Database-supported and web-based visualization for daily 4D BIM

Four-dimensional (4D) building information modeling (BIM) (3D BIM plus time) is a powerful tool to visualize and communicate construction plans and milestones. A potential use of 4D BIM is to support daily construction operations and progress monitoring and tracking based on the premise that the latest version of the 4D model including daily construction progress is shared among the project participants. However, in the current practice, file-based 4D BIM has limitations in sharing and visualizing the latest construction progress information in a timely manner because of information delay and data inconsistency issues. Leveraging the advancements in the Web and database technologies, this paper presents a Web and database-supported visualization method that enables real-time information sharing of daily 4D BIM. A central database structure that contains an automatic determination and update method for each BIM object visualization is designed to facilitate the display of daily 4D BIM. The newly created method is demonstrated through the implementation of a real construction project schedule and a 3D BIM. Results illustrate that the method overcomes the information delay and data inconsistency issues associated with file-based 4D BIM to enable the sharing and visualization of daily 4D BIM in real time. The newly developed platform also facilitates timely decision making by enhancing communications and collaborations among project participants regarding daily construction operations and progress.