The buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD)56 is a language-independent information system based on ISO 12006-357, in which the existing terms in the construction and real estate sector are collected in different dictionaries and related to each other. Each content stored on the platform is given a unique alphanumeric identification (code or UID) and an Internet link as a Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), thus forming the structure for object-oriented information exchange.
The bSDD serves as a common library of attributes, units, normatively defined classes and their permissible relationships, which can be assigned to objects. The library is constantly being expanded and consolidated and is to be translated into various national languages. This will create an information model with logical relations as the basis for a common understanding between human-readable information and processable data in algorithms (ontology). It provides a standardized workflow to ensure data quality, information consistency and interoperability. In this way, information from different sources can be assigned to each object in a BIM model and then processed if it has been provided on the basis of the common bSDD.
Various classification systems and exchange formats are already included in the bSDD. It already simplifies and coordinates at national and international level. Standards provide the necessary descriptions of technical properties on the basis of a broad and recognized consensus. As each property can be measured according to different standards, the unambiguous determination always takes place in connection with the respective test standard, which is supplied by the manufacturers together with the performance data of the products (values).
The bSDD enables a standardized workflow based on the use of existing properties. In the case of duplicates, it is important that they are provided with the same machine-readable code. Institutions such as industry associations or national standardization organizations can create their own dictionaries based on standards, publish them in bSDD and link them to existing dictionaries. Such an embedded classification allows the user to switch from one classification to another without having to change existing national data standards for construction and real estate.
Advantages:
- Users can access these structures in order to supply or request data in machine-readable form on the basis of this common basis of understanding.
- Manufacturers can create a template for a digital product passport on this basis.
- Planners can create an IDS for the data that will be required for the evaluation of the building model.
- Programmers can find the codes of the properties that form the variables required for the calculation in their algorithms.
- Users can easily switch between different classification systems without having to re-link everything.
- BIM modelers use the bSDD for easy and efficient access to all kinds of standards to enrich their models.
- BIM managers use the bSDD to refer to Information Delivery Specifications (IDS) and check BIM data for validity.
- Content creators benefit from a single entry point to various BIM tools and platforms.
Examples:
- Digital provision and processing of EPD, thanks to the bSDD dictionary “LCA Indicators and Modules”, which was initiated by the Product Domain of buildingSMART international and is now being further promoted by the Sustainability Strategic Group.
- Translation of harmonized construction product standards of the wood industry as properties in the bSDD in the “Industry Dictionary for Products in Wood”.
56 buildingSMART International: buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD)
57 ISO 12006-3:2022 – Building construction – Organization of information about construction works – Part 3: Framework for object-oriented information
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