Spatial Integration in Construction
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 128, Issue 5
Abstract
Work in construction always requires moving within, and interacting with, a complex environment while handling heavy materials and building elements to be joined, inserted, or aligned. Modern design software is able to digitally model all of those elements in their spatially correct configuration, and without interference. When it comes to the actual construction, however, the spatial models do not find any use. Twenty years after the manufacturing industry began using electronic design data to control their machinery, construction is also getting ready to move away from its longstanding tradition of working with paper-based blueprints. The newest steps on the path toward the use of three-dimensional digital design data in support of site operation are stimulated by the global positioning system and the many uses of lasers. Surveying has always performed critical functions on construction sites, such as marking building layouts, anchor bolts, concrete formwork, or bridge bearings. The objective of spatial integration in construction is to digitally merge spatial design data with the digital model of equipment working on implementing the design. This paper will briefly review historical advancements in “perfecting” the surveying technology before presenting three examples of a quantum leap in the way we design, plan, and control construction projects in the future.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 128 • Issue 5 • October 2002
Pages: 400 - 408
Copyright
Copyright © 2002 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 24, 2000
Accepted: Nov 7, 2001
Published online: Sep 13, 2002
Published in print: Oct 2002
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