Blockchain for building information modeling in construction industry

Building Information Modeling (BIM) can be considered as a visual database which means a 3D building model equips all data for different disciplines like architecture, structure and Mechanical- Electrical – Plumbing (MEP) design. The data rich model serves multi tasks from cost estimation, project scheduling, energy analyses. However, the data in BIM model cannot be controlled strictly in project phases by stakeholders, therefore the quality of BIM Model and included documents is limited and disorder. Blockchain, the back-end database technology that makes Bitcoin work, is one of the most exciting technologies emerging right now. Beyond the cryptocurrency, it is redefining how we store, update, and move data on networks. It enables a whole new way of writing and deploying applications that has the potential to improve online security and trust. It can even enable the creation of a new type of organization that is devoid of hierarchy and centralized decision-making. This paper shows the development of a blockchain based on Ethereum for BIM applications, which can help to solve model ownership and increase the quality and usefulness of the BIM model.