Blog post image_Cooperation_LINEAR_and_DBD
Original graphic: © ZUBI CREATIONS – stock.adobe.com

Precise mapping as the key to efficiency
The common goal of LINEAR and DBD is to achieve greater efficiency gains for users by enabling a smooth workflow during the transition from design to tendering.

The core idea here is that the "project knowledge" designed with LINEAR does not have to be redefined in Revit for the tendering process. The key to this is precise mapping, in which the classification and attribution of LINEAR components is accurately transferred to the "language space" of DBD.

This is precisely where LINEAR and DBD have found a joint solution: meticulous editorial work has resulted in the development of mappings to seamlessly transfer LINEAR components to DBD BIM components. Currently, 465 LINEAR component classifications are already automatically recognized. In addition, countless mappings of parameters, especially dimensions, significantly speed up the work.

The result of this cooperation is available to all users of the DBD-BIM plug-in for Revit at no additional cost.

How LINEAR and DBD work together technically
The precise functionality is based on the intelligent linking of the DBD-BIM and LINEAR systems. DBD-BIM is characterized by its component-oriented configuration of elements and cost elements, which is fully compatible with STLB-Bau. The basic idea behind this is that a BIM component is described alphanumerically using characteristics and specifications. The corresponding construction services and construction costs are then automatically calculated from this detailed description.

LINEAR provides a structured and comprehensive data foundation with its MepClasses classification system. This system distinguishes components into three precise hierarchical levels: domain, function, and class. A clear example of this is the classification "AirHandling.Controller.VolumeFlowController." This component-specific parameter is stored in the Revit model as the characteristic "LIN_CLASSFICATION_LINEAR" and can optionally be specified in more detail by a subtype in the parameter "LIN_AN_ELEMENT_NAME."

Intelligent mapping for error-free transfer
Mapping is at the heart of integration. DBD-BIM is designed to transform the component-oriented description of building elements into individual, performance-oriented positions. The DBD-BIM plug-in already offers comprehensive mapping of Revit standard content to DBD-BIM. This functionality has now been specifically extended to LINEAR's MepClasses classification system.

The overarching goal is to find the exact right STLB-Bau partial service group for each LINEAR classification for the preparation of the tender. This required intensive editorial work to seamlessly link the two "languages" of the systems. The effort was worth it, as users currently benefit from over 460 predefined classification assignments.

Simple workflow for secure tenders
The result of this technical synergy is an efficient and transparent workflow that makes everyday work easier for users:

  1. Select component: The user simply clicks on the component in the Revit model.
  2. Automatic recognition: The integrated mapping recognizes the LINEAR classification and automatically selects the appropriate DBD-BIM component.
  3. Detailed configuration: The component can then be precisely configured for the tender.
  4. Export and further processing: The finished data is exported and can be seamlessly processed further in AVA software solutions.

Dr. Schiller & Partner GmbH - Dynamic Construction Data (DBD) supports tendering processes with up-to-date, regionally differentiated construction cost data and BIM workflows that are integrated into AVA software. The VOB-compliant tendering process with STLB-Bau, developed in collaboration with DIN and GAEB, ensures that tenders are complete, unambiguous, manufacturer-neutral, technically up-to-date, correct, and specific to the property. The DBD-BIM plug-in for Revit enables direct, component-oriented sampling with DBD-BIM, whereby the configuration approach allows for flexible specification.

Further information is available on the company website. 


  • Revit
  • Heating
  • Cooling
  • Ventilation
  • Potable Water
  • Waste Water
  • Gas
  • Electric


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