Use of Databases in Design Office - Maalik Kaptue

Database management is used in various BIM softwares, as it stores and manages data for building materials and pieces under its interface when the user is creating each portion of a project. The role of the database within programs like Revit, AutoCAD, eQuest, etc. is to develop a data storage structure that links within itself and through the parameters and the entities of the project being built. When viewing the databases within these systems, there are multiple interfaces presented. There is the view of the user’s data, the external model. There is also the system’s internal view of the data, the internal model. And finally, there is the logical view, the conceptual model. The external model is what the user sees, as the BIM software shows data in a table or chart that represents the dimensions, assembly, and other task-specific information of creations that were developed into the project. [1]

For example, let’s look at Revit. Users are able to view a material schedule of all the components of architecture and design that was integrated into the structure. One type of parameters that shows in the schedule is Omni Class data, as it shows the “list of components and its assemblies for families for permanent incorporation into construction entities”. [2] The keynote and assembly codes of each item in the schedule can also be listed to format assembly material within a family project. Ultimately, databases in BIM softwares can be used for “classification benefits, staying mainly in quantity estimation, cost estimation and planning and specs”. [2] They work as an assistant to the designers, as they track and data entries for a project on a step-by-step, piece-by-piece basis.

References

[1] Koriba, Mustapha. Database systems: their application in CAD design. September 1983. Available online March 3, 2003. DOI: 10.1016/0010-4485(83)90016-7 https://www-sciencedirect-com.ezproxy2.library.drexel.edu/science/article/pii/0010448583900167.

[2] Gomez, Almundena. Revit OmniClass, Keynote and Assembly Code type Parameters. May 19, 2015. https://www.modelical.com/en/revit-omniclass-keynote-and-assembly-code-type-parameters/

Comments:

Nick Maloney: I agree with your definition and discussion of SQL, as it is a structured query language that unlocks the potential of relational databases and structure of a relational database is such that information is stored in tabular format which links certain parameter values together by row. SQL is important because programs, especially some of the highly sophisticated BIM examples that have been shown in this course, rely on a massive amount of data in order to perform their intended functions.

Albert Hanan: You had a great discussion on the theory and purpose of relational model and how they are built to store connected data in a relationship. The use of Amazon Aurora is important, as it is built for the cloud that combines the performance and availability of high-end commercial databases with the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of open source databases.

Yidi Li: I agree with how important the use of database is in construction, as it controls the cash flow that feeds into a construction project. Database can track quantity estimation, cost estimation and planning and specs of a project; therefore, being on top of it and properly managing these database is essential to the success of a project.