VDC framework proposal for curtain wall construction process optimization

Abstract

A building is made up of structural and non-structural elements. Among these are the curtain wall systems. The curtain walls are glazed elements that can cover the building façade entirely and provide thermal and enclosure properties. Despite its use worldwide, some challenges have been identified in the construction process related to transportation, communication between the stakeholders, and the installation itself. A VDC framework is proposed to overcome these challenges, including an implementation workflow and an interrelationship map between the VDC components. This study specialized on a multiuse 12,000 m2 building under construction in Lima, Peru, resulting in an optimized proposal for curtain wall construction, compared to the traditional construction flow.