The Development of an Automated Cost Estimating System Using 3D CAD and Relational Database

The successful construction of a facility highly depends on adequate planning, design, and control of the construction process. In an effort to better monitor and control the construction project, the construction industry has been engaged extensively in the development of a new computerized design and management system applying the concept of Computer Integrated Construction (CIC). The CIC is a new trend to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the entire construction process by integrating different types of information within computer based environment. The primary objective of this paper is to propose a model for the development and implementation of an automated cost estimating system using 3D CAD and relational database under the CIC system environment. The developed system automatically generates the quantities of both elements and work items directly from 3D CAD object model, and provides the cost estimating information including project and home office overheads, and profit of the entire construction work. Conclusions are made concerning the value of the effectiveness of the automated cost estimating system developed. Finally, it is anticipated that successful implementation of the automated cost estimating system presented in this paper would be able to bring the significant improvement of productivity and quality in both design and construction phases, and increase the efficiency of construction management as well.