Building information modelling (BIM) - Data templates for construction objects used in the life cycle of built assets - Concepts and principles (ISO 23387:2020); German version EN ISO 23387:2020
1Key Takeaways
This document lays down the foundations and structure for data templates for construction objects. It supports digital processes by using machine-readable formats based on a standardized data structure for exchanging information about any type of construction object, such as product, system, assembly, room, building, e…
2Expert Interpretation
DIN EN ISO 23387:2020-12 defines standardized data templates for building information modeling (BIM) for describing building objects throughout their entire life cycle. The standard establishes concepts and principles for machine-readable data structures, enables interoperable data exchange, and supports digital processes in planning, construction, and operation.
Introduction to DIN EN ISO 23387:2020-12
DIN EN ISO 23387:2020-12 represents a milestone in the standardization of building information modeling (BIM). This international standard defines data templates for building objects that are used throughout the entire life cycle of building assets. The standard was published in December 2020 by the German Institute for Standardization (DIN) and is based on the international standard ISO 23387:2020.
Normative framework and scope
The standard applies to data templates for building objects of all types, including products, systems, assemblies, rooms, and buildings. The scope of application extends across all lifecycle phases: initial design, commissioning, design, construction, operation, and decommissioning.
| Lifecycle Phase | Scope of Application | Data Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Planning & Design | Concept Development | Generic Feature Definitions |
| Execution & Construction | Product Specification | Specific Performance Characteristics |
| Operation & Maintenance | Asset Management | Maintenance and Inspection Data |
| Demolition & Recycling | Sustainability Aspects | Material Composition |
Basic Terms and Definitions
This standard defines key terms of the BIM domain with a particular focus on data management and information exchange:
Core Concepts of Data Template Creation
Data Template (3.3): A data structure for describing the characteristics of construction objects. Data templates enable a consistent exchange of information between different stakeholders and software systems.
Construction Object (3.4): An object of interest in the context of a construction process. This includes both physical objects (walls, ceilings) and functional units (rooms, systems).
Feature (3.10): An inherent or acquired property of a data element. Characteristics can be generic (length, mass) or specific (according to specific standards).
Technical Implementation and Data Structure
The standard specifies a UML-based data structure based on ISO 12006-3:2007. The main components include:
UML-based Data Template Structure
The UML structure described in Section 4 defines objects, collections, and relationships as the basic units of the data model. The multiplicities in the UML diagram determine the permissible cardinality values.
| ISO 23387 Term | ISO 12006-3 Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Data Template | xtdBag | Container for Feature Definitions |
| Building Object | xtdSubject | Described Object |
| Feature Group | xtdNest | Organization of Features |
| Feature | xtdProperty | Single property |
Linking to Industry Foundation Classes (IFC)
Section 5 describes in detail the linking mechanisms between data templates and IFC classes according to ISO 16739-1:2018. This integration enables:
- Seamless data exchange between BIM software systems
- Consistent semantics across different platforms
- Automated data review and validation
The linking is achieved via the xtdRelAssociates relationship, which connects IFC entities with corresponding data template concepts.
Classification integration and interoperability
The standard addresses the challenges of classification interoperability in Section 6. By linking data templates with existing classification systems:
- International information exchange is enabled
- Existing classifications (e.g. DIN, Uniclass, OmniClass) are integrated
- Domain-specific terminology is taken into account
The mechanism uses xtdRelClassifies to link classification levels with data template objects.
EXPRESS specification and formal modeling
Chapter 7 contains the formal EXPRESS specification of the data model. This machine-readable specification ensures:
- Precise definition of the data syntax
- Automated validation options
- Consistent implementation across platforms
The specification extends the EXPRESS-G notation from ISO 12006-3:2007 with additional relationship types for advanced modeling requirements.
Practical implementation recommendations
Step-by-step introduction
For a successful implementation of DIN EN ISO 23387, the following steps are recommended:
- Needs analysis: Identification of the relevant building objects and information requirements
- Template creation: Development of domain-specific data templates based on the standard structure
- Integration: Connection to existing BIM environments and Classification Systems
- Validation: Checking Data Consistency and Interoperability
Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution Approach | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Terminological Inconsistencies | Use of Standardized Term Definitions | Section 3 |
| Data Redundancy | Reuse of Feature Definitions | Section 4 |
| Interoperability Issues | IFC Integration via xtdRelAssociates | Section 5 |
Future Perspectives and Development Trends
DIN EN ISO 23387 forms the basis for future developments in the BIM field. Expected further developments include:
- Extension to include domain-specific feature libraries
- Integration of artificial intelligence for automatic data extraction
- Connection to IoT systems for real-time data updates
- Improved Semantic Web technologies for advanced search functions
The standard positions Germany and Europe in the international competition for digital construction standards and promotes the digital transformation of the construction industry.