Evaluating the efficiency of modular design based on prefabricated elements

Introduction. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and modular construction are modern technologies that ensure the development of the construction industry. Despite certain weaknesses, both areas have strong prospects today. However, the consequences of integrating these technologies into design have not been sufficiently investigated. Therefore, it is advisable to study the total potential effectiveness of information modeling and modular construction technologies, if applied in combination. Hence, the purpose of this work is to apply information modeling tools to a particular construction facility to identify the effectiveness of design based on prefabricated modular elements. It is necessary to solve the following tasks to achieve this purpose: development of performance evaluation criteria, design of an information model based on prefabricated modular elements, comparison of two alternative facilities, drawing conclusions based on the results of the work. Materials and methods. The study is based on a comparative analysis of technical and economic indicators of two alternative facilities, or buildings of data processing centres, whose design documents were developed using modular and traditional approaches. The efficiency analysis is based on the values of design evaluation criteria to be compared. At the same time, the process of designing an information model of a facility, made of prefabricated elements, is considered. Results. As a result, the efficiency assessment of the design based on prefabricated modular elements is presented: a similar facility, whose design documentation was developed in the traditional way, is employed to conduct a comparative analysis. The author compares basic evaluation characteristics to the design developed using two different design concepts. At the same time, the author presents an information model, developed using modular design with account taken of the most recent theoretical and practical data available in this area. Conclusions. The proposed method of evaluating the design efficiency, based on prefabricated modular elements, demonstrates the obvious advantage of the modular method in terms of the facilities under consideration. At the same time, the information model of a facility is demonstrated, aspects of modular design are presented; weaknesses, further development and efficiency improvement trends are identified.