Automated Wall Panel Conflict Detection in BIM Models

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Solution Overview

Problem

The traditional method of manually reviewing constructability checks for wall panels in building construction is time-consuming and prone to errors, making it challenging to identify and correct conflicts in member dimensions, orientations, and cutouts before construction begins.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that analyzes wall panel members by comparing their actual properties against predetermined requirements, generating a list of conflicting members, and allowing for automated correction within a predetermined tolerance, thereby streamlining the conflict resolution process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual review of constructability checks is performed for each wall panel, then detailed inspection of member properties is achieved, but time consumption and error probability increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection accuracyVSAvoidreview time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical review process with an automated computer-based system that uses software to extract, analyze, and compare wall panel member properties against design requirements, eliminating the need for manual inspection while maintaining or improving accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by automatically performing constructability checks without requiring manual intervention - the software independently extracts properties from the building information model, compares them against requirements, and generates conflict reports autonomously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If detailed manual checking of each wall panel member is performed, then conflicts in dimensions, orientations, and cutouts are identified, but the complexity and cost of the construction process increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconflict detection capabilityVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal automated system that handles multiple types of constructability checks (dimensional conflicts, orientation issues, cutout positions) through a single integrated software platform, reducing overall process complexity while maintaining comprehensive conflict detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary automated analysis layer between the building information model and the construction execution, using software algorithms to mediate the comparison between design requirements and actual panel properties, simplifying the detection process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If automated computer-based analysis is implemented for wall panel members, then time and cost are reduced, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconflict identification speedVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses digital copying of wall panel member properties from the building information model into the automated analysis system, allowing rapid duplication and comparison of data without manual re-entry, thereby increasing productivity while keeping the system relatively simple

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system segments the complex analysis task into distinct automated steps: extracting properties from the BIM model, comparing against requirements, identifying conflicts, and generating reports. This modular approach increases processing speed while managing system complexity through clear separation of functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11403436B2Method and system for identifying conflicts within wall framing members of a structure
Publication Date: 2022.08.02 CONSULTING ENGINEERS CORP
  • US11403436B2 patent drawing
  • US11403436B2 patent drawing
  • US11403436B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is a method comprising; accessing a model, wherein the model is comprised of a plurality of members; isolating a set of wall panels, wherein the wall panels are comprised of members; analyzing each of the members of the wall panel and determining a set of actual properties of each of the members; comparing the actual properties of the members are within a predetermined tolerance of a set of required properties for each of the specific members, wherein if the member is not within the set of required properties the member is conflicting; and generating a list of all conflicting members.