4D BIM models for smart utility relocation management in urban infrastructure projects

Abstract

Purpose The relocation of existing underground utilities in urban environments is complex because of the existence of multiple utility agencies being responsible for numerous utilities and over constrained space and time to execute maintenance works. Unfamiliar location and insufficient records of maintenance data hamper the flow of work, causing unnecessary delays and conflicts. The aim of the paper is to explore 4 dimensional Building Information Modeling as a smart solution for the management of multiple utility data for a relocation project in an urban setting. Design/methodology/approach An empirical case-based research methodology is used to collect data and develop the BIM models. Two ongoing construction projects in an urban city are empirically studied, and 4D BIM models of identified utilities are developed to assist management and relocation of existing utilities. Findings The developed BIM models enabled the location of existing sub-surface utilities through 3D visualization and also enabled clash detection. The 4D simulation of BIM model enabled the tracking of actual progress of relocation works and thereby helped in taking necessary actions to minimize forthcoming delays. The evaluation of the developed model showed that the application of 4D BIM improved communication and coordination during utility relocation works. Practical implications 4D BIM for utility infrastructure provides better management of utility information. They provide utility stakeholders an efficient way to coordinate, manage utility relocation processes through improved visualization and communication with a reduction in delays and conflicts. Originality/value Limited efforts were made using 3D BIM for sub-surface utility infrastructure in visualization and management of utility information. Efforts using 4D BIM in coordination and management of utility projects are left unexplored. This study adds value to the current literature through the application of 4D BIM for utility relocation projects.

4D BIM for Construction Logistics Management

“…Where this was applied, it was reported that, utilising the 4D BIM model as a point of reference, clashes and conflicts that were not immediately perceptible to the main contractor or through 2D drawings alone were quickly highlighted. This is similar to findings reported in Vilventhan et al [63] that 4D BIM is very effective in the identification and resolution of clashes in projects. Furthermore, these sessions allowed trade contractors an opportunity to aid in the process of identifying and agreeing solutions to these issues alongside the same fellow trade contractors that they were interfacing with on site.…”

Realizing the Need for Digital Transformation of Stakeholder Management: A Systematic Review in the Construction Industry

“…One remote construction project architectural firm used BIM to collaborate with the main contractor and other personnel on site, which resulted in increased and very effective collaboration in comparison to prior remote projects [56]. Furthermore, one utility relocation project BIM 3D visualization enabled clash detection and coordination of designers and various utility stakeholders [57], and an in metro-rail project 3D visualization was successfully used to persuade external stakeholders to support the project's goals [25]. A BIM 4D simulation enabled the tracking of actual progress of relocation works and thus improved coordination in the construction phase [57].…”

“…Furthermore, one utility relocation project BIM 3D visualization enabled clash detection and coordination of designers and various utility stakeholders [57], and an in metro-rail project 3D visualization was successfully used to persuade external stakeholders to support the project's goals [25]. A BIM 4D simulation enabled the tracking of actual progress of relocation works and thus improved coordination in the construction phase [57]. In many cases of BIM usage, the benefit of better coordination is reported, and Maskil Leitan and Reychav [58] conclude that BIM leads to the formation of a new and possibly much more cooperative organizational infrastructure in which conducting proper stakeholder management can greatly contribute to project success.…”

“…Liu et al [59] echo the BIM-coordinating architect they interviewed that it is not right to bear the responsibility for the BIM model if other project participants drew it, and they conclude that there are too many unaddressed obligation issues in current BIM practices. To achieve benefits from the BIM collaboration of project stakeholders, besides alignment with the work activities, a willingness to adopt BIM is also considered as a crucial factor [57]. The novel IPD delivery system has proven advantageous in assuring smooth BIM collaboration; nevertheless, a separation between technological coordination and IPD team management should be made, and there is a need to properly manage stakeholders in this project setting [58].…”

Evaluation of Complexity Issues in Building Information Modeling Diffusion Research

“…Some of the network-related BIM complexity research articles investigated the complex evolution or dynamics issues of BIM in different contexts. Specifically, as mentioned earlier, BIM implementation has evolved and spread to architectural heritage maintenance projects [39] and utility relocation projects [40], which involve quite different and complex networks of stakeholders. Moreover, the range and contingencies of causal structures shaping the evolution of BIM-based operations were studied.…”