A Bridge Information Modeling Framework for Model Interoperability

Bridge information modeling ( BrIM) techniques have been developed to integrate information from architecture, engineering, construction, and operation. The models developed by these different stakeholders, however, are oftentimes not interoperable. To address the challenge, this paper proposes a BrIM framework to ensure consistent data exchange. Designed as the central hub for data exchange, the Python program translates between the BrIM model and Mongo database, a NoSQL ( Not Only SQL) database. The unifying Python framework is demonstrated with the BrIM model of a steel pedestrian bridge located in Atlanta, Georgia. In this case study, the OpenBrIM standard is employed to create the geometry model and the finite element model of the bridge structure with visualization. If change is made in either the OpenBrIM model or the Mongo database, the Python program can automatically synchronize the changes to the others.