The study of chaos theory and information theory in enhancing data standard towards smart infrastructure

An, Yi 2023. The study of chaos theory and information theory in enhancing data standard towards smart infrastructure. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

Preview	PDF - Accepted Post-Print Version Download (4MB) | Preview
	PDF (Cardiff University Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Form) - Supplemental Material Restricted to Repository staff only Download (964kB)

Abstract

This dissertation explores the complex dynamics underlying Building Information Modeling (BIM) data standard development, with the aim of enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) industry. The research integrates chaos theory and information theory to elucidate hidden patterns and principles governing BIM standards. This thesis establishes the methodological framework, combining theoretical research and design science approaches. Information theory provides a quantitative lens to analyze BIM information flows, while chaos theory recognizes inherent complexity and unpredictability. Philosophically, the research embraces interdisciplinarity and pragmatism. Through sandpile simulations, the dynamics of BIM standard development are modeled computationally. Innovative mapping techniques connect simulation patterns to actual BIM standards topologies, represented as tree structures. Analyses reveal “similarity cross-scalability,” indicative of chaos and self-organized criticality. This suggests BIM standards evolve akin to a chaotic system, with sensitivity to initial conditions. Mathematical techniques rigorously prove chaotic properties in BIM standard development. Time series data from simulations enable phase space reconstruction. Determining optimal time delay and dimensionality allows creating an accurate phase space capturing system dynamic. Calculation of a positive Lyapunov exponent provides definitive evidence of chaos. New methodologies emerge from the chaos-driven perspective. Information theory and sandpile principles generate novel Model View Definitions (MVDs) for tunnel linings, embracing dynamism while reducing ambiguity. Comparative analysis shows improved consistency over conventional standards. System attractors within reconstructed phase space form the basis for a chaos-informed performance indicator for BIM models, using distance to attractors as a stability metric. In summary, this pioneering research makes significant contributions: It proves, mathematically and empirically, the presence of chaos in BIM standard development related to information flows. Chaos theory and information theory are shown to offer valuable perspectives for enhancing BIM standards. Innovative techniques are proposed for generating adaptable, robust MVDs and evaluating BIM model stability. Philosophy of interdisciplinarity and pragmatism is embraced to integrate diverse concepts. Computational modeling and mapping reveal new insights into complex BIM standard dynamics. The implications are profound. Identifying chaos enables harnessing advanced techniques from disparate disciplines to optimize BIM processes. The proposed methodologies demonstrate enhanced efficiency, consistency, and performance. This research lays the foundations to utilize chaos theory for next-generation innovations in the AECO industry. The transformative potential is to fundamentally evolve BIM standards to be highly adaptive and responsive to the industry’s dynamic needs.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Engineering
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1) Chaos 2) Information Entropy 3) Attractor 4) Data Structure 5) Building Information Modelling 6) Measure
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	28 June 2024
Last Modified:	28 Jun 2024 09:41
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/170038

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item