US20080077364A1 - Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system - Google Patents
Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080077364A1 US20080077364A1 US11/776,923 US77692307A US2008077364A1 US 20080077364 A1 US20080077364 A1 US 20080077364A1 US 77692307 A US77692307 A US 77692307A US 2008077364 A1 US2008077364 A1 US 2008077364A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- building
- user
- parametric
- objects
- assembling
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F30/00—Computer-aided design [CAD]
- G06F30/10—Geometric CAD
- G06F30/13—Architectural design, e.g. computer-aided architectural design [CAAD] related to design of buildings, bridges, landscapes, production plants or roads
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F30/00—Computer-aided design [CAD]
- G06F30/10—Geometric CAD
- G06F30/17—Mechanical parametric or variational design
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
- G06Q30/0601—Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
- G06Q30/0603—Catalogue ordering
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q50/00—Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
- G06Q50/08—Construction
Definitions
- AEC Industry the “AEC Industry”
- architects, engineers, and contractors the “AEC Industry”
- AEC Industry companies need to insure that such information and data is accurate.
- AEC Industry companies also need to dramatically reduce the time it takes to develop the requested information and data, as well as the overall project delivery time, at no expense to the quality of the project or the accuracy of the budget estimate.
- One embodiment may comprise a computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and construction project cost estimating and scheduling system (“DMES system”).
- the system comprises a spatial database; means for defining a plurality of parametric objects, each of the parametric objects representing a construction component of at least a portion of a building being modeled and including an interface through which the parametric object communicates information with other ones of the parametric objects; a cost database containing, for each of parametric objects, cost information associated with the parametric object; means for assembling a model of the building utilizing the parametric objects, wherein each of the parametric objects is created in the spatial database; and means for generating in real-time a cost-estimate for the building model based on the cost information associated with the parametric objects as the parametric objects are created in the spatial database.
- DMES system computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and construction project cost estimating and scheduling system
- element refers to an object that, when placed in the spatial database, represents a construction component of the structure being modeled and “massing element” refers to an object that has the same properties as an element, but can additionally place instances of other elements and massing elements into the spatial database.
- massing elements Typical programming code included in massing elements to enable them to place instances of other elements and massing elements in the database is set forth in Appendix A hereto.
- objects that are defined as “massing elements” may be capable of directly creating instances of other objects and positioning them accurately in the building model, and passing data to and from these instances.
- each of the objects also includes programming code that defines a graphical user interface, in the form of a dialog box, to the object that is displayed for enabling a user to create an instance of the object in the database.
- dialog boxes allow data to be entered directly into a current instance of the object for use in the design of the building model.
- an Interview massing element is manually placed in the spatial database, at which point its dialog box is displayed and the client's high-level requirements for the project are entered using the dialog box, then the automatic assembly process is run to create the building model. Additionally, manually placing a lower tier element into the database causes its dialog box to be displayed, allowing the user to control its configuration directly by inputting the desired parameters. Manually interfacing with lower tier elements and massing elements through their respective dialog boxes allows design requirements for those elements to be stored in external data files for use by the automated building assembly process when it is run.
- the assembly process is initiated and run by executing the DMES system.
- the Interview massing element assimilates the data input thereto via its dialog box and creates an instance of a first massing element in the second tier of the hierarchy and passes it appropriate design data.
- data may also be passed to the element via its own individual dialog box.
- the second tier massing element in turn creates instances of lower tier elements and massing elements and passes them appropriate design data and so on.
- the Interview massing element creates an instance of the next massing element in the second tier of the hierarchy and the above-described process is repeated for that branch and for each subsequent branch in sequential order.
- the initial method with the customer is to place an instance of the Interview massing element and input various high-level choices into its dialog, then run the DMES system on that high-level information only. This causes a building to be assembled based on those high-level design decisions, and all of the other choices in the lower elements and massing elements in the hierarchy use their default (best practice) values.
- the second method includes an initial (optional) pre-pass, which involves placing individual instances of some or all of the elements and massing elements in the hierarchy, and inputting more detailed design decisions into their respective dialogs, and having that lower level detailed information saved in external data files for use by the DMES system when it is run.
- activity data is automatically input into the elements by the massing elements as the building model is being assembled.
- the massing elements also automatically write the activity data to a set of external data files, which in turn are transferred into a scheduling system to automatically generate a schedule. If the schedule is subsequently amended, the scheduling system generates revised activity data sheets, which when read in by the DMES system automatically update the activity scheduling data in the building model.
- This automatic DMES process encapsulates the knowledge and expertise of the designers and engineers, and the rules and codes of the construction industry specialists and regulatory bodies. It accepts the design requirements of the building owner, or customer, then automatically generates the appropriate building design in the form of a coordinated building model and generates the coordinated design documents necessary to construct the building.
- This automatic process is many thousands of times faster than the traditional methods. Such a dramatic decrease in production time brings with it huge reductions in cost by removing the need for teams of designers, engineers, estimators, drafters and managers, while delivering a more accurately coordinated set of design and production documents.
- the DMES system is capable of using fixed, non-parametric graphical objects as components of the building model while gathering useful information from them.
- a parametric massing element referred to as a grouping massing element, that has the ability to assemble any single instance or grouped instances of elements.
- Each such massing element assembled in the model contains the names of the element or elements it in turn has assembled in the model.
- This massing element also contains functions that store specific information about the various elements it may be assembling, along with functionality and calculations associated with those elements.
- the grouping massing element therefore contains the parametric behavior required of the elements it assembles in the model, and those elements can therefore either be parametric or fixed, non-parametric graphical elements.
- non-parametric graphical elements may be transferred into the database of the DMES system from traditional CAD systems and those elements can be added to the element hierarchy used to assemble the building model.
- the high-level functionality can be added to these non-parametric elements when they are automatically assembled into the building model.
- the DMES system is capable of detecting physical clashes between various components of the building model as the model is being automatically assembled and automatically redesign the model to relocate the affected component(s) to avoid the clash.
- the DMES system of the present disclosure performs clash detection, or interference checking, by cross-checking the location and extents of a current instance of an object against only those other existing instances in the model, i.e., the spatial database, and adjusting its position if necessary before assembling it into the model.
- This automatic clash detection is part of the assembly code included in each massing element and each element uses its own specific functions to determine the parameters of a clash and the rules by which to reposition the instance. This process has a small incremental impact on the speed of the assembly process, but completely removes the need for a series of long clash detection exercises after the model is complete.
- the steel reinforcement bar, or “rebar”, system i.e., the reinforcing steel and size of each girder, beam, joist and pier, will be automatically designed by the DMES system.
- the DMES system calculates the load area of each structural member and applies the live loads, dead loads, point loads and any other load within that area to that member. The deflections, shears, and moments induced by these loads and the effects of loads on adjacent bays up to two spans are computed according to accepted engineering practice. From these computations, the member size and reinforcing steel size, spacing, configuration and location are determined.
- the foregoing information may be electronically transmitted to a reinforcing steel supplier, thus enabling the fabrication process to begin immediately without awaiting final approval of the shop drawings, which can take several months, as is typically the case. Should the geometry of the building change, the above-described procedure is repeated and the new design is generated.
- the detailed design information may be entered into the DMES system via a manual graphical design interface, instead of through the element and massing element dialogs boxes, thus facilitating use of the DMES system by architects and engineers, who will typically be more comfortable with sketching their designs into the DMES system rather than defining their designs by typing data into a multitude of dialog boxes and their input fields.
- the manual graphical design interface consists of a set of graphical tools which allow the designer to draw shapes and drag and drop symbols to represent the desired design layouts and configurations for things like building shape, room layouts and stair, elevator and restroom positioning.
- the data gathered by the manual graphical design interface is stored in external data files for use by the elements and massing elements when the DMES system is run.
- a technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the speed and accuracy with which it delivers high quality information to members of the project team and to the client when required.
- Another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the ability of the DMES system to use fixed, non-parametric graphical objects as components of the building model.
- Another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the ability of the DMES system to perform clash detection, or interference checking, as the building model is being assembled and to automatically redesign the model to relocate the affected components and avoid a detected clash.
- Another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that it generates an accurate, full-sized building model in a computer by automatically assembling proprietary parametric objects encompassing generally available industry information into a coordinated, spatial database.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that it enables the generation of any and all accurate coordinated design and construction drawings, details, specifications, shop drawings, cost estimates, and schedules for the project directly from the automatically assembled building model.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that different data sets for implementing multiple design configurations may be input to the system along with incremental steps by which they are to vary. Assembly of all of the resultant building models occurs automatically in sequence such that they can be compared and the optimum building model selected. This process is referred to as “rattling the box” and enables multiple designs to be compared and evaluated and the optimum design to be selected therefrom.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the reduction in building delivery times resulting from the speedier production of the requisite documents, as well as the elimination of the many on-site redesign issues that typically occur during the construction of a building due to poorly coordinated information being generated at the design document stage.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the increase in quality achieved in the design documents due in part to the guaranteed coordination of the information, as well as the time reduction and automation in the document production process, which enables many more drawings and details to be produced than would typically be feasible.
- This array of extra information helps deliver a far more complete document set, which in turn enables more efficient management of the construction process.
- Still another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is its ability to automatically generate a fully coordinated building design by encapsulating the knowledge and expertise of the designers and engineers, and the rules and codes of the construction industry specialists and regulatory bodies.
- Still another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that the detailed design information may be entered into the DMES system via a manual graphical design interface, instead of through the element and massing element dialogs boxes, thus facilitating use of the DMES system by architects and engineers, who will typically be more comfortable with sketching their designs into the DMES system rather than typing definition data into a multitude of dialog boxes and their input fields.
- a further technical advantage achieved with the disclosure that, once the building configuration is determined, the rebar system is automatically designed by the DMES system.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a computer environment for implementing a DMES system embodying features of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 1 a is a flowchart of the operation of one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 1 b illustrates an Interview dialog of the DMES system of FIG. 1 for enabling a user to specify various parameters for a building to be designed and modeled.
- FIG. 2 a illustrates an assembly hierarchy in accordance with the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 2 b - 2 e illustrate values passed between selected elements of the assembly hierarchy of FIG. 2 a.
- FIG. 2 f is a chart illustrating the data passed between an element in a first tier of the assembly hierarchy of FIG. 2 a and elements in a second tier thereof.
- FIGS. 2 g - 2 k are a table of the functions performed by elements including the elements of the assembly hierarchy of FIG. 2 a.
- FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the design process implemented using the DMES system of FIG. 1 .
- FIGS. 4 a - 4 d illustrate Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog boxes of the DMES system of FIG. 1 for enabling a user to specify the building shape and grid layout of a building to be designed and modeled.
- FIG. 4 e is a grid layout plan view showing the layout of the grid and outline of the building per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes of FIGS. 4 a - 4 d.
- FIGS. 4 f - 4 i illustrate Structure dialog boxes of the DMES system of FIG. 1 for enabling a user to specify design loads in connection with the building to be designed and modeled.
- FIG. 4 j illustrates a first floor plan view showing the layout of the building at the first floor level per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes of FIGS. 4 f - 4 i.
- FIG. 4 k illustrates a typical floor plan view showing the layout of the building at a typical floor level per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes of FIGS. 4 f - 4 i.
- FIG. 4 l illustrates a roof plan view showing the layout of the building at the roof level per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes of FIGS. 4 f - 4 i.
- FIGS. 4 m and 4 n respectively illustrate front and end elevation views showing the layout of the building structure per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes of FIGS. 4 f - 4 i.
- FIG. 4 o illustrates a perspective view showing the of the building structure per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes of FIGS. 4 f - 4 i.
- FIGS. 5 a - 5 l illustrate various stages of the assembly of a building model as presented on a computer display using the DMES system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 a is a flowchart of the operation of a “rattle the box” function of the DMES system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 b is a graph generated using the “rattle the box” function of the DMES system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 1 illustrates a system block diagram of a computer environment 100 for implementing the present disclosure.
- the environment 100 comprises a single computer, for example, a desktop PC, a laptop PC, or a Unix workstation.
- the disclosure may be implemented on a network of such computers, in which case the environment 100 comprises a server and a plurality of computers connected thereto in a conventional fashion via network connections.
- the environment 100 comprises a single computer. As shown in FIG.
- a processor 102 for implementing a plurality of systems including an object-oriented parametric building modeler (“OOPBM”) system 108 , a design, modeling, estimation, and scheduling (“DMES”) system 110 , a cost estimating system 112 , and a scheduling system 114 , is stored on a hard drive (not shown) of the computer 100 .
- OOPBM object-oriented parametric building modeler
- DMES design, modeling, estimation, and scheduling
- 112 cost estimating system
- a scheduling system 114 is stored on a hard drive (not shown) of the computer 100 .
- the software for implementing the systems 108 , 110 , 112 , and 114 will be stored on a server or equivalent thereof for access and execution by the various computers connected thereto.
- the software for implementing the systems 108 , 110 , 112 , and 114 may be stored on a web server or the like to enable Internet access to and use of the disclosure described herein.
- the OOPBM system 108 is implemented using Pro/REFLEX®, commercially available from Parametric Technology Corporation, of Waltham, Mass.
- the cost estimating system 112 is implemented using Ice 2000 , commercially available from MC2 Management Computer Controls, Inc.
- the scheduling system 114 is implemented using SureTrak Project Management 2.0, commercially available from Primavera. Because the system 108 , 112 , and 114 , are implemented using commercially available software, the operation thereof will not be described in detail other than as necessary to impart a complete understanding of the present disclosure.
- the composition and operation of the DMES system 112 which embodies the essence of the present disclosure, will be the focus of this document and will be described in greater detail below.
- the OOPBM system 108 comprises a two-dimensional and three-dimensional parametric object-oriented modeler with its own proprietary spatial database 118 .
- the system 108 enables graphical and non-graphical parametric objects to be defined using an Application Programmer's Interface (“API”) 120 associated therewith.
- API Application Programmer's Interface
- a graphical interface to the system 108 that enables libraries of these parametric objects to be placed into the database 118 and individual instances of the objects to be placed, or “instantiated” at accurate three-dimensional locations and orientations in the spatial database to assemble a dimensionally accurate building model.
- the system 108 then enables these groups of instantiated objects to be viewed in two- or three-dimensional views and coordinated drawings, color renderings, and movies to be generated from the database 118 .
- the DMES system 110 includes a plurality of objects 122 comprising elements and massing elements described in detail below with reference to FIG. 2 a and developed using the API 120 .
- Each of the objects 122 includes an internal interface through which it communicates with other objects in the hierarchy and a set of internal functions and variables that contain formulas and values that are calculated and assigned when the object is instantiated in the database 118 .
- These formulas and values encapsulate the knowledge and expertise of the industry's designers, engineers, specialists, manufacturers, city building codes and regulations, and combine to create an expert system for the design and construction of a building. Exemplary code segments for encapsulating such information are set forth in Appendices B and C hereto.
- the code segment set forth in Appendix B is incorporated into a Structural massing element ( FIG. 2 a ) and calculates the necessary girder reinforcements
- the code segment set forth in Appendix C is incorporated into a HVAC Tables element ( FIG. 2 a ) and reads a glass solar gain external file associated with that element and creates a table from the data contained therein.
- the API source code in the objects 122 is cross-compiled into dynamic link libraries (“DLLs”) that link directly with executable code of the DMES system 110 to create classes in the database 118 . They are organized in groups related to the various subsets of a construction project (applications), and ordered in an assembly hierarchy 200 ( FIG. 2 a ) that forms a logical sequence for the assembly of a building model.
- DLLs dynamic link libraries
- the objects 122 When instantiated in the database 118 , the objects 122 automatically display appropriate graphical representations from different view points to produce two- and three-dimensional views of the resultant building model. Additionally, when instantiated in the database 118 , the internal interfaces of the objects 122 enable them to pass data between one another, and their internal functionality allows them to execute core functionalities of the database and internal functions of other objects in the model.
- objects 122 that are defined as “massing elements” are capable of directly creating instances of other objects, positioning them accurately in the building model, and passing data to and from these instances.
- Each of the objects 122 also includes programming code that defines a graphical user interface, in the form of a dialog box, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 a - 4 d and 4 f - 4 i , to the object that is displayed when a user creates an instance of the object in the database 118 .
- dialog boxes allow data to be entered directly into a current instance of the object for use in the design of the building model when the automatic assembly process is run.
- any massing element in the database 118 allows it to be manipulated through its dialog box to input new variable values and executed to automatically place instances of the objects below it in the assembly hierarchy 200 ( FIG. 2 a ). As it places these instances, a massing element may pass newly calculated values for the predetermined variables to them and execute their internal functions to instruct them to carry out their automatic tasks.
- the cost estimating system 112 comprises a singular database that contains up-do-date local and regional unit cost information to be associated with itemized cost code information being passed from individual instantiated objects, or elements.
- the link association is an automated import routine, which parses an output data file mapping specific item code numbers to their respective unit costs producing an estimate database 123 .
- the estimate database 123 filters and sorts all fields sequentially to produce a compiled estimate.
- a report generator displays and formats the compiled estimate in CSI divisional sequence or user-defined layouts.
- the estimate database 123 is designed such that the cost data contained therein may be periodically updated either automatically or manually via local or remote access thereto.
- the cost data contained therein may be periodically updated either automatically or manually via local or remote access thereto.
- one or more authorized individuals to upload updated cost data to the database 123 on the web server.
- one or more authorized individuals to download such updated cost data to the database 123 stored on a computer connected to a network server or to manually update the data by directly accessing the database and changing selected data.
- the scheduling system 114 comprises a graphical scheduling database 124 that generates graphs and charts containing bars, which represent each of the construction activities for the building project. These activities incorporate dates, labor requirements, and sequencing for construction, assembly, and installation of the components and equipment of the building. Having assigned all of the activities relevant to a specific project and defined start dates, duration, and relationships of these activities, the system 114 automatically determines the critical path activities to minimize the overall project duration.
- the OOPBM system 108 described above enables all of the elements assembled into a building model in its database 118 to be assigned activity names and start and end dates for their construction or installation. As will be described below, the activity data is automatically input into the elements by the massing elements as the building model is being assembled.
- the massing elements also automatically write the activity data to a set of external data files, which in turn are transferred into the scheduling system 114 to automatically generate a schedule.
- scheduling data is accumulated and passed to an Interview massing element 201 , which writes a schedule transfer data file 210 b to pass the data to the scheduling system 114 for production of a suitably-formatted schedule. If the schedule is subsequently amended, the scheduling system 114 generates revised activity data files that, when read in by the DMES system 110 , automatically update the activity scheduling data in the building model.
- the database 124 it would be beneficial for the database 124 to contain data for generating maintenance, as well as construction, schedules to be used in maintaining the building after it is constructed according to the building model.
- the OOPBM system 108 also has the ability to dynamically assemble and disassemble the building model by the scheduled construction sequence using the activity start and end dates stored in the instances of its component elements. This dynamic process therefore allows display of the construction state of the actual building project on any specific date.
- step 150 execution begins in step 150 in which the only element in a first tier of the assembly hierarchy 200 ( FIG. 2 a ), which is an Interview massing element 201 , is manually placed in the database 118 .
- step 151 the client's high-level requirements for the project are entered via a dialog box associated with the Interview massing element, as illustrated in FIG. 1 b .
- manually placing the Interview massing element causes its dialog box ( FIG. 1 b ) to be displayed, thus enabling the user to select which of the other elements the user wants the Interview massing element to place automatically.
- the tabs on the Interview dialog box enable the user to input some of the high-level data relevant to each of the selected elements, which data is passed to those elements as they are placed during the assembly process.
- step 152 manually placing a lower tier element into the database 118 causes its dialog box to be displayed (see, e.g., FIGS. 4 a - 4 d and 4 f - 4 i ) (step 152 ), allowing the user to control its configuration directly by inputting the desired parameters (step 154 ) and have these parameters stored in data files for use by the automatic assembly process when it is run.
- the element is a massing element
- the user can also input the desired parameters for elements below the current element in the assembly hierarchy 200 ( FIG. 2 a ) and the massing element will appropriately place those elements automatically.
- the initial method with the customer is to place an instance of the Interview massing element and input various high-level choices into its dialog, then run the DMES system on that high-level information only. This causes a building to be assembled based on those high-level design decisions, and all of the other choices in the lower elements and massing elements in the hierarchy use their default (best practice) values.
- the second method includes an initial (optional) pre-pass, which involves placing individual instances of some or all of the elements and massing elements in the hierarchy, and inputting more detailed design decisions into their respective dialogs, and having that lower level detailed information saved in external data files for use by the DMES system when it is run.
- the assembly hierarchy 200 comprises a plurality of elements for implementing the DMES system 110 .
- elements in each tier of the hierarchy 200 pass values to and receive values from elements in the immediately preceding and the immediately succeeding tier.
- the first tier includes an Interview massing element 201 , which passes values to and receives values from an Interview Estimate element 202 a ′, a Building Shape massing element 202 a , a Core Zone massing element 202 b , a Cladding massing element 202 c , a Room massing element 202 d , a Light Zone massing element 202 e , an HVAC massing element 202 f , an Electrical massing element 202 f , and a Quantity element 202 g , all of which are located in the second tier.
- an Interview massing element 201 which passes values to and receives values from an Interview Estimate element 202 a ′, a Building Shape massing element 202 a , a Core Zone massing element 202 b , a Cladding massing element 202 c , a Room massing element 202 d , a Light Zone massing element 202 e , an HVAC massing element 202 f , an Electrical massing element
- the elements 202 a - 202 f in the second tier pass values to and receive values from a Grid Layout element 204 a , a Structural massing element 204 b , a Core massing element 204 c , a Curtainwall massing element 204 d , a Precast massing element 204 e , a Room element 204 f , a Light massing element 204 g , an HVAC Tables element 204 h , an HVAC Area element 204 i , an HVAC Peak element 204 j , an HVAC External VAV element 204 k , an HVAC Corner VAV element 204 l , and an Electrical Devices element 204 m , all of which are in the third tier.
- the elements 204 b - 204 g in the third tier pass values to and receive values from a Pier, Gradebeam element 204 a , an Elevator massing element 206 b , a Room element 206 c , a Curtainwall element 206 d , a Precast element 206 e , a second Electrical Devices element 206 f , a Door element 206 a , and a Light element 206 h , all of which are in a fourth tier.
- the several elements of the fourth tier i.e., elements 206 b , 206 c , 206 e , and 206 f , pass values to and receive values from an Elevator element 208 a , a third Electrical Devices element 208 b , a Light element 208 c , a Door element 208 d , an Entrance element 208 e , and a Canopy element 208 f , all of which are in a fifth tier.
- an assembly process is initiated and run by executing the DMES system 110 .
- the Interview massing element 201 assimilates the data input thereto via its dialog box ( FIG. 1 b ) and creates an instance of a first element in the second tier of the hierarchy, and passes it appropriate design data.
- data may also be passed to the element 202 a ′ via its own individual dialog box.
- the second tier massing element in turn creates instances of lower tier elements and massing elements, if any, and passes them appropriate design data and so on.
- the Interview massing element creates an instance of the next massing element in the second tier of the hierarchy and the above-described process is repeated for that branch and for each subsequent branch in sequential order.
- each element is placed in the database 118 by one of the massing elements, data is passed to it by the massing element.
- the massing element executes its internal function(s), including placing instances of other elements, where appropriate, and gets back values of specific variables in that element for use in other elements in the hierarchy.
- design information is passed from one element to the next in the building model as it is being assembled by the massing elements. This process causes each element to design itself based on the new data it receives when it is placed in the database and to pass on the results of its calculations to the element(s) in the next tier of the hierarchy.
- the Interview massing element 201 first creates an instance of the Interview Estimate element 202 a ′ and passes the appropriate data thereto. After the Interview massing element 201 receives the requisite data back from the Interview Estimate element 202 a ′, it creates an instance of the Building Shape massing element 202 a and passes data thereto. The Building Shape massing element 202 a then creates an instance of the Grid Layout element 204 a and passes the appropriate data thereto, awaits the return of data therefrom, and then creates an instance of the Structural massing element 204 b and passes the appropriate data thereto.
- the Structural massing element 204 b creates an instance of the Pier/Gradebeam element 206 a , passes the appropriate data thereto and awaits the return of data therefrom, at which point it returns data to the Building Shape element 202 a .
- the Building Shape element 202 a returns the requisite data to the Interview Massing element 201 , and the Interview Massing element creates an instance of the Core Zone massing element 202 b.
- the activity data is automatically input into the elements by the massing elements above them in the assembly hierarchy as the building model is being assembled.
- the massing elements also automatically write the activity data to a set of external data files, which in turn are transferred into the scheduling system 114 to automatically generate a schedule. If the schedule is subsequently amended, the scheduling system 114 generates revised activity data sheets, which when read in by the DMES system 110 automatically update the activity scheduling data in the building model (step 158 ).
- the building model As the building model is being assembled in the database 118 , it is possible to watch its progress in dynamic two- and three-dimensional views on a computer monitor. It is also possible to view on the computer monitor drawings in a variety of formats and color renderings generated in the database and the estimate sheets and schedules developed by the other systems (step 160 ). Additionally, as the building model is being assembled in the database 118 , it is possible to watch its progress in dynamic two- and three-dimensional views 178 on a computer display 179 .
- each element and massing element has built into it functionality that writes parameters input thereto via the dialog boxes to external data file(s), represented in FIG. 2 a by data files 220 , when this option is selected via the dialog box.
- the purpose of these data files is to store design parameters for a specific building design required for use by the automatic assembly process when it is run.
- each element and massing element has built into it functionality that reads the appropriate data file(s) 22 during the automatic assembly process ( FIG. 1 a , step 155 ). This enables detailed design decisions to be made up front, using the natural graphical interface of each element and its corresponding dialog box, which get stored in the external data files for use when the building is being assembled.
- the hierarchy 200 shown in FIG. 2 a is for purposes of illustration only and, for that reason, does not include all of the elements, massing elements, and data files that might be used in implementing the present disclosure.
- the completed building model created in the database 118 contains all of the detailed two- and three-dimensional information necessary to generate a complete set of coordinated construction documents, including full-color photo-realistic renderings and movies.
- the Interview massing element 201 also contains the functionality to allow variable building constraints to be input through its dialog, so that it then automatically assembles many buildings with varying parameters for design and/or cost comparison, for purposes to be described in greater detail below.
- FIGS. 2 b - 2 e illustrate values passed between the component elements of a selected branch, in this case, the third, or “Core Zone” branch, of the assembly hierarchy 200 . It should be recognized that this branch is executed immediately after execution of the “Building Shape” branch, headed by the Building Shape massing element 202 a , and immediately prior to execution of the “Cladding” branch, headed by the Cladding massing element 202 b .
- FIG. 2 b illustrates the values passed between the Interview massing element 201 and the Core Zone massing element 202 b .
- the Interview massing element 201 gathers some basic information regarding the project and allows the user to change some high-level parameters of the building design and then controls the assembly hierarchy to produce a full-scale, three-dimensional model of the building, complete with drawings, specifications cost estimation, and schedule.
- FIG. 2 c illustrates the values passed between the Core Zone element 202 b and the Core massing element 204 c .
- the Core Zone element 202 b determines the building zones by defining the zones of the building into the following classes: Bulk, Link, Leg, and Corner. These various zones are then passed to the Core massing element 204 c , which will then place the appropriate rooms for each zone in the zone based on code rules and best practice.
- the Core massing element 204 c is automatically placed by the Core Zone element 202 b , which passes it all the necessary building design parameters and then triggers it to start sizing and placing the elevators and rooms in the core area.
- FIGS. 2 d and 2 e respectively illustrate the values passed between the Core massing element 204 c and the Elevator massing element 206 b and between the Elevator massing element and the Elevator element 208 a .
- the Elevator massing element 204 c places the number of elevators required for each core zone based on industry standard, traffic analysis calculations. It also designs and draws the shaft, pit, and motor room per industry practices and rules for core layout and elevator efficiencies.
- FIG. 2 f illustrates the type of information provided to and received from each of the second tier elements 202 a - 202 g by the Interview massing element 201 , it being understood that some of the information passed between the Interview massing element and second tier elements may flow down to or up from lower tier elements.
- FIGS. 2 g - 2 k collectively comprise a table including a more exhaustive list of the elements and massing elements of the DMES system 110 , grouped according to type, as well as a description of the function of each.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a process flow diagram for developing one or more building models using the DMES system 110 .
- Execution begins in step 300 responsive to a request from a client to develop a project scenario.
- parameters for the project are defined and input to the DMES system 110 as described below. Examples of project parameters include, but are not limited to, number of floors, total gross area, floor plate area, type of structure, and cladding systems.
- execution proceeds to step 302 , in which a DMES process, implemented via the DMES system 110 , is initiated. As described herein, and as generally shown and described with reference to FIG.
- the DMES process of step 302 is a continual feedback loop that produces a variety of building models and associated project scenarios, including cost estimates and construction schedules, intended to distill the vision of the client into a comprehensive solution, including a building model, cost estimate, and construction schedule, which is submitted to the client for design, budget, and schedule review and approval (step 304 ) and then forwarded to the appropriate authorities for code review and permitting purposes (step 306 ).
- the DMES process results in the development of construction documentation, including construction drawings, details, specifications, renderings, movie paths, and shop drawings, itemized budgets, and detailed construction schedules, which are simultaneously produced for each building model.
- step 308 city building code interpretation refinement scenarios, constrained by the defined project parameters, are initiated and submitted to the DMES process (step 302 ).
- step 302 Once a building model and associated project scenario have been developed that fulfill the client's vision and with respect to which all necessary permits have been obtained, the building model and project scenario are submitted to the client for final approval (step 310 ). If approved, execution proceeds to step 312 , construction of the project is undertaken and, upon inspection, the project is commissioned in step 314 . If changing market or other conditions result in the client's not granting final approval in step 310 , execution returns to step 302 .
- FIGS. 4 a - 4 d a Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box illustrated in FIGS. 4 a - 4 d enables the user to specify specific information about the building shape and grid layout for the building. It will be recognized that the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box is associated with the Building shape element 202 a ( FIG. 2 a ) and is used to input data thereto. As shown in FIG. 4 a , using an Info tab dialog box 402 , the user can specify the floor plate area, number of floors, and rotation for the structure by making entries in the appropriate fields.
- the user can specify more specific items as they pertain to the structure, such as girder direction, girder maximum spans, exterior cladding spans, column set back from face of building, and the bay locations/widths for the building cores.
- the element will display the building configuration as shown in FIG. 4 e.
- the user can select display options, such as showing the grid layouts, column locations, girder locations, building and grid dimensions.
- the user can also have the element calculate the column-to-column bay lengths around the perimeter of the building for the exterior skin by checking the appropriate checkbox.
- the user can assemble the structure, placing all of the slabs, joists, beams, girders, columns, and piers, and then choose to display a complete estimate of the cost of the structure.
- the structure can then be saved as a building option, another building assembled, and the two options compared.
- FIG. 4 b illustrates a Modify tab dialog box 404 .
- the information on the Modify tab dialog box 404 is preassigned.
- a checkbox designated “Change Structure Coordinates/Bays” located at the top of the dialog box 404 .
- the information on the Modify tab dialog box 404 can be changed.
- the user determines how many zones the building is made up of and the rotation of each zone. Once this is determined, the user can assign the column widths, number of bays, and freeze the actual bay lengths in each direction. If the structure is of tilt-up construction, the user can choose not to have the perimeter columns.
- the location of the dimension lines can be changed and the “number of bays” overridden by calculating the minimum number of bays possible by checking the appropriate check boxes near the bottom of the dialog box 404 .
- FIG. 4 c illustrates a Points tab dialog box 406 .
- the information on the Points tab dialog box 406 is preassigned. By checking a checkbox designated “Change Structure Coordinates/Bays” located at the top of the dialog box 406 , the information on the Points tab dialog box 406 can be changed.
- the Points tab dialog box 406 enables a user to specify the X and Y coordinates for each zone shape. The user indicates the zone to be modified in a field designated “Modify Zone #” located near the top of the dialog box 406 and then assign corner points for that zone and the location of the start point as it relates to the global origin of the spatial database 118 .
- FIG. 4 d illustrates a Perimeter tab dialog box 408 .
- the information on the Perimeter tab dialog box 408 is preassigned.
- the Perimeter tab dialog box 408 specifies the X and Y coordinates for the perimeter of the total structure. After all zones have been placed together, these points are the points that make up the exterior of the structure.
- FIG. 4 e is a grid layout plan view showing the layout of the grid with dimensions and the outline of the buildings per the parameters entered using the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box shown in FIGS. 4 a - 4 d and used in the Building Shape element calculations.
- FIGS. 4 f - 4 i a Structure dialog box, illustrated in FIGS. 4 f - 4 i , is very similar to the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box ( FIGS. 4 a - 4 d ). It will be recognized that the Structure dialog box is associated with the Structural massing element 204 b ( FIG. 2 b ) and is used to input data thereto.
- the Info tab dialog box 402 ( FIG. 4 a ) sends its information to the Structure dialog box and causes certain information to be preassigned. As shown in FIG.
- the user can override the preassigned information and can change concrete joist width, maximum pan widths and slab thickness by making entries in the appropriate fields.
- the design loads that are to be used for the live load, partition loads, and skin loads can also be manipulated using the Info tab dialog box 420 .
- FIGS. 4 g and 4 h respectively illustrate a Modify tab dialog box 422 and a Structure tab dialog box 424 , which are similar to the Modify tab dialog box 404 ( FIG. 4 b ) and the Points tab dialog box 406 ( FIG. 4 c ), respectively.
- the user can make changes using these dialog boxes 422 , 424 , that will override the information entered using the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog boxes shown in FIGS. 4 a - 4 d.
- FIG. 4 i illustrates an Openings tab dialog box 426 that is used to locate the openings in the structural slab.
- the user uses the Openings tab dialog box 426 to input the bottom left X and Y coordinates of the opening, as well as the length and width of the opening, and the structure will lay out the joist and beams around the location.
- the Structure element is used in conjunction with the Interview massing element 201 , the location and size of the openings are passed to the Structure element, which then uses the information to design the structure.
- FIG. 4 j illustrates a First Floor Plan View showing the layout of the piers, grade beams, and columns at the first floor level per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown in FIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural element 204 b calculations.
- FIG. 4 k illustrates a Typical Floor Plan View showing the layout of the beams, girders, joist, columns, and openings at a typical floor level per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown in FIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations.
- FIG. 4 l illustrates a Roof Plan View showing the layout of the beams, girders, joist, columns, and openings at a roof level per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown in FIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations.
- FIGS. 4 m and 4 n respectively illustrate a Front Elevation View and an End Elevation View showing the layout of the beams and columns per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown in FIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations.
- FIG. 4 o illustrates a Perspective View showing the layout of the beams and columns per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown in FIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations.
- FIGS. 5 a - 5 l illustrate this process for a three-story building.
- FIG. 5 a is a perspective view of a completed three-story reinforced concrete structural frame consisting of girder and joist slabs, piers, columns and beams.
- FIGS. 5 b - 5 d illustrate the assembly of precast concrete cladding on the building structure of FIG. 5 a .
- the cladding is assembled around the perimeter of the structural frame floor-by-floor, one bay at a time.
- the cladding consists of spandrel panels, column covers, corner column cover units, and false column covers.
- FIGS. 5 e - 5 h illustrates the addition of a punched window system to the structure of FIG. 5 d .
- the punched window system assembles in openings in the precast cladding system, also floor-by-floor, one bay at a time.
- the punched window system consists of horizontal and vertical mullions with glazed lights and gaskets. Store front entrance doors and associated sidelights and canopies, where appropriate, are assembled in the entrance lobby locations.
- a parapet wall is placed behind the roof precast panels with coping over the assembly at the roof parapet.
- FIGS. 5 i - 5 l respectively show perspective, rear elevation, side elevation, and front elevational views of the completed building showing precast and glazing cladding to structure.
- the DMES system is capable of using fixed, non-parametric graphical objects as components of the building model while gathering useful information from them.
- a parametric massing element referred to as a grouping massing element
- Each grouping massing element assembled in the model contains the names of the element or elements it in turn has assembled in the model.
- the grouping massing element also contains functions that store specific information about the various elements it may be assembling, along with functionality and calculations associated with those elements.
- the grouping massing element therefore contains the parametric behavior required of the elements it assembles in the model, and those elements can therefore either be parametric or use fixed, non-parametric graphical elements.
- non-parametric graphical elements may be transferred into the database of the DMES system 110 from traditional CAD systems and those elements can be added to the element hierarchy used to assemble the building model.
- the high-level functionality can be added to these non-parametric elements when they are automatically assembled into the building model.
- the steel reinforcement bar, or “rebar”, system i.e., the reinforcing steel and size of each girder, beam, joist and pier, will be automatically designed by the DMES system 110 .
- the live load requirements are sent to the Structural massing element 204 b ( FIG. 2 a ) and are based on the building design.
- the Structural massing element 204 b then calculates the load area of each structural member and applies the live loads, dead loads, point loads and any other load within that area to that member.
- the deflections, shears, and moments induced by these loads and the effects of loads on adjacent bays up to two spans are computed according to accepted engineering practice. From these computations, the member size and reinforcing steel size, spacing, configuration and location are determined. Any changes made to the design parameters will result in a redesign of the building model all the way down to the size, spacing, configuration and location of the reinforcing steel.
- the DMES system 110 would design a end span beam with the following attributes: width 2′6′′; depth 203 ⁇ 4′′; reinforcing steel bottom 2-#11's; top east 6-#4's; top west 7-#11's; and #4 stirrups at 18′′ on center. If it was determined that the live load needed to increase to 80 lb/sf, the DMES system would redesign the beam to 3′0′′ wide and increase the reinforcing steel to: bottom 3-#11's; top east 4-#5's; top west 8-#11's; and #4 stirrups at 14′′ on center.
- the foregoing information be electronically transmitted to a reinforcing steel supplier, thus enabling the fabrication process to begin immediately without awaiting final approval of the shop drawings, which can take several months, as is typically the case. Should the geometry of the building change, the above procedure is repeated and the new design is generated.
- the DMES system is capable of detecting physical clashes between various components of the building model as the model is being automatically assembled and automatically redesign the model to relocate the affected component(s) to avoid the clash.
- the DMES system of the present disclosure performs clash detection, or interference checking, by cross checking the location and extents of the current instance against only those other existing instances in the model and adjusting its position if necessary before assembling it into the model.
- This automatic clash detection is part of the assembly process in each massing element and each element uses its own specific functions to determine the parameters of a clash and the rules by which to reposition the instance. This process has a small incremental impact on the speed of the assembly process, but completely removes the need for a series of long clash detection exercises after the model is complete.
- An exemplary code block for performing such clash detection is set forth in Appendix D hereto.
- the function of this code block is to compare the position of the current light fixture against structural columns in the rectangular grid. The function is called from within the element assembly code block of the Light massing element 204 g ( FIG. 2 a ). The return values tell the assembly code of the Light massing element 204 g how to place the light fixture-reposition up, reposition down, reposition left, reposition right, do not place at all, or ignore.
- This assembly process runs in a memory device 180 of the computer on which the DMES system is installed, thus removing the need to continually redraw the graphics on the monitor and increasing exponentially the speed with which assembly can be accomplished.
- the process instead displays a dynamic graphical representation of the cost estimate data generated with respect to each of the resultant building models to enable comparisons to be made therebetween.
- the greater the number of design parameters varied in a “rattle the box” process the more complex the interaction of the various cost estimate curves produced. This process not only allows many more design evaluations and comparisons to be carried out than by traditional methods, it also delivers optimized maxima and minima that would be impossible to predict by currently available methods.
- the “rattling the box” process therefore allows for the accurate evaluation and comparison of cost estimate data associated with many different building models through dynamic iteration of one or more selected design parameters to determine the optimum design.
- the “rattle the box” process is implemented by wrapping the assembly functionality in the Interview massing element 202 ( FIG. 2 a ) in a series of nested loops, each of which in turn increments one or more selected parameters. This forces the Interview massing element to assembles many building models, one after the other, with a variance of one or more of the design parameters in each iteration.
- FIG. 6 a is a flowchart illustrating the above-described process of rattling the box with respect to a selected parameter.
- the initial values for all parameters are input to the DMES system 110 as described above.
- a parameter to be incrementally changed is selected.
- Exemplary parameters include, but are not limited to, the angle of the building on the building site, the length-to-width ratio of the building, the number of floors, or the floor-to-floor height. Indeed, any one (or more) of the parameters input to the DMES system 110 may be selected.
- the selected parameter is the angle of the building on the building site and the initial value of the selected parameter is 0 degrees.
- step 504 an increment value, e.g., 10 degrees, is selected.
- step 506 a stop value for the selected parameter, e.g., 180 degrees, is selected.
- step 508 the building model is assembled using the initial parameter values.
- step 510 the building model is saved.
- step 512 the value of the selected parameter is incremented by the selected increment value. Using the above-noted example, the first time step 512 is executed, the value of the selected parameter would be incremented from 0 degrees to 10 degrees.
- step 514 the building model is reassembled using the new value for the selected parameter.
- step 516 the new building model is saved.
- step 518 a determination is made whether the current value of the selected parameter is equal to the selected stop value. Again, using the above-noted example, the first time step 518 is executed, the current value of the selected parameter is 10 degrees, which is not equal to the selected stop value of 180 degrees. Accordingly, execution returns to step 512 .
- step 518 If in step 518 it is determined that the current value of the selected parameter is equal to (or exceeds) the selected stop value, execution proceeds to step 520 , in which the results are output, preferably in the form of a graph to enable a user quickly and easily to determine the cost maxima and minima.
- FIG. 6 a illustrates a process in which only one parameter is selected and incremented, but that nested loops could be used to select any number of parameters to be incremented and the building model reassembled.
- this code segment is wrapped around the assembly do loop in the Interview massing element 201 .
- the above-noted example specifically increments the rotation of the building on the site while incrementing the plan proportions of the building model while maintaining the building foot plate net area.
- FIG. 6 b illustrates a graph of the results of a “rattle the box” process where a building was rotated on the site by 10 degree increments and the cost thereof recalculated (i.e., the building model reassembled in the memory device 180 at each position.
- the detailed design information may be entered into the DMES system via a manual graphical design interface, instead of through the element and massing element dialogs boxes, thus facilitating use of the DMES system by architects and engineers, who will typically be more comfortable with sketching their designs into the DMES system rather than typing data defining their designs into a multitude of dialog boxes and their input fields.
- the manual graphical design interface consists of a set of graphical tools which allow the designer to draw shapes and drag and drop symbols to represent the desired design layouts and configurations for things like building shape, room layouts and stair, elevator and restroom positioning.
- the data gathered by the manual graphical design interface is stored in external data files for use by the elements and massing elements when the DMES system is run.
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/945,135, filed on Sep. 20, 2004, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,859,768, filed on Mar. 3, 2000.
- Demands for more expedient, more accurate design, cost, and schedule responses to clients' requests for new building and renovation work prompted the development of the current disclosure. Traditionally, architects, engineers, and contractors (the “AEC Industry”) are pressured to respond ever more quickly to clients' requests for building designs, cost estimates, and construction schedules in connection with construction projects. In addition to needing to respond promptly to their clients requests for information and data, AEC Industry companies need to insure that such information and data is accurate. To remain competitive in today's marketplace, AEC Industry companies also need to dramatically reduce the time it takes to develop the requested information and data, as well as the overall project delivery time, at no expense to the quality of the project or the accuracy of the budget estimate.
- Traditional drafting and computer-aided drafting (“CAD”) techniques only serve to disseminate all of the information involved in designing and detailing a construction project and are time-consuming processes that require a high-level of interdisciplinary communication and management between architects, engineers, and contractors. What is missing from traditional design and construction processes is a means to quickly store, manage, and communicate all of the detailed knowledge and professional experience required by the various disciplines involved in the project in order to bring the project to a successful and timely conclusion.
- To bring a suitable level of control and efficiency to the AEC Industry processes, it is imperative to centralize all of the project information and expertise in a single, coordinated database that would allow all of the entities involved in a construction project to instantly access and draw from it to expedite management and coordination of the constantly changing information. Such a database system would also be essential in helping to accurately, quickly, and clearly display and communicate the current design state to the various entities, as well as to the client, in order to facilitate informed responses and decisions.
- Therefore, what is needed is an improved computer-implemented building design and modeling capability.
- One embodiment, accordingly, may comprise a computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and construction project cost estimating and scheduling system (“DMES system”). The system comprises a spatial database; means for defining a plurality of parametric objects, each of the parametric objects representing a construction component of at least a portion of a building being modeled and including an interface through which the parametric object communicates information with other ones of the parametric objects; a cost database containing, for each of parametric objects, cost information associated with the parametric object; means for assembling a model of the building utilizing the parametric objects, wherein each of the parametric objects is created in the spatial database; and means for generating in real-time a cost-estimate for the building model based on the cost information associated with the parametric objects as the parametric objects are created in the spatial database.
- As used herein, “element” refers to an object that, when placed in the spatial database, represents a construction component of the structure being modeled and “massing element” refers to an object that has the same properties as an element, but can additionally place instances of other elements and massing elements into the spatial database. Typical programming code included in massing elements to enable them to place instances of other elements and massing elements in the database is set forth in Appendix A hereto.
- In accordance with still another embodiment, objects that are defined as “massing elements” may be capable of directly creating instances of other objects and positioning them accurately in the building model, and passing data to and from these instances. As previously indicated, each of the objects also includes programming code that defines a graphical user interface, in the form of a dialog box, to the object that is displayed for enabling a user to create an instance of the object in the database. These dialog boxes allow data to be entered directly into a current instance of the object for use in the design of the building model.
- In operation, an Interview massing element is manually placed in the spatial database, at which point its dialog box is displayed and the client's high-level requirements for the project are entered using the dialog box, then the automatic assembly process is run to create the building model. Additionally, manually placing a lower tier element into the database causes its dialog box to be displayed, allowing the user to control its configuration directly by inputting the desired parameters. Manually interfacing with lower tier elements and massing elements through their respective dialog boxes allows design requirements for those elements to be stored in external data files for use by the automated building assembly process when it is run.
- Once the parameters are entered, as described above, the assembly process is initiated and run by executing the DMES system. During the assembly process, the Interview massing element assimilates the data input thereto via its dialog box and creates an instance of a first massing element in the second tier of the hierarchy and passes it appropriate design data. As previously indicated, data may also be passed to the element via its own individual dialog box. The second tier massing element in turn creates instances of lower tier elements and massing elements and passes them appropriate design data and so on. Once the process of passing data to and receiving data from the branch of the hierarchy headed by the first one of the second tier massing elements is complete, the Interview massing element creates an instance of the next massing element in the second tier of the hierarchy and the above-described process is repeated for that branch and for each subsequent branch in sequential order.
- Accordingly, there may be two ways of running the DMES system.
- The initial method with the customer (building owner) is to place an instance of the Interview massing element and input various high-level choices into its dialog, then run the DMES system on that high-level information only. This causes a building to be assembled based on those high-level design decisions, and all of the other choices in the lower elements and massing elements in the hierarchy use their default (best practice) values. The second method includes an initial (optional) pre-pass, which involves placing individual instances of some or all of the elements and massing elements in the hierarchy, and inputting more detailed design decisions into their respective dialogs, and having that lower level detailed information saved in external data files for use by the DMES system when it is run. Then an instance of the Interview massing element is placed, as above, and various high-level choices are input into its dialog and the DMES system is then run based on that high-level information plus all of the design information gathered from the external data files by the elements and massing elements as they are automatically assembled.
- This process continues autonomously until a complete building model has been assembled in the spatial database from the appropriate library elements as constrained by the defined project parameters. As each element is placed by its massing element, its internal functions are executed and it calculates the quantities of components and materials used and the number of man-hours of labor involved in its fabrication and installation. These quantities are passed directly to an Interview Estimate element where they are accumulated and priced for output either as a graphical estimate sheet in the database, or as the content of a transfer data file for passing to the cost estimating and scheduling systems.
- Additionally, activity data is automatically input into the elements by the massing elements as the building model is being assembled. The massing elements also automatically write the activity data to a set of external data files, which in turn are transferred into a scheduling system to automatically generate a schedule. If the schedule is subsequently amended, the scheduling system generates revised activity data sheets, which when read in by the DMES system automatically update the activity scheduling data in the building model.
- As the building model is being assembled in the database, it is possible to watch its progress in dynamic two- and three-dimensional views on a computer monitor. It is also possible to view on the computer monitor drawings and color renderings generated in the database and the estimate sheets and schedules developed by the other systems.
- The result of this complete process is that the design of the building, the communication between the design disciplines, the manual production of the drawings, and the management of the drawing coordination are all replaced by the automatic DMES process. This automatic DMES process encapsulates the knowledge and expertise of the designers and engineers, and the rules and codes of the construction industry specialists and regulatory bodies. It accepts the design requirements of the building owner, or customer, then automatically generates the appropriate building design in the form of a coordinated building model and generates the coordinated design documents necessary to construct the building. This automatic process is many thousands of times faster than the traditional methods. Such a dramatic decrease in production time brings with it huge reductions in cost by removing the need for teams of designers, engineers, estimators, drafters and managers, while delivering a more accurately coordinated set of design and production documents.
- In one aspect, the DMES system is capable of using fixed, non-parametric graphical objects as components of the building model while gathering useful information from them. This is achieved through use of a parametric massing element referred to as a grouping massing element, that has the ability to assemble any single instance or grouped instances of elements. Each such massing element assembled in the model contains the names of the element or elements it in turn has assembled in the model. This massing element also contains functions that store specific information about the various elements it may be assembling, along with functionality and calculations associated with those elements. The grouping massing element therefore contains the parametric behavior required of the elements it assembles in the model, and those elements can therefore either be parametric or fixed, non-parametric graphical elements. The result is that non-parametric graphical elements may be transferred into the database of the DMES system from traditional CAD systems and those elements can be added to the element hierarchy used to assemble the building model. The high-level functionality can be added to these non-parametric elements when they are automatically assembled into the building model.
- In another aspect, the DMES system is capable of detecting physical clashes between various components of the building model as the model is being automatically assembled and automatically redesign the model to relocate the affected component(s) to avoid the clash. In contrast to a conventional CAD tool, which uses software algorithms that scan and sort the locations and extents of all three-dimensional primitive geometries in a building model and compares all of the locations thereof for potential overlaps, the DMES system of the present disclosure performs clash detection, or interference checking, by cross-checking the location and extents of a current instance of an object against only those other existing instances in the model, i.e., the spatial database, and adjusting its position if necessary before assembling it into the model. This automatic clash detection is part of the assembly code included in each massing element and each element uses its own specific functions to determine the parameters of a clash and the rules by which to reposition the instance. This process has a small incremental impact on the speed of the assembly process, but completely removes the need for a series of long clash detection exercises after the model is complete.
- In another aspect, once the building configuration is determined, the steel reinforcement bar, or “rebar”, system, i.e., the reinforcing steel and size of each girder, beam, joist and pier, will be automatically designed by the DMES system. In particular, based on the live load requirements of the building design, the DMES system calculates the load area of each structural member and applies the live loads, dead loads, point loads and any other load within that area to that member. The deflections, shears, and moments induced by these loads and the effects of loads on adjacent bays up to two spans are computed according to accepted engineering practice. From these computations, the member size and reinforcing steel size, spacing, configuration and location are determined. Any changes made to the design parameters will result in a redesign of the building model all the way down to the size, spacing, configuration and location of the reinforcing steel. In a preferred embodiment, the foregoing information may be electronically transmitted to a reinforcing steel supplier, thus enabling the fabrication process to begin immediately without awaiting final approval of the shop drawings, which can take several months, as is typically the case. Should the geometry of the building change, the above-described procedure is repeated and the new design is generated.
- In an alternative embodiment, the detailed design information may be entered into the DMES system via a manual graphical design interface, instead of through the element and massing element dialogs boxes, thus facilitating use of the DMES system by architects and engineers, who will typically be more comfortable with sketching their designs into the DMES system rather than defining their designs by typing data into a multitude of dialog boxes and their input fields. The manual graphical design interface consists of a set of graphical tools which allow the designer to draw shapes and drag and drop symbols to represent the desired design layouts and configurations for things like building shape, room layouts and stair, elevator and restroom positioning. The data gathered by the manual graphical design interface is stored in external data files for use by the elements and massing elements when the DMES system is run.
- A technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the speed and accuracy with which it delivers high quality information to members of the project team and to the client when required.
- Another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the ability of the DMES system to use fixed, non-parametric graphical objects as components of the building model.
- Another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the ability of the DMES system to perform clash detection, or interference checking, as the building model is being assembled and to automatically redesign the model to relocate the affected components and avoid a detected clash.
- Another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that it generates an accurate, full-sized building model in a computer by automatically assembling proprietary parametric objects encompassing generally available industry information into a coordinated, spatial database.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that it enables the generation of any and all accurate coordinated design and construction drawings, details, specifications, shop drawings, cost estimates, and schedules for the project directly from the automatically assembled building model.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that different data sets for implementing multiple design configurations may be input to the system along with incremental steps by which they are to vary. Assembly of all of the resultant building models occurs automatically in sequence such that they can be compared and the optimum building model selected. This process is referred to as “rattling the box” and enables multiple designs to be compared and evaluated and the optimum design to be selected therefrom.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the reduction in building delivery times resulting from the speedier production of the requisite documents, as well as the elimination of the many on-site redesign issues that typically occur during the construction of a building due to poorly coordinated information being generated at the design document stage.
- Yet another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is the increase in quality achieved in the design documents due in part to the guaranteed coordination of the information, as well as the time reduction and automation in the document production process, which enables many more drawings and details to be produced than would typically be feasible. This array of extra information helps deliver a far more complete document set, which in turn enables more efficient management of the construction process.
- Still another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is its ability to automatically generate a fully coordinated building design by encapsulating the knowledge and expertise of the designers and engineers, and the rules and codes of the construction industry specialists and regulatory bodies.
- Still another technical advantage achieved with the disclosure is that the detailed design information may be entered into the DMES system via a manual graphical design interface, instead of through the element and massing element dialogs boxes, thus facilitating use of the DMES system by architects and engineers, who will typically be more comfortable with sketching their designs into the DMES system rather than typing definition data into a multitude of dialog boxes and their input fields.
- A further technical advantage achieved with the disclosure that, once the building configuration is determined, the rebar system is automatically designed by the DMES system.
- It is understood that the preceding embodiments, aspects, and technical advantages are for purposes of illustration only, and may not exist in every implementation of the present disclosure. Furthermore, embodiment, aspects, and technical advantages not illustrated may exist in one or more implementations.
-
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a computer environment for implementing a DMES system embodying features of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 1 a is a flowchart of the operation of one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 1 b illustrates an Interview dialog of the DMES system ofFIG. 1 for enabling a user to specify various parameters for a building to be designed and modeled. -
FIG. 2 a illustrates an assembly hierarchy in accordance with the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 2 b-2 e illustrate values passed between selected elements of the assembly hierarchy ofFIG. 2 a. -
FIG. 2 f is a chart illustrating the data passed between an element in a first tier of the assembly hierarchy ofFIG. 2 a and elements in a second tier thereof. -
FIGS. 2 g-2 k are a table of the functions performed by elements including the elements of the assembly hierarchy ofFIG. 2 a. -
FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the design process implemented using the DMES system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 4 a-4 d illustrate Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog boxes of the DMES system ofFIG. 1 for enabling a user to specify the building shape and grid layout of a building to be designed and modeled. -
FIG. 4 e is a grid layout plan view showing the layout of the grid and outline of the building per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes ofFIGS. 4 a-4 d. -
FIGS. 4 f-4 i illustrate Structure dialog boxes of the DMES system ofFIG. 1 for enabling a user to specify design loads in connection with the building to be designed and modeled. -
FIG. 4 j illustrates a first floor plan view showing the layout of the building at the first floor level per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes ofFIGS. 4 f-4 i. -
FIG. 4 k illustrates a typical floor plan view showing the layout of the building at a typical floor level per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes ofFIGS. 4 f-4 i. -
FIG. 4 l illustrates a roof plan view showing the layout of the building at the roof level per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes ofFIGS. 4 f-4 i. -
FIGS. 4 m and 4 n respectively illustrate front and end elevation views showing the layout of the building structure per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes ofFIGS. 4 f-4 i. -
FIG. 4 o illustrates a perspective view showing the of the building structure per the parameters specified using the dialog boxes ofFIGS. 4 f-4 i. -
FIGS. 5 a-5 l illustrate various stages of the assembly of a building model as presented on a computer display using the DMES system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 a is a flowchart of the operation of a “rattle the box” function of the DMES system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 b is a graph generated using the “rattle the box” function of the DMES system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 1 illustrates a system block diagram of acomputer environment 100 for implementing the present disclosure. In a preferred embodiment, theenvironment 100 comprises a single computer, for example, a desktop PC, a laptop PC, or a Unix workstation. Alternatively, the disclosure may be implemented on a network of such computers, in which case theenvironment 100 comprises a server and a plurality of computers connected thereto in a conventional fashion via network connections. For purposes of illustration, it will be assumed herein that theenvironment 100 comprises a single computer. As shown inFIG. 1 , software executable by aprocessor 102 for implementing a plurality of systems, including an object-oriented parametric building modeler (“OOPBM”)system 108, a design, modeling, estimation, and scheduling (“DMES”)system 110, acost estimating system 112, and ascheduling system 114, is stored on a hard drive (not shown) of thecomputer 100. It will be recognized that, in the case of a network implementation of the present disclosure, the software for implementing thesystems systems - In a preferred embodiment, the
OOPBM system 108 is implemented using Pro/REFLEX®, commercially available from Parametric Technology Corporation, of Waltham, Mass., thecost estimating system 112 is implemented using Ice 2000, commercially available from MC2 Management Computer Controls, Inc., and thescheduling system 114 is implemented using SureTrak Project Management 2.0, commercially available from Primavera. Because thesystem DMES system 112, which embodies the essence of the present disclosure, will be the focus of this document and will be described in greater detail below. - The
OOPBM system 108 comprises a two-dimensional and three-dimensional parametric object-oriented modeler with its own proprietaryspatial database 118. Thesystem 108 enables graphical and non-graphical parametric objects to be defined using an Application Programmer's Interface (“API”) 120 associated therewith. A graphical interface to thesystem 108 that enables libraries of these parametric objects to be placed into thedatabase 118 and individual instances of the objects to be placed, or “instantiated” at accurate three-dimensional locations and orientations in the spatial database to assemble a dimensionally accurate building model. Thesystem 108 then enables these groups of instantiated objects to be viewed in two- or three-dimensional views and coordinated drawings, color renderings, and movies to be generated from thedatabase 118. - The
DMES system 110 includes a plurality ofobjects 122 comprising elements and massing elements described in detail below with reference toFIG. 2 a and developed using theAPI 120. Each of theobjects 122 includes an internal interface through which it communicates with other objects in the hierarchy and a set of internal functions and variables that contain formulas and values that are calculated and assigned when the object is instantiated in thedatabase 118. These formulas and values encapsulate the knowledge and expertise of the industry's designers, engineers, specialists, manufacturers, city building codes and regulations, and combine to create an expert system for the design and construction of a building. Exemplary code segments for encapsulating such information are set forth in Appendices B and C hereto. Specifically, the code segment set forth in Appendix B is incorporated into a Structural massing element (FIG. 2 a) and calculates the necessary girder reinforcements, while the code segment set forth in Appendix C is incorporated into a HVAC Tables element (FIG. 2 a) and reads a glass solar gain external file associated with that element and creates a table from the data contained therein. - When compiled, the API source code in the
objects 122 is cross-compiled into dynamic link libraries (“DLLs”) that link directly with executable code of theDMES system 110 to create classes in thedatabase 118. They are organized in groups related to the various subsets of a construction project (applications), and ordered in an assembly hierarchy 200 (FIG. 2 a) that forms a logical sequence for the assembly of a building model. - When instantiated in the
database 118, theobjects 122 automatically display appropriate graphical representations from different view points to produce two- and three-dimensional views of the resultant building model. Additionally, when instantiated in thedatabase 118, the internal interfaces of theobjects 122 enable them to pass data between one another, and their internal functionality allows them to execute core functionalities of the database and internal functions of other objects in the model. - As previously indicated,
objects 122 that are defined as “massing elements” are capable of directly creating instances of other objects, positioning them accurately in the building model, and passing data to and from these instances. Each of theobjects 122 also includes programming code that defines a graphical user interface, in the form of a dialog box, as illustrated inFIGS. 4 a-4 d and 4 f-4 i, to the object that is displayed when a user creates an instance of the object in thedatabase 118. These dialog boxes allow data to be entered directly into a current instance of the object for use in the design of the building model when the automatic assembly process is run. Specifically, manually placing an instance of any massing element in thedatabase 118 allows it to be manipulated through its dialog box to input new variable values and executed to automatically place instances of the objects below it in the assembly hierarchy 200 (FIG. 2 a). As it places these instances, a massing element may pass newly calculated values for the predetermined variables to them and execute their internal functions to instruct them to carry out their automatic tasks. - The
cost estimating system 112 comprises a singular database that contains up-do-date local and regional unit cost information to be associated with itemized cost code information being passed from individual instantiated objects, or elements. The link association is an automated import routine, which parses an output data file mapping specific item code numbers to their respective unit costs producing anestimate database 123. Theestimate database 123 filters and sorts all fields sequentially to produce a compiled estimate. A report generator displays and formats the compiled estimate in CSI divisional sequence or user-defined layouts. - In one embodiment, the
estimate database 123 is designed such that the cost data contained therein may be periodically updated either automatically or manually via local or remote access thereto. For example, in a web-based implementation of the present disclosure, it would be possible for one or more authorized individuals to upload updated cost data to thedatabase 123 on the web server. Alternatively, it would be possible for one or more authorized individuals to download such updated cost data to thedatabase 123 stored on a computer connected to a network server or to manually update the data by directly accessing the database and changing selected data. - The
scheduling system 114 comprises agraphical scheduling database 124 that generates graphs and charts containing bars, which represent each of the construction activities for the building project. These activities incorporate dates, labor requirements, and sequencing for construction, assembly, and installation of the components and equipment of the building. Having assigned all of the activities relevant to a specific project and defined start dates, duration, and relationships of these activities, thesystem 114 automatically determines the critical path activities to minimize the overall project duration. TheOOPBM system 108 described above enables all of the elements assembled into a building model in itsdatabase 118 to be assigned activity names and start and end dates for their construction or installation. As will be described below, the activity data is automatically input into the elements by the massing elements as the building model is being assembled. The massing elements also automatically write the activity data to a set of external data files, which in turn are transferred into thescheduling system 114 to automatically generate a schedule. In particular, as shown inFIG. 2 a, scheduling data is accumulated and passed to anInterview massing element 201, which writes a schedule transfer data file 210 b to pass the data to thescheduling system 114 for production of a suitably-formatted schedule. If the schedule is subsequently amended, thescheduling system 114 generates revised activity data files that, when read in by theDMES system 110, automatically update the activity scheduling data in the building model. - In one embodiment, it would be beneficial for the
database 124 to contain data for generating maintenance, as well as construction, schedules to be used in maintaining the building after it is constructed according to the building model. - The
OOPBM system 108 also has the ability to dynamically assemble and disassemble the building model by the scheduled construction sequence using the activity start and end dates stored in the instances of its component elements. This dynamic process therefore allows display of the construction state of the actual building project on any specific date. - The operation of the present disclosure will now be generally described with reference to
FIGS. 1 a, 1 b, and 2 a. As shown inFIG. 1 a, execution begins instep 150 in which the only element in a first tier of the assembly hierarchy 200 (FIG. 2 a), which is anInterview massing element 201, is manually placed in thedatabase 118. Instep 151, the client's high-level requirements for the project are entered via a dialog box associated with the Interview massing element, as illustrated inFIG. 1 b. Specifically, manually placing the Interview massing element causes its dialog box (FIG. 1 b) to be displayed, thus enabling the user to select which of the other elements the user wants the Interview massing element to place automatically. The tabs on the Interview dialog box enable the user to input some of the high-level data relevant to each of the selected elements, which data is passed to those elements as they are placed during the assembly process. - Additionally, manually placing a lower tier element into the
database 118 causes its dialog box to be displayed (see, e.g.,FIGS. 4 a-4 d and 4 f-4 i) (step 152), allowing the user to control its configuration directly by inputting the desired parameters (step 154) and have these parameters stored in data files for use by the automatic assembly process when it is run. If the element is a massing element, the user can also input the desired parameters for elements below the current element in the assembly hierarchy 200 (FIG. 2 a) and the massing element will appropriately place those elements automatically. These optional steps will be taken, if at all, beforestep 150, described above. - As illustrated in steps 150-154, there are effectively two ways of running the DMES system. The initial method with the customer (building owner) is to place an instance of the Interview massing element and input various high-level choices into its dialog, then run the DMES system on that high-level information only. This causes a building to be assembled based on those high-level design decisions, and all of the other choices in the lower elements and massing elements in the hierarchy use their default (best practice) values. The second method includes an initial (optional) pre-pass, which involves placing individual instances of some or all of the elements and massing elements in the hierarchy, and inputting more detailed design decisions into their respective dialogs, and having that lower level detailed information saved in external data files for use by the DMES system when it is run. Then an instance of the Interview massing element is placed, as above, and various high-level choices are input into its dialog and the DMES system is then run based on that high-level information plus all of the design information gathered from the external data files by the elements and massing elements as they are automatically assembled.
- Referring briefly to
FIG. 2 a, theassembly hierarchy 200 comprises a plurality of elements for implementing theDMES system 110. As will be described in greater detail below, elements in each tier of thehierarchy 200 pass values to and receive values from elements in the immediately preceding and the immediately succeeding tier. In particular, the first tier includes anInterview massing element 201, which passes values to and receives values from an Interview Estimate element 202 a′, a Building Shape massing element 202 a, a CoreZone massing element 202 b, aCladding massing element 202 c, aRoom massing element 202 d, a LightZone massing element 202 e, anHVAC massing element 202 f, anElectrical massing element 202 f, and aQuantity element 202 g, all of which are located in the second tier. Similarly, the elements 202 a-202 f in the second tier pass values to and receive values from aGrid Layout element 204 a, aStructural massing element 204 b, aCore massing element 204 c, aCurtainwall massing element 204 d, aPrecast massing element 204 e, a Room element 204 f, aLight massing element 204 g, anHVAC Tables element 204 h, anHVAC Area element 204 i, anHVAC Peak element 204 j, an HVACExternal VAV element 204 k, an HVAC Corner VAV element 204 l, and an Electrical Devices element 204 m, all of which are in the third tier. Theelements 204 b-204 g in the third tier pass values to and receive values from a Pier,Gradebeam element 204 a, anElevator massing element 206 b, aRoom element 206 c, aCurtainwall element 206 d, aPrecast element 206 e, a secondElectrical Devices element 206 f, aDoor element 206 a, and aLight element 206 h, all of which are in a fourth tier. Finally, the several elements of the fourth tier, i.e.,elements Elevator element 208 a, a thirdElectrical Devices element 208 b, aLight element 208 c, aDoor element 208 d, anEntrance element 208 e, and aCanopy element 208 f, all of which are in a fifth tier. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 a, instep 155, an assembly process is initiated and run by executing theDMES system 110. During the assembly process, theInterview massing element 201 assimilates the data input thereto via its dialog box (FIG. 1 b) and creates an instance of a first element in the second tier of the hierarchy, and passes it appropriate design data. As previously indicated, data may also be passed to the element 202 a′ via its own individual dialog box. The second tier massing element in turn creates instances of lower tier elements and massing elements, if any, and passes them appropriate design data and so on. Once the process of passing data to and receiving data from the branch of the hierarchy headed by the first one of the second tier massing elements is complete, the Interview massing element creates an instance of the next massing element in the second tier of the hierarchy and the above-described process is repeated for that branch and for each subsequent branch in sequential order. - In summary, as each element is placed in the
database 118 by one of the massing elements, data is passed to it by the massing element. The massing element then executes its internal function(s), including placing instances of other elements, where appropriate, and gets back values of specific variables in that element for use in other elements in the hierarchy. Through this process of passing and receiving new data via the elements' internal interfaces, design information is passed from one element to the next in the building model as it is being assembled by the massing elements. This process causes each element to design itself based on the new data it receives when it is placed in the database and to pass on the results of its calculations to the element(s) in the next tier of the hierarchy. - For example, with reference to the
assembly hierarchy 200 ofFIG. 2 a, theInterview massing element 201 first creates an instance of the Interview Estimate element 202 a′ and passes the appropriate data thereto. After theInterview massing element 201 receives the requisite data back from the Interview Estimate element 202 a′, it creates an instance of the Building Shape massing element 202 a and passes data thereto. The Building Shape massing element 202 a then creates an instance of theGrid Layout element 204 a and passes the appropriate data thereto, awaits the return of data therefrom, and then creates an instance of theStructural massing element 204 b and passes the appropriate data thereto. TheStructural massing element 204 b creates an instance of the Pier/Gradebeam element 206 a, passes the appropriate data thereto and awaits the return of data therefrom, at which point it returns data to the Building Shape element 202 a. The Building Shape element 202 a returns the requisite data to theInterview Massing element 201, and the Interview Massing element creates an instance of the CoreZone massing element 202 b. - This process continues autonomously as thus described for each branch of the
hierarchy 200 down through theQuantity element 202 g until a complete building model has been assembled from the appropriate library elements as constrained by the defined project parameters. As each element is placed by its massing element, its internal functions are executed and they calculate the quantities of components and materials used and the number of man-hours of labor involved in its fabrication and installation. These quantities are passed directly to the Interview Estimate element 202 a′ where they are accumulated and priced for output either as a graphical estimate sheet in thedatabase 118, or as the content of a transfer data file for passing to the cost estimating system 112 (step 156). - As previously indicated, the activity data is automatically input into the elements by the massing elements above them in the assembly hierarchy as the building model is being assembled. The massing elements also automatically write the activity data to a set of external data files, which in turn are transferred into the
scheduling system 114 to automatically generate a schedule. If the schedule is subsequently amended, thescheduling system 114 generates revised activity data sheets, which when read in by theDMES system 110 automatically update the activity scheduling data in the building model (step 158). - As the building model is being assembled in the
database 118, it is possible to watch its progress in dynamic two- and three-dimensional views on a computer monitor. It is also possible to view on the computer monitor drawings in a variety of formats and color renderings generated in the database and the estimate sheets and schedules developed by the other systems (step 160). Additionally, as the building model is being assembled in thedatabase 118, it is possible to watch its progress in dynamic two- and three-dimensional views 178 on acomputer display 179. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , all of the above software allows suitably detailed and coordinated documents to be sent to aprinter 169 to produce dimensionally accurate scaled drawings anddetails 170, schedules andspecifications 172, detailed cost estimates 174 and construction sequence schedules 176. - In a preferred embodiment, each element and massing element has built into it functionality that writes parameters input thereto via the dialog boxes to external data file(s), represented in
FIG. 2 a bydata files 220, when this option is selected via the dialog box. The purpose of these data files is to store design parameters for a specific building design required for use by the automatic assembly process when it is run. - Additionally, each element and massing element has built into it functionality that reads the appropriate data file(s) 22 during the automatic assembly process (
FIG. 1 a, step 155). This enables detailed design decisions to be made up front, using the natural graphical interface of each element and its corresponding dialog box, which get stored in the external data files for use when the building is being assembled. - It should be noted that the
hierarchy 200 shown inFIG. 2 a is for purposes of illustration only and, for that reason, does not include all of the elements, massing elements, and data files that might be used in implementing the present disclosure. - From the moment the Interview massing element is placed in the
database 118, given new client information, and executed, this process of automatic self-assembly proceeds to design and create the finished building model very quickly. Other internal functions that are executed by each element calculate quantities and costs of the components, materials, and labor involved in manufacturing, delivering, and installing that element into the structure. During the automatic assembly process, quantity and cost data are accumulated and passed directly to an Interview Estimate element 202 a′ that is automatically placed in thedatabase 118 by theInterview massing element 201. The Interview Estimate element 202 a′ either displays the resultant cost estimate sheet in thedatabase 118 or writes a quantities transfer data file 210 a to pass the data to estimatingsystem 112 for production of a suitably-formatted estimate sheet. - The completed building model created in the
database 118 contains all of the detailed two- and three-dimensional information necessary to generate a complete set of coordinated construction documents, including full-color photo-realistic renderings and movies. As will be described in greater detail below in connection with the “rattle the box” feature, theInterview massing element 201 also contains the functionality to allow variable building constraints to be input through its dialog, so that it then automatically assembles many buildings with varying parameters for design and/or cost comparison, for purposes to be described in greater detail below. -
FIGS. 2 b-2 e illustrate values passed between the component elements of a selected branch, in this case, the third, or “Core Zone” branch, of theassembly hierarchy 200. It should be recognized that this branch is executed immediately after execution of the “Building Shape” branch, headed by the Building Shape massing element 202 a, and immediately prior to execution of the “Cladding” branch, headed by theCladding massing element 202 b.FIG. 2 b illustrates the values passed between theInterview massing element 201 and the CoreZone massing element 202 b. TheInterview massing element 201 gathers some basic information regarding the project and allows the user to change some high-level parameters of the building design and then controls the assembly hierarchy to produce a full-scale, three-dimensional model of the building, complete with drawings, specifications cost estimation, and schedule. -
FIG. 2 c illustrates the values passed between theCore Zone element 202 b and theCore massing element 204 c. TheCore Zone element 202 b determines the building zones by defining the zones of the building into the following classes: Bulk, Link, Leg, and Corner. These various zones are then passed to theCore massing element 204 c, which will then place the appropriate rooms for each zone in the zone based on code rules and best practice. TheCore massing element 204 c is automatically placed by theCore Zone element 202 b, which passes it all the necessary building design parameters and then triggers it to start sizing and placing the elevators and rooms in the core area. -
FIGS. 2 d and 2 e respectively illustrate the values passed between theCore massing element 204 c and theElevator massing element 206 b and between the Elevator massing element and theElevator element 208 a. TheElevator massing element 204 c places the number of elevators required for each core zone based on industry standard, traffic analysis calculations. It also designs and draws the shaft, pit, and motor room per industry practices and rules for core layout and elevator efficiencies. -
FIG. 2 f illustrates the type of information provided to and received from each of the second tier elements 202 a-202 g by theInterview massing element 201, it being understood that some of the information passed between the Interview massing element and second tier elements may flow down to or up from lower tier elements. -
FIGS. 2 g-2 k collectively comprise a table including a more exhaustive list of the elements and massing elements of theDMES system 110, grouped according to type, as well as a description of the function of each. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a process flow diagram for developing one or more building models using theDMES system 110. Execution begins instep 300 responsive to a request from a client to develop a project scenario. Instep 300, parameters for the project are defined and input to theDMES system 110 as described below. Examples of project parameters include, but are not limited to, number of floors, total gross area, floor plate area, type of structure, and cladding systems. Upon completion ofstep 300, execution proceeds to step 302, in which a DMES process, implemented via theDMES system 110, is initiated. As described herein, and as generally shown and described with reference toFIG. 1 a, the DMES process ofstep 302 is a continual feedback loop that produces a variety of building models and associated project scenarios, including cost estimates and construction schedules, intended to distill the vision of the client into a comprehensive solution, including a building model, cost estimate, and construction schedule, which is submitted to the client for design, budget, and schedule review and approval (step 304) and then forwarded to the appropriate authorities for code review and permitting purposes (step 306). In particular, the DMES process (step 302) results in the development of construction documentation, including construction drawings, details, specifications, renderings, movie paths, and shop drawings, itemized budgets, and detailed construction schedules, which are simultaneously produced for each building model. - In
step 308, city building code interpretation refinement scenarios, constrained by the defined project parameters, are initiated and submitted to the DMES process (step 302). Once a building model and associated project scenario have been developed that fulfill the client's vision and with respect to which all necessary permits have been obtained, the building model and project scenario are submitted to the client for final approval (step 310). If approved, execution proceeds to step 312, construction of the project is undertaken and, upon inspection, the project is commissioned instep 314. If changing market or other conditions result in the client's not granting final approval instep 310, execution returns to step 302. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4 a-4 d, a Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box illustrated inFIGS. 4 a-4 d enables the user to specify specific information about the building shape and grid layout for the building. It will be recognized that the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box is associated with the Building shape element 202 a (FIG. 2 a) and is used to input data thereto. As shown inFIG. 4 a, using an Infotab dialog box 402, the user can specify the floor plate area, number of floors, and rotation for the structure by making entries in the appropriate fields. Additionally, the user can specify more specific items as they pertain to the structure, such as girder direction, girder maximum spans, exterior cladding spans, column set back from face of building, and the bay locations/widths for the building cores. When the above information is applied, the element will display the building configuration as shown inFIG. 4 e. - By checking the appropriate check boxes, the user can select display options, such as showing the grid layouts, column locations, girder locations, building and grid dimensions. The user can also have the element calculate the column-to-column bay lengths around the perimeter of the building for the exterior skin by checking the appropriate checkbox. After the above layout is complete, the user can assemble the structure, placing all of the slabs, joists, beams, girders, columns, and piers, and then choose to display a complete estimate of the cost of the structure. The structure can then be saved as a building option, another building assembled, and the two options compared.
-
FIG. 4 b illustrates a Modifytab dialog box 404. When the user selects the building shape using the Info tab dialog box 402 (FIG. 4 a), the information on the Modifytab dialog box 404 is preassigned. By checking a checkbox designated “Change Structure Coordinates/Bays” located at the top of thedialog box 404, the information on the Modifytab dialog box 404 can be changed. In changing or creating a building shape, the user determines how many zones the building is made up of and the rotation of each zone. Once this is determined, the user can assign the column widths, number of bays, and freeze the actual bay lengths in each direction. If the structure is of tilt-up construction, the user can choose not to have the perimeter columns. The location of the dimension lines can be changed and the “number of bays” overridden by calculating the minimum number of bays possible by checking the appropriate check boxes near the bottom of thedialog box 404. -
FIG. 4 c illustrates a Pointstab dialog box 406. As with the Modify tab dialog box 404 (FIG. 4 b), when the user selects the building shape from the Info tab dialog box 402 (FIG. 4 a), the information on the Pointstab dialog box 406 is preassigned. By checking a checkbox designated “Change Structure Coordinates/Bays” located at the top of thedialog box 406, the information on the Pointstab dialog box 406 can be changed. The Pointstab dialog box 406 enables a user to specify the X and Y coordinates for each zone shape. The user indicates the zone to be modified in a field designated “Modify Zone #” located near the top of thedialog box 406 and then assign corner points for that zone and the location of the start point as it relates to the global origin of thespatial database 118. -
FIG. 4 d illustrates a Perimetertab dialog box 408. As with the Modify tab dialog box 404 (FIG. 4 b) and the Points tab dialog box 404 (FIG. 4 c), when the user selects the building shape from the Info tab dialog box 402 (FIG. 4 a), the information on the Perimetertab dialog box 408 is preassigned. By checking a checkbox designated “Change Structure Coordinates/Bays” located at the top of thedialog box 408, the information on the Perimetertab dialog box 408 can be changed. The Perimetertab dialog box 408 specifies the X and Y coordinates for the perimeter of the total structure. After all zones have been placed together, these points are the points that make up the exterior of the structure. -
FIG. 4 e is a grid layout plan view showing the layout of the grid with dimensions and the outline of the buildings per the parameters entered using the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box shown inFIGS. 4 a-4 d and used in the Building Shape element calculations. - As shown in
FIGS. 4 f-4 i, a Structure dialog box, illustrated inFIGS. 4 f-4 i, is very similar to the Building Shape and Grid Layout dialog box (FIGS. 4 a-4 d). It will be recognized that the Structure dialog box is associated with theStructural massing element 204 b (FIG. 2 b) and is used to input data thereto. The Info tab dialog box 402 (FIG. 4 a) sends its information to the Structure dialog box and causes certain information to be preassigned. As shown inFIG. 4 f, using an Infotab dialog box 420, the user can override the preassigned information and can change concrete joist width, maximum pan widths and slab thickness by making entries in the appropriate fields. The design loads that are to be used for the live load, partition loads, and skin loads can also be manipulated using the Infotab dialog box 420. -
FIGS. 4 g and 4 h respectively illustrate a Modifytab dialog box 422 and a Structuretab dialog box 424, which are similar to the Modify tab dialog box 404 (FIG. 4 b) and the Points tab dialog box 406 (FIG. 4 c), respectively. The user can make changes using thesedialog boxes FIGS. 4 a-4 d. -
FIG. 4 i illustrates an Openingstab dialog box 426 that is used to locate the openings in the structural slab. Using the Openingstab dialog box 426, the user inputs the bottom left X and Y coordinates of the opening, as well as the length and width of the opening, and the structure will lay out the joist and beams around the location. When the Structure element is used in conjunction with theInterview massing element 201, the location and size of the openings are passed to the Structure element, which then uses the information to design the structure. -
FIG. 4 j illustrates a First Floor Plan View showing the layout of the piers, grade beams, and columns at the first floor level per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown inFIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in theStructural element 204 b calculations. -
FIG. 4 k illustrates a Typical Floor Plan View showing the layout of the beams, girders, joist, columns, and openings at a typical floor level per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown inFIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations. -
FIG. 4 l illustrates a Roof Plan View showing the layout of the beams, girders, joist, columns, and openings at a roof level per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown inFIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations. -
FIGS. 4 m and 4 n respectively illustrate a Front Elevation View and an End Elevation View showing the layout of the beams and columns per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown inFIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations. -
FIG. 4 o illustrates a Perspective View showing the layout of the beams and columns per the parameters entered using the dialog boxes shown inFIGS. 4 f through 4 i and used in the Structural Element calculations. - As previously described, as the building model is assembled in the
memory device 180, it can also be displayed on thedisplay 179.FIGS. 5 a-5 l illustrate this process for a three-story building.FIG. 5 a is a perspective view of a completed three-story reinforced concrete structural frame consisting of girder and joist slabs, piers, columns and beams.FIGS. 5 b-5 d illustrate the assembly of precast concrete cladding on the building structure ofFIG. 5 a. As evident fromFIGS. 5 b-5 d, the cladding is assembled around the perimeter of the structural frame floor-by-floor, one bay at a time. The cladding consists of spandrel panels, column covers, corner column cover units, and false column covers. -
FIGS. 5 e-5 h illustrates the addition of a punched window system to the structure ofFIG. 5 d. The punched window system assembles in openings in the precast cladding system, also floor-by-floor, one bay at a time. The punched window system consists of horizontal and vertical mullions with glazed lights and gaskets. Store front entrance doors and associated sidelights and canopies, where appropriate, are assembled in the entrance lobby locations. A parapet wall is placed behind the roof precast panels with coping over the assembly at the roof parapet. Finally,FIGS. 5 i-5 l respectively show perspective, rear elevation, side elevation, and front elevational views of the completed building showing precast and glazing cladding to structure. - In one aspect of the disclosure, the DMES system is capable of using fixed, non-parametric graphical objects as components of the building model while gathering useful information from them. This is achieved through use of a parametric massing element, referred to as a grouping massing element, that has the ability to assemble any single instance or grouped instances of elements. Each grouping massing element assembled in the model contains the names of the element or elements it in turn has assembled in the model. The grouping massing element also contains functions that store specific information about the various elements it may be assembling, along with functionality and calculations associated with those elements. The grouping massing element therefore contains the parametric behavior required of the elements it assembles in the model, and those elements can therefore either be parametric or use fixed, non-parametric graphical elements. The result is that non-parametric graphical elements may be transferred into the database of the
DMES system 110 from traditional CAD systems and those elements can be added to the element hierarchy used to assemble the building model. The high-level functionality can be added to these non-parametric elements when they are automatically assembled into the building model. - In another aspect, once the building configuration is determined, the steel reinforcement bar, or “rebar”, system, i.e., the reinforcing steel and size of each girder, beam, joist and pier, will be automatically designed by the
DMES system 110. The live load requirements are sent to theStructural massing element 204 b (FIG. 2 a) and are based on the building design. TheStructural massing element 204 b then calculates the load area of each structural member and applies the live loads, dead loads, point loads and any other load within that area to that member. The deflections, shears, and moments induced by these loads and the effects of loads on adjacent bays up to two spans are computed according to accepted engineering practice. From these computations, the member size and reinforcing steel size, spacing, configuration and location are determined. Any changes made to the design parameters will result in a redesign of the building model all the way down to the size, spacing, configuration and location of the reinforcing steel. - For example, based on a design parameter of 50 lb/sf live load, the
DMES system 110 would design a end span beam with the following attributes:width 2′6″; depth 20¾″; reinforcing steel bottom 2-#11's; top east 6-#4's; top west 7-#11's; and #4 stirrups at 18″ on center. If it was determined that the live load needed to increase to 80 lb/sf, the DMES system would redesign the beam to 3′0″ wide and increase the reinforcing steel to: bottom 3-#11's; top east 4-#5's; top west 8-#11's; and #4 stirrups at 14″ on center. - In a preferred embodiment, the foregoing information be electronically transmitted to a reinforcing steel supplier, thus enabling the fabrication process to begin immediately without awaiting final approval of the shop drawings, which can take several months, as is typically the case. Should the geometry of the building change, the above procedure is repeated and the new design is generated.
- In another aspect, the DMES system is capable of detecting physical clashes between various components of the building model as the model is being automatically assembled and automatically redesign the model to relocate the affected component(s) to avoid the clash. In contrast to a conventional CAD tool, which uses software algorithms that scan and sort the locations and extents of all three-dimensional primitive geometries in a building model and compares all of the locations thereof for potential overlaps, the DMES system of the present disclosure performs clash detection, or interference checking, by cross checking the location and extents of the current instance against only those other existing instances in the model and adjusting its position if necessary before assembling it into the model. This automatic clash detection is part of the assembly process in each massing element and each element uses its own specific functions to determine the parameters of a clash and the rules by which to reposition the instance. This process has a small incremental impact on the speed of the assembly process, but completely removes the need for a series of long clash detection exercises after the model is complete.
- An exemplary code block for performing such clash detection is set forth in Appendix D hereto. In particular, the function of this code block is to compare the position of the current light fixture against structural columns in the rectangular grid. The function is called from within the element assembly code block of the
Light massing element 204 g (FIG. 2 a). The return values tell the assembly code of theLight massing element 204 g how to place the light fixture-reposition up, reposition down, reposition left, reposition right, do not place at all, or ignore. - One unique application of the disclosure described herein is referred to as “rattling the box.” In particular, different data, or parameter, sets for implementing multiple building configurations are input to the
DMES system 110 along with incremental steps to vary them. Assembly of all of the resultant building models occurs automatically in sequence. - This assembly process runs in a
memory device 180 of the computer on which the DMES system is installed, thus removing the need to continually redraw the graphics on the monitor and increasing exponentially the speed with which assembly can be accomplished. The process instead displays a dynamic graphical representation of the cost estimate data generated with respect to each of the resultant building models to enable comparisons to be made therebetween. The greater the number of design parameters varied in a “rattle the box” process, the more complex the interaction of the various cost estimate curves produced. This process not only allows many more design evaluations and comparisons to be carried out than by traditional methods, it also delivers optimized maxima and minima that would be impossible to predict by currently available methods. - The “rattling the box” process therefore allows for the accurate evaluation and comparison of cost estimate data associated with many different building models through dynamic iteration of one or more selected design parameters to determine the optimum design.
- In one embodiment, the “rattle the box” process is implemented by wrapping the assembly functionality in the Interview massing element 202 (
FIG. 2 a) in a series of nested loops, each of which in turn increments one or more selected parameters. This forces the Interview massing element to assembles many building models, one after the other, with a variance of one or more of the design parameters in each iteration. -
FIG. 6 a is a flowchart illustrating the above-described process of rattling the box with respect to a selected parameter. Instep 500, the initial values for all parameters are input to theDMES system 110 as described above. Instep 502, a parameter to be incrementally changed is selected. Exemplary parameters include, but are not limited to, the angle of the building on the building site, the length-to-width ratio of the building, the number of floors, or the floor-to-floor height. Indeed, any one (or more) of the parameters input to theDMES system 110 may be selected. For the sake of example, it will be assumed for the remainder of the description ofFIG. 6 a that the selected parameter is the angle of the building on the building site and the initial value of the selected parameter is 0 degrees. Instep 504, an increment value, e.g., 10 degrees, is selected. Instep 506, a stop value for the selected parameter, e.g., 180 degrees, is selected. Instep 508, the building model is assembled using the initial parameter values. - In
step 510, the building model is saved. Instep 512, the value of the selected parameter is incremented by the selected increment value. Using the above-noted example, thefirst time step 512 is executed, the value of the selected parameter would be incremented from 0 degrees to 10 degrees. Instep 514, the building model is reassembled using the new value for the selected parameter. Instep 516, the new building model is saved. Instep 518, a determination is made whether the current value of the selected parameter is equal to the selected stop value. Again, using the above-noted example, thefirst time step 518 is executed, the current value of the selected parameter is 10 degrees, which is not equal to the selected stop value of 180 degrees. Accordingly, execution returns to step 512. If instep 518 it is determined that the current value of the selected parameter is equal to (or exceeds) the selected stop value, execution proceeds to step 520, in which the results are output, preferably in the form of a graph to enable a user quickly and easily to determine the cost maxima and minima. - It will be recognized that the flowchart shown in
FIG. 6 a illustrates a process in which only one parameter is selected and incremented, but that nested loops could be used to select any number of parameters to be incremented and the building model reassembled. - An exemplary code segment for implementing the “rattling the box” process is as follows:
//WHILE LOOP TO INCREMENTALLY CHANGE THE BUILDING ROTATION ON THE SITE while(rotation < maxRotation) { //WHILE LOOP TO INCREMENTALLY CHANGE THE BUILDING PROPORTIONS WHILE //MAINTAINING THE REQUIRED NET AREA while(buildingwidth < minBuildingWidth) { buildingWidth = buildingArea/buildingLength do { //DO LOOP TO PLACE EACH MASSING ELEMENT INSTANCE num++ } while(num < number) buildingLength += incrementalLength } buildingLength = originalBuildingLength rotation += incrementalRotation } - As previously indicated, this code segment is wrapped around the assembly do loop in the
Interview massing element 201. The above-noted example specifically increments the rotation of the building on the site while incrementing the plan proportions of the building model while maintaining the building foot plate net area. - The results of the “rattling the box” process can be graphed so as to graphically illustrate a cost maxima and minima. For example,
FIG. 6 b illustrates a graph of the results of a “rattle the box” process where a building was rotated on the site by 10 degree increments and the cost thereof recalculated (i.e., the building model reassembled in thememory device 180 at each position. - In an alternative embodiment, the detailed design information may be entered into the DMES system via a manual graphical design interface, instead of through the element and massing element dialogs boxes, thus facilitating use of the DMES system by architects and engineers, who will typically be more comfortable with sketching their designs into the DMES system rather than typing data defining their designs into a multitude of dialog boxes and their input fields. The manual graphical design interface consists of a set of graphical tools which allow the designer to draw shapes and drag and drop symbols to represent the desired design layouts and configurations for things like building shape, room layouts and stair, elevator and restroom positioning. The data gathered by the manual graphical design interface is stored in external data files for use by the elements and massing elements when the DMES system is run.
- Although an illustrative embodiment has been shown and described, a wide range of modification, change, and substitution is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure and in some instances, some features of the embodiment may be employed without a corresponding use of other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the embodiment disclosed herein.
APPENDIX A MASSING ELEMENT PLACING CODE BLOCK do { //DO LOOP TO PLACE INSTANCES ALONG EACH SIDE OF BUILDING if(TASK == “assembly”) { //PLACE THE CURRENT INSTANCE OF THE ELEMENT //GET LAYER HANDLE OF APPROPRIATE LAYER FOR THIS ELEMENT layerhandle = RewindLayer(“Layer01”) //PLACE THE CURRENT INSTANCE ON THE PLACEMENT LAYER obj = OBJplace(OBJECT1, layerhandle) //MOVE AND ROTATE THE CURRENT INSTANCE INTO POSITION OBJtranslate(obj, xpos, ypos, zpos) OBJrotate(obj, 0, 0, thisRot[thisSide]) //RETURN THE UID OF THE CURRENT INSTANCE FROM ITS HANDLE NODE[num] = OBJgetuid(obj) } else if(TASK == “cost” ∥ TASK == “estimate”) { //CREATE A NEW TEMPORARY OBJECT IN MEMORY obj = OBJnew(OBJECT1) } //IF TASK IS ASSEMBLY OR COSTING if(TASK != “none”) { //PASS THE DATA REQUIRED TO THE CURRENT INSTANCE OBJsetValueS(obj, “TASK”, TASK, 0) OBJsetValuel(obj, “LENGTH”, LENGTH, 0) OBJsetValuel(obj, “WIDTH”, WIDTH, 0) OBJsetValuel(obj, “HEIGHT”, HEIGHT, 0) OBJsetValueS(obj, “MATERIAL”, MATERIAL, 0) //EXECUTE CALCULATION VIEW OF CURRENT INSTANCE OBJexecute(obj, “calculation”) } //IF TASK IS ASSEMBLY if(TASK == “assembly”) { //WRITE THE CURRENT INSTANCE TO THE DATABASE OBJwrite(obj) //REDRAW THE CURRENT INSTANCE ON SCREEN OBJredraw(obj) //REFRESH THE SCREEN TO SHOW THE CURRENT INSTANCE NOW RefreshAll( ) } if(TASK != “none”) { //GATHER AND ACCUMULATE VALUES FROM EACH INSTANCE AREA = OBJgetValueF(obj, “AREA”, 0) VOLUME += PanelVolume+OBJgetValueF(obj, “VOLUME”, 0) COST += OBJgetValueF(obj, “COST”, 0) } else if(TASK == “cost” ∥ TASK == “estimate”) { //FREE UP TEMPORARY OBJECT IN MEMORY OBJfree(obj) } //INCREMENT THE INSTANCE NUMBER AND THE INSTANCE NUMBER ALONG THIS SIDE num++ //END OF DO LOOP TO PLACE EACH INSTANCE ALONG EACH SIDE OF EACH FLOOR } while(num < number) -
APPENDIX B CODE BLOCK TO CALCULATE GIRDER REINFORCEMENT //-------Girder weight per lf--------------------------------------------------------- if(nrow > 1 && nrow < wnumbay + 1) girderdeadload = width * ttldepth * concretewt if(nrow ==1 ∥ nrow == wnumbay + 1) girderdeadload = (extbeamwidth * ttldepth * concretewt) + SKINLOAD girderdeadload = girderdeadload * 1.4 gdl = girderdeadload //------Calculate the previous row of joist dead loads in psf--------------------------------------------------- if(nrow !=1 ) { previousslabwt = depth * concretewt previousjoistwt = ((previousjoistwidth * joistdepth)/centers) * concretewt previousjoistdeadload = (previousslabwt + previousjoistwt + clg_mech_load + PARTLOAD) * 1.4 } //-------Calculate deadload of joist on girder------------------------------------------------------------------- girderdeadload = girderdeadload + (((previousjoistspan *.5 * previousjoistdeadload) + (joistspan *.5 * joistdeadload)) //-------Area that the girder supports-------------------------------------------------------------------------- if(ncol ==1 || ncol == lnumbay) areasup = (wbaywidth*.5 + wprevious*.5 + width) * (lpresent − extbeamwidth) if(ncol > 1 && ncol < lnumbay) areasup = (wbaywidth*.5 + wprevious*.5 + width) * lpresent //------See if girder live load can be reduced by code reduction factor which = (area of support − 150) × .08, max 40%---------- girderliveload = ((joistspan *liveload) + (previousjoistspan * previousliveload)) / (joistspan + previousjoistspan) float liveLoadWithOutReduce = ((joistspan + previousjoistspan) *.5 + width)* girderliveload reduce = (areasup − 150) * .08 if(reduce < 10) girderliveload = girderliveload * 1.7 if(reduce >= 10 && reduce < 40) girderliveload = (girderliveload − (girderliveload * reduce*.01))*1.7 if(reduce >= 40) girderliveload = (girderliveload − (girderliveload * .4))*1.7 gll = girderliveload girderliveload = ((joistspan + previousjoistspan) *.5 + width)* girderliveload //------Calculate Girder total loads (Wu) lb/ft-------------------------------------------------- girderload = (girderliveload + girderdeadload) //------Calculate Girder moments in ft-kips-------------------------------------------------- girderwestmoment = (girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 160000 girdermiddlemoment = 0 girdereastmoment = (girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 160000 if(ncol == 1 ∥ ncol == lnumbay) { if (ncol != 1) girderwestmoment = (girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 10000 girdermiddlemoment =(girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 11000 if (ncol != lnumbay) girdereastmoment = (girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 10000 } if(ncol > 1 && ncol < lnumbay) { girderwestmoment = (girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 11000 girdermiddlemoment = (girderload * lpresent * lpresent) / 16000 girdereastmoment = girderwestmoment } //------Calculate Girder stirrup rebar area-------------------------------------------------------- compressionwidth = width integer codespacing = 24 shearultimate = (girderload * lpresent / 2) shearcritical = shearultimate − (girderload * rebardepth) concreteshear = 2 * sqrt(constrength * 144 * compressionwidth * rebardepth) steelshear = shearultimate/.85 − concreteshear stirrupdistance = (lpresent /2) − ((.85 * concreteshear/2) * (1 / girderload)) areasteel = .11 * 4 stirrupspacing = ((areasteel * constrength * rebardepth*12) / steelshear) + .95 if(rebardepth*12 / 2 < codespacing) codespacing = (rebardepth*12 / 2) if(((areasteel * steelyeild * rebardepth*12) / (50 * compressionwidth)) < codespacing) codespacing = ((areasteel * steelyeild * rebardepth*12) / (50 * compressionwidth)) gspacing = maxspacing + .9 gfirstspace = gspacing / 2 gtotalstirrup = ((stirrupdistance − gfirstspace) / maxspacing) + .95 //------Calculate bottom Girder rebar area-------------------------------------------------------- rebararea = 0 compression width = width moment = girdermiddlemoment w = (1.695−sqrt(1.695*1.695−((6.78*moment)/(.9*constrength*.144*compressionwidth*rebardepth*rebardepth))))/2 rebararea = (w * (constrength/steelyeild) * compressionwidth * rebardepth) * 144 botgrebararea = rebararea //------Calculate top Girder rebar area-------------------------------------------------------- integer tb = 1 do { compressionwidth = width topbarlength = 0 w = (1.695−sqrt(1.695*1.6950 ((6.78*moment)/(.9*constrength*.144*compressionwidth*rebardepth*rebardepth))))/2 rebararea = (w * (constrength/steelyeild) * compressionwidth * rebardepth) * 144 //Use Only 30 % of maximum moment Reinforcing if moment = 0 if(tb == 1 && girderwestmoment != 0) topgwrebararea = rebararea if(tb == 2 && girdereastmoment != 0) topgerebararea = rebararea tb++ } while (tb <= 2) //Check to make sure at least 30% of the maximum top rebar area is used if(topgwrebararea * .33333 > topgerebararea) topgerebararea = topgwrebararea * .33333 if(topgerebararea * .33333 > topgwrebararea) topgwrebararea = topgerebararea * .33333 -
APPENDIX C CODE BLOCK TO READ GLASS SOLAR GAIN EXTERNAL FILE AND CREATE TABLE void readGlassFile( ) { //DECLARE LOCAL VARIABLES integer readMonth = 0 integer readDegree = 0 integer readDirection = 0 integer readHour = 0 integer countDir = 0 integer countHour = 0 integer count = 0 integer monthNumber = 0 string month = “” string degree = “” string direction = “” string strMonth = MONTH string sgtemp = “” integer cr = 0 character charTemp //WHILE LOOP TO EXTRACT THE VALUES FROM CONTENT (IGNORING THE FIRST LINE OF THE FILE) while(count < stringLength) { //SELECT ONE CHARACTER AT A TIME temp = STRsubstr(content, count, count + 1) charTemp = STRchar(temp,0) //SET cr= TO TRUE IF CHARACTER IS A RETURN cr = STRiscr(charTemp) //TURN ON/OFF ITEMS FOR READING if(readMonth && temp == “,”) { readMonth = 0 ; readDegree = 1 } if(readMonth) month = month + temp monthNumber = month if(monthNumber > MONTH) break if(month == strMonth) { if(readDegree && cr ) { readDegree = 0 ; readDirection = 1 ; countDir = 0 } if(readDegree && temp != “,”) degree = degree + temp if(degree == strlat1 ∥ degree == strlat2) { if(readDirection && temp == “:” ) { readDirection = 0 ; readHour = 1 ; countHour = 0 } //READ CHARACTERS INTO VARIABLES NAMES if(readDirection && ! cr) direction = direction + temp if(readHour) { if(temp != “,” && temp != “:” && ! cr) sgtemp = sgtemp + temp } if(readHour && (temp == “,” ∥ cr)) { if(degree == strlat1) { GlassSG1[countDir][countHour] = sgtemp } if(degree == strlat2) { GlassSG2[countDir][countHour] = sgtemp } sgtemp = “” countHour++ } if(readHour && cr ) { readHour = 0 ; readDirection = 1 ; direction = “” ; countDir++ } } } if(temp == “#”) { readMonth = 1 readDegree = 0 month = “” degree = “” } count++ } //END OF WHILE LOOP TO EXTRACT CONTENTS countDir = 0 float firstSG = 0 float secondSG = 0 integer tempSG = 0 integer sgCounter = 0 do { countHour = 0 do { //CALCULATE THE SOLAR GAIN AT THE GIVEN LATITUDE firstSG = GlassSG1[countDir][countHour] secondSG = GlassSG2[countDir][countHour] tempSG = firstSG−(((firstSG−secondSG) / 12)*(LATITUDE−lat1)) + 0.9 GlassSG[MONTH][sgCounter] = tempSG sgCounter++ countHour++ } while (countHour < 12) countDir++ } while (countDir < 9) } -
APPENDIX D Clash Detection Code Block //FUNCTION TO TEST POSITION OF LIGHT FIXTURE AGAINST STRUCTURAL COLUMNS //(PASSED X AND Y POSITION OF LIGHT AND FLOOR NUMBER) integer testPos(float xposition, float yposition, integer flr) { //DECLARE TEMPORARY VARIABLES float xmin = 0 float ymin = 0 float xmax = 0 float ymax = 0 float bayWid = 0 float bayDep = 0 //DECLARE TEMPORARY VARIABLES FOR COLUMNS integer h = 0 integer v = 0 float colWid = COLUMNMINSIZE float colDep = COLUMNMINSIZE //TEST FOR CLASH WITH EACH COLUMN do //DO LOOP TO TEST HORIZONTAL COLUMN POSITIONS { bayWid = ColumnX[h] //CAPTURE THE X POSITION OF THE COLUMN xmin = (bayWid−colWid/2−OFFSET−light_length/2) //MIN CLEARANCE xmax = (bayWid+colWid/2+OFFSET+light_length/2) //MAX CLEARANCE //TEST FOR HORIZONTAL CLASH WITH COLUMN if((xposition >= xmin) && (xposition <= xmax)) { do // DO LOOP TO TEST VERTICAL COLUMN POSITIONS { bayDep = CoIumnY[v] //CAPTURE THE Y POSITION OF THE COLUMN ymin = (bayDep−colDep/2−OFFSET−light_width/2) //MIN CLEARANCE ymax = (bayDep+colDep/2+OFFSET+light_width/2) //MAX CLEARANCE //TEST FOR HORIZONTAL CLASH WITH COLUMN if((yposition >= ymin) && (yposition <= ymax)) { //RETURN VALUE OF 2 OR 3 FOR CONFLICT WITH COLUMN if(lightOffset == “vert”) //REPOSITION VERTICALLY { if(yposition > ymin+(ymax−ymin)/2) return(2) else return(3) } else if(lightOffset == “horz”) //REPOSITION HORIZONTALLY { if(xposition > xmin+(xmax−xmin)/2) return(2) else return(3) } } v++ } while(v < NUMBAYS[1]) } h++ bayDep = 0 v = 0 } while(h < NUMBAYS[0]) //RETURN VALUE OF ONE FOR NO CONFLICT return(1) }
Claims (35)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/776,923 US20080077364A1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2007-07-12 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/518,697 US6859768B1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2000-03-03 | Computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US10/945,135 US7496487B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2004-09-20 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US11/506,276 US7529650B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2006-08-18 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US11/776,923 US20080077364A1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2007-07-12 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/506,276 Continuation US7529650B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2006-08-18 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080077364A1 true US20080077364A1 (en) | 2008-03-27 |
Family
ID=24065086
Family Applications (4)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/518,697 Expired - Lifetime US6859768B1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2000-03-03 | Computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US10/945,135 Expired - Fee Related US7496487B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2004-09-20 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US11/506,276 Expired - Fee Related US7529650B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2006-08-18 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US11/776,923 Abandoned US20080077364A1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2007-07-12 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Family Applications Before (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/518,697 Expired - Lifetime US6859768B1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2000-03-03 | Computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US10/945,135 Expired - Fee Related US7496487B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2004-09-20 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
US11/506,276 Expired - Fee Related US7529650B2 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2006-08-18 | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (4) | US6859768B1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2001229524A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2001067372A1 (en) |
Cited By (27)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070174026A1 (en) * | 2006-01-25 | 2007-07-26 | Nicolas Mangon | Synchronized physical and analytical representations of a CAD model |
US20070179759A1 (en) * | 2006-01-31 | 2007-08-02 | Nicolas Mangon | Transferring load information and result information between analysis and design software |
US20070179976A1 (en) * | 2006-01-31 | 2007-08-02 | Arvin Scott A | Graphic interactive method to reorder sequential data values on graphic objects |
US20070219764A1 (en) * | 2006-03-15 | 2007-09-20 | Autodesk, Inc. | Synchronized Physical and Analytical Flow System Models |
US20080027968A1 (en) * | 2006-07-27 | 2008-01-31 | Autodesk, Inc. | Analysis Error Detection for a CAD Model |
US20080238918A1 (en) * | 2007-04-02 | 2008-10-02 | Autodesk, Inc. | View-specific representation of reinforcement |
US20090085915A1 (en) * | 2007-09-28 | 2009-04-02 | Harris Corporation | Geospatial modeling system providing user-selectable building shape options and related methods |
US20090216602A1 (en) * | 2008-02-21 | 2009-08-27 | Henderson Mark E | Schedule Analyzer |
US20100174573A1 (en) * | 2009-01-07 | 2010-07-08 | Bank Of America Corporation | Rough order of magnitude narrative system |
US7769595B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2010-08-03 | California Distribution Center, Inc. | Automated pricing and/or “Green” indicating method and system |
US7783523B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2010-08-24 | California Distribution Center, Inc. | Automated pricing system |
US7856342B1 (en) | 2006-10-02 | 2010-12-21 | Autodesk, Inc. | Automatic reinforcement modeling |
US20110010134A1 (en) * | 2009-07-08 | 2011-01-13 | Graphisoft | Active building information modeling apparatus and method |
US20110137443A1 (en) * | 2009-12-07 | 2011-06-09 | Akbar Farahani | Design Optimization System |
US8260628B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2012-09-04 | Uniloc Luxembourg S. A. | Automated pricing and/or “green” indicating method and system |
US8266005B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2012-09-11 | Uniloc Luxembourg | Automated pricing system |
WO2012173741A3 (en) * | 2011-06-11 | 2013-03-07 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions Inc. | Automated re-use of structural components |
US20150254376A1 (en) * | 2012-10-08 | 2015-09-10 | Hexagon Technology Center Gmbh | Method and system for virtual assembly of a structure |
US9507885B2 (en) | 2011-03-17 | 2016-11-29 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for realizing a building using automated building massing configuration generation |
US9607110B2 (en) | 2011-03-17 | 2017-03-28 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for realizing a building system |
US10025473B2 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2018-07-17 | Aditazz, Inc. | Room plan generation user interface for room plan selection |
US10452790B2 (en) | 2011-03-17 | 2019-10-22 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for evaluating the energy use of multiple different building massing configurations |
US20220114295A1 (en) * | 2020-10-09 | 2022-04-14 | Sidewalk Labs LLC | Methods, systems, and media for building configuration of one or more buildings |
US20230281358A1 (en) * | 2022-03-04 | 2023-09-07 | Slate Technologies Inc. | System and method for manufacture and customization of construction assemblies in a computing environment |
WO2023218385A1 (en) * | 2022-05-11 | 2023-11-16 | Dontsova Albina | Systems and methods for digitally priming a neurodiverse patient for treatment |
US11868933B2 (en) | 2021-11-18 | 2024-01-09 | Slate Technologies, Inc. | Intelligence driven method and system for multi-factor optimization of schedules and resource recommendations for smart construction |
US11907885B1 (en) | 2022-03-29 | 2024-02-20 | Slate Technologies Inc. | System and method for computational simulation and augmented/virtual reality in a construction environment |
Families Citing this family (245)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6725184B1 (en) * | 1999-06-30 | 2004-04-20 | Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation | Assembly and disassembly sequences of components in computerized multicomponent assembly models |
JP3877492B2 (en) * | 1999-08-31 | 2007-02-07 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Remote order design system and elevator remote order design method |
US6859768B1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2005-02-22 | The Beck Technology | Computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
GB2375863A (en) * | 2000-03-06 | 2002-11-27 | Wellogix Inc | Method and process for providing relevant data comparing proposal alternatives and reconciling proposals invoices and purchase orders with actual costs in a w |
US8930844B2 (en) * | 2000-08-22 | 2015-01-06 | Bruce Carlin | Network repository of digitalized 3D object models, and networked generation of photorealistic images based upon these models |
US7246044B2 (en) * | 2000-09-13 | 2007-07-17 | Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. | Method for aiding space design using network, system therefor, and server computer of the system |
AU2002237718A1 (en) * | 2000-10-30 | 2002-05-21 | Tririga, Inc. | Method for associating graphical objects with non-graphical data |
US7305367B1 (en) | 2000-12-13 | 2007-12-04 | Quickparts.Com | Instantaneous price quotation system for custom manufactured parts |
US20020099460A1 (en) * | 2001-01-24 | 2002-07-25 | Bowler Christopher Alen | System for facilitating elevator design |
US7720703B1 (en) * | 2001-02-05 | 2010-05-18 | Trimble Navigation Limited | System and method for tracking and managing construction projects |
US20020107788A1 (en) * | 2001-02-05 | 2002-08-08 | Cunningham Patrick Steven | Application and payment database system for lenders and builders and a method therefor |
US7283975B2 (en) * | 2001-02-05 | 2007-10-16 | Broughton W Curtis | System and method for tracking and managing construction projects |
US20020116239A1 (en) * | 2001-02-21 | 2002-08-22 | Reinsma Jeffrey Dean | Systems and methods for optimizing building materials |
JP2002332689A (en) * | 2001-05-10 | 2002-11-22 | Taisei Corp | Optimum section setting program |
US7406432B1 (en) | 2001-06-13 | 2008-07-29 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Project management over a network with automated task schedule update |
US7191141B2 (en) * | 2001-06-13 | 2007-03-13 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Automated management of development project files over a network |
US20030028393A1 (en) * | 2001-06-18 | 2003-02-06 | Coulston Robert Michael | Method and computer program for estimating project costs and time factors and facilitating management of remodeling and construction projects |
JP2003016146A (en) * | 2001-06-29 | 2003-01-17 | Fujitsu Ltd | Method for mediating building material processing |
GB0117784D0 (en) * | 2001-07-20 | 2001-09-12 | Start Global Ltd | Improvements relating to process control |
US20030018492A1 (en) * | 2001-07-20 | 2003-01-23 | Carlson Ronald M. | Method and apparatus for building project planning and budgeting |
US20030046040A1 (en) * | 2001-08-31 | 2003-03-06 | Patrucco Hector Alejandro | Method and system for architectural space programming for a facility |
AT500188B1 (en) * | 2001-09-14 | 2007-03-15 | Voest Alpine Ind Anlagen | COMPUTER-ASSISTED CONFIGURATOR FOR CONFIGURING AN INVESTMENT OF THE FOUNDRY INDUSTRY |
US20030084067A1 (en) * | 2001-10-30 | 2003-05-01 | Chudi Obiaya | Method and apparatus for asset management |
EP1443431A4 (en) * | 2001-11-07 | 2007-05-09 | Kajima Corp | Building production information integration system |
US6993401B1 (en) * | 2001-11-07 | 2006-01-31 | Autodesk, Inc. | Method and apparatus for simplified determination of a design schedule utilizing computer aided design (CAD) model information |
US7643968B1 (en) | 2002-02-25 | 2010-01-05 | Autodesk, Inc. | Method and apparatus for simplified patterning of features in a computer aided design (CAD) model |
US7644007B2 (en) * | 2002-06-17 | 2010-01-05 | King Fahd University Of Petroleum & Minerals | Method and apparatus for finance-based scheduling of construction projects |
US7409392B2 (en) * | 2002-08-16 | 2008-08-05 | Gcc, Inc. | System and method for managing construction projects |
US7171652B2 (en) * | 2002-12-06 | 2007-01-30 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Software development environment with design specification verification tool |
US7337151B2 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2008-02-26 | California Distribution Center, Inc. | Automated pricing system |
US8019793B2 (en) * | 2003-02-14 | 2011-09-13 | Accenture Global Services Limited | Methodology infrastructure and delivery vehicle |
GB2399658A (en) * | 2003-03-17 | 2004-09-22 | Stuart James Roy Smith | Online operations and maintenance manuals |
US7308675B2 (en) * | 2003-08-28 | 2007-12-11 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Data structure used for directory structure navigation in a skeleton code creation tool |
US7237224B1 (en) * | 2003-08-28 | 2007-06-26 | Ricoh Company Ltd. | Data structure used for skeleton function of a class in a skeleton code creation tool |
US7350185B2 (en) * | 2003-09-03 | 2008-03-25 | Electronic Data Systems Corporation | System, method, and computer program product for effort estimation |
US7305654B2 (en) * | 2003-09-19 | 2007-12-04 | Lsi Corporation | Test schedule estimator for legacy builds |
US20050071135A1 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2005-03-31 | Vredenburgh David W. | Knowledge management system for computer-aided design modeling |
US8805731B2 (en) * | 2003-10-24 | 2014-08-12 | Elbert Harris | Construction project submittal management |
US7389255B2 (en) * | 2003-11-25 | 2008-06-17 | Robert Formisano | Dynamic residential construction cost estimation process |
US20050131657A1 (en) * | 2003-12-16 | 2005-06-16 | Sean Mei Hsaio L. | Systems and methods for 3D modeling and creation of a digital asset library |
US20050131659A1 (en) * | 2003-12-16 | 2005-06-16 | Mei Hsaio L.S. | Systems and methods for 3D modeling and asset management |
US20050131658A1 (en) * | 2003-12-16 | 2005-06-16 | Mei Hsaio L.S. | Systems and methods for 3D assembly venue modeling |
US8635100B2 (en) * | 2003-12-22 | 2014-01-21 | Craig N. Janssen | System and method for generating multi-phase construction plans |
US7725299B2 (en) * | 2004-03-01 | 2010-05-25 | Purdue Research Foundation | Multi-tier and multi-domain distributed rapid product configuration and design system |
US7909241B2 (en) | 2004-03-09 | 2011-03-22 | Lowe's Companies, Inc. | Systems, methods and computer program products for implementing processes relating to retail sales |
US20080243269A1 (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2008-10-02 | The Australian Steel Company (Operations) Pty Ltd | Method and System for Scheduling Reinforcing Bars for Use in Reinforced Products |
US7398510B2 (en) * | 2004-04-21 | 2008-07-08 | International Business Machines Corporation | Estimating software project requirements for resolving defect backlogs |
EP1745612A4 (en) * | 2004-05-11 | 2011-03-16 | Trimble Planning Solutions Pty Ltd | Path analysis system |
US20060020431A1 (en) * | 2004-05-11 | 2006-01-26 | Peter Gipps | Path determination system for transport system |
US20060020430A1 (en) * | 2004-05-11 | 2006-01-26 | Peter Gipps | Path analysis system with client and server-side applications |
US20050268245A1 (en) * | 2004-05-11 | 2005-12-01 | Peter Gipps | User interface for path determination system |
US20060020789A1 (en) * | 2004-05-11 | 2006-01-26 | Peter Gipps | Secure infrastructure for path determination system |
US20060206623A1 (en) * | 2005-03-10 | 2006-09-14 | Peter Gipps | Path determination system for vehicle infrastructure paths |
US7925584B2 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2011-04-12 | Textura Corporation | Construction payment management system and method with document tracking features |
US20080288379A1 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2008-11-20 | Allin Patrick J | Construction payment management system and method with automated electronic document generation features |
US7366630B2 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2008-04-29 | Jds Uniphase Corporation | Management of electrical cable installations in a building |
AU2005267592B2 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2009-10-01 | Textura Corporation | Construction payment management system and method |
US9460441B2 (en) | 2004-06-29 | 2016-10-04 | Textura Corporation | Construction payment management system and method with document exchange features |
US7324911B2 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2008-01-29 | Jds Uniphase Corporation | Method of planning, installing, and verifying a set of electrical cables in a building |
US7363305B2 (en) * | 2004-09-02 | 2008-04-22 | Microsoft Corporation | Centralized terminology and glossary management |
US7617232B2 (en) * | 2004-09-02 | 2009-11-10 | Microsoft Corporation | Centralized terminology and glossary development |
US7308323B2 (en) * | 2004-09-10 | 2007-12-11 | Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. | Configuration output system |
US20080004844A1 (en) * | 2004-09-27 | 2008-01-03 | Mark Kefford | Method and System for Estimating Project Costs |
US20060074608A1 (en) * | 2004-10-01 | 2006-04-06 | Freeman Clay | System and method for designing building structures with associated estimates and schedules |
US20060074609A1 (en) * | 2004-10-01 | 2006-04-06 | Clay Freeman | System and method for determining variance in building structures |
US20060080279A1 (en) * | 2004-10-13 | 2006-04-13 | Jones Ryan K | Customized and customizable engineering calculation and project detailing system |
JP4081778B2 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2008-04-30 | リ・プロダクツ株式会社 | Cleaning work estimation system, cleaning work estimation method, and cleaning work estimation program |
US20060103672A1 (en) * | 2004-11-12 | 2006-05-18 | Ugs Corp. | System, method, and computer program product for managing parametric and other objects |
US20060106624A1 (en) * | 2004-11-12 | 2006-05-18 | Hardin Bert A | System and method for providing home remodeling services |
US8590011B1 (en) * | 2005-02-24 | 2013-11-19 | Versata Development Group, Inc. | Variable domain resource data security for data processing systems |
US8041650B2 (en) * | 2005-03-11 | 2011-10-18 | Howard Marcus | Method and system for directed documentation of construction projects |
US20060252013A1 (en) * | 2005-05-06 | 2006-11-09 | Mohit Jain | System and method for identifying activity levels in a kitchen workspace and recommending zones for the same |
US7333868B2 (en) | 2005-05-10 | 2008-02-19 | Tramco, Inc. | Systems and methods for designing and manufacturing engineered objects |
US20070050268A1 (en) * | 2005-08-24 | 2007-03-01 | Han Charles S | Matching CAD objects with relevant manufacturer-and supplier-supplied content leveraging pay-for-placement search engine technology |
BRPI0617134A2 (en) * | 2005-08-25 | 2011-07-12 | Shlumi Oren | system for managing building projects |
US20070059107A1 (en) * | 2005-09-09 | 2007-03-15 | Van Riper Edwin D | Slab-on-ground foundation design method |
US20070061181A1 (en) * | 2005-09-12 | 2007-03-15 | Gorbo Holdings, Llc | System and method for construction planning |
US7552032B2 (en) * | 2005-09-30 | 2009-06-23 | National University Of Singapore | Method and system for automated design |
US20070091119A1 (en) * | 2005-10-24 | 2007-04-26 | Matthew Jezyk | Integrated massing and design CAD models |
US20070156480A1 (en) * | 2005-11-14 | 2007-07-05 | Metavante Corporation | Commitment-process project-management methods and systems |
US20070239410A1 (en) * | 2006-03-15 | 2007-10-11 | Seppanen Olli P P | Location-based construction planning and scheduling system |
WO2007109306A2 (en) * | 2006-03-20 | 2007-09-27 | Project Frog, Inc. | Rapidly deployable modular building and methods |
US20080071562A1 (en) * | 2006-03-21 | 2008-03-20 | Hts, Llc | Tracking and Reporting Construction, Completion, and Inspection Status |
US20070244671A1 (en) * | 2006-04-13 | 2007-10-18 | Drone Iyangar | Systems and methods for storing, retrieving, and sharing design and construction data |
WO2007138560A2 (en) * | 2006-05-31 | 2007-12-06 | Andries Hendrik Potgieter | Design facilitation |
US20070288288A1 (en) * | 2006-06-07 | 2007-12-13 | Tetsuro Motoyama | Use of schedule editors in a network-based project schedule management system |
US8799043B2 (en) * | 2006-06-07 | 2014-08-05 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Consolidation of member schedules with a project schedule in a network-based management system |
US8050953B2 (en) * | 2006-06-07 | 2011-11-01 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Use of a database in a network-based project schedule management system |
US9726392B2 (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2017-08-08 | Honeywell International Inc. | Generic user interface system |
US20080004737A1 (en) * | 2006-06-30 | 2008-01-03 | Bennardo Frank L | Computerized engineering design and operating system |
EP2102825A4 (en) * | 2006-07-07 | 2014-05-28 | Selvaag Gruppen As | Computer-based method for automated modelling and design of buildings |
US20080021927A1 (en) * | 2006-07-24 | 2008-01-24 | United Technologies Corporation | Model based supportability process planning data set |
US20080055554A1 (en) * | 2006-08-30 | 2008-03-06 | Keith Tubin | Full Scale Plan Projection |
SG141268A1 (en) * | 2006-09-13 | 2008-04-28 | Univ Singapore | System and method for generating a bill of quantities |
EP1914647A1 (en) * | 2006-10-20 | 2008-04-23 | Hochtief Aktiengesellschaft | Method for planning, construction and operation of a building |
US20080109330A1 (en) * | 2006-11-08 | 2008-05-08 | Nova Chemicals Inc. | Method and system for constructing buildings |
JP4140649B2 (en) * | 2006-11-28 | 2008-08-27 | ダイキン工業株式会社 | Air conditioning system |
US20080208654A1 (en) * | 2007-01-05 | 2008-08-28 | Kurt Ira Nahikian | Method And Apparatus For Site And Building Selection |
US20080208602A1 (en) * | 2007-01-09 | 2008-08-28 | Westernoff W Gary | Method and apparatus for an on-line building registry and organizer |
CN100445901C (en) * | 2007-01-25 | 2008-12-24 | 上海交通大学 | Dynamic cost control method for industrial process of procedure based on AR(p)model |
US20080195449A1 (en) * | 2007-02-08 | 2008-08-14 | Microsoft Corporation | Techniques to manage cost resources |
US7979251B2 (en) * | 2007-03-16 | 2011-07-12 | Lego A/S | Automatic generation of building instructions for building element models |
US8374829B2 (en) | 2007-03-16 | 2013-02-12 | Lego A/S | Automatic generation of building instructions for building element models |
US7936354B2 (en) * | 2007-04-27 | 2011-05-03 | Graphisoft R&D Zrt. | Virtual trace-multiple view modeling system and method |
US8306883B2 (en) * | 2007-04-30 | 2012-11-06 | Textura Corporation | Construction payment management systems and methods with specified billing features |
WO2008137730A1 (en) * | 2007-05-04 | 2008-11-13 | Klipfel Arthur A | Computer code and method for designing multi-family dwelling |
US20080281573A1 (en) * | 2007-05-11 | 2008-11-13 | Paul Eric Seletsky | Digital design ecosystem |
WO2009015426A2 (en) * | 2007-07-31 | 2009-02-05 | Christopher Brown | An improved system, method and apparatus for constructing compound curve sandwich shell structures |
WO2009025788A1 (en) * | 2007-08-17 | 2009-02-26 | Dma Ink | Scheduling and budgeting application |
US20090198505A1 (en) * | 2008-02-05 | 2009-08-06 | Peter Gipps | Interactive path planning with dynamic costing |
US20090198539A1 (en) * | 2008-02-06 | 2009-08-06 | Leonard Buzz | Onscreen takeoff incorporating typical areas system, method and computer product |
US8442855B2 (en) * | 2008-03-28 | 2013-05-14 | Christopher R. DiPaolo | Method of designing and building to a targeted cost for high tech facilities |
WO2009146105A2 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2009-12-03 | Envista Corporation | Systems and methods for event coordination and asset control |
US8244569B2 (en) * | 2008-04-03 | 2012-08-14 | Vico Software Kft. | Non-destructive element splitting using location-based construction planning models |
EP2113872A1 (en) * | 2008-05-01 | 2009-11-04 | Accenture Global Services GmbH | Communications network deployment simulator |
US8868452B2 (en) * | 2008-05-01 | 2014-10-21 | Accenture Global Services Limited | Smart grid deployment simulator |
US20100031586A1 (en) * | 2008-06-10 | 2010-02-11 | Project Frog, Inc. | Roof joist for modular building and methods |
US8458970B2 (en) * | 2008-06-13 | 2013-06-11 | Tindall Corporation | Base support for wind-driven power generators |
CN102165450A (en) * | 2008-06-30 | 2011-08-24 | 三脚架组件私人有限公司 | System and method for designing a building |
JP2010108321A (en) * | 2008-10-31 | 2010-05-13 | Hitachi-Ge Nuclear Energy Ltd | Construction progress visualization system |
WO2010056921A2 (en) * | 2008-11-14 | 2010-05-20 | Project Frog, Inc. | Smart multifunctioning building panel |
US20100235206A1 (en) * | 2008-11-14 | 2010-09-16 | Project Frog, Inc. | Methods and Systems for Modular Buildings |
WO2010056994A1 (en) * | 2008-11-14 | 2010-05-20 | Project Frog, Inc. | Methods and systems for modular buildings |
US20100161288A1 (en) * | 2008-12-22 | 2010-06-24 | Whirlpool Corporation | Interactive system for a room design |
US20100217640A1 (en) * | 2009-02-20 | 2010-08-26 | Mark Nichols | Method and system for adaptive construction sequencing |
US8249947B2 (en) * | 2009-04-30 | 2012-08-21 | Lear Corporation | Vehicle seat component selection system |
US8401222B2 (en) | 2009-05-22 | 2013-03-19 | Pictometry International Corp. | System and process for roof measurement using aerial imagery |
AU2010201974A1 (en) * | 2009-10-23 | 2011-05-12 | Iconstruct (Aus) Pty Ltd | System and Method for Managing Information |
US20110145027A1 (en) * | 2009-12-12 | 2011-06-16 | Nicusor Mihai | System for visually processing and presenting cost estimates |
US9009011B2 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2015-04-14 | Patco, Inc. | Integrated construction platform |
US8688411B2 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2014-04-01 | John Louis Vanker | Method and system of using standardized structural components |
MX2012006896A (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2012-09-28 | Patco Llc | Panelized structural system for building construction. |
EP2517162A4 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2013-11-13 | AEA Integration | System and method for automated building services design |
WO2011079183A1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2011-06-30 | Ziggurat Solutions Llc | System and method for providing a digital construction model |
US20110213480A1 (en) * | 2010-03-01 | 2011-09-01 | Genexis Design Inc. | Parametric product configuration system |
WO2011112572A2 (en) | 2010-03-09 | 2011-09-15 | Vela Systems, Inc. | Systems and methods for construction field management and operations with building information modeling |
US20110257938A1 (en) * | 2010-04-16 | 2011-10-20 | William Eyers | System and method for use in designing air intakes |
US8788590B2 (en) * | 2010-04-30 | 2014-07-22 | Iliv Technologies Inc. | Collaboration tool |
US10254745B2 (en) * | 2010-05-20 | 2019-04-09 | Mechanical Software Technologies, Inc. | Computer-implemented automated design, modeling and manufacturing system for a project |
US9613458B2 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2017-04-04 | Mechanical Software Technologies, Inc. | Self drawing tool for a computer-implemented automated design, modeling and manufacturing system |
US20140013262A1 (en) * | 2010-07-29 | 2014-01-09 | James Hardie Technology Limited | Systems and methods for providing product information |
US8406477B2 (en) * | 2010-08-12 | 2013-03-26 | Honeywell International Inc. | System and method for constructing a three dimensional operational graphic from a two dimensional building control subsystem drawing |
US11392977B2 (en) | 2015-12-14 | 2022-07-19 | Accurence, Inc. | Asset tracking system and method of enabling user cost reduction for such assets |
US10861099B2 (en) * | 2011-01-11 | 2020-12-08 | Accurence, Inc. | Method and system for converting resource needs to service descriptions |
US9721264B2 (en) | 2011-01-11 | 2017-08-01 | Accurence, Inc. | Method and system for property damage analysis |
US8538588B2 (en) | 2011-02-28 | 2013-09-17 | Honeywell International Inc. | Method and apparatus for configuring scheduling on a wall module |
US9898862B2 (en) | 2011-03-16 | 2018-02-20 | Oldcastle Buildingenvelope, Inc. | System and method for modeling buildings and building products |
US9600801B2 (en) | 2011-05-03 | 2017-03-21 | Architectural Computer Services, Inc. | Systems and methods for integrating research and incorporation of information into documents |
US8595937B2 (en) * | 2011-05-18 | 2013-12-03 | Ahmed B. Shuraim | Method for fabricating a reinforced wide shallow concrete beam with increased shear resistance efficiency |
US8843352B2 (en) | 2011-08-16 | 2014-09-23 | Google Inc. | System and methods facilitating interfacing with a structure design and development process |
US8954297B2 (en) | 2012-01-02 | 2015-02-10 | Flux Factory, Inc. | Automated and intelligent structure design generation and exploration |
US8285521B1 (en) * | 2011-09-20 | 2012-10-09 | Google Inc. | Certification controls for a structure design, analysis, and implementation system |
US8229715B1 (en) | 2011-06-17 | 2012-07-24 | Google Inc. | System and methods facilitating collaboration in the design, analysis, and implementation of a structure |
US8516572B2 (en) | 2011-09-20 | 2013-08-20 | Google Inc. | User certification in a structure design, analysis, and implementation system |
US20120296611A1 (en) * | 2011-05-20 | 2012-11-22 | Google Inc. | System and Methods for Structure Design, Analysis, and Implementation |
US8510142B2 (en) * | 2011-07-20 | 2013-08-13 | Fluor Technologies Corporation | Conflicting expert systems |
US8571909B2 (en) * | 2011-08-17 | 2013-10-29 | Roundhouse One Llc | Business intelligence system and method utilizing multidimensional analysis of a plurality of transformed and scaled data streams |
US9996807B2 (en) | 2011-08-17 | 2018-06-12 | Roundhouse One Llc | Multidimensional digital platform for building integration and analysis |
US8826163B1 (en) * | 2011-08-29 | 2014-09-02 | Ironridge, Inc. | Systems, methods and user interface for graphical configuration for roof mounts |
FR2989196B1 (en) * | 2012-04-05 | 2015-01-30 | Vinci Construction Grands Projets | METHOD FOR GENERATING AN INTERACTIVE DATA DISPLAY INTERFACE. |
IN2012DE01185A (en) * | 2012-04-17 | 2015-10-16 | Fluor Tech Corp | |
US20140012740A1 (en) * | 2012-07-06 | 2014-01-09 | Great Bridge Corporation | Collecting and analyzing transaction datacollecting and analyzing transaction and demographic data to fulfill queries and target surveys |
WO2014054232A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-04-10 | 日本電気株式会社 | Information system construction assistance device, information system construction assistance method, and information system construction assistance program |
US9736031B2 (en) * | 2012-10-16 | 2017-08-15 | Nec Corporation | Information system construction assistance device, information system construction assistance method, and information system construction assistance program |
US10929904B1 (en) | 2012-10-23 | 2021-02-23 | Protolabs, Inc. | Automated fabrication price quoting and fabrication ordering for computer-modeled structures |
US20140164072A1 (en) * | 2012-12-06 | 2014-06-12 | Solibri, Inc. | System and Method for Quantified Quality Analysis and Benchmarking for Building Information Modeling |
WO2014100243A1 (en) * | 2012-12-19 | 2014-06-26 | Patco, Llc | Method and system of using standardized structural components |
DE202013100400U1 (en) * | 2013-01-29 | 2014-02-04 | Jacques Tchouangueu | remotely operable fastener |
US9811612B2 (en) * | 2013-02-26 | 2017-11-07 | On Center Software, Inc. | Multi condition takeoff in construction project software programs |
US9721046B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2017-08-01 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for realizing a building system that involves computer based matching of form to function |
WO2014144867A1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Adt Us Holdings, Inc. | Security system using visual floor plan |
US9684880B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2017-06-20 | Connectwise.Com, Inc. | Project scheduling and management system that uses product data with product classes |
CN105247519A (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2016-01-13 | 阿迪塔兹公司 | System and method for realizing a building system that involves computer based matching of form to function |
EP2973077A4 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2016-11-16 | Aditazz Inc | System and method for evaluating the energy use of multiple different building massing configurations |
CN103294865B (en) * | 2013-05-30 | 2017-05-03 | 珠海兴业绿色建筑科技有限公司 | Design method and system for solar power system |
US11429913B2 (en) | 2013-08-02 | 2022-08-30 | Connectwise, Llc | Systems and methods for converting sales opportunities to service tickets, sales orders, and projects |
US9726750B2 (en) | 2013-08-26 | 2017-08-08 | Specialty Electrical, Llc | Method and apparatus for multi-mode tracking and display of personnel locations in a graphical model |
TWI506582B (en) * | 2013-09-05 | 2015-11-01 | Chunghwa Telecom Co Ltd | The Cost Estimation System and Method of Energy Saving Service |
US9817639B2 (en) * | 2013-09-27 | 2017-11-14 | Autodesk, Inc. | Computational design method and interface |
US9606701B1 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2017-03-28 | Benko, LLC | Automated recommended joining data with presented methods for joining in computer-modeled structures |
US10373183B1 (en) | 2013-10-16 | 2019-08-06 | Alekhine, Llc | Automatic firm fabrication price quoting and fabrication ordering for computer-modeled joining features and related structures |
US20150134394A1 (en) * | 2013-11-14 | 2015-05-14 | Mark S. Sands | System for planning a building project |
TWI505218B (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2015-10-21 | Univ Nat Chiao Tung | Method for generating budgets, informationalized model and construction quantity takeoffs |
US20150234377A1 (en) * | 2014-02-18 | 2015-08-20 | ResiWeb Limited | Construction management system |
US11537765B1 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2022-12-27 | Benko, LLC | Placement and pricing of part marks in computer-modeled structures |
US11410224B1 (en) * | 2014-03-28 | 2022-08-09 | Desprez, Llc | Methods and software for requesting a pricing in an electronic marketplace using a user-modifiable spectrum interface |
US10552882B1 (en) | 2014-05-20 | 2020-02-04 | Desprez, Llc | Methods and software for enabling custom pricing in an electronic commerce system |
US10713394B1 (en) | 2014-06-12 | 2020-07-14 | Benko, LLC | Filtering components compatible with a computer-modeled structure |
US11392396B1 (en) | 2014-06-24 | 2022-07-19 | Desprez, Llc | Systems and methods for automated help |
US10025805B1 (en) | 2014-06-24 | 2018-07-17 | Benko, LLC | Systems and methods for automated help |
US10460342B1 (en) | 2014-08-12 | 2019-10-29 | Benko, LLC | Methods and software for providing targeted advertising to a product program |
US11599086B2 (en) | 2014-09-15 | 2023-03-07 | Desprez, Llc | Natural language user interface for computer-aided design systems |
US10095217B2 (en) | 2014-09-15 | 2018-10-09 | Desprez, Llc | Natural language user interface for computer-aided design systems |
US9613020B1 (en) | 2014-09-15 | 2017-04-04 | Benko, LLC | Natural language user interface for computer-aided design systems |
US10162337B2 (en) | 2014-09-15 | 2018-12-25 | Desprez, Llc | Natural language user interface for computer-aided design systems |
US11276095B1 (en) | 2014-10-30 | 2022-03-15 | Desprez, Llc | Methods and software for a pricing-method-agnostic ecommerce marketplace for manufacturing services |
US11023934B1 (en) | 2014-10-30 | 2021-06-01 | Desprez, Llc | Business variable optimization for manufacture or supply of designed products |
US10836110B2 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2020-11-17 | Desprez, Llc | Method and system for ordering expedited production or supply of designed products |
US10235009B1 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2019-03-19 | Desprez, Llc | Product variable optimization for manufacture or supply of designed products |
US11415961B1 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2022-08-16 | Desprez, Llc | Automated correlation of modeled product and preferred manufacturers |
US10073439B1 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2018-09-11 | Desprez, Llc | Methods, systems, and software for processing expedited production or supply of designed products |
US9672484B2 (en) * | 2014-12-09 | 2017-06-06 | Connectwise, Inc. | Systems and methods for interfacing between a sales management system and a project planning system |
US20160179990A1 (en) * | 2014-12-18 | 2016-06-23 | Aditazz, Inc. | Room plan generation user interface for rule configuration |
CN105093937B (en) * | 2015-03-13 | 2018-09-18 | 霍尼韦尔环境自控产品(天津)有限公司 | Building control system designs device and method |
US10410178B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2019-09-10 | Moca Systems, Inc. | Method for graphical pull planning with active work schedules |
US11004126B1 (en) | 2016-03-17 | 2021-05-11 | Desprez, Llc | Systems, methods, and software for generating, customizing, and automatedly e-mailing a request for quotation for fabricating a computer-modeled structure from within a CAD program |
US10803501B1 (en) | 2015-03-17 | 2020-10-13 | Desprez, Llc | Systems, methods, and software for generating, customizing, and automatedly e-mailing a request for quotation for fabricating a computer-modeled structure from within a CAD program |
US9920944B2 (en) | 2015-03-19 | 2018-03-20 | Honeywell International Inc. | Wall module display modification and sharing |
US10460368B2 (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2019-10-29 | Pella Corporation | System for presenting and updating a contextual visualization of multiple products installed in an installation location for multiple users |
US10289132B2 (en) * | 2015-09-24 | 2019-05-14 | Siemens Industry, Inc. | Automated engineering of building automation systems |
US10776883B2 (en) | 2016-02-29 | 2020-09-15 | Accurence, Inc. | Systems and methods for performing image analysis |
US10181079B2 (en) | 2016-02-29 | 2019-01-15 | Accurence, Inc. | System and method for performing video or still image analysis on building structures |
US11481968B2 (en) | 2016-02-29 | 2022-10-25 | Accurence, Inc. | Systems and methods for improving property inspection efficiency |
US11423449B1 (en) | 2016-03-23 | 2022-08-23 | Desprez, Llc | Electronic pricing machine configured to generate prices based on supplier willingness and a user interface therefor |
US10556309B1 (en) | 2016-03-24 | 2020-02-11 | Proto Labs Inc. | Methods of subtractively manufacturing a plurality of discrete objects from a single workpiece using a removable fixating material |
US10401824B2 (en) | 2016-04-14 | 2019-09-03 | The Rapid Manufacturing Group LLC | Methods and software for reducing machining equipment usage when machining multiple objects from a single workpiece |
US11481526B2 (en) * | 2016-10-21 | 2022-10-25 | Autodesk, Inc. | Cloud-enabled generation of construction metrics and documentation |
US10545481B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2020-01-28 | Proto Labs Inc | Methods and software for providing graphical representations of a plurality of objects in a central through opening |
CN106952023A (en) * | 2017-03-01 | 2017-07-14 | 广东中建普联科技股份有限公司 | Construction project Fast Quasi construction method and system |
US11048831B2 (en) * | 2017-07-20 | 2021-06-29 | Bricsys Nv | Predicting user desirability of a constructional connection in a building information model |
US10855482B2 (en) * | 2017-09-01 | 2020-12-01 | Charter Communications Operating, Llc | Automated methods and apparatus for facilitating the design and deployment of monitoring systems |
US10615230B2 (en) | 2017-11-08 | 2020-04-07 | Teradyne, Inc. | Identifying potentially-defective picture elements in an active-matrix display panel |
US11144681B2 (en) | 2017-11-10 | 2021-10-12 | Autodesk, Inc. | Generative design pipeline for urban and neighborhood planning |
US20190272489A1 (en) * | 2018-03-02 | 2019-09-05 | NLW Consulting LLC | Visual cost estimating for early phase project planning |
US11100457B2 (en) * | 2018-05-17 | 2021-08-24 | Here Global B.V. | Venue map based security infrastructure management |
US11532141B1 (en) | 2018-05-25 | 2022-12-20 | Strukshur Inc. | AR/VR interface for client/contractor communication platform |
WO2020031009A1 (en) * | 2018-08-08 | 2020-02-13 | B K Krishna Murthy | A system for monitoring construction of an architectural structure |
CN110866295A (en) * | 2018-08-10 | 2020-03-06 | 华龙国际核电技术有限公司 | Three-dimensional modeling method and device for building |
US10997553B2 (en) | 2018-10-29 | 2021-05-04 | DIGIBILT, Inc. | Method and system for automatically creating a bill of materials |
US11030709B2 (en) | 2018-10-29 | 2021-06-08 | DIGIBILT, Inc. | Method and system for automatically creating and assigning assembly labor activities (ALAs) to a bill of materials (BOM) |
CN110765517B (en) * | 2019-09-30 | 2023-02-17 | 中国联合工程有限公司 | Framework column three-dimensional view sandbox mode reinforcement method |
CN110807228B (en) * | 2019-10-30 | 2023-10-27 | 中国中元国际工程有限公司 | Air flotation platform performance design method based on influence of aspect ratio factors |
US11574085B2 (en) * | 2019-11-07 | 2023-02-07 | Consulting Engineers, Corp. | Method and system for identifying conflicts in a floor joist and wall panel vertical interface |
US20210217121A1 (en) * | 2020-01-14 | 2021-07-15 | Consulting Engineers, Corp. | Method and system for optimizing shipping methodology for cold formed steel studs |
CN111428296B (en) * | 2020-03-17 | 2022-07-08 | 中铁二院工程集团有限责任公司 | Pre-camber design method for continuous steel truss girder |
WO2022087678A1 (en) * | 2020-10-29 | 2022-05-05 | PT Blink Limited | Parameter based construction |
US11797733B2 (en) * | 2021-03-09 | 2023-10-24 | Togal.Ai Inc | Artificial intelligence determination of building metrics for code compliance |
US11475174B2 (en) | 2021-03-09 | 2022-10-18 | Togal.Ai Inc. | Methods and apparatus for artificial intelligence conversion of a two-dimensional reference into an actionable interface |
US11481704B2 (en) * | 2021-03-09 | 2022-10-25 | Togal.Ai Inc. | Methods and apparatus for artificial intelligence conversion of change orders into an actionable interface |
CN113344552B (en) * | 2021-07-08 | 2021-12-31 | 中宬建设管理有限公司 | Multi-project joint management method and system based on engineering cost |
WO2023049176A1 (en) * | 2021-09-21 | 2023-03-30 | Protea Intelligence, Inc. | Parametric cost-modeling system and method |
CN114333179B (en) * | 2021-11-21 | 2023-09-01 | 武汉谦屹达管理咨询有限公司 | Financial terminal fault pre-judging and warning method and system based on big data technology |
CN115168960B (en) * | 2022-07-19 | 2023-04-18 | 中国建筑西南设计研究院有限公司 | Automatic checking method based on plate reinforcement and expression mapping table |
CN115292782B (en) * | 2022-07-22 | 2023-08-25 | 中国建筑西南设计研究院有限公司 | Double-layer two-way floor slab reinforcement design method, system and medium adopting plate thickness specification |
CN117251924B (en) * | 2023-11-15 | 2024-01-30 | 中南大学 | Method for establishing railway bottom plate type tunnel reinforcing steel bar model |
Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5189606A (en) * | 1989-08-30 | 1993-02-23 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Air Force | Totally integrated construction cost estimating, analysis, and reporting system |
US5197120A (en) * | 1986-10-30 | 1993-03-23 | Synthesis, Inc. | Methods and systems for generating parametric designs |
US5255207A (en) * | 1988-06-16 | 1993-10-19 | Larry Cornwell | Method for designing and detailing cabinets |
US5745765A (en) * | 1995-10-23 | 1998-04-28 | Calico Technology, Inc. | Method and apparatus for automatic and interactive configuration of custom products |
US5918219A (en) * | 1994-12-14 | 1999-06-29 | Isherwood; John Philip | System and method for estimating construction project costs and schedules based on historical data |
US5920849A (en) * | 1997-01-22 | 1999-07-06 | Quickpen International Corp. | Systems and methods for evaluating building materials |
US5975908A (en) * | 1998-04-27 | 1999-11-02 | Hulten; Andrew J. | Custom building modeling system and kit |
US5983010A (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 1999-11-09 | Jeffrey Earl Murdock | Method of describing a building structure |
US6859768B1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2005-02-22 | The Beck Technology | Computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Family Cites Families (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3251543A (en) * | 1965-05-03 | 1966-05-17 | Fred L Bush | Shopping cart attachment |
-
2000
- 2000-03-03 US US09/518,697 patent/US6859768B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2001
- 2001-01-16 AU AU2001229524A patent/AU2001229524A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-01-16 WO PCT/US2001/001451 patent/WO2001067372A1/en active Application Filing
-
2004
- 2004-09-20 US US10/945,135 patent/US7496487B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2006
- 2006-08-18 US US11/506,276 patent/US7529650B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2007
- 2007-07-12 US US11/776,923 patent/US20080077364A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5197120A (en) * | 1986-10-30 | 1993-03-23 | Synthesis, Inc. | Methods and systems for generating parametric designs |
US5255207A (en) * | 1988-06-16 | 1993-10-19 | Larry Cornwell | Method for designing and detailing cabinets |
US5255207C1 (en) * | 1988-06-16 | 2001-01-09 | Larry Cornwell | Method for designing and detailing cabinets |
US5189606A (en) * | 1989-08-30 | 1993-02-23 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Air Force | Totally integrated construction cost estimating, analysis, and reporting system |
US5918219A (en) * | 1994-12-14 | 1999-06-29 | Isherwood; John Philip | System and method for estimating construction project costs and schedules based on historical data |
US5745765A (en) * | 1995-10-23 | 1998-04-28 | Calico Technology, Inc. | Method and apparatus for automatic and interactive configuration of custom products |
US5983010A (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 1999-11-09 | Jeffrey Earl Murdock | Method of describing a building structure |
US5920849A (en) * | 1997-01-22 | 1999-07-06 | Quickpen International Corp. | Systems and methods for evaluating building materials |
US5975908A (en) * | 1998-04-27 | 1999-11-02 | Hulten; Andrew J. | Custom building modeling system and kit |
US6859768B1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2005-02-22 | The Beck Technology | Computer-implemented automated building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system |
Cited By (41)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7769595B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2010-08-03 | California Distribution Center, Inc. | Automated pricing and/or “Green” indicating method and system |
US8266005B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2012-09-11 | Uniloc Luxembourg | Automated pricing system |
US8260628B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2012-09-04 | Uniloc Luxembourg S. A. | Automated pricing and/or “green” indicating method and system |
US7783523B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2010-08-24 | California Distribution Center, Inc. | Automated pricing system |
US8515820B2 (en) | 2003-01-17 | 2013-08-20 | Uniloc Luxembourg S.A. | Automated pricing system |
US20070174026A1 (en) * | 2006-01-25 | 2007-07-26 | Nicolas Mangon | Synchronized physical and analytical representations of a CAD model |
US7761266B2 (en) | 2006-01-25 | 2010-07-20 | Autodesk, Inc. | Synchronized physical and analytical representations of a CAD model |
US20070179759A1 (en) * | 2006-01-31 | 2007-08-02 | Nicolas Mangon | Transferring load information and result information between analysis and design software |
US20070179976A1 (en) * | 2006-01-31 | 2007-08-02 | Arvin Scott A | Graphic interactive method to reorder sequential data values on graphic objects |
US7788068B2 (en) | 2006-01-31 | 2010-08-31 | Autodesk, Inc. | Transferring load information and result information between analysis and design software |
US8315840B2 (en) | 2006-01-31 | 2012-11-20 | Autodesk, Inc. | Transferring structural loads and displacements between analysis and design software |
US7587302B2 (en) | 2006-01-31 | 2009-09-08 | Autodesk, Inc. | Graphic interactive method to reorder sequential data values on graphic objects |
US20070219764A1 (en) * | 2006-03-15 | 2007-09-20 | Autodesk, Inc. | Synchronized Physical and Analytical Flow System Models |
US8099260B2 (en) | 2006-07-27 | 2012-01-17 | Autodesk, Inc. | Analysis error detection for a CAD model |
US20080027968A1 (en) * | 2006-07-27 | 2008-01-31 | Autodesk, Inc. | Analysis Error Detection for a CAD Model |
US7856342B1 (en) | 2006-10-02 | 2010-12-21 | Autodesk, Inc. | Automatic reinforcement modeling |
US20080238918A1 (en) * | 2007-04-02 | 2008-10-02 | Autodesk, Inc. | View-specific representation of reinforcement |
US8471854B2 (en) * | 2007-09-28 | 2013-06-25 | Harris Corporation | Geospatial modeling system providing user-selectable building shape options and related methods |
US20090085915A1 (en) * | 2007-09-28 | 2009-04-02 | Harris Corporation | Geospatial modeling system providing user-selectable building shape options and related methods |
US20090216602A1 (en) * | 2008-02-21 | 2009-08-27 | Henderson Mark E | Schedule Analyzer |
WO2010080887A1 (en) * | 2009-01-07 | 2010-07-15 | Bank Of America Corporation | Rough order of magnitude narrative system |
US20100174573A1 (en) * | 2009-01-07 | 2010-07-08 | Bank Of America Corporation | Rough order of magnitude narrative system |
US8650104B2 (en) * | 2009-01-07 | 2014-02-11 | Bank Of America Corporation | Rough order of magnitude narrative system |
US8352218B2 (en) * | 2009-07-08 | 2013-01-08 | Graphisoft | Active building information modeling apparatus and method |
US20110010134A1 (en) * | 2009-07-08 | 2011-01-13 | Graphisoft | Active building information modeling apparatus and method |
US8755923B2 (en) * | 2009-12-07 | 2014-06-17 | Engineering Technology Associates, Inc. | Optimization system |
US20110137443A1 (en) * | 2009-12-07 | 2011-06-09 | Akbar Farahani | Design Optimization System |
US9607110B2 (en) | 2011-03-17 | 2017-03-28 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for realizing a building system |
US9507885B2 (en) | 2011-03-17 | 2016-11-29 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for realizing a building using automated building massing configuration generation |
US10452790B2 (en) | 2011-03-17 | 2019-10-22 | Aditazz, Inc. | System and method for evaluating the energy use of multiple different building massing configurations |
WO2012173741A3 (en) * | 2011-06-11 | 2013-03-07 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions Inc. | Automated re-use of structural components |
US9189571B2 (en) | 2011-06-11 | 2015-11-17 | Ice Edge Business Solutions, Ltd. | Automated re-use of structural components |
US20150254376A1 (en) * | 2012-10-08 | 2015-09-10 | Hexagon Technology Center Gmbh | Method and system for virtual assembly of a structure |
US9934335B2 (en) * | 2012-10-08 | 2018-04-03 | Hexagon Technology Center Gmbh | Method and system for virtual assembly of a structure |
US10025473B2 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2018-07-17 | Aditazz, Inc. | Room plan generation user interface for room plan selection |
US20220114295A1 (en) * | 2020-10-09 | 2022-04-14 | Sidewalk Labs LLC | Methods, systems, and media for building configuration of one or more buildings |
US11868933B2 (en) | 2021-11-18 | 2024-01-09 | Slate Technologies, Inc. | Intelligence driven method and system for multi-factor optimization of schedules and resource recommendations for smart construction |
US20230281358A1 (en) * | 2022-03-04 | 2023-09-07 | Slate Technologies Inc. | System and method for manufacture and customization of construction assemblies in a computing environment |
US11868686B2 (en) * | 2022-03-04 | 2024-01-09 | Slate Technologies Inc. | System and method for manufacture and customization of construction assemblies in a computing environment |
US11907885B1 (en) | 2022-03-29 | 2024-02-20 | Slate Technologies Inc. | System and method for computational simulation and augmented/virtual reality in a construction environment |
WO2023218385A1 (en) * | 2022-05-11 | 2023-11-16 | Dontsova Albina | Systems and methods for digitally priming a neurodiverse patient for treatment |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20060277007A1 (en) | 2006-12-07 |
US6859768B1 (en) | 2005-02-22 |
US7529650B2 (en) | 2009-05-05 |
US20050038636A1 (en) | 2005-02-17 |
US7496487B2 (en) | 2009-02-24 |
AU2001229524A1 (en) | 2001-09-17 |
WO2001067372A1 (en) | 2001-09-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7496487B2 (en) | Computer-implemented building design and modeling and project cost estimation and scheduling system | |
US10678962B2 (en) | Integrated construction portal | |
Eastman | BIM handbook: A guide to building information modeling for owners, managers, designers, engineers and contractors | |
US6996503B2 (en) | System and method for take-off of materials using two-dimensional CAD interface | |
US20100274374A1 (en) | System and process for the detailed design and production of reinforcement for buildings | |
US20120296611A1 (en) | System and Methods for Structure Design, Analysis, and Implementation | |
Moghadam | Lean-mod: An approach to modular construction manufacturing production efficiency improvement | |
Politi | Project planning and management using building information modeling (BIM) | |
Philip et al. | Constructability assessment of cast in-situ, precast and modular reinforced concrete structures | |
Winstanley et al. | Model-based planning: Scaled-up construction application | |
JP2001283050A (en) | User participating type design supporting system in house industry | |
JP3830708B2 (en) | Housing material ordering method and system | |
Sacks | Evaluation of economic impact of three-dimensional modeling in precast concrete engineering | |
Aslay et al. | Reduce the construction cost of a 7-story RC public building with metaheuristic algorithms | |
Popovas et al. | Technique for computer aided evaluation of economic indicators of a construction project | |
Szeląg et al. | BIM in general construction | |
CA2916816C (en) | Integrated construction portal | |
Saleh | Automation of quantity surveying in construction projects | |
Yönder | A case study on generative building skin forming by employing building information modelling (BIM) tools | |
Llacchas Flores | Digital simulation as a tool to improve productivity in construction industry | |
JP2002230080A (en) | System for automatically estimating price of building | |
JPH11120221A (en) | System for sharing object model and recording medium storing program used for realizing the system | |
Loikkanen | Algorithms-Aided Building Information Modeling in an Early Stage of Residential Design | |
Jongeling et al. | Virtual construction: construction planning and simulation with 4D | |
Semenyuk et al. | BIM technologies-New design options in architecture |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BECK TECHNOLOGY, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:WAKELAM, ROBERT BRUCE;BECK, HENRY C., III;PHILLIPS, BRADLEY PAUL;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:019623/0553;SIGNING DATES FROM 20000525 TO 20000607 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BECK TECH RESOURCES, LTD., TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BECK TECHNOLOGY, LTD.;REEL/FRAME:023245/0590 Effective date: 20090917 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BECK TECHNOLOGY, LTD., TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BECK TECH RESOURCES, LTD.;REEL/FRAME:041834/0490 Effective date: 20150630 |