Improvement of offsite light gauge steel (LGS) construction operations using BIM and target cost analysis

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Offsite construction is increasingly adopted in Canada's construction industry, bringing the benefits of reduced construction waste and improved productivity. However, the current tools and management systems within the construction industry are not suited to directly serve this newly adopted approach. In this regard, Fortis LGS Structures Inc. is collaborating with the University of Alberta to develop specific tools for their offsite construction operations. Fortis is an Edmonton-based residential builder focusing on a panelized construction approach whereby components such as walls are prefabricated in a factory and delivered to the site for installation. Four tasks are proposed for this CRD program: (i) to develop a Building Information Modelling (BIM) system that can automatically perform the quantity take-off, based upon which construction schedules can be planned and daily updates can be achieved; (ii) to apply target cost analysis to compare designs based on BIM models; (iii) to develop an integrated management framework for panelized construction applying lean principles; and (iv) to find a hybrid structure design method that can be used as a benchmark for Fortis's high-rise residential projects. This research project will benefit Canada in the following aspects: (i) the proposed research will establish a framework for improving productivity for modularized/panelized construction, which can be achieved by applying lean manufacturing principles and implementing BIM tools to automate the design and drafting process; and (ii) the proposed research will form a management system that is suitable to the modularized/panelized construction industry, which optimizes material usage and mitigates carbon emissions.