The Diagnostics of the Condition and Management of Large-Panel Buildings Using Point Clouds and Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Abstract

Technological developments involving the implementation of modern measuring equipment and the digitalisation of civil engineering can contribute to extending the service life of buildings. Large-panel buildings constitute a large housing stock throughout Europe. This paper presents the possibility of using laser scanning to identify typical assembly defects in large-panel buildings. Based on point cloud data, numerical models were created to assess the impact of improper assembly on the elements’ performance. It was indicated that using scanning to identify and monitor the displacement of structural elements does not relieve experts of the need to perform other tests. Analyses related to the possibility of using Building Information Modeling technology to manage large-panel buildings were also conducted. A parametric model was made, from which a number of possibilities of its use at every stage of the building’s life were presented in an example. It was highlighted that parametric models of large-panel buildings, due to their repeatable geometry, can be copied for use in managing entire neighbourhoods. Limitations associated with implementing BIM technology in practice were also formulated. The analyses and research performed confirm the validity of implementing modern research methods in engineering practice and digitising the documentation of large-panel buildings.