3D visualization of interpolating geotechnical strata in a BIM environment and estimating the volume

Abstract

As a result of the development occurring recently in the construction industry and
infrastructure development, with respect to the importance of the geotechnical aspect in this field, the
two-dimensional representation unable to develop the complete picture of the soil characteristics.
Therefore, the necessity to create a three-dimensional representation of the soil layers can be
considered as crucial element. The 3D model will provide the required clarity among soil information
in the process of integrating designs between different disciplines. Moreover, it will be facilitating the
work environment and anticipating potential risks which caused previously by lack of information.
This research investigates the process of integrating the information obtained by spatial interpolation
techniques using “GIS” environment in order to divide areas according to construction safety zoning
by transferring the obtained information to a “BIM” environment (Civil3d) and representing soil
layers. The area of study in this research is located in the Tanuma area in Basra Governorate, which
consists of 19 boreholes extending to a depth of 45 meters, including 332 SPT and 360 soil
descriptions. The research relied specifically on SPT values in order to divide the areas according to
OSHA regulations