Building Information Modeling Software Research Articles

Desenvolvimento de plug-in BIM para verificação de conformidade de Projetos Arquitetônicos segundo as Leis Municipais – O Caso de Passo Fundo/RS

The construction industry plays a significant role in job creation and the socioeconomic development of cities. However, architects and urban planners face challenges due to the delay in the approval of architectural projects by municipal governments, attributed to the non-compliance of projects with local laws. In this context, this study proposes the use of programming in BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, with the aim of developing a plug-in to assist in the process of approving architectural projects in compliance with the municipal laws and regulations of Passo Fundo-RS. The methodology adopted was based on a thorough literature review, document analysis, and the development of a plug-in prototype for Revit, developed in Dynamo using the Python language. The proposed prototype involves the integration of urban data into Revit to automate the collection of information such as building dimensions, lot areas, setbacks, and other metrics. The results revealed that the implementation of programming routines in BIM, especially for Revit, has the potential to significantly reduce the waiting times for project approvals by the municipal government, improve their compliance with local regulations, and minimize pending issues and rework.

IFC CLASS ASSIGNMENT ADD-ON: BIM MODELLING FOR ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING PROJECTS USING BLENDER

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a working methodology for the design and management of construction projects that facilitates collaboration and communication between the different parties involved. It is based on the digital three-dimensional representation of infrastructures within the field of architecture and civil engineering. The generated models are true data containers, capable of storing the geometric and semantic information necessary to support the design, construction and maintenance operations of the assets. This methodology promotes data exchange between different software tools through interoperability and the use of standards. Usually in the development of projects throughout their life cycle, commercial, closed-source BIM software is used. This generally leads to limitations in interoperability and data reuse. This paper details advances in the use of Blender, a free and open-source software (FOSS), to support BIM workflows in construction projects. The paper addresses the automation of the process to export a 3D Blender model to a BIM model in IFC (Industry Foundation Classes). The IFC Class Assignment add-on is developed, which allows the automated assignment of IFC classes to the different elements of the 3D model in Blender to convert it into a BIM model, using scripts written in Python. The proposed extension is able to generate, in an agile and simple way, digital models in IFC4, adequately storing the geometric and semantic information of its components. The results provide a tool that contributes to automate the creation of BIM models in an open-source software such as Blender, simplifying modelling processes and supporting collaboration and standardisation in architectural and engineering projects. Keywords: BIM, IFC, Automation, Free and Open-Source Software, Blender, Python.

Investigating the Use of 3D Printing and the Integration of BIM in Manufacturing Furniture Units

Abstract 3D printing is an emerging technology and one of the main aspects that can help in its success is BIM (Building Information Modelling). Despite recent interest in this topic, research indicates that to date no framework is in place that highlights the integration of BIM with 3D printing technology in the furniture design and production industry. This research delves deep into the use of 3D printing with the aid of BIM tools to produce furniture units. Through an analytical and experimental approach, this study aims to develop a conceptual framework that integrates BIM within the 3D printing process of small-scale furniture units. To gather data, the existing literature has been reviewed thoroughly and a framework was developed and adopted in the experimental study; where a BIM software was used to simulate a piece of furniture and measure the printing process against a set of criteria such as cost, material, and energy consumption. Results of the experiment were analysed and validated by applying comparative analysis between the interview with an expert in the interior 3D printing field and the results of the simulation. The research provided key aspects to be considered in the 3D printing of interior furniture pieces in addition to outlining the relevant limitations as well as the possible opportunities for further research.

Comparative study on energy efficient green building with conventional building

Abstract Green Building concept is an environmental building practice followed by the construction engineers since the years 2000s. Green building concept is the imperative of time with respect to economic, social and environment aspects. Green building techniques can mainly classify under six categories, waste management, water efficiency, energy efficiency, location, configuration and green materials, where under each technique countless solutions can be developed based on the requirements and the proposed project. Hence, this paper targets to redesign Barka Marina Mall, Oman as a green building considering building configuration, renewable energy and green materials, with the help of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology and Photovoltaic System software as simulation tools. Aim of the present study is to redesign the Barka Marina Mall, Oman as a green building by considering the building configuration, renewable energy and green materials, with the help of BIM and Photovoltaic System software and compared the results with the conventional building. The criteria considered for the comparative analysis are, annual carbon emission, annual energy use, monthly fuel consumption and monthly energy consumption between the conventional and the green building. Based on the comparative study it is noticed that applying the green building concept has a great potential to save the nation’s resources and the environment by reducing the consumption as well as the cost.

Enhancing Open BIM Interoperability: Automated Generation of a Structural Model from an Architectural Model

Building information modelling (BIM) is an appreciated technology in the field of architecture and construction management. Collaboration of information in BIM has not been fully utilized in the structural engineering stream as many engineers keep on working with previous prevailing design approaches. Failure to adequately facilitate automation in design could lead to structural defects, construction rework, or even structural clashes, with major financial implications. Given the inherent complexity of large-scale construction projects, the ‘manual design and detailing’ of structure is a challenging task and prone to human errors. Against this backdrop, this study developed a 4D building information management approach to facilitate automated structural models for professionals designing all the elements required in reinforced concrete (RC) structures like slabs, beams, and columns. The main contribution of this study is to obtain structural models directly from architecture models automatically, which reduces effort and possible errors in the previous prevailing approaches. The framework enables execution of all the model design works automatically through coding. This is achieved by executing a script which is beneficial for integrated project delivery (IPD). The 3D structural model in BIM software presented in this study extracts and transfers the geometrical data and links these data in Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) files using integration facilitated by Python 3.6 and IFCopenshell. The developed automated programme framework offers a cost-effective and accurate methodology to address the limitations and inefficiencies of traditional methods of structural modelling, which had been carried out manually. The authors have developed a novel tool to extract structural models from architectural models without proprietary software, greatly benefiting BIM managers by enhancing 3D BIM models. This advancement toward Open BIM, crucial for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry’s future, is accessible to educators and beginners and highlights BIM’s effectiveness in improving structural analysis and productivity. The core finding of this study is to generate a structural model from an architecture model by automating the script with Python integration of IFC and IFCopenshell. The merits of the developed framework are reduced clashes, more economical structural modelling, and fully automated smart work as functions of the IPD.

Articulation of design processes, computing, Cybernetics, and BIM: A retrospective

This article explores the historical and theoretical developments of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the associated design processes. The study stems from ongoing doctoral research and aims to build an expanded understanding of the informatization process of architectural thought that led to BIM, considering contributions from the Cybernetics and Computing fields. The paper looks into the historical context of the 20th century and highlights the parallel and interdependent developments in Architecture, Cybernetics, and Computer Science. Based on a bibliographic review, retrospective, and theoretical analysis, this article emphasizes the contributions of works that systematized design processes and introduced systemic methodological approaches. Those works acknowledge the value of declaration and structuring of design information and contribute to incorporating computing into design processes and their development. The work presents the contributions of research institutions from the United Kingdom and the United States in developing computer programs for architecture, emphasizing that the geographical diversity of advancements in the field goes beyond these two lines. These computer programs were influenced by cybernetic theories, which were crucial for BIM development, and were created to produce models and systems to describe information. Finally, the importance of translating architectural thought into structured data that might be processable through computer programs, including BIM software, is highlighted, concluding that although BIM and developments of the current digital design processes followed the goal of assisting the production of North Atlantic architectural models, they originated from a broad and diverse historical and geopolitical context of the 20th century, involving theoretical, military, and professional research.

A Simplified Framework to Integrate Databases with Building Information Modeling for Building Energy Assessment in Multi-Climate Zones

BIM models are seldom used for the energy certification of buildings. This paper discusses the advantages of linking two important fields: building information modeling (BIM) and building environmental assessment methods (BEAM), presented as a rating system and a proposal for the Chilean context. The state of the art in both fields around the world is discussed, with an in-depth examination of current BIM software and related applications, followed by a discussion about previous research on integrating them. A lack of interoperability and data losses between BIM and BEM were found. A new tool is presented that addresses these challenges to ensure accurate rating system data, and this new framework is based on database exchange and takes crucial information from BIM to BEAM platforms. The development of the method includes BIM programming (API), database links, and spreadsheets for a Chilean building energy certification through a new tool, also applicable to multiclimactic zones. This new semi-automatic tool allows architects to model their design in a BIM platform and use this information as input for the energy certification process. The potential and risks of this method are discussed. Several improvements and enhancements of the energy certification process were found when incorporating this new framework in comparison to current methodologies.

Machine learning algorithms for energy efficiency: Mitigating carbon dioxide emissions and optimizing costs in a hospital infrastructure

Hospital buildings incur significant energy consumption due to their expensive operations, advanced medical equipment, strict sanitation protocols, and compliance with environmental standards in various weather conditions. For this study, focusing on two distinct climate regions in Turkey—Aksaray and Bursa provinces—a total of 1,440 unique scenarios were generated. These scenarios utilized materials from the Revit Building Information Modeling (BIM) software library, incorporating variations in thermal transmittance coefficients, solar heat gain coefficients, and building orientation angles. The research employed machine learning algorithms to predict energy consumption, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, total expenditures, and life cycle costs. While the Revit BIM software library provides numerous combinations of building materials, it’s important to note that only a limited subset undergoes practical testing during construction. The main objective is to streamline the estimation of energy consumption, CO2 emissions, overall costs, and life cycle expenditures in similar architectural settings and under comparable climate conditions, eliminating the need for drafting and energy calculation software. Across all machine learning algorithms, predictions generated by artificial neural networks closely aligned with actual values. Notably, the R-squared (R2) values, a critical evaluation metric, produced the following outcomes: both R2 values for energy were 0.95; total costs achieved 0.93 and 0.97; CO2 emissions attained 0.94 and 0.97; and life cycle costs garnered 0.95 and 0.94 for validation and test datasets, respectively. These results suggest that the successes observed in the two provinces can be extrapolated to data from all regions in Turkey. Moreover, our model is capable of predicting energy consumption, costs, and CO2 emissions based on thermal transmittance values complying with the Turkish standard TS 825 and building orientation angles.

EVALUASI QUANTITY TAKE OFF MENGGUNAKAN AUTODESK REVIT PADA PEKERJAAN STRUKTUR BAJA PROYEK PEMBANGUNAN GEDUNG KANTOR PT. TRI KANIGARA GROUP

With the development of technology, the use of BIM (Building Information Modeling) software such as Autodesk Revit is becoming increasingly common in the construction industry. Quantity Take Off (QTO) in Autodesk Revit is the process of calculating and identifying the amount of construction materials needed for a project based on a 3D model created using the Autodesk Revit software. This study aims to evaluate the use of steel structural materials and the estimated price generated through Autodesk Revit. In the QTO calculation using Autodesk Revit, the results are the volume of WF column work of 18,117.54 kg, the volume of WF beam work of 16,084.15 kg, and the volume of nut bolt work reaching 1,894 pieces. Furthermore, the estimated cost of work is also generated by Autodesk Revit, with the cost of WF column work of Rp. 389,527,110,-, the cost of WF beam work of Rp. 345,809,225,-, and the cost of nut bolt work of Rp. 52,085,000,-. This evaluation aims to identify the accuracy and efficiency of QTO calculations using Autodesk Revit.

A PMBOK-based construction cost management framework for BIM integration in construction projects

Cost overruns persist as a critical issue in construction projects. This study aims to explore how the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) can enhance project cost management processes aligned with the PMBOK framework, fostering improved construction cost control and management as well as decision-making. The study investigates the applicability of PMBoK cost management procedures within the context of BIM software and its various applications. A comprehensive BIM-cantered cost management framework is introduced to operationalize this synergy, encompassing planning, estimation, budgeting, monitoring, and control stages. This framework’s efficacy is validated through its application to an industrial facility, leveraging integrated BIM, scheduling, and cost tools. The findings revealed BIM’s benefits in visualization, clash detection, automated take-off, and 5D simulation, influencing informed decision-making during the project. However, these advantages coexist with certain limitations, including challenges in establishing bi-directional quantity-cost linkages, generating customizable reports, conducting risk-centric budgeting, and conducting in-depth subcontractor analyses. This research puts forth an applied BIM framework tailored to construction cost management and provides practical insights to guide adoption strategies and technology advancement needs. The study can assist industry practitioners and policymakers in re-evaluating cost management strategies concerning BIM capabilities.

Assessment and analysis of the effects of implementing building information modelling as a lean management tool in construction management

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to investigate and evaluate the impacts of utilising Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a lean management tool in Bangladesh's construction management field. The paper explores how adopting BIM as a lean management tool can improve and expedite a number of processes in building projects, which will ultimately increase project success, cost-effectiveness and efficiency.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive survey was conducted to investigate how BIM deployment as a lean management tool affected project outcomes. This research involved a structured survey amongst construction professionals and a case study on a real project in Bangladesh to assess the effects of using BIM as a lean management tool. The data collected from 112 respondents were analysed statistically and qualitatively to identify the effect of BIM as a lean management tool. Additionally, several software tools, including Revit, Navisworks, Design Review and BIM 360, were used to compare conventional and BIM-based methods.FindingsThe research findings demonstrate that utilising BIM practices improves the quality and safety of construction in Bangladesh. The “Improving the quality of construction” (RII = 0.732) achieved the highest rank in the questionnaire survey. In addition, the case study represents that the construction industry can benefit from BIM-based project management. The BIM implementation can shorten the design process by over 50% and save up to 1.5 weeks by minimising idling time. By applying BIM, it is possible to avoid a price rise of roughly 2.5% and a delay of about 11.9% of the original contract period.Practical implicationsThe significance of the results goes beyond the direct advantages of the project's achievements. The successful integration of BIM as a lean management tool in Bangladesh's construction sector suggests transformative potential for the industry. The enhanced coordination and decreased errors point to a future where construction projects can achieve higher levels of precision and reliability. The improved efficiency observed implies a more sustainable and cost-effective future for construction projects in the region.Originality/valueThe research provides a unique perspective on the impact of BIM implementation on project outcomes. It includes a comprehensive survey on BIM adoption as a lean management tool, gathering real-world experiences from construction professionals in Bangladesh. The case study explores the practical implications and advantages of implementing BIM in construction projects. By comparing conventional methods with BIM-based approaches and utilising BIM software, the study contributes value to the construction sector.

Numerical simulation analysis of slope stability from rainwater utilizing the Civil3D+Flac3D coupling

Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology serves as an effective means for engineering modeling and information integration, surpassing traditional two-dimensional approaches with its superior spatial analysis capabilities. While BIM has gained widespread applications in slope engineering, a gap persists in the integration between protective design and simulation analysis in terms of slope stability. This study employs literature review, theoretical analysis, software development, and numerical simulation methods to explore the application of BIM models in slope stability analysis. Through the integrated application of BIM model construction, mesh subdivision, and stability analysis, we address the deficiency in three-dimensional slope stability inherent in BIM by coupling Civil3D’s secondary development with Flac3D, a numerical simulation software. This approach not only addresses the shortcomings of numerical analysis software in constructing complex geological models but also employs a collaborative multi-software approach for comparison to validate its suitability in slope engineering. The results demonstrate that models built using BIM software are more comprehensive and possess high precision in numerical simulation, thus exhibiting significant practical value in real-world engineering applications.

Optimization testing for the modeling and characterization of three-dimensional elements to enhance interoperability from building information modeling (BIM) to building energy modeling (BEM)

The principal aim of the different authors regarding the issues concerning the interoperability between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Building Energy Modelling (BEM) platforms is focused on workflow automation. This article aims to focus on the modeling practices, by suggesting practical modeling recommendations for BIM modelers, which improve the exportation results to BEM platforms. The project followed a two-phase methodology consisting first of the proposal of a line of modeling recommendations based on a literature review, and second of the application of the recommendations, using an experimental model. At the outset, the authors recompiled research papers, software tutorials, and the main author's usage (by tool testing). The recommendations were organized by categories and fields of implementation. For the second phase, a single-family housing project was assigned for the testing procedures. The project was modeled with the two main BIM platforms available for the research (Autodesk Revit and Graphisoft Archicad). The testing procedures included the implementation of the recommendations by categories, and each category was evaluated by two premises: the geometrical consistency of the exported model with the project (by using the Aragog gbXML viewer tool), and the utility of the imported model on a BEM platform (by using Design Builder software with EnergyPlus). The results of each tested model were contrasted and analyzed, to determine if the implemented recommendations were successful for improving the exportation process. In conclusion, it was found that the recommendations improved the geometrical consistency and the elements characterization with the building systems, and an energy analytic simulation was successfully fulfilled with the optimized model imported from both BIM software. Although the recommendations made small improvements from the base to the optimized model, the result for each exported model was a successful energy analytic simulation.

Development of maintenance and care system for public railway facility infrastructure integrated with building information modeling (BIM) software based on work breakdown structure (WBS)

development of maintenance and care system for public railway facility infrastructure integrated with building information modeling (BIM) software based on work breakdown structure (WBS)

ANALYSIS OF THE BIM IMPLEMENTATION COMPETENCIES OF BUILDING CLUSTER VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THE EAST JAVA

Even though the government, through the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), introduced the concept of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in regulations as a form of collaboration and integration for application in the Indonesian construction industry in 2017, the adoption rate of BIM in Indonesia remains low. There are many obstacles that must be faced, such as the curriculum at the vocational high school level to higher education, or skill sets that have not yet been developed in their users. This study examines the abilities of Building Cluster Vocational High School Students in terms of mastered skills that are in line with BIM competency standards. The methods are a survey and the use of the Relative Importance Index on the participants of the 30th Vocational High School Competency Competition (LKS) at the East Java Provincial Level in 2022. The finding indicates that non-cognitive competencies dominate the adaptability of these students' mastery of BIM software.

Sustainability through the use of Building Information Modelling in infrastructure planning

This study examines the role of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in infrastructure planning from a sustainability perspective. It emphasises how BIM can contribute to the promotion of ecological, economic and social sustainability. Interviews with experts have shown that BIM can not only optimise the energy consumption of infrastructure projects, but also lead to precise material quantification and optimisation. Despite the benefits, the use of BIM in infrastructure planning is limited, especially in small and medium-sized projects and with local authorities. The study identifies challenges such as the complexity of BIM software systems and the additional costs of implementing them. Recommendations for action include training clients and engineering firms in the use of BIM for cost forecasting and extending the digital twin concept beyond the construction and planning process. The results show that widespread BIM application is only possible if both clients and planning offices share sustainability goals and are prepared to bear the additional costs for BIM planning. The work emphasises the need to use BIM beyond building construction for sustainable infrastructure development and provides insights into the practice of engineering firms in the infrastructure sector.

Integration of Building Information Modeling and Stormwater Runoff Modeling: Enhancing Design Tools for Nature-Based Solutions in Sustainable Landscapes

Building information modeling (BIM) has been used by the architectural and engineering disciplines to streamline the building design, construction, and management process, but there has been much more limited experience in extending the application to landscape design and implementation. This study integrated BIM software (Autodesk InfraWorks 2024.1) with a dynamic, process-oriented, conceptual hydrologic/hydraulic model (PCSWMM 2023, version 7.6.3665) to enhance the analytical tools for sustainable landscape design. We illustrate the model integration through a case study that links an existing nature-based solution (NbS) development, the PTT Metro Forest Park, Bangkok, Thailand, with theoretical new-build NbS for an adjacent property. A BIM school building was virtually situated on an empty lot beside the Metro Forest Park and seven NbS scenarios were run with design storms having 2-year, 5-year, and 100-year return intervals. The combination of a rain garden, permeable pavement, a retention pond, and a green roof was effective in sustainably managing runoff from the theoretical new-build site discharging to the Metro Forest. NbS design characteristics such as rain garden substrate depth and green roof area were optimized using the hydrologic/hydraulic model. Model results showed that even with the 100-year rainfall event, the existing Metro Forest pond storage capacity was sufficient so that flooding on the property would not occur. The consideration of connectivity between NbS features is facilitated by the modeling approach, which is important for NbS planning and assessment at a regional scale.

Analysing carbon impacts of green roof at Hilton Watford: life-cycle assessment approach

This paper investigates the environmental aspects and energy impacts of implementing a green roof system at the Hilton Watford hotel, utilising building information modelling software (Revit) for three-dimensional modelling and Insight for energy simulation. Following EN 15804:2012+A2:2019, the study employs life-cycle assessment methodology, focusing on embodied and operational carbon. Environmental Product Declarations, Inventory of Carbon and Energy database and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors guideline inform embodied carbon calculations. The results show the green roof system releases 263 839.56 kgCO2e as embodied carbon, while its sedum layer sequesters 211 468.12 kgCO2e over a 50 year lifespan. Energy efficiency analysis indicates a 3.3 kWh/(m2/year) reduction in energy consumption, leading to a 112 130.31 kgCO2e reduction in operational carbon dioxide emissions, highlighting the environmental benefits of green roof adoption. The findings suggest a 0.35% mitigation of whole life-cycle carbon dioxide emissions, with greater impact in situations of lower insulation effectiveness, showcasing the potential of green roofs in reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, the green roof incurs a minimal financial burden, constituting only 0.51% of the overall project cost.

Bridging the gap: assessing the person-organization fit between BIM education and industry expectations in Australia

PurposeA lack of suitably qualified Building Information Modelling (BIM) professionals is understood to be a major barrier towards higher uptakes of BIM in the Australian construction industry. In response, Australian universities have tried to integrate the teaching of BIM into construction-related curricula, but with limited success. The acknowledged impediment is the lingering mismatch between what universities offer and what industry actually needs. However, the exact nature of that mismatch has yet to be identified. This study addresses that knowledge gap. It assesses both the current status of BIM competencies among university graduates and explores how BIM education at Australian universities may be improved to deliver BIM work readiness, as required by the industry.Design/methodology/approachThis paper employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing 17 semi-structured interviews with experts in the Australian BIM industry. The Person-Organization (PO) fit theory, which emphasizes the congruence between individual and organizational characteristics, was utilized as a theoretical framework to examine the compatibility between “demand” and “ability” perspectives. The resulting data were analysed using this theoretical framework to gain insights into the PO fit perspectives in relation to BIM industry practices.FindingsFindings reveal that graduates are generally competent regarding the use of BIM software. However, employers require much more than software skills, and expect recruits to have the capability to implement BIM as a process according to information management standards. Specifically, graduates are significantly deficient in matters of BIM protocols, collaboration and coordination, information workflows as well as completion and handover procedures.Originality/valueThis study is the first of its kind that bridges the gap between industry expectations and university education, in the Australian context, moving beyond the common discourse in education literature, which is exclusively focused on assessing students’ perceptions about BIM.

Automated Generation and Internal Force Visualization for Box Culvert Based on Building Information Modeling

Box culverts, as a commonly employed structural form for culverts, play a critical role in traversing topographic barriers, ensuring the safety and smooth operation of transportation means such as roads and railways. However, traditional design methodologies are often time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies, failing to achieve the efficiency and precision required by modern engineering construction. To address these challenges, using the Revit 2021 and Midas Civil 2021 software platforms, we developed a Building Information Modeling (BIM) parametric modeling method for box culverts using Dynamo’s visual programming capabilities. This method enables the rapid and accurate automated generation of box culvert BIM models. Furthermore, this study proposes an effective strategy for conversion between box culvert BIM models and Midas Civil finite element models, as well as internal force visualization within a BIM project. A case study involving a box culvert underpass beneath an expressway in an urban setting was modeled parametrically and structurally validated, demonstrating that the approach not only significantly enhances modeling efficiency but also strengthens computational capabilities through bidirectional data exchange between BIM and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software. This research has effectively advanced the application and practical implementation of BIM technology in box culvert engineering.