Ontology-Based Framework for Checking the Constructability of Concrete Volumetric Construction Submodules from BIM

Volumetric construction, of which prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction ( PPVC) is a specific type, offers numerous advantages such as reduced project duration, decreased on-site manpower, and better project quality over traditional construction methods. Additionally, in regions of high humidity, concrete volumetric construction modules offer greater maintainability than steel or timber. Hence, concrete volumetric construction is widely adopted in tropical built-up areas. However, concrete modules are heavy and methods to reduce the lifting weight are necessary. One such method is to partition concrete modules into smaller submodules or components that can then be joined onsite. Such a method offers a compromise in terms of faster installation, as well as smaller crane requirements. Despite the advantages, determining any optimal partition is computationally hard. Moreover, not all submodules are constructible; several constraints such as transportation, crane lifting capacity, and structural rigidity exist. To determine the constructability of a volumetric construction submodule, an ontology-based representation is developed from its building information model ( BIM). Rules are defined to identify the constructible submodules from the ontology-based representation. The rules are validated using test cases against expert judgement, and shown to be accurate in identifying constructible concrete volumetric construction partitions.