Engineering and Construction: 3D Model Review and Tagging System

Arbie Jose A. Rosos

Arbie Jose A. Rosos Graduate School, Adamson University, Philippines

Abstract

Purpose – To develop an application to enhance the model review process in engineering and construction projects by leveraging the functionalities of 3D design software.

Method – Rapid Application Methodology, or RAD, was mainly used in the study. Visual Studio is the main IDE used in the development of the web application and of the plugin for the 3D design software, which is Autodesk Navisworks. The backend language used was C#, followed by MSSQL for the database server and IIS for the web server. As for the evaluation of the functionalities of the system, forty engineers participated.

Results – In order to make decisions during the model assessment and produce real-time reports, the respondents were able to get more data from the 3D model. The web application allows for the sending of notifications or announcements, model evaluation reports, and profile administration for users. Additionally, the applications make use of an SMS module, which enables field-based engineers to get notifications even in the absence of an internet connection.

Conclusion – By integrating 3D design software and a web application, it was discovered that the designed applications could improve the 3D model review. As perceived by the respondents, the system is functionally acceptable, indicating that the study's design framework can be feasibly implemented.

Recommendations – The study focuses on two types of applications: web-based and desktop. Thus, it is recommended that a mobile application be developed as an additional platform for the engineers for easy accessibility.

Practical Implications – Though modern 3D model review tools like Autodesk Navisworks offer comprehensive review solution in engineering and construction, they are expensive for most small engineering businesses. The use of technological solution for 3D model review will benefit the various engineering organizations since it will give them the advantage of presenting the current stage of the designs to their clients in almost real-time.

Author Biography

Arbie Jose A. Rosos, Graduate School, Adamson University, Philippines

Arbie Jose is a student at Adamson University, taking a Master's in Information Technology. A solutions-driven professional with over 18 years of combined professional experience in technology innovation, software engineering, information technology, engineering, construction, automation, and information management, with extensive experience in the software development life cycle. Has a deep passion for innovation and work process improvement. He has a solid background in managing and developing enterprise-wide and global applications, focusing on the mapping of application capabilities to business needs. Arbie Jose graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree, a five-year course at Adamson University.