[BIFE Eng ver.] Facade engineers' workflow

In previous chapters, we discovered what kind of works that facade engineers do. Moreover, how these works are adapted into the real workflow is also important information understanding the work of facade engineering. So in today's post, we are going to have a look at the workflow of facade engineers that personally organized while working in the facade engineering firm as a junior consultant. Note that facade engineering works are highly connected with the design stage(Concept, SD, DD, TD, and CD).

 

(1) Workflow sequence map

Workflow sequence map of facade engineers

 

(2) Concept stage

In the concept stage, facade engineers make analyses of architects' design and surrounding environments. Based on the analysis, facade engineers propose design concepts to architects.

 

(3) SD stage

In the SD stage, the facade engineers do paneling work if it is needed. At the same time, they calculate the load on the facade to ensure that the size or thickness of the designed panel can withstand the load. If the structure is weak, facade engineers adjust the size or thickness of the unit until the glass or panel can withstand the load.

 

(4) DD stage

In the DD stage, the facade engineers develop the details of the facade. While designing the details, they also calculate the structural performance of the first determined profiles.

 

(5) TD stage

In the TD stage, reflecting the architectural design changes comparing to the DD stage, facade details are once again developed accordingly. The level of details is more detailed than in the DD phase. For the calculations, not only structural calculations for advanced profiles but also supporting points where the profiles will be settled, brackets, and anchors are done. Since the facade structure is ultimately settled in the architectural structure, if not enough supporting points for the facade structure are found, facade engineers may ask the architect to design the architecture structure where necessary. Thermal calculation of whether this profile meets the U-value has to be checked and if it does not meet the code, profile detail has to be changed.

 

(6) Final production

For the final production, facade engineers offer TD-level detail design documents, structure calculation documents, and specifications.