Developing a framework for prefabrication assesment using BIM

Abstract

Building Information Modelling is a disruptive technology in construction at this precise moment, and the opportunity to take advantage of the technology by combining it with prefabrication should not be wasted.

The adoption of BIM represents a complete revolution in the construction environment, since it changes construction processes in every aspect. The purpose of this project is to present the prefabrication components clearly, for relating them with the most conceptual and theoretical concepts used in construction. This will help the designer for the design of building components. Then, BIM benefits are presented with the potential of using this technology.

Designing a component is only the first step in prefabrication procedure, since the manufacturing process can seriously affect to the whole construction process. The different techniques are explored, paying special attention to 3D-Printing and Contour Crafting. One more time, these technologies align with prefabrication principles.

In order to achieve the highest efficiency in the construction process, methodologies such as Buildability, Function and Structure Sharing and Mass Customization are presented, as well as their possible implementation in the construction field.

Finally, some real case studies which employ prefabrication methods are studied and analyzed according to the framework and the statements made before. The project also proposes some recommendations for those who plan to conduct such studies in future.