DESIGN AND CONSTRUCT A

SUSTAINABLE BUILDING EMPHASIZING

BIM TECHNOLOGY AND OFF-SITE
CONSTRUCTION METHODS

EID101 SECTION B

By:
Guy Bar-Yosef
QiTong Han
Yingzhi Hao
John Ho
William Popper
Daniel Smith
Sherry Wang

SUMMARY
Our task is to design and construct a sustainable building emphasizing BIM technology
and off-site construction methods. We are approaching this problem in a very methodical way,
going through the engineering design process thoroughly because this is our first time going
through it. Therefore this project has two parallel goals: the first is the problem identified
above, and the second is familiarization and application of the engineering design process as a
whole. Any application of the engineering design process is done through our defined problems
and goals and as such its is our main focus of this report.
Each member of our team conducted their own research and afterward we pooled
together our knowledge. Among the research conducted are sustainable buildings, design and
construction needs, different BIM software, and the different construction methods, specifically
off-site construction. With this research we have been able to design the basic outline of the
structure we have been tasked with. Over the coming weeks we will have the chance to further
refine the structure and in so doing achieve our goals of learning the engineering design process
through the design and construction of a sustainable building.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page............. 0
Summary...... 1
List of Figures, Tables, and Drawings... 3
Introduction........ 4
Design Process.............. 5
Discussion........ 12
Conclusion 23
Reference...... 24
Appendix...

25

LIST OF FIGURES/TABLES/DRAWINGS
Project Schedule - pg. 5
By: Guy Bar Yosef,
QiTong Han,
Yingzhi Hao,
John Ho
Prioritized Customer Needs - pg. 6
By:QiTong Han,
Daniel Smith
Objective Tree

First Version - pg. 7

By: All group members contributed.
Second Version - pg. 8

By: All group members contributed.

Function Tree - pg. 9

By:QiTong Han,
Daniel Smith

Specification Table - pg. 10

By: Guy Bar Yosef,
QiTong Han,
Yingzhi Hao,
John Ho,
Daniel Smith

Research Table - pg. 11- 21

By: All group members contributed.

INTRODUCTION
Our task is to design and construct a sustainable building emphasizing BIM technology
and off-site construction methods. As this is the group's first encounter with the engineering
design process, we are approaching this problem methodically. We have conducted research on
software technologies, construction methods, and various other fields according to the decided
upon customer needs.
As of now (middle of week 6) we have all made preliminary individual designs which
can also be found at Appendix where every group members individual work is shown.

DESIGN PROCESS
We began the design process with a definition of the problem. After settling on an initial
definition we began planning our project schedule. The Project Schedule includes current and
updated lectures, dates, and overlapping tasks.

Group Schedule

With the schedule in hand we moved on to creating a need statement as well as

brainstorming potential customer needs. Over this period we updated our definition of the
5

problem and have for now settled on Design & Construct a sustainable building emphasizing
BIM technology and off-site construction methods.
From our initial brainstorming to now the defined customer needs have been refined and
prioritized with the table below representing the most updated result.

Prioritized Customer Needs

D(demand)
or W(wish)

Customer Needs

Importance
(1-10)

Safety(of the building,during construction, and for design)

10

Security

10

Zoning Compliance

10

Minimize the environmental impacts(of materials,of

construction methods,to the community, and to the users)

10

Accessibility/handicap users

10

Maximize constructability

10

Minimize construction and design cost

Maximize profit/revenue

Minimize maintenance

Ease of installation of equipment

Transportability of components

User comfort

10

Maximize affordability

Maximize aesthetic value

Our next step was building a objective tree. Our objective tree we built with emphasis on
sustainable construction and the incorporation of our customer needs. Similar to our customer
needs we updated our objective tree in order to stay relevant as we apprehended more of the
design and construction requirements. The second version of our objective tree in inspired
heavily from WBDG (Whole Building Design Guide) and their design objectives. Using their
6

eight design principles as our first steps of the graph we polished our objective tree. The two
versions of our objective tree are available below.

Objective Tree (First Version)

Objective Tree (Second Version)

After we modified our objective tree, we started to conduct market, literature and patent research
focusing on finding existing idea of sustainable building design and how to satisfy customer
needs.[More details in Research under Discussion]
After we identify, prioritize, and organize the objectives, we began developing the product
concept by focusing on two main goals: functions and specification table. And we first started
with looking for how the product could function. And functions should both include an action
verb and a noun representing the object on which the action verb takes place
8

Function Tree

And for the specification table, since our main goal now is looking from a broader view of
designing and constructing a sustainable building emphasizing BIM technology and off-site
construction methods, we did not focus on specific building that we will work on. Therefore, the
value in the Specification Table below is an estimate and range.

Specification Table
Metric

Value
9

Dimension

10 per floor in height

Sales price(Average price per sq ft) $580-$1760(co-op and condo)

Construction cost

$280-$450 / sq ft (2007)

Maintenance cost

Doorman - $50,000 a year per person.

Superintendent - $68,000 a year (full time).
Porter - $38,000 a year (full time).
Apartment maintenance fees - Between $50 - $1,000 dollars a month.

Design to permit Time

About 0.9months to 2.0 months

Construction Duration

About 10.1months to 13.4 months

Number of Floors

5
6

Number of Units

2 units - 20 units or more

Floor Area

30,000 ft2 total floor area

Average 6,000 ft2 per floor
Average 5,000 ft2 per floor

Lot Size

7,500 ft2
75x100

HAVC Efficiency Federal

Standard

Packed Units:
A/C: 14 SEER
H/P: 14 SEER, 8.0 HSPF
Split Systems:
A/C: 13 SEER
H/P: 14 SEER, 8.2 HSPF

Emergency and Standby Power

Systems

1. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in accordance with

Section.
2. Emergency and standby power generators shall not be located in the
same room as the main or primary electrical service equipment.

We are currently drawing conceptual sketches of the potential structural design using
various BIM softwares.

10

DISCUSSION
Defined Problem and goals: Design and construct a sustainable building emphasizing BIM
technology and off-site construction methods. A secondary goal through this problem is to
familiarize ourselves with the engineering design process and to be able to apply its principles to
all branches of engineering.
Assumptions and Constraints: There were a few constraints that we have to take into account
when designing our building. We had to look into the zoning requirements for our site. Our site
is a combination of three properties: 119 2nd Ave, 121 2nd Ave, and 123 2nd Ave. Combined,
we have a lot area of 7,500 ft2. These properties are within the R7A residential zoning with a
C5-1 commercial overlay. Zoning constraints include a floor-area ratio of 4.0 for residential
zoning and 2.0 for commercial overlay. Therefore, we are restricted to a total floor area of
30,000 ft2 of residential area and 15,000 ft2 of commercial area. In addition to floor area limits,
we have to work with a height limit. For this zoning area, the maximum height of the base is 65
and the building can be up to 80 tall. We would also have to include parking for 30% of
residents who will be living in this building. We also must work within an urban residential
environment and must take proactive steps to mitigate noise and air pollution in the area while
construction is underway.
Another factor we need to consider is sustainability. As an integral part of our problem
definition we need to apply it in the design process, the construction process, and the routine
maintenance and function of the structure. The needs of sustainability is given emphasis
throughout our research.

Research
Note: This research focuses on market, literature, patent, and satisfy customer needs. Under the
topic of each research is the name of the group member responsible for it.
Topic

Research

Safety
Of the building
During construction
Design

Maximizing Safety Research

1. Building a safety culture:
a. Use knowledge of risk management experts
11

By Guy Bar-Yosef

b. Safety has to start at the top and work its way down, holding
everyone from the executives to the individual foremen responsible.
c. Prequalify subcontractors for safety.
2. Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction. The 6-foot rule: Fall
protection is required when working at heights of 6 feet or more. It applies
at less than 6 foot when working with dangerous equipment. It may include
but not limited to: guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest
systems.
a. Ex: Leading Edge Safety (complaint with OSHA regulation):
i.
Personal fall arrest system: Raptor Trirex
ii.
Guardrail: USM-IBC Guardrail
iii.
Safety net systems: Raptor skynet
3. Ex: Hyatt Regency walkway collapse:
i.
Elevated walkways suspended from the ceiling collapsed due
to change in design plan. The contractor objected to the
original plan and modified it slightly, causing the disaster.
114 people killed.
ii.
The Disaster concluded with disqualification of a number of
engineering licenses, bankrupt firms, and many expensive
law-suits. Showcases the importance of professional
responsibilities.
iii.
What to keep in mind: When designing we need to keep in
mind practicality. We dont want to give a contractor an
excuse to change the original design, potentially leading to a
similar catastrophe.

Work Cited
Hyatt Regency Walkway Collapse
Adapted from material by the Department of Philosophy and Department of
Mechanical Engineering
Texas A&M University
NSF Grant Number DIR-9012252
(http://www.engineering.com/Library/ArticlesPage/tabid/85/ArticleID/175/Hyatt-R
egency-Walkway-Collapse.aspx)
12

Fall Protection in Construction

Occupational Safety and Health Administration 3146-05R 2015
U.S. Department of Labor
Leading Edge Safety
Leadingedgesafety.net
opyright 2016 Leading Edge Safety. All Rights Reserved.
Web Design in Kansas City by Lifted Logic
Minimize costs of
construction and design
Minimize time of
construction

By William Popper

Competitive Bidding
Contract Negotiation
Penalties for late completion
Incentives for quality
Labor
Efficiency decreases as complexity increases
Skilled crafts usually require union labor
Materials
Inventory management
Purchasing materials before they are used is wasteful (storage,
insurance, depreciation, changes in specifications)
On the other hand, bulk purchases are often discounted
Automate the materials management process
Use software to keep track of the schedule and inventory and
recommend new orders to be placed
Prefabrication of components usually reduces cost, provided
transportation is available.
Make use of recycled materials
Equipment
Suited to the site and scope of the project
Hendrickson, Chris. Project Management for Construction. Carnegie Mellon
University, 2000. Accessed 24 Sept 2016. (http://pmbook.ce.cmu.edu)

13

Minimize maintenance

By William Popper

Sustainable Design
Landscaping
Trees can provide shade in summer, keeping the building cool
Storing rainwater for irrigation
Natural ventilation/lighting
Additional insulation
Light colored roof
Fluorescent lighting
Use more durable materials
https://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/buscase_section2.pdf (also has strategies
for reducing initial costs)

Maximize profit and

revenue

Maximizing Profit and Revenue

By Guy Bar-Yosef

Offsite Modular Design:

Financially: as it utilizes manufacturing and material sourcing processes
more efficiently as compared to traditional construction practices.
Time-wise: offsite modular design has been proven to save up to 60% of
construction time, saving money as well as manpower.
As most of the construction is done indoors weather does not play a
factor and so the construction process experiences even less delays.
As the construction takes place in a controlled environment the
whole process is smoother and more efficient.
Lean Construction:
Philosophy whose goal is to minimize the amount of materials and time
wasted during the construction process.
Using strategic planning and constant oversight in order to create and update
a clear and concise understanding of project materials, thereby reducing
costs and time.
Requires everyone involved on project to work together, setting clear
objectives and benchmarks. Due to the need to have everything detailed, the
Lean Construction philosophy needs a coherent and thorough understanding
of customer needs and other possible constraints.

14

BIM:
Makes structural design efficient, relevant, and robust and in that way
maximizing the profit margins.
Allows planning of delivery more efficiently, that way organizing the
project better from the ground up.
Increases information flow and so minimizes miscommunications
throughout the construction process.
Also as the design intent is more clear the full picture is obtained
earlier and late variation costs are minimized.
Watch out: Need to train workers to use BIM correctly and efficiently.
Need to keep company with the correct and updated BIM standards
and procedures (possibly by hiring a BIM manager).

Work Cited
Off-Site Modular Construction
Affordable Structures
2015 Affordable Structures | All rights reserved | Sitemap | Designed and
developed by Bayshore Solutions
(https://affordablestructures.com/about-us/about-off-site-construction/)
Maximising Profit When Delivering In BIM
Article by : Mark Vaughan, MCIAT Senior Architectural Technologist
Brewer Smith Brewer Gulf
(http://bsbgulf.com/blog/maximising-profit-when-delivering-in-bim/)
An Introduction to Lean Construction
Conrad Mackie
http://www.buildingsguide.com/blog/introduction-lean-construction

15

Maximize value of
aesthetics
For users
For developers
For community

By Daniel Smith

The East Village has historic architecture, should design to compliment the
surrounding building styles
http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/2491.pdf?epi-content=
GENERIC
Examples of area architecture include:
- (a) Stuyvesant Polyclinic, one block to the north of the site, is a
historic site built in the neo-Italian Renaissance style
http://s-media.nyc.gov/agencies/lpc/lp/0924.pdf
- (b) St. Georges Ukrainian Catholic Church, one block to the south
of the site, was built in the Ukrainian Byzantine style
http://www.brama.com/stgeorge/history.html
Aesthetics can take into account and be combined with energy/resource
efficiency and sustainability aside from just making it a more attractive
place to live https://www.wbdg.org/resources/aestheticopportunities.php

Maximize constructability

By QiTong Han

Constructability- the ease with which the raw materials of the

construction process (labour, production, equipment, tools, materials and
installed equipment) can be brought together by a builder to complete the
project in a timely and economic mannerGlavinich (1995)
developing the project plan
- Construction schedule should be well-prepared (reduced project duration)
- Need to be updated on a regular basis
- Simplify design to a easily constructed project
- Standardization in design elements
laying out the site
- Initial site visit (help identify possible unforeseen problems and unusual site
conditions) [1]
- Eliminate working on high elevations, sites with steep grade changes, sites
with extreme weather conditions or environmental conditions (like
vegetation) or sites where multiple contractors are working
selecting major construction methods
- Prefabrication
- Eliminate doing construction under adverse weather conditions
- Innovation: Sequencing of equipment( reduce confusion and congestion on
site)
Lighting systems may be installed at an early stage to reduce the need for
temporary lighting.
Stairs and platforms may be erected at an early stage. That may also help
speeding up of work.
Methods like steam curing, ground freezing are some advances in
temporary construction systems.
Innovations in formwork, like flying formwork, ship form system are
16

easily erectable.
Advances in labour hand tools can increase mobility, accessibility, safety
and reliability like cordless power hand tools, automatic nailing gun etc.
more of machine driven than worker driven. (fully automated concrete
batch plants, remote controlled welding systems, automated concrete floor
finishers, spray robot for structural steel fire proofing)
Teamwork
- Communication with designers and constructors

[1]http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/capital/pd/documents/How_to_use_the_Co
nstructability_Guidelines.pdf
Tatum (1987)
Maximizing Constructability Contractor Panel Discussion Richard Hewitt, P.E.
State Construction Pavement Engineer
An Overview of Constructability: A Management Tool for Architects
Sharmin Khan
Copyright 2015 Scientific & Academic Publishing. All Rights Reserved.
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution International
License (CC BY).

17

Maximize comfort

By Yingzhi Hao

1. Windows[1]
Area: Maximum south-facing windows. Windows on east-, west-, and
north-facing walls should be minimized while still allowing for adequate
daylight.
Type: Low-emissivity glazing window. Advantage: reduce energy loss by
as much as 30% to 50%.
Conditions of Rooms
Temperature: 21 C (70 F) for living room; minimum of 18 C (64 F) for
other room.[2]
Sound: The sound level in the room should be less than 40dB.[3]
Air Flow
Prairie Dog Cave design (New Idea):

[1] "Energy-Efficient Windows." Department of Energy. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Sept.

2016.
(http://energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-windows)
[2] Hartley, Anne (1 March 2006). "Fuel Poverty". West Midlands Public Health
Observatory. Birmingham, UK: West Midlands Public Health Observatory.
Retrieved25 December 2011.
[3] @ASHAWeb. "Noise." Noise. ASHA, n.d. Web. 24 Sept. 2016.
(http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Noise/)

18

Affordability

By Sherry Wang

Site and user accessibility

ADA Accessibility
During
construction

By Daniel Smith

Minimize Environmental
Impact
Of materials
Of construction
methods
To the community
To the users

Lower the cost of production:

- design the building with more space ( same volume of the building but more
useful space)
- lower energy cost burden and improved health (like using some green
inexpensive product to build the house,like wood,solar power)
- The material used to build the building(using durable materials as paint,
building material, controlling the wildness of the war)
- The cost of construction workers: If the process of construction is easy and
not too much work will be helpful to lower the price.

ADA
- Residential part of the building isnt covered by ADA (apartments for lease
are not considered public accommodations)
- Still beneficial to design accessibility into the structural even when not
required, as it benefits users and thus in making the building a more
desirable place to stay, the owner as well
- Paths wide enough for wheelchairs, ramps, elevators, etc
- https://www.ada.gov/olderaccess.htm
- Commercial part covered by ADA Title III
- Need to provide reasonable accommodations for the disabled if not
excessively cost prohibitive
- Accommodations can take the form of ramps, paths wide enough for
wheelchairs, employee assistance (possibly curbside if the interior isnt
ADA in full or part) for anything not accessible (such as reaching things on
a high shelf or reading written materials)
- https://www.ada.gov/ada_title_III.htm 36.102 Application (a) (3) and
36.104 Definitions
During Construction
- If sidewalks need to be closed temporarily walkways with pedestrian ramps
can be provided to allow for accessibility around the site
- https://www.ada.gov/pcatoolkit/chap6toolkit.htm
Transport of materials likely done by trucks.
Minimize effect of truck traffic in community by making deliveries during
off-peak hours or minimizing the number of deliveries done.
Recycling water from showers, sinks, and rain can reduce water usage.
Solar?
Enviornmental Review Process:
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/planning/applicants/environmental-review-process.page
19

By John Ho

Ease of Equipment
Installation
HVAC systems
Plumbing
Electrical
Insulation
Automation
Communication

By Yingzhi Hao

Transportability of
components

By QiTong Han

Reducing the Environmental Impact of Construction by Using Renewable Materials

Mike Lawrence BRE Centre for Innovative Construction Materials, Department of
Architecture and Civil Engineering, University of Bath, UK
http://isobioproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/JRM-2015-Lawrence.pdf

HVAC
Energy Efficient Requirement: 2015 Federal Regional Standards for
Heating and Cooling Products
Electric
Construct main wires under the floor
National Electrical Code (NEC)
Plumbing
Construct main pipes under the floor
Insulation
Heat insulation: Patent US6860082 B1, advantage: Combination of
traditional foam and new vacuum package. Light and thin. (For external
wall only)
Sound insulation: Patent 6112851
Automation
Automated lighting control
Automatic fire alarm and sprinkler system

Balance between customer services and transport cost

Minimize complex load building constraints and complex shift patterns
Have a network-wide transport plan
Keep track of transportation type, product, travel time,tools, and distances
elements should be delivered into position directly from the transportation
to minimize on-site or off-site storage
Use technology
- using real time with constant updates to avoid traffic
- use roller conveyors
- Cranes
https://www.inform-software.com/logistics/building-materials-logistics
Copyright by ThyssenKrupp System Engineering 2016
A Comparative Evaluation of the Environmental Impact of Prefabrication versus
Conventional Construction in UAEs Construction Industry By EDIMA YUYU
OKODI-IYAH
20

Security

By Sherry Wang

1.

Property watch officials:

On-duty from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am every day
Monitor building access points
Perform rounds of the building and check for safety, behavioural and
maintenance problems
Facilitate a response to emergency situations
Operate guest sign-ins after 1am
2. Emergency contact in residence
On duty overnight (6pm to 8am) and 24 hrs. on weekends (6pm Friday to
8am Monday)
Work with Security, PWOs and Night Porters in emergency situations
Facilitate a response to noise complaints and breaches of security
3. CCTV
Installed at all of the external points of entry/exit for the residences
Assists Security in finding those responsible where breaches of security
have occurred
Help responses when a door alarm is activated
4.Alarm throughout the buidling
Installed at all of the external points of entry/exit in residences
Used only for emergency exits from the building (fire alarms, etc.)
Signal alarm is sent to Security Control if these doors are forced open from
the outside or if the doors are propped or tampered with
Alarms will activate the camera monitoring system and alert the Security
Control staff of the breach in security
Alarms will be investigated and students found responsible for causing a
security breach will face sanctions under the Code of Student
Report broken locks or doors to Housing immediately for repair
https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UT
F-8#q=how+to+improve+Security+issue+for+a+residence+building

Zoning Compliance
By John Ho

NYC Zoning R7A

Residential
Floor Area Ratio: 4.0
Maximum floor area = FAR x lot area
Base Height: 40-65
Max Height: 80
High lot coverage
Typically 7-8 story apt. Buildings
Architecturally similar to existing buildings.
Parking requirements to half of all tenants. Can be to 30% for lot sizes
<10,000ft2 and waived if 15 or fewer spots required.
21

 Space between wall and lot boundaries must be planted.

http://www1.nyc.gov/site/planning/zoning/districts-tools/r7.page
http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/planning/download/pdf/zoning/districts-tools/r7a.pdf
http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/planning/download/pdf/zoning/zoning-maps/map12c.p
df

Research(Softwares)

Software
What?

tekla

Description
Who?

Yingzhi
Hao

Tekla Structures is a B.I.M software that enables designers using 3D modeling to

design structures. Its designed company, Tekla Corporation, was found in Finland, and it
was acquired by California-based company Trimble Navigation. Compared with Revit,
Tekla has several advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Tekla
Tekla is more proficient in structure design. It allows designers to make detailed
designs for a structure. For example, in Tekla, designers can set different joist
hangers to connect steel beams and analyse the connection. Revit doesnt show
designers these detail about the structure.
Tekla has focused on steel-frame design for decades. Using Tekla to design
steel-frame structure is much easier than using Revit.
Disadvantages of Tekla
Tekla structures 2016 has higher system requirement than Revit 2017.
Teklas official website is less user-friendly than Autodesks website. Each
Tekla software has its own website and each has different interface and product
information to others websites, which sometimes confuse users to do software
research on Teklas website. Tekla also restrained their products information
only to their customers, not all browsers.
Tekla doesnt offer any trial. In order to buy Teklas products, a buyer has to
submit contact information to a Teklas local seller and waits the sellers contact
for detail information, which is very inconvenient for customers.

22

Google
Sketchup

Guy Bar
Yosef

Google sketchup has many advantages, especially for users with little experience
in 3D modeling. Sketchup has a simple and clean interface with intuitive controls and
customizable pamphlets. Sketchup also comes with a useful manual and has a great
online forum full of answers and tutorial videos. Included with its pro version is one
year of free technical support, further assisting with becoming familiar with the
software. All these features help sketchup stand apart from its peers in regards to
simplicity and ease of use. However as is inferred by the word simplicity, Sketchups
shortfalls are its complexity and detailed options.
Before speaking of what is lacking however it needs to be said that Sketchup
comes with impressive warehouses full of thousands of models available for download.
It also has an extension warehouse that lets anyone who wants specific extensions,
giving sketchup a lively community working together to constantly enlarge the features
of the program. As such many of the features needed for BIM modeling, especially
regarding analysis of the building within, need to be downloaded as extensions through
the warehouse. This could be a negative aspect as some extensions are less official
and so are often less intuitive and/or may contain bugs. Another negative of the
extensions is that some cost money too in addition to the cost of the Sketchup Pro
license.
Google sketchup can come in two versions: free and paid. The free version,
called Sketchup Make, has many features in common with the paid version, Sketchup
Pro, including tools for 3D modeling and warehouse integration. However it is lacking
in BIM modeling and more advanced features making it less ideal for any uses other
than recreation. In addition to BIM modeling and other advanced features another
unique aspect of Sketchup Pro is the ability to import and export a large amount of file
formats, making it easy to switch between software for additional analysis. A negative
of Sketchup Pro however is its cost. Unlike the free version, Sketchup Pro costs a
significant amount for an yearly license.
Overall Google Sketchup is a great software that has great potential to grow and
improve due to its vibrant and active community. With its simple and intuitive layout
that new users will be sure to appreciate and the warehouse full of many useful
extensions it will be sure to stay in the race for the very best CAD software. Although its
free version is not useful for professional purposes the Pro version has potential to
become the leading CAD software. The bottom line is if you are a new CAD user and
you are not looking for the software with the most advanced and detailed features
Sketchup is probably the software for you. If you are looking for the advanced features,
however, you should make sure that Sketchup has them either on its stock software or as
an extension in its warehouse before committing.

23

Sizing up Sketchup
Copyright 1996-2016 - WOODWEB Inc
http://www.woodweb.com/knowledge_base/Sizing_Up_SketchUp.html
Google sketchUp Review
Erez Zukerman, PC World
http://www.pcworld.com/article/231532/google_sketchup.html
Google Sketchup Main Website
https://www.Sketchup.com
Digital Fabrication, Our Conclusions
By Cyan Miller
https://digitalfabricationintheaecindustry.wordpress.com/our-conclusions/
Why go Pro?
Copyright 2005 - 2016 Design8 bv.
http://www.design8.nl/en/design-software/sketchup-pro/784-why-go-pro

AutoCAD is a computer aided design and drafting software. It is a common tool to use
in the AEC industry. Files can be imported from other AutoDesk programs like Revit
and likewise exported to other AutoDesk programs.

autocad

revit

John Ho

Advantages
Capable of drawing floor plans and facades with ample detail.
Is very capable for drafting. I find it easier to create floor plans and elevations
with CAD.
Now equipped with point cloud modeling which paired with drones can recreate
real world objects.
Disadvantages
Not intended for BIM use, though is BIM compatible.
More difficult to use for modeling.
Not as intuitive to use. In order to draw walls, MEP equipment, windows, stairs,
doors, etc. you need to draw each line individually. Likewise, also unable to
adjust features if constraints change.

Daniel
Smith

Revit is a CAD modeling and BIM software developed by Autodesk intended

specifically for buildings. It was originally a family of three products: Revit in
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction collection; Revit; and Revit LT. We are
24

focused on Revit.
Advantages:
- Designed specifically for architecture, MEP, structural engineering, and
construction design
- Building with components, rather than with lines; the software can be smart and
prevent the user from doing stupid things like putting a door in the middle of
empty space
- In place modeling allows for components to be linked together, so as things like
floor height are altered, windows will stay on the walls on the correct floors
- Whole building modeling with components allows for analyses such as structural
loads and heating and cooling loads
- Revit supports multiple users collaborating on a project simultaneously
- Allows for custom features and templates to be designed and used on multiple
projects
Disadvantages:
- It is not as simple to use construction lines and trim as in AutoCAD to draw
features
- You cannot see down several floors to copy a previous floorplan
- If you delete a wall all features on the wall disappear even though you may have
wanted to keep and reuse them
- Revit is not intuitively similar to the CAD applications such as AutoCAD nor
Solidworks which engineering students tend to learn first
MicroStation is a CAD software product for two and three dimensional design and
drafting, developed and sold by Bentley Systems.
Advantages

drafting, 3D modeling, animations

final design
Multimodal spaces
Great Compatibility
Load quickly(preventing lagging)
Can be segmented into several individual parts but still maintain continuity

Disadvantages

user interface
Does not focused on structural engineering or BIM[compare to Revit]
2D CAD software that evolved to 3D modeller

___________________________________________________________
Microstation or Revit..what to choose?
microstatio QiTong
n
Han

http://archinect.com/forum/thread/96142/microstation-or-revit-what-to-choose

25

Powerpoint of EID 101 B Final Digital Fabrication Fall 2013 Cooper Union

Rhino(for
mac)

William
Popper

Rhino is a 3D modeling program available on Windows and Mac OS. It is notable for
representing curved surfaces mathematically rather than as polygons and lines. It can be
used to design buildings and products as well as computer models for rendering and
animation.
Advantages:
Uses actual curved surfaces, not just polygons
Intuitive and simple to learn the basics
Easy to scale, rotate, and translate
Many supported file types
Customizable with scripts and plugins
Photorealistic rendering
Disadvantages:
Not specific to building design/architecture
No commands to show plans and sections
No doors, windows, walls
Costs money
SolidWorks (stylized as SOLIDWORKS) is a solid modeling computer-aided design
(CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) computer program that runs on
Microsoft Windows.
Advantage:
-parametric solid modeller
-solid model designing
-friendly user interface[compare to Catia]
-Assembly Feature
-Main stream software
-product development
Disadvantage:
- no built-in structural elements,symbols or layouts
(doors,walls,windows,roof,ceiling,floors)[compare to Revit]
-limited analysis facilities
- low end systems[compare to Catia]
- Errors
-No CAM(computer-aided manufacturing)
-limited 2D drafting tools[compares with AutoCAD]
-expensive licensing costs

QiTong
solidworks Han

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------What are the advantages and disadvantages of these 3 cad systems Inventor 2012,
Solidworks 2012, AutoCAD 2012?
26

https://grabcad.com/questions/what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-these-3-ca
d-systems-inventor-2012-solidworks-2012-autocad-2012
Inventor vs SolidWorks - Which is better.
https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/inventor-forum/inventor-vs-solidworks-which-is-better/t
d-p/2606386/page/3
What is the difference between Catia and SolidWorks?
https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/inventor-forum/inventor-vs-solidworks-which-is-better/t
d-p/2606386/page/3
Powerpoint of EID 101 B Final Digital Fabrication Fall 2013 Cooper Union

3D max

Sherry
Wang

Autodesk 3ds Max, is a professional 3D computer graphics program for making 3D

animations, models, games and images. It has modeling capabilities, a flexible plugin
architecture and can be used on the Microsoft Windows platform. It is frequently used
by video game developers, many TV commercial studios and architectural visualization
studios.
Advantage:
Four views (Top, Left, Front, 3D) to work on at the same time
Focus more on :
- buildings shape
- the construction of a certain room
- construction of the floor,
- even the design of the furniture inside the room, any object you want are able to
draw on the software.(you can make any 3D image,like sofa, light and so on)
Able to transfer the document from Autocad.
After Effect (when the building is made)
More commands as shaping the building in details.
Disadvantage:(compared with revit)
The image usually use for one purpose, cannot break into the floors if you are
showing the shape of the building.
No shortcut for window, roof, doors.
Cannot change the size of the building after you create 3D model.
After you cut some part of the object, there is no reverse step.

Other Software:
ETABS: Analyzing building structures
Features
27

BIM compatible
Can easily create models that can be modified with ease
Can define grids, create analytical models, and realistic models
Define different structural elements of a building and treat them as
separate structures.
Simulate materials such as steel and concrete
Simulate loads and ability of building to carry loads. Included are buckling
and pushovers
https://www.csiamerica.com/products/etabs/features#analysis

28

CONCLUSION

29

REFERENCE
https://www.csiamerica.com/products/etabs/features#analysis

Hendrickson, Chris. Project Management for Construction. Carnegie Mellon University, 2000.
Accessed 24 Sept 2016. (http://pmbook.ce.cmu.edu)
What are the advantages and disadvantages of these 3 cad systems Inventor 2012, Solidworks 2012, AutoCAD
2012?
https://grabcad.com/questions/what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-these-3-cad-systems-inventor-2012-so
lidworks-2012-autocad-2012
Inventor vs SolidWorks - Which is better.
https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/inventor-forum/inventor-vs-solidworks-which-is-better/td-p/2606386/page/3
What is the difference between Catia and SolidWorks?
https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/inventor-forum/inventor-vs-solidworks-which-is-better/td-p/2606386/page/3
Powerpoint of EID 101 B Final Digital Fabrication Fall 2013 Cooper Union
Microstation or Revit..what to choose?
http://archinect.com/forum/thread/96142/microstation-or-revit-what-to-choose
Sizing up Sketchup
Copyright 1996-2016 - WOODWEB Inc
http://www.woodweb.com/knowledge_base/Sizing_Up_SketchUp.html
Google sketchUp Review
Erez Zukerman, PC World
http://www.pcworld.com/article/231532/google_sketchup.html

https://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/buscase_section2.pdf (also has strategies for reducing

initial costs)
Google Sketchup Main Website
https://www.Sketchup.com
Digital Fabrication, Our Conclusions
By Cyan Miller
https://digitalfabricationintheaecindustry.wordpress.com/our-conclusions/
Why go Pro?
Copyright 2005 - 2016 Design8 bv.
http://www.design8.nl/en/design-software/sketchup-pro/784-why-go-pro

http://www1.nyc.gov/site/planning/zoning/districts-tools/r7.page
30

http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/planning/download/pdf/zoning/districts-tools/r7a.pdf
http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/planning/download/pdf/zoning/zoning-maps/map12c.pdf
https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=how+t
o+improve+Security+issue+for+a+residence+building
Enviornmental Review Process:
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/planning/applicants/environmental-review-process.page
Reducing the Environmental Impact of Construction by Using Renewable Materials Mike
Lawrence BRE Centre for Innovative Construction Materials, Department of Architecture and
Civil Engineering, University of Bath, UK
http://isobioproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/JRM-2015-Lawrence.pdf
"Energy-Efficient Windows." Department of Energy. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Sept. 2016.
(http://energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-windows)
Hartley, Anne (1 March 2006). "Fuel Poverty". West Midlands Public Health Observatory.
Birmingham, UK: West Midlands Public Health Observatory. Retrieved25 December 2011.
ASHAWeb. "Noise." Noise. ASHA, n.d. Web. 24 Sept. 2016.
(http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Noise/)
http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/capital/pd/documents/How_to_use_the_Constructability_G
uidelines.pdf
Tatum (1987)
Maximizing Constructability Contractor Panel Discussion Richard Hewitt, P.E. State
Construction Pavement Engineer
An Overview of Constructability: A Management Tool for Architects
Sharmin Khan
Copyright 2015 Scientific & Academic Publishing. All Rights Reserved.
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution International License (CC BY)
Off-Site Modular Construction
Affordable Structures
2015 Affordable Structures | All rights reserved | Sitemap | Designed and developed by
Bayshore Solutions
(https://affordablestructures.com/about-us/about-off-site-construction/)
Maximising Profit When Delivering In BIM
Article by : Mark Vaughan, MCIAT Senior Architectural Technologist
Brewer Smith Brewer Gulf
(http://bsbgulf.com/blog/maximising-profit-when-delivering-in-bim/)
31

http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/2491.pdf?epi-content=GENERIC
http://s-media.nyc.gov/agencies/lpc/lp/0924.pdf
http://www.brama.com/stgeorge/history.html
https://www.wbdg.org/resources/aestheticopportunities.php
An Introduction to Lean Construction
Conrad Mackie
http://www.buildingsguide.com/blog/introduction-lean-construction
Hyatt Regency Walkway Collapse
Adapted from material by the Department of Philosophy and Department of Mechanical
Engineering
Texas A&M University
NSF Grant Number DIR-9012252
(http://www.engineering.com/Library/ArticlesPage/tabid/85/ArticleID/175/Hyatt-Regency-Walk
way-Collapse.aspx)
Fall Protection in Construction
Occupational Safety and Health Administration 3146-05R 2015
U.S. Department of Labor
Leading Edge Safety
Leadingedgesafety.net
opyright 2016 Leading Edge Safety. All Rights Reserved.
Web Design in Kansas City by Lifted Logic

32

APPENDIX
Individual Work
Guy Bar-Yosef
Week 2
NSPE Code of Ethics
The code of ethics of the National Society of Professional Engineers is a set of
requirements that all engineers must follow. Although very detailed and covering many topics,
they all relate to upholding the integrity, honor, and dignity of the engineering profession. The
reason this task is so important is because as part of a society, what each individual engineer
does or does not do affects all other engineers, whether directly or indirectly. Therefore another
way to look at the code of ethics is rules that should be followed in order to complement and
support yourself as well as your fellow engineers. Simply, these rules are here to keep and
improve the reputation of engineers and as such they should be held in the highest regard by
every person calling themselves one.
Naturally, ethics is a very complex subject, one that is much easier to discuss from above
than to actually implement in the field. Due to this unpredictability, the rules attempt to be very
specific and detailed in their criteria. This thoroughness may seem at first glance to be excessive;
not only is it very specific but it also repeats itself multiple times. In my opinion, however, this
code is not excessive at all. I believe that the code needs to be as thorough as possible so as to
leave as little amount of situations unanswered. Being specific lets it be unambiguous and not up
to interpretation. If the code was vague, one could break it and then argue that just they
interpreted it differently.
Regarding the codes repetitive nature, I see it as having a very subtle and yet important
meaning. To explain I will take the example that in the Rules of Practice, section 1-b, there is a
statement that succinctly says that an Engineer will only approve documents that are held to
applicable standards. This statement is repeated nearly word for word in the Professional
Obligations, section 2-b. To me, there are two reasons why this statement and many others are
repeated throughout the Code of Ethics. The first is to show that this statement is important in
two different ways. It is related to the Rules of Practice and is dealing with holding paramount
the safety, health, and welfare of the public. It is also related to the Professional Obligations of
engineers, specifically that Engineers shall at all times strive to serve the public interest. While
the difference between the interest of the public and its safety, health, and welfare is subtle, it
33

leaves less room for doubt and with it less ambiguity. Like I stated before it is important to keep
things as precise as possible because things often seem much less clear when actually dealing
with these problems in the field.
The second reason this rule is more or less repeated is for simple emphasis. Intuitively,
the more something is repeated the more it is lodged in the brain and remembered. This by itself
justifies repeating the important statements.
It is understandable that when an engineer is faced with a situation that may be very
beneficial for the engineer himself and yet against the Code of Ethics, the difference between
right and wrong may all of a sudden seem much harder to differentiate. What needs to be done,
however, by the engineer is to look at the situation from above and not let personal interests get
in the way. It is without a doubt not an easy task, yet one that is crucial. As I stated before it is
for the benefit of all engineers to keep this code sacred, even when it seems that breaking it could
give one a personal advantage. In conclusion, the code of ethics is a set of rules that should be
held in the highest regard by all engineers, in good times and in bad. The code of ethics fittingly
symbolizes the honor that being an engineer is and also the responsibility that comes with it and
in so doing encapsulating us all.

Section 3.4.1 Questions (a) - (e)

(a.) In this project my group and I are solving the problem of: Design and construct a
sustainable building emphasizing BIM technology and offsite construction methods. As this
problem has been solved before it is best described as solving an existing product. We are hoping
to utilize BIM and other sustainable options such as offsite construction to optimize the
construction and building of the green structure. Through this process we will hope to discover
better methods of construction and in so doing improve on the existing product.
(b.) Our customers and their reasons to interact with our product are :

Real estate developers/Owner(s) their job. Sell/rent it to users.

Construction + design companies their job. Get the contract and build it.

Construction workers work for the construction companies, they are the ones
physically constructing the building.

Governments Possible users. Could use buildings for offices/ administration/

courtroom/ etc. Will also inspect building.

Community As a community in the area surrounding our building, they have

constant interaction with the construction and then with its presence in their day to
day lives.

Residents/users They are the practical users of the building.

Manufacturers of materials their job. Sell the materials used to build/maintain the
building.
34

Manufacturers of equipment their job. Sell the equipment used to build/maintain

the building.

Transportation companies Transport materials and equipment to construction site

Maintenance people they are going to be working and maintaining the building.
(c.) The needs of the customers vary with the uses they have with the product.
Minimize construction + design cost + time.
Minimize maintenance.
Maximize profit/ revenue.
Maximize aesthetic value.
Maximize constructability.
User comfort.
Maximize affordability.
Accessibility, especially for handicap users.
Minimize environmental Impact (Users, Materials, Construction methods, and
community).
Ease of installation of equipment (HVAC, plumbing, Electricity, insulation,
communication, automation).
Transportability of components.
(d.) Design and construct a sustainable building emphasizing BIM technology and offsite
construction methods.
(e.) With the completed product my group and I will present it to the contractor and convince
him to approve it. With the contractors approval it will move on closer to the construction
process.

Need Statement
Design and construct a sustainable building emphasizing BIM technology and offsite
construction methods.
The building must be designed and also constructed in compliance of the applicable
standards.
The problem solving stage and engineering design process should be given emphasis
throughout the project in order to fully learn said process from this project.
The design process should put great emphasis on eco-friendly strategies such as BIM.
The construction process should also have great emphasis on green strategies, ideally
utilizing off-site construction in order to make the construction process as quick and
simple as possible.
35

 The structure when finished should be accepted by the community and fit in with its
surroundings.
The total cost of the building should not exceed the budget allocated by the client.

Week 5
Individual Design

3-D View

East View

South View

36

Top View

Section Line and View

37

QiTong Han

Week 2 HW #1
2) Read section 1.6.1 pages 22-27 and write your opinion of the NSPE Code of Ethics? Do
you think it goes too far?
The fundamental canons are very straightforward and useful since its important for engineers
to consider public safety and health because professional engineers have the knowledge and
ability to point out and fix potential problems that perhaps ordinary people wouldnt even have
concerned. Therefore, conduct themselves honorably, responsibly, ethically, and lawfully so as
to enhance the honor, reputation and usefulness of the profession can actually save peoples
lives if the problems are critical.
Most of the rules of practice are repeated as to protect the public and employers or clients. For
example, needed consent is essential to the clients or the employers privacy and its true that
engineers who are working on the project should respect and be faithful to each employer or
client.
The rules are thoughtful in a sense that they protect not only client or employer but also the
engineers. Its possible that client and employer can threaten engineers to work in some
unprofessional or deceptive conduct and the inclusion of Professional Obligations 2b, which
stated that If the client or employer insists on such unprofessional conduct, they shall notify
the proper authorities and withdraw from further service on the project, is very helpful to the
engineers since not only clients and employers needs to have rights, but engineers also need
rights.
And theres another set of rules that are worthy of appreciation is that protecting engineers from
other engineers. Its not rare in working place where some engineers are bullied by other
engineers because of competition. And even worse, there may be cases where engineers
intentionally ruined their competitors reputation by stealing his or her work, claiming as theirs
and suing that person for taking their work. Therefore, its very fortunate to see there are codes
that prevent such thing from happening. The code is Number Seven in the Professional
Obligation category which stated that, Engineers shall not attempt to injure, maliciously, or
falsely, directly, or indirectly, the professional reputation, prospects, practice or employment of
other engineers.
There are some rules that go too far. In Professional Obligations 2a, its understandable that
engineers should eager to serve the public; however, there are engineers who like to show their
eagerness to serve the public in other ways and the code should not have just restricted to
participate in civic affairs. For instance, working on ways to make project more environmentally

38

friendly and improve safety and security for the community is also an example of striving to
serve the public interest since safety is human need rather than want.

5) Answer questions (a)-(e) of Section 3.4.1 on page 102.

a. Are you developing a new product or solving a problem in an existing product?
The method of design and construction of buildings is an existing product; however, our goal
is trying to improve the currently developed method so the final outcome can be different from
the existed one. Therefore, we are trying to find a development design.
b. Who are your customers, and why would they want/need to buy the product?
The customers include but are not limited to owners, construction and design companies,
governments, community, residents, maintenance workers, manufacturers of materials and
equipment, construction workers, and transportation companies.
Among these customers, owners and sometimes the government want to construct a building
since its profitable.
And companies such as construction and design companies, manufacturers of materials and
equipment, and transportation companies will get business and profit from the process of
construction. And employees such as construction workers and maintenance workers of the
building will have working opportunities. The community would want to have more green
buildings.
Finally, the residents or users of this new building will choose this green and unique building
since the amount of money they pay will worth it.
c. What are the main needs of these customers?
Owners and the government need to get the building done with the least cost and most profit.
While the companies and workers need the owners and the government to start construct, they
can earn money. The community needs the building to be done as environmentally friendly as
possible. And the residents or the users will choose base on factors such as safety, the greenness,
the structure and uniqueness of the building, saving time, and the price.
d. In one sentence define the problem.
Sustainable design and construction of buildings.
e. How are you going to go about getting your product to customers (e.g., development
cost, time, manufacturing, production investment, etc.)?
We, as a group, will use 3D modeling software such as Revit from Autodesk and BIM, or
Building Information Modeling, to present our design and construction of buildings. And for the
actual building, we will use cardboard to make a module for the customers.
39

6) Write a need statement and identify potential Customers (see Section 3.7 on page 110).
Need statement
Use BIM and off-site methods for sustainable buildings design and construction

Potential customers
- real estate developers/owners
-governments
-construction and design companies
-construction workers
-community
-residents/users
-maintenance workers
-manufacturers of materials and equipment
-transportation companies

Week 5 HW Part 3
Draw 3D, top, side, and cross-sectional views of individual designs

3D VIEW

40

TOP VIEWS

Level 2-6 Floor Plan

Ground Level Floor Plan

SIDE VIEWS
North

41

East

West

42

South

CROSS SECTIONAL VIEWS

43

44

Wish List and Advantages and Disadvantages of Revit

Advantages:
- Free for Cooper students to use
- Include built-in structural elements, symbols((beams,
doors,walls,windows,roof,ceiling,floors) which focuses on BIM [compare to Solidworks]
- Include animation to explain the use for each element clicked
- Smart software which prevent unrealistic problems[compare to Solidworks]
- Deal more with components rather than just draw with lines[compare to AutoCAD]
- Allow multiple view windows on the same project(simultaneously 3D view, floor plan,
ceiling plan, etc.)
- Analysis for load test
- Allow to have text and has check spelling
Disadvantages:
- Very different from AutoCAD especially for trimming, and dimensioning
- (For me) only black and white for material color
- Does not have official tutorials[compare to solidworks]
Wish List of Attributes:
- Some official tutorials(especially on how to change the material color)
- Easier trimming
- More options for the type of doors and windows(in term of appearance)
- More color for paint of walls

45

Yingzhi Hao
Week 2: NSPE Code of Ethics
Professional engineers have high education and work experience. Their work is related to
advanced technology and it affects other individuals, communities and even the environment.
For example, an apartment building designed by engineers have huge impact on both hundreds
of residents living in the building every day and other neighbors nearby, and the energy and
draining system will affect the environment as well. Due to the large influence professional
engineers can have on the society, they must hold their behavior in a high level of manner. Thus,
it is necessary to set a standard that is more advanced than regular laws to meet higher ethic
requirement.
NSPE code of Ethics sets requirements in all aspects to push engineers generate positive impact
on the society. The code sets up the responsibility an engineer should have to the public. It helps
to keep private information safety and avoid any plagiarism. It demonstrates the effort to protect
the rights and live of engineers themselves, customers they work for and others. It shows that
engineers have more ethic issue to consider in a job rather than just focus on individual benefits
and profit. There is no doubt that NSPE code of Ethics showing the responsibility and justice that
professional engineers should have.
Furthermore, compared with laws made by government law makers who barely know anything
about engineering, NSPE code of Ethics is made by brilliant engineers who have professional
knowledge about what engineer really means. So the code makes up legal loophole that regular
law makers never realized and it can be considered as a reference or a template for the possible
engineering-related laws in the future.
Write a need statement and identify potential Customers
We need to design and construct a sustainable building using BIM technology and offsite
construction method. Rooms of the building should be constructed offsite as modules. Then the
building will be constructed as workers pile up rooms. The building should be built with
sustainable but strong material to low the cost of maintaining and guarantee buildings safety in
the meantime. The building also should be environmental-friendly and every room must be
comfortable to live. The following guidelines should be adhered to:
(1). Materials of walls are able to insulate sound and heat.
(2). The windows of rooms should be as large as possible in order to encourage using sunlight
rather than artificial light sources.
(3). Some pieces of the wall should be easy to take off in order to repair lines inside it easily.
(4). Install solar battery system on the roof.
Potential Customers: (1). Real estate developers and owners (2). Construction and design
companies and workers (3). Government (4). Community (5). Residence in the building (6).
Manufacturers of the materials and equipment (7). Transportation company (8). Maintenance
workers

46

Designed Building:
3D View:

East Side View:

47

South Side View:

Interior Design:

Software Research:
Tekla Structures vs Revit
Tekla Structures is a B.I.M software that enables designers using 3D modeling to design
structures. Its designed company, Tekla Corporation, was found in Finland, and it was acquired
48

by California-based company Trimble Navigation. Compared with Revit, Tekla has several
advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Tekla
Tekla is more proficient in structure design. It allows designers to make detailed designs
for a structure. For example, in Tekla, designers can set different joist hangers to connect
steel beams and analyze the connection. Tekla also allows users to change shape of
beams and set where the screws should be. Revit doesnt show designers these detail
about the structure.

Tekla has focused on steel-frame design for decades. Using Tekla to design steel-frame
structure is much easier than using Revit.
Disadvantages of Tekla
Tekla structures 2016 has higher system requirement than Revit 2017.
CPU: Tekla basically requires Intel Core i5 +2 GHz CPU. Revit can be run with
Intel Pentium CPU.
Memory: Tekla requires 8GB or higher RAM, but Revit can be run with 4 GB
RAM.
Graphic Card: Tekla requires 2 monitor support graphic card such as NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 1060. Revit can be run under basic display adapter capable of
24-bit color.
Teklas official website is less user-friendly than Autodesks website. Each Tekla
software has its own website and each has different interface and product information to
others websites, which sometimes confuse users to do software research on Teklas
website. Tekla also restrained their products information only to their customers, not all
browsers.
Tekla doesnt offer any trial. In order to buy Teklas products, a buyer has to submit
contact information to a Teklas local seller and waits the sellers contact for detail
information, which is very inconvenient for customers.
Wish-list of Tekla:
Tekla should simplify the way how customers can purchase the software. For example,
allowing people directly to buy software online.
Tekla should develop more technique in concrete building design.
Homework 3.4.1
49

a. Are you developing a new product or solving a problem in an existing product?

Remember, you are not providing a solution, you are redefining a problem.
Solving a problem in an existing product.
b. Who are your customers, and why would they want/need to buy the product?
(1). Real estate developers and owners: Our designed building is sustainable, which makes it
easier and convenient to maintain the building.
(2). Construction and design companies and workers: Our offsite modeling construction can
make construction faster and more convenient. So it the companies and workers will save a lot of
time and effort.
(3). Government: This building is following all of the government regulation.
(4). Community: Sustainable building can be more environmental-friendly than the regular
buildings, which have positive impact on the living environment in the community.
(5). Residence in the building: This kind of building will be cheap to construct and more
affordable.
(6). Manufacturers of the materials and equipment: Modeling construction is easier to build.
(7). Transportation company: Transporting large amount of materials will be lucrative to the
company.
(8). Maintenance workers: Since the building is sustainable, it will be easier to maintained.
c. What are the main needs of these customers?
For the developers and builders, the main need is high safety and low cost and time to be build.
For the government, the main need is that the building meets governments requirement.
For the maintenance workers, the main need is that the building is easy to maintain.
For the residents, the main need is low living cost.
For the community, the main need is that the building is friendly to the environment.
d. In one sentence and in your own words (abstraction of the need statement),
define the problem at hand.
Sustainable design and construction of building.
e. How are you going to go about getting your product to customers (e.g., development
cost, time, manufacturing, production investment, etc.)?
Firstly, we can investigate the market about the potential need and materials cost. Secondly, we
build a model on the computer. Thirdly, we will try to find the best material for the construction
and simulate how the building will be under conventional condition and unconventional
condition such as high speed wind. Then we will build a model to see how it really looks like.
And finally, we can do presentations to introduce the product to customers.

50

John Ho
Week 2: NSPE Code of Ethics
The NSPE Code of Ethics is a good outline for ideals and professional conduct.
Engineers work on a variety of projects, which if some projects fail, can lead to people dying.
This is a great idea.
However, I am concerned about the lack of a support system for engineers following this
code. If I work for a firm which I feel is conducting business suspiciously, what are alternative
lines of work? Its noble to support a moral code, but that may not be followed if my job is on
the line. A support system of references is a good place to start.
A lot of work I might see myself doing will require government involvement either
through policies or through government infrastructure projects. If theres a government policy I
dont support, because I feel it is detrimental to the public, what would I do? On the other hand,
if theres a project that I see as beneficial to the public, but stopped by a local community, what
should be done? Maybe I should remove myself from such projects or speak out for or against
the project. There are interesting questions that arise.
Regardless, there are many tenets I agree with and will implement in a professional
setting.
Defining the Problem:
1. What are we developing? Is it a new idea or an existing one?
a. We will be developing an existing idea.
2. Who are the customers?
a. Developers, owner(s)
b. Construction and design companies and workers
c. Governments
d. The local community
e. Building residents and users
f. Material manufacturers
g. Equipment manufacturers
h. Transportation companies
i. Maintenance
3. What are the Customers needs?
a. A comfortable and desirable living places for users.
b. A cost effective building to construct.
c. A compliant structure.
4. Define the problem in one sentence.
a. We will develop an environmentally friendly and efficient building for
commercial and residential use.
5. How are we delivering?
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a. A digital model to present to the public.

b. A timeline for construction.
Needs Statement
Design and build a building in the East Village in a cost effective manner and low maintenance.
Problem Statement
We need to design and construct a sustainable building using BIM technology and offsite
construction methods.
Design Proposals:
Version 1
3D-View
(SE)

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Top View
(2nd Floor)

Elevation

Looking from 2nd Ave

Looking from 7th St

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Section View
N/S

This design attempts to recreate the architecture of the East Village while adding a modern look.
The ground story windows are large in order to showcase the ground level retail. This building
was designed as a dormitory. All -03 rooms are capable of being community rooms.
The main concern and drawback for this design is that it is not zoning compliant. However, it is
possible to maintain this design while shrinking some of the dimensions of the builidng.

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Version 2
3D-View
(SE)

Top View
(2nd Floor)

55

Elevation

Looking from 2nd Ave

Looking from 7th St

Section View
N/S

This design also attempts to maintain the architecture of the community while being zoning
compliant. This design adds a basement to aid maintenance.

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Software Comparison
Revit
Advantages
It is easy to create models and plans that are presentable.
It has video examples of commands.
Flexible exporting options.
Easy to make major adjustments. If I change the dimensions of a wall, the
windows will change with it.
Disadvantages
It is an intensive program to run.
It is only available on PC.
Wishlist
A command prompt. I want to type in a command instead of going through the UI
to the command.
Measurements that work on curved surfaces to get a rough idea of item
placements.

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Daniel Smith
Definition of the Problem, Need Statement, and Potential Customers excerpted from Week
2 Homework:
Define the Problem (3.4.1):
A.
We are improving an existing process utilizing the example of creating a specific new
building.
B.
The customers are real estate developers, who may look to develop real estate quicker
and cheaper than they would be able to using conventional design and construction processes;
the surrounding community, as they will have to deal with the building being constructed and
then existing in their midst; governmental authorities, who have to deal with making sure the
building is up to code requirements; residents of the building, who are looking for a place to live;
manufacturers, as they can profit off the manufacture of materials and equipment used for the
construction of the building; construction workers, who can earn a salary building the building;
transportation companies, who look to make a profit moving the materials and equipment used in
the construction of the building; and maintenance workers, who look to make a living servicing
the building.
C.
The main needs are for real estate developers to turn a profit, and quickly on buildings,
such as through relatively simple and efficient design and construction processes; for the
surrounding community to have minimal impact on their lives from the construction and use of
the building, and the new building not making the neighborhood ascetically displeasing in any
new way; for the governments to have the building be built to code and easily seen to be so; for
the residents to have a comfortable and affordable place to live; for the manufacturers of the
materials and equipment to be able to turn maximum profit off of their production, potentially by
using standard materials already in production; for the construction workers to have a relatively
easy to assemble building that they can finish and get paid for with minimal difficulty; for the
transportation companies to have relatively simple to transport components the companies can
easily profit off of transporting; and for the maintenance workers to have a building that is easy
to maintain which they can get paid well for maintaining.
D.
Design and construct a sustainable building using BIM technology and off site
construction methods which can be assembled relatively quickly and simply, and will be
relatively easy to maintain.
E.
To get the product to customers we can approach real estate developers with our process,
submit responses to requests for information and proposals, and bid on projects. We can contact
the government for required oversight, and issue contracts and requests for proposals and
information to those who will help construct the building. The owner of the building will take
care of marketing it to residents and hiring the maintenance staff.
Need Statement (3.7):
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The building must be designed and tested in a holistic manner using BIM.
Components constructed off site must fit together simply and easily on site.
Construction must cause minimal community impact.
The building must be constructed out of sustainable materials as much as practical.
The construction process should take no more time than if a conventional construction
process were have to been used.
The construction process should cost no more than if a conventional construction process
were to have been used.
The building should be no more complex nor costly to maintain than an average
comparable structure.
The building should be reasonably comfortable to its occupants.
Potential Customers (3.7):
Real Estate Developers
The Surrounding Community
Governmental Authorities
Residents of the Building
Manufacturers of the Materials and Equipment
Construction Workers
Transportation Companies
Maintenance Workers
Objective Tree draft from my notes of 9-27-16

Function Tree draft from my notes of 10-4-16

59

Research Notes
ADA:
Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities (Title III):
https://www.ada.gov/ada_title_III.htm
-Doesnt apply to residential facilities
-Would apply to ground floor commercial
36.102 Application (a) (3) see 36.104

Definitions, see 36.304 Removal of barriers.

ADA Standards for Accessible Design:

https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/2010ADAStandards/2010ADAstandards.htm
-Just for government buildings, but basically a guide to accessibility
International Standards Organization Accessibility and Usability:
http://www.iso.org/iso/catalogue_detail?csnumber=50498
Accessibility helps people without accessibility too h
ttps://www.ada.gov/olderaccess.htm
Aesthetics:

The East Village has historic architecture, should design to compliment the surrounding
building styles
http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/2491.pdf?epi-content=GENERIC
Examples of area architecture include:
- (a) Stuyvesant Polyclinic, one block to the north of the site, is a historic site built
in the neo-Italian Renaissance style
http://s-media.nyc.gov/agencies/lpc/lp/0924.pdf
- (b) St. Georges Ukrainian Catholic Church, one block to the south of the site,
was built in the Ukrainian Byzantine style
http://www.brama.com/stgeorge/history.html
Aesthetics can take into account and be combined with energy/resource efficiency and
sustainability aside from just making it a more attractive place to live
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https://www.wbdg.org/resources/aestheticopportunities.php
Revit:
http://www.autodesk.com/products/revit-family/overview
- Used to be three types of Revit: Revit in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Collection; Revit; and Revit LT. Now just Revit LT and Revit. Revit LT is streamlined BIM
for architects and designers. Revit does architecture, MEP, structural engineering, and
construction design. Revit in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Collection had
been holistic for design through construction and allowed for easier cooperation on a
project.
- Focusing on plain Revit
- Build with components, standard or create your own to use; can store your own for
multiple projects. Not just building with lines. In using components doesnt let you do
stupid things like put a door in the middle of empty space.
- Modeling of whole building, architecture, structural, systems, and construction.
- With in place modeling components can be linked together like windows to walls on
certain floors, so as things like floor height are moved, the windows will stay on the walls
on the correct floors
- Does analysis like structural loads, heating and cooling loads (doesnt model the actual
construction?)
- Supports multiple users working together on one project
Downsides:
- Not so simple to draw/trim with construction lines on floorplans like AutoCAD
- If you delete a wall all features on the wall disappear, could have wanted to keep the
stuff like that for a new wall
- Not good for just quickly conceptualizing components or the overall look, kinda going
most of the way in for that
- Not intuitively similar to the programs like AutoCAD nor Solidworks that engineering
students tend to learn first
Individual Design:
3D View from the Northwest:

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3D View from the Southeast:

Side View from the East:

Side View from the North:

Side View from the West:

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Side View from the South:

Top View (Up is North):

Section View (From the South):

63

Sherry Wang
Opinion about the NSPE Code
Safety, health and welfare is the most important thing in daily life. As an engineer, we
should be aware of what we have built or developed. One small error can cause a huge mass
either killed thousands of people or lost great amount of value. We should never risk the design
either for budget or anything else which might cause a future problem. Its also important that
only perform service in your area of knowledge. Sometimes people may believe that engineers
knowledge are similar to each other. They will ask you to do some work from other field.
However, since we are not professioned in that specific field. We should never accept the work.
Even the knowledge is simple, we should not to just assume that we can do the work because
knowledge takes time to practice. Engineer should be truthful in professional reports.
Sometimes, especially in an experiment, the data might be slightly off from your hypothesis. For
convenience purpose, people would just change the data to fit the thesis. However, simple
change in numbers can create a big error when we use the theory in public. Lying about
information is not a choice for any engineer. Engineer should act for each employer as faithful
agency. We should never work around the company to get other benefit out of an engineer.
Regarding everyone as same person and looking for quality and needs for the product instead of
by friendship or financial aid. Because for the most important goal is to eliminate harm to safety,
health and wealth. We should always give credit for engineering work to whom earned it.
Usually, engineering is a group work which hard to be done by one person. We should name the
people who worked through the process instead of taking all credit on one person.
Answer question a-e:
A Does engineer usually developing new product from a problem in an existing product?
B Who are our potential customer?Why?
C Why does customer buy our product?
D What are some better way to help us concentrate when we doing work?
E What are the advantage of the product?
Write a need statement and identify potential customers
Our goal is to build a sustainable off-site construction especially using BIM
model. Sustainable could means with a lost cost and last for longer time and it would be better if
its green building. With the idea of modular design, people are able to build the building off-site
which is much easier and convince.
Potential customer: construction workers, government, construction and design
companies, residents,manufacturer of material and equipment, transportation company,
maintenance worker.

64

Building designs

3D view

North

East

South
65

West

Cross Section
William Popper

Engineering, the use of the sciences to solve problems or improve things, is a highly
respected field. In order to maintain this status, engineers must adhere to a set of standards,
similar in concept to the Hippocratic oath. The National Society of Professional Engineers has
written a Code of Ethics detailing the key principles of the engineering profession. The code
states, among other things, that engineers should uphold values such as honesty, integrity, and
responsibility.
Article II covers the more practical rules of conduct with obvious consequences. For
instance, engineers must not approve subpar plans or allow conflicts of interest to influence their
professional decisions. Failure to follow these rules could result in an unsafe or at least
unsuccessful product.
Article III mostly covers rules essential to keeping honor and professionalism in the field
of engineering. For example, engineers must respect intellectual property and trade secrets.
While there is some overlap between the two articles, Article III seems to be more concerned
with the respectability of engineering as a profession. Not following these guidelines would
disgrace the profession.
In conclusion, a strict code of conduct for engineers is necessary to ensure reliability in
the field of engineering.
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5.
(a) We are solving a problem in the existing product (sustainability in the construction of
buildings).
(b) Customers include residents and employees of the building, the owner and developer
of the building, contractors and construction crews, manufacturers of materials and equipment,
and the community of the area near the building. As a whole, these groups need a building that is
convenient to live and work in, has low maintenance costs, and uses construction methods that
not disruptive.
(c) Residents need a comfortable building with a convenient layout.
The owner needs inexpensive construction and maintenance costs.
The construction companies need an efficient method of constructing the building.
The local community needs quiet construction and an aesthetically pleasing building.
(d) We are looking for a way to reduce the impact of construction on the environment
and local communities while keeping cost low.
(e) The plans will be submitted to the property owner in the form of a bid. After the
building is built, the owner will handle marketing to residents.
6. Need Statement:
Design and detail the construction process for a sustainable building using building information
modeling and off-site construction methods.
The building must house a reasonable amount of people for its size.
The building must be able to withstand possible disasters.
The manufacturing and construction process should use methods that do not harm the
environment and do not disturb nearby residents.
The building should be designed in such a way that reduces maintenance, particularly
heating/cooling.
The design should take visual appeal into account.
The total cost must stay under the budget set by the owner.
Potential Customers:
Real estate developers
Governments
Construction companies
Residents
Community
Material manufacturing/transportation companies
Software used: Sketchup
Advantages:
- Free
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- Easy to learn and user-friendly

- Multi-purpose
- Gives a good 3D view of the object from any angle
- 3D warehouse allows you to download models made by other people
Disadvantages:
- Poor 2D drawing ability
- Many features can only be used by downloading extensions, which can be unintuitive and
difficult to troubleshoot
Could be either good or bad:
- Relies heavily on the push/pull tool
- All curved surfaces are made of polygons
Wishlist:
- Bezier curve tool
- Better support for walls, stairs, etc.
Individual design

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