68 / 2023-03-31 17:42:38

Digitalisation of Existing Buildings with Underground Basements that Aim to Focus on Net Zero

BIM, Laser Scanning, Digital Twins

Digitalisation in terms of Architecture and Civil Engineering is well known as BIM (Building Information Modelling). BIM refers to a design method for assembling (modelling) buildings like models in 3D Virtual space in computers. BIM models include information on architectural components such as roofs and windows, as well as product profiles and Operation and maintenance information. However, the creation of as built BIM model for existing buildings is still in its infancy. There are insufficient case studies of existing or older buildings created from existing floor plans, sections and elevations, and there is communication error within the floor plans. In addition, the O&M manuals (Operation and Maintenance) often provide complicated and overwhelming information. This paper aims to understand the importance of recording information for existing or new buildings to further improve the lifecycle of buildings. This project is a collaboration between the school of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering and the Facilities Management (FM) department of Loughborough University. This collaboration has allowed a better understanding of recording/understanding information of existing buildings located across Loughborough University campus. Particular attention has been paid to Basements, Plantrooms, and roofs where access if often difficult. Working with experts from FM provided easy understanding of the Mechanical systems, electrical systems, and plumbing systems enabling the creation of a detailed BIM Model. This collaboration led to a realisation of information error within the O&M manuals and architectural plans, specifically located in the basement where the main supply of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are located. The methods to solve the issues of misinformation of the underground facility used a process of trial and error through various surveys of the basement through photogrammetry, laser scanning taping and frequent underground site visits to get a clear idea on the systems for the creation of an accurate and detailed 3D Model. The BIM Model consist of photogrammetry and laser scanning data as well as BMS data from external and internal surveys to provide information of the buildings performance. The future aim of the project is for the existing buildings across Loughborough Campus to be digitised and the digitisation of these infrastructures will be utilised to facilitate the achievement of the goal of making the campus Net Zero by 2050.