Automation of data transfer between a BIM model and an environmental quality assessment application

Automating the transfer of Building Information Model (BIM) data to assess energy performance is still far from straight forward. The approach of using Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) or Green Building Extensible Modelling Language (gbXML) is only justified if the parametric data is accurate and explicit and if the designers are proficient at console coding. Mapping parameters to rigid schemas and calculating quantities and volumes can be time-consuming and require software engineering knowledge.

Using Action Research Methodology, two student groups investigate methods of data transfer and parametric data derivation. To ensure correct data transfer, we propose an API-based proprietary pre-computation which connects Revit objects and parameters with an Excel-based Indoor Environment Assessment tool (IV20). IV20 is currently under development at Aalborg University, and it serves us as a set of Business Rules, defining required inputs needed for an energy assessment.

This case study focuses on automating features that perform extraction, calculation, and storage of input data, based on a set of predetermined user requirements. Dynamo VPL is used to extract sample information regarding room and element properties, façade orientations, and building surroundings.

We conclude that Revit-Dynamo-Excel (RDE) approach can significantly automate data transfer, but it requires explicitly modelled objects, agreed exchange requirements, and a well-defined and communicated calculation method. Our approach does not eliminate IFC interoperability, but rather enhances the proprietary information advancement, prior to export.