Building Information Modeling (BIM) is widely adopted by the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry nowadays. This digital modeling technology allows user to model a construction project in a digital environment which also supports various type of different analysis and simulation.

Autodesk Revit is one of the commercial software packages that provides comprehensive function on building information modeling for both architect, structural engineer and building services engineer. In addition to its built-in function, the Application Programming Interface (API) enables a high flexibility for its users to develop customized application tools to meet individual needs. Researchers have devoted their effort on developing tools to integrated their works with BIM through...[ Read more ]

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is widely adopted by the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry nowadays. This digital modeling technology allows user to model a construction project in a digital environment which also supports various type of different analysis and simulation.

Autodesk Revit is one of the commercial software packages that provides comprehensive function on building information modeling for both architect, structural engineer and building services engineer. In addition to its built-in function, the Application Programming Interface (API) enables a high flexibility for its users to develop customized application tools to meet individual needs. Researchers have devoted their effort on developing tools to integrated their works with BIM through the API function. The way that could facilitate integration of MEP engineering design with BIM effectively is still under development.

To address this issue, a framework that supports integration of MEP design with BIM is formed. The framework explains the relationship between different BIM models and how the information flow in and out of the model to external application customized tools. It also focuses how to use the framework to produce project deliverables, usually calculation file and drawings, in an effective and systematic way. Then the framework is tested and verified by developing prototype of workflows for scenarios.

An open-source visual programming software launched by a group of engineers and architects is used to verify the design of workflow for two example scenarios. One is for integration of BIM and MEP on design calculation while another one for using system topology to develop schematic representation of MEP system.