A Framework of Cloud-Computing-Based BIM Service for Building Lifecycle

With the amount increasing, the Building Information Modeling or Building Information Model (BIM) data exchange and sharing face a series of challenges including integration of disparate data models, fast information extraction and data consistency maintenance. Since the existing BIM data storing and transferring method based on neutral files or a centralized database cannot meet the above-mentioned requirements, a framework of distributed BIM service on a private cloud platform was proposed. By this BIM service, multi-stage participants store relevant data on their own servers, which are virtually integrated through a cloud computing (CC) platform to form a logically complete BIM. It supports participants to establish, manage and transfer consistent BIM data efficiently while ensuring data privacy. To achieve this BIM service, a BIM integration and service platform (BIMISP) based on Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and CC was developed. Proved by experiments, the research achievements are useful for improving the efficiency and quality of information extraction and delivery, ensuring the safety and legality of data sharing during building lifecycle.