Boston Logan Airport

Project Overview

The Logan International Airport Terminal E Modernization project for Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), led by Luis Vidal and AECOM, aims to enhance customer experience, and increase capacity for wide-bodied jets. The roofing design, developed through algorithmic design, adapted agilely to three design changes, impacting roof substructure and weatherproofing. Notably, the final change adjusted the architecture surface, introducing a variable offset between the standing seam layer (top surface) and decking sheets (lower surface). This prompted a shift from one prototype to 5 adjustable prototypes for roof substructure accessories. The algorithmic design BIM model served as a comprehensive source, extracting cut lists and facilitating error-free shop drawings, approvals, and coordination with on-site laser scanning activities. The model continued to guide installation teams through detailed drawings for each roof layer across design, fabrication, installation, and as-built phases.

SCOPE AND CHALLENGES

• Algorithmic design approach for roofing design

• 3 design changes with a big impact on engineering and the last change resulted in offsetting the standing seam layer.

• 5 adjustable accessories for variable roof thickness height.

• BIM coordination with other trades under AECOM supervision

• Detailed installation drawings for each roof layer

GENERAL FACTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

• Shop drawings developed and extracted from algorithmic design BIM model.

• Onsite laser scanning to cross-check alignment.

• Algorithmic design BIM model used as single source of truth for all phases.

• Quantities and cut list extracted from BIM model with no errors.

• Agile methodology with flexible algorithms.