Otimização da avaliação da sustentabilidade do ciclo de vida (ASCV) integrada à modelagem da informação da construção (BIM): proposta de método para tomada de decisão em estudos preliminares de infraestrutura viária urbana

Abstract

This thesis proposes an approach that integrates three main elements: i) Building Information Modeling (BIM); ii) Operations Research (OR); and iii) Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA). To date, no methods have been identified in the literature that optimize BIM projects based on LCSA, highlighting the originality of this research. The thesis is composed of three articles (Chapters 2, 3, and 4). The first article identifies methods that use computational optimization to integrate OR and LCSA. The second article explores the application of optimization methods in developing infrastructure projects in BIM. The third article proposes an LCSA optimization method integrated with BIM as a decision-making tool for preliminary studies of urban infrastructure layouts. The development of the method included creating an initial conceptual model that is notable for enabling the application of BIM at an urban scale, transforming into City Information Modeling (CIM) when integrated with a Geographic Information System (GIS) in an urban context. The conceptual model strictly follows ISO 19650 guidelines and incorporates the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) phases established in ISO 14040 and 14044, adapted for LCSA, covering Environmental LCA, Social LCA, and Life Cycle Costing (LCC). The proposed model is sufficiently flexible to incorporate new demands and life cycle phases, allowing the project to retain BIM characteristics for infrastructure after the preliminary study definition. For method design, three tools were tested: Trimble Quantm, Softree Optimal (Path Explorer AI), and Autodesk InfraWorks, with the latter considered the most suitable for final development. Optimal solutions are generated through a computational optimization tool integrated into the CIM software. Results for each sustainability aspect are calculated separately, allowing detailed interpretation and selection of the final solution. As part of the practical application of the method, the continuous use of LCSA is recommended to monitor costs and environmental and social impacts in phases following the preliminary study. The method was validated through a controlled experiment using both real and simulated data for testing, with results compared to an existing project, and a questionnaire conducted in an interview with a specialist and a potential user. Method limitations are outlined in the conclusions; however, it has significant potential for immediate application by specialists. The approach is structured to allow professionals in the field to use the method practically and effectively. This immediate applicability is a distinguishing factor, facilitating implementation in the market and public administration, promoting more sustainable and informed decisions from the outset of planning. Furthermore, the findings of this research can support software developers in incorporating environmental and social aspects into their tools, promoting more comprehensive infrastructure solutions that align with current sustainable urban planning demands.