BIM-Based Methodology for the Management of Public Heritage. CASE Study: Algeciras Market Hall

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is modifying the workflow of the construction field, not only in design and construction stages but also for the management of the facilities. Most advances in academics and industry have focussed on the use of BIM for building. However, the possibilities of the use of three-dimensional information models for the construction and management of public works and civil engineering infrastructure projects (known as CIM) are still a matter of concern, being complex though offering a wider number of possibilities when compared with regular building industry. Moreover, the construction process in comparison with its lifespan represent only a small part of the investments for the use of public works. With this background, the possibilities based on BIM for the maintenance and rehabilitation of public heritage (HCIM) can greatly improve traditional management capabilities. Making best use of BIM and digitalisation for the management of public heritage (HCIM) requires creating tools for documentation, registering and data management to permit the adequate information transfer between the actors involved. Such actors may be experts or not and hold or not skills to use BIM tools. This study proposes the creation of a database to support the regular inspection during the lifespan of the infrastructure and connect it with the three-dimensional information model, serving the latter as an information repository of the whole life of the infrastructure. Such data include damage and causes as well as a description of the pathology and this information is referred to each element, showing all the historic measures taken. In addition, quantification and quotation of the repairs needed can be obtained. Lastly, the study has applied this methodology in Algeciras Market Hall, the notorious rationalist building designed by the engineer Eduardo Torroja and built in 1935. The results shown in this study can be of great interest for both researchers and practice, with an adaptation and innovation of the BIM and HCIM possibilities.