BIM-FEM interoperability for existing masonry buildings: the case study of the Town Hall of Predappio

The integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Finite Element Method (FEM) in structural engineering is gaining popularity for improving building structures' assessment, maintenance, and protection. This integration can lead to better sustainability and higher operational efficiency. The research aims to assess and analyze the case study of the Town Hall of Predappio, a historic masonry building in Italy, to show how the use of a structural information model can be optimized by a structural engineer. The integration of BIM and FEM can improve the accuracy of assessments, rationalize maintenance, and lower operational costs, making it highly relevant for efficient and sustainable building management practices. The thesis paper, after addressing a thorough introduction to the methodologies used, will first cover the case study modeling in Revit and subsequently the importation into PRO_SAP software. The main challenges encountered during the work and all possible solutions adopted during the modeling phase will be discussed, with particular attention given to the data exchange phase between BIM and FEM. Indeed, this interoperability is fundamental to all decisions made. The objective of the thesis is therefore to create an analytical model in PRO_SAP starting from the architectural model in Revit using the IFC data exchange file.