Research on the Transformation of BIM models to FEM models Using SAT Files

BIM has high efficiency in modeling complex structures but lacks sufficient capabilities for model calculation and analysis. In contrast， FEM provides strong computational and analytical functions but is less efficient in modeling complex geometries. Considering that Revit software has the advantages of 3D visualization and parametric modeling but lacks the functions of calculation and analysis， while ABAQUS offers powerful finite element calculation and analysis but suffers from low modeling efficiency for complex irregular models， this paper proposes a method for transforming BIM models to FEM models. This approach effectively combines the advantages of 3D visualization and powerful finite element calculation of the two tools. The proposed method involves reading model data from Revit， exporting it as a SAT file， and importing it into ABAQUS to generate an InP file， thereby achieving model data conversion using the SAT format. Through the development and practice in an actual subway interval shield tunneling project involving underpassing bridge piles， the results show that using SAT data files can greatly improve the efficiency of building complex structural models in geotechnical finite element analysis. The improvement is particularly notable for projects requiring repeated modeling and calculation analysis， underscoring the method’s important reference value for engineering practice.