What research areas are most promising for BIM in structural engineering?

1 BIM and structural optimization

One of the research areas for BIM in structural engineering is how to use BIM to optimize the structural design and performance of a building. Structural optimization is the process of finding the best solution for a structural problem, such as minimizing the material cost, weight, or environmental impact, while satisfying the structural requirements and constraints. BIM can facilitate structural optimization by providing a rich data model, a parametric design environment, and an integrated analysis platform. BIM can also enable the use of advanced optimization methods, such as genetic algorithms, artificial neural networks, or machine learning, to explore the design space and generate optimal solutions.

2 BIM and structural health monitoring

Another research area for BIM in structural engineering is how to use BIM to monitor the structural health and performance of a building during its lifecycle. Structural health monitoring (SHM) is the process of collecting, processing, and analyzing data from sensors and instruments installed on a structure, to detect, locate, and quantify damage, deterioration, or anomalies. BIM can enhance SHM by providing a digital twin of the structure, a data management system, and a visualization tool. BIM can also enable the integration of SHM data with other information sources, such as design, construction, and operation data, to create a comprehensive and dynamic picture of the structural condition and performance.

3 BIM and structural resilience

A third research area for BIM in structural engineering is how to use BIM to enhance the structural resilience of a building. Structural resilience is the ability of a structure to withstand, adapt to, and recover from extreme events, such as earthquakes, floods, fires, or blasts. BIM can support structural resilience by providing a multi-hazard analysis platform, a risk assessment framework, and a decision support system. BIM can also enable the incorporation of resilience strategies, such as redundancy, robustness, ductility, or adaptability, into the structural design and operation.

4 BIM and structural innovation

A fourth research area for BIM in structural engineering is how to use BIM to foster structural innovation and creativity. Structural innovation is the process of developing new or improved structural concepts, technologies, or solutions, that address the current and future needs and challenges of the built environment. BIM can stimulate structural innovation by providing a collaborative and interdisciplinary platform, a generative design tool, and a performance evaluation tool. BIM can also enable the adoption of emerging technologies, such as additive manufacturing, smart materials, or digital fabrication, that can transform the structural design and construction.

5 BIM and structural education

A fifth research area for BIM in structural engineering is how to use BIM to improve the structural education and training of the current and future engineers. Structural education is the process of acquiring the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to practice structural engineering in a professional and ethical manner. BIM can enhance structural education by providing a realistic and interactive learning environment, a project-based and problem-based learning approach, and a feedback and assessment system. BIM can also enable the integration of theory and practice, the exposure to real-world scenarios, and the development of soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, or leadership.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?