Life cycle modelling and design knowledge development in virtual environments

As the construction industry adapts to new computer technologies, computerized design information, as well as construction and maintenance data, are all becoming increasingly available. Indeed, the growth of such data has begun to far outpace an individual’s ability to interpret and digest the embodied information. Such volumes of data clearly overwhelm the traditional methods of data analysis, such as spreadsheets and ad hoc queries. For instance, current information technology applied to facility maintenance utilizes databases to keep track of information and notification of maintenance schedules. However, these databases are not well linked with interactive 3D models of buildings, and are mostly presented in tabular formats. Applying techniques from a new area, called datamining and knowledge discovery, to the records of existing facilities has the potential to improve the management and maintenance of existing facilities and the design of new facilities. This will lead to more efficient and effective facilities management and maintenance through better planning, based on models developed from available maintenance data, resulting in more eco-efficient buildings. Furthermore, designers and facility maintenance managers will be better equipped to achieve higher performance by utilizing appropriate information technology techniques at their workplace.