Al-Saeed, Y; Parn, E; Edwards, D J and Scaysbrook, S (2019) A conceptual framework for utilising BIM digital objects (BDO) in manufacturing design and production: A case study. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 17(5), pp. 960-984. ISSN 1726-0531
Abstract
Purpose: Construction manufacturers predominantly rely upon antiquated manual design and production processes and procedures because they lack technical skills needed to automate working practices. This paper aims to automate manufacturing processes by optimising the utilisation of BIM digital objects (BDO) via the development of a conceptual model. Concomitant objectives seek to reduce design errors; eliminate unnecessary costs; automate the generation of quantity bills; and maximise productivity performance. Design/methodology/approach: An inductive approach was adopted through a post positivist epistemological lens set within the context of a case study of a small- and medium-sized enterprise. From an operational perspective, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed via a novel four-phase waterfall design, namely, literature diagnosis; recording contemporary practice; mapping manufacturing workflow and procedures; and evaluation and proof of concept development. Findings: The work illustrates that BDO enhances manufacturing workflow, reduces product manufacturing lead time and augments quality assurance throughout the whole life cycle of a manufactured product. The conceptual model developed provides a pragmatic and comprehensive solution to automate construction manufacturing procedures and to improve the facilitation of information exchanged between all stakeholders involved. Originality/value: This study presents the first comprehensive case study of BDO application within a manufacturing context. Future research is however, needed to test and validate the conceptual model presented in practice. In doing so, the model can be further refined using practitioner input and real-life manufacturing processes and procedures.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | building information modelling; conceptual framework; construction supply chain; information management |
| Index terms: | workflow, conceptual framework, practitioner, mapping, methodology, inductive approach, quality assurance, production process, technical skill, manufacturer, lead time, construction supply chain, manufacturing process, productivity, working practice, case study, whole life cycle, design error, building information modelling |
| Subjects: | theoretical framing, manufacturing engineering, sustainability assessment, management, research methods, spatial and geospatial analysis, professional development, project controls, information systems, quality assurance, data collection methods, construction logistics, practitioner, professional practice |
| Topics: | Time Control, Organizational Design, Supply Chain Management, Quality Management, Digital Applications, Design Practice, Sustainability, Roles and Professions, Engineering Principles, Information Management, Research Practice, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here