LicA: A BIM based automated code-checking application for water distribution systems

• Published in: Automation in construction 2013-01, Vol.29, p.12-23
• Main Authors: Martins, João Poças, Monteiro, André
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Automated; Automated code-checking; Automation; BIM; Building codes; Building management systems; Buildings. Public works; Computation methods. Tables. Charts; Computer programs; Design engineering; Distribution. Storage; Exact sciences and technology; IFC; Project management. Process of design; Regulations; Structural analysis. Stresses; Tasks; Water distribution networks; Water supply. Pipings. Water treatment
• ISSN: 0926-5805; 1872-7891
• DOI: 10.1016/j.autcon.2012.08.008

Recent advances in Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies have resulted in a rising demand for real applications of this kind of tools, in addition to the usual standard functions. Building design code-checking is a task that has been found to be suitable for automation, allowing for swifter, more rigorous and transparent procedures. This paper presents research conducted at the University of Porto that has resulted in an original method and a software application for the automated code-checking of building water network designs. Although the methods are based on the main Portuguese regulations, they may be adapted to other countries. The paper presents a review of the core principles behind BIM-based automated code-checking, and discusses the role of the IFC model as a viable format for the exchange of data in a code-checking system, as well as current international automated code-checking initiatives. The authors conclude that automated code-checking procedures can be feasibly implemented in the short term in some domains, and that they may provide a significant incentive towards widespread BIM adoption. ► We create an application for the automated code-checking of water distribution networks. ► Automated code-checking is a driver for BIM adoption. ► Building codes must be adapted to computable parameters. ► IFC covers most of the BIM representation needs.