Abstract
Building information modeling is a complex and structure-based methodology. It applies predefined steps and frameworks; however, an audit procedure can be complicated and time-consuming. The steps of the evaluations are based on logical connections that also form algorithms in a manual workflow. Algorithms can be interpreted by computers with the help of software languages. A higher level of automation, more efficient workflows, and more economical and accurate results can be developed by using algorithms.
1 Introduction
The first phase of the development of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is usually called “Classic BIM”, which means a methodology of creating models after completing construction design. This method has been induced by using 3D models for audit purposes to highlight mistakes of plans before starting construction [1].
As a result of technology development, an increasing number of BIM uses have been revealed that require the creation of more accurate information models and a higher level of precision [2]. For instance, these are facility management and documentation-based BIM methods [3]. Fulfilling requirements, the audit process has been more profound, and stricter criteria have been applied. Some rules have been developed based on predefined steps (forming simple algorithms) to comply with the final goals of audit processes that have been the creation of perfect models. In the past, these have been mainly manual audit workflows involving some clash detection software. However, these methods can be further developed and automated [4]. This research also supports its feasibility and usage possibilities through test situations according to real project experiences.
2 Algorithm-based audit workflows
The definition of BIM is more than modeling it also includes the meaning of management processes that are connected to this technology. Due to this technology development audit processes have also been improved to a higher level. BIM contractual documents [5] have appeared that regulates processes specified to projects according to BIM standards [6]. Missing these requirements may also lead to the refusal of contractual compliance. It results in higher responsibilities on the quality control processes. The Auditors, as in addition to the previous audit workflows (e.g., examination of element types, dimensions, duplicates, collisions) it is also necessary to check the compliance with the information content was defined in design programs and other BIM documents.
The software may help during audit processes but it should be noted, that these are not ready solutions. The software platforms can provide a framework for examining various parameters and parameter values, also allowing the incorporation of algorithm-based workflows.
2.1 Examination of BIM model, element content, content plan and budgeting
The emergence of simultaneous design and construction workflows (Design & Build method [7]) allowed constructors, investors, and customers to define new requirements. Due to the modeling and designing processes are parallel, models can be used for the calculation of quantities or budget for the moment in time. Its bases are the placed model elements and their attributes, which means the inaccuracy of the calculations is disparate in different project phases. Generally, in the case of a conceptual design, only a few elements are placed in the model therefore, the calculation is rather estimation while in the construction phase thousands or millions of elements are placed which may result in a more accurate Quantity Take-Off (QTO).
Because of the numerous elements, the classification of elements must have a precise structure and needs to be updated. It can be documented in a form of Content Plan (CP) however the enormous number of elements makes budgeting and audit more complicated. In the case of model-based budget creation, it is suggested to develop an element-based item list aligned to CP. Thereby the accuracy and content may be followed and controlled by time-consuming manual methods or by more efficient automated algorithms. The element-based item list needs to be considered. Currently, in Hungary, there is no uniformly developed and accepted budget system of norms that may provide a framework for BIM content. It is not common to use but it can support the work of budgeting professionals.
2.1.1 Developing the connection between model, CP, and budgeting documents
The first step is to create a connection between spreadsheet documents and the classification of budget items (Table 1). Inconsistent BIM workflows result in more complex algorithms. In a consistent situation matching of items can be made by using classification or some element-specific parameter. During this research, Autodesk Revit and Dynamo add-on was used for creating algorithms.
Assignment of model-based CP and budget items
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2.1.2 Developing of algorithms
The first components of the script have been used to define the parameter values for comparison purposes (Fig. 1). It is necessary to compare the values of the model and CP and besides converting the identifiers of model elements to be able to compare with budget items. After the parameter assignment process, a test was done, which resulted in differences between the budget list, BIM model, and CP. Results have been presented in a spreadsheet format in a specific column of the budget list and in a new empty table.
Operating principles of the developed algorithm
Citation: Pollack Periodica 17, 2; 10.1556/606.2021.00485
2.1.3 Results of the examination
The result of the test is an algorithm that can be used for auditing documents and BIM models with the same data structure (Table 2). It is applicable for future project audit processes but the specification of the algorithm is always necessary.
The result of the test
| BIM content plan | ||||
| Name | Item number | Model based quantity | Results | |
| Uniformat II. code | Model element name | |||
| A4020.20 | Elevator plate, monolithic reinforced concrete | 1.0.11.44.11.22 | 14.05 | CP |
| B1010.20 | Slab contraction joints, monolithic reinforced concrete | 1.0.11.44.11.00 | 756.27 | CP |
| B1010.20 | Slab contraction joints, monolithic reinforced concrete | 1.0.11.44.00.88 | 2801.01 | CP |
| B1010.20 | Slab contraction joints, monolithic reinforced concrete | 1.0.11.44.11.66 | 1143.77 | C |
| B1010.20 | Slab contraction joints, monolithic reinforced concrete | 1.0.11.44.00.88 | 7420.38 | CP |
| B3040.10 | Balcony - green roof | 1.0.44.00.11.00 | 3261.93 | CP+C |
| B3040.10 | Terraces | 1.0.44.00.88.00 | 889.83 | CP+C |
C is the item in cost table only; CP+C can be found in both the BIM content plan and the cost table; CP is the item found in BIM content plan only.
2.2 Parameter audit according to the architectural design program
BIM includes management processes that require a higher level of audit processes. Examination of model elements according to contractual documents is mandatory. One of the most important parts of an audit is to check the architectural design program because in most cases the assets or parts of the assets are sold before the planning or construction phase and it is essential to ensure the client what they have paid for. According to this statement, the permit and construction design documentation have to be aligned with the design program. In the case of BIM projects, the creation of plans should be connected to model elements.
Design programs (Table 3) are also written or spreadsheet documents in which data must be examined with the content of the BIM model. It can be managed with manual methods or using algorithms that may be an automate solution.
A general example of room's requirements in the design program
| Requirements of height |
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| Minimal requirements of apartment design |
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| General requirements of apartment design |
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2.2.1 The connection between document content and model elements
It was essential to have rooms or spaces placed in the model with their data content, to be able to compare it with the architectural design program. Furthermore, it was fundamental to list the used values from the document and define the calculation method for the audit. Model and algorithm management were made by Autodesk Revit and Dynamo add-in. The source format of the template was not authoritative because the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) format may also be applied.
The base of this audit process was the accurate BIM model that has been created according to BIM methods and rules because the algorithm has used the information content of the model elements. It was obliged to check the model accuracy and if necessary then correct it.
2.2.2 Creation of algorithm
After opening IFC files the first step of the algorithm creation (Fig. 2) was to examine the element types and finding the room elements. The next step was to manage the 2D metadata according to the design program. After that, the identification, scheduling, and comparison of the reference value-based parameters with the design program had to be done. The result of the process was to find the matches or differences and record them in a previously formed spreadsheet with specified comments.
Flowchart showing the principle of operation of an algorithm
Citation: Pollack Periodica 17, 2; 10.1556/606.2021.00485
2.2.3 Results of the process
The final result of the study was an algorithm that contained about 100 Node and 175 logical connections, which can be used to evaluate the reference values with model information. Its principles can be applied directly in a project with the same data structure. It is applicable for future audit projects but the specification of the algorithm is necessary. Table 4 shows the commented final results.
The result of the test (“Comments” column)
| Room category (Archicad Properties) | Room name (AC_Pset_room_ stamp _3_20) | Room number (AC_Pset_ room_stamp _3_20) | Room area (Archicad Quantities) | Room height (Archicad Quantities) | Comments |
| Common Service Areas | Staff | 000-00-06 | 6.78 | 3,000 | |
| Commerce | Commerce | 000-03 | 43.46 | 3,000 | The height does not meet the design specifications. |
| Corridor Areas | Corridor | 000-00-03 | 3.43 | 3,000 | |
| Corridor Areas | Smoke-free lobby | 000-00-02 | 17.3 | 3,000 | |
| Corridor Areas | Lobby | 000-00-05 | 41.5 | 3,000 | The height does not meet the design specifications. |
| Commerce | Commerce | 000-02 | 38.1 | 3,000 | The height does not meet the design specifications. |
| Fitness | Fitness/5 | 000-05 | 8.8 | 3,000 | |
| Fitness | Air mechanical room | 000-11 | 41.2 | 4,070 | |
| Commerce | Commerce | 000-01 | 73.53 | 3,000 | The height does not meet the design specifications. |
| Apartment area | Living room | 001-01-04 | 21.88 | 2,900 | |
| Apartment area | Room | 001-01-07 | 11.71 | 2,900 | The area does not meet the design specifications. |
| Apartment Area | Room | 001-01-08 | 10.39 | 2,900 | The area does not meet the design specifications. |
3 Conclusion
The spread and development of BIM technologies have been obliged to use and integrate algorithms in future projects. This implied the fact that the time spent on creating algorithms is much less than the time that can be saved during its use. Therefore, the use of algorithms is efficient and economically favorable. A disadvantage is that the development of algorithms needs special knowledge and in many cases, only experienced professionals can perform. However, the use of an algorithm is not complicated and it can support all project stakeholders in any project phase. Applying algorithms to any project size saves time and resources. However, its benefit may vary depending on the scale of each task and the number of activities performed.
References
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