Abstract:

Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) a new concept that integrates laser-image survey techniques and Building Information Modelling (BIM), is used for visualisation and for analysis of historic buildings. HBIM consists of a processing pipeline integrating survey data and historic data to create a library of parametric architectural objects, which are plotted onto a geometric framework based on laser /image surveys to create virtual models of historic structures. The HBIM can automatically create cut sections, details and schedules in addition to orthographic projections and 3D models (wire frame or textured) of structures. The HBIM concept has also been applied to virtual learning environments enabling construction and surveying students to study and model Europe’s architectural heritage remotely. This paper presents a case study whereby construction students use HBIM to create a virtual model of the leaning tower of Pisa combining onsite surveys and historic data with WEB based remote survey data. The different methodologies, which culminated in the Historic Building Information Model, are presented and evaluated ranging from software platforms used to onsite survey techniques. The initial geometry to build the virtual model was based on laser-scan, CAD and image survey data collected virtually using CyArk, 3D High Definition Documentation (HDD), which is an Internet cultural heritage database. Ground truths were established as part of an onsite building survey using a theodolite to record angles in both the horizontal and the vertical plane and a laser distometer to record distances. Finally, the students used the HBIM process to create a virtual model of the leaning tower of Pisa based on the geometric framework built from CyARK High Definition Documentation and the onsite survey. In conclusion, the testing of the new concept of HBIM is evaluated through examining the students experience in using both the process and the software in creating the Historic Building Information Model (HBIM) of the leaning tower of Pisa.

Keywords:

innovation, technology, research projects.