B5 - Object Oriented Databases

Objected oriented databases are a type of management system which links information to an object. These objects contain identities, attributes, references, relationships and associations. This type of data base combines features of object-oriented systems with database systems [2]. Revit is an example of a software which uses this type of database. Information can be tied to devices which are modeled within a building [1]. With object oriented databases you are able to create hierarchies with types. An example of this would be Revit Families. Revit families are first categorized by what type of model component they are. Within a family you can also create types of that family. Although all 2x2 light fixtures would use the same family in a project, you would create different types under that family for the various manufactures and lumen packages. The data for each of the types of the fixtures varies greatly, so although they look a like on a plan view the data within each of the family types is different. This will influence the lighting levels produced for lighting calcs, lighting fixture schedules outputs, as well as the circuiting if the wattage is different.

Object oriented databases, are more complex. They not only include information, but graphics and visuals. Continuing with the example of Revit. As you draft and populate objects in the model. The database builds and information is gathered. This is because the objects themselves are tied to the properties and data pertaining to the object. From this you are able to collect the data and create schedules as a way to organize the data.

Sources:

[1] “A Brief History of BIM.” ArchDaily, VELUX, 7 Dec. 2012, www.archdaily.com/302490/a-brief-history-of-bim/.

[2] “Object-Oriented Databases (Version 2010).” ODBMS Industry Watch, www.odbms.org/2010/01/object-oriented-databases-version-2010/.

Responses:

Julie, great description. The diagram you used to explain what a relational database is was extremely helpful. Your example helped me better understand how the information is linked and relationships are formed between the data.