In the bustling world of construction and facility management, a new tool is emerging that promises to revolutionize how buildings are maintained and operated. Researchers, led by Cheng Guo from Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China, have developed a Building Information Modeling (BIM)-based system that integrates data from design, construction, and operation phases, creating a seamless, efficient management process. This innovation, detailed in a recent study published in *Engineering Reports* (translated from Chinese), could significantly impact the energy sector by optimizing building performance and reducing operational costs.
Traditional facility management often grapples with fragmented data, manual inefficiencies, and a disconnect between different phases of a building’s lifecycle. These challenges hinder data traceability and overall management efficiency. Guo and his team aimed to address these issues by creating a system that embeds lightweight BIM technology into a comprehensive management framework. “Our goal was to develop a system that not only streamlines data management but also enhances the decision-making process throughout a building’s lifecycle,” Guo explained.
The system, built using the Spring+SpringMVC+MyBatis (SSM) framework, integrates lightweight BIM models processed through the BIMface engine. This allows for real-time data interaction and model embedding, making it easier to manage and analyze building data. The platform includes six core functional modules designed to cover the full lifecycle of building facilities, from planning and design to operation and maintenance.
One of the most compelling aspects of this system is its ability to create a traceable data chain. By linking design parameters, construction records, and operational data, the system ensures that all relevant information is accessible and interconnected. This traceability is crucial for predictive analytics, which can enhance the utilization efficiency of building infrastructure. “By integrating sensor data with lightweight BIM models, we can monitor equipment operations in real-time and track facility service lifespans from design to decommissioning,” Guo noted.
For the energy sector, the implications are substantial. Efficient facility management can lead to significant energy savings and reduced operational costs. The system’s predictive analytics capabilities can help identify potential issues before they become critical, preventing costly downtime and maintenance. Additionally, the integration of design and operational data can optimize building performance, making facilities more energy-efficient and sustainable.
The research published in *Engineering Reports* (translated from Chinese) highlights the potential of BIM-based systems to transform facility management. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the adoption of such technologies could become a standard practice, shaping the future of building operations and maintenance. Guo’s work is a testament to the power of innovation in addressing longstanding challenges and paving the way for more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions.