Physical 3D models have been used for decades to visualize City improvements in need of public approval and to help architects portray their ideas to the owner. Topographic contour maps have been used to visualize ground terrain in a two-dimensional environment for drainage studies, military strategy planning, city planning, etc. These models are often costly and take too long to construct.

Printed renderings are more easy and cost-effective to produce, but they lack the interactiveness of even the physical models.

The recent developments and adoption of Building Information Models (BIM) and intelligent 3D models have enabled architects and engineers to reach beyond just building a “pretty picture”. These “intelligent” models serve as a collaboration tool for designers working on different aspects of the project to visualize their designs and avoid any clashes during construction. Once the project is complete, this data can be used for detailed asset/facility life-cycle management.

The industry is now relying more on the virtual 3D models for design and construction and less on the typical 2D plans. However, we are still faced with the dilemma of having a working document that we can physically touch that represents the latest design. If only there was a way to have the best of both worlds – a 3D model on a 2D printed plan.

A while back I stumbled across Zebra Imaging through Twitter and after spending a day at their facility in Austin, Texas, I believe our industry is about to change. They produce full-color printed holographic images that can be used for numerous visualization applications including military planning project and concept demonstrations for investors.

3D is now a standard output for most CAD systems, and is commonly used for viewing terrain data and built environments. ZEBRA Imaging offers a product that allows you to view this data from more than one angle, without having to redraw the images on a computer screen. ZEBRA Imaging provides fairly large – 600mm by 800mm – flat media holograms. They are portable and can be created using a number of data sources; most importantly, they don’t require special tools (e.g. glasses or scopes) for viewing.

The holograms are used in a variety of ways, including military visualizations, project presentations and concept demonstrations for investors.

Monochrome view of New Orleans showing the Superdome.

From ZEBRA Imaging literature:

• 3-D perspectives are visible horizontally and vertically; one can look over and under the image and from side to side without glasses or goggles
• Wide angle of view – horizontal viewing is over 95 degrees, allowing many people to walk around and view an image simultaneously
• Allows for unlimited size while maintaining the integrity of the image
• Images are projected several feet in front of or behind the hologram and appear to be floating in air
• Compact and portable – images are flat or flexible plastic panels that can be stored and shipped easily, taking up very little space
• Any 3-D volumetric data set from any source may be used

ZEBRA’s capabilities also include the ability to produce holograms that change depending upon the viewer’s angle. This is beneficial when attempting to depict varying levels of a building, terrain, etc. It is also helpful when trying to portray a particular image before and after an event. For example, Zebra created 3D visual of the Lower Manhattan skyline before and after 9-11. From one angle, a view of the Twin Towers before the disaster can be seen and from another, the rubble in the aftermath.

Before 9-11. (Click for larger image)

After 9-11. (Click for larger image)

The four images below were used at the GEOINT Symposium to show the same corner at four different time periods. Each time the corner is viewed, it shows a different aspect of the structure.

(Click for larger image)

ZEBRA Imaging showed this example of generals looking at an urban area. The entire image is a color hologram – including the generals, the people in the background, etc.

Viewing a Zebra Imaging hologram is a viewing experience that is impossible to appreciate with the 2D limitations of a computer screen. The videos below give you an opportunity to understand how the real-world Zebra holograms appear through the lens of a 2D video camera.

Overview Video
A 2 minute overview showing a wide array of sample 3D Zebra holographic images
Windows Media – 5mb |  Quicktime – 24mb

Monochrome
A 15 second video that shows several monochrome samples (includes holograms not found in the Overview video)
Windows Media – 560k|  Quicktime – 3mb

Architecture

15 second video that shows several architectural holographic image samples
Windows Media – 640k |  Quicktime – 4mb

Automotive & Manufacturing

A 57 second video that shows automotive and other manufacturing 3D Zebra holographic images. Contains similar footage as the overview with a few more examples
Windows Media – 2.3mb |  Quicktime – 15mb

Industrial Design
30 second video containing several samples of industrial design holographic images
Windows Media – 1.2mb |  Quicktime – 5.4mb

This image shows an interesting real-world application for the Ford Motor Company.

A map is a model of reality that allows you to see, understand and analyze geography. ZEBRA Imaging’s offerings extend this model in a most interesting and utilitarian way.

Michael Klug, CTO of Zebra Imaging discusses the technology at Autodesk University 2009:

Austin – The Texas Facilities Commission (TFC), the agency within the State of Texas that oversees the state’s real estate development as owners and operators of state facilities, today announces its adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) for state design and construction projects.  For over a year, the Facilities Design and Construction (FDC) division within TFC has diligently worked to standardize the use of BIM for its future projects.  FDC is responsible for overseeing the design and construction of state facilities throughout Texas.  Currently, FDC manages 125 projects valued over $500 million, in addition to maintaining the Facilities Master Plan.  In an effort to promote workflow efficiency, streamline productivity and increase the return on investment for the State of Texas, FDC has adopted and encourages the use of BIM’s digital design technology.

This digital design technology, in the form of coordinated, data-rich BIM models, gives TFC and its architectural and engineering design professionals the ability to explore early design concepts in 3D, visually analyze and simulate projects before construction begins, help identify and reduce costly design conflicts, and work in a more collaborative way to produce a better, faster, and more cost-effective state building.  After construction, the BIM model becomes an evolving, digital representation of the actual building that can be used throughout a building’s life to facilitate the sharing of coordinated, consistent data among TFC’s design and construction partners; as well as TFC divisions tasked to maintain energy efficiency and maintenance services.

“Modernization has always been a central theme of my administration at the Texas Facilities Commission, and the BIM implementation is another part of that effort,” said TFC Executive Director Edward L. Johnson. “Modernization of our business practices, modernization of our real estate strategy, modernizing building design and construction . . . a part of everything we do is making use of the most innovative, state-of-the-art developments in both the public and private sector. Three years ago we embarked on making the Texas Facilities Commission the most sophisticated and professional real estate management and building design and construction organization that exists in the public sector. Becoming a leader in Building Information Modeling is an important step in that direction.”

The BIM model and process is a powerful tool for an owner of any size; but due to the number and scale of the TFC’s building and renovation ventures and the varied nature of construction types, ranging from office buildings and hospitals/labs to deferred maintenance projects, the integrated process allows for better informed decision making for all involved.  The BIM process helps architects, engineers, constructors, sub-contractors and vendors collaborate with an intelligent model, allowing them to visualize and simulate using precise data before any building material is purchased, brought to the site or erected.  Further, by making BIM the standard for all new buildings, TFC can begin to gauge energy usage, as well as forecast energy consumption based on model simulations; model multiple high-performance building scenarios based on minimal design time, simulate or identify security issues related to building type, and connect the model to existing databases or control systems for bi-directional, real-time data exchange.

“The BIM process allows the TFC and our private sector partners to collaborate from the start, share important data accurately and make better informed decisions earlier in the design process,” said Chris Tisdel, TFC’s Director of Building Information Modeling.  “The added visibility and workflow efficiency reduces unexpected delays, unforeseen costs and overall construction time, which is of great value for our large operations across the State of Texas.”

As a part of the adoption of BIM, TFC recognizes that the private sector will be looking to it for guidance and a clear definition of what BIM means to the state.  To that end, the FDC has developed a clear set of standards and guidelines that all private sector partners will have access to prior to any involvement in a state project.  Along with the guidelines, FDC has created an interoperable BIM template that all private sector partners will have made available to them for any State project.  The combination of the guidelines and template will enable any private sector partner just getting into BIM to save time and effort and provides them with a framework to build their own workflow and standards around.  TFC is committed to educating and working with those who design and build projects for the State, in a collaborative manner with the clear goal of making the BIM approach a positive one for all involved.  A video describing TFC’s adoption of BIM can be found on their website at: http://www.tfc.state.tx.us/communities/facilities/prog/construct/bim.wmv.

The State of Texas leads the way in BIM adoption and implementation, providing support, education and best practice standards to other state and local agencies that are also in varying stages of BIM adoption.  The pool of owner-entities adopting BIM within Texas is growing at a quickening pace as the state leads the way in encouraging a better way to design and build.  Industry and trade association leaders acknowledge that Texas has taken an innovative leadership role in adopting BIM.  By doing so, Texas closes the gap between it and the General Services Administration, the first major governmental agency to adopt BIM for new construction and leads all other States in the way it leverages BIM to support construction, energy, maintenance, and facilities operations within Texas.

Finally, BIM provides a coordinated, informed understanding of the design and building process for owners, designers and constructors.  As new construction grows at the state level, project expectations that include increasing complexity, a high level of transparency for decision makers, and accountability to taxpayers requires a new, but tested equally innovative approach to the traditional understanding of concept, design, scheduling, cost and implementation.  TFC has adopted that innovative approach in BIM and by doing so is leading the way on a national stage into the future of digital design and construction.

Source:http://www.tfc.state.tx.us/newsevents/texas-adopts-building-information-modeling-bim-capability
Contact: Mike Blackwell, TFC Marketing and Communications Specialist (512) 463-4237/(512) 791-9189 Michael.blackwell@tfc.state.tx.us

first BIM Forum, jointly organized by the BIM Task Force of the AGC Houston Chapter and Texas A&M University, comes to Houston on September 17, 2009. It is a one-day event where you will get a chance to hear challenges and issues that construction professionals may face when they use BIM to make proactive decisions for construction projects. So save your day on September 17, 2009 for the BIM Forum Houston 2009.

Date

September 17, 2009

Venue

Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel (3000 North Loop West Frwy, Houston, Texas 77092)

Program

Keynote Speakers

		Chris Tisdel, AIA LEED AP Director, Building Information Modeling, Texas Facilities Commission (TFC) Chris is currently working with the State of Texas, in an executive position, to enhance the design and construction process, as viewed from the Owner’s perspective, through the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM). In his role, Chris is developing the standard practices and procedures for the adoption of BIM for all construction for the State of Texas. His work with the Texas Facilities Commission puts him in a role to oversee the collection of 24 million square feet of existing buildings, along with all new scheduled and funded construction, into BIM, networking that information across the State. Chris holds a Master’s Degree in Architecture from Texas Tech University and has been working in his field prior to his role with the State for over a decade. His expertise lies in large, commercial projects where integration and collaboration were key to project success. In the creation of informed BIM processes, Chris has infused his knowledge of project delivery and workflow with practical production and management methods to develop a strong collection of BIM best practices. Prior to his position with the State of Texas, Chris worked with many architectural firms in a consultation role to aid them in migrating to BIM. He also taught BIM courses at Texas State University, San Marcos for 5 years in the Engineering and Construction Department. Chris is an Associate AIA member and LEED accredited professional. He resides with his wife, Misty, and his two children in Martindale, Texas.
		Stephen E. Sandherr Chief Executive Officer, Associated General Contractors of America Stephen Sandherr joined the AGC of America staff in 1984 as Assistant Director of Collective Bargaining Services. From 1986 to 1989 he served as AGC’s Director of Congressional Relations. He practiced law with the firm of Thompson, Mann and Hutson in Washington, DC from 1989 to 1990, and served as Labor and Small Business Counsel for the National Association of Home Builders from 1990 to 1991. He rejoined AGC as Executive Director of Congressional Relations and was promoted to Chief Executive Officer in 1997. Currently, as Chief Executive Officer, Sandherr’s role is to maintain relations with AGC’s 96 chapters nationwide, coordinate government relations activities and enhance AGC’s involvement with business coalitions. In 2006, the American Society of Association Executives cited AGC as one of 9 “remarkable” associations in its landmark study “7 Measures of Success: What Remarkable Associations Do That Others Don’t.” Sandherr is a 1980 graduate of the University of Scranton with a B.S. in Political Science. He earned his law degree from the Catholic University of America in 1983, and is a member of the Bar of the District of Columbia. He is a trustee of the National Building Museum in Washington. He resides with his wife, Cynthia, in Alexandria, Virginia.

Important Deadlines

8/6/2009 (Thursday): Submission of Presentation Abstract

8/13/2009 (Thursday): Acceptance of Presentations

8/27/2009 (Thursday): Pre-Registration

9/03/2009 (Thursday): Submission of Presentation Slides

Submission of Abstracts and Presentation Files

BIM Forum Houston 2009 organizing committee is pleased to invite construction professionals to present the latest accomplishments, innovations, challenges, and issues in terms of using BIM for their construction projects.

Theme

BIM: Challenges and Issues Facing Contractors

Areas of Interest

• BIM for Project Management
• Integrated Project Delivery
• BIM for Claim and Dispute Resolution
• BIM for Cost, Time, Quality, and Safety Management
• BIM for Construction Productivity Improvement
• BIM for Construction Education and Training
• State-of-the-Art BIM Technology
• BIM for Sustainable Construction

Submission of Abstracts (by August 6, 2009)

Potential presenters are required to submit an abstract (less then 300 words) of their presentation no later than August 6, 2009. The abstract must indicate the title and a brief description of your presentation. Please click the following link to download the abstract template. Please e-mail your abstract to Dr. Julian Kang (juliankang@tamu.edu).

[Click Here for an Abstract Template]

Notification of Acceptance (by August 13, 2009)

All submitted abstracts will be reviewed and selected by the Program Committee, and notified byAugust 13, 2009. Notification of acceptance will be sent by e-mail to the submitting presenters.

Submission of Presentation Files (by September 3, 2009)

The selected presenters must submit their presentation file to Dr. Julian Kang (juliankang@tamu.edu) by September 3, 2009. The PowerPoint slide template is available soon.

Registration

Registration fee

$100: Before or on 8/27/2009
$150: After 8/27/2009

Cancellation and Refund

If you are not able to attend the forum after registration, you should notify Dr. Julian Kang (juliankang@tamu.edu) in written form. Refund will be made upon the receipt of the request as follows:
- Request received until 8/27/2009: 70% refund
- Request received until 9/3/2009: 50% refund
- Request received after 9/3/2009: No refund

Organizers

Chairs

		George A. Pontikes, Jr. Chairman of the Board, AGC Houston Chapter President/CEO, Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, Inc. Houston, Texas
		Jerry Nevlud President/CEO, AGC Houston Chapter Houston, Texas
		Julian Kang, Ph.D. Associate Professor & Graduate Program Coordinator Harold L. Adams ‘61 Endowed Interdisciplinary Professor in Construction Science Department of Construction Science College of Architecture Texas A&M University College Station, Texas

Advisory Committee

		Charles L. “Chuck” Greco President & CEO Linbeck Group, LLC. Houston, Texas Chair, Lean Construction Task Group, National AGC of America Member, Board of Directors of the AGC Houston Chapter Member, Dean’s Advisory Council, College of Architecture, Texas A&M University Past Chairman, Industry Liaison Committee, National AGC of America Past President, AGC Fort Worth Chapter
		Fred Raley Chairman and CEO SpawGlass
		Jorge Vanegas, Ph.D. Professor & Dean of College of Architecture Sandy and Bryan Mitchell Master Builder Endowed Chair Director, Center for Housing and Urban Development Texas A&M University College Station, Texas
		Joe Horlen, J.D. Associate Professor & Department Head Charles Dewey McMullan ‘58 Endowed Chair in Construction Science Department of Construction Science College of Architecture Texas A&M University College Station, Texas

Program Committee

		William E. Bailey, AIA, LEED AP Senior Team Manager Linbeck Group, LLC. Houston, Texas
		Jason Choyce, LEED AP DPR Construction Austin, Texas Mr. Jason Choyce, LEED AP, serves as Project Executive for DPR Construction’s Higher Education projects in Texas and has been with DPR for 14 years. He is responsible for the overall success of projects on campuses throughout the state and for building and maintaining the collaborative relationships necessary for successful outcomes. Jason currently serves on the USGBC LEED for Health Care Core Committee, which is developing LEED certification criteria for health care projects. He also spearheads DPR’s Innovation initiative, Building Information Modeling program and is currently developing DPR’s Project Management software, driving ever-forward change and improvement to service for clients. Choyce received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California.
		Frank Graham BIM Director / Quality Assurance Director JE Dunn Construction Frank Graham is BIM Director and Quality Assurance Director for the South Central Division of JE Dunn Construction, one of the largest construction firms in the nation and consistently ranked in the top 10, according to ENR Magazine. As an Autodesk Revit Certified Instructor and recognized authority on Building Information Modeling, Frank is frequently requested to speak at professional organizations around the country. He has been featured in the following publications: Architectural Design, Focus, and Arkansas. Frank graduated from University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Architecture degree and is currently a member of American Institute of Architects, and Construction Specifications Institute.
		Naresh Kalla, LEED A.P. BIM Manager Weston Solutions, Inc. San Antonio, Texas
		Brandon Meyers, LEED A.P. Project Manager SpawGlass Construction Houston, Texas
		Doug Sinclair Total CAD Systems, Inc. Houston, Texas
		Sam Sprouse, PE BIM Manager / Pre-Construction Services Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, Inc. Houston, Texas Mr. Sam Sprouse, P.E., serves as Corporate BIM Manager / Pre-Construction Services for Satterfield & Pontikes Construction in Houston, Texas. He has been an integral member of the Satterfield & Pontikes Pre-Construction team for two and half years and has helped implement the corporate-wide usage of the Building Information Modeling (BIM) process as well as Practical Project Delivery (PPD)™ during his tenure. A 2002 graduate of Florida State University with Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in Civil (Structural) Engineering, he oversees the daily operations of the Building Information Modeling / Virtual Design & Construction department. Sam also manages the corporate estimating database management activities and initiatives. Sprouse holds professional engineering registration in Texas, Florida and Louisiana and is recognized as a Model Law Engineer by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveyors (NCEES).