A framework for integrating syntax, semantics and pragmatics for computer-aided professional practice: With application of costing in construction industry

Abstract

Producing a bill of quantity is a knowledge-based, dynamic and collaborative process, and evolves with variances and current evidence. However, within the context of information system practice in BIM, knowledge of cost estimation has not been represented, nor has it been integrated into the processes based on BIM. This paper intends to establish an innovative means of taking data from the BIM linked to a project, and using it to create the necessary items for a bill of quantity that will enable cost estimation to be undertaken for the project. Our framework is founded upon the belief that three components are necessary to gain a full awareness of the domain which is being computerised; the information type which is to be assessed for compatibility (syntax), the definition for the pricing domain (semantics), and the precise implementation environment for the standards being taken into account (pragmatics). In order to achieve this, a prototype is created that allows a cost item for the bill of quantity to be spontaneously generated, by means of the semantic web ontology and a forward chain algorithm. Within this paper, 'cost items' signify the elements included in a bill of quantity, including details of their description, quantity and price. As a means of authenticating the process being developed, the authors of this work effectively implemented it in the production of cost items. In addition, the items created were contrasted with those produced by specialists. For this reason, this innovative framework introduces the possibility of a new means of applying semantic web ontology and forward chain algorithm to construction professional practice resulting in automatic cost estimation. These key outcomes demonstrate that, decoupling the professional practice into three key components of syntax, semantics and pragmatics can provide tangible benefits to domain user.

An integrated BIM-based approach for cost estimation in construction projects

“…They concluded that the proposed approach could be used to classify the building components to accelerate cost estimation. Xu et al (2016) introduced a framework based on semantic web ontology for taking data from BIM models and using it for generating the required items for a bill of quantity that enables cost estimation. Abanda et al (2017a, b) developed an ontology-based on new rules of measurement for quantity take-offs and cost estimation in the tendering stage of construction projects.…”

BIM compatibility and its differentiation with interoperability challenges as an innovation factor

“…Elsewhere, Haoues et al [103] suggest that compatibility and interoperability are key measures of system quality models and standards such as ISO 25010. Xu et al [104] create a prototype to collect data from BIM for generation of the item costs for the bill of quantity.…”

Artificial intelligence assisted professional work in BIM: A machine reasoning extension

“…This dream of the development of computer systems requires at its heart that computers understand the workflow of professionals. Information has already been provided on the analysis of professional knowledge [32], and this paper instead concentrates on suggested solutions and authenticating results.…”

“…However, at this point, no research has managed to merge the important aspects in one prototype. Despite many important pieces of research espousing the significance of a semantic underpinning in the domain [33,34], it is recognised that a synopsis is needed setting out all of the different views in relation to a system based on information, which includes compatibility (syntax), a description of pricing analysis (semantics), and precise information about the conditions surrounding the elements being assessed (pragmatics) [35]. Figure 1 illustrates the present system of quantity surveying.…”