Performance of 3D Printed Models as a Means for Spatial Engineering Information Visualization

Abstract: Engineering information delivery can be a source of inefficient communication of design, leading to construction rework and lower worker morale. Due to errors, omissions, and misinterpretations, there remains a great opportunity to improve the traditional documentation of engineering information that craft professionals use to complete their work. Historically, physical three dimensional (3D) models built by hand provided 3D physical representations of the project to assist in sequencing, visualization, and planning of critical construction activities. This practice has greatly diminished since the adoption of three dimensional CAD (computer-aided design) and BIM (building information modeling) technologies. Recently, additive manufacturing technologies have allowed for three dimensional printing of 3D CAD models. By applying a cognitive based study to various information delivery formats (2D drawings, a 3D computer interface, and a 3D printed model), the effectiveness of the formats in delivering engineering information to an end-user are scientifically measured. The 3D printed model outperformed the 2D drawings and 3D computer interface in both simulated productivity and cognitive workload measures. This paper’s primary contribution to the body of knowledge is identification of how different mediums of engineering information influence the performance of construction task execution.
CE Database Subject Headings: information delivery; additive manufacturing; visualization; productivity
INTRODUCTION
While the construction industry comprises 5.4% of the overall U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2013 and Huesman et al., 2013), it lags the rest of the economy in terms of productivity measurement and improvement (Goodrum et al., 2002b). Due to changes in real output and differences in accounting procedures, there is no industry level measure of productivity (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012). The Bureau of Labor Statistics