Virtual generative BIM workspace for maximising AEC conceptual design innovation

Abrishami, Sepehr, Goulding, Jack, Rahimian, Farzad Pour and Ganah, Abdul (2015) Virtual generative BIM workspace for maximising AEC conceptual design innovation. Construction Innovation, 15 (1). pp. 24-41. ISSN 1471-4175

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-07-2014-0036

Abstract

Purpose:
The purpose of this paper is to find optimal solutions for conceptual design automation, which can be integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM) support for construction automation. Problems relating ostensibly to failures in computational support for the conceptual design stage are well-documented in extant literature. These failures are multifarious and significant, with several deficiencies being acknowledged in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Whilst acknowledging this, extant literature has highlighted the importance of computational design in the AEC industry; and failures in this area include the need to strengthen the congruent links and support mechanisms in order to exploit the opportunities presented by new computational design methods. Given this, it is postulated that the application of generative design could enhance the design experience by assisting designers with the iterative generation of alternatives and parameterisation (change management) processes. Moreover, as BIM applications are increasingly providing comprehensive support for modelling and management, then additional synergies could be examined for further exploitation.

Design/methodology/approach:
This paper focusses on the potential for developing an interactive BIM environment that purposefully adopts generative design as a method of computational design for the early design stages. This research facilitates the automation of the conceptual architectural design process, using BIM as the central conduit for enhancing the integration of the whole building design process (including design interfaces). This approach is designed to improve designers’ cognition and collaboration during the conceptual architectural design process.

Findings:
This paper evaluates the existing methods and decision support mechanisms, and it introduces the potential of combining different concepts into a single environment (generative design/BIM).

Originality/value:
This research is novel, in that it critically appraises virtual generative workspaces using BIM as the central conduit. The outcome and intervention of this research forms a theoretical basis for the development of a “proof of concept” prototype, which actively engages generative design into a single dynamic BIM environment to support the early conceptual design process.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: BIM, IT/Design, Computer-based environment, Conceptual design, Generative design, Parametric design
Subjects: G500 Information Systems
K200 Building
Department: Faculties > Engineering and Environment > Architecture and Built Environment
Depositing User: Paul Burns
Date Deposited: 09 Nov 2017 10:49
Last Modified: 10 Oct 2019 19:00
URI: http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/32485

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