Towards an ontology for holistic building occupant information modelling

Abstract

Occupant behaviour (OB) is a critical factor affecting the building performance from aspects such as energy/comfort management, emergency planning, space management, and safety/security. Several ontologies were previously developed to formalize modelling/exchanging occupant-related information for each of these applications. The present study aims to provide a holistic occupant ontology to support integrated building management solutions. Rather than offering a brand new ontology, we integrate the existing models, and create the linkages required for semantic integration among them. Two main dimensions framing our occupant ontology include: Building function and occupancy information. We mapped the available ontologies (within and outside the domain of OB), to capture existing gaps for semantic integration across multiple use-cases, within each of these dimensions. The gaps were then translated into competency questions, and from there, we developed meta-classes and relations required for the high-level occupant ontology. Upon the completion and deployment, the proposed occupant ontology can result in better information exchange and integration with building simulation models for various use-cases.