A Linked Data Framework for IFC-Based Exchange of Dynamic Building Operational Data

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

Abstract

The exchange of data generated during the operations and maintenance (O&M) phase of buildings is frequently impeded by opaque data structures, the absence of standardized exchange formats, and insufficient data quality. Although Building Information Modeling (BIM) is well established in the design and construction phases, its adoption in building operations remains limited. Operational data, particularly energy-related and sensor-generated information, are inherently dynamic and are predominantly exchanged through proprietary systems. This paper presents a vendor-neutral approach for integrating and exchanging dynamic operational data within IFC- based digital building twins. Based on a conceptual literature review, a proof of concept is developed that combines Semantic Web technologies, a graph database, and a time-series database. A static IFC-SPF model is converted to RDF using ifcOWL and stored in a graph database; sensor time series persisted in a time-series database and linked to building components via identification keys. A purpose-built export algorithm incorporating a Python-based EXPRESS parser consolidates static and dynamic data into a single, valid IFC-SPF file. Validation was performed using the buildingSMART validation tools. The prototypical demonstration establishes a bidirectional, software- independent exchange of dynamic operational data, thereby enhancing interoperability, transparency, and data quality in FM.

Authors 3

1. Fynn Korsen

   TH Köln - University of Applied Sciences

   Affiliation as printed

   Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Technology, University of Applied Sciences Köln, Germany

2. Niels Bartels

   TH Köln - University of Applied Sciences

   Affiliation as printed

   Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Technology, University of Applied Sciences Köln, Germany

3. Shervin Rahnama Aachen chair Institute of Construction Management

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair and Institute of Construction Management, Digital Engineering and Robotics in Construction, RWTH Aachen University, Germany