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

加拿大建筑业越来越多地采用非现场施工，减少了建筑垃圾，提高了生产率。然而，建筑行业目前的工具和管理系统并不适合直接服务于这种新采用的方法。在这方面，Fortis LGS Structures Inc.正在与阿尔伯塔大学合作，为他们的非现场施工作业开发特定的工具。Fortis是一家总部位于埃德蒙顿的住宅建筑商，专注于板式建筑方法，即在工厂预制墙壁等组件并交付到现场进行安装。本CRD计划建议进行四项工作：(i)发展一套建筑资讯模型（BIM）系统，以自动执行工程量计算，并根据该系统规划建筑进度及每日更新进度；（ii）应用目标成本分析来比较基于BIM模型的设计；（iii）应用精益原则，为板式建筑制订综合管理架构；（四）寻找一种混合结构设计方法，可作为富通高层住宅项目的标杆。该研究项目将在以下方面使加拿大受益：(i)拟议的研究将建立一个框架，以提高模块化/板式建筑的生产力，这可以通过应用精益制造原则和实施BIM工具来实现设计和起草过程的自动化；（二）形成适合模块化/板式建筑行业的管理体系，优化材料使用，减少碳排放。

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.