The advance of technology has reached even the most traditional sectors, such as architecture and heritage conservation. Specifically, the BIM methodology has emerged as a key tool in the restoration of historic buildings, allowing the challenges of these environments to be addressed with innovative solutions.
In this article, we analyze how BIM is transforming the preservation and restoration of historic areas, highlighting its application in a specific project: the Cathedral of Granada.
BIM in the Conservation of Historical Heritage
The restoration of historic buildings is a delicate process that requires a precise approach. Unlike modern constructions, historic buildings present multiple challenges: structural deterioration, lack of updated plans, and the need to maintain the building’s aesthetic and cultural integrity. This is where BIM comes into play.
BIM in historical contexts allows for the creation of a detailed 3D model of the building, capturing not only its shape but also its materials, structural systems, and architectural features. This digital model is essential for planning interventions without compromising the building’s original structure. Additionally, it allows for the simulation of various solutions, optimizing restoration decisions.
Challenges in the Restoration of Historic Buildings
BIM technology faces specific challenges when applied to historic environments. Older buildings often have complex structures and lack precise information due to the age of their plans, if they exist at all. Natural wear, possible lack of documentation, and alterations over the centuries add complexity to the task.
To overcome these obstacles, a detailed laser scanning process is essential, allowing precise capture of every aspect of the building. This process generates a point cloud that serves as the basis for BIM modeling, ensuring that all details of the building are faithfully represented.
The Cathedral of Granada Project
A prime example of BIM application in the conservation of historical heritage is the project involving the Tower of the Cathedral of Granada. In this case, Fisotec was responsible for carrying out the BIM scanning of the tower as part of a renovation and construction project. This intervention was essential for planning and designing specific scaffolding that would adapt to the structure’s complexities.
The laser scanning allowed for exact measurements of the tower, facilitating the planning by Layher, the company in charge of assembling the scaffolding. Thanks to the BIM model, it was possible to size the scaffolding precisely and adapt it to the specific details of the tower, avoiding any damage to the original structure and ensuring that the intervention was as non-invasive as possible.
In addition to providing accuracy in dimensions and planning, BIM enables seamless collaboration among the various stakeholders in the project. From architects to engineers and restorers, everyone can access the BIM model and contribute their expertise in real-time, improving project efficiency and minimizing errors. In the case of the Cathedral of Granada, this collaboration allowed the Fisotec and Layher teams to design specific solutions for the building’s challenges.
We want you to be part of Fisotec! Stay tuned for more upcoming articles and send us your proposals at hello@fisotecsolutions.com