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A Review of BIM Maturity for Tensile

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Conference Paper August 2015

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 Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS)
Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions
17 - 20 August 2015, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

A Review of BIM Maturity for Tensile Membrane

Architecture
Eve S. LIN*, Robert ROITHMAYRa, Simon K. CHIU*b,

*Tensile Evolution North America, Inc.

3121 Michelson Dr., Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
eve@tensileevolution.com
a
Tensile Evolution GmbH
b
School of Architecture, University of Southern California

Abstract
In order to advance technology in the field of tensile membrane architecture, and to embrace the benefits
of Building Information Modeling (BIM), the objective of this paper is to establish a benchmark for
future development by reviewing the software tools specifically for the design and analysis of tensile
membrane architecture. The paper first synthesizes the definition of general BIM maturity levels,
followed by a review of the seven most commonly used software programs that specialize in tensile
membrane design. Finally, the BIM maturity level across the field of tensile membrane architecture is
examined followed by a discussion of future steps in the development of these technologies.

Keywords: tensile membrane architecture, building information modeling, design technology, BIM
maturity level, design integration.

1. Introduction
Over the last decade Building Information Modeling (BIM) has taken over as the new computer aided
design (CAD) paradigm in the industries of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) for both
professional and academic settings [38]. BIM is a broad term that encompasses a combination of tools,
processes and technologies for a complete digital representation of a buildings geometry, performance,
planning, construction and operation [16]. Improved design quality [32], reduced construction costs [2],
and enhanced facility management [42] are recognized benefits, making BIM the preferred form of
project delivery standards. In addition, BIM provides an information enriched environment for
predicting building performance in order to achieve sustainability throughout the buildings lifecycle
[19]. Moreover, it is also reported as an effective means to facilitate AEC education [30].
With the maturation of digital tools for form-finding and patterning tensile membrane architecture, now
is the time to better incorporate BIM into the design process and thereby increase the implementation
and quality of tensile membrane architecture. While the advancement of computational technologies
makes the form-finding process easier than ever before, the aforementioned benefits of BIM are rarely
realized in this field due to a lack of streamlining between existing tools. Consequently, the current
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

application of BIM in tensile membrane architecture is merely for geometric representation as part of
project delivery.
To this end, the first objective of this paper is to synthesize the general perceived BIM maturity
measurement. From there the BIM maturity level of the currently available digital tools that specialized
for tensile membrane architecture design can be measured. By comparing the capabilities of these tools
with the general perceived BIM maturity measurement, current gaps and future development of the
tensile membrane design technologies can be identified and improved upon. Thus, the results of this
paper can serve as the basis for future technological development of tensile membrane architecture
towards higher BIM maturity level.

2. BIM Maturity Measure

In order to accurately gauge the potential of BIM technologies in tensile membrane architecture, it is
important to have a clear understanding of the definitions of BIM and the measurements of BIM
maturity levels. Due to its potential to streamline all aspects of Architecture, Engineering, and
Construction, BIM has become a buzzword in the AEC industry in reference to the most advanced
technologies in design, construction and management processes. This BIM Wash phenomena is
gaining prevalence due to confusion, inexperience, or exaggeration of actual BIM competency [40], as
well as the absence of unilateral definition of the standards and practices of BIM. As defined by
Eastman, et al. [16], BIM is used to describe tools, processes and technologies that are facilitated by
digital, machine-readable documentation about a building, its performance, its planning, its
construction, and later its operation. BIM should facilitate team collaboration and support all the
activities throughout a buildings lifecycle, not just relate to a specific segment of the process [39]
(Figure 1). A main focus of this paper, therefore, is to evaluate the technological development of the
tools by first establishing a standard to relate the differing levels of BIM maturity.
Several organizations and authorities provide guidance and standards for measuring the maturity of the
BIM implementation among an organization or specific project, but none are all-inclusive. Pennsylvania
State University, for example, developed the Organizational BIM Assessment which measures BIM
maturity based on strategy, process, information, infrastructure and personnel [11]. Alternatively, the
National BIM Standard (NBIMS), provides a Capability Maturity Model (CMM) for stakeholders to
plot current BIM implementation performance and plan future BIM implementation goals [27]. There
are also some web-based BIM performance assessment tools, such as bimSCORE [37] and BIMe [9].
Recently, Ove Arup & Partners lunched their BIM Maturity Measure to assess their own internal BIM
implementation based on 2D documentation, 3D visualization, 4D (time) and 5D (cost) analysis, and
facility management [1, 15]. These varying BIM assessment matrixes indicate that the successful
implementation of BIM relies not only on the tools and technologies used, but also on the competency
of users, teams, and the organization [39].
This research relies on a synthesis of the two most well-known matrices, both of which relate to the
level of collaboration and technological sophistication throughout the building process. The most widely
understood BIM maturity matrix is that of Mervyn Richards and Mark Bew [5], which has four different
BIM maturity levels from Level 0 to Level 3 (Figure 2). Additionally, a classification of BIM 1.0 to
BIM 3.0 (used by Neeley [29], Bernstein and Jezyk [4], and Underwood and Isikdag [43]) was
incorporated. While the descriptions of each of these maturity levels are slightly different, they
nonetheless illustrate the same expectations regarding the functionality and required components for
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

each BIM competency/performance level. Therefore, the synthesized definition of each maturity level
utilized in this research is described below:

Figure 1: Illustration of the scope of Building Information Modeling. Image by the authors.

1. BIM Level 0 The use of traditional 2D CAD files for information documentation without
semantic association between each object.
2. BIM Level 1 The use of managed 2D or 3D models composed of objects with semantic
association between each other. Attaining this level requires object-based modeling with 3D
visualization, synchronized 2D representations, and the capability for file-based collaboration.
Data integration is lacking.
3. BIM Level 2 The use of managed 3D environments held in separate disciplines for cross-
analysis and collaboration. Individual BIM applications for specific purposes are implemented
by unique expert domains (i.e. architectural BIM and structural BIM). Integration between
disciplines is achieved through proprietary interfaces or middleware. This level supports
model-based collaboration, file-based integration and library management. Special file
exchange formats and input/output standards are needed to manage the information among
different disciplines. Additionally, time and cost can become a factor. 4D scheduling and 5D
cost estimation become part of the evaluation capability. This is also the level at which
parameterization and scripting functionalities can play a role in design analysis.
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

4. BIM Level 3 Full data integration enabled through web services compliant with the emerging
IFC/IFD standards managed by a collaborative model server. At this level, the information can
support all areas throughout the buildings lifecycle. Up-to-date open information is distributed
among different expert domains within the project to derive new information needed for design
progression across multiple fields. To achieve this level, technologies need to include cloud
computing, sensor networks, stateless web services, and a semantic web [13]. This level is
known as Integrated BIM (iBIM).

Figure 2: Illustration of Building Information Modeling Maturity Levels. The image is re-diagramed
and synthesized by the authors by referencing Neeley [29], Bernstein and Jezyk [4], and the original
BIM maturity level diagram of Bew and Richards.

BIM Level 1 is now the mainstream in the AEC industry for analysis and simulation [4]. Based on the
most recent report by NBS [28], 59 % of the response indicates that their highest BIM level is Level 2
in 2014. Efforts around the globe are continuingly striving towards the ultimate potential of BIM,
however; the BIM maturation of tensile membrane architecture field seems to be developing at a slower
pace by comparison due to its the unique needs for form-finding, static analysis, and patterning
capabilities. As a result, the objective of the research is to review the current technologies used
specifically for tensile membrane architecture to further discuss the future of adopting BIM in the field.
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

3. Computational Design Tools for Tensile Membrane Architecture

Although all structures follow five conventional phases throughout the building lifecycle: (1) schematic
design, (2) design development, (3) construction documentation, (4) operation and maintenance, and
(5) renovation or demolition (Figure 1), the process of designing tensile membrane architecture
encompasses three additional steps: form-finding, load analysis, and patterning [3, 21, 33]. (Figure 3).
These extra steps are needed to address the nonlinear behavior of the form/force interaction unique to
tensile membrane architecture. In addition to form-finding, the deflection from imposed loads needs to
be considered. Lastly, specific patterning processes are needed to translate the three-dimensional
membrane surface into two-dimensional panels for manufacturing [8, 20]. Therefore form-finding, load
analysis and patterning are the primary focus of software programs that specialize in tensile structures.
The following is a brief review of the seven commonly used tools that address the specific needs of
tensile membrane design. A summary of the comparison can be found in Table 1.

Contractors & others

Requirements
Construction

Architects

Conception Manufacturing

Formfinding Detailing

Non-automated
Process
Analysis Cutting pattern
Computer-based
Process Engineers

Figure 3: Design process of the tensile membrane architecture. Image re-diagramed by the authors by
referencing Snchez, et al. [33].

3.1 Easy
Easy [41] is a tool for engineering lightweight surface structures. The suite is comprised of five main
modules. Each module focuses on a specific task: form-finding, structural analysis utilizing the Finite
Element Method (FEM), pattern generation, beam structure analysis, and pneumatic structure
calculation. As a standalone solution, Easy provides information of precise material laws, non-leaner
calculation, and optimization of cutting patterns. It also supports output files for use with RSTAB [14]
for further structural analysis. However, it offers limited geometric interoperability with other CAD
programs (only DWG/DXF format). There is no further reported interoperability to other BIM authoring
tools. As the target users are engineers, the user interface is not conducive to front-end concept
generation by architects. To mitigate this shortcoming its developers, technet GmbH, partnered with
Formfinder Software GmbH [17] to provide an architectural platform for form generation.
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

3.2 Formfinder
Formfinders [17] strength is assisting the preliminary design process via an intuitive interface that
accurately and seamlessly calculates force and stress. It can export/import DXF/DWG formats, and it
also benefits from engineering integration with the Easy suite. Additionally, it offers sunshade and rain
projection analysis. A Rhino 3D plugin raises Formfinders BIM maturity level as it can facilitate design
interaction by utilizing conventional architectural design platforms. The underlying philosophy of
Formfinder is to bypass the overwhelmingly complex computational procedure of engineering tensile
membrane architecture and allow architects to focus on the design and performance of their structures
[17]. To this end, graphical manipulation is its strongest unique attribute, enabling exploration by those
unfamiliar with dynamic force equations while still providing an accurate model for a tensile membrane
structure. As such, it is a valuable creative and educational tool.

3.3 ixCube 4-10

ixCube 4-10 [12] is an engineering platform which builds upon ixForten 4000 to address tensile
structures. Similar to other membrane engineering solutions, it provides a list of comprehensive
functionalities to support tensile membrane architecture design, including form-finding, FEM structural
analysis, material database, and cutting pattern generation. It supports EuroCode and British Standard
steel design. In addition, its embedded JavaScript engine facilitates scripting and customization for
parametric detailing. Regarding integrated design analysis, ixCube 4-10 provides Finite Element
Analysis (FEA) integration with various third party packages, as well as an integration solution for
Rhino and AutoCAD. It also offers an integration solution for Caedium Fluid Flow Solver for Advanced
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. While the maturity of these integrations have not been
reported and its usability is concerning, ixCube 4-10 is by far the most integrated support tool among
the technologies reviewed [44].

3.4 MPanel
MPanel [25] operates as a toolbar within AutoCAD or Rhino for use by AEC professionals and
academics. The strength of the tool is that it helps designers rapidly explore 3D mesh and develop a feel
for the structure interactively. It also provides the paneling functions for production and fabrication
stages. It shortens the time required for design and analysis iteration and enable the design exploration
for novice user [35]. It features additional modules to perform structural finite element analysis and to
arrange the panels for minimum material usage. However, more sophisticated structural analysis is
lacking. Once the design of the tensile membrane components is done, the progression to other BIM
authoring tools are still limited to geometric information. There is also no support regarding material
library, construction management or cost estimation at this point.

3.5 Membrane NDN

Membrane NDN [6] is a comprehensive FEM software package developed specifically for tensile
membrane engineers to create, analyze and visualize their design within the tool [6, 7, 34]. It includes
all the required engineering needs to realize the design and optimization of membrane, cable, and steel
structural systems. The function-specific working environment and videogame style user interface
simplifies the process. There are a total of eight working environments in NDN, including set up,
modeling, shape, property, load, analysis, post, and pattern. It can also generate and optimize cutting
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

patterns for membrane fabrication. However, from a BIM maturity standpoint, it only offers limited
geometric interoperability. There is no indication regarding collaboration and integration with other
platforms to support construction management, cost estimation, or other analytic functions.

3.6 Patterner
Patterners [31] strength is pattern creation for design and production drawings of 3D surfaces. 3D mesh
manipulation makes it useful for building complex 3D forms from sheet materials. While there are
parameter inputs during the form generation process, they are only geometrical functions, not force
functions. It is touted as an easy solution for the design and manufacture of tensile membrane structures
[31]. But while its interface is fairly simple, the user interaction is not as intuitive when compared to
other architecture design programs; all geometries must be defined through a series of parameter input
dialogs. In addition, the tool only offers geometric output as *.dxf, *.wrl, or *.plt file formats, and its
material parameters are limited to geometrical relaxation and are not representative on an actual
membrane material library.

3.7 TensileDraw
TensileDraw [24] is a 3D membrane modeling plug-in to configure tensile membrane geometry within
AutoCAD and Rhino. Basic parameter inputs are needed to set up the desired form, such as warp and
weft direction and offsets, force cables, and other calculation parameters. It follows a step-by-step
process: (1) defining boundaries, (2) mesh generation and (3) form-finding. The resulting output is
limited to geometric representation. Although TensileDraw can facilitate a dialogue between client,
architect, and engineer, there are no published reports found regarding calculation accuracy or
integration method during the design process.

Table 1: The comparison of seven software tools specialized for tensile membrane architecture
Other features
Force / Stress
Consideration
Form-finding

Target User
FEA / FEM

Integration
Cutting
Pattern
Design
Tools

DXF/DWG
Easy Engineer Pneumatic structure
Formfinder, RSTAB
DXF/DWG
Formfinder Architect
Rhino Plugin, Easy
CFD, Scripting, material
Rhino/AutoCAD
ixCube 4-10 Engineer database, Code Compliance
Caedium Fluid Solver
steel design
MPanel Phino/AutoCAD Not Specified
NDN DXF/DWG Engineer
Patterner MEM, DXF/DWG/WRL Not Specified
TensileDraw Rhino/AutoCAD Plug-in Not specified
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

4. Discussion of the Future Development & Potential

The tools reviewed fall within BIM Leve1 1 across the board according to the BIM maturity matrix
established in this paper. 3D visualization and preliminary analysis is standard, but there is a significant
lack of file sharing, material library support, and design collaboration mechanisms required to raise
maturity to BIM Level 2, and beyond. Each software presents strengths and weaknesses, and no solution
boasts total integration and end-to-end support. Consequently, these lead to opportunities to greatly
improve the technology by incorporating mechanisms for lean construction and higher environmental
and lifecycle performance. The following discusses avenues to increase BIM maturity for tensile
membrane architecture tools.

4.1 User-friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface is the fundamental criteria for any computational program. The usability of
software relies on the design of the user interface (UI) and how it facilitates user interaction within the
working environment. A better UI can increase BIM competency by facilitating the design process
across the AEC spectrum. Current tools for tensile membrane design tend to be engineering-oriented,
making concept generation and manipulation difficult for those who lack an engineering background.
The tools reviewed in this paper all exhibit a different UI philosophy from parameter input to graphical
manipulation. Ultimately, an effective tool should be able to provide design guidance while ensuring
the constructability of the design without limiting creativity during the process. Measuring the usability
and user-friendliness of one technique over another is still a research topic in and of itself.

4.2 Interoperability, Design Integration & Collaboration

Current computational tools for tensile membrane design focus solely on solving the specific needs of
tensile membrane design: form-finding, static analysis and patterning. Material properties and analytical
attributes are only stored within each standalone application, and are not transferable to other design
platforms or BIM authoring tools. This results in interoperability limited to geometric representations
solely to support design documentation. This is a major barrier to embracing broader BIM potential (to
be discussed further). In addition, team collaboration early in the project is critical for tensile membrane
architecture. The means and methods to facilitate team collaboration needs to be equally available to
clients, architects and other expert domains. Currently, it is possible to utilize third party platforms for
project collaboration, however; these collaboration platforms only support post-analyzed, geometric
components. Defining the tensile membrane structure within the IFC format is also a mandate for tensile
membrane technology to progress towards BIM maturity Level 3.

4.3 Knowledge Database & Intelligence

Although each software claims intelligent form-finding capabilities, the found models can only be
exported for 3D representation with no other associated attributes, such as material properties or stress
level tolerance. Only ixCube 4-10 and Formfinder incorporate material properties, though their material
libraries are limited. These attributes are not associated with the resulting geometric model and therefore
cannot be transferred, used, or stored in other platforms for further documentation or simulation. In
order to enable the cost estimation, lifecycle analysis, or other environmental analysis throughout the
building lifecycle, the objects need to be associated with data-rich attributes.
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

4.4 4D, 5D to nD Simulation

The benefits of current BIM technology are its ability to conduct construction simulation, clash
detection, cost estimation and logistics planning. However, none of the reviewed tools specialized for
tensile membrane design directly supports these features. These capabilities are especially important for
tensile membrane architecture since many reported failures occur during the delivery and installation
process [26]. The assembly process, too, is an essential step to be considered during the detailing stage
so as to ensure the quality and durability of the corner details, and thus the overall structure [18]. The
availability of these integrated features can be expected to increase the quality of the overall design and
lead to better construction and cost management of tensile membrane projects. The concept can also be
applied to simulating sustainability and life cycle performance (6D), as well as for a buildings operation
and facility management (7D). But, to be able to achieve these capabilities, the intelligently integrated
data-rich model is the fundamental requirement and needs to be established first.

4.5 Streamlining Design Analysis Process

Streamlining the design analysis process is a major challenge not only for tensile membrane architecture
but for all types of building design. Closing the performance feedback loop between design and various
analytic domains has been an important topic among AEC research and practice [22]. It is even more
challenging for tensile membrane architecture to close the feedback loop given its complex geometry
and unique material properties [10]. Since pursuing sustainability and a high performing built
environment has become imperative, the ability to access these performance assessments (i.e. structural,
thermal, acoustical, and energy performance) early in the design process is critical. In order to achieve
this, the previously mentioned interoperability and knowledge-based library needs to be established
first. The material library, too, must be enriched with the inclusion of physical properties for design
analysis. Furthermore, the ability to effectively simulate and evaluate the performance of these
dramatically complex forms must be sought out. When design analysis becomes streamlined, it is then
possible to utilize parameterization, platform integration, and multi-objective optimization algorithms
with cloud computing functionality to quickly generate design solutions and identify the best
compromise given the design objectives [23].
In addition to raising environmental performance, streamlining design analysis is vital to advancing
specific critical elements, such as corner detailing. Analyzing the relationship between shape,
performance and materials in the makeup of the corner assembly is crucial because the long-term
performance of the corner detail determines the integrity of the entire structure. Addressing this issue is
one of the top remaining challenges specific to tensile membrane architecture [36].

5. Conclusion
This paper reviews the current tools specialized for the tensile membrane field. Due to the
specific needs of tensile membrane architecture, none of the reviewed tools provide an
integrated data-rich platform for analysis, collaboration and simulation. While sluggish
technological development seems discouraging, the potential for tensile membrane
architecture to cultivate a higher performing built environment is promising. The lightweight,
translucent, and flexible nature of tensile membrane architecture has vast implications for
improving building performance. As an emerging design medium, it also enables a wide range
Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium 2015, Amsterdam
Future Visions

of dynamically unique forms for design creativity. By continuingly striving to elevate the BIM
maturity level, tensile membrane architecture will be more accessible to design professionals
and contribute to a more dynamic, higher performing built environment.

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