Why traditional MEP is not enough and how technology is taking over

This article was originally published on MEP Middle East (ITP) on 9 September 2024.

The industry is moving towards the next disruption with the use of AI and technology. Computational design and automation are essential, offering significant improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability. These technologies optimise designs and streamline processes, reducing errors and enhancing project outcomes. This article explores these advancements and their benefits, highlighting why embracing this transition is crucial for the future of the industry.

Computational Design

Computational design is a transformative approach in the MEP industry, leveraging algorithms, parametric modelling, and digital tools to optimise and innovate design processes.

This method involves the use of computer-based systems to solve complex design problems, enabling more efficient, accurate, and sustainable outcomes.

Impact on the MEP Industry

The integration of computational design in the MEP industry has revolutionised the way engineers and designers approach projects. By employing digital tools such as Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit Dynamo, and MagiCAD in Revit, professionals can streamline the design process, perform sophisticated analyses, and produce high-quality designs. These tools allow for the creation of detailed models that can be easily manipulated and analysed to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Tools and Applications

• Rhino and Grasshopper: These tools are widely used for parametric and algorithmic modelling, allowing designers to create complex geometries and explore design iterations quickly.
• Revit Dynamo: Dynamo extends the capabilities of Revit by allowing for visual programming. It helps automate repetitive tasks, optimise design workflows, and perform advanced analyses.
• MagiCAD for Revit: MagiCAD enhances Revit’s functionality, providing specialised tools for MEP design, such as automatic duct and pipe sizing, pressure drop calculations, and builders’ work coordination.

Simulation and Analysis

Through computational design, an architectural model can be converted into an energy and thermal model. Parametric modelling enables designers to conduct various simulations and analyses during the initial design stages, allowing for iterative testing and refinement.

For instance, Sun Path Analysis helps in understanding the building’s exposure to sunlight, optimising the placement of solar panels. Radiation Analysis evaluates solar radiation to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability, while Daylight Analysis assists in achieving LEED compliance by ensuring adequate natural light penetration, which also determines the correct window-to-wall ratio. Shadow Analysis focuses on the livability aspects by assessing how shadows impact the building’s environment. Additionally, Dynamic Energy Models provide early predictions of energy consumption and thermal loads, facilitating early design adjustments.

These analyses are invaluable in influencing architectural design by allowing progressive changes to be efficiently analysed and implemented, leading to more informed and sustainable decisions.

Automation in MEP using MagiCAD

MagiCAD offers a suite of automation tools that significantly enhance MEP design efficiency.

For example, MagiCAD automatically sizes ducts and pipes according to design requirements, ensuring optimal flow rates and pressure drops, while automated pressure drop calculations help maintain system efficiency and performance. Additionally, MagiCAD can automatically create necessary voids when clashes between building services and structures are identified. Electrical layouts automation streamlines the process of circuiting and converting 2D components to 3D families using Dynamo. These automated processes reduce manual errors, save time, and ensure higher accuracy in MEP designs.

Embodied Carbon

CIBSE TM65 defines the methodology for calculating embodied carbon in MEP systems. These calculations can be integrated into tools like Rhino and Grasshopper, allowing designers to assess and minimise the carbon footprint of their projects.

Ceiling Void Coordination and MEP Plant Spaces

Automation in ceiling void coordination ensures efficient space utilisation and clash detection. Similarly, automating the layout of MEP plant spaces improves the planning and installation processes.

Electrical Single Line Diagrams

The automation of electrical single line diagrams from Excel to graphical representations enhances accuracy and reduces the time required for manual drafting.

Future Integrations

Ongoing research and studies aim to further integrate various software tools to exploit their full potential. This includes developing seamless workflows that enhance collaboration, reduce redundancies, and improve overall project efficiency.

Benefits of Computational Design and Parametric Modelling

Computational design and parametric modelling offer several benefits, transforming ideas into reality with greater ease and accuracy:

• Easier Modelling with Fewer Errors: Automated processes reduce manual input, minimising errors and improving precision.
• Rapid Parameter Adjustments: Changes to any design parameter can be conducted with a few clicks, facilitating quick iterations.
• Enhanced Visualisation: Results can be achieved in better graphical forms, aiding in clearer communication and decision-making.
• Reusable Scripts: Parametric scripts can be reused across multiple projects, increasing efficiency and consistency.
• Sustainable Design: MEP systems can be designed to be more sustainable, with multiple analyses and iterations conducted through a single platform.
• Smarter Workflows: Computational design creates a more efficient workflow, enabling smarter project management and execution.

Building Renovation Assessment Using Technology

Each property and investment portfolio are unique. To understand any specific renovation options, a detailed analysis is required to select the best implementation strategy for operational optimisation, longevity, and commercial return. The use of a decision tree can help determine the best course of action for an existing asset, considering several factors and potential outcomes.

Key Aspects of Technology and Computational Design in Renovation

1. Digital Twins: Creating digital twins, which are virtual replicas of physical buildings, allows for real-time monitoring and analysis. This technology helps in assessing the current condition of the building, planning renovations accurately, and predicting the outcomes of different interventions.
2. Detailed Analysis: Using computational tools to conduct detailed analysis ensures that renovation strategies are optimised for performance, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. This includes energy modelling, thermal performance analysis, and structural integrity assessments.
3. Decision Tree for Renovation: A decision tree framework helps in evaluating various renovation strategies, considering factors such as cost, impact on operations, potential for energy savings, and return on investment. This systematic approach ensures that the selected strategy aligns with the overall goals of the property owner.

Integrating Technology for Modular Solutions

Modular solutions are increasingly popular due to their efficiency and sustainability. By using parametric modelling, different module sizes can be validated quickly, ensuring optimal integration into the building design. This approach allows for testing various iterations in a brief period, facilitating better construction sequencing and presentation to clients.

Benefits of Modular Solutions

• Efficiency: Modular construction can significantly reduce construction time and costs.
• Sustainability: Modular solutions often use less material and generate less waste.
• Flexibility: Parametric modelling allows for quick adjustments to module designs, ensuring that they meet specific project requirements.
• Integration: By integrating all services into the building design, various iterations can be evaluated quickly, ensuring that the final design is optimal.

The integration of technology into MEP design is transforming the industry in profound ways. By combining computational design and automation with professional experience and technical skill sets, a wide variety of results can be achieved, maximising output within limited timelines. Embracing these advancements not only improves designs but also sets new standards for sustainability and performance. The future of MEP design is bright, and the ability to adapt and innovate will be the key to continued success.