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Optimization of Reinforced Concrete Beam and Column Sections Design Using a Python-Based Genetic Algorithm Integrated with BIM Parametric Modelling: A Framework for Sustainable Land Development

Emmanuel Ushahemba Orhiiga, Meshach Ileanwa Alfa, John Engbonye Sani

Emmanuel Ushahemba Orhiiga — Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Jos, Nigeria (emmanuelorhiiga@gmail.com)

Meshach Ileanwa Alfa — Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Jos, Nigeria

John Engbonye Sani — Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Conventional reinforced concrete (RC) structural design relies on manual procedures that produce over-designed, resource-intensive structures, driving up construction costs and embodied carbon per unit of developed land. This paper presents a Python-based Genetic Algorithm (GA) integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM) parametric modelling as a unified, automated framework for the optimization of RC beam and column sections design in accordance to Eurocode. The framework employs real-valued GA encoding, penalty-based fitness evaluation, Simulated Binary Crossover (SBX), polynomial mutation, and bidirectional JSON-based data exchange between the optimizer (Python GA engine) and a parametric Autodesk Revit model driven by Dynamo scripting. A four-storey RC framed building serves as the case study, incorporating eleven mixed continuous-discrete design variables and twelve Eurocode-based structural constraints. The primary objective for the optimization is to minimize the cost of construction material subject to the code constraints with structural efficiency and estimated embodied CO₂ monitored as secondary performance metrics. The proposed framework addresses a critical gap identified in the literature: the absence of a transparent, Python-based, bidirectionally integrated BIM-GA system with full design code compliance for RC member optimization. By systematically reducing material consumption per structural element, the framework directly contributes to cost-effective, sustainable land development, particularly relevant to rapidly urbanizing emerging economies where infrastructure construction costs constitute a primary barrier to viable land utilization. The framework is designed for practical deployment using widely accessible tools, enhancing adoption potential in small and medium engineering practices in developing contexts.

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Publication Info

Published in: Vol. 1, No. 1 (2026)

Pages: 258 - 268

DOI: 10.xxxxx/jjaases.2026.7f46f8cb

License: CC-BY-4.0

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Open Access (CC-BY 4.0)

This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License.

Submitted: 10/6/2026

Accepted: 10/6/2026

Published: 10/8/2026

Disclosures

Funding:

No specific funding was declared for this work.

Conflict of Interest:

The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest.