensors are now a common characteristic in new construction projects for occupant productivity and increased energy savings compared to the baseline model.

Reference:
http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/programs/daylighting/rp_simplifiedconcepts.asp

Comments:

Cathlene,
Very interesting topic - even though there is still a lot of research and testing to be done, this type of 3D printing could transform building design and construction. I am a bit skeptical that we will see this applied in the near future because of the two issues of buildability and flowability like you mentioned. It is a really interesting concept but there are still huge developments to be made before we see this applied at such a large scale as a building envelope. I think architectural firms will be the
most eager to adopt this technology for modeling complex forms and curved facades. This type of advancement will also call for a new skill set in the structural engineering field, since designers will need advanced software to model stresses around the built-in openings for duct mains, conduit, and piping.

Maq,
Sounds like a great project - it will be extremely helpful to have a 3D model that your group can develop throughout the term for section views and refer to for schedules. You may be able to link the AutoCAD plans to your Revit model through the Manage Links tab. That might help you match the existing floor plans which you can place on the demolition phase, and all new mechanical and structural systems can be on a separate new construction phase. Even though the central model and local files are not available here, having a 3D model will help your team visualize any coordination issues.

B3: Group C - Alexis

I thought the most interesting possible future advantages of building information modeling were the site survey applications discussed during the presentation. The digital terrain models created with 3D imagery allow for images and point clouds to be integrated into design development drawings [1]. This will improve the overall quality of the project by giving project engineers quick access to existing conditions or progress on site. Modeling site plans and mapping existing infrastructure will become significantly simpler in future years with 3D imagery. Like we discussed last week in lecture, with advancements in raster processing design firms can utilize drones to fly over project sites and collect hundreds of photos. These images are later stitched together in a scalable 3D model known as digital terrain models (DTM). A DTM is created by overlapping high quality images associated with specific coordinates. This will enhance topographic maps of the site and make demolition drawings much quicker, since existing conditions are already modeled. Developments have also been made in image recognition for 3D texturing applications.

Applying 3D visualization to as-built and record drawings comes with many advantages for the building owner and facility managers. Implementation has just begun for buildings in the post-construction phase, used during commissioning and the testing and balancing process to locate mechanical equipment throughout the facility [2]. As discussed in lecture, the facility manager will be able to hold up a tablet anywhere on site and identify the location of tagged items through their camera. Contractors will be able to outfit their digital record drawings with tagged locations of mechanical rooms and switchgear for commissioners. In the future it will become common practice for mechanical and electrical equipment to have individual QR codes. This way, facility maintenance and building owners can easily pull up their specifications, past performance, energy usage, and location on site. 

Advancements in parametric design software will continue to enhance the architectural complexity of buildings. Generally, the designer uses CAD software to manipulate lines of a digital plan. Today’s parametric technology automatically modifies the model when the designer changes a parameter, giving the architect and engineer more flexibility to explore design options. Future versions of parametric software will allow for more input parameters and make changes faster. Parametric models can already optimize features like natural lighting, ceiling heights, and structural systems, and they are also used to determine how much water and energy a building will need [3]. In the future, full body physical simulations will be applied to the 3D model to optimize the building layout. These simulations are currently used for the design of cockpits but could be applied to larger spaces to visualize occupant movement and human proportions. 

1. https://www.bentley.com/en/products/product-line/reality-modeling-software/bentley-descartes
2. www.researchgate.net/publication/283574972_3D_terrestrial_laser_scanner_for_managing_existing_building
3. http://www.technologyreview.com/review/517596/new-forms-that-function-better/

Comments:

Bridget,
I also think the main advantage of BIM software is the collaboration between design disciplines. Though there is a lot of progress that can be made to improve the parametric modeling of each type of system, the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and structural systems can be viewed in one model. This has drastically increased collaboration, allowing for integrated project delivery from the initial design concept to construction. I liked your point that BIM has given designers more flexibility to explore alternate aspects of each system.

Matt,
I agree that Revit has much to improve, but ultimately it is a software used to communicate the designs of MEP systems and not primarily an energy model. A pipe connection like that can be placed without connecting the elbow to the system, it will print as a true connection. In some cases, the software must be manipulated to better communicate the design to the constructor. Like you said in your post, Revit has drastically improved and is becoming the most widely used parametric modeling software for consulting firms.

B2: Group C - Alexis

Like Professor Mitchell wrote in his post on intelligent building, the term intelligence refers to adaptive computer technologies used to enhance any system or process throughout the building life cycle. These adaptive technologies have been applied to every phase of the industry, from coordination in design to facilities management. Applying 3D modeling to building design has streamlined aspects of the construction and maintenance phases through 3D visualization. BIM provides coordination models for clash detection, scheduling, quantity takeoffs, and estimating. Projects modeled with BIM software can be adapted throughout the construction phase to provide the owner and facilities maintenance with an As-Built model. Many owners now require this deliverable for more efficient and cost-effective building operation. Pumps, fans, and valves can be tagged with specific parameters such as material, size, and location for future maintenance.

BIM reduces the number of iterations throughout the design development phase. The use of adaptive computer technologies minimizes clashes between systems and the need for major rework late into the design of the project. There are significant cost benefits for owners on projects using BIM processes, since the software streamlines collaboration between designers of different disciplines. BIM is used to design high performance buildings with accurate cost estimates from the 3D model throughout the design. This gives owners more feedback early on in the project when client criteria has the greatest impact. Facility managers see reduced operational costs from as-built equipment specifications used for testing and balancing. Facility managers are given a say in the design of building systems through an integrated design method and shared perspective.

BIM can be used to provide the owner with energy analysis, building system simulation, and cost estimation at every stage of the design configuration. This helps the owner, developer, and building operators meet their goals of increased efficiency and sustainability for complex spaces and building systems [Table 4-1]. BIM may be most advantageous as a modeling tool for owners to visualize plans and ensure project parameters are met.

Another advantage is integrated project delivery (IPD) through building information modeling. Designers from multiple disciplines can work in the model at the same time, which increases the value of the project information in each phase for each member of the design team. The central model is a tool that supports collaboration instead of a piece-by-piece approach to design development [153]. Since the BIM-based integrated design process also allows more designers and engineers to refer to the same model throughout the project development, errors are resolved quickly and more reliable estimates are provided to the owner early on in the design development phase.

1. Hardin, Brad and Dave McCool. BIM and Construction Management: Proven Tools, Methods, and Workflows, 2nd edition. Indianapolis: Wiley, 2015. Print.

2. Chapter 4, BIM for Owners and Facility Managers - http://web.b.ebscohost.com.ezproxy2.library.drexel.edu/ehost/ebookviewer/ebook/bmxlYmtfXzM2NDIzOV9fQU41?sid=765df376-0982-4740-ab82-fefeb0ac7526@sessionmgr120&vid=0&format=EB&lpid=lp_151&rid=0

Comments:

Danielle,
I agree that the most valuable applications of building information modeling are the conceptual design and analysis phases of the project. Revit and other BIM software are most useful for 3D visualization of complex coordination between systems. Like you said in your post, this software can be used for system integration and analysis. Having a simulation and 3D model leads to increased energy efficiency, reduced costs, and better design practice. It especially improves collaboration between architects and engineers, since each designer has a better understanding of the other’s building system from a central 3D model.

Alex,
Your post did a great job of explaining ProjectWise and its benefits to the building design industry. I used Revit MEP during my past co-op and one of the most useful features is the central model that everyone can access. Each designer works in a local copy of the file but can sync their changes to the central model throughout the day, similar to GoogleDocs. I agree that a key component is file format, since design firms so often transfer models between software to analyze different aspects of the project. If the model is unreadable to common CAD programs, it cannot be imported and adds time to the overall design process.

B1: Group C - Alexis

All three subjects – robotics, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing – are beginning to see applications in the building design industry. Additive manufacturing is not a new technique, but has recently been used for rapid prototyping of structural elements, concept models, and prefabrication. The declining cost of commercial 3D printers has allowed architects and engineers to manufacture industrial prototypes within project budget (1). Engineers can analyze their scale models in a wind tunnel as an example. This applies to automotive and aerospace analysis as well as architectural models. Additive manufacturing of 3D printing technology has reduced costs and time compared to machining wind tunnel test models. Engineers are able to print smaller characteristics of the design like interior corridors that may be difficult to machine at scale using the traditional methods (2). Designers can also incorporate sensors into 3D digital models that are embedded during the printing process, such as velocity or pressure measurement devices.

Architects and archaeologists have been able to recreate historical landmarks using 3D printing, such as the Palmyra Arch, a part of a 2,000 year old Syrian temple destroyed in August by ISIS militants (3). The Institute for Digital Archaeology works to preserve these historical artifacts in a digital library for conservation. The 3D models can be shared with researchers or replicated around the world with the advancements in 3D printing. Combined with advancements in robotics, designers have begun to develop 3D printed structures using six-axis robotic arms. One Dutch company MX3D plans to construct a pedestrian bridge using digital fabrication. Their robots print with metal, precisely placing thousands of dots of molten steel essentially drawn in the air (4). The firm has experimented with freeform benches manufactured by robotic welding machines. Digital fabrication with robotics means that designs are no longer confined by the size of the printer.

Intel recently presented their developments on future trends in robotics and artificial intelligence. The company predicts that the technology industry is moving towards the Internet of things, personalizing everyday devices with human-like senses through an internet connection. At the 2016 consumer electronics show, Intel CEO Brian Krzanich demonstrated a Segway hoverboard that doubles as a personal robot (5). This device is intended for use in smart homes, with features like voice recognition and a 3D camera. The technology of this device runs on an open platform, which allows inventors to program their own applications and uses for the robot. This device will be able to communicate with the smart home to adjust temperature and humidity setpoints personalized with voice recognition.

1. http://www.computerworld.com/article/2500602/computer-hardware/3d-printers--almost-mainstream.html
2. http://www.stratasys.com/solutions/rapid-prototyping/functional-prototyping/wind-tunnel-testing
3. http://www.dezeen.com/2015/12/31/giant-3d-printed-replica-palmyra-arch-syria-installation-london-trafalgar-square-new-york-times-square-unesco-world-heritage-week/
4. http://www.dezeen.com/2015/10/19/joris-laarman-3d-printed-canal-bridge-amsterdam/
5. http://www.cnet.com/news/intel-looks-beyond-chip-roots-with-gadgets-ces/

Comments:

Alex,
Interesting article predicting the 3D printing of buildings. As this technology develops, it will become common for large sections of the building envelope to be prefabricated with simple piping and electrical connections. Digital fabrication will depend on comprehensive 3D models to print layers of the building skin and structure with varying densities of concrete. I agree with you that the industry is not ready to adopt this kind of construction for commercial applications. Most building design firms today use BIM just for producing plans and sections. The software is used for clash detection between systems, and not modeled with the additional parameters needed for those calculations like material density, required daylighting, or heat flux. That design process would require many more iterations and assumptions to create load bearing walls that correspond to the exact stresses the wall could experience due to lateral wind or earthquake loads.

Bryan,
I also read the article on the company MX3D and their plan to digitally fabricate a pedestrian bridge. This project will involve multiple robotic arms working together to essentially draw a steel bridge over the canal. While this construction method may be faster, the design development phase is a much longer and more complicated process. In the future this method of construction might reduce labor and material costs in the field, but it will require many more iterations to model every aspect of the complex design. I agree that the main draw to incorporate digital fabrication in construction is the greater degree of customization in material properties and design.

Alexis Aikins Introduction

My name is Alexis Aikins, I'm a senior studying Architectural Engineering with a concentration in mechanical systems. I'm from Houston, Texas. I completed 3 co-ops in the HVAC department of building design firms.

I decided to take this class as an elective because building information modeling is widely used in the industry to coordinate MEP building systems. I'd like to learn more about integrated project design and building automation systems in AE-510.

First definition of an intelligent building: An intelligent building uses sensors to monitor indoor conditions so that building systems can respond accordingly, optimizing occupant comfort. [Building Automation System]

Student Names - To Create Tags

Here are the names of the students in AE-510 as of 12/30/2015.  This post is mostly here to create the tags for labeling posts by students.  A second one will be necessary because blogger limits the length of tags that can be added at one time.

Alexis Aikins

Mohammed Al Qallaf

Hamad Al-Hajri

Faisal Alghati

Cristian Almendariz

Hatim Amiji

Maria Ayon

Danielle Beynon

Eduardo Borja

Samuel Boyce

Nikita Chauhan

Mridul Chulet

Sean Coffey

Alexandria Crouthamel

Bryan Cummings

Cathlene Farnelli

Katherine Flint

Bridget Frasca

Laura Hill

Adrian Kuzniarowicz

Yuanjin Li

Mark Lodato

Rebecca Lynch

Alex Palma

James Redus

Gary Reiff

Danielle Schroeder

Yuyang Shi

Yasmina Shields

Karan Sagar Sinha

Jonathan Swartz

Janet Tran

Dianna Vogel

Kai Waechter

William Whitesell

Laura Worley

Haoying Ye

Matthew Zabiega

Derek Zaccheo