Integrated Processes in Structural Engineering

Abstract

As the AEC industry strives to establish integrated knowledge exchange protocols utilizing building information models (BIMs), structural engineering practices of all sizes will profit from the ability to effectively communicate with the design team supported by a strongly integrated structural design process. At Thornton Tomasetti, custom tools are developed to automate the exchange of structural design data between 2D and 3D analysis models and BIMs. These tools are unique because they allow the engineer to manage partial models and data sets as independent sub-systems of complete virtual models. These sub-systems are often described in plan or elevation, while their counter parts reside in the 3D setting of the overall BIM. Custom automation of processes at Thornton Tomasetti helps to meet deadlines, exceed expectations of clients, and increases the quality of the work product. We cite three examples illustrating custom usage of application programming interfaces (APIs) and address typical challenges met when pursuing in-house development projects. The case studies include the utilization of conventional CAD documents as basic structural information models (SIMs), the automatic assembly of structural elements of complete towers in a BIM, and efficient bent management assisting the design process of stadiumlike structures. 1. BIM METHODOLOGY IN THE AEC ENVIRONMENT Following building information modeling (BIM) methodology, members of the AEC design team communicate by exchanging knowledge through a virtual model of the project, usually referred to as “BIM.” Currently, BIM compliments the traditional information flow - drawings. The industry trend moves toward using BIM as the primary tool, and if needed, drawings can be compiled as views or reports on demand. Building information modeling methodology focuses primarily on the following two objectives: a) Visualization and Coordination: Allowing the members of the AEC design team to virtually construct a digital model of the project, very similar to the WYSIWYG concept (“what you see is what you get”) in word processing. A model has to look right, be measurable, allow an assessment of constructability, and “know” when parts