Construction Virtual Prototyping

THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY
DEPARTEMENT OF BUILDING ESTATE
BSc (Hons) in Building Engineering and

Management
BRE 488 Dissertation
Construction Virtual Prototyping

Case Study of Ho Tung Lau Development
Author: CHAN KANG YUEN (03510381D)

Year of submission: 2006

DECLARTAION
DECLARTAION
I declare that this dissertation, entitled Construction Virtual Prototyping

Case Study of Ho Tung Lau Development represents my own work, expect
where due acknowledgement is made, and that it has not been previously
included in a thesis, dissertation or report submitted to this University or other
institution for a degree, diploma or other qualification.
________________
CHAN KANG YUEN

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has offered me valuable
information and advice in this dissertation.
First, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to my

supervisor, Prof. Heng Li, Professor at the Department of Building and Real
Estate in the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, for his advice and guidance.
I would like to devote my special thanks to Mr. Stephen Kong, Mr. Michael
Chan and Mr Ting Huang, the Project Associate, the Research Assistant and
PhD Candidate respectively who teach the application of CATIA V5 in
Department of Building and Real Estate in The Hong Kong Polytechnic
University, provide precious opportunities for me to participate in various
virtual prototyping projects and share their valuable experiences.
Besides, I would like to thank Mr. Shu Xian Wang, the project manager at the
China State Construction Engrg. (Hong Kong) Ltd., who attend my interviews
in this construction virtual prototyping project with his tight schedule.
At last, I would also like to express my thanks to my family members and

friends for their generous support and efforts.
ii

ABSTRACT
Abstract
Construction Information Technology (IT) is a hot and new topic in local
construction industry in recent years as Information Technology makes a great
impact on construction industry all over the world, specially Virtual
Prototyping.
Virtual Prototyping can provide a capacity to construct in the computer.

After the information is input, it creates a three-dimensional model and
simulation environment that is capable to simulate the production, fabrication
and assembly of construction components, including the associated operational
processes in the computer.
The case study of Virtual Prototyping comes from The China State
Construction Engrg. (Hong Kong), Foundations and Railway Depot Works for
Ho Tung Lau (Site A) Development project. The CATIA system is applied in
this project as it equips the functions of 3D model and simulation process to
allow the team to have a whole picture of the work.
iii

TABLE OF CONTENT
Table of content
DECLARTAION ......................................................................................... i
Acknowledgement .................................................................................. ii
Abstract .................................................................................................. iii
Table of content ..................................................................................... iv
List of Figures .......................................................................................viii
List of Tables ......................................................................................... xii
CHATPER 1 - Introduction......................................................................2
1.1
Introduction......................................................................2
1.2
Problem Statement ............................................................2
1.3
Research Objective ...........................................................3
1.4
Research Methodology .....................................................4

1.4.1 Literature review ..............................................................4
1.4.2 Use of CATIA V5 Mechanical Design..............................4
1.4.3 Use of DEMLIA V5............................................................4
1.4.4 Interview ...........................................................................5
1.5
Dissertation Organization ...............................................6
CHATPER 2 - Literature Review .............................................................8

2.1
Information Technology (IT) .............................................8
2.2
Construction and Computers .........................................10
2.3
Overview of Construction Applications......................... 11
2.4
Computer Aided Design..................................................14
2.5
Virtual Prototyping ..........................................................14
2.6
The Background of CATIA ..............................................15

2.6.1 Boeing 777 .....................................................................15
iv

LIST OF CONTENT
2.6.2 Walt Disney Concert Hall ..............................................16

CHATPER 3 - CATIA V5 Environment ..................................................18
3.1
Introduction......................................................................18
3.2
Workbench.......................................................................18
3.2.1 Product Structure
3.2.2 Part Design
............................................................18
3.2.3 Assembly Design

3.2.4 Sketcher
...................................................18
..................................................19
.................................................................19
3.3
CATIA V5 Document Types .............................................19
3.4
The CATIA V5 Standard Screen Layout .........................20

3.4.1 Start Menu ......................................................................20
3.4.2 The Standard Windows Tool bar ..................................21
3.4.3 The Specification Tree...................................................26
3.4.4 Plane representation .....................................................27
3.4.5 3D Compass ...................................................................27
3.4.6 Current Workbench .......................................................27
3.4.7 The Tools Toolbars ........................................................27
3.4.8 Power Input Mode..........................................................27
3.4.9 Mouse Control (Viewing tools) .....................................28
3.5
Conclusion.......................................................................28
CHATPER 4 - Case Study of Ho Tung Lau Development ...................30

4.1
Introduction......................................................................30
4.2
The background information of the site ......................30
4.3
The location of the site..................................................31

v

LIST OF CONTENT
4.4
Using CATIA system on this project ............................32
4.5
The production of the site layout .................................33
4.6
The production of 3D Virtual Resources .....................42

4.6.1 Gantry .............................................................................42
4.6.2 LTM1500 mobile crane ..................................................44
4.7
The production of the part elements............................47

4.7.1
The sample of creating the Column (Assembly File)

51
4.7.2
4.8
Ho Tung Laul Model .................................................76

The production of the process simulation ..................77
4.8.1 Creating process simulation.........................................78

4.8.2 Editing process simulation...........................................83
4.8.3 Viewing a Simulation.....................................................85
4.9
Conclusion.......................................................................86
CHAPTER 5 - Analysis using virtual prototyping on Ho Tung Lau

Development .........................................................................................94
5.1
Benefits of using virtual prototyping in the building
industry 94
5.1.1 Identification of possible planning error .....................94
5.1.2 Evaluation of innovative construction method in a
virtually real environment ......................................................94
5.1.3 Identification of idle time and resources .....................95
5.1.4 Good communication between project staff from top
management to worker level .................................................95
5.1.5 Better understanding on the design ............................95
vi

LIST OF CONTENT
5.2
Limitation of using virtual prototyping in the building
industry 96
5.2.1 High hardware configuration ........................................96
5.2.2 High price and license Fee............................................96
5.2.3 High training cost and labour cost...............................97
CHAPTER 6 - Conclusion.....................................................................99
6.1
Conclusion .....................................................................99
6.2
Recommendation...........................................................99
Reference ............................................................................................102
Bibliography ........................................................................................103
Appendix .............................................................................................105
Appendix I
Interview Letter................................................106
Appendix II
Interview Question ..........................................107
vii

LIST OF FIGURES
List of Figures
Figure
Title
Page
No.
Figure 2.1
Boeings 777 airliner digital model by CATIA
16
Figure 2.2
Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles
16
Figure 3.1
CATIAV5 Standard Screen
20
Figure 3.2
Start Menu
21
Figure 3.3
File menu options
22
Figure 3.4
Edit menu options
22
Figure 3.5
View menu option
23
Figure 3.6
Insert menu options
24
Figure 3.7
Tools menu option
25
Figure 3.8
Window menu option
26
Figure 3.9
Help menu option
26
Figure 4.1
The map of the site 1
31
Figure 4.2
The map of the site 2
31
Figure 4.3
Master Layout
35
Figure 4.4
Site Layout
35
Figure 4.5
Road & Building Layout
35
Figure 4.6
Rail Layout
36
Figure 4.7
Existing Pad
36
Figure 4.8
Railway
37
Figure 4.9
Tai Po Road Layout
37
Figure 4.10
Beam and Girder Layout
38
Figure 4.11
Minipiles Layout
39
viii

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 4.12
Wall Layout
39
Figure 4.13
Tracks
39
Figure 4.14
Concrete Platform Layout
40
Figure 4.15
Ground Layout
40
Figure 4.16
Train and Podium
41
Figure 4.17
Gantry machine
42
Figure 4.18
Detail of gantry machine
43
Figure 4.19
Control of gantry
43
Figure 4.20
LTM1500 mobile crane
44
Figure 4.21
The detail of LTM1500 mobile crane
45
Figure 4.22
Control of LTM1500 mobile crane
46
Figure 4.23
The typical sample of columns which is Structural Steel
Column SC33A
49
Figure 4.24
The inside view of columns
50
Figure 4.25
The wireframe view of columns
50
Figure 4.26
Part Design Workench
52
Figure 4.27
Contextual Menu
53
Figure 4.28
Properties
53
Figure 4.29
Using Profile tool
54
Figure 4.30
Using Rectangle tool
54
Figure 4.31
Using Constraint
54
Figure 4.32
Constraint Definition
54
Figure 4.33
After editing on constraint
55
Figure 4.35
Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel
56
Figure 4.36
Structural Steel Column SC53A Grout
56
ix

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 4.37
Steel Column Top Plate TP53A
57
Figure 4.38
Steel Column Base Plate BP53A
57
Figure 4.39
Proporties
58
Figure 4.40
60
Figure 4.41
Inserted all components all one product
60
Figure 4.42
Dragged element
62
Figure 4.43
Dragged all elements
62
Figure 4.44
Snapped element 1
63
Figure 4.45
Snapedp element 2
63
Figure 4.46
Inserted the element
64
Figure 4.47
Finished the insert
64
Figure 4.48
Open Column Layout
66
Figure 4.49
Placed One Structural Steel Column
66
Figure 4.50
Placed All Structural Steel Columns
67
Figure 4.51
Save as CGR
69
Figure 4.52
Replace Component
69
Figure 4.53
Macros
71
Figure 4.54
Create a new macro
71
Figure 4.55
Marco Editor 1
71
Figure 4.56
Marco Editor 2
71
Figure 4.57
Ho Tung Lau Model
76
Figure 4.58
Ho Tung Lau Model in DELMIA
77
Figure 4.59
Activity Creation Options
79
Figure 4.60
Jog window
79
Figure 4.61
Delay Window
80

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 4.62
Edit Visibility Operation 1
81
Figure 4.63
Edit Visibility Operation 2
81
Figure 4.64
The tree of the simulation activities
82
Figure 4.65
PERT Chart
83
Figure 4.66
Gantt chart
84
Figure 4.67
Ho Tung Lau Model in DELMIA
86
Figure 4.68
Process Simulation 1
87
Figure 4.69
87
Figure 4.70
88
Figure 4.71
88
Figure 4.72
89
Figure 4.73
89
Figure 4.74
90
Figure 4.75
90
Figure 4.76
91
Figure 4.77
91
Figure 4.78
92
Figure 4.79
92
xi

LIST OF TABLES
List of Tables
Table
Title
Page
No.
Table 3.1
Document Type
19
Table 3.2
Table of mouse control
28
Table 4.1
Table of background information of site
30
Table 4.2
Table of Command in Gantry
43
Table 4.3
Table of Command in LTM1500 mobile crane
46
Table 4.4
The structure of all CATIA file in Ho Tung Tau Model
49
Table 5.1
Software price list
97
xii
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Introduction
1.2
Problem Statement
1.3
Research Objective
1.4
Research Methodology
1.5
Dissertation Organization

CHATPER 1
CHATPER 1 - Introduction
1.1
Introduction
Nowadays, Construction IT is a hot and new topic in construction industry in

recently years in Hong Kong as Information Technology has made a great
impact on construction industry, specially Virtual Prototyping. It is one of the
computer system which is newly applied in local industry.
1.2
Problem Statement
As the development of the computer, the construction virtual prototyping is

become more important. The construction virtual prototyping is an essential
ingredient in the conceptualization and realization of a design. Virtual Object and
the simulation have now shown as an intermediary between architects, engineers
and clients.
At present, most of building construction drawings is drawn by Computer Aided

Design (CAD) for example, AutoCAD, Mircostation. Although CAD is a very
powerful software to illustrate the details of layout of building construction, it is
not user-friendly. It is found that some of construction workers still confuse with
drawing and misunderstand during the construction process. Besides, some of
undergraduate students also find difficulties in applying this software. Because of
these, it might be concluded that AutoCAD and Mircostation are insufficient to
assist in the process of building construction. Therefore, a better CAD is need for
construction industry.

CHATPER 1
1.3
Research Objective
The CAD technology is very useful for building construction as it allows design
work to be more efficient and effective to share ideas with others. The French
programmer developed a user-friendly and powerful drawing which is CATIA.
Virtual prototyping (CATIA) will be applied in 3-D building design and
simulation process. In order to illustrate the application of the software, a
building would be constructed as a 3D model and the construction process of the
building such as the process of the column construction, beam construction, etc
will be simulated.
The objectives of this research are as follows:

1. To outline benefits and limitations of the application of Information
technology in local construction industry specially in Computer Aided
Design and Visualization
2. To study on the function of CATIA V5 system
3. To study on the model design and simulation process through case study on
Ho Tung Lau Development project at the Construction Virtual Prototyping
Laboratory in The Hon Kong Polytechnic University
4. To find out the benefits and drawbacks of applying CATIA V5 to the local
construction industry

CHATPER 1
1.4
Research Methodology
According to the problem statement of the research, the dissertation is based on

data collection from two parts, namely literature review and desk study by
CATIA V5 and DELMIA V5 on Ho Tung Lau Development project.
1.4.1 Literature review

The literature review of the dissertation is obtained from professional
journals, articles, books and internet which is related to the IT construction
specially Computer Aided Design.
1.4.2 Use of CATIA V5 Mechanical Design

CATIA V5 (Computer-Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Applications
Verson 5) is a mechanical design which provides a special tool to illustrate
the generation of production drawings and three-dimensional part. It can
provide integrated real-time rendering capabilities and support different
types of drawing formats. Therefore, CATIA Mechanical Designs tools
provide advanced three-dimensional oriented productivity features, such as
advanced specification graph display.
1.4.3 Use of DEMLIA V5

DELMIA V5 (Digital Enterprise Lean Manufacturing Intergrated
Application Version 5) is a brand for digital manufacturing and simulation
solutions from Dassault Systemes. It provides entire digital solutions for
manufacturing process such as aircraft manufacture, car manufacture and
building construction.

CHATPER 1
DELMIA has three main functions such as Process Planning, Process and
Resource Plan Definaiton and Resource Modelling and simulation.
Process Planning provides a obvious overview of the working
sequences and links which is related to time and resources.
Process and Resource Plan Definaiton provide tools to verfiy or
redefine 3D process.
Resource Modelling and simulation provide tools to model and
simulate the building and buidling process by using robotic work.
1.4.4 Interview
In the interview, Mr. Wang the project manager of the China State
Construction Engrg. (Hong Kong) Ltd shared his ideas and experiences on
construction virtual prototyping project on Foundations and Railway Depot
Works for Ho Tung Lau Development.
.

CHATPER 1
1.5
Chapter 1
Dissertation Organization
identify the problem statement of this dissertation. Research

objectives and reseach methodology of this dissertation are also
included in this Chapter.
Chapter 2
reviews the literature of the IT construction specially Computer

Aided Design and the history of CATIA
Chapter 3
describes the CATIA V5 environment
Chapter 4
demonstrates desk study on Foundaitons and Railway Depot

Works for Ho Tung Lau Development project by CATIA V5 and
DELMIA V5
Chapter 5
analyses and discusses the application of CATIA V5 on

construction industry
Chapter 6
concludes this dissertation and recommends for further research
CHAPTER 2
Literature Review
2.1
Information Technology
2.2
Construction and Computers
2.3
Overview
of
Construction
Applications
2.4
Computer Aided Design
2.5
Virtual Prototyping
2.6
The Background of CATIA

CHATPER 2
CHATPER 2 - Literature Review

2.1
Information Technology (IT)
Information Technology is the applications of a wide variety of electronic

technologies on the information-handling activities. It is an integration of computing
technology and information processing which builds up new systems and products to
assist people to work, to learn as well as live.
Information Technology (IT) is defined as The use of electronic machines and

progames for the programs for the processing, storage, transfer and presentation of
information. IT encompasses many technologies such as computers, software,
networks and even telephones and fax machines. Bjork, (1999)
Lucas (2000) defined IT as all form of technology applied to processing, storing and
transmitting information in electronic form.
Besides, according to Laudon, Kenneth C (1995) claims that IT can be grouped into
four categories: Sensing, Communication, Analyzing and Display.
Sensing Technologies
Devices assist to gather data (raw unprocessed facts) from the environment and
translate them into a form that can be understood by a computer fall within the
category of sensing technologies.
Communication Technologies
Technologies which tie together and transmit information between sensing,
8

CHATPER 2
analyzing, and display technologies are communication technologies.

Analyzing Technologies
Computer hardware (a physical equipment) and software (programs or
instructions that tell the computer what to do) come with the category of
analyzing technologies. Computers take in the data from sensing and
communicating devices and then store and process the data, transform them into
useful information.
Display Technologies
Devices and related software that make processed data available to human users,
either through sight or sound, make up our last category of information
technologies. Display technologies from the interface, or connection, between
sensing, communicating, and analyzing technologies and the human user.

CHATPER 2
2.2
Construction and Computers
Since the rapidly developed computer is launched, some programmers have started to
develop software for construction industry such as Computer Aided Deign to assist
the complex drawing.
A Graphical User Interface feature, together with those fairly large and expensive
computers, formed the prime platform on which the idea of Computer Aided Design
(CAD) was invented (Li 1995).
From Laudon, Kenneth C (1995) explained the relationship between construction and
computers. The construction process usually results in a unique product, a specific
building for a specific context of site conditions and client requirements. On one hand,
this requires a detailed evaluation and appraisal of building performance during the
design stages where IT applications can be of great help. On the other hand, design
consultants are reluctant to invest in learning the skills required for IT systems and
collecting data for operating the systems, when the benefits are perceived as limited.
10

CHATPER 2
2.3
Overview of Construction Applications
IT applications are used for a wide range of construction industry such as initial
design, estimating and job costing, through to detailed design and project
management.
According to Ming Sun and Rob Howard (2004) claims that construction applications
can be categorized into six parts:
Business and Information Management
The construction process is an information intensive one which a huge amount of
information is generated and consumed and all the professionals involved. The
common type of information includes site survey, cost analysis. design drawings,
specifications, regulations, bill of quantities, project planning, job costing and
estimates, etc. The information is presented in a range of paper drawings,
documents, correspondence, fax, computer files or e-mails. An Electronic
Document Management (EDM) system, such as TDOC or OpenDoc, can create
an environment which links disparate forms of information together, in the
context of a project or organization, to achieve easy access and control.
Computer Aided Design and Visualization

Computer Aided Design (CAD) software is widely adopted by design
professionals. The initial drawing alone does not show the clear advantages of
CAD, since experienced designers can draw on the drawing board equally fast.
The real strength of CAD lies on its ability to allow editing. Once a graphic is
drawn, functions such as delete, move, copy, rotate, scale, mirror, etc., can be
applied. AutoCAD has the largest share of the CAD market. Other popular CAD
11

CHATPER 2
packages include Microstation, ArchiCAD, MiniCAD, FastCAD, etc.
Building Engineering Applications

Clients of construction industry have ever-higher expectations. They want their
buildings to look good visually, to be safe structurally, to provide comfortable
living environments to their occupants, and to consume less energy in operations,
etc. The ever more complex demands on the buildings design process have urged
to the need to a new approach to building engineering design based on computer
software. For example, CADLink from Cymap and the HEVACOMP package
both offer a comprehensive range of software options for energy, lighting, and
building services design.
Computer Aided Cost Estimating

Controlling costs is one of the most important missions in a construction project.
To achieve the control, contractors and sub-contractors must first carry out an
accurate cost estimation and establish budget. Rigorous project accounting must
then be employed to ensure the actual expenditure will not exceed its budget.
Project managers or estimators may also use different methods to prepare the
cost estimation for construction projects. At present, there are sophisticated
computer software packages such as Esti-Mate, Manifest and FBS-Estimator.
Planning, Scheduling, Site Management

Construction work requires careful planning and skillful management for human
and physical resources. Computer systems can assist on site managers to plan
ahead, evaluate different options, adopt and execute the most efficient
12

CHATPER 2
construction operations. Apart from a widely application of planning packages

such as Microsoft Project, Primavera, Power Project, etc., to program and
schedule the detailed construction activities, some applications, like JobMaster
and ICON are also adopted.
Computer Aided Facilities Management

Facilities Management (FM) is a relatively new discipline that emerged in the
early 1980s. It gets a wide recognition of the importance of the building
operation and maintenance and their impacts on the life cycle cost of a building.
The software available for facility management has been developed from a
combination of CAD and database management systems.
13

CHATPER 2
2.4
Computer Aided Design
Computer Aided Design such as AutoCAD and MicroStation is widely utilized in the
construction industry as it can create and demonstrate an imaginary building to satisfy
the needs of clients. Clients and designers need to share the ideas while using virtual
prototyping CAD.
According to G. Aound, A. Lee and S. Wu (2005), Computer Aided Design is an

essential tool of the production of drawings in construction industry. The upstream
CAD data mainly remains in the form of 2D geometry data, compiled by
entity based CAD software such as AutoCAD and MicroStation.
According to Ming Sun and Rob Howard (2004), there is a great need of the
advancement of more powerful computer workstations as users are now demanding
methods to view these 3D models as shaded, photo-realistic images. Visualization is
the production of such images using computer systems.
2.5
Virtual Prototyping
Virtual Prototyping provides a large capacity to construct in the computer. It can

provide a creating 3D model and simulation environment that allows the production,
fabrication and assembly of construction components, including the associated project
operational processes, to be simulated in computer and demonstrated to the users.
CATIA V5 is one of the Virtual Prototyping application.
14

CHATPER 2
2.6
The Background of CATIA
CATIA (Computer-Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Applications) is the Product

Life Cycle Management / Computer-Aided-design / computer aided manufacturing /
computer aided engineering (PLM/ CAD/CAM/CAE) commercial software suite for
digital product definition and simulation developed by Dassault Systemes. In 1981,
Dassault Systemes formed a strategic partnership with IBM to distribute the
development of CATIA all over the world. As CATIA is a powerful tool for drawing,
it has a built-in capacity to capture and reuse the implementation of the design
practices. Nowadays, CATIA becomes one of the popular product development
system in the world as it is widely used in the digital mockup process.
2.6.1 Boeing 777

Boeing Commercial Airplanes has used CATIA V4 to develop and create the
Boeing 777, which is the first airplane to be 100 percentage digitally designed
and preassembled on computer. According to the virtual prototyping, Boeing 777
Airplane Group won the top award in the Manufacturing category of the 1995
Computerworld Smithsonian Awards program. Afterwards, the Boeing 787 or
Dreamliner series aircraft also adopt the system of CATIA V5 in their
construction.
15

CHATPER 2
Figure 2.1 Boeings 777 airliner digital model by CATIA

(Source: Boeing Commercial Airplane Group)
2.6.2 Walt Disney Concert Hall

Disney Concert Hall is very complex. It has many curve structure which can be
drawn and demonstrated by CATIA. Besides, CATIA can make precise
documentation. The CATIA mechanical design system has revolutionized what
had primarily been an engineering application. (James Steele, 2002).
Figure 2.2 Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles

(Source: http://www.gehrytechnologies.com/)
16

CHATPER 3
CHAPTER 3
CATIA V5 Environment
3.1
Introduction
3.2
Workbench
3.3
CATIA V5 Document Types
3.4
Overview
of
Construction
Applications
3.5
The Specification Tree
3.6
Conclusion

CHATPER 3
CHATPER 3 - CATIA V5 Environment

3.1
Introduction
This Chapter is intended to introduce to the CATIA V5 environment.

3.2
Workbench
In CATIA V5, workbench is a characteristic feature. Workbench means a working

environment which allows users with unique functionality to create and manipulate
geometry.
3.2.1 Product Structure

The performance of this CATIA V5 is a product structure. In this program, the
structure of product is organized as a logical structure comprising a large number
of assemblies, sub-assemblies and parts. For example, assemblies consist of
levels of building, sub-assemblies consist of each room and parts consist of
reinforcement and wall in a building. Numerous tools are similar or duplicates of
tools found in the Assembly Design Workbench.
3.2.2 Part Design

This workbench allows the design of precise 3D mechanical parts with an
intuitive and flexible user interface. It is core mechanical solid modeling
capability.
18

CHATPER 3
3.2.3 Assembly Design

This workbench allows the design of assemblies with an intuitive and flexible
user interface. Also, it can be cooperatively applied with other current
companion products such as Part Design.
3.2.4 Sketcher
This workbench allows the design of sketch precise and rapid 2D profiles. Also,
it is tied closely to Part Design workbench.
3.3
CATIA V5 Document Types
Different CATIA V5 workbenches generate different types of document files.
Document Types
.CATPart
WorkBench
Sketcher
Part Design
Product Structure
.CATProduct
Assembly Design
CATProcess
Process and Resource Definition
Workcell Squencing
Table 3.1 Document Type
(Source: Kang Yuen Chan,2006)
19

CHATPER 3
3.4
The CATIA V5 Standard Screen Layout
This section describes the main components of the CATIA V5 user inferface. The
following standard screen layout shows you where different tools bars and icons.
3.4.1
3.4.2
3.4.3
3.4.5
3.4.7
3.4.4
3.4.8
Figure 3.1 CATIAV5 Standard Screen

3.4.1 Start Menu

The Start menu bar is the main menu for opening the different environments. You
can access to various CATIA V5 workbenches and product portfolios. The option
of the workbenches depends on the licenses configuration. The Start menu will
keep track of the last models used in session in order to provide quick retrieval.
20

CHATPER 3
Figure 3.2 Start Menu

3.4.2 The Standard Windows Tool bar

The Standard Windows tool bar is consistent with the Microsoft Windows
environment. There are different CATIA V5 tools found in the different pull
down menus. There are various shortcuts into the user inferface.
File Menu
This Menu is similar to the most MS Windows applications. Opening and closing
documents are the primary functions of this section.
21

CHATPER 3
Edit Menu
This Menu is similar to the most MS Windows applications. There are common
functions such as cut, copy and paste. Also this menu allows for the manipulation
of objects within the CATIA V5 environment.
Figure 3.4 Edit menu options

Figure 3.3 File menu options

22

CHATPER 3
View Menu
This Menu provides a many of the tools that can be accessed from bottom
toolbar, quick keys and contextually for different model geometry. Toolbar
menus allows user to toggle on and off within this menu option for
customizing the user environment.
Figure 3.5 View menu option

23

CHATPER 3
Insert
This Menu provides the creation, manipulation and insertion of geometry
elements with the object. Most of the Insert tools are alternative tools which are
depending on the active workbench.
Figure 3.6 Insert menu options

24

CHATPER 3
Tools
This Menu provides utilities for customizing the user environment, capturing
images, macro application for Visual Basic Language, and quickly showing or
hiding common geometry element types.
Figure 3.7 Tools menu option

25

CHATPER 3
Windows
This Menu is similar to the most MS Windows applications. The first section can
display the different documents to be vertically, horizontally, or in cascading
fashion. It is useful for user to coordinate the display. The bottom section shows
how many documents are open.
Help
The Help menu provides access to CATIA V5 Complete Content, Index and
search screen as well as find out License and Release information.
Figure 3.8 Window menu option

Figure 3.9 Help menu option

3.4.3 The Specification Tree

CATIA V5 provides a particular history of tools and processes, which captures and
reuses process specification in order to accelerate the design process. You can click
the and + sign located on each branch to expand and contract the specification tree.
Also, you can Zoom In, Zoom Out and Pan the Specification Tree the same way you
would a part.
26

CHATPER 3
3.4.4 Plane representation

XY, YZ and ZX planes are represented in the workspace and Specification Tree. If
you select any one plane from Specification Tree, you will highlight its plane for
using.
3.4.5 3D Compass
Viewpoint representations which are used to capture viewpoints can be manipulated
by using compass. The object can be manipulated by dragging and dropping the
compass on a surface of object. Non-constrained objects can also be manipulated by
using compass. However, groups of objects in assemblies which are linked to each
other by constraints can be manipulated.
3.4.6 Current Workbench

This icon displays the active workbench. In different workbenchs such as part design,
assembly design and Sketcher, different tool bars and tools can be provided to use.
3.4.7 The Tools Toolbars

The toolbar changes depending on which workbench you are in.
3.4.8 Power Input Mode

Its mode is for advanced user. It allows user to directly enter commands or queries.
27

CHATPER 3
3.4.9 Mouse Control (Viewing tools)

Control the mouse
Click the middle mouse button
Function
Center the display at a specific location
Press and hold down the middle mouse button Pan the view
and then drag
Press and hold down both the middle mouse Rotate the view
button and the left (or right) mouse button and
then drag
Press and hold down the middle mouse Zoom In or Out
button, then click the left (or right) mouse
button once and drag
Table 3.2 Table of mouse control
3.5
Conclusion
This Chapter has introduced to the CATIA V5 environment and basic function of
CATIA V5.
28
CHAPTER 4
4.1
Introduction
4.2
The background information of

the site
4.3
The location of the site
4.4
Using
CATIA
system
on
this
of
the
site
of
3D
project
4.5
The
production
layout
4.6
The
production
Virtual
Resources
4.7
The
production
of
the
part
elements
4.8
The
production
simulation
4.9
Conclusio
of
process

CHAPTER 4
CHATPER 4 - Case Study of Ho Tung Lau

Development
4.1
Introduction
The China State Construction Engrg. (Hong Kong) Ltd. has invited Professor
Heng Li,
Department of Building & Real Estate of The Hong Kong
Polytechnic University to draw the 3D drawing and make the simulation in the
construction process of one of their project, Foundations and Railway Depot
Works for Ho Tung Lau (Site A) Development.
4.2
The background information of the site
Information
Ho Tung Lau (Site A) Fo Tan East of Fo Tan
Address of Site
Station Area bounded by Tai Po Road Shatin,

Lok King Street, Jubilee Garden & Nullah
Shatin Town Lot No 470
GFA Domestic
--
GFA Non-Domestic
2073.5
Authorized Person
Ronald Lu
Registered Structural Engineer
Kwan Kin Kei
Applicant
Full Fair Ltd
Project Period
2004.04-2007.05
Table 4.1 Table of background information of sitel
30

CHAPTER 4
4.3
The location of the site

The red colour area is the location of the site
Figure 4.1 The map of the site 1

(Source: http://www.centamap.com)
Figure 4.2 The map of the site 2

(Source: http://www.centamap.com)
31

CHAPTER 4
4.4
Using CATIA system on this project
The CATIA system is applied in this project as it is capable to draw a whole

picture to meet the requirements of different parties. Its application can be
divided into three parts. They are as follows.
First, it is the production of 3D models. Site environment (Site environment

(including site layout, on site buildings, surrounding buildings, roads inside and
surrounding the site), precast beams and slabs (including concrete and
reinforcement), temporary supports (including formworks, scaffoldings, struts
and working platforms) and in- situ concrete elements (including concrete and
reinforcement).are drawn.
Second, the production of 3D Virtual Resources is LTM1500 mobile crane (3D

models production, setting of speeds and loading capacity properties) and
Workers of all types of trade (3D models production and setting of
productivities).
At last, the process simulation sets up site environment, events sequence and
duration, and resources usage, as well as builds up virtual processes in 3D
environment (including plants movement, workers movement, erection of precast
elements, visualization of temporary support works and concreting works) and
produces PERT chart, program Gantt chart and resources Gantt chart.
There are four main processes to produce this project
1.
the production of the site layout
2.
the production of the part elements
32

CHAPTER 4
3.
the production of 3D Virtual Resources
4.
the production of process simulation
4.5
The production of the site layout
Site layout is an essential element of drawing 3D models as it points out the

exactly location of the models. For this development, as the site consists of Fo
Tan Station and its surrounding buildings, its site layout will be more complex.
Master Layout (Fig.4.3) Plan includes

1.
Site Layout
(Site Layout.CATPart)
(Fig.4.4)
2.
Road & Building Layout
(Road & Bldg Layout.CATPart)
(Fig.4.5)
3.
Rail Layout
(Rail Layout.CATPart)
(Fig.4.6)
4.
Existing Pad
(Existing Pad.CATPart)
(Fig.4.7)
5.
Railway
(Railway.CATPart)
(Fig.4.8)
6.
Tai Po Road Layout
7.
Beam and Girder Layout (Beam and Girder Layout.CATPart)
(Fig.4.10)
8.
Minipiles Layout
(Minipiles Layout.CATPart)
(Fig.4.11)
9.
Wall Layout
(Wall Layout.CATPart)
(Fig.4.12)
10. Tracks
(Track.CATPart)
(Fig.4.13)
11. Concrete Platform layout
(Concrete Platform.CATPart)
(Fig.4.14)
12. Ground foundation
(Ground.CATPart)
(Fig.4.15)
(Tai Po Road.CATPart)
(Fig.4.9)
13. Train Station and Podium(Train_Station_and_Podium.CATPart) (Fig.4.16)

(.) is the file name in CATIA V5.
Layout drawing is very complicated part in CATIA V5 and time consuming. As

all existing layout plans of this site are AutoCAD file (dwg), this AutoCAD type
33

CHAPTER 4
file (dwg) cannot be used in CATIA V5. However, the other AutoCAD type file
(dxf) can be opened and applied by CATIA V5.
Therefore, the file type of these layouts is translated from dwg to dxf by
AutoCAD 2004. All layouts (dxf) then can be opened on the CATIA V5
environment but it cannot be edited by CATIA V5. To deal with this problem, all
files are saved as the format of CATIA type file (CATPart) which can be edited in
CATIA V5.
Figure 4.3 Master Layout

34

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.4 Site Layout

Figure 4.5 Road & Building Layout

35

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.6 Rail Layout

Figure 4.7 Existing Pad

36

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.8 Railway

Figure 4.9 Tai Po Road Layout

37

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.10 Beam and Girder Layout

Figure 4.11 Minipiles Layout

38

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.12 Wall Layout

Figure 4.13 Tracks

39

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.14 Concrete Platform Layout

Figure 4.15 Ground Layout

40

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.16 Train and Podium

41

CHAPTER 4
4.6
The production of 3D Virtual Resources
The production of 3D Virtual Resources is Gantry and LTM1500 mobile crane.

The functions of these two 3D Virtual Resources are to generate the
transportation of the all types of elements in the simulation process. These two
transportation machines are also created by CATIA V5 assembly design, part
design and advanced command for control the action. They are applied in
different stages of the production. The Gantry and LTM1500 mobile are applied
in the first stage and second stage respective.
4.6.1 Gantry
The Gantry can generate the rail roads and does not affect the transportation of
rail. There are four gantry cranes which connect one gantry hock on gantry as
well as move along the rail.
Figure 4.17 Gantry machine

42

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.18 Detail of gantry machine

By selecting the Create a Device Move Activity icon.
, the Jog window will
appear on the screen. The gantry, Gantry Car and Gantry Hook can be moved by
the adjustment of value in the window.
Table 4.2 Table of Command (Source: Kang Yuen Chan,2006)

DOF Controls
Function
Command 1
Moving Gantry along the rail
Command 2
Moving horizontal Gantry Car1
Command 3
Command 4
Moving Vertical Gantry Hook1
Command 5
Command 6
Command 7
Command 8
Command 9
Figure 4.19 Control of gantry

43

CHAPTER 4
4.6.2 LTM1500 mobile crane

The LTM1500 mobile crane has better mobility and takes shorter time to set-up.
It can be applied on the podium, pad. As Ho Tung Lau site is a very crowded site,
it is more convenient for the worker to use the transportation machine with high
mobility. Besides, there is one hook of this transportation machine to allow the
worker to transport materials in all directions.
Figure 4.20 LTM1500 mobile crane

44

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.21 The detail of LTM1500 mobile crane

By selecting the Create a Device Move Activity icon.
, the Jog window will
appear on the screen. Adjusting the angle projection of the CraneArm, extending
the length of CraneArm1-5, adjusting the angle projection of the RopeHolder,
moving Vertical Hook and rotating the whole of CraneArm can be used on this
window.
45

CHAPTER 4
DOF Controls
Function
CraneBaseRev
Adjusting the angle projection of the

CraneArm
CraneArm1
Extending the length of CraneArm1
CraneArm2
CraneArm3
CraneArm4
CraneArm5
RopeHolderRev
Adjusting the angle projection of the
HookVerticalPosit
RopeHolder
Figure 4.22 Control of LTM1500

mobile crane
Moving Vertical Hook
ion
Command 9
Rotating the whole of CraneArm
Table 4.3 Table of Command in LTM1500 mobile crane

46

CHAPTER 4
4.7
The production of the part elements
In this site, there are numerous parts of elements (1957 files) to establish the Ho
Tung Lau Model. You should remember the concept of the CATIA V5. The
model has many assembly parts. In the Assembly workbench, it is easy for users
to place component parts and sub-component together to form finished
assemblies.
There are all assembly files which include many components parts.
No
Assembly File
Part File
Bracing
Bracing Layout
Sub-Part File
Bracing-A-D34 to
Bracing-A-D51
2
Girder

Steel Beam Layout
SG-D33 to
SG-D53
Steel Beam

Bracing Layout
Steel Beam Layout
SB-7 to
SB-41-9
T-Beam
Beam Layout
T-Beam-D33
T-Beam-D33-01 to T-Beam-D33-26,
47

CHAPTER 4
T-Beam-D33-Joint
T-Beam-D33-Part
T-Beam-D33-Top
to T-Beam-D52
T-Beam-D52-01 to T-Beam-D52-26,
T-Beam-D52-Joint
T-Beam-D52-Part
T-Beam-D52-Top
Trusses

Steel Beam Layout
truss-1
Truss-1-Grid
ST-1-a to
ST-1-e8
to truss-4
Truss-4-Grid
ST-4-1 to
ST-4-3
Columns
Structural
Steel
Column
SC33A

to Structural Steel Column
SC53A

Train
Station
and Podium
Podium
Train_Station
48

CHAPTER 4
Present D32
8
Track
Track
Ground
Ground
10
Existing Pad
Existing Pad
Table 4.4 the structure of all CATIA file in Ho Tung Tau Model
The Columns (Assembly) such as is typical sample for creating the assembly file
as it includes many components part. For example, Structural Steel Column
SC33A
(Fig. 4.23) is a one part product contains four sub-part elements which is
Structural Steel Column SC33A Steel, Structural Steel Column SC33A Grout,
and Steel Column Base Plate BP33A. Next part
will show the step of creating the whole Structural Steel Column SC33A.
Figure 4.23 The typical sample of columns which is Structural Steel Column SC33A
49

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.24 The inside view of columns

Figure 4.25 The wireframe view of columns

50

CHAPTER 4
4.7.1
The sample of creating the Column (Assembly File)
There are seven steps to create the Column Structural Steel Column SC33A
A. Creating the Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel .etc using
Sketcher & Part Design
B. Changing the color of 3D model
C. Inserting components into the Assembly Design Workbench
D. Moving components in the Assembly Design Workbench using the Compass
and Snap Tool
E. Setting up Site Layout
F. Changing CATProduct to CGR
G. Automating the Modification Using a Marco
51

CHAPTER 4
A.
Creating the Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel .etc using

Sketcher & Part Design
1.
Start CATIA V5
2.
By default CATIA V5 will bring up the Product Structure Workbench.

Select the Part Design Workbench
from Start pull down menu or the
Welcome To CATIA V5 window.
Figure 4.26 Part Design Workench

52

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.27 Contextual Menu

3.
Figure 4.28 Properties

With the Part1 branch highlighted use your Right mouse button to activate
the Contextual Menu.
4.
Select Properties (Fig. 4.27).
5.
From the Properties window select the Product tab. This will show you
the Part Number (Fig. 4.28).
6.
For the New Part box type in Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel.
7.
Select OK to change the name of part1.
8.
Notice that a Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel branch was just
created in the Specification Tree. If you expand the Structural Steel
Column SC53A Steel branch you will have a Specification Tree.
9.
Enter the Sketcher Workbench
10. Use the Profile
using the ZX Plane.
tool.
11. Create 12 lines in succession and click the End Point to the Start Point (Fig.
4.29).
53

CHAPTER 4
12. Use the Rectangle
tool.
13. Create the rectangle inside the previous drawing (Fig. 4.30).
Figure 4.29 Using Profile tool

14. Select
the
Figure 4.30 Using Rectangle tool

Constraint
tool.
15. Select the all lines to be
constrained (Fig. 4.31).
16. Double click on the value box
of the Dimensional Constraint
Figure 4.31 Using Constraint

you want to modify. The value

box is the green dimension line with an attached with an attached value.
17. The
Constraint
Definition
window will pop up (Fig. 4.32).

This window shows the existing
value for the Sketcher element.
18. Edit the value by typing over the
Figure 4.32 Constraint Definition

existing value.
19. Apply the new value by selecting the OK button or pushing the Enter key
54

CHAPTER 4
(Fig. 4.33).
20. Exit the Sketcher Workbench. This will put you back into the Part Design
Workbench.
Figure 4.33 After editing on constraint

21. Select the Pad
tool.
22. The Pad Definition window appears.

23. In the First Limit area, enter 11405mm for the Length box. Leave the
Type box set at Dimension.
24. In the Profile section, the Selection box should show Sketch.1.
25. Select the OK button.
26. Then, the Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel is finished (Fig. 4.35).
Other three part components such as Structural Steel Column SC53A Grout,
Steel Column Top Plate TP53A and Steel Column Base Plate BP53A are
55

CHAPTER 4
created by using previous Sketcher and Part Design. (Fig. 4.36 - 4.38 )
Figure 4.35 Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel

Figure 4.36 Structural Steel Column SC53A Grout

56

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.37 Steel Column Top Plate TP53A

Figure 4.38 Steel Column Base Plate BP53A

57

CHAPTER 4
B.
Changing the color of 3D model
However, the 3D model of Steel Column Top Plate TP53A and Steel Column
Base Plate BP53A
should be filled in orange color. This process should be added
between part A in step 8 and 9.

1.
With the Part branch highlighted use your Right mouse button to activate
the Contextual Menu.
2.
Select Properties (Fig. 4.39).
3.
From the Properties window select the Graphic tab.
4.
Select the suitable color in the fill color box.
5.
Select OK and then the color of all 3D models will be changed.
Figure 4.39 Proporties

58

CHAPTER 4
C.
Inserting components into the Assembly Design Workbench
There are four part components to insert the Assembly Product Design.
1.
Select the Assembly Design Workbench
2.
With the Product1 branch highlighted use your Right mouse button to
from Start pull down menu
activate the Contextual Menu.

3.
Select Properties to edit the name in Structural Steel Column SC53A.
4.
The top of the Specification Free must be selected before components can
be inserted into the Assembly Design Workbench.
5.
Double click on the Structural Steel Column SC53A. There are two
methods of selecting an Existing Component. Select the Existing Component
tool or use your Right mouse button to activate the Contextual Menu
and then select Components (Fig. 4.40), Existing Component. Then the
File Selection
6.
window will appear on the screen.
In the File Selection window, select the document that was saved earlier in
named Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel. Select the Open button. The
part should appear on the screen.
7.
Repeat the step 6 and 7 to open Structural Steel Column SC53A Grout,
8.
and Steel Column Base Plate BP53A.
All the components will appear on the screen (Fig. 4.41).
59

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.40 Steel Column Base Plate BP53A

Figure 4.41 Inserted all components all one product

60

CHAPTER 4
D.
Moving components in the Assembly Design Workbench using
the Compass and Snap Tool
The location and orientation of the assembly components can also be

manipulated by using the Compass tool. The Compass tool was briefly illustrated
below.
1.
From the Specification Tree, select the Structural Steel Column SC53A
Steel
2.
branch.
Place the Compass tool on the Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel
Surface. The Compass tool will turn green indicating that the selected
component can be manipulated. For detail instructions on how to
manipulate the Compass tool refer back (Fig. 4.42).
3.
Select the Z-axis on the Compass tool and drag it to the approximate
location to prevent the overlap other components. The Structural Steel
Column SC53A Steel
4.
will move along with the Compass.
By previous step, the components can be dragged to the approximate

location (Fig. 4.43).
5.
With Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel highlighted, select the Snap
tool.
6.
Select the first line of the Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel component
and then select the second line of the Structural Steel Column SC53A Grout
component. The first line of the Structural Steel Column SC53A Steel
component will be moved to the position which projected onto the second
line (Fig. 4.44).
7.
Select the first point which is angle of the Structural Steel Column SC53A
61

CHAPTER 4
Steel
component and then select the second point which is angle of the
component. The first point of will be
moved to the position. The two points are coincident. Structural Steel
Column SC53A Steel
Column SC53A Grout
component will be moved inside Structural Steel

component (Fig. 4.45 - 4.46).
By using compass and Snap Tool, all the components can be moved onto their
exact locations (Fig. 4.47).
Figure 4.42 Dragged element

Figure 4.43 Dragged all elements

62

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.44 Snapped element 1

Figure 4.45 Snapped element 2

63

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.46 Inserted the element

Figure 4.47 Finished the insert

64

CHAPTER 4
E.
Inserting Column Layout and Structural Steel Column SC33A to
SC53A
1.
Select the Assembly Design Workbench from Start pull down menu.
2.
Select Properties to edit the name in Columns.
3.
Select OK to change the name of product1.
4.
Double click on the Columns. There are two methods of selecting an

Existing Component.
Select the Existing Component
tool and then
select Components, Existing Component.

5.
In the File Selection window, select the document that was saved earlier in
named Column Layout. Select the Open button. The part should appear on
the screen (Fig. 4.48).
6.
Double click on the Columns. Select the Existing Component tool. Select
Structural Steel Column SC33A to SC53A.
Select the Open button. The part
should appear on the screen.

7.
By using the Compass and Snap Tool, the Structural Steel Column SC33A to
SC53A can
be placed on the suitable position (Fig. 4.49 - 4.50).
65

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.48 Open Column Layout

Figure 4.49 Placed One Structural Steel Column

66

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.50 Placed All Structural Steel Columns

67

CHAPTER 4
F.
Changing CATProduct to CGR
CATIA V5 is powerful software. The requirement of this system is very high

specially the simulation process. It is good for the users to adopt smaller files so
as to run the program smoothly.
In this Structural Steel Column SC53A.CATProduct, there are five files such as
Steel Column Base Plate BP53A.CATPart, Steel Column Top Plate TP53A.CATPart,
Structural Steel Column SC53A Grout.CATPart, Structural Steel Column SC53A
Steel.CATPart
and Structural Steel Column SC53A.CATProduct. As the total size of
these five files is 365K and the overall size of the Structural Steel Column is
16.3MB, the workload of the computer is very heavy. In order to ensure the
smooth operation of the program, reducing file size is necessary.
Changing the types (format) of file can be saved the memory. The file type
changes from CATProduct to CGR. But, the drawback of CGR is that this file
cannot edit the drawing.
1.
Open file Structural Steel Column SC53A.CATProduct
2.
Select File, Save As. This will bring up the Save as window (Fig. 4.51).
3.
Select file type to CGR and then OK. (The file name is Structural Steel
Column SC53A.CGR)
The new file size is 29.2KB that is reduced 92%. After the file sizes reduction,
CATProduct
is then replaced by CGR.
68

CHAPTER 4
4.
Open file Columns.CATProduct
5.
With Structural Steel Column SC53A highlighted, selecting the Replace

Component
tool and then Select Components, Replace Component.
Then the File Selection window will appear on the screen (Fig. 4.52).
6.
Select file Structural Steel Column SC53A.CGR and then select the Open
button or pushing the Enter key.
Figure 4.51 Save as CGR

Figure 4.52 Replace Component

69

CHAPTER 4
G.
Automating the Modification Using a Marco
Reduction of file size is a good method to save the memory but this process
should be repeated more times as many files should be edited. Fortunately,
CATIA V5 has macro function. This function is a powerful tool when it comes to
accomplishing a process that is repeated times and times. All the CATProduct can
be saved and replaced automatically to the CGR by one button.
1.
Open file Columns.CATProduct
2.
Select Tools, Macro, Macros. This will bring up the Macros window (Fig.
4.53).
3.
Select the Create button. This will bring up the Create a new macro window
and then select the OK button or pushing the Enter key (Fig. 4.54).
4.
Select the Edit Button. This will bring up the Macros Editor window shown
in Figure (Fig. 4.55).
5.
Type the below Language="VBSCRIPT" command in the blank of Macros

Editor.
6.
Save the edits and then close the Macros Editor window (Fig. 4.56).
7.
The Macros window should still be on the screen. Select the Run button.
The program runs that from Structural Steel Column SC33A.CATProduct to

Structural Steel Column SC53A.CATProduct
save as from Structural Steel
Column SC33A.cgr to Structural Steel Column SC53A.cgr
and then from
Structural Steel Column SC33A.CATProduct to Structural Steel Column

SC53A.CATProduct
will replaced the position in the Columns file by from
70

CHAPTER 4
Structural Steel Column SC33A.cgr
Figure 4.53 Macros

to Structural Steel Column SC53A.cgr .
Figure 4.54 Create a new macro

Figure 4.55 Marco Editor 1
Figure 4.56 Marco Editor 2
71

Language="VBSCRIPT" command
CHAPTER 4
Sub CATMain()
Set productDocument1 = CATIA.ActiveDocument
Set documents1 = CATIA.Documents
Set product1 = productDocument1.Product
Set products1 = product1.Products
Set productDocument4 = documents1.Item("Structural Steel Column SC44A.CATProduct")
productDocument4.ExportData "E:\China State\CATProduct\Columns\column cgr\Structural
Steel Column SC44A.cgr", "cgr"
Set product4 = products1.Item("Structural Steel Column SC44A.1")
Set Nothing1 = products1.ReplaceComponent(product4, "E:\China
State\CATProduct\Columns\column cgr\Structural Steel Column SC44A.cgr", True)
Set productDocument5 = documents1.Item("Structural Steel Column SC44B.CATProduct")
Steel Column SC44B.cgr", "cgr"
Set product5 = products1.Item("Structural Steel Column SC44B.1")
State\CATProduct\Columns\column cgr\Structural Steel Column SC44B.cgr", True)
72

CHAPTER 4
73

CHAPTER 4
74

CHAPTER 4
End Sub
75

CHAPTER 4
4.7.2
Ho Tung Laul Model
According to previous method, all type of assembly files can be created. By the
Master Layout and all type of building elements, Ho Tung Lau 3D model can be
created and save as Ho Tung Lau Model. CATProduct (Fig. 4.58).
Figure 4.57 Ho Tung Lau Model

76

CHAPTER 4
4.8
The production of the process simulation
1.
Start DELMIA V5
2.
Select the DPM - Process and Resource Definition
from Start pull down
menu
3.
With the Product branch highlighted and select Insert, Insert Product
This will bring up the File Selection window.

4.
Select Ho Tung Lau Model. CATProduct. The Ho Tung Lau Model should
appear on the screen (Fig. 4.58).
Figure 4.58 Ho Tung Lau Model in DELMIA

77

CHAPTER 4
4.8.1 Creating process simulation

There are sive main essential activities in process simulation below:
A.
Creating Activities to a Process
B.
Creating logical activities
C.
Creating a Device Move Activity
D.
Creating a Simulation Delay Activity
E.
Creating a Visibility Activity
F.
Combined using previous activities
A.
Creating Activities to a Process

1.
Select the Insert Activity icon
in the Activity Management
toolbar.
2.
B.
The Activities to a Process appears in the PPR tree.

The function of logical activities ensures the action of
activity. Start and Stop activities may be automatically
created inside the activity.
1.
Select the logical activities icon on the logical activities toolbar.
2.
The logical activities appears in the PPR tree.
78

CHAPTER 4
C.

According to the production of 3D Virtual Resources, Full set of robotic
motion of a robot can be used. By creating a Device Move Activity, the
machines such as Gantry and LTM1500 mobile crane can be moved.
1.
Select the Create a Device Move Activity icon.
The Activity
Creation window will appear on the screen (Fig. 4.59).

2.
Select the location for the activity and select the OK button.
3.
On the PPR tree e, select the device you want to move.
4.
Select the joint jogging tab and adjust the value of command (Fig.
4.60).
5.
Select the Modify Activity and then Close.
6.
The Device Move Activity appears in the PPR tree.
Figure 4.59 Activity Creation Options
Figure 4.60 Jog window
79

CHAPTER 4
D.
In the whole process, the delay is required to simulate the processing time for
some non-motion activities
1. Select the Create Simulation Delay Activity icon
. The Activity
Creation window will appear on the screen.

2. Select the location for the activity and select the OK button. The Delay
window appears in the bottom right corner.
3. Enter the length of the delay (in seconds) in the Duration box and select
the OK button. The delay activity appears in the PPR tree (Fig. 4.61).
4. The duration of the delay can be modified by selecting the Delay Activity
on the PPR tree with the right mouse button and using the context menu.
Figure 4.61 Delay Window

80

CHAPTER 4
E.
Creating a Visibility Activity
A function of visibility activity is to hide or show parts, provide a transparent

view of a part and provide a different color for a part. .
1.
Select the Create a Visibility Activity icon.
The Activity Creation
window will appear on the screen.

2.
Select the location for the activity and select the OK button.
3.
The Visibility Activity appears in the PPR tree.
4.
The preview window appears and the Edit Visibility Operation window will
appear on the screen.
Case 1
showing component part (represented under construction)
In the Edit Visibility Operation window, select Show Selected and Set in color
tab. Then select red color and select the OK button (Fig. 4.62).
Case 2
showing component part (represented finish)
In the Edit Visibility Operation window, select Show Selected and reset in
color tab. Then select the OK button (Fig. 4.63).
Figure 4.62 Edit Visibility Operation 1

2
Figure 4.63 Edit Visibility Operation
81

CHAPTER 4
F.
Combined using previous activities
By previous five main essential activities, the typical one whole activity can be
done (Fig. 4.64). The Step is
1.
Adding Activities to a Process
2.
3.
4.
5.
Creating a Visibility Activity Case 1
6.
7.
Creating a Visibility Activity Case 2
8.
Figure 4.64 The tree of the simulation activities

82

CHAPTER 4
4.8.2 Editing process simulation

There are two essential functions to edit the process simulation.
A.
Opening the PERT chart

A PERT Chart
is a graphical presentation of a process. The box represents
each activity with the process. All activities have some links to one another
or to logical operators. It can edit the link between any activities.
1.
Select the Open PERT Chart icon

PPR tree.
and Select an activity on the
The PERT Chart of the process window will appear on the
screen.
2.
In the PERT Chart, the activities belonging to the selected activity will
be shown (Fig. 4.65).
Figure 4.65 PERT Chart

83

CHAPTER 4
B.
Opening the Gantt chart

A Gantt chart is bar graph of a process. It can show and edit Begin Time and
End Time as well as dependencies. In DELMAIN V5, the Gantt chart is one
of several available 2D views of the process. It is similar to MS Project.
1. Select the Open Gantt chart icon
tree.
and Select an activity on the PPR
The Gantt chart of the process window will appear on the screen
(Fig. 4.66).
2. Begin Time, End Times and duration can be edited.
Figure 4.66 Gantt chart

84

CHAPTER 4
4.8.3 Viewing a Simulation

1.
Select the Workcell Squencing
2.
Select the Process Simulation icon.
3.
The icon turns orange. The Process Simulation command box and a
from Start pull down menu
Simulation Control Tools toolbar appear.
Goto start
Pause
Step forward
Play
Goto end
Simulation mode: Single/continuous.
Shows the continuous simulation mode

button.
Step size (To increase or decrease the
speed of the simulation)
Shows Simulation time
It is last part of simulation. After all setting and creating, the simulation can be
run by this Process Simulation icon.
85

CHAPTER 4
4.9
Conclusion
After the input of information in DELMIA by previous methods, the process

simulation can be run (Fig. 4.67). The process simulation is saved as process
simulation in the disc. (Fig. 4.68 - 4.)
Figure 4.67 Ho Tung Lau Model in DELMIA

86

CHAPTER 4
Figure 4.68 Process Simulation 1


87

CHAPTER 4


88

CHAPTER 4


89

CHAPTER 4


90

CHAPTER 4


91

CHAPTER 4


92
CHAPTER 5
Analysis using virtual prototyping on Ho
Tung Lau Development
5.1
Benefits
of
prototyping
in
using
virtual
the
building
using
virtual
the
building
industry
5.2
Limitation
prototyping
industry
of
in

CHAPTER 5
CHAPTER 5 - Analysis using virtual prototyping

on Ho Tung Lau Development
5.1
Benefits of using virtual prototyping in the building
industry
According to an interview with Mr Wang (2006), benefits of using virtual prototyping

in the construction industry can be concluded as follows.
5.1.1 Identification of possible planning error

It is an important step for planning construction. The early identification of possible
planning error can reduce the total project sum. Simulation process can be used to
identify the planning error obviously. Sometimes, the duration of construction of
column and beam may be overlapped. By using simulation, the planning error can be
shown easily.
5.1.2 Evaluation of innovative construction method in a virtually real

environment
Virtual Prototyping can assist an evaluation of innovative construction method in a
virtually real environment greatly. Sometimes, project manger has an innovative idea
on construction. By using innovative construction method on real environment may
cause risks and make errors. However, they are unacceptable. The construction virtual
prototyping allows those innovation construction methods to be processed in the
computer.
94

CHAPTER 5
5.1.3 Identification of idle time and resources

Virtual Prototyping can identify idle time and resources as well as new alternatives to
achieve optimization of the program. It can prevent wastage of time and resources.
Therefore, it can develop a detailed and improved construction program with
minimum time and resources.
5.1.4 Good communication between project staff from top management

to worker level
One benefit of virtual prototyping is to reduce the communication problem between
project staff. Communication problems between project staff from top management to
worker level always appear in construction industry. The workers may confuse and
misunderstand during the construction process. This simulation process can give
dissemination of holistic and is easy to understand the planning information to project
staff from top management to worker level.
5.1.5 Better understanding on the design

Some building designs are very complicated which is difficult for contractors to
understand. CATIA can provide better illustration to contractors on the building
designs since the shape of building, the detail of building elements such as joints and
connections can be clearly shown by 3D model on the computer. Holtzman (2002)
explained that using CATIA can minimize the discrepancy between different
contractors work as everyone is directly referencing a single, complete, 3D model. It
can reduce time to understand building design and avoid misunderstanding. Then, the
duration of construction and the contract sum of the project can be minimized.
95

CHAPTER 5
5.2
Limitation of using virtual prototyping in the building
industry
In spite of the numerous benefits of using CATIA system, there is still some critical
limitations of using virtual prototyping.
5.2.1 High hardware configuration

The hardware configuration in computer is very high. For example,
Hardware configuration: 1.
Pentium 4
3.0GB CPU
2.
2.0GB DDR RAM
3.
80GB of available Hard disk space
4.
256MB (128bit) Display card
In the case of Ho Tung Lau development. Ho Tung Lau Model contains 2,360
components elements. Although the hardware configuration is very powerful, the
running simulation process time is still too slow. If more complex building is created,
the higher hardware configuration will be needed.
5.2.2 High price and license Fee

Another problem is the price and license fee of the CATIA and DELMIA software. It
is an unbelievable price. According to Dassault Systemes, CATIA V5 products can be
ordered in three ways:
As an integral part of a standard configuration
As an add-on to a configuration
As a license that can be shared by moving between configurations
96

CHAPTER 5
CAD Software (One user)
Price
AutoCAD LT2007
US$ 849.99
MicroStation V8
US$ 398.96
CATIA V5 (standard configuration)
US$ 64,100.00
(Price come from Amazon.com and Stephen(2006))
All of the above configurations consist of four to twelve products. Each product is
sold individually. From the price table, it can be seemed that CATIA is very expensive.
The firms need to pay for the license subscription fee annually when they adopt the
softwares. Moreover, the price of high hardware requirement is quite expensive.
Because of the high running cost, most of firms cannot afford to pay such price. Also,
according to Wang (2006), our firm cannot buy this software as CATIA is very
expensive.
5.2.3 High training cost and labour cost

CATIA is not simple CAD software. It is quite complex software. The firm must
provide the CATIA training course for staff who should have high learning capacity in
CAD. The time of training course is quite long. According to the training and labour,
the firm will spend a lot on providing the training course and labour.
According to Holtzman (2002), the training and labour for CATIA is expensive, as
some CATIA V5 products can require a lot of training.
97
CHAPTER 6
Conclusion
6.1
Conclusion
6.2
Recommendation

CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 6 - Conclusion
6.1
Conclusion
Construction Virtual Prototyping was demonstrated by using CATIA V5 system

through the case study of Ho Tung Lau Development. It is an innovation method and
useful tool that assists the development of construction industry to get into a new
century. Construction Virtual Prototyping brings various benefits to construction
practitioners because it can identify possible planning error, evaluate innovative
construction method in a virtually real environment, identify idle time and resources
and disseminate holistic as well as set up communication channels between project
staff of different levels to allow the transmission of planning information.
However, it is not very common for construction practitioners to apply CATIA V5 in

local construction industry because of different limitations as mentioned in previous
chapter. For examples, high requirements of computer hardware configurations, high
cost of purchasing software and annual license fees as well as high training cost and
labour cost.
CATIA brings various benefits to construction practitioners but it is not commonly

applied in local construction industry because of high cost. It is expected that this
software can be widely adopted to assist the development of construction industry in
near future.
6.2
Recommendation
The Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,
99

CHAPTER 6
provides the valuable opportunity for students to learn and practice new technology. It
is not only allow students to acquire new technology, but also bring new technology
into local construction industry. I was encouraged to take this valuable chance to
participate in this dissertation to look into the application of construction virtual
prototyping to learn new skills and investigate.
it is recommended that more innovative software can be invented and adopted in local
construction industry so that the productivity of local construction industry can be
improved.
100
Reference & Bibliography
Reference
Bibliography

REFERENCE AND BIBLIOGRAPHY
Reference
Boeing (1995). Boeing 777 Digital Design Process Earns Technology Award. Boeing.
News Release, June 14, 1995
J. Glymph et al. (2004). Automation in Construction 13. (2004) 187-202
Ming Sun and Rob Howard (2004). Understanding I.T. In Construction. London and
New York : Spon Press, 2004
Bjork, B.C. (1999). Information Technology in construction: domain definition and
research issues. International Journal of Computer Integrated Design and
Construction, NO. 1,pp.3-17
Lucas, Henry C. (2000). Information Technology for Management, 7th ed. Boston:
Irwin/McGraw-Hill
Laudon, Kenneth C (1995). Information technology: concepts and issues. Boyd &
Fraser, pp4-10
Autodesk(2006). Autodesk Homepage. Available at:http://www.autodesk.com
Dassult Systems (2006). Enhanced co-operation to support PLM research for
Architectural, Engineering, and Construction Industry. Available at:
http://www.3ds.com
G.. Aound, A. Lee and S. Wu (2005). The Utilization of Building Information Models
In nD Modelling: A Study of Data Interfacing and Adoption barriers. April 2005
at http://www.itcon.org/2005/08/
Li, R. (1995). Review in the application of CADD in AEC projects The Hong Kong
experience. HKIA Journal, Vol.2, No.1, pp.73-77
Holtzman (2002). Technology Curve. Architecture. December 2002, Vol. 91 Issue 12,
p140, 2p, 2c.
102

Bibliography
Cozzens, Richard (2004). Advanced CATIA V5 Workbook : CAD/CAM engineering
technology, SDC Publications. c2004.
Cozzens, Richard (2004). CATIA V5 Workbook, releases 12 & 13, SDC Publications.
c2004.
Du Lirong, Lin Bozheng bian zhu (2000). CATIA dian nao fu zhu she ji yu shi wu ying
yong. Taibei : Quan hua ke ji tu shu gu fen you xian gong si, Minguo 89
Fred Karam, Charles Kleismit (2004). Using CATIA V5. Clifton Park, N.Y. :
Thomson/Delmar Learning, c2004.
Kalay, Yehuda E. Architecture's new media: principles, theories, and methods of
computer-aided design. Cambridge, Mass. : MIT Press, c2004.
Kenny T.C. Tse, Andy K.D.Wong and Francis K.W. Wong(2005). Modeling Objects
and Interfaces in Building Information Modeling
Malkawi, Ali. And Augenbroe, Godfried. Advanced building simulation. New York,
NY : Spon Press, 2003.
Mr Stephen Kong (2005), Virtual Prototyping Powerpoint
Papamichael, Konstantinos Michael. Design process and knowledge : possibilities
and limitations of computer-aided design. Ann Arbor, Mich. : U.M.I., 2003,
c1991.
Retik, A. (Arkady). Computer integrated planning and design for construction.
London : Thomas Telford Pub., 2001.
Xie Wenxiang, Xie Wenhe bian zhu (2003). CATIA V5 ling jian she jian. Xinzhuang
Shi [Taiwan] : Tai ke da tu shu gu fen you xian gong si Minguo 92
You Chunfeng ... deng bian (2003). CATIA V5 shi yong shou ce. Jin jie ying yong
103

pian, Taibei Shi : Zhi cheng shu wei ke ji gu fen you xian gong si
http://www.3ds.com/corporate/about-us/brands/catia/
http://www.3ds.com/corporate/about-us/brands/delmia/
http://www.building.com.hk
http://www.catia.ibm.com
http://www.gehrytechnologies.com
104
Appendix
Appendix I
Interview Letter
Appendix II
Interview
Question

Appendix
Appendix I Interview Letter

1 March 2006
Dear Mr. Wang
Re: Request for an interview
I am a final year student of BSc (Hons) in Building Engineering and Management at
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. I am conducting a research for my final year
dissertation on Construction Virtual Prototyping Case Study of for Ho Tung Lau
Development under the supervision of Professor Heng Li.
I would be most grateful if I could visit you in person to talk about Construction
Virtual Prototyping. The interview will not last for longer than 30 minutes.
Attached please find a list of my proposed topics / questions for discussion during the
interview. I look forward to hearing from you and meeting you very soon. Meanwhile,
I can be contacted at mobile phone 9833 3157 or by email: 03510381d@polyu.edu.hk
for any enquiries or clarifications.
Thank you for your kind attention and help with my dissertation.
Yours sincerely,
Mr CHAN Kang Yuen, Neo
Student of BSc (Hons) in BEM
BRE, PolyU
Encl.: Draft questions in intervie

106

Appendix
Appendix II
Interview Question
Interview Questions
1. What is the great help of simulation process in Virtual Prototyping by using

CATIA V5?
2. What is the difference between CATIA V5 and other CAD software such as
AutoCAD?
3. Is it worth to spend time on using CATIA V5?

Why?
4. Do you purchase CATIA V5 for Computer-Aided-design in your company?

Why?
5. What do you think about Virtual Prototyping in Construction industry?
6. Do you invite Professor Heng Li, BRE, PolyU to create the 3D Model and
make the simulation process again for other building project?
107

Construction Virtual Prototyping - Ho

Încărcat de

Informații document

Titlu original

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Construction Virtual Prototyping - Ho

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

DEPARTEMENT OF BUILDING ESTATE

BSc (Hons) in Building Engineering and

BRE 488 Dissertation

Author: CHAN KANG YUEN (03510381D)