Enhancing BIM-BEM integration: solutions for efficient data exchange and energy performance assessment

This paper explores the efficiency of exporting data from Building Information Modeling (BIM) to Building Energy Modeling (BEM) and proposes solutions to encountered problems. The study considers both detached and attached buildings, analyzing the impacts of resolution parameters, and evaluating energy performance based on BIM model. A case-study approach is employed using a residential apartment building, with data exported from Autodesk Revit and imported into DesignBuilder. The results demonstrate the significance of adjusting resolution parameters (the primary parameters that influence the energy analytical model's accuracy and processing time) for efficient data export. Exploring different values leads to improvements in resolving unclosed spaces and enhancing the geometrical model of building elements. Challenges persist in allocating material finishes to walls. By improving and integrating energy performance evaluation through enhanced accuracy and efficiency of data exchange, the findings have significant impacts on stakeholders involved in building design, construction, and operation. Additionally, this process can optimize energy consumption in buildings. Further research is needed to address remaining challenges and improve BIM to BEM systems compatibility including the development of smart mechanisms for energy model creation and resolution parameters refinement. Case studies on different building types and long-term performance monitoring are recommended. This research contributes to the efficiency of exporting data from BIM to BEM interfaces, offering insights for practitioners and guiding future research in BIM-BEM tools integration.