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Generative BIM workspace for AEC conceptual design automation: prototype development

Sepehr Abrishami (School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK)
Jack Goulding (School of Architecture and Built Environment, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK)
Farzad Rahimian (Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK)

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management

ISSN: 0969-9988

Article publication date: 9 July 2020

Issue publication date: 15 March 2021

1471

Abstract

Purpose

The integration and automation of the whole design and implementation process have become a pivotal factor in construction projects. Problems of process integration, particularly at the conceptual design stage, often manifest through a number of significant areas, from design representation, cognition and translation to process fragmentation and loss of design integrity. Whilst building information modelling (BIM) applications can be used to support design automation, particularly through the modelling, amendment and management stages, they do not explicitly provide whole design integration. This is a significant challenge. However, advances in generative design now offer significant potential for enhancing the design experience to mitigate this challenge.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach outlined in this paper specifically addresses BIM deficiencies at the conceptual design stage, where the core drivers and indicators of BIM and generative design are identified and mapped into a generative BIM (G-BIM) framework and subsequently embedded into a G-BIM prototype. This actively engages generative design methods into a single dynamic BIM environment to support the early conceptual design process. The developed prototype followed the CIFE “horseshoe” methodology of aligning theoretical research with scientific methods to procure architecture, construction and engineering (AEC)-based solutions. This G-BIM prototype was also tested and validated through a focus group workshop engaging five AEC domain experts.

Findings

The G-BIM prototype presents a valuable set of rubrics to support the conceptual design stage using generative design. It benefits from the advanced features of BIM tools in relation to illustration and collaboration (coupled with BIM's parametric change management features).

Research limitations/implications

This prototype has been evaluated through multiple projects and scenarios. However, additional test data is needed to further improve system veracity using conventional and non-standard real-life design settings (and contexts). This will be reported in later works.

Originality/value

Originality and value rest with addressing the shortcomings of previous research on automation during the design process. It also addresses novel computational issues relating to the implementation of generative design systems, where, for example, instead of engaging static and formal description of the domain concepts, G-BIM actively enhances the applicability of BIM during the early design stages to generate optimised (and more purposeful) design solutions.

Keywords

Citation

Abrishami, S., Goulding, J. and Rahimian, F. (2021), "Generative BIM workspace for AEC conceptual design automation: prototype development", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 28 No. 2, pp. 482-509. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-04-2020-0256

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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