Periodic Reporting for period 1 - Quad2BIM (A cooperative approach which brings completeness and inclusiveness to the scan-to-BIM modeling process within the historical buildings life cycle.)
Période du rapport: 2020-09-01 au 2023-08-31
The application of BIM for existing architecture faced significant challenges. This was especially critical for preserving the intricacies of historical buildings, which have unique complexities due to their evolutionary nature over centuries.
The project also sought to bridge the gap between BIM's use in new constructions and its adaptation for existing buildings. Efficient application of BIM in the construction industry (AEC industry 4.0) was essential for achieving cost savings, heightened productivity, improved operational efficiency, enhanced quality, and superior environmental performance.
Quad2BIM protocol incorporated archival data, represented building construction phases, and captured intricate decorations. It promoted Smart Heritage, turning BIM in a functional instrument of knowledge, design and management for historical architecture.
Quad2BIM elevated the level of collaboration and maturity for BIM within the domain of heritage architecture.
Additionally, the project embraced cutting-edge technologies and tools, positioning its results at the forefront of technological advancements in the field.
The research played a significant role in advancing contemporary knowledge while exploring cutting-edge technologies in the preservation and restoration fields for the analysis of diverse examples.
A team of master's and PhD students worked alongside Graziella Del Duca, the leader of the Quad2BIM project, in executing project tasks. They engaged in daily collaboration with the project leader for on-site activities and data processing.
Quad2BIM advanced its work through a series of significant case studies, namely:
- "Igreja da Pena" (1705), a Baroque church nestled in the heart of Lisbon, renowned for its captivating trompe-l'œil painted ceiling.
- Capela dos Jerónimos (1514), located in Lisbon's Restelo district. This chapel, crafted in the Manueline style, bore a striking resemblance to a miniature replica of the Jerónimos monastery in Belém.
- The N1 Building of the Lisbon Faculty of Architecture (1979), envisioned by Augusto Artur Silva Pereira Brandão, was yet another focal point of our project.
- The Mafra National Palace (1717), an awe-inspiring Baroque and neoclassical Italianate palace-monastery, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as a testament to the grandeur and influence of the Portuguese kingdom in the 18th century.
Additionally, the researcher got involved into a laser scanner survey, resulting in the production of orthophotos for the historic Titan crane in the port of Leixões.
She conducted meticulous investigations to validate the accuracy of the cutting-edge SLAM technology for mobile laser scanning. Also, she initiated a new study on BIM's application at a city-wide scale, utilizing 3D BIM maps.
Thanks to Quad2BIM, two innovative courses were established and overseen by the researcher at FAUL: one focused on "scan-to-BIM" for master's students and another on "advanced Scan-to-BIM" for PhD students.
Dissemination efforts included various activities, with results being presented and published during conferences to validate and discuss the effectiveness of the methods employed.
Quad2BIM transcended conventional practices, yielding substantial socio-economic benefits:
Digital Transition Support: The project provided invaluable insights into digital survey methodologies, instruments, and techniques, enhancing the application of BIM in preserving existing heritage.
At the academic levels, Quad2BIM made significant contributions:
- Academic advancement: Introducing City Information Modeling (CIM) Systems and 3D city maps in BIM, along with Dynamo routines, Quad2BIM seamlessly integrated BIM with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), expanding academic horizons.
- Dissemination of the “quadratura” painting style: Quad2BIM's innovative exploration of BIM's application in historic buildings brought attention to the lesser-known "quadratura" style in Portugal.
At the SME and student levels, Quad2BIM provided essential tools for growth and efficiency:
- Efficient Survey BIM Model Creation: The project streamlined the creation of Survey BIM Models, reducing the need for extensive rework in subsequent project stages.
- Empowering SMEs and Students: Quad2BIM furnished examples, guidelines, and templates to facilitate the scan-to-BIM process, benefiting SMEs and students in their professional development.
- Innovative (Semi-)Automated Techniques: Utilizing Visual Programming Language (VPL) - Dynamo scripts, Quad2BIM applied innovative techniques for creating intricate elements within BIM models of existing buildings, enhancing efficiency and precision.
- Reference Complex BIM Models: Quad2BIM's models of heritage buildings served as benchmarks for other BIM technicians, refining their practices.
- On-Site Risk Management Plan: The project provided a best practice guide for on-site activities, a crucial resource for researchers and students, ensuring safe and healthy project execution.
The impact of Quad2BIM extended beyond technical achievements:
- Boosting Productivity Post-Pandemic: In response to the pandemic, Quad2BIM embraced digital transformation, aligning with the construction sector's increased productivity drive.
- EU Mandate for BIM Procurements: Quad2BIM's contributions were in sync with the European Commission's agenda, advocating for the mandatory use of BIM in all public procurements across the EU.
- Improved Data Value/Decreased Data Volume: Quad2BIM optimized and streamlined the scan-to-BIM process, enhancing data efficiency.
- Elevating Knowledge and Expertise: The project empowered professionals, academics, and students with advanced techniques and methodologies in the scan-to-BIM process.
- Preserving Cultural Heritage: By refining the application of BIM in heritage conservation, Quad2BIM safeguarded cultural treasures, fostering a sense of shared heritage and identity.
In summary, Quad2BIM's pioneering efforts improved architectural preservation, construction practices, and digital integration, ushering in an era of efficiency, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination.