Benefits of BIM in Structural Analysis

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#009 Benefits of BIM in Structural Analysis

The advantages of BIM are still not often utilized in the construction industry. This includes use by structural engineers. Therefore, this episode focuses specifically on the benefits that BIM offers structural engineers.

Why BIM?

Building Information Modeling provides better and easier understanding of structural systems. Using a BIM model, you can look at the respective IFC files in free viewers and thus imagine the structural system in more detail. It is also easier to see what the architect thought during the design and how this can be transferred to the structural system.

The structural engineer receives direct information about materials, cross-sections, wall thicknesses, and so on. Spaces and boundaries are clearly visible and it is possible to assess how the possible critical points and problems can be solved with regard to other design projects. The appearance of the building is also easier to imagine in a 3D model than in 2D plans.

Ideally, IFC data are imported and thus, a structural analysis model is generated. Then, it is only necessary to enter supports, hinges, or loads. The use of BIM prevents errors. A digital twin shows at an early stage where problems may arise, and it is less error-prone than a human.

Efficiency is also a major benefit. Components can be standardized so that it is possible to enter prefabricated components over and over again in various projects. There are BIM libraries with downloadable information that can be imported into the software easily. Standards also ensure easier and faster handling and fewer sources of error.

In previous episodes, it was mentioned that Open BIM stands for openness. Here, an important keyword is interoperability: the ability to exchange data between applications or software tools, which allows for loss-free exchange between programs by various producers. Among other things, IFC plays a role here as an open, producer-independent data format that is used to read and write various structural data.

There is also the direct data exchange capability: To do this, you define a specific software landscape and optimize the coordination of the respective software coupling with the software used. However, there is a risk of incompatibility if only a few software options are available. With an open BIM exchange, every software should be able to read, write, and evaluate the open interfaces.

BIM generates synergy effects: positive effects due to the cooperation of several people, companies, or similar, where both sides benefit.

An all-inclusive software for the ideal representation of solutions does not exist. This is why isolated solutions are used, but they are not always efficient. BIM combines both concepts.

Steel Structures

What are the options for using BIM directly in a structural engineering office?

Classic building structures of office complexes, apartment houses, and so on, as well as steel and timber structures, are predestined for the exchange between CAD and framework programs. In some cases, the programs also provide direct communication. The Dlubal programs provide the option to exchange data between the CAD manufacturer Tekla and RFEM or RSTAB.

If the programs already include an analysis model when modeling, structural engineers can save a lot of modeling effort. The architect is responsible for this type of analysis model. To do this, however, they need to know which elements are relevant to the structural engineer, which components should be load-bearing, and so on. Therefore, it is important to involve the structural engineer in the design phase and to ensure there is thorough communication between the architect and the structural engineer.

Some programs also have bidirectional data exchange. This means that if you modify something in the structural analysis program and thus obtain different results, you can transfer the new elements to the global building model and change them there at the same time.

The geometric model of a structure can also be created from an existing BIM model. For example, this allows for precise determination of the dimensions or the derivation of simple formwork, structural, or reinforcement problems.

BIM is becoming increasingly mandatory. In many other countries, public sector contracts must already be carried out using BIM methods. As a BIM user, you have a clear advantage and can win potential contracts.

• "The question is: When is the right time to take advantage of the BIM options? And the answer is very clear: Now." (Martina)

It is worth getting started, setting the course for the future, and contributing to the digitization of the construction industry. BIM will significantly and permanently change the future of building and planning. Therefore, it is all the more important that lossless data exchange works as the foundation of the BIM workflow. Furthermore, we should not lose touch with other countries. There is a great opportunity to focus on the education and training of all those involved in BIM. Only in this way can the relevant knowledge and experience contribute to the next step.