Structural analysis and design of a reinforced concrete structure in a multidisciplinary project using OpenBIM

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11606/gtp.v21i1.239754

Keywords:

BIM, IFC, Interoperability

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) enables the virtual modeling of construction, integrating multidisciplinary teams. In Brazil, its adoption by the Federal Government began in 2016 and was formalized by Decree No. 10.306/2020. Due to the need to use open standards, buildingSMART (bSI) has been developing the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) for BIM interoperability. However, there are few studies focusing on the application of structural analysis software. This work involves using an OpenBIM workflow to launch, analyze and design a reinforced concrete structure for a multidisciplinary building, based on an architectural model under development. BIM software was used for analysis and design in the context of Brazilian standards, and BIM software for detailing the structure, both certified by bSI, which made it possible to exchange files in IFC format.  The study took place in a collaborative environment using a Common Data Environment (CDE), where various engineering and architectural disciplines were integrated. The results demonstrated that the use of BIM promoted integration between disciplines. The adoption of BIM software for structural analysis and design provided advantages such as process automation and accuracy of results. However, challenges remain regarding IFC implementation for structural analysis workflows. Due to the complexity of the IFC structure and the limited availability of Model View Definitions (MVDs) focused on structural analysis, further developments are required to support the implementation of IFC 4.3 in commercial software. 

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Author Biographies

  • Isabele Rocha Castellano, Federal University of Viçosa

    Civil Engineer graduated from the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), master's student in Construction Engineering at the same institution, with an emphasis on Building Information Modeling (BIM), Structural Analysis, Interoperability, and Computational Methods applied to Engineering. She has experience in teaching, research, and extension projects focused on the application and dissemination of BIM. She acts as a technical representative for BIM WORKS Brasil, supporting engineering and architecture firms in the implementation of workflows based on OpenBIM principles.

  • Kléos Magalhães Lenz César Junior, Federal University of Viçosa

    He holds a degree in Civil Engineering from the Federal University of Viçosa (1988), a master's degree in Civil Engineering from the Fluminense Federal University (1995), and a doctorate in Civil Engineering from the University of Leeds (2007). He is currently an associate professor at the Federal University of Viçosa. He has experience in the field of Computer Science, with an emphasis on Computer Graphics, working mainly on the following topics: BIM, IFC, parametric modeling, programming language, computer graphics, reinforced concrete, and urban drainage.

  • Márcio Henrique Angelo Charles, Federal University of Viçosa

    Civil Engineer from the Federal University of Viçosa (2023). Currently pursuing a master's degree in Civil Engineering at the Federal University of Viçosa, in the area of Construction Engineering. Has experience in research in the area of Structures, with an emphasis on the Finite Element Method and Structural Mechanics. He has experience in the development of Special Works projects, using BIM methodology.

     

  • José Carlos Lopes Ribeiro, Federal University of Viçosa

    He holds a bachelor's degree (2000) in Civil Engineering from the Federal University of Viçosa, a master's degree (2004) and a doctorate (2009) in Structural Engineering from the Federal University of Minas Gerais. He is currently an Associate Professor at the Federal University of Viçosa and a member of the Graduate Program in Civil Engineering (PPGEC). He has experience in the field of Structures and Materials, with an emphasis on: Structural resistance in fire situations, Behavior of materials in fire situations, Finite element method, and Structural mechanics.

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Published

2026-11-05

Issue

Vol. 21 No. 1 (2026): Edição regular

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Papers

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How to Cite

CASTELLANO, Isabele Rocha; CÉSAR JUNIOR, Kléos Magalhães Lenz; CHARLES, Márcio Henrique Angelo; RIBEIRO, José Carlos Lopes. Structural analysis and design of a reinforced concrete structure in a multidisciplinary project using OpenBIM. Gestão & Tecnologia de Projetos (Design Management and Technology), São Carlos, v. 21, n. 1, p. 75–96, 2026. DOI: 10.11606/gtp.v21i1.239754. Disponível em: https://revistas.usp.br/gestaodeprojetos/article/view/239754. Acesso em: 7 nov. 2026.

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