An approach for the extension of openBIM MEP models with metadata focusing on different use cases

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is one of the key technologies in the building and real estate industry and will have a great impact on the value chain of all stakeholders along the building sector. BIM methodology supports the overall building life cycle in which mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) plays a central role. Properties such as the energy consumption and operating costs of a building are fundamentally determined by the quality of MEP planning and implementation. Studies have shown that open data interfaces such as industry foundation classes (IFC) and the interoperability between different software environments are particularly important for MEP planning. Several research studies show that openBIM data models for MEP are not yet fully applicable in real world projects. This paper explores which metadata is needed - and when - for BIM to deliver its benefits in the building life cycle. Furthermore, the use case building energy performance (BEP) simulation is investigated to identify the gap between the current capability to use IFC for MEP planning and BEP simulation, based on a typical hydronic heating system.