Building information modeling (BIM), system dynamics (SD), and agent-based modeling (ABM) : towards an integrated approach

Abstract

Several frameworks are introduced to address occupancy-based building performance. However, the performance predictions obtained using these frameworks deviate from real performance. So, this study's aim is to represent a new framework for the automatic assessment of occupants’ comfort and building indoor performance using BIM and the SD-ABM platform. Initially, an office space in Hong Kong, consisting of 10 occupants, was considered for the BIM model construction. The occupancy, indoor data and required equations are defined using the SD-ABM model. Essential data from the BIM model can be transferred using the Dynamo-Excel platform. Furthermore, a validation study was conducted using a paper-based survey from the occupants and sensor data for environmental data monitoring while error metrics were also calculated. The framework actively predicts occupant presence, comfort level, temperatures, and CO2 concentration in the office space. However, a comprehensive usability and feasibility study is required to assess the efficiency of the framework.