Schema-less Handover Repository for Construction Data Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
General ETL technologies are inadequate for automating handover processes in engineering and construction projects due to complexities such as large amounts of unstructured information, loosely related data sources, and a significant information modeling gap between design/construction and operation/maintenance systems, making it difficult to define a common schema and requiring deep reconfiguration for each project.
Innovation Solution
A schema-less building information model, known as the Handover Repository, is used with a 2-step script-based transformation process and Information Stitching technology, along with standard exports via COBie and web programming APIs, to manage handover information, eliminating the need for predefined information modeling knowledge and accommodating unique project data structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If general ETL technologies are used for handover automation, then data extraction and loading capabilities are provided, but the system cannot handle unstructured project information, loosely related data sources, and information modeling gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (handover repository with schema-less information model) between the diverse project data sources and the target O/M systems. This intermediary handles the complexity of unstructured data and loose relationships, allowing the ETL system to adapt to various project formats without requiring complex reconfiguration for each project type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of data structure flexibility by using a schema-less information model that can accommodate unstructured project information. This allows the system to handle varying data formats, relationships, and structures from different project sources without being constrained by rigid predefined schemas.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a common schema is defined for ETL processing, then data standardization is achieved, but the system cannot accommodate unique project data structures and owner-specific requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic information model where the schema is not fixed but adapts to the specific project data structures and owner requirements. The system can dynamically adjust the information model to match unique project needs while maintaining data transformation precision through automated scripting and information stitching techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformation process is segmented into two distinct steps: first transforming project data to a semi-normalized handover repository, then transforming from the repository to owner-specific specifications. This segmentation allows each step to handle different requirements independently, maintaining precision while accommodating uniqueness.
3Reliability
If deep reconfiguration of ETL solution is performed for each project, then unique project requirements are met, but the process becomes economically impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal handover repository information model that can serve multiple project types and owner requirements without requiring deep reconfiguration. The schema-less design and automated information stitching enable the system to handle diverse projects reliably while maintaining high productivity through standardized processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing the handover repository with a flexible information model before specific project data processing begins. This preliminary setup enables automated handling of unique project requirements without requiring time-consuming reconfiguration for each project.
4Manufacturing precision
If information modeling knowledge is required to manage transformation, then transformation accuracy is improved, but the system becomes harder to use and operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the automated ETL process handles transformation accuracy internally without requiring users to possess information modeling knowledge. The system automatically performs information stitching and transformation while maintaining accuracy, making it easy to operate for users regardless of their expertise in information modeling.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a technique is provided for automating handover information from project (construction & design) to operation/maintenance. A schema-less repository is defined for holding handover asset objects and governing transformation automation. An information stitching method is defined for multiple-sourced project data integration and incorporating owners' requirement into the repository. A 2-step script-based transformation process is provided to encapsulate information modeling knowledge from a transformation definition.