Automated generation of BIM models from 2D CAD drawings

Abstract

Existing buildings are often lacking BIM models. This paper proposes a method to semi-automate the generation of BIM models from 2D CAD drawings. The method has two parts: The first part, 2D CAD drawing preparation, involves cleaning the drawings to obtain simplified 2D input geometry and the second, 3D BIM model generation, involves generating and extracting parameters to generate 3D BIM components. This research focuses on the semi-automation of the second part. The the model is generated storey by storey, with each building element type being processed. A demonstration was carried out for a case-study building. The main modelling strategies used by the method are described and key challenges are discussed.