Between Building Information Modeling Research Articles

Uncovering the research tapestry: bibliometric insights into BIM and LCA – exploring trends, collaborations and future directions

Uncovering the research tapestry: bibliometric insights into BIM and LCA – exploring trends, collaborations and future directions

Boosting large‐scale construction project risk management: Application of the impact of building information modeling, knowledge management, and sustainable practices for optimal productivity

AbstractThis study investigates the relationship between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and knowledge management in large‐scale construction projects, emphasizing risk management, and increasing productivity. This study aims to identify the most important and impactful aspects of modern management techniques in the large‐scale construction sector to improve construction quality; focusing on cost reduction, energy conservation, and pollution reduction during construction. Employing a validated questionnaire from experts and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), the research prioritizes key factors, elucidating the pivotal role of BIM in understanding project geometry, efficient documentation, design flexibility, and reduced project delays. Ascertained through data analysis employing the pairwise comparisons method of the AHP analysis method, the compatibility of all comparisons and matrices arising from the decision‐making process of experts was below 0.1. The results establish BIM's technical capabilities, economic considerations, and pollution reduction as paramount, contributing significantly to improve large‐scale construction project risk management. The prioritization of the main criteria reveals their significance in the following order: BIM technical capabilities (0.281), BIM economic capabilities (0.231), pollution reduction (0.228), knowledge management capabilities (0.096), BIM time capabilities (0.090), and human resources management capabilities (0.074). BIM can improve risk management for large‐scale construction projects by: using the BIM model to understand the geometry and features of large‐scale construction projects; digitizing and organizing contract documents, project data, plans, work instructions, roles and responsibilities, cost, time, and energy analysis, and other project‐related documents for efficient project management; decreased duplication and project delays; reducing the need for on‐site personnel during implementation and CO2 emissions reduction. According to the results of the BIM model utilization to better understand the geometry and characteristics of large‐scale construction projects, the item was identified as the most significant and influential among the main components.

Classification of architectural and MEP BIM objects for building performance evaluation

Numerous factors in current workflows reduce the completeness, accuracy, and reliability of the information exchanged between Building Information Modelling (BIM) authoring tools and building performance simulation and analysis software. Automated classification of BIM objects could ameliorate most of the interoperability problems. However, architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), and other building objects have a wide range of shapes, features, and properties, which makes identifying them reliably and accurately with any single AI tool difficult. This study explored methods and techniques for automated classification of architectural and MEP BIM objects that can significantly reduce or eliminate the manual effort required to correct data exchange and interoperability issues in pre-processing building models for performance evaluation. A series of ensemble models using a stacking mechanism of four classification tools (semantic keyword search, rule-based inferencing, machine learning using object geometry features, and deep learning using visual shape features) were implemented and tested. A BIM object dataset with 3,410 instances belonging to 40 classes was compiled for training and testing the models. The dataset contains diverse architecture and MEP objects with high-quality selected instances and is available for public use. We found that an ensemble learning approach that exploits the various types of information available in instance models may exhibit superior object classification performance than any individual tool. The ensemble model applying all four tools achieved 91.0 % accuracy (F1 score 0.88), suggesting that automated classification using ensemble learning is an effective strategy.

Building and sustainability information modeling: An analysis of its thematic structure

Objective. This study examines bibliographic production that addresses the intersection between building information modeling (BIM) and sustainability, considering business, academic, and scientific perspectives. The main objective is to analyze the relationship between BIM and sustainability to contextualize their development in these fields.
 Design/Methodology/Approach. A search was conducted in the Scopus database using the keywords "building information modeling" and "sustainability". The VOSviewer bibliometric tool was selected for thematic analysis, combining co-word analysis and the h-index. This methodology enabled the effective visualization of diagrams and thematic areas in all available publications.
 Results/Discussion. Four thematic groups were identified: new technologies and their applications, sustainable construction, sustainability and energy efficiency, and life cycle and environment management. A trend towards greater integration and synergy between BIM and sustainability was evident. The five main research lines around these topics were presented and discussed, which were: development of sustainability assessment methodologies based on BIM, optimization of the life cycle of buildings through BIM, innovation in sustainable materials and technologies, modeling of the resilience and adaptability of buildings, and standards and regulations for sustainability in BIM.
 Conclusions. The future is oriented towards BIM and sustainability due to their capacity to optimize construction efficiency, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices.

An ICT-based Framework for Innovative Integration between BIM and Lean Practices Obtaining Smart Sustainable Cities

Smart sustainable cities rely on the latest technologies and apply recent knowledge like Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), BIM, and lean construction to expand people's eminence of life, smooth urban maneuvers and facilities more competent, and develop their competitiveness while confirming that they achieve the economic, social, environmental, and cultural demands of current and forthcoming generations. This paper explores the synergies between Building Information Modelling (BIM) visualisation and Lean construction practices to enhance Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry performance. A structured questionnaire was distributed among BIM and lean experts and analysed by SPSS. The study uses descriptive and correlation analyses to assess ten key lean practices, revealing high industry adoption and favorable mean scores. Notably, BIM-enhanced clash detection and coordination lead with a score of 4.4 out of 5. Correlation analysis establishes significant positive associations between BIM visualisation and practices such as just-in-time production, value stream mapping, lean pull systems, work sequencing, standardised work, and continuous improvement. The findings accentuate the pivotal role of BIM in optimising lean practices, offering valuable insights for practitioners seeking to elevate AEC industry performance through strategic integration. Future studies endeavors are recommended to investigate several alternative avenues to enhance the integration between BIM and Lean practices in the AEC industry. Furthermore, the forthcoming researchers are advised to validate the proposed framework.

Critical Factors for Effective BIM-Enabled Education: An Adaptive Structuration Theory Perspective

Educational systems of the 21st century require agility and flexibility for construction graduates to have the skills, knowledge, and abilities required for effective performance in the construction industry, especially with the global digitalization of the industry. With reference to adaptive structuration theory (AST) as a theoretical lens and a survey research design, this research examined the relationship between building information modeling (BIM) as an advanced information technology and educators’ attitudes toward implementing BIM for construction education to prepare local graduates for global relevance and employment. Data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS Ver 25). The findings of the study showed that group internal system, structure of BIM, and task and organizational environment play important roles in implementing BIM for construction education in the architecture, engineering, construction, and facilities management (AEC/FM) disciplines. It was recommended that policymakers, academics, and curriculum developers pay attention to these factors for rapid development in the realm of BIM education. The development of a robust BIM education framework that considers these factors should also be studied.

Digital Twin for Acoustics and Stage Craft Facility Management in a Multipurpose Hall

Digital twins aim to virtually replicate the static and dynamic building characteristics through real-time connectivity between virtual and physical counterparts. Despite its potential, research into digital twins for facility management (FM) in multipurpose spaces is at an early stage, especially to control and optimize the various uses and configuration layouts. One of the major barriers to the adoption of digital twin technology in multipurpose buildings is the lack of interoperability, primarily between building information modeling (BIM) and Internet of things (IoT) data sources. This paper presents a possible digital-twin architecture to enable digital-twin applications aiming to impact building performance, acting on the facility management of stagecraft and variable acoustic architectural elements to control the reverberation time in real time. The case study of Roberto De Silva Multipurpose Hall is presented, in which the indoor acoustic quality is controlled by the digital twin that returns the reverberation time output as a function of stage equipment layouts, variable acoustic elements and hall occupancy.

Interoperability Between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Structural Engineering

The aim is to understand how structural engineers might benefited from the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM). Aside from that, the ease with which the structure can be redesigned and modified within a single model is also explored.The analysis of the interoperability issues related to the process of transferring models between pieces of software was the primary emphasis of this investigation’s findings. The study shows that there is still a sizable amount of supplemental work that must be done, particularly about the reinforcing detailing

Demonstrating efficiency through data connectivity between asset management systems and IM

The CoDEC (Connected Data for Effective Collaboration) project has developed standardised tools – an Asset Data Dictionary and associated Ontology – to support data integration between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Asset Management Systems (AMS). CoDEC has also developed an OpenAPI (Application Protocol Interface) to enable automatic data connection between the two systems. Having developed the standardised process, the potential benefits offered for connecting and linking data have been shown in three pilot projects to demonstrate (1) how tunnel monitoring data can enrich BIM models of tunnels (2) how data from bridge sensors can be linked and visualised and (3) how highway data from a BIM model can be linked to GIS-based AMS for the operational phase. This paper describes the project outcomes.

The Application of Graph in BIM/GIS Integration

Information exchange between building information modelling (BIM) and geographic information system (GIS) is problematic, especially in terms of semantic information. Graph-based technologies, such as the resource description framework (RDF) and the labelled property graph (LPG), are promising in solving this problem. These two technologies are different but have not been systematically investigated in the context of BIM/GIS integration. This paper presents our systematic investigation into these two technologies, trying to propose the proper one for BIM/GIS data integration. The main findings are as follows. (1) Both LPG-based databases and RDF-based databases can be generally considered graph databases, but an LPG-based database is considered a native graph database, while an RDF-based database is not. (2) RDF suits applications focusing more on linking data and sharing data, and (3) LPG-based graph database suits applications focusing more on data query and analysis. An LPG-based graph database is thus proposed for BIM/GIS data integration. This review can facilitate the use of graph technology in BIM/GIS integration.

A quantitative, evidence-based analysis of correlations between lean construction and building information modelling

PurposeThis research aims to identify and measure the correlations between building information modelling (BIM) and lean construction (LC) principles at the design and construction phases.Design/methodology/approachThe study investigates BIM-LC principles correlations using the Istanbul Grant Airport (IGA) as a case study. The Delphi technique, performed quantitatively, contributes to the identification and quantification of a set of correlations between 11 selected BIM uses and 13 LC principles, which are supported with practical examples from the case study.FindingsTogether, the two research methods provide an evidence-based approach to understand the correlations between BIM and LC. The correlation analysis results in 46 correlations, and the correlations between the LC principles and BIM uses are intensified with the LC principles.Practical implicationsA quantitative understanding BIM use and LC principles correlations and appreciation of their specific uses can guide the practical implementation of BIM and LC, especially in large and mega projects.Originality/valueBIM and LC practices represent approaches to improve performance in construction projects. While BIM has both information technology (IT) and process perspectives, the LC approach is mainly a process and product-oriented philosophy for project efficiency, effectiveness and the elimination of non-value-adding activities and waste. Many studies have investigated how the two approaches complement each other and concluded that their combined implementation in projects can improve efficiency and effectiveness. However, to date an analytical and granular investigation identifying and measuring correlations between BIM and LC based on empirical data is lacking. This paper fills that gap with an evidence-based analysis of the tightness of coupling and correlations between BIM uses and LC principles.

SpaRSE-BIM: Classification of IFC-based geometry via sparse convolutional neural networks

Information exchange between Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools is challenging, since many applications use their own native data formats. The Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) schema, an open data exchange format for BIM, does not capture the full semantic meaning needed for direct use by different BIM tools and can be prone to information loss due to reduction, simplification, translation and interpretation of the data. Current practice often treats the imported model as a reference and requires a user to remodel the building using the respective application’s native elements. Many BIM object properties are defined by its classification. Inconsistencies in the mapping between native BIM elements and IFC, e.g. due to unsupported export functionality or manual error, can lead to problems when using the model in a downstream application. Recent works demonstrate that neural networks offer a promising possibility to alleviate this issue via classification of the objects contained in a BIM model and suggesting those corrections to the user. However, the computational overhead of these deep learning models, either due to necessary pre-processing of the data or runtime performance of the model, makes it difficult for them to be used in plug-ins or middleware for BIM tools. This work proposes SpaRSE-BIM, a neural network model based on sparse convolutions for the classification of IFC-based geometry and semantic enrichment of BIM models. Experiments are performed on two IFC entity classification benchmark datasets. The results demonstrate that SpaRSE-BIM is significantly more efficient at inference time compared to previous approaches, while maintaining state-of-the-art accuracy. Further experiments explore the applicability of IFC entity classification datasets to the domain of Scan-to-BIM. It can be shown that the feature space of SpaRSE-BIM learns to discern objects in a semantically meaningful way, even in cases where fine-grained subtype information for IFC objects is not available during training.

THE IFC FILE FORMAT AS A MEANS OF INTEGRATING BIM AND GIS: THE CASE OF THE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF UNDERGROUND NETWORKS

Abstract. The construction sector is undergoing an important digital revolution. The integration between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Geographical Information System (GIS) is a key component of this revolution and is increasingly discussed. Although benefits are already recognised, several challenges still remain. The purpose of this paper is to present the method proposed by the GEOBIMM project to overcome the existing barriers towards the integration between BIM and GIS domains and to present the first results applied to the maintenance of underground networks. The results are a set of guidelines essential for the integration of BIM files in GIS platforms within the GEOBIMM domain, to ensure: the appropriate geometric description of the elements; the correct georeferencing; the geospatial semantic and topological interoperability between the two systems; the appropriate definition of the information parameters. These pillars are further used to develop a guideline for planners and construction companies supporting them in developing compliant BIM models.

Implimentasi Geometri BIM-GIS Terhadap Navigasi Pengguna bagi Persekitaran Dalaman: Satu Kajian

The integration between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Geographic Information System (GIS) is frequently discussed from time to time due to the benefits offered, especially for user navigation in the building’s indoor environment. Inequality in terms of 3D geometry and level of detail was identified as contributing to the difficulty in integrating the two models. Although there are limitations, various studies have been conducted to improve the method of integration so that the data can be utilised successfully. Therefore, this paper focuses on reviewing relevant research papers to (1) identify the basic information and structure of BIM and GIS models, (2) study the relationship and integration that occurs between the two types of models at the model geometry level, and (3) identify the application of the user navigation to the indoor building environment and highlight the future direction for the integration of BIM and GIS study. From this study, it can be identified that the standardised geometry schemes are the keys to the success of BIM and GIS integration. It can indirectly enhance the interoperability of data and helps in the development of a holistic data model for a broader scope of application. Particularly in the era of rapid development of machine learning, deep learning and internet of things (IoT) technology, where the application of integrated products through semantic web methods is seen to have an expansive room to grow significantly for location-based services (LBS) and emergency application.

A Semantics-Based Approach for Simplifying IFC Building Models to Facilitate the Use of BIM Models in GIS

Using solid building models, instead of the surface models in City Geography Markup Language (CityGML), can facilitate data integration between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Geographic Information System (GIS). The use of solid models, however, introduces a problem of model simplification on the GIS side. The aim of this study is to solve this problem by developing a framework for generating simplified solid building models from BIM. In this framework, a set of Level of Details (LoDs) were first defined to suit solid building models—referred to as s-LoD, ranging from s-LoD1 to s-LoD4—and three unique problems in implementing s-LoDs were identified and solved by using a semantics-based approach, including identifying external objects for s-LoD2 and s-LoD3, distinguishing various slabs, and generating valid external walls for s-LoD2 and s-LoD3. The feasibility of the framework was validated by using BIM models, and the result shows that using semantics from BIM can make it easier to convert and simplify building models, which in turn makes BIM information more practical in GIS.

Modelling the relationship between Building Information Modelling (BIM) implementation barriers, usage and awareness on building project lifecycle

The concept of a successful building project should be implemented across the project's lifecycle phases to obtain maximum profits without compromising the standard. Although BIM implementation in developing countries is limited, much research has focused on BIM drivers. However, there is less evidence to thoroughly investigate the influence of BIM barriers and awareness on the project lifecycle. This study addresses barriers to BIM implementation in building projects in developing countries. It investigates the influence of BIM barriers on awareness of BIM during the project lifecycle. Thus, a comprehensive literature review is required to build a conceptual model. Subsequently, the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was developed using a questionnaire survey tool. Data were collected from 90 building experts in Nigeria. The model's outputs highlighted that cost and standards, process and economic, technology and business, and training and people are the most critical barriers to BIM implementation that should be avoided. Furthermore, the model prediction revealed that eliminating BIM barriers has a minor impact on sufficient knowledge throughout the building project lifecycle. The findings provide the basis for policy making in developing countries concerning the successful completion of projects by avoiding BIM barriers; it will likewise enhance the success of building projects through BIM.

Knowledge sharing in the construction supply chain: collaborative innovation activities and BIM application on innovation performance

PurposeThis paper aimed to examine the role of knowledge sharing among member enterprises between collaborative innovation activities and innovation performance and between building information modeling (BIM) application and innovation performance in the construction supply chain.Design/methodology/approachThe structural equation model was used in this study. First, the hypothesis of the relationship between collaborative innovation activities, BIM application, knowledge sharing and innovation performance in the construction supply chain was proposed based on experience; then, the research data were collected by investigation; finally, this hypothesis was tested through data analysis.Findings(1) Collaborative innovation activities in the construction supply chain had a positive impact on explicit knowledge sharing, tacit knowledge sharing and innovation performance. (2) BIM application had a positive impact on explicit knowledge sharing and innovation performance, while it had no significant impact on tacit knowledge sharing. (3) Explicit knowledge sharing had no positive effect on innovation performance, while tacit knowledge sharing had positive effect on organizational performance. (4) Tacit knowledge sharing produced partial mediating effect between collaborative innovation activities, BIM application and innovation performance, while explicit knowledge sharing produced complete mediating effect between BIM application and tacit knowledge sharing.Originality/valueA relationship model among collaborative innovation activities, BIM application, explicit and tacit knowledge sharing and innovation performance in the construction supply chain was proposed, and the rationality of the model was verified by empirical analysis. Discovering the relationships between these factors can be not only conducive to mastering the effect of explicit and tacit knowledge sharing in the collaborative innovation process of construction supply chain, but also play a guiding role for the function development of BIM.

BIM research vs BIM practice: a bibliometric-qualitative analysis from China

PurposeUnderstanding the frontier difference between building information modeling (BIM) research and practice is a top priority to guarantee the engineering significance and feasibility of academic achievements, yet such research gap has not been well-explored. The purpose of this paper is to provide an objective and accurate analysis of BIM knowledge using 551 published BIM-related papers and 68 documents of frontier BIM projects in China.Design/methodology/approachThis paper adopts the mixed method, combining the bibliometrics method with the qualitative method. Bibliometrics was used to analyze 551 BIM-related literatures from China with Citespace 5.0. Qualitative research was used to analyze 68 project documents from China with Nvivo. Finally, the analysis results are compared to obtain the final conclusion.FindingsThe analysis results of the collected BIM-related papers, given by bibliometrics analysis, show that the subject categories of engineering, civil engineering, and construction and building technology, and 8 key research clusters are extremely important for development of BIM knowledge. The analysis results of the collected project documents, given by qualitative analysis, indicate that visualization, aided management, intelligent construction, simulation and analysis are the hot applications of BIM practice.Originality/valueThrough comparison, certain research gaps between the research and practice community in China was identified, which are useful for identification of research trends and practice frontier in BIM community. This study offers useful and new insights to summarize the status quo of BIM and can be used as a reference to integrate future BIM developments.

Interoperability between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Building Energy Model (BEM)

Building information modelling (BIM) is the first step towards the implementation of the industrial revolution 4.0, in which virtual reality and digital twins are key elements. At present, buildings are responsible for 40% of the energy consumption in Europe and, so, there is a growing interest in reducing their energy use. In this context, proper interoperability between BIM and building energy model (BEM) is paramount for integrating the digital world into the construction sector and, therefore, increasing competitiveness by saving costs. This paper evaluates whether there is an automated or semi-automated BIM to BEM workflow that could improve the building design process. For this purpose, a residential building and a warehouse are constructed using the same BIM authoring tool (Revit), where two open schemas were used: green building extensible markup language (gbXML) and industry foundation classes (IFC). These transfer files were imported into software compatible with the EnergyPlus engine—Design Builder, Open Studio, and CYPETHERM HE—in which simulations were performed. Our results showed that the energy models were built up to 7.50% smaller than in the BIM and with missing elements in their thermal envelope. Nevertheless, the materials were properly transferred to gbXML and IFC formats. Moreover, the simulation results revealed a huge difference in values between the models generated by the open schemas, in the range of 6 to 900 times. Overall, we conclude that there exists a semi-automated workflow from BIM to BEM which does not work well for big and complex buildings, as they present major problems when creating the energy model. Furthermore, most of the issues encountered in BEM were errors in the transfer of BIM data to gbXML and IFC files. Therefore, we emphasise the need to improve compatibility between BIM and model exchange formats by their developers, in order to promote BIM–BEM interoperability.

Analysis framework for the interactions between building information modelling (BIM) and lean construction on construction mega-projects

PurposeThe construction industry encounters substantial challenges in its evolution towards sustainable development and to the adoption of building information modelling (BIM) technology and lean construction (LC) practices on construction mega-projects. This study aims to present critical challenges and to investigate the interactions of BIM and LC on construction mega-projects encountered by key stakeholders in their efforts to integrate BIM and LC.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research approach is adopted to introduce and validate LC principles and BIM functionalities resulting from a detailed analysis of extant literature, followed by a conceptual analysis of the interactions between BIM and LC on construction mega-projects. A quantitative questionnaire survey is then used. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests are used for data analysis, and analysis of variance tests elaborate and validate results.FindingsThe research yielded ten BIM functionalities and ten LC principles, which are categorised in four principle areas and four BIM functionality groups. A research framework for analysis of the interaction between BIM and LC is then compiled.Originality/valueResearch findings and the proposed framework will enhance the adoption of BIM and LC practices on construction mega-projects and allow project key stakeholders to place emphasis on tackling crucial challenges and barriers identified in this research. The framework will guide and stimulate research; and as such, the approach adopted up to this point is constructive. The identified interactions between BIM and LC on construction mega-projects show positive synergies between the two.