Implementation of an Open and Interoperable Process to Optimise Design and Construction Phases of a Residential Building Project: a Case Study using BIM in a Public Procurement

Building Information Modelling (BIM) represents a long-term investment that could allow reduction of time and cost control by optimising design and construction processes. It also ensures greater effectiveness of control systems. The paper is focused on a public procurement case study regarding the BIM-based validation and construction optimisation of an actual residential building designed in a compact urban context of Milan, in a confined construction site affected from lack of space and coordination problems. The scope is the implementation of an interoperable IFC-based process to perform advanced model and code checking and to effectively manage the construction phase through 4D modelling. Architectural, structural and MEP models were enriched with alphanumeric attributes as required for semiautomatic validation processes. Auto matching between BIM objects and construction activities was also achieved. The experimentation project showed the possibility of a rapid validation of the model and an advanced coordination between design disciplines. The construction site simulation allowed the comparison of different layout options and baseline schedules. The research also tested the joint use of model checking and 4D modelling tools to manage the percentage of completion of the construction progress and to support H&S management through the IFC export of a specific configuration of the plan of work directly from the 4D BIM software. The proposed process created an open, interoperable and multidisciplinary approach involving designers, project managers and construction companies.