Meta-modeling Theory Research Articles

BG-LoA: A Benchmarking Framework for BIM/GIS Data Integration Based on Meta-Modelling Theory

Abstract. There are various studies on the integration of building information modelling (BIM) and geographic information system (GIS) that convert BIM data into GIS data. These studies used different technologies, data standards, data models, and data formats such as RDF (Resource Description Framework), graph, CityGML, and Shapefile to address the data incompatibility problem between BIM and GIS. This makes it difficult to compare these studies for the purpose of assessing research innovation, and sometimes, improper comparisons were carried out between studies. To solve this problem, this study adopted the metamodeling theory used in model-driven software engineering (MDSE) and extended its 4-layer framework of level of abstraction. The new benchmarking framework, referred to as level of abstraction for BIM/GIS data integration (BG-LoA), has 5 levels, including meta metamodel (M3), metamodel (M2), model (M1), reality (data) (M0), and reality (real world) (M00). The common types of IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) conversion were analysed using the new framework, including IFC-to-CityGML, IFC-to-CityJSON, IFC-to-Shapefile, IFC-to-GML, IFC-to-3DTiles, IFC-to-RDF, IFC-to-IfcGraph, and IFC-to-UML. The result shows that the new framework can show the difference between those conversion types, which makes it easier for future studies to benchmark their work and assess level of contribution to the body of knowledge.

Unified modeling of a tractor performance prototype based on ontology

A tractor is a type of agricultural machinery with complex structure and harsh operating conditions. It is evolving toward a large-scale, multifunctional, and intelligent system. Digital prototype technology is an effective approach for experts in multidisciplinary fields to collaborate in the development of new tractor products. Tractor performance prototype design is an important part of realizing digital tractor design. In the modeling process, the performance prototype models designed by experts have a problem with inconsistent expressions, making tractor digital design difficult to implement. This study aims to investigate the unified modeling of a tractor performance prototype. The design process of the tractor performance prototype was analyzed according to the characteristics of new tractor product development. Combined with the ontology modeling method, the construction process of the tractor performance prototype ontology was designed. Based on ontology metamodel theory, a multidisciplinary unified modeling method for a tractor performance prototype is proposed, and an ontology metamodel architecture was constructed. Using a wheeled tractor as an example, a performance prototype ontology was designed. Subsequently, an ontology model was created and verified in Protégé. The results indicate that the model can be used for the digital design of new tractor product development. An ontology model database was established, which realized the sharing and management of ontology model data, and the effectiveness of the method was verified.

Conversion between solid and beam element solutions of finite element method based on meta-modeling theory: development and application to a ramp tunnel structure

In this study, a new method for conversion of solid finite element solution to beam finite element solution is developed based on the meta-modeling theory which constructs a model consistent with continuum mechanics. The proposed method is rigorous and efficient compared to a typical conversion method which merely computes surface integration of solid element nodal stresses to obtain cross-sectional forces. The meta-modeling theory ensures the rigorousness of proposed method by defining a proper distance between beam element and solid element solutions in a function space of continuum mechanics. Results of numerical verification test that is conducted with a simple cantilever beam are used to find the proper distance function for this conversion. Time history analysis of the main tunnel structure of a real ramp tunnel is considered as a numerical example for the proposed conversion method. It is shown that cross-sectional forces are readily computed for solid element solution of the main tunnel structure when it is converted to a beam element solution using the proposed method. Further, envelopes of resultant forces which are of primary importance for the purpose of design, are developed for a given ground motion at the end.

Design and Optimization on Connecting Rod Parts of Engineering Clamp Hanger Based on Metamodel

This paper investigates the connecting rod design and optimization of the engineering clamp hanger based on metamodel. The structure of the clamp hanger and the working load status of the connecting rod are firstly analyzed. Then the metamodel theory is applied to the connecting rod design and optimization: The metamodel of the connecting rod is set up in Solid Edge, and the design factors are signed as function-based parameters, with their geometrical relation changeless. The corresponding parameter value can be adopted by case-based inference means so that the required structure model of the connecting rod can be obtained. Finally, keeping the fine strength security and stability, the structure of the connecting rod is optimized. The presented research in this paper offers a new reference and thought for the hanger design and improvement.

A Formal EXPRESS-to-OWL Mapping Algorithm

Network-based collaborative product development has become a trend in manufacturing industry, which depends on two key information technology: the Semantic Web and the standard for the exchange of product model data (STEP). EXPRESS is the STEP product data modeling language, and OWL is the standard ontology representing language used in the Semantic Web. Only when the EXPRESS models are converted to OWL models, product information can be exchanged at the Web. The ontology meta-modeling theory was employed to analysis the ontology definition metamodel of EXPRESS and OWL, in order to build up the mapping relationship between them. A formal EXPRESS-to-OWL mapping algorithm is then proposed, represented by abstract syntax.