Cadalyst AEC Tech News #129 (October 7, 2004)
6 Oct, 2004 By: Michael DakanWe've reported on GeoPraxis' contributions to building information modeling extensions previous issues of AEC Tech News (March 4, 2002, and August 5, 2004), when the company introduced its Green Building Studio software and Web site. This product greatly expanded the usefulness of BIM (building information model) throughout the design, construction, and operation lifecycle by enabling building engineering analysis and design in the 3D BIM.
The system establishes an engineering data XML schema you can utilize by way of several engineering software tools. The Green Building Studio Web site offers some engineering functions as server-based applications you can access for free. You perform building energy use analysis on the BIM so the BIM team can quickly see the energy use implications of design decisions from the earliest stages of design throughout the building lifecycle.
GeoPraxis Releases BIM Adoption Survey
GeoPraxis was in the news again recently to announce the release of
a survey on the adoption rate of BIM and 3D building modeling in
architectural and engineering design practice. A team from
GeoPraxis carried out the study, sponsored by Pacific Gas and
Electric and with assistance from McGraw-Hill Construction,
Autodesk, and Bentley Systems.
A total of 585 architects and engineers responded to the survey. Of
the CAD-using respondents, 52% reported that they produce a 3D
model on 75% or more of their projects. They reported that the
promise of integrating whole-building energy analysis, cost
estimating, energy code compliance, and LEED certification were key
drivers in the expanded use of 3D CAD and BIM in their firms. They
also said they would be using these tools more if clients and
building team members simply asked for BIM models instead of 2D
drawings. They suggested that municipal building departments,
utility efficiency programs, and green building rating
organizations could become major instruments of change for the AEC
industry.
This relates strongly to the report issued by NIST (National
Institute of Standards and Technology) that addressed the
staggering costs associated with inadequate interoperability in the
AEC industry, which we discussed in the September 16, 2004, issue of AEC
Tech News. BIM tools and techniques are potentially an important part of the
answer to the $15.8 billion annual cost to the AEC industry
estimated by the NIST report.
Design Community Sees BIM Potential
Design professionals responding to the GeoPraxis survey offered a
wish list of tools that would encourage them to use BIM and 3D CAD
more often. In addition to energy analysis, cost estimating, energy
code compliance, and LEED certification, they desire building
systems and materials selection; HVAC, plumbing, electrical and
lighting design; ADA compliance; fire code analysis; and structural
analysis, among other features. The demand for new BIM tools and
uses is growing and gaining ground as more people discover the
usefulness of BIM — and the potential of a complete BIM model.
Market penetration and use of BIM software seems to be occurring
faster than anyone predicted, and is accelerating at a greater rate
than predicted.
The complete survey results are available on the GeoPraxis Web site, complete with the survey questionnaire and detailed results of each
question. It's interesting reading and offers a glimpse of what
would have to be considered the leading edge of the movement toward
BIM adoption.
As GeoPraxis was releasing its survey results, it was also
announcing its expanded Market Research and Consulting practice,
headed by industry veteran Thomas Conlon. The survey is an example
of the kind of work the group can do, as well as a tool for
GeoPraxis' own marketing and promotion efforts for Green Building
Studio. GeoPraxis Market Research and Consulting is available to
assist with strategic planning, market research surveys, and focus
group projects using cutting-edge survey and analysis tools.
Exciting things are happening in the world of 3D CAD and BIM, and
GeoPraxis' tools and enhancements to BIM are a significant part of
that, and a product of the movement to realize the potential of
BIM.