BIM-based multi-objective optimization framework for volumetric analysis of building projects

Padala, S P S and M Skanda, P (2025) BIM-based multi-objective optimization framework for volumetric analysis of building projects. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 23(5), pp. 1326-1347. ISSN 1726-0531

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a building information modelling (BIM)-based multi-objective optimization (MOO) framework for volumetric analysis of buildings during early design stages. The objective is to optimize volumetric spaces (3D) instead of 2D spaces to enhance space utilization, thermal comfort, constructability and rental value of buildings Design/methodology/approach – The integration of two fundamental concepts – BIM and MOO, forms the basis of proposed framework. In the early design phases of a project, BIM is used to generate precise building volume data. The non-sorting genetic algorithm-II, a MOO algorithm, is then used to optimize extracted volume data from 3D BIM models, considering four objectives: space utilization, thermal comfort, rental value and construction cost. The framework is implemented in context of a school of architecture building project. Findings – The findings of case study demonstrate significant improvements resulting from MOO of building volumes. Space utilization increased by 30%, while thermal comfort improved by 20%, and construction costs were reduced by 10%. Furthermore, rental value of the case study building increased by 33%. Practical implications – The proposed framework offers practical implications by enabling project teams to generate optimal building floor layouts during early design stages, thereby avoiding late costly changes during construction phase of project. Originality/value – The integration of BIM and MOO in this study provides a unique approach to optimize building volumes considering multiple factors during early design stages of a project

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: building information modeling; building volumes; construction schedule management; multiple objective optimization; space utilization
Index terms: construction cost, building information modelling, case study, constructability, construction phase, early design stage, project team, multi-objective optimization, thermal comfort, design phase, building floor, genetic algorithm, integration, methodology
Subjects: data collection methods, financial and cost management, project delivery, construction integration, information systems, environmental engineering, organizational analysis, professional practice, design process, algorithms, research methods, architectural elements
Topics: Research Practice, Cost Management, Design Practice, Digital Applications, Organizational Design, Project Management, Sustainability
Descriptive scope: 4 PCTE

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here