BIM- and 4D-based integrated solution of analysis and management for conflicts and structural safety problems during construction: 1. Principles and methodologies

Strengthening construction safety analysis and management is of great social and economic significance. For a long time, however, there has been a lack of effective management tools in this important area that involves people's lives and property. Based on new developments in the Building Information Model (BIM), four-dimensional (4D) technology, time-dependent structural analysis, collision detection, and so on, a 4D structural information model is presented and established according to the overall solution of analysis and management for conflict and safety problems during construction. Based on this sub-BIM, the integration of dynamic safety analysis of time-dependent structures, conflict analysis and management of schedule/resource/cost, and dynamic collision detection of site facilities is studied, and theories and key technologies are discussed in detail. The results of this research provide a feasible theory and methodology for integrated applications of BIM. Furthermore, this study proposes a new approach for conflict and safety analysis during construction through the integration of construction simulation, 4D construction management, and safety analysis. The approach lays a foundation for the popularization of complicated theories and methodologies, and has theoretical significance and application prospects in meeting the needs of improving the safety level during construction. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.