Ren, Guoqian, Khudhair, Ali  ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5062-7448, Li, Haijiang ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6326-8133, Wen, Xi and Zhu, Xiaofeng
2025.
Leveraging BIM data schema for data interoperability in ports and waterways: A semantic alignment framework for openBIM workflows.
Buildings
15
(12)
, 2007.
10.3390/buildings15122007
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Abstract
The demand for interoperable, lifecycle-oriented data exchange in the port and waterway sector is intensifying amid global digital transformation and infrastructure modernisation. Traditional Building Information Modelling (BIM) practices often fail to capture the domain-specific complexity and multidisciplinary collaboration required in maritime infrastructure. This paper critically evaluates the IFC 4.3 schema as a foundational standard for openBIM-based integration in this sector, offering a semantic alignment framework designed for the planning, design, and operational phases of port projects. Rather than proposing schema extensions, the framework interprets existing IFC constructs to model port-specific assets while supporting environmental and geospatial integration. Two case studies, a master planning project for a shipyard and a design coordination project for a ship lock complex, demonstrate the schema’s capability to facilitate federated modelling, reduce semantic discrepancies, and enable seamless data exchange across disciplines and software platforms. The research delivers actionable implementation strategies for practitioners, identifies technical limitations in current toolchains, and outlines pathways for advancing standardisation efforts. It further contributes to the evolving discourse on digital twins, GIS-BIM convergence, and semantic enrichment in infrastructure modelling. This work provides a scalable, standards-based roadmap to improve interoperability and enhance the digital maturity of port and waterway infrastructure.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Date Type: | Published Online |
| Status: | Published |
| Schools: | Schools > Engineering |
| Publisher: | MDPI |
| Date of First Compliant Deposit: | 6 June 2025 |
| Date of Acceptance: | 28 May 2025 |
| Last Modified: | 11 Jun 2025 11:33 |
| URI: | https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/178835 |
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