During the project's implementation, the Covid-19 pandemic underscored the crucial need for remote collaboration. Quad2BIM established a well-structured digital system for data storage and information sharing, along with the use of standardized vocabularies to streamline communication among team members in project management. Through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in the BIM field, the project achieved remarkable milestones.
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.
