Quelly Wk 10-1: B7, Reflection

B7: Reflection

Reflect on course and its effect on your profession and your future

My experience in this class was mixed; and I say that acknowledging that I am taking this class concurrently with other classes that have lead me to my current head-space. I am not passionate about architectural engineering. What I am passionate can be summed up with a couple of observations,

Carlos Hillinger - B2

Chapter 4:  BIM for Owners and Facility Managers

 After reading through the chapter and researching online on Building Information Modelling, my understanding of BIM is that it is a process for managing and creating a construction project through its entire lifecycle. It serves as an aid for builders to update the construction's status in certain key stages of a project, allowing them to optimize their work. It is sort of a mix of CAD drawings, 3D renderings, cost analysis, and building processes , all put together for a better understanding and better work flow through the building stages. Like the National BIM Library expresses it: "Information Builds the Model".

     Chapter 4 explains a series of benefits of using BIM for the owners, and how it can change the way we address a building from the start. In my opinion, one of the most important uses of BIM is the simulation function for facility operations. I say this because besides all cost, energy and quality improvements, safety, in my opinion, is the most important thing when building a structure, and by using simulations, we can predict how our building is going to perform under different circumstances such as earthquakes, big crowds, fires, etc. Other important benefits of using BIM for owners include: shorter project schedule, cost savings, increase in the building's performance, accurate performance and cost information and better program compliance.

I would like to share this video that gives a clear example of how BIM works for a project, in this case, a restaurant.
https://youtu.be/_beeFtrgQJE

Source: 
National BIM Library

Comments

Luciana Tangari:
Hi Lucy, I agree with your comments, I think you have a very good understanding on how BIM can benefit owners in the construction process. In my opinion, the best benefit of using BIM for an owner is the ability to predetermine and avoid design flaws that could bring a lot of problems and change orders during the process or even affect the safety of the people in the building. I agree with your conclusion, using BIM is definitely a way to save money and time, which are two very valuable things in a construction.

Andrew Maita:
Andrew, I agree with you statements, you clearly state that interoperability is a key component to any system. I also think it is key for any process, all the departments must work separately and together at the same time to ensure that the project completion is being done in a timely manner and with the correct use of the resources. It is clear that working together for different teams in a construction process can lead to a lot of time and cost savings at the end of the process.

Allison Abad:
Allison, I agree with your comments on BIM applications for owners and managers, it is certainly a tool to be used to improve many aspects of a construction process. I like that you used an image or diagram to explain how BIM benefits owners. I also would like to mention that providing examples of your past experiences in coop is a great way to make us readers understand how to relate what we are learning to real world scenarios. Good job!

Mark O - B1 Post

AI:

Wilson, Jim and Metz, Cade. “Busting the Myths about A.I. Invading Our Lives.” The New York Times. 2017 Dec. 13.

<https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/13/technology/personaltech/busting-myths-ai.html>

I was attracted to this article based on the title - my mind instantly associates A.I. with robots gradually outsmarting humans and taking over the planet. Hence, it is refreshing to read a NY Times article assuring that the dawn of the A.I. anarchy will not be occurring soon. The article is written as a question and answer with a technology reporter, Cade Metz, who is located in San Francisco and reflecting on the tech/A.I. that he uses and has written about. Metz marvels at the advances in the voice assistants in the past five years, but his ultimate conclusion is that “the improvements have been enormous. But there is still a very long way to go.” He discusses that the goal of voice assistants to understand conversational speech, and the current assistants do a decent job at recognizing speech, but not understanding. With regard to visual A.I., Metz discusses that computer vision techniques can be flawed in recognition which is problematic if A.I. is to be used for security cameras or autonomous cars. As opposed to my initial fears of robot overlords (which is discussed in the article to a degree), the issue that Metz presses to be more urgent is the shift in job markets that will result from automation. We saw an example of this in class with the masonry-laying robot. However, what scares me most about A.I. ebbing into the workforce is the prospect of A.I. overtaking design positions. Structural engineers rely more and more heavily on structural analysis software, and although it is years away from fruition, the thought of software autonomously producing a complete set of design documents seems plausible to me and is very unnerving. I do not believe the construction industry will reach a point where A.I. is trusted enough to stamp and send out a set of drawings, but I do think A.I. will progress to the point of completing and detailing an entire design autonomously.

Computer:

Wod, Marcus.  “The Plan to Build a Skyscraper that Doesn’t Cast a Shadow.”  Wired.com.n  2015 Mar. 13.

<https://www.wired.com/2015/03/plan-build-skyscraper-doesnt-cast-shadow/>

Without saying, computers have become a stable in nearly all applications, especially in the field of engineering. Under the computer tag, an article was listed that discusses the design of a building that will reflect light in such a way to minimize/eliminate its shadow. What I found most impressive in the article is that the architects simply entered their desired restraints into a software, such as building area and maximized light to the ground. In turn, the software iteratetd through all the possible outcomes and spat out the viable shapes that satisfy the restraints. Design at the press of a button! I think this example shows the immense power that computers hold in crafting solutions to particular problems, especially with buildings.

Software:

Tanz, Jason.  “Andy Rubin Unleashed Android on the World. Now Watch Him Do the Same with AI.”  Wired.com. 2016 Feb. 09.

<https://www.wired.com/2016/02/android-inventor-andy-rubin-playground-artificial-intelligence/#slide-7>

Andy Rubin is an incredible developer who created Android and headed Google’s mobile internet efforts, until he left Google to start his own company. Tanz’s article largely recounts Rubin’s constant innovation and unwavering determination to bring his visions of the future into the realities of today. One of the more eye-catching aspects of the article to me was the included timeline that cites Rubin to be pioneering preliminary versions of social networking (1981), mobile phones (1992), self-driving cars (2004) all before the research and development of these technologies were mainstream. As the article calls him, he is an impatient futurist. Pairing with the discussion of AI above, Rubin foresees A.I. being the focus of the next technological era. However, Rubin is aiming to build his neural network database differently than the other tech players. His vision is to send a fleet of robots (sensing machines) out in the world to feed his A.I. database firsthand with immersive data. To do this, Rubin’s company, named Playground Global, invites developers to use Playground’s advanced engineering sensors and hardware to fulfill their ideas. With this setup, Rubin can fuel the creativity of other developers while sending his sensors out into the world to build his database of data. I am anxious to see the A.I. that is developed from Rubin’s platforms; his thoughts and goals sound good in theory, but I have yet to be convinced that they will work in reality. Regardless, it was quite interesting to read about a developer with such an excitement and vision for where tech can be in the future.

Future:

Metz, Cade.  “Building A.I. That Can Build A.I.”  The New York Times.  2017 Nov. 05

<https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/05/technology/machine-learning-artificial-intelligence-ai.html>

In the same A.I. spirit as the other articles, Metz writes about a prospective tool that is in development for the future of A.I. The article states that only 10,000 people in the world have the expertise required to develop A.I. - which is leaving the large tech companies to scramble for qualified developers. Hence, AutoML is a pursuit of some tech giants such as Google. ML is explained in the article to stand for machine learning, which means that AutoML would describe machines that are capable of coding A.I. This does not currently exist. The most prevalent concern discussed with A.I. was the automation of jobs, which would cause a shift the workforce. If AutoML becomes advanced enough, coders would be coding themselves out of a job. I appreciate that Google’s solution to the lack of qualified computer experts is: “we can code computer experts!” - however, coding computers with artificial intelligence to generate more computers with A.I. will propagate into a fleet of self-improving A.I. I find this to cross the line of what should be done with A.I.

Comments:

To Andrew Maita:

Most of the articles I read for this round of posting pertained to A.I., one of which focused on building a sensory database for robots to encounter and understand the world around them. I don’t know too much about the 3D printers used for buildings, but I believe they are typically stationed in one location and set up to print around themselves. I could easily see 3D printers advancing into a mobile system with sensors that allow the system to move around the footprint of the building and print as needed. I also think it will only be a matter of time until we can 3D print all of the materials needed for a complete building - I would not be surprised if eventually we can 3D print the rebar as the machine builds up the concrete.

To Zac Arnold:

Having programs with the ability to identify code violations is super useful in my eyes. I always envision designing my own house one day, but know that I would mess up something with the architectural codes and restraints. To the same effect, I agree with you that avoiding something that is obviously catastrophic in a design seems like an intuitive “decision-making” ability for the software.

As you say in your sociology section, some people welcome the automation and others have reservations. I typically have reservations. I think automation can easily be taken too far. One of the articles about A.I. that I read discussed how Google is aiming to develop A.I. that can program more A.I. I think this level of automation, where coders are coding themselves out of a job, takes automation too far; yet, it is the same effect as automating cars on the street and putting taxi drivers out of a job.

To Jordan Shuster

I agree with you that robotics and automation has the potential displace large quantities of people from their current jobs. As I have posted before, A.I. coders are trying to code computers that are capable of developing more A.I. software (AutoML). In the same effect as eliminating jobs from the unskilled and lower-class workers, programmers are trying to program themselves out of a job. From an objective standpoint, a well-coded software and machine would be the more efficient and economical option for many jobs. If we keep leaning into reliance on machines, I do not know what will happen to the workers who are displaced from their job. Who knows... as A.I. for business applications becomes more prevalent (as you discuss with your Google Cloud ML), perhaps everybody will have the business chops at their disposal to thrive as successful entrepreneurs.

Milligan - Blog Post 1

AI

https://www.americanbanker.com/news/one-virtual-assistant-to-rule-them-all-bankers-already-getting-prepped

My high school chemistry teacher instilled in all of his students the idea that everything is connected – and this article continues this idea on a technology-based level. Integrating technologies together will make them more efficient and ideally more useful to users. The advancements made in AI are already impressive as they stand, but the idea that the same artificial intelligence could span across multiple physical technologies takes the concept to a new level. The article discusses other methods of utilizing this technology that are far beyond just being able to talk to “Alexa” on multiple devices; it discusses reaching a level of a complete smart house. Seemingly ahead of its time, Disney released a movie in 1999, Smart House, in which the AI of a connected house continues to develop its own personality and takes over the family. This demonstrates that although utilizing AI will make our lives more efficient and streamlined, there are inherent dangers in creating something “smarter” than ourselves.

Computer

https://www.wired.com/2015/03/plan-build-skyscraper-doesnt-cast-shadow/

I found an interesting article under the Computer tag about the plan to build a skyscraper that doesn’t cast a shadow. Computers are integral to the field of architectural engineering in this era. Almost all firms utilize computer technologies for their design and construction processes, and those that don’t are often left in the shadows (no pun intended). This article is a great example of how computers can be used not just as a tool to streamline design, but to improve it in ways not previously possible. A firm in London used computer design software to design a pair of buildings that would reflect light off of each other in a way that minimizes darkness at their bases. This improves on traditional skyscraper design that results in large shadows and darkness near the lower floors and ground level.

Software

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uTUaK9k7_8

This video, which was found by searching under the Software tag, is very interesting as it discusses how to use software in the construction industry. Many people would attest to the fact that the software used on a construction project can make or break it. An efficient, powerful software can greatly improve the work flow of a construction project. However, on the other hand, a tedious and clunky software can create tensions, frustrations, and delays over the construction process. This video specifically talked about apps that can be used in different parts of construction. There are apps, which ideally can work together, to efficiently manage safety, daily reports, photos, and more.

Future

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AV6zXmIR3Cg

This video discusses some technologies that could change the construction in the future. The six technologies discussed are: wearable tech, robotics, internet of things, virtual reality, UAVs, and 3D printing. Wearable tech could be used to monitor the location of personnel on site, or gathering other data from the wearer, such as temperature or heart rate. Taking this idea to a new level with the inclusion of virtual reality, it could even be used for augmented reality to understand from a design perspective what is happening on the construction site. Robotics aim to increase efficiency and safety of construction sites. The internet of things involves a high level of connectivity and data collection that can provide feedback to construction managers about the work flows and efficiency of their teams, and much more. All of the ways IoT can benefit construction are still being worked out. UAVs are often used for inspections and progress reporting, but their contribution to construction continues to grow. 3D printing has the potential to change construction completely. It allows for the design of new structures and shapes, and the construction ability of things that were never able to be build before.

Comments
Brad: The first article you posted about seems really interesting. It is really interesting to approach engineering problems from a non-engineering point of view. This reminds me of some of the articles I read regarding the connectivity of things. In this case, it is important for different schools of thought to be connected as well.

Chris: Your post does a great job of incorporating all of the topics you researched into one idea. Bringing sociology into the conversation of technological advancements really enhances your discussion of these ideas. You make a great point about security regarding the use of some of these technologies. While in banking these securities are absolutely valid and must be considered, we are at an advantage that security may not be as critical to utilizing these technologies in construction and design fields.

Jordan: The information you posted about regarding 3D printing and the future was extremely interesting. You make a great point about thinking outside of the norm that 3D printing is all about what it can make. As you point out, it is really important to consider what it can do. It is important, I think, to consider this point of view with all of the technologies we have been discussion. It is not just a matter of "what it does," but it is a matter of "what it can do."

Mark Odorizzi's Intro Post

Experience with Intelligent Buildings
I am a Junior pursuing a BSAE/MSCE with a structures concentration.

My experience with the topics in this course are mainly focused around Revit. I have worked in Revit during both of my co-ops and have seen it utilized to varying degrees of its capacity. I have mainly worked on Revit's structural side and used Revit to collaborate on a single file with my coworkers, as well as coordinate with other trades.

I do not have much experience with databases beyond Excel work. 


Expectations of the Course
In this course, I anticipate reading and exploring various technologies associated with building construction and functionality. After the introduction, I expect that we will read and discuss software and specific technologies that are being adopted for construction purposes, as well as software systems being integrated into building controls to increase energy efficiency.


Blurps from Evernotes
The articles that I read in Evernotes relate to new technology that I have recently acquired: a fitbit and a VR headset.

The first article correlated the personal use of a fitbit to the level of personalization that should be integrated to building monitoring systems. The bottom line was that increased efficiency can be achieved if occupants are made aware of building energy uses in the same way that people are increasingly wanting to be aware of their step count.

The last articles I read pertained to VR that is being developed to operate machinery. This is very interesting to me. The article showed a man using VR in Spain and operating a piece of heavy machinery that was in Switzerland. Having just recently used VR for the first time, I think this is super neat and seems like something that can be developed to be very useful. Whether it is necessary or not, I am not convinced.

Definition of Intelligent Buildings
I would define an intelligent building as one that includes technology for the use of construction, self-monitoring, or operation of the building.


Article Citations (not all articles from Evernote had authors listed):
"Five lessons the Building Industry Can learn From the Wearable Tracker Craze." (2015 July 09).
Kurzweil: Accelerating Intelligence.  "Teleoperating robots with virtual reality: getting inside a robot's head." (2017 Oct. 06). 
Cheng, Roger.  "Dig thise: I operated a giant excavator from 2,500km away." (2015 Mar. 5)

Kerry Milligan's Introduction

Hi everyone! My name is Kerry Milligan, and I am a senior BS/MS student in Architectural Engineering. My BS concentration is in Digital Building, which is why I am taking this class. Additionally, my MS concentration is in Building Energy, which I think makes this class a great fit for my studies here at Drexel. After taking the database class required for DB students, I feel pretty comfortable with databases and database systems, but unfortunately do not have too much experience with building modeling software, such as Revit.

From this class, I do hope to grow some of my experience with Revit, but most importantly learn about the wide varieties of technologies that can be used in our field, and how they are relevant to what we will be doing in our careers. In particular, I hope to understand how technologies can help design and build smarter, more energy efficient buildings.

The Evernote article that I found most interesting was Intel Labs Using Multiple Sensors at the City Scale, which I found by using the "urban" tag. This article talks about how Intel is using sensors and technologies to expand beyond the boundaries of a building and bringing it to the scale of a city.

My initial definition for an Intelligent Building is one that is active, as opposed to passive, and does more than just "exist."

About This Blog

AE-410/510 is a course for Seniors and Graduate Students in Architectural Engineering at Drexel University in Philadelphia, USA.  We consider the uses of Information Technology on the Design, Construction and Operation of buildings, hence the course title: Intelligent Buildings.

This blog is created by students in the course responding to assignments and class exercises.  Use the "Labels" on the right to see the work of individual students OR the topics on which they've written.

The syllabus for the course is available from the "Pages" link.