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A Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment of the Impact of 3D Modeling of Building Structures on Engineering Productivity |
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Background Parametric 3D modeling has the potential to replace the age-old paradigm of 2D drawings as the main medium of design, communication and information storage for construction in civil engineering (Eastman et al. 2003a). This research proposes to examine the economic impact of this shift. Its scope covers the two phases of structural analysis and design, and production detailing, with special focus on cast-in-place reinforced concrete. At present, 3D schematic modeling of structures for analysis is common, but structural design is still mostly communicated using drawings. Parametric 3D modeling is common for detailing in preparation for fabrication of steel structures; it is on the verge of becoming accepted practice for precast concrete construction, including the early design stages; however, it has yet to capture significant market share in cast-in-place reinforced concrete construction. Experience to date is that the major benefits of 3D modeling accrue to the fabricators and contractors, not to the designers (reduced error rates, automated production technologies, information flow in production, etc.). This research will attempt to go beyond the benefits reported in earlier papers (Sacks 2004; Sacks et al. 2004) by exploring potential productivity gains for the engineering design stage, including consideration of new work processes. |