BIM2SIM - Method development to create simulation models based on Building Information Modeling data

 

Dynamic simulations in the building energy system sector are an effective tool to predict energy consumption from individual buildings up to entire districts. Thus, different variants of energy generation and distribution systems can be analyzed in the planning phase to reveal potential for optimization.

 

Benefit from the digitization of the construction process

However, there is currently a lack of automation techniques to convert the provided information into simulation models in a cost-effective way. Therefore, the aim of this project is to develop the basic methods and tools to derive directly simulation-ready model descriptions from data models for Building Information Modeling (BIM) for the improved design and optimization of building energy systems in practice. This is intended to significantly reduce the manual effort required for modeling and thus support the dissemination of modern simulation applications in the building sector.

 

The Toolchain

The workflow to be developed as part of the project is shown in Figure 1. The BIM data is loaded in the form of the open data format IFC and, after a model check, is enhanced with stored data if necessary. A general system description is then developed on the basis of the data. This is used to perform HVAC-simulations, thermal building simulations and/or CFD simulations, and to draw up a life cycle assessment. The generated results are then written back into the IFC file. Through the process of building and plant representation as simulation models, a large number of variants can be examined simultaneously in a short time. Therefore, it is also possible to determine an optimized variant with regard to defined target conditions.

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