The construction industry faces unprecedented challenges due to rapid urbanization and the growing demand for sustainable residential projects. Modular construction has emerged as a promising solution to address the global housing crisis by offering efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and shorter construction times. However, its adoption remains slow due to inherent complexities and a significant lack of knowledge regarding logistical, manufacturing, and assembly aspects during the early stages of projects. This research focuses on the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, specifically the use of BIM-based configuration platforms, as a tool to address the knowledge gaps necessary for the development of modular residential building projects in their initial stages, thereby facilitating their adoption.
The study aims to understand, design, and propose a BIM-based configuration platform to address existing information gaps related to transportation, manufacturing, and installation that hinder the adoption of modular methodologies. To achieve this, a review of the existing academic literature on the use of configurators in construction was conducted, identifying their capabilities and the various fields they impact. Additionally, the study reviews and compares available configurators on the market to identify criteria for designing and proposing a configuration system for a modular residential building, which will be implemented in a real world case.
The Design-Science Research (DSR) methodology was selected for its iterative process and continuous feedback, ideal for developing innovative and practical solutions. This approach ensures that the solutions are theoretically sound and practically applicable, potentially improving the efficiency and customization of modular construction projects.
The results indicate that BIM-based configuration platforms have significant potential to enhance the adoption of modular construction by facilitating information coordination, reducing time and costs in the initial stages due to their ability to automate the generation of design options and provide information for subsequent stages in the lifecycle. They also allow for the comparison of different design options and customization to meet project needs.
In conclusion, this thesis aims to contribute to the field of construction engineering by deepening the understanding of the potential of BIM-based configuration platforms to improve the adoption of modular construction from both theoretical and practical perspectives.
| Date | 21 Oct 2024 |
|---|
| Original language | American English |
|---|
| Awarding Institution | - École de technologie supérieure
|
|---|
| Supervisor | Ivanka Iordanova (Supervisor) |
|---|
Llave Ponce De León, B. (Author),
Iordanova (Supervisor),
21 Oct 2024Student thesis: Master's thesis › Master in Engineering: Construction Engineering