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BIM data model requirements for asset monitoring and the circular economy

Juan Manuel Davila Delgado (Big Data Enterprise and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Bristol Business School, University of the West of England Bristol, Bristol, UK)
Lukumon O. Oyedele (Big Data Enterprise and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Bristol Business School, University of the West of England Bristol, Bristol, UK)

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology

ISSN: 1726-0531

Article publication date: 24 April 2020

Issue publication date: 26 August 2020

679

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review and provide recommendations to extend the current open standard data models for describing monitoring systems and circular economy precepts for built assets. Open standard data models enable robust and efficient data exchange which underpins the successful implementation of a circular economy. One of the largest opportunities to reduce the total life cycle cost of a built asset is to use the building information modelling (BIM) approach during the operational phase because it represents the largest share of the entire cost. BIM models that represent the actual conditions and performance of the constructed assets can boost the benefits of the installed monitoring systems and reduce maintenance and operational costs.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a horizontal investigation of current BIM data models and their use for describing circular economy principles and performance monitoring of built assets. Based on the investigation, an extension to the industry foundation classes (IFC) specification, recommendations and guidelines are presented which enable to describe circular economy principles and asset monitoring using IFC.

Findings

Current open BIM data models are not sufficiently mature yet. This limits the interoperability of the BIM approach and the implementation of circular economy principles. An overarching approach to extend the current standards is necessary, which considers aspects related to not only modelling the monitoring system but also data management and analysis.

Originality/value

To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first study that identifies requirements for data model standards in the context current linear economic model of making, using and disposing is growing unsustainably far beyond the finite limits of planet of a circular economy. The results of this study set the basis for the extension of current standards required to apply the circular economy precepts.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to gratefully acknowledge the EPSRC and Innovate UK for funding this research under grant 102061, application number: 44746 – 322224.

Citation

Davila Delgado, J.M. and Oyedele, L.O. (2020), "BIM data model requirements for asset monitoring and the circular economy", Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, Vol. 18 No. 5, pp. 1269-1285. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEDT-10-2019-0284

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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