Integration Of Real Time Pile Design By Means Of Building Information Modeling-Paper

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The paper presents a parametric, BIM-integrated method for geotechnical pile design, demonstrated using Autodesk Revit and Dynamo. Unlike conventional workflows, where pile calculations are performed in separate software and BIM models are created separately, the proposed approach carries out design analysis directly within the shared 3D model.<br /><br />The workflow first builds a soil model from borehole and cone penetration test (CPT) data. Scripts generate and update soil-layer geometries, while allowing geotechnical experts to refine the model and assess uncertainties. Parametric pile objects then combine geometry, loading, and soil information. Dynamo scripts calculate ultimate and serviceability limit-state utilization in accordance with DIN EN 1997-1 and EA-Pfähle 2012. Results are reported and visualized on individual piles and across the foundation system, with changes to geometry or model inputs producing rapid feedback. The calculations were checked against GGU AXPILE and produced identical results for the tested cases.<br /><br />Integrating analysis with BIM reduces duplicate modeling and data loss, supports evaluation of complex three-dimensional soil conditions and interactions between piles, and makes design alternatives easier to compare. The authors also demonstrate optimization of pile diameter and length using cost and CO₂ emissions as criteria, with potential to include additional factors such as constructability and pile-group effects.<br /><br />The approach is promising for more efficient, transparent, and multi-criteria geotechnical design, but it has limitations. Soil models may require manual refinement, especially in heterogeneous ground, and expert judgment remains essential for evaluating uncertainty and data quality. Developing and validating scripts requires programming effort, making the approach less economical for smaller firms or one-off projects. Wider practical adoption will require validated tools for different geotechnical components and standardized modeling conventions.

Keywords

BIM-integrated geotechnical design

pile design

Autodesk Revit

Dynamo scripting

soil model

borehole data

cone penetration test

DIN EN 1997-1

EA-Pfähle 2012

multi-criteria optimization