Developing a common library of prefabricated structure components through graphic media mapping to improve design efficiency

In recent years, prefabricated structures have attracted a lot of attention because of their advantages of multifunctional design, fast construction speed, and high degree of standardization. However, they also entail increased design information complexity. To achieve a simplified and efficient design process, this study proposes to develop a common library of prefabricated structural components using graphic media mapping. The study integrates digital graphic information of building information modeling (BIM) with engineering and production data. Based on the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) data standard, semantic data related to the geometry, processes, resources, production costs, construction sites, and other design information relevant for prefabricated components are assigned to a component's graphic representation. Thus, the visible geometric representation and the background engineering information are integrated into a unified database. A collection of common structural components forms a library that can be reused in prefabricated design projects. The development of a component library and its application to a more efficient design process is demonstrated through a case study of an urban viaduct project.