Multi-BIM Interface Using Semantic Linking for Building Data

Solution Overview

Problem

Configuring building information models (BIMs) is a time-consuming process, and existing BIM software has limitations such as allowing manipulation and presentation of only one BIM file at a time, making it difficult for users to understand and manage complex building data effectively.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that link data from multiple BIM files using a semantic description schema, such as the Brick schema, to concurrently present a unified 3D model of a building, allowing users to select a base file and map BIM objects to a building automation system (BAS), thereby generating a hierarchy structure and presenting thermal or energy consumption data within a single user interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If multiple BIM files are manually configured and managed separately, then data completeness and accuracy improve, but time consumption and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebuilding data completenessVSAvoidconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple BIM files into a single unified interface, allowing simultaneous viewing and management of multiple building models. The system loads and displays multiple BIM files (e.g., architectural, structural, MEP models) in one interface, eliminating the need to switch between separate files and reducing configuration time while maintaining data completeness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides multi-functional capabilities by enabling users to manage multiple BIM files, apply semantic schemas, generate hierarchy structures, and view 3D models all within a single platform. This universal interface handles diverse BIM file types and operations, reducing the need for multiple specialized tools and decreasing overall configuration time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Loss of information

If multiple BIM files are manually configured and managed separately, then data completeness and accuracy improve, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebuilding data completenessVSAvoiduser accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple BIM files into a single unified interface, allowing simultaneous viewing and management of multiple building models. The system loads and displays multiple BIM files (e.g., architectural, structural, MEP models) in one interface, eliminating the need to switch between separate files and reducing configuration time while maintaining data completeness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces a semantic description schema (e.g., Brick schema) as an intermediary layer that standardizes and harmonizes data from multiple BIM files. This schema acts as a mediator that translates different BIM file formats and structures into a unified representation, making it easier for users to access and understand building data without dealing with file-specific complexities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If BIM software allows manipulation of only one BIM file at a time, then system complexity remains manageable, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesoftware complexityVSAvoidmulti-BIM file capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides multi-functional capabilities by enabling users to manage multiple BIM files, apply semantic schemas, generate hierarchy structures, and view 3D models all within a single platform. This universal interface handles diverse BIM file types and operations, reducing the need for multiple specialized tools and decreasing overall configuration time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements segmentation by allowing users to selectively load, display, and manage individual BIM files or portions of BIM files within the unified interface. Users can control which BIM files are active and how they are displayed, dividing the complex task of managing multiple files into manageable segments while maintaining overall system versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12099334B2Systems and methods for presenting multiple BIM files in a single interface

Publication Date: 2024.09.24 TYCO FIRE & SECURITY GMBH

AI summary

A system includes one or more memory devices having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations including obtaining a first building information model (BIM) file associated with a building, the building comprising one or more building assets, obtaining a second BIM file associated with the building, linking data from the first BIM file to data from the second BIM file, and concurrently presenting, via a single user interface, a representation of at least a portion of the first BIM file and the second BIM file based on the linked data.