2016Fleming.pdf

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POZNAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY (PUT)

FACULTY OF CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING

BIM modelling for structural analysis

BY

WOJCIECH STANISŁAW FLEMING MAY 2016

Thesissubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Technology: Structural Engineering

In the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Poznan University of Technology. Master thesis realized in partnership with the Tampere University

of Technology, Finland.

Supervisors: Adam Glema, Professor PUT, Faculty of Civil Engineering at PUT Co-supervisor: Markku Heinisuo, Professor, Faculty of Civil Engineering at TUT Co-supervisor: Toni Teittinen, Doctoral Student, Faculty of Civil Engineering at TUT

CPUT copyright information

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DECLARATION

I, Wojciech Stanisław Fleming, declare that the contents of this dissertation/thesis represent my own unaided work, and that the dissertation/thesis has not previously been submitted for ac-ademic examination towards any qualification. Furthermore, it represents my own opinions and not necessarily those of the Poznan University of Technology or Tampere University of Technology.

Wojciech S. Fleming 16.05.2016

Signed Date

[email protected]

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DIPLOMA WORKSHEET

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ABSTRACT

magine a world where designers have full understanding construction process, the ability to preview the decision taken before the moment. The clear communi-cation during the whole life cycle of buildings. Our imaginations today become a reality. The solution is Building Information Modelling (BIM). The BIM process could revo-lutionize the construction market, and the system which our predecessors knew, cease to exist. It is a hot topic nowadays, every company in Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC) market see benefits in implementing this technology into their own businesses. This change is comparable to the introduction of the Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to the design office. The change is inevitable.

Writing this master thesis has strengthened my own ability to work independently. In October 2015, I was not aware of many problems that could occur along my scientific path. I did not know anything about the BIM process. I could not even use the software for 3D mod-elling. At first, I felt it was too hard for me: foreign language and new technology. But as the thesis was developed I saw more and more advantages. Poland has to learn a lot about BIM process from our Scandinavian neighbours. The dissertation shows if all pro-ject will be create according BIM rules, then a lot of money and time can be saved. Every year, growing number of specialized companies is noticed in the implementation the BIM technology in the companies in the construction industry. Each software vendor work on they own file for-mats and platform. Here is the main problem, which inhibits the development of BIM process. Each of designers want to work on the best software. Often, each vendor has in its offer a unique product. When, a set of unique software is composed to office, appears a problem in cooperating between them. Then, the compatibility issues is checked when design models are transferred between each other. The best solution to this problem is to use export/import function by using universal format, popularly known as IFC.

The aim of this thesis is to find the software, standards that can be used by anyone in order to communicate with each other without any data lose, any faults and provide transpar-ent workflow. The majority of this dissertation will detail the workflow process between soft-ware from different vendors as well as from the same vendors. The interoperability between different software programs have been tested and the model behavior have been described. This thesis focus on data exchange by add-on tools, indirect link and direct link options. In this thesis you will find also the characteristics of the BIM process and clarification

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of a number of concepts, without which it is not possible to understand the benefits that this technology brings.

STRESZCZENIE

yobraźmy sobie świat, w którym projektanci mają pełną wiedzę na temat przy-szłej konstrukcji w całym cyklu istnienia. Ponadto cały proces tworzenia obiektu wyróżnia się klarowną i szybką komunikacją pomiędzy uczestnikami procesu. Dziś nasze wyobrażenia mogą stać się rzeczywistością. Rozwiązaniem jest BIM (Modelowanie Informacji o Budynku). Proces BIM może zrewolucjonizować cały rynek budowlany, a system, który znali nasi przodkowie przestanie istnieć. Zmiana ta jest nieunikniona.

Niniejsza praca magisterska umocniła moją zdolność do samodzielnej pracy. W paź-dzierniku 2015 roku, nie byłem świadomy wielu problemów, które pojawiły się w trakcie pisa-nia pracy. Moja wiedza na temat procesu BIM oraz umiejętność obsługi oprogramowapisa-nia BIM była znikoma z naciskiem na zerowa. Na początku czułem, że temat mnie przerasta, gdyż nawet go nie rozumiałem i wiązał się ze wszystkim, co musiałem opanować we własnym zakresie. W dodatku dyplom realizowałem w języku angielskim. Natomiast wraz z rozwojem rozprawy naukowej zauważałem coraz to większe korzyści.

Nasz kraj musi się jeszcze sporo nauczyć od naszych skandynawskich sąsiadów, któ-rych poczynania obserwowałem przez rok podczas wymiany Erasmus+ w Finlandii. W pracy przedstawiono, że dzięki wykorzystaniu procesu BIM w trakcie całego życia obiektu możemy zaoszczędzić sporo czasu oraz pieniędzy. Wskazano szereg problemów, na które napotkamy się wdrażając nową technologie w firmie. A rzeczywistość znacząco odbiega od informacji, jakie dostarczają nam sprzedawcy oprogramowania. Każdy z nas chce pracować na najlepszym oprogramowaniu, co wiąże się z doborem oprogramowania od różnych producentów. Wówczas napotykamy się na szereg problemów związanych z interoperacyjnością pomiędzy nimi. W wyniku, czego jesteśmy zmuszeni do szukania rozwiązań zastępczych. Jesteśmy zmuszeni do znalezienia najefektywniejszej ścieżki przesyłu danych, która będzie charakteryzowała się naj-mniejsza stratą informacji. Celem niniejszej pracy jest dobór najlepszego oprogramowania wraz z odpowiednią ścieżką przesyłu informacji, która zapewnia bezstratną i przejrzystą wy-mianę danych. W pracy przedstawiono proces wymiany w przypadku oprogramowania należą-cego do tego samego dystrybutora oraz w przypadku oprogramowania należąnależą-cego do różnych dystrybutorów. Zamieszczono również wstęp teoretyczny na temat BIM, bez którego pełne zro-zumienie niniejszego tematu może okazać się bardzo trudne.

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Keywords: BIM, Tekla Structures, Revit, IFC, LOD, Interoperability, Workflow

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

any people have contributed in a variety of ways in the preparation of this disser-tation. At Poznan University of Technology I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my graduated supervisor, Professor Adam Glema for his kind super-vision and great ideas and support without which this research would not have been possible. I would like to thank you for pushing me to keep improving my work.

During my Erasmus+ exchange program in Finland I met a lot of motivated people. I spent at Tampere University of Technology nearly one year. The biggest acknowledgment would have to go to my co-supervisor professor Markku Heinisuo for his support and ideas. I would like to thank you for your ideas, guidance and time.

Special thanks go to Toni Teittinen who have been very inspirational and sharing expe-rience and information valuable for my thesis. I would like to thank you for your enlightening approach and helping during whole my study period at TUT.

I would like to thank colleagues with years of professional experience from „RCK Biuro Inżynierskie” for yours invaluable help in structural designing.

Finally, I would like to thank to my parents who supported me during whole study pe-riod and for making opportunity of studying engineering a reality. Your support allowed me to pursue my dreams. Thank you.

Tampere, May 2016 Wojciech Stanisław Fleming

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ACRONYMS

AEC - Architecture, Engineering and Construction

AECO - Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations

API - Application Programming Interface

ARSAP - Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional

BCF - BIM Collaboration Format

BIM - Building Information Modelling

BIMserwer - Building Information Modelserwer

BLM - Building Lifecycle Management

CAD - Computer Aided Design

CIS/2 - CIMSteel Integration Standard version 2

COBIE - Construction Operations Building Information Exchange

FM - Facility Manager

GUI - Graphical User Interface

GUID - Globally Unique Identifier

IAI - International Alliance for Interoperability

IDP - Integrated Design Process

IFC - Industry Foundation Classes.

IPD - Integrated Project Delivery

ISO - International Organization for Standardization

LCA - Life Cycle Assessment

LOD - Level-of-Development

LoD - Level-of-Detail

MEP - Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing system

PDF - Portable Document Format

SMC - Solibri Model Checker

SBIM - Structural Building Information Modelling

TBS - Tekla BIMsight

TDP - Traditional Design Process

TS - Tekla Structures

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background

The polish market is still in an embryo stage in implement BIM technology, whereas in the UK the construction industry is in the midst of a technology renaissance. In today’s world, it is impossible to design a complete building with only one design software. This type of sys-tem is not possible up to now. Therefore the members of design process have to learn to play as a team, if they want to deliver the projects on time and on the budget. BIM is not only a new technology but also the way of thinking, a philosophy, behaviours, and a way of being. Before the BIM phase, the construction industry look like in basics, that each member of life cycle of assessment (LCA) looked out strictly for his/her own interests. In BIM all members of the LCA have to collaborate and work together. They have the same goal and desire. In that case, it is easy to see that, the communication is very important. Scott Simpson from Kling Stubbins says „BIM is 10 percent technology and 90 percent sociology” [5.]. There-fore, the BIM is so incredibly difficult issue. Before starting any project the communication channels are committed to be chosen and checked. In result obtains better use of material, en-riched aesthetics of the project and the community esteem. Learning new things is always an ad-venture. Humankind has always been interested in developing everything what was around them. It is very challenging to be a human. This dissertation will take you to a shared journey. This journey is called BIM.

The thesis consist of six chapters. Each of them is inseparably linked with the previous one. That together create a coherent whole. In extension to this dissertation enclose DVD disc, which contains all models. The content of the enclosed DVD disc are listed in Appendix A. Below was attached a brief description of the individual chapters.

Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION

This chapter provides an introduction to the thesis and shows the foun-dation. Here you can find the backgrounds and scope. Besides in this chapter describes used software in whole master thesis.

Chapter 2: BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING

This short section of dissertation provides the definition of Building In-formation Modelling.

Chapter 3: HISTORY, REGULATIONS AND PARTICIPANTS OF BIM PRO-CESS

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This section describes in the nuts and bolts of using BIM technology in whole life cycle of building. The potential benefits of BIM as a new way in the market.

Chapter 4: EXPLANATION THE CONCEPTS CLOSELY RELATED TO BIM

PROCESS

This chapter provides a collection of terms connected with BIM with lu-cid explanation.

Chapter 5: INTEROPERABILITY IN BIM

This section describes the collaboration and shows examples of different ways of file transfer. It provides a lot of information about Industry Foun-dation Classes.

Chapter 6: CASE STUDY OF WORKFLOW

In this chapter describes four different model with a couple of different exchange scenario. This part provides an accurate description of the case study used for investigation of interoperability capabilities in a practical way. This part defines which information should be examined and ex-changing from the architectural models to structural analysis software application. For each section the sub-results are provided with the short analysis. Exact calculations of elements is given in appendixes.

Chapter 7: CONCLUSION

In seventh chapter the result from exchange scenarios are gathered, summed up and discussed. This section provides suggestions and prob-lems that have arisen during the research. In this chapter of the study clar-ifies the faults and discusses potential future trends.

1.2. Purpose

The purpose of this master thesis is to check the interoperability between different de-sign software. In order to reduce repetition work and possibility of occurs errors. This disserta-tion should prove, that it is worth finance the development of IFC and this format could replace other old standards. This thesis checks how software can handle with different type of construc-tion e. g. steel, precast structure. What are the strengths and limitaconstruc-tions add on, direct link or in-direct link: CIS/2, IFC.

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1.3. The Software Description used in dissertation

1.3.1. Popular software in BIM process

BIM tools are used by people from different disciplines like architectural, structural and MEP engineers. They choose the best tool for yourself. Structural engineer prefer Tekla Structures, because this program emphasizes on detailing in a model compare with Revit Struc-ture. Moreover Structural engineer uses more than one single program during the work. He has to use tool for drafting and for structural analysis. While architect prefer to use Revit Architec-ture or ArchiCAD. Robot Structural Analysis and AxisVM are used to dimension of strucArchitec-ture. Examples of BIM tools are presented in the Tab. 1, 2, 3, 4.

Table 1. BIM tools for modelling object.

Software Company Website

ArchiCAD Nemetschek www.graphisoft.com

Tekla Structures Trimble www.tekla.com

Vectorworks Nemetschek www.vectorworks.net

Revit Autodesk www.autodesk.com

SketchUP Trimble www.sketchup.com

Table 2. BIM tools for dimensioning of structural construction elements.

AxisVM Inter-VCAD Kft www.axisvm.eu

Tekla Structural Designer Trimble www.tekla.com

RSTAB Dlubal www.dlubal.com

Robot Structural Analysis Professional Autodesk www.autodesk.com

Table 3. BIM tools for estimating.

CostX Exactal www.exactal.com

ZUZIAbim Datacomp Sp. Z o.o. http://www.kosztorysowanie-bim.pl/

VICO Software Trimble www.trimble.com

NORMA EXPERT Athenasoft www.ath.pl

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Table 4. BIM tools for view models. Software Free/ Commercial Company Website Solibri Model Checker

Commercial Solibri www.solibri.com

Tekla BIMsight Free Trimble www.teklabimsight.com

Navisworks Commercial Autodesk www.autodesk.com

Simplebim Commercial Datacubist Oy www.datacubist.com

BIM Vision Free Datacomp Sp. Z o.o. www.bimvision.eu

BIMx Free Nemetschek www.graphisoft.com/bimx/

Revit Architecture and ArchiCAD are the two most common BIM programs in Finland for architectural design. Both programs are proven high quality parametric objects and based on template file. There is big difference in how the programs work technically, but in compare with TS (Tekla Structures), it is abyss. ArchiCAD has more different components in compare to Revit. The components in Revit is called families. Nevertheless all families have to be loaded individually every time. Sometimes it takes a lot of time. Another disadvantages of Revit is to lack of curved window function. ArchiCAD can create faster and in better quality more advanced buildings than in Revit. In ArchiCAD all components are built into the program and they are very advanced. In consequences the model process is faster. In Revit families can be download from internet websites or by install BIMobject plug-in (www.bimobject.com). Built-in components are very helpful, the more of them is located in the program, the better for us.

Table 5. Built-in library of families in BIM and SBIM tools.

Software ArchiCAD 18 (BIM) Revit Architecture

v2015(BIM) Tekla Structures 21.1(SBIM) Built-in Object Wall ✔ ✔ ✔ Door ✔ ✔ ✘ Window ✔ ✔ ✘ Column ✔ ✔ ✔ Beam ✔ ✔ ✔ Slab ✔ ✔ ✔ Stair ✔ ✔ ✔

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Roof ✔ ✔ ✘

Skylight ✔ ✔ ✘

Curtain Wall ✔ ✔ ✘

Object/Components ✔ ✔ ✘

Site model ✔_{Mesh tool} ✔_{Topo surface & site} objects

✘

Unique objects HVAC, electrical, plumbing, furnishing,

cast-in-place, precast concrete, steel, ma-sonry, equipment,

rail-ings.

Component, ceiling, mullion, truss, beam system, foundation, ramp, railing, pad

foot-ings, strip footing, truss, HVAC, electri-cal, plumbing

compo-nents. Precast concrete, cast-in-place, pad footings, strip footings, piles, railings, joints, bracings, corbels, splice connec-tions, etc.

The export option to IFC2x3 files is available in all checked software. Moreover the models can be easily check in the Solibri Model Checker. The problems will be appeared during export model by IFC from ArchiCAD to Revit. In the opposite direction, ArchiCAD can manage and solve problems appears in model.

In this master thesis the tested software application are Revit 2015 and 2016, ArchiCAD 18, Tekla Structures 21.1, 21.0 and 20.0, Robot Structural Analysis 2015 and 2016, AxisVM12, Tekla BIMsight, Simplebim®_{, Solibri Model Checker, and BIM Vision.}

1.3.2. Revit

Revit platform is popular BIM platform in Poland and probably the most widely used in the whole world. Only in Scandinavian country Trimble platform is more popular. Revit Architecture software is very popular among architects. The distinguishing feature of the Au-todesk brand is ribbon as opposed to standard toolbars.

The Revit consist of three parts Revit Architecture, Revit Structural and Revit MEP. First Revit developed in 2000 and in 2002 the Autodesk Company acquired the software from a start-up company. It runs on both operation systems like Windows OS and Macintosh with plug-in Windows BootCamp®. Revit supports the following file format: DWG, DWF/DWFx, IFC, gbXML, html, DXF, DGN, SAT, ADSK, and FBX. Revit is not a perfect

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and it is very hard to create curved wall or add windows with curved glazing or other curved surface.

The native format of Revit is .rvt. All elements (objects) have their own ID number. ID number is a 6-digid combination which stored all information. During export file from Revit to IFC file format, Revit tool is transformed ID into GUID number. Between ARSAP and Revit exist direct link options, which provide interoperability. Moreover this tool is able to link with MS Project (Microsoft Office Project) and exchange scheduling information.

Figure 1. TS-Revit-ARSAP BIM workflow.

1.3.3. ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is an architectural BIM software created for a personal computer with Win-dows OS or Macintosh. It is developed by Graphisoft from Hungary in 1984. This was the first tool which was able to create drawings in 2D and 3D technology. It is considered to be the first software from BIM family on the market. Graphisoft was acquired by Nemetschek in 2007. ArchiCAD provides good bidirectional exchange by IFC format. It is the most common ex-change format in this tool. ArchiCAD has similar problem with RAM memory, like Revit. This software works slowly with large models with high LODs. ArchiCAD communicates with Ax-isVM, TS, Revit Structures, and FEM Design with the help of IFC. ArchiCAD has their own file format .pln, and supports the following file format: DWG, IFC, DGN, DWF/DWFx, DXF, JPEG, GIF, WMF, and GDL.

1.3.4. Tekla Structures

Tekla Company was founded in the mid-1960s in Espoo, Finland. In 1993 Tekla Cor-poration completed the first commercial version of Xsteel intended for structural steel engineer. In 2004 launched on the market the Tekla Structures (TS) software. In 2011 Tekla becomes

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part of Trimble Group. In 2015 Trimble invented the Tekla Structures Designer. TS can create model made of different materials, like steel, reinforcement concrete, precast concrete, timber. Additionally TS has module for construction management and has special modules for steel detailing, precast detailing or reinforcement concrete detailing [8].

TS has better developed tools for detailing than Revit. Nails, screws or welds are mod-elled easily in TS. It is intended primarily for structural engineers. Every object in TS is para-metric. When one parameter is changed, like reinforcement spacing. Then all documentation and model are changed in real time. The biggest advantage of TS is process of creating docu-mentation. Drawings in TS are generated directly from the software with small amount of man-ual intervention. This makes the software a powerful tool for structural engineer. In contrast to Revit, TS works with large models on a good level. This tools requires from operator high level of skills. Another downside of TS may be relatively high cost.

The native format of TS is .db1, and it is certified for IFC 2x3. Every elements in TS have GUID numbers. Between Tekla Structures Designer and TS exists option of direct link, which provide good quality interoperability and communication. TS supports the following file format: DWG, DXF, IFC, XML (Microsoft project), DGN (Microstation), STEP (CIS/2), SDF (Steel Detailing Neutral Format), 3DD (Cadmatic models). TS cooperate with the following analysis software such as AxisVM, Strusoft, GTStrudl, Dlubal, MIDAS, S-Frame, Robot, SAP2000, ETABS, CSC Orion, STAAD.Pro and ISM.

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1.3.5. Tekla BIMsight

Tekla BIMsight is non-commercial. It is possible to download it, from the Trimble web-site. This free viewer allows to open IFC file, view the 3D model, measurement objects, make mark-ups and notes. In addition it allows to check the clashes in the construction e.g. with other elements like beams, ventilation ducts, and other pipes. Thanks to this program, it is easy to ex-plain and solve problems, which appears during design process with another designer.

Figure 3. Clash detection and notes in TBS.

1.3.6. Simplebim®

It is simple and helpful software. Application cooperate with ArchiCAD, Revit and TS. Thanks to this tool, the IFC file can be interfered without knowledge of specialized program-ming language and structure of IFC file. By using Simplebim®, all relevant data from model can be chosen and delivered to other team member. Besides you can give feedback directly to the file and add data from external sources, such as results from FEM-tools with results or components to IFC models. Moreover this software is really good tool for quantity surveyor because there is option of group and pick proper quantities. Thanks Simplebim® there is possi-bility to merge multiple IFC models which contains different storey of buildings into one con-sistent IFC model.

1.3.7. Solibri Model Checker

Solibri Model Checker (SMC) is software from Scandinavia, which is used to checking, viewing and auditing our model. SMC allows make feedback and communicate with other team members. It can check duplicate elements, check the gaps between elements, check location of spaces and conduct the clash detection. In SMC there is possibility of creating BCF file, so it allows to communicate with other team member only with one part of building. Besides there is possibility to check in the model, which object is viewed, added, changed, removed, modified.

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2. BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING

2.1. Definition

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is not a buzzword, it constitutes a paradigm shift in the AEC industry. BIM is a complex process of new intelligent approach and process of maintaining all relevant information to a building over all phase of the building life cycle. It is used to improvement of process, predict outcomes and create computational representation of all building with less environmental impact. Software is an integral part of the modelling process, it is a crux of the BIM. Chuck Eastman describes BIM as “one of the most promising

developments in the architecture, engineering and construction industries” [1]. It is easy to

en-visage that, the Innovation in BIM process will be grown with time. BIM process will destabi-lize the whole construction industry, it will modify everything, not like in case CAD revolution.

Figure 4. CAD vs. BIM.

The design method based on parametric modelling enabling to share created digital model with other team members, in order to achieve jointly success. The collaboration is a fun-damental concept of whole BIM process. The collaboration helps to team members to overcome obstacles. BIM process supports interoperability and communication throughout the whole life cycle of a building. According to [3], the traditional construction process is wasted in the field 30% of the total cost due to wasted material, coordination errors, lack of collaboration, ineffi-cient labor, no optimization. The reason for this is, among other things, the linear scheme of work and the fragmentation of the AEC industry and it should be replaced by an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) system. In which team consist of self-contained people who collaborate in order to achieve a common goal.

Through the use of 4D technology it will be easier to understand the schedule process, because it will be more transparent for people not related with construction industry like owner, client, public authorities, and manager. The revolution of BIM can be compared with the revo-lution of IT, computer and internet in last century. It shows that it is an investment in the future.

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Figure 5. BIM obstacles and needs.

2.2. BIM Maturity Model

The BIM Maturity Model (BIM Wedge) is used to determine the use of BIM process in the project. The BIM wedge presents on Fig. 6, it includes four levels of development from 0 to 3. The red line indicates, at which level is currently the United Kingdom. The violet line indicates location of Poland. In UK all buildings financed from public budget should be de-sign according to level 2 of BIM maturity model.

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Table 6. Three levels of BIM Maturity.

Level Description

Level 0 The level requires data exchange by use paper documentation or electronic, the exchange data is linear and asynchronous. Entire documentation should be made in 2D technology with no 3D data. In zero level the interoperability is on the basic level.

Level 1 The level requires to use a Common Data Environment (CDE) during design pro-cess according to standards BS1192. It is a simple collaborative environment de-signed for everyone from AEC industry. This system avoid duplication of mis-takes, reduce time and cost, reuse information to support cost planning, estimat-ing, management.

Entire documentation should be made in 2D or 3D technology. Model does not contain useful data, which can be shared with other team members. In practice it looks like: each engineer create single-disciplinary models: architectural model, structural model and MEP model. The exchange file format is DWF or PDF etc. The chart below presents lifecycle phases.

Level 2 The model of construction should be created in BIM software and delivered in digital version, transferable without security. Without security means, that the model should be collaborate by proprietary formats e.g. Revit file format .rvt between Revit architecture and Revit structure, and by non-proprietary for-mats e.g. between ArchiCAD and Tekla Structures using the IFC file format. In second level of BIM Maturity Model all data are shared between all team members involved in the project. During this process adopted additionally 4D (time analysis) and 5D (cost estimating) process. The delivery file should contain 3D models in native format, drawings and documents in Portable Document For-mat (PDF). The chart below shows lifecycle phases.

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Level 3 The level requires fully integrated and collaborative process with data exchange and with systems provides the facility management and life costing data. Entire process of sharing files, thoughts, remarks should take place in the cloud by proper web services. This full integration can be achieved by model server technologies. This level allows to complex analysis. The chart below shows lifecycle phases.

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3. HISTORY, REGULATIONS AND PARTICIPANTS OF BIM

PRO-CESS

3.1. A Brief History of BIM

The history of the division of roles in the construction industry began in 1452. Italian chitect Leon Battista Alberti wrote bilingual book „De Re Aedificatoria” (The ten books of ar-chitecture) in which he distinguished two separate domains, such as design and construction from one architecture. In the fifteenth century it was assumed that the construction process re-quires a staff of different professionals in order to obtain the final product. This chapter is a short story about concept evolution.

It all began in 1957, when two American computer scientist, Dr. Patrick, J. Hanratty de-veloped first CAM (Computer-Aided Machining) software – „PRONTO”, a numerical control programming tool. Few years later, Ivan Sutherland created first CAD software – „Sketchpad”. In 1982 was demonstrated the first AutoCAD by Autodesk. In the same year was founded the Autodesk company by John Walker, a coauthor of the AutoCAD 1.0. From several years, an-nual revenue of the Autodesk Inc. is bigger than US$2.5 billion.

Figure 7. Development timeline of CAD and BIM systems.

The name connected with BIM was created by Charles Eastman in the late 1970s at Geor-gia Institute of Technology. He used in his book phrase „Building Product Model”, which was developed by Phil Bernstein. He is the first, who used term „Building Information Model”. Building modelling based on 3D technology was first developed in the early 80s of the last century, by Gabor Bojar, who smuggled two laptops from the west [1]. This Hungarian scientist created the first BIM software for personal computer, such as ArchiCAD 1.0 in 1983. At the

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time, Hungary was covered by the communist system, in which all western technology was pro-hibited. Please imagine the designers at that time, for which it had to be a huge change. All drawings can be editable and they can easily scale.

In 1993 was released the first version of PDF, soon after it became the main exchange format for 2D drawings. In 1994 created a coalition of various people from AEC community, in order to solve the problem with compatibility of software become from different vendors. This community defined as Industry Alliance for Interoperability created the first version of IFC file format in 1997. Then in 2000, Charles River Software has developed Revit in Cam-bridge, which was written in C++ and used the idea of parametric components. In 2004 was re-leased the first version of Tekla Structures for steel detailer. Then the Alliance for Interopera-bility change its name on International Alliance for InteroperaInteropera-bility (IAI) and finally renamed on BuildingSMART in 2005. Today, BIM technology and process can be found in the Archi-tecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) industry across the world. Over the past years, incredibly effort has been inserted into development of three-dimensional BIM with 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D dimensions.

Figure 8. The graph presents the BIM dimensions. Visualization means design structure in 3D, animation,

render-ing and walkthroughs. Time means schedulrender-ing of construction, project phasrender-ing simulations. Cost means pricrender-ing and estimating. Sustainability means conceptual energy analysis, LEED tracking. Facility Management means Building Lifecycle Management (BLM), BIM Maintenance Plans and Technical Support.

3.2. BIM process and 2D, 3D modelling

The main difference between 2D and 3D technology is that, in 3D objects are modelled, while in 2D objects are drown line by line. In Poland BIM is in initial phase, but it systemati-cally evaluate. Many companies still work on 2D technology, but they realize that 3D technol-ogy is a future and it can save time and money. Drawings made in 2D technoltechnol-ogy are a source of misunderstanding. Moreover in CAD systems every element has to be edited manually

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by the designer. All cross sections are detailed manually with thousands of objects such us gird-ers, pad foundations, baseboards. In BIM whole cross sections are created automatically. People involved in the building process will agree that the devil is in the details and everyone sees details better in 3D. CAD technology in comparison to 3D modelling is time consuming. It quires a lot of time to generate single drawing. This old technology condemns to delays, re-peated work, documentation consist of many pages.

BIM is revolutionizing construction market with Finland leading the way. During my exchange program in Finland I decided to visit software vendors and organization using BIM process in practice. I chose the Trimble Company. This software vendor was launched software on the market, like Tekla Structures, Tekla Designer or Tekla BIMsight. I visited the headquarters of Trimble in Helsinki, Finland on 16 December 2015. I met with Michael Evans (Education & Key Account Segment Director at Trimble - UK) and Jody Brookshire (Global Education Programs Manager at Trimble - US). It was a great opportunity to understand their vision of BIM in Finland, USA and UK in comparison to my. In Poland occur phenomenon of the „Hollywood BIM”. It means that contractor uses the BIM process only to improve better display or creates only model in 3D tools and does not further use all model with built-in infor-mation to another steps.

Sometimes single companies use BIM technologies and collaborate with offices, which based on CAD technology. The situation is called like a „lonely BIM”. Another prob-lems, which occurs during interoperability is trust to share with all model in native file with an-other company. Because they can use our work without our permission. That’s why a lot of companies do not share with own work like a trade secrets. Then the integrated process delivery (IPD) is not make sense and this situation is well known as „selfish BIM”. Then the data exchange based on PDF files or IFC files through Tekla BIMsight or other soft-ware intended to open indirect link.

Figure 9. Graphical illustrations of BIM in three different states.

The Fig 10. Presents how many programs is used during design the Helsinki Music Center, Finland. Finland is considered to be the number one in the use of BIM technology on the whole

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according to BIM rules [1]. The object is distinguished by style sustainability and modernity. Many applications from different vendors are used to create this building. For example RI-USKA Software from Granlund is used to for analysis energy consumptions. The BIM process was controlled by Tomi Henttinen from Gravicon Oy during whole design and construction phase.

Figure 10. Example of interoperability design in Finland on the example Helsinki Music Centre.

3.3. Building Information Model Life-Cycle

All projects should be preceded by in-depth analysis. The first stage is to determine the goals and measure the benefits of BIM process. The next step is to choose software tools, delivery method, and type of process and create all specifications. The next step is to select team members, create strategies and method of evaluation and modifications. The team member should be selected painstakingly, because subsequent changes lead to delays and lack of effi-ciency in team. After that the conceptual model can be created. After the whole process of ac-ceptation. The detailed model can be created in the same time the analysis process is carried out. Another team members should create budget, construction schedule and cost estimation. Then designers create model with high level of detail and whole necessary information. Next step is to create documentation of shop drawings for fabricators. Finally the documenta-tion is created for contractors.

There is also possibility to initiating the BIM process during advance construction phase. It is never too late to adopt BIM process.

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Figure 11. The BIM life-cycle: the typical phases of the BIM implementation.

3.4. Guidelines

The following guidelines have been developed by experienced people with BIM pro-cess. This guidelines are contained useful tips and requirements. It explains how to use new technology and how to avoid mistakes in the initial phase. The national guidelines series is the result of continuous development and the growing needs of the AEC sectors. Finland is derived the COBIM requirements on the market. COBIM 1.0 was published on March 2012. Another popular BIM requirements comes from Singapore. The currently Singapore BIM guide 2nd edition was published in August 2013.

Similar BIM guidelines are available on government websites in other countries, such as USA, UK, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, Estonia, South Korea, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Australia (links are included in the bibliography).Besides there are the countries where BuildingSMART organization is active. BuildingSMART helps to author-ities and governments increase efficiency in the building market. It helps to introduce standards and knowledge about new technology, which avoid from duplicate efforts and save time and money.

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Figure 12. COBIM documents (figure on left side) [9], The Singapore BIM guide (figure on right side) [10].

3.5. The new participants of the BIM process

Today, the designers strive to design faster, cheaper and with bigger efficiency. AECO industry are consistently changing in order to continuous development. Small companies will meet more obstacles then the big one. Because BIM is a technology based on collaboration, this is connected with involved people from many industries. Everyone requires different spe-cialist BIM tool. In addition, at least one person from each branch has to be high experienced, which is associated with high costs. Furthermore, on the market appeared demand for new spe-cialists.

3.5.1. BIM Facilitator

BIM Facilitator occurs only in companies, where BIM technologies is in implemented phase. He or she helps employees, who do not have experience with new techniques.

3.5.2. BIM Manager

BIM Manager or BIM coordinator is a team member, which is responsible for the con-tinuous improvement of collaboration between entire crew and with people from outside. He or she should resolve problems in the most efficient way. Besides he is responsible for strat-egy and work schedule. When BIM manager and head designer is the same person then he or she is responsible for the coordination of the design work. BIM coordinator have to be assign to each project. He or she can be the head designer or another member from AEC chain. Person for this position is usually appointed by the Head Designer or Project Man-ager.

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3.5.3. BIM Operator

BIM operator is responsible for creating models, analyzing models, workflow infor-mation. BIM operator is a structural engineer, HVAC engineer, Architect, who use BIM tools or to project engineer position in bigger company. There is one problems, with architects in BIM chain because they do not have any interest in putting additional information to models like fire durability, type of elements (structural, architectural), manufacturer, etc. They focus only on visual view of object. In integrated process, architects should have list of all necessary parameters which they have add to models in order to reduce the additional work at later stages.

3.5.4. BIM Administrator

BIM Administrator is a person, who is responsible for implementation and associated file sharing systems. He or she assists in information flow between clients, suppliers and con-tractors. He or she assists in estimating, design, contract teams. He or she is liaise with suppliers and sub-contractors.

Figure 13. The participants of the building process and chart of information exchange in BIM central model.

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3.5.5. Communication

The BIM concept is closely connected with the process of communication between peo-ple involved in project. Imagine, the company which cooperates with foreign company. Peopeo-ple involved in project have to communicate with other people in foreign language and talk about important things. They talk in this case with people with different specialization. The structural engineer is encountered a clash between steel rafter with ventilation duct. He has to consult the solution with MEP engineers. This situation is very hard to explain in huge building by e-mail. It could lead to e-mails back and forth for couple days. The Fig. 14 describes the best way for communication in BIM process. In that situation the best possibility to communicate will be video conference. The revolution in communication could be Autodesk BIM 360 Glue. This platform works in the network cloud. All members can upload, view the model, run clash detection, and create notes in real time in the network cloud.

Figure 14. The Graph of effective communication, inspired by Dave McCool.

In the case of communication, there is another problem, which is connected with market fragmentation. If the design office works in old schema, architect send to structural engineer all documentation in PDF standard. This documentation presents elevations, floor plans, global views, summary of doors and windows etc. After conceptual design phase, when architect want to moves a door, he has to call to structural engineer and ask him to do it. After that he resends PDF file to him. This situation could be awkward in combinations with advanced construction. It is a reason of many mistakes.

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4. EXPLANATION THE CONCEPTS CLOSELY RELATED TO BIM

PROCESS

4.1. Geometric and non-geometric information

BIM model stores information in two types: geometric and non-geometric. Geometric information is connected with size and shape of the object. The non-geometrical information is related to material properties, the origin and distribution of material.

Table 7. Examples of geometrical and non-geometrical attributes.

GEOMETRICAL ATTRIBUTES NON-GEOMETRICAL ATTRIBUTES

Size Cost

Width Manufacturer

Height Specification

Length Material

Orientation Fire rating

Shape Regulatory compliance

Volume Insulation properties

4.2. Parametric

In CAD technology elements describe only information about geometry – the geometry information. In BIM parametric modelling all objects carry a variety of properties such as ma-terial properties, cost, manufacturer, thermal rating and other metadata - the geometric and non-geometric information.

Figure 15. Difference between a columns created in different stage of BIM Maturity Model. a) The column created

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The BIM process has evolved from based parametric 3D modelling. In Fig. 15 presents the difference between columns created in 2D technology (e.g. AutoCAD 2D), in 3D technol-ogy (AutoCAD 3D) and BIM software (e.g. Tekla Structures or Revit). In third case all infor-mation is embedded in the object and all parameters are editable.

Two types of software for modelling are distinguished. The solid modelling tools (e.g. ArchiCAD, Revit, and Tekla Structures) and surface model tools (e.g. SketchUP or Rhino – www.rhino3d.com). The first one is commonly called parametric modelling tools. All models are created in solid modelling tools have parametric model properties. Models create in surface model software contain only geometrical information without thickness. This object have cor-rect dimensions, location and real appearance. In consequences the main difference between the solid and the surface model will be that the surface model will not have mass properties but the solid model will. All helpful options like clash detection, life cycle cost analysis, energy analysis, and construction cost estimation requires mass and thickness properties. Usually en-gineers do not use solid modelling tools for early design concept in order to create general view of construction. They prefer use surface modelling tools. The concept model is created fast. The concept gives engineers the general view of construction.

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4.3. Level of Development

Figure 17. Example of Level of Development, LOD.

A Level of Development (LOD) is the degree of accuracy of the model. It includes within its scope geometric and non-geometric elements. The value of LOD increase with the progress of project. LOD relate to graphical representation and the properties of the object. Sometimes, the phrase of Level of Detail (LoD) appear in literature, it relates only to the graph-ical representation. It expresses how many details are contained in the object. It is the only dif-ference. Model with higher LoD are recommended. They contain more accurate information.

Table 8. Levels of Development

LOD Lifecycle Phases Definition

LOD 100

Concep-tual(Presentation)

General outline of object. Equipped with an indicative vol-ume, width, length, height. For example: extrude block, which cover all shape of house.

LOD 200 Design Model with a complete geometry. Scheme with geometry, orientation, location. For example: house with roof, balco-nies, and other exterior installations.

LOD 300 Documentation Model with finally determined geometry. Ready to gener-ate layouts of drawings. It is possible to attach non-geo-metrical information to element. For example: house with advanced exterior interface, detailed walls, roof, door and windows.

LOD 400 Construction Model prepare for fabrication and assembly. Model ready for dispatch to sub-contractor with all detailing infor-mation. For consistency the lower LODs can be generated from the LOD 400 and LODs 500 can be generated only from LODs 400. Model has all installation information. For example: additional all components like furnitures, welds, bolts, stairs, and rooms.

LOD 500 Facility Manage-ment

Model prepare for maintenance and operations of the ob-jects. For example: rendered model like in reality.

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4.4. Structural Building Information Modelling

Structural Building Information Modelling (SBIM) is a subset of BIM. It contains all necessary information to structural engineer like: material properties, structural behavior, loads, and boundary conditions, class of steel, class of welds, section properties, load combina-tions and place of axis in geometry. In SBIM model is only elements responsible for carrying loads. Therefore, all non-load-bearing elements, like: doors, windows, non-load baring partition walls, furnitures and other components with decorative function are excluded. Finally new model is generated, which is relevant for structural engineer.

Figure 18. Difference between BIM (right) and SBIM (left) model.

4.5. Project delivery method

4.5.1. Design-Bid-Build

It is the traditional type of delivery method. In Design-Bid-Build (DBB) method the owner only manage with risk. The owner must alone contract an agreement between archi-tect and contractor. In DBB process, there is no overlapping services, provided by archiarchi-tect, contractor or installer. Therefore, this process is considered as a linear. In DBB everyone works on their own account. The double ring on the Fig. 19 means shared responsibility.

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Figure 19. The Design-Bid-Built Concept. Owner contracts two separate agreements between designer and

con-tractor.

If DBB companies work with 2D or 3D CAD software according to Level 1 in BIM Maturity Level, then significant amount of BIM value is lost. With one simple reason, which is the need to complete the design process and required to start the building phase. Integration between design and construction phase is lost.

4.5.2. Design-Build

Design-Build (DB) method is one of the best option to increase collaboration between designers and builder. In DB process the owner sign only one contract with general contractor, which is responsible for design and build. The owner have to trust the general contractor that he will not insist on an architect to makes changes in the project, to stay within the budget. Instead the risk lies with the builder and architect. The design process and build completely overlap each other. As a result, the object is realized faster. The trust is the most important factor in this method. If architect and contactor do not work each other, both companies will col-lapse and the object will not be realized. The double ring on the Fig. 20 means shared respon-sibility.

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4.5.3. Construction Manager at Risk

The Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) is the next method, which is similar to DBB. In CMAR method the owner only manage with risk. The owner alone contracts an agreement divided on two parts, between architect and contractor. The construction manager acts as consultant of owner in all phases. The construction manager is obliged to delivery, the project within a guaranteed maximum price. Similar situations like in DBB, but here the process does not have a linear character. The building process is started faster than in DBB. In consequence the project will be delivered earlier.

Figure 21. The Construction Manager at Risk Concept. The construction manager manages and controls

the owner’s interest and ensures that the costs to not exceed the GMP.

4.5.4. Integrated Project Delivery

Integrated project delivery (IPD) involves people from many different industries to re-duce waste and optimize efficiency through all construction process. This method is very sim-ilar to Design-Build. The main difference is that, the risk is distributed between the participants of the construction process. In consequences, each of them also receives a meaningful reward for the risk involved. In this type of project management all members bear the consequences. The IPD promotes communication, intense collaboration, because the success of a team mem-ber is my success. IPD is considered as a one of the fastest project delivery method. The double ring on the Fig. 22 means shared responsibility.

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Figure 22. The Integrated Project Delivery Concept. In this system all members of construction process including

the owner work as one firm.

4.5.5. Traditional Design Process

Traditional Design Process (TDP) is a simple linear process without any optimization. The Fig. 23 presents the traditional design process better than words.

Figure 23. Traditional design process. This figure represent enormous amounts of lost time and the potential for

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4.5.6. Integrated Design Process

Integrated Design Process (IDP) involves experts from different sectors at the beginning of design process. This system is gathered the entire multidisciplinary design team in the same time and let them to jointly solve problems from the outset in order to improve the project and to avoid many faults.

Figure 24. Integrated design process. The architect, structural, mechanical, electrical engineers takes on active

roles at early design stages.

In today’s world’s, additionally constructions are submitted to optimization. It is asso-ciated with iterative process. At the beginning of introduce the IDP process, It can generate financial loss in concept design phase. Instead, IDP strategy has more advantages in final bal-ance of profits. Finally IDP will save time and money.

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5. INTEROPERABILITY IN BIM

5.1. Principles of workflow

Workflow has become a bugbear in the BIM worldwide [2]. Separate book can be writ-ten about interoperability. It is really broaden issue, which changes continuously. It is the ability of software tools produced by different vendors to exchange files with model between each other and operate on it. File transfer in BIM technology is done in three different ways: API – Application Programming Interface (direct link), direct native file (direct link) and by open for-mat for data exchange (indirect link).

Direct native file is an authoring tool that works with software from the same vendor. It works on the principle of using two different models – import/export and native file format. In consequences they can open file without any interpreter of database information. This type of workflow should provide an information flow without data loss. This situation can be met in Revit software, such as Revit Architecture, Revit Structure, and Revit MEP.

Direct native file in other words direct link. The link use the application programming interface (API). It is type of automatically connection between two different software interfaces. Each software requires their own combination of API. This interface is implemented typically by programming language, such as C++ or C#. This type of connection occurs between Tekla Structures and Autodesk Robot Structures Analysis. It should work in two directions. In SWECO Company creates code base on C++, which ensures back flow without data loss. In order to ensure workflow without data loss and decrease of repetition work.

Open format for data exchange in other words indirect link such as the CIS/2, SDNF or IFC (Industry Foundation Class). This is the most popular method of transporting data. This method allows to share models from different software, from different vendors. The trans-mission of data by IFC format is connected with the data loss. IFC is one of the most popular and complex open source format. Each tool, which want to use open format file, must be able to export and import model without data loss. Among steel detailer the CIS/2(CIMSteel Integration Standard/version 2) is one of the most popular format used to for information exchange. It is an alternative to IFC. In other sector, the IFC format is more popular and useful. SDNF is a steel detailing neutral format. It is alternative to IFC and works much better with steel construction.

Software from different vendors like Autodesk and Trimble cannot directly exchange model between each other. Models is saved in different native file format by software from dif-ferent vendors. Moreover tools from difdif-ferent vendors have their own definition of objects,

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properties and their own interface of components. In consequences the column created in TS and exported to Revit will be a different a column.

Figure 26. Three different link types to set interoperability.

5.2. Globally Unique Identifier

Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) is a unique number, used to inter alia to identifying objects in BIM software. GUID can compare it to ISBN code on books. It is a code represented by 128 bit number, so it is 32 character combination made up of letters and numbers. GUID number is nearly guaranteed to be unique. Thanks to 32 characters, it provides limitless variety of codes. It is an example of GUID code: 0bf4ab52-159a-4d37-b00d-e423f0cb75a5. Every ob-ject in entire model have own GUID number. This number allows to segregate all items in a huge structure.

5.3. Standard for the Exchange of Model Data

Standard for the Exchange of Model Data (STEP) [S8.] was created by International Standard Organizations (ISO). STEP is an international standard for the computer-interpretable representation and exchange. They define standards for technical exchange of file with model data. ISO-STEP provide the guidelines, requirements, tools, and way to increase interoperabil-ity of different tools. The ISO-STEP technology use the most common file format like IFC, CIS/2 and many other.

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5.3.1. The CIMSteel Integration Standard

The CIMSteel Integration Standards (CIS/2) was developed in Steel Construction Insti-tute in UK and was endorsed by American InstiInsti-tute of Steel Construction. Originally CIS/2 design for construction of steel frame buildings and similar structures. It is based on ISO-STEP software technology. CIS/2 reduces overgrowth work connected with steel design by reduce rework and reduce possibility occurs errors. CIS/2 data file have the *.stp extension and may contain three different types of information: analytical model, drawing model, detail-ing model. This standard is supported by the followdetail-ing programs: Tekla Structures, Revit and Graitec Advance Steel.

5.3.2. The Construction – Operations Building Information Exchange format

The Construction-Operations Building Information Exchange format (COBIE) is the next international format promoted by BuildingSMART. It is well known in UK. CO-BIM originally comes from US. It was developed by NASA in 2006. This standard is designed for non-graphic data exchange (there is no possibility to check model in BIM viewer software, all data is in algorithm format). Moreover it can be generated from IFC file.

5.3.3. BIM Collaboration Format

BIM Collaboration Format (BCF), it is information take-off format. It is used in file to clash detection and reviewed in popular viewer like Solibri or Simplebim®_{. This format}

is proposed by Trimble and Solibri.

BCF is the next open source exchange format supported by BuildingSMART. This standard based on XML schema in order to communicate between BIM tools. It is intended to exchange single part of model. In compare to IFC, which is intended to entire model.

5.3.4. Industry Foundation Class

Industry Foundation Class (IFC) is an international open source exchange format sup-ported by BuildingSMART [S10.]. It is the most completed of open object-based file format. IFC standard defines, how information should be stored and provided throughout building life. IFC format was released by International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI) in 1997. IFC format is assign to BIM technology like DXF format is assign for CAD technology. This standards use STEP [S8.] for product data exchange. The IFC format segregates entire object on the individ-ual categories and elements, with associated classes, properties and attributes. The following elements are distinguished e.g. ifc-Column, ifc-Wall, ifc-Beam, ifc-Slab. Unfortunately there are no semantics for balconies, chimneys and dormers. Fig. 27 presents what happens

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with dormer, skylights and roof when the ifc-Dormer and ifc-Roof are not available. Instead it is systematically changed with the development of IFC e.g. ifc-Chimney is newly introduced in IFC4.

Figure 27. Part A presents the house created in Revit Architecture 2015. Part B presents the house after rendering.

The part C presents the House opened in Tekla BIMsight by IFC format. All skylights and roof are missed.

The test was repeated in ArchiCAD software. In ArchiCAD there is option to select all structural element and create separate model. Additionally in ArchiCAD everything is sent correctly. Skylights, dormers are defined as ifc-Window. Roof and balcony are defined as ifc - Slab. This small change allows to exchange all models without any faults by IFC format. Moreover the render function is more advanced.

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Figure 28. Part A presents the house created in ArchiCAD 18. Part B presents the house after rendering. The part

C presents the House opened in Tekla BIMsight by IFC format. All skylights, balcony and roof are sent properly. The part D presents model which contains only load-bearing elements.

After that individual elements will be sorted according to categories [S10.] shape (ex-plicit), shape (extrusion), shape (topology), building elements, relations between elements, spaces, compartmentation, grids, equipment, furniture, actors, costing, work planes and sched-ules, orders, external data, classification, associated documents, move management, asset iden-tification. Three different categories are distinguished to represent 3D objects. B-rep – Bound-ary representation is a solid body described by planar faces. IFC used this type to complex object such as „ifc-door” or „ifc-windows”. In case of sweep volume all element is described by a cross-section and a path. The path is defined by an axis and an angle. The last type is CSG, which use Boolean operation to create solid bodies.

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Figure 29. The three different categories of representing 3Dobjects in IFC. Extrusion, topology and explicit.

IFC 2x3 TC1 is implemented in all software at the moment. It was released in 2007 by BuildingSMART. The latest version on the market is IFC4 but it is not implemented into the software. The IFC4 standard offers over 800 entities, 358 property sets and 121 data types, specify architectural and structural elements, support libraries. The BuildingSMART is already working on the next version of IFC, named IFC5. The IFC 2x3 TC1 is used in this master thesis. This format allows to exchange data in various ways. That’s why, before transmission the IFC model sender has to determine with the recipient of the information, what kind of information he needs. It is possible thanks to Information Delivery Man-ual (IDM) [S11.]. In practice, it looks like that, the architect designs whole model, with furni-ture, bearing walls, columns and non-bearing partition walls or other architectural elements. Architect should send to structural engineer the IFC-model which contains all relevant infor-mation viz. entire bearing structures. Another standard, which is closely linked with the IFC is International Framework Dictionary (IFD) [S12.]. It provides translations and multilingual properties of IFC. Thanks to IFD a door in France is „Porte” and „Tür” in German. Another advantage is to use metric and imperial units. It ensure interoperability between all kinds of BIM software from all vendors. The version of IFC 2x3 includes facilities to exchange GIS data. GIS data allows to add information about location and information about surrounding buildings. IFC 2x3 standard exists in three different versions: IFC 2x3 Coordination view, which is designed for planning and construction phase. Then the IFC 2x3 designed for structural analysis view. It can transport load bearing elements with loads, load combinations, boundary conditions and materials. The last version is IFC 2x3 for basic FM view for operation phase (model with room boundaries, furniture, equipment, etc.)

Each new standards of IFC provide better results because increases the semantic capa-bilities. The „ifc-Object” can be recursively decomposed by other „ifc-Object”. The chart be-low shows the overall structure of the IFC.

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Figure 30. The architecture diagram of IFC, created on the basis of [W2.].

Layer on the diagram is made from the previous ones. The Domain and interoperability layers are connected with exchange requirements and MVD (Model View Definition). The do-main layer consist of general categories such as electrical, architecture, structural elements or HVAC. The interoperability layers contains common categories of elements e.g. The Shared Building Elements consist of the following elements, such as columns, beams, walls, doors, windows, the Shared Facilities Elements consist of furniture, occupants and assets. The core layer defines liaison of the resource layer with interoperability layer. This is an abstract layer, which is required to define entities not connected with industry. The Kernel can be compared to the bridge, which connecting two layers. The resource layer contains simple element’s prop-erties e.g. cost, geometric, material, profile. Due to huge numbers of entity in IFC standard, the scheme of IFC model is complicated. Each core of subschema has separate construction of entities for specified models. The diagram presents the structure of IFC data. It defines how this standard segregates the data. It can be compare to array command in programming language. That way of code organization allows to memory management.

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Figure 31. An example of creating geometry. The wall is cut by the opening component using the Boolean

differ-ence. After that the window component is located in the gap in the wall.

5.4. IFC data structure

5.4.1. Data structure for concrete slab

The definition of ifc-Slab: „A slab is a component of the construction that normally

encloses a space vertically. The slab may provide the lower support (floor) or upper construc-tion (roof slab) in any space in a building. It shall be noted, that only the core or construcconstruc-tional part of this construction is considered to be a slab. The upper finish (flooring, roofing) and the lower finish (ceiling, suspended ceiling) are considered to be coverings.” [W15.]. More

about the features found on the webpage [W14.].

2016Fleming.pdf

BIM modelling for structural analysis

DECLARATION

ABSTRACT

STRESZCZENIE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ACRONYMS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background

1.2. Purpose

1.3. The Software Description used in dissertation

2. BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING

2.1. Definition

2.2. BIM Maturity Model

3. HISTORY, REGULATIONS AND PARTICIPANTS OF BIM

PRO-CESS

3.1. A Brief History of BIM

3.2. BIM process and 2D, 3D modelling

3.3. Building Information Model Life-Cycle

3.4. Guidelines

3.5. The new participants of the BIM process

4. EXPLANATION THE CONCEPTS CLOSELY RELATED TO BIM

PROCESS

4.1. Geometric and non-geometric information

4.2. Parametric

4.3. Level of Development

4.4. Structural Building Information Modelling

4.5. Project delivery method

5. INTEROPERABILITY IN BIM

5.1. Principles of workflow

5.2. Globally Unique Identifier

5.3. Standard for the Exchange of Model Data

5.4. IFC data structure