Innovation and Improvements of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems for Modular Construction Using Building Information Modeling

Abstract

Modular construction is defined as structure units fabricated in a manufacturing plant away from the jobsite. In the building industry, prefabricated modules are normally completed with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) installed. Prior to the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software technology, the coordination of MEP systems had created major challenges for complex buildings and industrial plants and limited the potential for pre-fabrication in modular construction projects. The prefabrication coordination process has historically involved representatives from each all trades working together to locate equipment and route connecting elements for each system. The use of BIM software technology has facilitated the prefabrication coordination process and has increased the potential for prefabrication on multiple levels. This paper explores and presents the current research and demonstrates how BIM software technology can be utilized to further innovation and increase the opportunities for prefabrication of MEP systems for modular construction projects.