Building Information Modeling Software Research Articles

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.

Development of a BIM Platform for the Design of Single-Story Steel Structure Factories

Traditional design methods for single-story steel structure factories are characterized by low levels of digitalization and high error rates. To deal with these problems, a building information modeling (BIM) platform for the design of single-story steel structure factories was developed in this paper, which aimed to improve the design process for such structures. Firstly, the components of the factory were categorized, and the Revit API was employed to automate the generation of the BIM model. Load applications and combinations were then established using the Revit API, which relied on a set of predefined parameters. Secondly, this paper proposed the creation of a dedicated database for data exchange between BIM software and finite element analysis software. Additionally, the SAP2000 Open Application Programming Interface (OAPI) was employed for the automated construction and analysis of the SAP2000 structural model. Finally, the innovative use of Dynamo–Revit API hybrid programming allowed for the visualization of internal forces directly within the Revit environment, significantly diminishing the dependency on standalone FEA software. The application results obtained on a project demonstrated that the developed platform markedly improves the efficiency of design single-story steel structure factories and ensures the accuracy of the structural analysis. This confirms that the developed platform can transform the traditional design process by integrating advanced digital tools, thereby providing a novel approach to the design of single-story steel structure factories.

Optimising building envelope and insulation materials for energy efficiency and life-cycle cost in Cypriot residences

ABSTRACT Residential buildings consume approximately 36% of total electricity consumption in Cyprus and this is expected to continue increasing in the coming years. This study explores the potential for energy savings in residential buildings in Cyprus through optimising building envelopes and insulation materials. Using building information modelling and energy modelling software, the study analyses 120 combinations of building envelopes and eight insulation materials, identifying an optimal combination of wall, roof, and flooring materials that could result in 32% energy load reductions and 27% lower life-cycle costs compared to the median scenario. High-density rock wool insulation on roofs and double-glazed windows were also found to offer both monetary and energy performance benefits. A sensitivity analysis revealed that the current high energy prices could provide greater economic incentives to adopt these optimisation strategies. Optimising building materials in Cyprus could play a critical role in climate strategy while also offering significant economic benefits.

Eco-Innovative Construction: Integrating Green Roofs Design within the BIM Framework

This research delves into the integration of green roofs elements and parameters with Building Information Modeling (BIM), a pivotal advancement in sustainable urban construction. Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11, this study explores how this integration can address global challenges like climate change and resource depletion. Using the Dynamo Visual Programming Language within Autodesk Revit, this research develops a computational modeling approach for green roofs, focusing on their thermal and structural characteristics under varied environmental conditions. Key findings demonstrate the significant influence of substrate and drainage material combinations on green roofs’ thermal performance, highlighting the need for tailored designs based on climatic conditions. This study also emphasizes the importance of considering structural performance in both dry and saturated conditions for overall building integrity. This research identifies gaps in current practices, such as limited focus on specific green roof materials and reliance on certain software tools, suggesting the need for broader material selection and software adaptability. Future research directions include expanding material selections, exploring diverse environmental conditions, and integrating green roofs elements and parameters with various BIM software platforms. This study’s implications extend to stakeholders in the construction industry, offering a framework for architects, urban planners, and policymakers to design and implement green roofs aligned with environmental goals. This work contributes to the field by proposing a novel approach to sustainable construction, integrating ecological design with digital technology, and setting a new benchmark in the integration of green roofs design with BIM. By addressing these aspects, this research paves the way for future developments in sustainable urban construction, enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of urban communities in line with global sustainability objectives.

A BIM-enabled digital twin framework for real-time indoor environment monitoring and visualization by integrating autonomous robotics, LiDAR-based 3D mobile mapping, IoT sensing, and indoor positioning technologies

Existing indoor environment monitoring methods often fall short due to the lack of using standardized evaluation methods, missing spatial information, or the absence of user-friendly visualization interfaces. To address these limitations, this paper proposes a novel digital twin framework for real-time indoor environment monitoring and visualization by integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things, autonomous robot-based mobile mapping and sensing, and indoor positioning technologies. The goal is to autonomously monitor indoor environmental conditions and provide real-time visualization using a standardized assessment index with estimated spatial information in BIM software. The proposed framework was demonstrated and validated in two indoor scenarios for air quality monitoring and visualization-related applications. Implementation results revealed that: the framework effectively captured spatial characteristics of air quality in small and medium-sized indoor spaces and intuitively visualized it using a BIM digital twin model; and, the ultra-wideband-based indoor positioning system achieved a nearly centimeter-level positioning precision. Practical interpretations of the results demonstrated that the proposed framework can not only detect and localize the potential sources of air pollutants but can also identify the possible causes of low indoor air quality. This study ultimately contributes to the body of knowledge by offering a novel and generic digital twin framework that seamlessly bridges various popular yet previously isolated technologies for better informing building facility management-related decisions. This paper is the first research work that integrates several emerging technologies (i.e., BIM, digital twins, IoT sensing, indoor localization/positioning/tracking, and robotics) for advancing real-time monitoring and visualization of indoor environmental conditions. While the proposed framework was applied for indoor air quality monitoring, it could be extended and used for various indoor environmental assessment and visualization-related applications.

Determinant Factors of Successful Building Information Modeling (BIM) Implementation in Construction Project

Statement of the problem. The construction sector is essential to the macro economy and affects almost all aspects of a country's economy. However, construction is one of the most dynamic, risky, and challenging sectors. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is one of the methods that could speed up the working process on construction projects while saving resources. This study is aimed at examining the effects of tender documents, human resources, and BIM software on successful BIM implementation. Results. The initial research was performed as a pilot survey of 7 experts, including BIM specialists and construction company managers in order to validate the research variables and indicators. All of the study's variables passed the reliability test. The questionnaire was distributed to 62 experts in BIM and the construction industry. The tender document, human resources, and BIM software had a positive effect on the cost performance. R-square value for cost performance variable has an R-square value of 0.641%. This result reveals that tender documents, human resources, and BIM software influence cost performances by 64.1%, while the other factors account for the remaining 35.9%. Conclusions. The findings of this study reveal that tender documents, human resources, and BIM software influence the efficiency of BIM implementation, particularly in terms of project cost performance.

Recent Technological Advancements in BIM and LCA Integration for Sustainable Construction: A Review

In the high-energy, high-carbon landscape of the construction industry, a detailed and precise life cycle assessment (LCA) is essential. This review examines the role of building information modeling (BIM) software in streamlining the LCA process to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Despite its potential, challenges such as software interoperability and compatibility persist, with no unified standard for choosing BIM-integrated LCA software. Besides, the review explores the capabilities and limitations of various BIM software, LCA tools, and energy consumption tools, and presents characteristics of BIM-LCA integration cases. It critically discusses BIM-LCA integration methods and data exchange techniques, including bill of quantities import, Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) import, BIM viewer usage, direct LCA calculations with BIM plugins, and LCA plugin calculations. Finally, concluding with future perspectives, the study aims to guide the development of advanced LCA tools for better integration with BIM software, addressing a vital need in sustainable construction practices.

TunGPR: Enhancing data-driven maintenance for tunnel linings through synthetic datasets, deep learning and BIM

Non-destructive Testing (NDT) techniques and data-driven technologies are increasingly applied in underground infrastructure maintenance, which can facilitate predictive monitoring for informed decision-making. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is extensively utilised in rapid condition assessment of tunnel linings, particularly for detecting defects that lead to unforeseen changes of dielectric properties of materials. In this paper, a prototyped framework is proposed, namely TunGPR, for GPR-based tunnel lining assessment by incorporating Building Information Modelling (BIM), synthetic database and deep learning-enabled interpretation. The first module integrates laser-scanned point clouds and GPR Scan-to-BIM of tunnel lining with geological model. Subsequently, interoperability is achieved between the geo-integrated BIM and GPR simulation software. From the dielectric model retrieved from the BIM model, a database is established, considering a variety of condition combinations (i.e., voids, cavities, delamination, and water intrusion) leveraging domain randomisation and Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) modelling, as well as monitored field data. The dataset is then fed into the diagnostic module underpinned by a dual-rotational Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) that is customised to enhance accuracy and automation of hyperbola detection. Lastly, a preliminary risk assessment matrix is implemented into the BIM model for data management and action prioritisation. These efforts serve as an initial step to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the GPR-enabled data-driven maintenance for tunnel linings in a BIM-centred framework.

Model 5D Gedung Dekanat dan Perkuliahan Fakultas Kesehatan Masyarakat, Universitas Diponegoro

Model 5D Gedung Dekanat dan Perkuliahan Fakultas Kesehatan Masyarakat, Universitas Diponegoro

Challenges of BIM Software Implementation in Quantity Surveying Consultancy Firms: The Difference Between Large Firms and Small-and-Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Inefficiencies and ineffectiveness in delivering construction projects had negatively impacted the industry for decades. However, the emergence of building information modeling (BIM) technology had influenced the construction process with its many benefits toward project success. BIM benefits included reduced project time and cost, improved team collaboration and communication, and improved project quality and performance. Consequently, BIM applications were claimed to provide more reliable working practices for quantity surveyors (QS), especially in establishing their cost estimates. Despite the well-known benefits that spurred BIM employment around the world, the usage of BIM software in Malaysia was still in its infancy, requiring greater deployment by the QS. Furthermore, the literature was scarce in comparing the use of BIM software by large organizations and Small-and-Medium Enterprises (SMEs). As a result, the primary goal of this study was to identify the numerous challenges associated with the adoption of BIM software in both large and SME quantity surveying consultancy firms. Apart from that, this paper identified the availability of BIM software in the construction sector as well as the use of BIM software in those consultancy businesses. A quantitative technique was used, with 393 questionnaire survey forms issued to Malaysian QUANTITY SURVEYING consultant businesses. The data was then analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate a reliable and valid result. According to the findings, Cubicost software was the most popular software used by QS specialists. Notably, the results revealed that SMEs face greater challenges than large organizations, particularly those connected to professional help, finance, and time, as well as technical issues. Because large corporations and SMEs differed in nature, this study could provide new insights to policymakers in aiding companies of various sizes in their BIM transformation process. The findings called for more policymakers to work together to improve practitioners' understanding of BIM-based technology. The difficulties of SMEs must be recognized, and policymakers must bridge the gap between large and SMEs to bring Malaysia's construction industry one step closer to a new era of digitalization.

Numerical Simulation and Analysis of Hydraulic Turbines Based on BIM for Sustainable Development

Hydropower is considered to be an important way to achieve the sustainable development goal of human progress. The performance of turbines is very important to the safety and stability of hydropower stations. Most of the hydraulic turbine performance studies only use Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for performance simulation, lacking the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and CFD. Therefore, a performance analysis model of a Francis turbine based on BIM was put forward in this paper. The BIM software OpenBuildings Designer CONNECT Edition Update 10 was used to build the hydraulic turbine model, and then the BIM model was transferred to the CFD numerical simulation platform ANSYS through the intermediate format conversion. In the ANSYS environment, the numerical simulation of different working conditions was carried out with the help of Fluent 2021 R1 software. The numerical simulation results show that the fluid velocity gradient in the volute was 2~3 m/s under the three working conditions, which was relatively stable. The water flow could progress the guide vane mechanism at a higher speed, and the drainage effect of the volute was better. There were some negative pressure areas at the back of the runner blades and the inlet of draft tube, and the negative pressure value was as high as −420,000 Pa and −436,842 Pa under maximum head conditions, which were prone to cavitation erosion. It is proven that BIM supported the hydraulic turbine performance analysis and provided a geometric information model for hydraulic turbine CFD numerical simulation, meaning that the performance analysis model based on BIM is feasible. This study can expand the application value of BIM and provide guidance for the study of hydraulic turbine numerical simulation using BIM technology in combination with CFD methods.

Pelatihan Building Information Modeling kepada Praktisi Konstruksi di Kalimantan Selatan

Due to the rapid developments in the current digitalization era, information technology has affected almost every aspect of life. In the construction world, the influence of developments in information technology has led to the emergence of a building database concept called Building Information Modeling (BIM). The Ministry of Public Works and Housing has issued Ministerial Regulation Number 22/PRT/M/2018 and strengthened by PP Number 16 of 2021 regarding the implementation of BIM. Thus, the application of BIM in building projects, especially those owned by the government, has become necessary. Therefore, it is important to carry out BIM training to prepare human resources (HR) who can use BIM-based building design software. The BIM training was held in collaboration with the Human Settlements section of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency (PUPR Agency) of South Kalimantan Province. The participants were not only workers of the PUPR Agency but also construction practitioners in the South Kalimantan Province. From the pre-test results, it can be seen that the participants still lack understanding and mastery of BIM software. Meanwhile, after the BIM training was held, there was a significant increase in the participants' mastery and understanding based on the post-test results.

Benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Using IBM SPSS Statistics

Building Information Modelling software is commonly used in the architecture and construction industries for computer-aided design (CAD) and construction information modelling. These products include many tools and libraries that are especially aimed at architecture design, construction, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) modeling BIM software offers a process centered around models to create designs for buildings and infrastructure, and creates a digital representation of a facility's operational characteristics beyond construction drawings. Other products in this category can be used for various CAD purposes, but their main focus is on architectural design. To be included in the BIM category, a product must provide tools for 2D or 3D computer-aided design aimed at architectural design and construction. It should also include collaboration tools that allow multiple group members to work together. Additionally, it should provide performance data and analytical engines to improve building efficiency. For more information on CAD products, see our public objective CAD software type. For information on product and mechanical design software, see our product and machinery category. And for civil engineering design products, see our civil engineering design software category. In building design and BIM products, the top four influencing factors that favor user satisfaction are "sequence steps," "dynamic updating," "editing," and "preparation in doing business." These are predictable satisfaction attributes that are determined by the algorithm for users within this category. It creates detailed digital representations that integrate regulatory data and enables real-time collaboration on an open cloud platform.IBM SPSS Statistics is a software tool created by IBM that serves various purposes such as data management, advanced analytics, multivariate analytics, business intelligence, and criminal investigation. The software originated from the acquisition of SPA Inc. in 2009 and is currently known as IBM SPSS Statistics in its latest versions. In the context of the mentioned software, the Cronbach's alpha reliability result for the following applications: autocad, revit, sketchup, navisworks, archicad, aurora solar, autocad arch, and tekla structures, is recorded as 0.622. This value indicates a reliability level of 62%. Based on the findings from the literature review, this Cronbach's alpha value of 62% is considered for further analysis.

Research on Influencing Factors and Driving Path of BIM Application in Construction Projects Based on the SD Model in China

The BIM (building information model), as an innovative architectural technology, has received sufficient attention in the AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction) industry, providing many possibilities for improving building management. Therefore, exploring the factors influencing of how BIM technology is applied has strong practical significance for promoting the application of BIM technology. Based on previous research, this article identified 16 factors that affect the application of BIM and established a relationship function between the influencing factors based on the current actual situation. A system dynamics (SD) model was constructed to analyze the mechanism of these factors and explore the key influencing factors of BIM application. The research results indicate that BIM technology maturity, the difficulty level of BIM software operation, and the degree of collaboration among various departments within an enterprise are key influencing factors. This article conducts an empirical analysis of a large project in China. Based on the research results, targeted improvement measures are proposed to improve the current level of BIM technology application and promote further development of BIM technology. However, due to the rapid development of BIM technology, the effects and weights of the influencing factors in different eras may not be consistent. The reference effect of this study’s results on era period of ten years or even longer is weakened, and scholars will need to continuously update this article in the future.

BIM-centered high-speed railway line design for full infrastructure lifecycle

In the field of civil engineering, specifically within railway projects, the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become imperative. However, the sector's adherence to traditional methods for infrastructure design and management has delayed the widespread adoption of BIM. This paper describes a BIM-centered methodology applied to a real-world High-Speed Railway Line (HSRL) project. Through an extensive examination of HSRL design parameters and the integration of various BIM-based tools, a 3D parametric design model is generated. This model serves as the foundation for evaluating up to five design alternatives, considering technical and economic aspects. Furthermore, a degradation model is proposed to assess alternative performance over the infrastructure's full lifecycle under specific rail traffic assumptions. This facilitates a rapid evaluation of alignment design's impact on maintenance costs. The paper draws two main conclusions with potential benefits for both private companies and railway administrations: Firstly, BIM proves feasible and advantageous despite some interoperability challenges, highlighting the need for continued advancements in BIM software compatibility. Secondly, the proposed approach can potentially lead to up to 40% cost savings in maintenance for railway administrations.

The impacts of 5D-Building Information Modeling on construction's Time and cost performance

The construction sector is essential to a country's economic growth and development. This is why the construction of building projects is one of the most pressing concerns for the Indonesian government. The industrial sector has become increasingly dynamic and responsive to the challenges of building projects due to technological advancements. One example is the Building Information Modelling (BIM) 5D, an emerging technology integrating project implementation time and costs into a 3D model. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the success factors of BIM 5D implementation on the time and cost performance of high-rise building construction projects at Campus-II UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya. This was achieved through a quantitative research method using a questionnaire completed by 62 respondents: the project manager, site manager, engineering head, and site engineer. Moreover, descriptive statistics were utilized to examine the frequency distribution of concentration measures and data distribution on sample characteristics and variables. The findings showed that the factors of tender document, human resources, BIM software, planning process and production process simultaneously positively affected the construction project's cost and time performance.