Towards efficient BIM use of geotechnical data from geotechnical investigations

Abstract

The benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the building sector pushed for its use in the geotechnical sector with evident benefits in projects around the world. Standardization, interoperability, and improved data management are some of the benefits of BIM if used on geotechnical data. This work focuses on transforming traditional workflows of handling geotechnical data into a BIM-based workflow that makes geotechnical data available in BIM contexts. For that, a definition of Product Data Template (PDT) for boreholes is proposed. A script is developed using visual programming tools to import data based on PDTs to the BIM platform and translate it into borehole objects. An additional script is used to represent the subsurface layers in 3D. Finally, the interoperability aspects of the information are discussed to ensure proper processes of IFC export/import in this context. Finally, a case study is presented to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed workflow.

From Geotechnical Data to GeoBIM Models: Testing Strategies for an Ex-Industrial Site in Turin

“…Within this framework, this pattern of the results is consistent with the previous literature [7][8][9][10][11]. Whereas previous researchers focused on the development of new integration approaches [12][13][14][15][16][17][18] or on the optimisation of geotechnical investigations through the connection to the BIM environment [24][25][26], the present study shows the possibility of developing a tool that is able to support designers and technicians towards the selection of the most appropriate procedure based on the specific requirements of the project.…”

“…This type of integration would make relevant data available at any stage, and drastically decrease data loss between the two domains. Some studies have analysed the role of BIM in the different phases of geotechnical investigation [24] and proposed methods for optimising the procedures of geotechnical surveys [25,26]. In some studies, investigations for the design and management of civil infrastructures have been performed that incorporate the use of non-destructive survey data, such as Mobile Laser Scanner (MLS), Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) and satellite-based information [27].…”

Integration of Building Information Modeling Interoperability into Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Bridge Substructures

“…More recently, in 2022, the IFC v4.3.0.0 schema was published and is currently under ISO voting ( 12 ). Further, the IFC v4.3.0.0 schema contains numerous enhancements including those pertinent to modeling of bridge substructures (e.g., dedicated elements for soil strata [ 13 ]). Therefore, the IFC v4.3.0.0 schema is adopted for use in the present study and is referred to as IFC 4.3.…”