Developing a framework to support data exchange from heterogeneous data sources via industry foundation classes (IFC) and web services

The nature and complexity of projects in the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industry makes the industry very fragmented. This is because these complexities necessitate the use of specialized firms to perform the mechanical, electrical, structural steel, networking and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning work needed to complete projects. Although specialization in general is a good concept, it comes with a price. The downside of this multiparty concept is the problem of coordination, data and information sharing among the various parties. Standards and models have been developed to minimize the adverse effects of fragmentation. One such model is the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) developed by the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI). Unfortunately most AEC application software packages do not comply with these standards and models. This study reports on the research and development of a system to translate non-IFC compliant AEC applications into IFC and then share the data in real time with other parties over the Internet with the use of web services.