Information Modelling Framework

The Asset Information Modelling Framework (IMF) describes an approach that allows to create a formal description of an asset using common industry Reference Data Libraries (RDL) and standards. RDLs contain definitions of objects that can be referenced and re-used. An asset information model will contain information in a format which is readable to humans as well as to computers.

An IMF Type is a design pattern in form of a blueprint of allowed blocks and terminals with attributes. A block is a basic building block, representing something of interest to a subject matter expert by provision of boundary around it. A terminal specifies channel(s) of communication for a block. The characteristics of a block is specified by attributes and terminals attached to the block.

IMF Types are used during modelling of assets and the appropriate IMF Type is selected from the IMF Type library. In such an instantiation process, values are filled in. In addition, different types of relations can be added to the description. If the needed IMF Type is not available, new ones can be proposed through change requests.

The motivation of IMF Types lies in enabling subject matter experts to model any entity without having to explicitly understand ontology details using reusable IMF Types, but still be able to create an IDO-based asset model. IMF Types facilitates reuse, avoid duplication of work and conformity of associated attributes and class names and hence also easy integration.