
2019 CSCE Annual Conference - Laval (Greater Montreal) Conference
Dr. John Gambatese, Oregon State University
As one of the most promising developments, Building Information Modeling (BIM) enables the possibility of automating the design process. Prior research efforts have largely focused on permanent design components with minimal attention given to temporary structures, such as concrete formwork and scaffolding. Nevertheless, the design processes for temporary structures are repetitive and often tedious, which require consideration of multiple parameters of individual permanent components, the latest design standards, design methods, procedures, and available materials. This paper proposes a BIM-based tool to help with planning and designing concrete formwork. The tool integrates the information associated with individual elements in BIM models with design processes recommended by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) through an Application Programming Interface (API) in BIM extension. Using the tool, planners will be able to decide the most applicable formwork design based on the design of the permanent facility along with the availability of construction materials, site conditions, and safety considerations. The research also provides a new tool for contractors when planning concrete operations and extends the BIM design scope.