Parametric Design of Tunnel Segments

Description

A global engineering company specializing in infrastructure design, engaged Modelical to optimize the modelling and documentation process for railway tunnel segments.

Our customer was already working with CAD methodologies and had begun transitioning toward BIM processes, but was seeking a parametric approach to reduce rework and ensure quality in the tunnel segment design process.

The objective of the project was to develop a parameterized workflow that would streamline geometry generation and improve efficiency in detailing, reinforcement modelling, and the production of technical documentation for the segments.

With this purpose, Modelical developed a process integrating parametric design in Grasshopper with structural modelling, reinforcement detailing, and documentation in Tekla Structures. This approach enables the generation of three-dimensional segment models, including setting-out points, details, and reinforcement, as well as the production of the technical documentation required for fabrication.

The project was carried out over two weeks, involving three Modelical engineers working closely with our client’s technical team.

Project Phases:

The project was structured into two main phases:

Analysis and development of the base routine

Modelical analyzed the elements to be modelled and the required documentation for segment design. Following this analysis, a base routine was developed in Grasshopper, defining the parametric geometry of the segments and their reinforcement. In parallel, the Tekla Structures environment was configured for structural modelling and documentation generation.

Training and adaptation of the routine

Once the parametric process was developed, applied training sessions were conducted with the client’s team to enable the use of the developed routines. These sessions also covered basic and advanced modelling, as well as drawing production in Tekla Structures from the parametric model, allowing the routines to be adapted and optimized for real project cases.

Deliverables

The project included the following deliverables:

• Grasshopper parametric routines for segment geometry generation
• Grasshopper parametric routines for reinforcement modelling and detailing
• Tekla Structures environment configuration for modelling
• Grasshopper–Tekla Structures integration
• Technical documentation setup and 2D drawing generation
• Training sessions and hands-on workshops to enable the use and optimisation of the developed routines

Benefits

Prior to implementation, segment design and documentation were carried out in CAD, limiting the rapid evaluation of design alternatives and increasing the risk of rework.

The solution developed by Modelical introduced a parametric approach to the design of these infrastructure components, enabling the parametric generation of three-dimensional models and associated documentation.

Thanks to this new workflow, the time required to define and evaluate design geometry alternatives was reduced by more than 50%.

Additionally, the parameterization of modeling and documentation production directly from the model improves information consistency, reduces errors, and accelerates both the design and production processes for tunnel segments.

Parametric Design for Infrastructure

The application of BIM methodologies and parametric design in infrastructure projects enables the optimization of design processes, improves the quality of technical documentation, and increases efficiency in developing construction solutions.

Modelical supports engineering companies in integrating workflows that combine parametric design, BIM modeling, and process automation, facilitating faster, more reliable, and more efficient analysis and comparison of infrastructure design alternatives—ultimately delivering consistent results in complex infrastructure projects.

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