Module 5

ICT (Information, Communication and Technology) for Sustainable Construction:

Building Information modelling – Introduction to BIM, concepts and benefits, BIM for construction
scheduling, cost estimation and construction management.

Building Automation – Concepts, components of BA, applications of BA for functional efficiency of

buildings.

Building Information Model (BIM)

A building Information Model or BIM is a 3D virtual model of a construction project. The BIM models
represent the actual geometry of building elements. It is the method of digitally generating and handling
knowledge during the life cycle of building projects. It is the interactive representation of any element of
the asset constructed. It facilitates a shared knowledge-sharing network continually updated at critical
points, with every component detailed during the development, planning, and construction processes.

Why BIM?
BIM is the practice of combining 3D models of the different (architectural, structural, energy, electrical,
etc.) disciplines into a standardized model to ensure continuity across a commercial project planning, design,
and development. BIM, a new approach to design and development, allows designers to refine cost estimates
based on the construction process’s fundamental components and projections. BIM also provides better
models and more significant contact with the customer from the initial design level. In contrast to the
conventional 2D approach to tendering, design, and construction, the adoption of BIM gives contractors
some advantages.

1. BIM software strengthens team management and collaboration, allowing different group participants
to quickly change the planning and development processes.
2. For accurate project cost estimates, faster planning, and to increase the overall management and
maintenance of the site, BIM models produce valuable data for contractors.
3. BIM decreases the time required for rework, with several defects found before development starts.
Digital projects illustrate disagreements, allowing early rectification of concerns and saving time on-
site during the development process. This reduction in rework could also enable contractors to save
cash on costly professional fees.

BIM in Construction:

BIM in construction is the use of digital 3D models during the construction process. BIM has been widely
used in architecture and engineering for more than twenty years, but BIM in construction has only begun to
gain momentum in the past five. BIM collaboration software now makes it easy to put the benefits of BIM to
work in construction by putting models into the hands of the entire project team in a coordinated fashion to
accelerate reviews and identify and resolve clashes earlier.

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BENEFITS OF BIM IN A CONSTRUCTION PROJECT:

With BIM technologies, all buildings can be built, models developed, or whole building details captured in
one model. BIM for Design and Development is very much advantageous. In the context of a virtual model,
you can easily add material forms, heights, features, and other parameters representing the elements of a
building. There are several benefits, some of which appear below.

Better Teamwork: You will keep updated on even the slightest improvement with BIM’s collaboration
capability. All concerned from engineers to contractors would be upgraded to even minor practicable
enhancements in the building’s construction. This simplifies teamwork and governance even more than
conventional concept approaches.

Real-time Visualization: One of the fundamental difficulties with paper projects, or even 2D designs, is
that the whole of a concept is not encapsulated. In a real-world situation, the project cannot always visualize.
Customers can also find designs unimpressive for this purpose. By comparison, BIM enables any part of a
project to be compiled into one complete format, including comprehensive floor plans and 3D drawings.
Recreations given by BIM can likewise permit clients to picture their projects in actual circumstances. This
empowers clients to envision their tasks on various occasions of the day, including the cumulative
performance of resources. Also, with the assistance of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality, you can see
your whole plan before you even go into development.

Quick clash detection: Project models are produced independently by architects, structural engineers, MEP
engineers (HVAC, electrical, and plumbing), environmental engineers, and other professionals. Once all the
models have been incorporated into the BIM modelling, its starts the process of clash detection. The clash
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detection method determines where the separate models clash with one another, where components from one
model overlap the elements of models from other disciplines of architect-engineering design.

Better level of work done: Time is crucial for construction in the AEC market. With BIM, there won’t be
any waste as long on tasks are organized in such a concise way. In BIM, each object is linked to a database.
Therefore, each adjustment made to one part of a product will be made to other versions. Thus, the
adjustment is then applied to the accompanying 3D models if, for example, you draw a line on a plan by
using BIM. It is then added to the building schedule and information immediately. Essentially, any edit you
make is done at every point of the project. This ensures that the whole manufacturing chain can be speeded
up and workers’ wages can be saved. That also provides that the acceptance times of the customer are
increased.

Closer to sustainability: Utilizing BIM as an essential part of configuration implies that you can coordinate
maintainability into your plan cycle. Under conventional plan and development measures, there is a need to
do ecological investigations after the project was finished. If any issues emerged, it would be both expensive
and troublesome. BIM, by correlation, permits clients to render environmental investigations. Anyone can
investigate viewpoints like structure direction, energy use, and sunlight. With BIM, sustainability turns into
a vital part of the planning cycle will be able to look at energy proficiency, waste control, water
management, and many more. Furthermore, discovering issues in investigations no longer sets the planning
cycle back you can make fast and straightforward virtual models instead of redesigning them. Also, a paper-
free AC environment with cloud storage and collaborative processes can be developed.

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 BIM IN CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULING

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a powerful tool that can be used to facilitate the construction scheduling
process.

1. Model Creation and Development:

The first step in construction scheduling using BIM is to create and develop a comprehensive 3D model of
the project. This model should include all of the relevant information about the project, including the
building design, site layout, and any other relevant data. The model should be created using BIM software,
such as Autodesk Revit or Trimble SketchUp, and should be as detailed and accurate as possible.

2. Task Identification and Sequencing:

Once the 3D model has been created, the next step is to identify all of the necessary tasks that need to be
completed during the construction process. This includes tasks such as excavation, foundation pouring,
framing, roofing, electrical and plumbing installation, and finishing work. Each task should be assigned a
duration and a start and end date. Once all tasks have been identified, they should be sequenced in the
correct order, taking into account any dependencies between tasks.

3. Resource Allocation:
The next step is to allocate the necessary resources to each task. This includes labor, equipment, and
materials. The BIM model can be used to determine the amount of labor required for each task, as well as
the specific equipment and materials needed. This information can then be used to create a resource
allocation plan that ensures that all tasks have the necessary resources available when they are needed.

4. Schedule Optimization:
Once the tasks have been sequenced and the resources allocated, the schedule can be optimized to ensure
that the project is completed as efficiently as possible. This involves adjusting the task durations and start
and end dates to minimize the overall project duration while still ensuring that all tasks are completed in
the correct order and with the necessary resources.

5. Communication and Collaboration:

Finally, effective communication and collaboration are essential for successful construction scheduling
using BIM. All stakeholders, including contractors, subcontractors, architects, and owners, should have
access to the BIM model and the construction schedule. This allows for real-time collaboration and
communication, which can help to ensure that the project stays on track and that any issues are addressed
promptly.

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 BIM IN COST ESTIMATION
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a process that involves creating digital models of building structures and
analyzing various aspects of a construction project before its actual construction. Cost estimation using BIM
involves several steps,

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM) Creation: The first step in cost estimation using BIM is to create a
digital model of the building structure. BIM modeling is a process that involves creating a 3D model of a
building structure using specialized software, which allows for detailed visualization and analysis of the
building structure. This digital model includes detailed information about the building, including the
architectural design, mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) systems, and structural elements.

2. Quantification and Costing: The next step in the cost estimation process is to quantify and cost the various
components of the building structure. BIM software allows for the extraction of detailed information from
the digital model, which includes quantities and cost estimates of materials, equipment, and labor required
for the construction project.

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3. Accurate and Efficient Quantity Takeoff: BIM software can be used to automate the quantity takeoff
process, which involves identifying and quantifying the materials required for the construction project.
This automated process helps to eliminate errors and inconsistencies, which are common in traditional
manual takeoff methods.

4. Integration of Cost Data: The cost data obtained from the quantity takeoff process can be integrated into
the BIM model to create a cost estimate. The BIM software can be used to develop detailed cost estimates
for each component of the building structure, including labor, materials, and equipment.

5. 4D BIM Simulation: BIM software can also be used to create a 4D BIM simulation, which involves
incorporating the construction schedule into the BIM model. This helps to analyze the impact of the
construction schedule on the project cost, and identify any areas where cost savings can be achieved.

6. Analysis and Reporting: The final step in cost estimation using BIM is to analyze the cost estimate data
and generate reports. BIM software can be used to generate detailed cost estimate reports, which include
detailed breakdowns of the costs associated with each component of the building structure. This helps to
identify areas where cost savings can be achieved and allows for better project management.

BIM IN CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

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BIM Process:

The information Delivery Cycle provides a logical framework for the production of pertinent information at
discrete stages of the whole building lifecycle. The decision to build, extend, demolish or refurbish will be
as a result of a response to identified need. This in turn leads to a client brief and client clearly
communicating to the supply chain their information needs.
The client is responsible for supplying different types of information requirements related to the delivery or
operational phase of an asset. This information can vary, depending on what is of value to the client. These
requirements should be expressed in such a way that they can be incorporated into project-related
appointments or instructions and passed along to the designers, engineers, contractors and suppliers.

BIM EXECUTION PLAN (BEP):

When implementing BIM in a project, the project team should, as soon as possible, plan how BIM is to be
executed. This plan is known as BIM execution plan (BEP).

A BEP has four steps:

1) Identify high value BIM uses during project planning, design, construction and operational phases
2) Design the BIM execution process by creating process maps
3) Define the BIM deliverables in the form of information exchanges
4) Develop the infrastructure in the form of contracts, communication, procedures, technology and
quality control to support the implementation

The goal for developing this structured procedure is to stimulate planning and direct communication by the
project team during the early phases of a project. The team leading the planning process should include
members from all the organizations with a significant role in the project. Since there is no single best
method for BIM implementation on every project, each team must effectively design a tailored execution
strategy by understanding the project goals, the project characteristics, and the capabilities of the team
members.

Step 1: Identify BIM Goals and Uses

In this step, the value of BIM on the project and for the project team members is clearly defined, by defining
measurable goals for BIM implementation. These goals should be linked to project performance and relate
to the team’s capabilities. When the goals have been defined, specific BIM uses can be identified, to aid
these goals.

Step 2: Design the BIM Execution Process

In this step, the BIM process is mapped. High level map showing the sequencing and interaction between
BIM uses applied in the project, so the team members understands how their work processes interact with
the processes performed by other parties. For each BIM use, the responsible team member designs a detailed
process map, for example a map of clash detection.

Step 3: Develop Information Exchanges

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Next step is to define the information exchange between team members. Here the goal is to define what the
author of the information is to deliver and what the receiver can expect to receive. In this step, a level of
development is defined for each use, and for each phase of the project.

Step 4: Define Supporting Infrastructure for BIM Implementation

At this stage, the necessary items and functions of the project have been identified. In this step the necessary
infrastructure is defined, which should address software, hardware, quality control procedures, contract
language, coordinates, naming procedures, FTP servers, project viewer etc.

BIM MATURITY LEVELS

BIM maturity levels are used to describe the maturity a BIM project. They are useful in that they identify
what the supply chain is expected to deliver, while the client can clearly understand what the supply chain is
offering.

Level 0: PRE BIM

This stage is the starting point, the status before the implementation of BIM, and means no collaboration
between project team and is defined as unmanaged CAD. 2D documentation is most likely used to share
information. Though 3D visualizations can be used, 2D is the basis for all documents. Quantities, cost
estimates and specifications are generally not linked to the visualizations model or documentation. In this
stage, there is no digital collaboration. The output is paper drawings or electronic prints, or mixture of both.

Level 1: Object based modelling

Object-based 3D parametric software tool is used to produce models. Users produce models within all stages
of a construction, and the model is the basis for 2D documentation and 3D visualization. The difference
between stage 0 and 1 are minor process changes and contractual relations. Typically, in stage 1 a mixture of
3D CAD, for concept work, and 2D CAD for documentation and product information. Electronic sharing of
data is carried out from a common data environment, often managed by the contractor. Collaboration
between different disciplines does not occur.

Level 2: Collaborative BIM

In this stage, different disciplines are actively cooperating with others through a model based collaboration
process. The collaboration often occurs through a cloud based application. Contractual amendments become
necessary and models can be linked to various analysis tools. Processes are assessed through the models.
Each discipline is building up their own model, instead of single shared model. The collaboration appears
through information exchange between disciplines, which becomes the crucial aspect of this level. Design
information is shared through a common file format (such as IFC and BCF), within a Common Data
Environment (CDE). This enables organisations to combine data with their own model and use the
information onwards.

Level 3: Integrated BIM (iBIM)

In this level, semantically-rich network based integrated models are created, shared and maintained
collaboratively through the project life-cycle phases. Models in this stage become interdisciplinary nD
models, where complex analyses at early stages of design and construction are allowed. Model deliverables
include business intelligence, lean construction principles, green policies and whole life-cycle costing. The
Project Lifecycle is now phase-less. In this stage, major changes are necessary on contractual relationships,
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risk allocation models and procedural flows. A shared interdisciplinary model is necessary to provide two-
way access to project stakeholders, which will eventually facilitate into Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)
The precise details and aspects of Level 3 are yet to be defined, but are likely to be centred around open
standards and will require new legal frameworks.

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BUILDING AUTOMATION

Concepts, components of BA, applications of BA for functional efficiency of buildings.

Building Automation Systems (BAS) is an intelligent system of both hardware and software, connecting
heating, venting and air conditioning system (HVAC), lighting, security, and other systems to communicate
on a single platform.

Building Automation Systems provide convenient access to information on equipment performance and
utility metering. This way the automation system is delivering crucial information on the operational
performance of a building as well as enhancing the safety and comfort of the occupants..

The main purposes of building automation systems are reducing energy consumption, reducing maintenance
costs, improving occupants’ comfort and productivity, and extending the life cycle of the utilities.

FUNCTIONSOF BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEM

Function of the building automation system (BAS):/Benefits/objectives

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The primary function of a BAS is to provide control of heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting
and other critical building systems

 Energy management: The BAS monitors and controls energy consumption in the building by
adjusting HVAC and lighting systems based on occupancy, temperature, and other factors
 Comfort control: The BAS maintains a comfortable indoor environment by monitoring and adjusting
temperature, humidity, and ventilation.
 Security and safety: The BAS monitors and controls security systems, such as access control and
video surveillance, as well as fire safety systems, such as smoke detectors and sprinklers.
 Fault detection and diagnostics: The BAS detects and diagnoses faults in building systems, such as
malfunctioning equipment or sensors, and alerts building operators to take corrective action.
 Data analytics and reporting: The BAS collects and analyzes data on building systems performance,
energy consumption, and occupant behavior, and generates reports to help building operators make
informed decisions.
 Remote access and control: The BAS allows building operators to remotely access and control
building systems from a central location, such as a computer or smartphone.

Components of BAS:
Building automation systems usually have 5 components.

1. Sensors
Sensors are devices that keep track of the humidity, temperature, lighting levels, how many people are in the
room, if there is smoke in the rooms, and other parameters. After gathering this information, sensors
transmit them to the controllers.

2. Controllers
Controllers are the brain of the building’s automation system. They collect all of the information from the
sensors and according to that information, send commands to all connected systems, like HVAC systems,
lighting systems, and more.

3. Output devices
When the controller sends out a command, relays and actuators of the specific systems follow the new
instructions or requirements. For example, turn on the heating or air conditioning at 6 am so when people
come to work at 8 am, it’s properly heated or air-conditioned.

4. Communication protocols
Every building automation system uses specific language to connect each individual component. Protocols
such as BACnet and Modus help each component to send and receive information in order to adjust its
settings and execute commands.

5. Terminal interface
Every BAS has a user interface or terminal from which building and facility operators can access it. This
terminal helps users to understand the information transferred between each component and gives the
opportunity for making adjustments manually.

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The displays are visual with photo-realistic graphics. These graphics usually show each floor plan with each
piece of equipment.

Which systems can be part of the BAS?

Some of the systems that can be incorporated in the BAS are as follows:

1. HVAC systems
2. Rooftop units
3. Electrical systems, including lighting
4. Security systems, including surveillance cameras and alarms
5. Plumbing systems
6. Fire alarms, and other emergency systems
7. Elevators and more.

BUILDING AUTOMATION IN WATER CONSERVATION

Building automation systems (BAS) can play an important role in water conservation by
optimizing water usage in a building. Some of the applications of BAS in water conservation
include:

1. Leak detection: BAS can monitor water usage in a building and detect leaks in plumbing
and irrigation systems. By alerting building operators to leaks, BAS can help prevent
water waste and damage to building infrastructure.

2. Irrigation control: BAS can monitor and control irrigation systems to ensure that plants
and landscapes are watered efficiently. By adjusting irrigation based on weather
conditions and plant water needs, BAS can reduce water waste and maintain healthy
landscapes.

3. Greywater recycling: BAS can control greywater recycling systems that collect and treat
non-potable water from sinks, showers, and other sources for reuse in irrigation or other
non-potable applications. By recycling greywater, BAS can reduce the demand for potable
water and save energy associated with water treatment and distribution.

4. Water usage monitoring: BAS can monitor water usage in a building, including potable
water and non-potable water. By tracking water usage, BAS can identify oppo rtunities to
optimize water efficiency and reduce waste.

5. Cooling tower optimization: Building automation systems can optimize cooling tower
operations to minimize water consumption, including managing cooling cycles and
managing blowdown water.

6. Water fixture control: Building automation systems can control water usage in bathrooms,
kitchens, and other areas to reduce waste and prevent overuse.

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 7. Pool and spa management: Building automation systems can optimize pool and spa
operations, such as managing filtration, temperature control, and water chemistry, to
reduce water usage.

8. Boiler and chiller optimization: Building automation systems can optimize boiler and
chiller operations, such as managing the supply and return temperature setpoints, to
reduce water usage.

9. Wastewater treatment: Building automation systems can control the treatment and
disposal of wastewater, including managing the use of chemicals, energy, and water in the
treatment process.

BUILDING AUTOMATION IN ENERGY MANAGEMENT

1. Lighting Control: Automated lighting systems can reduce energy consumption by turning
off lights when rooms are not occupied, and dimming or brightening lights based on
daylight availability. This helps to save energy and reduce costs while maintaining a
comfortable lighting environment.

2. HVAC Control: Building automation systems can monitor and control the heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to optimize energy usage. This includes
adjusting temperature setpoints based on occupancy and outside temperature, and using
occupancy sensors to reduce energy consumption in unoccupied areas.

3. Renewable Energy Integration: Building automation systems can integrate renewable

energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, into the building's energy
management system. This helps to reduce dependence on traditional energy sources and
lower energy costs.

4. Load Shedding: Load shedding is the practice of reducing power consumption during
peak demand periods. Building automation systems can help to impleme nt load shedding
by automatically reducing the energy consumption of non -critical systems, such as
lighting or HVAC, during peak periods.

5. Energy Monitoring: Building automation systems can monitor energy usage in real -time
to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for optimization. This data can be used to
identify areas of high energy consumption and adjust building systems accordingly to
reduce energy usage.

6. Energy Storage Management: Energy storage systems, such as batteries or thermal

storage, can be integrated with building automation systems to manage energy usage
during peak demand periods. This helps to reduce energy costs and minimize strain on the
electrical grid.

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7. Demand Response: Building automation systems can participate in demand response
programs by automatically reducing energy consumption during periods of high demand.
This helps to maintain grid stability and reduce energy costs.

8. Energy Efficient Equipment: Building automation systems can control and monitor
energy-efficient equipment, such as Energy Star rated appliances, to ensure that they are
operating at peak efficiency. This helps to reduce energy consumption and lower
operating costs.

9. Time-of-Use (TOU) Scheduling: Building automation systems can use TOU scheduling to
adjust energy usage based on the time of day and utility rates. This helps to lower energy
costs by reducing energy consumption during peak periods when rates are highest.

10. Plug Load Management: Building automation systems can monitor and control plug loads,
such as computers and other electronic devices, to reduce energy consumption when they
are not in use. This helps to reduce energy usage and lower operating costs.

BUILDIING AUTOMATION IN HVAC(HEATING,VENTILATION AND

AIRCONDITIONING)
1. Temperature control: BAS can monitor and adjust temperature levels in different zones of
a building based on occupancy and time of day, ensuring optimal comfort for occupants.

2. Humidity control: BAS can monitor and adjust humidity levels in different zones of a
building based on occupancy and outdoor conditions, reducing the risk of mold growth
and ensuring optimal comfort for occupants.

3. Airflow control: BAS can adjust airflow rates in different zones of a building based on
occupancy and indoor air quality (IAQ) levels, ensuring opti mal IAQ for occupants.

4. Ventilation control: BAS can adjust ventilation rates in different zones of a building
based on occupancy and outdoor air quality (OAQ) levels, ensuring optimal IAQ for
occupants.

5. Energy management: BAS can optimize HVAC equipment operation based on occupancy
and outdoor conditions, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

6. Fault detection and diagnostics: BAS can detect and diagnose faults in HVAC equipment
and alert building operators to take corrective action, redu cing maintenance costs and
equipment downtime.

7. Remote access and control: BAS allows building operators to remotely access and control
HVAC systems from a central location, improving operational efficiency and reducing the
workload on building staff.

8. Demand response: BAS can participate in demand response programs, reducing HVAC
equipment operation during peak demand periods to reduce strain on the electrical grid.
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 9. Smart scheduling: BAS can schedule HVAC equipment operation based on occupancy and
time of day, reducing energy consumption during periods of low occupancy.

10. Predictive maintenance: BAS can use data analytics and machine learning to predict when
HVAC equipment is likely to fail and schedule maintenance before a failure occurs,
reducing maintenance costs and equipment downtime.

CASE STUDY – CAPITAL TOWER, SINGAPORE.

Capital Tower is home to several intelligent energy efficiency systems, inclusive of an energy recovery
wheel system in its air-conditioning unit; allowing cool air to be recovered to maintain the chillers‟
efficiency. Capital Tower is fitted with motion detectors within the lift lobby and toilets to conserve energy
To create a reduction in water usage, the building utilises condensation from the air handling unit, while
specific devices monitor the carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, ensuring optimal air quality and
distribution. This building is an exceptional example of intelligent workplaces, which are designed to reduce
their carbon footprint by addressing sustainable solutions for the impact of employee working habits and
needs, and the natural climate

Model Questions
Enumerate the role of building automation in energy conservation?
Describe the implementation of BIM in construction scheduling.
Illustrate the application of building automation in water conservation
Explain the process of BIM in cost optimisation.
What are the benefits of BIM?
Explain the components of building automation system?

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