Investigation of Structural Analysis Format (SAF) on Suitability for BIM-Based Structural Design

The objective of this paper is to investigate the Structural Analysis Format (SAF), which is tailored for structural analysis, for its suitability for BIM-based structural design. To this end, the topic of BIM is initially classified in general in the context of structural design, whereby important aspects of structural analysis are highlighted as well. Then, the paper presents the most common interfaces for structural design that are used for a BIM-based data exchange of structural models.

Author	Daniel Dlubal
University	Technical University of Munich, Germany

Reinforcement Content in RFEM (Top) and Revit (Bottom) After Export via Direct Interface

Special focus is placed on the cooperation between architects and structural engineers. With regard to interoperability, different variants of data transfer between CAD and structural analysis programs are shown. For each of these interfaces, advantages and disadvantages as well as their opportunities and difficulties are discussed. In order to answer the initial question regarding the usability of the SAF format, it is determined in the context of several data exchange scenarios that the SAF is on a good path for a BIM-oriented exchange of statically relevant data and that further improvements can be expected in the future. Finally, the master thesis is completed with a clear guideline for BIM-based structural design. This provides the reader with elementary recommendations to successfully participate in a BIM project.

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