Invariant Signatures of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Objects to Support BIM Interoperability between Architectural Design and Structural Analysis

A reliable survey of the building geometry is a basic tool for the knowledge of the structure and the correct setting of numerical computational models. An accurate procedure of the method was applied to the build of the 3D model of church of San Nicola Montedoro in Martina Franca (Italy). In this case study, the survey of the church was performed using integrated geomatics techniques: TLS (Terrestrial Laser Scanner), terrestrial and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) photogrammetry. In this way, it was possible to obtain an accurate and detailed geometric point cloud of the object. Subsequently, the 3D mesh model was generated from the point clouds. An adequate procedure of simplification and regularization of the meshes allowed to export and subsequently to import them into BIM (Building Information Modeling) software and structural analysis. In addition, a suitable procedure was implemented to produce a model based on Finite Element Method from a simplified model of polysurface mesh, which allowed quantifying the distortions of the building, through the knowledge of the details of each element, becoming the basis for subsequent analysis of the same.KeywordsScan-to-BIMPoint cloudFEM

Integration of the structural project into the BIM paradigm: A literature review

The aging population is growing drastically all over the world. With the advent of the global era, universal design is garnering considerable interest, as the number of multicultural families is increasing, and various user classes are being created. In addition, with the advances in construction technology, architectural design is becoming more diverse, and convenience facilities are also getting distributed in various ways. As a result, more buildings need to apply universal design, indicating that various architectural information and universal design for the user class are required. Various data are needed for universal design evaluation, but there is a limit to evaluating with two-dimensional (2D) drawings. However, the limitations of 2D drawings can be overcome via building information modeling (BIM) combined with architectural data, which remarkably simplifies the universal design evaluation. This study was conducted with the aim to analyze architectural information by extracting architectural elements necessary for universal design evaluation from BIM data. It was confirmed that the calculations for universal design evaluation can be performed by 3D shape or attribute analysis using BIM data and computer programming. In order to create an automated evaluation algorithm for universal design, the evaluation methods were classified according to the universal design evaluation guide, based on building users and user diversity. In addition, even if the evaluation methods were the same by location, different points were classified by location, and evaluation items and information necessary for the evaluation were organized by category for each facility. Through this classification, we created an algorithm with seven types of methods for extracting the BIM data and comparing them by evaluation method for an automated analysis. In addition, an analysis was performed directly on the BIM design sample model using an automated evaluation algorithm. Although there were various architectural objects in the design data, evaluation was possible using algorithms. By applying the universal design evaluation and BIM data evaluation methods, we could confirm that the BIM-based universal design automation evaluation method prevents human error and is thus superior to the existing evaluation methods. Further, the automation evaluation method can contribute to BIM activation as the BIM data can be used in various studies such as design certification evaluation and automation analysis.

The integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Internet of Things (IoT) with Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents a transformative shift in the architectural and engineering practices for large-span structures. This paper delves into the quantitative and qualitative enhancements brought about by these technologies, focusing on their pivotal roles in design precision, structural analysis, project management, and maintenance strategies. CAD's evolution from simple drafting to complex 3D modeling has significantly reduced design time and errors, while its integration with structural analysis software has improved load distribution accuracy and material cost efficiency. BIM's contribution to design, construction, and sustainability emphasizes optimized resource allocation and energy-efficient practices. Furthermore, IoT and AI's role in real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance underpins a proactive approach to structural health, ensuring longevity and safety. Through statistical analysis, mathematical modeling, and case studies, this paper highlights the synergistic impact of these technologies on reducing project timelines, enhancing collaboration, and fostering innovation in large-span structure engineering. The findings advocate for a multidisciplinary approach, combining engineering expertise with advanced computational tools to achieve superior outcomes in the construction and maintenance of large-span structures.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a revolutionary stride of technology in the orthodox construction and procedures in conventional Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry which is stressed upon for its delay on embracing new technologies. The strength of BIM has been disvalued in the eyes of many professionals, to think of BIM as just another ‘software’ which is in reality, a ‘process’ of attaining an outstanding collaboration among each and every stakeholder throughout a project’s life cycle. Hence, the philosophy of Supply Chain Management (SCM) in a construction project can be achieved effectively with the BIM’s promise of flexible and transparent interaction among Construction Supply Chain (CSC) contributors. However, the complexities in CSC of a conservative setup has been more composite with the intervention of BIM. Consequently, the BIM project stakeholders have encountered complications on the effective application of BIM on CSC while reaching the envisioned goals of BIM. Thus, the intention of this study is to develop a foreseeable information flow model related to construction supply chain in a BIM aided project. In order to attain the aim, an extensive literature synthesis was piloted to develop a conceptual informational flow model among CSC stakeholders of a BIM project. This contemporary research outlines that the CSC of a BIM project is much interactive and flexible with its collaborative effort of stakeholders when compared to the clashes among professionals in traditional setups. In a practical context, the roles and duties of BIM project stakeholders identified in BIM standards, have slightly differed due to real-world complications in construction industry. Besides that, BIM standards have laid down charismatic arrangements on information flows among BIM project stakeholders, which is in reality, a complex and random setup. Hence, the research outcome has successfully answered the complications by laying down guidelines for any outsider to the BIM field to recognise what would be the contribution of each stakeholder throughout the BIM project’s life cycle.

Many manual calculations and repeated modeling are required during the traditional structural design process. However, due to the high cost, rural buildings in China cannot be professionally designed and verified by designers as urban buildings, and their safety and economy cannot easily meet the requirements. Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and intelligent optimization algorithms can effectively improve the structural design process and reduce design costs, but their applications in the field of rural residential buildings in China are limited. Therefore, this paper presents an innovative framework that realizes the structural design of rural light steel frame structures on the BIMBase platform (widely used BIM software in China, BIMBase 2023R1.3). Based on the parametric library of structural components built on standardized component coding, the framework completes the rapid modeling of rural light steel frame structures and the interaction between the BIMBase platform and structural analysis software, SATWE. The improved two-stage simulated annealing (SA) algorithm is applied to the structural design of rural buildings to obtain a design scheme that meets the design requirements and reduces the material consumption as much as possible. Two prefabricated rural light steel frame structures were analyzed to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed framework. The results show the feasibility of the proposed framework. Compared with traditional manual design methods, the design period can be reduced by six times while maintaining comparable levels of material consumption and structural design indicators.

Development of a Building Information Modelling Asset (BIMAsset) value realisation model

With the emergence and development of BIM (Building Information Modeling), traditional architectural design pattern have had great changes. By analyzing the trend and technical content of BIM and taking the Step Vision for example, this paper presents the application of BIM as a new concept in the design and further discusses the advantages and disadvantages in architecture design.

The application of AI technology in architectural software has brought various innovations and changes to the industry. By introducing convolutional neural networks and deep neural networks, architectural design software is expected to automatically identify and generate complex architectural images, optimize the design process, and provide intelligent design assistance. Through literature research, this paper aims to discuss the specific application of CNN and DNN in parametric design and the innovation brought by them, and analyzes the application of these technologies in architectural image recognition, generation, design optimization and other aspects. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers in related fields and promote the innovative application of AI technology in architectural design. The application of AI technology in architectural software has brought numerous innovations and changes to the industry. By introducing convolutional neural networks and deep neural networks, architectural design software is expected to automatically identify and generate complex architectural images, optimize the design process, and provide intelligent design assistance. Through literature research, this paper aims to discuss the specific application of CNN and DNN in parametric design and the innovation brought by them; it also analyzes the application of these technologies in architectural image recognition, generation, design optimization, and other aspects. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers in related fields and promote the innovative application of AI technology in architectural design.

Enabling Building Information Modeling (BIM) Practices in the Canadian Construction Industry: A case for an academic programIn today’s construction industry, we are seeing a growing number of complex and high qualityconstruction projects all around the world using the BIM process. In order to get the most benefitout of BIM, there is a dire need for standards and efficient educational programs and courses totrain skilled professionals to support the implementation of BIM in the construction industry.Based on a preliminary environmental scan, there is a huge gap between industry BIM needs andavailable training/educational programs to facilitate effective implementation of BIM.Construction education needs to fill the gaps in BIM training for industry to remain current,responsive and relevant. Although an increasing number of educational institutions offeringarchitecture, engineering and construction programs have initiated to offer BIM related courses,there is no comprehensive curriculum developed by local academia to address the BIM relatedtraining needs of the construction industry in Alberta. Several researches and case studiesadvocate that industry stakeholders can use BIM technologies to save time and cost, whileimproving building quality. Integrating BIM collaboratively among stakeholders will also boostcompetitiveness and productivity in the building industry.BIM enables team collaboration, assisting project managers to more reliably communicateproject’s intent to all stakeholders in a timely fashion. It is therefore important for industry andacademic institutions to work collaboratively in order to understand the level and skillsetrequired for effective implementation of BIM practices in the industry.The paper aims to review the current state of BIM training programs; consult and solicitfeedback with various stakeholders with respect to training; and recommend appropriate trainingprograms that provides industry professionals with the fundamental skills and knowledge ofprinciples, terminologies, tools, and techniques related to BIM practices. The research utilizes aqualitative methodology to capture stakeholder’s experiences and understanding differentperspectives on BIM practices in the industry. The study suggests that a BIM certificate will helptraining our professionals better to address the needs of BIM practices in the constructionindustry. There is a dire need for a certificate program that provides the required skillset toproduce career ready professionals for enabling BIM practices in the construction industry. Thestudy findings would be of interest to BIM experts, construction professionals, and facultyinvolved with BIM education.

BIM (Building Information Modelling) technologies are now an integral part of architectural design and construction, enabling the integration, automation, and optimization of processes in these fields. Mastery of BIM is a critical component of modern architectural education, necessitating the adoption of effective software tools and technologies that play a pivotal role in contemporary design and construction management. This study conducts a comparative analysis of the efficiency of two software products - Autodesk Revit and Graphisoft ArchiCAD - used at various stages of architectural project creation. The primary goal of this research is to analyze the process of acquiring professional competencies through the study of BIM platforms. Based on an exploration of the functional features of BIM technologies in architectural design, the hypothesis is proposed that students mastering specific BIM platforms over equivalent periods and with similar learning intensity achieve comparable skill levels due to the shared workflows inherent in the creation of information models. This paper presents an independent, comprehensive evaluation of BIM software, assessing user interface intuitiveness, modelling tool usability, project documentation creation, parametric modelling, interdisciplinary collaboration support, library accessibility, and application in architectural, landscape, and interior design. Additionally, the study introduces a universal adaptation criterion - a measure of the time required for students to master the basic functionalities of the software. The conclusions summarize students' experiences with the study of BIM technologies in architecture, offering recommendations for the combined study of Graphisoft ArchiCAD and Autodesk Revit to foster comprehensive skill development. The findings aim to improve the quality of training for future architects and hold practical value for educational institutions in modernizing curricula. These insights may also guide software developers in refining their products to better address educational needs.

Internet has increased its capacities and possibilities exponentially since its inception. This evolution has been possible because of new standards and technologies, like Web services. Structural analysis software has benefited from the Web supplying a new set of applications that provide highly intensive computational tasks in Web servers. However, recent and future improvements in the Internet will enable the development of a new type of structural analysis application fully integrated in Web browsers and not only deployed as Web services. This type of Internet application is formally known as a Web application. This paper presents the development of a 3D Web application for structural analysis, known as Structural Analysis Software as a Service, which is applied to 3D lattice girder structures. The latest cutting-edge Internet technologies are used to address fundamental issues inherent to structural analysis software such as visualization, interaction, and structural analysis. Specifically, WebGL API, part of the new HTML5 standard, is used to solve the visualization and interaction issues of the proposed application. This prototype only requires an Internet connection and an updated browser that supports these new standards. No additional plug-in or virtual machine interpreter is needed; thus, platform independence is guaranteed.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the current trend in the construction industry globally, and Malaysia, is not an exception too. BIM has been in Malaysia for the past ten (10) years, and in the future, BIM will be an industry standard, instead of an optional service. Even though BIM is already in the industry for ten (10) years, many developers are still reluctant to implement it because they could not see the benefits of BIM especially in monetary terms. This paper aims to explore the understanding developers of BIM and its impact on Return on Investment (ROI). A literature review is carried out to review the linkage between BIM and ROI. The study engages qualitatively with four (4) respondents who held the title of BIM managers in their respective companies that have experience in BIM. Data was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interview sessions and was analysed using qualitative content analysis techniques. From the findings, the respondents do understand BIM and that BIM is not a tool for visualisation only. It is, in fact, able to help them in project control. The findings show that BIM had impacted on the ROI of both the project and organisation. At present, these findings support the argument that BIM does have an impact on the ROI both positively and negatively. However, the findings prove that BIM is worthy of its pricey initial investment. It is, therefore, suggested that Malaysian developers invest in BIM though the initial investment may seem pricey.

Building information modeling (BIM) has become an integral part of commercial construction processes in recent years. This article summarizes a research study undertaken to explore the frequency of BIM application, the advantages and effects of using BIM, and various other methods associated with developing and using BIM models in commercial construction. Executive, mid-management, and BIM practitioner-level employees from eighteen leading commercial general contracting firms (with regard to BIM use) were surveyed to determine how their companies utilized BIM. Thirty-two different applications of BIM use were identified for commercial construction, and those most commonly utilized included clash detection, 3-D modeling, team collaboration, constructability issues of design, and sales. Communication, scheduling, coordination, visualization, and clash detection were identified as the top advantages of using BIM. Regarding the effects of using BIM, companies reported a positive impact on profitability, time of construction, and marketing. Finally, this article discusses various processes for using BIM, how models were used internally and with trade partners, and the decisions affecting BIM use by leading commercial contractors.

In order to avoid the safety problems of the public building structure in the dense passenger flow environment, the structural health monitoring system is combined with the Building Information Modeling (BIM) method. This paper proposed a dynamic building information management system based on Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) information to ensure the security of its passenger flow information for a crowded exhibition hall. The continuous development of BIM (building information modeling) technology has greatly promoted the development of the construction industry. We can achieve real-time updating and visualization of sensor monitoring data and effectively manage different types of monitoring information as well as improve the controllability and safety of building structure monitoring by introducing BIM technology into structural health monitoring. A static building information model (BIM) was established to generate dynamic passenger flow information through video data learning, and provide a basis for structural health monitoring system for structural safety analysis and emergency response functions under dense passenger flow conditions. A dynamic building information management system suitable for structural health monitoring was built to display the dynamic network of traffic capacity in real time, so that the building information model is dynamic and predictable. The establishment for the combination mechanism of BIM and SHM system improved the data information circulation of BIM system. It could carry out dynamic health monitoring management and early warning control of building structures, realize information sharing in the process of health monitoring, and effectively improve the safety and operational efficiency of public building structures.