Abstract
Abstract. With the increased exposure to tourists, historical monuments are at an ever-growing risk of disappearing. Building Information Modelling (BIM) offers a process of digitally documenting of all the features that are made or incorporated into the building over its life-span, thus affords unique opportunities for information preservation. BIM of historical buildings are called Historical Building Information Models (HBIM). This involves documenting a building in detail throughout its history. Geomatics professionals have the potential to play a major role in this area as they are often the first professionals involved on construction development sites for many Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) projects. In this work, we discuss how to establish an architectural database of a heritage site, digitally reconstruct, preserve and then interact with it through an immersive environment that leverages BIM for exploring historic buildings. The reconstructed heritage site under investigation was constructed in the early 15th century. In our proposed approach, the site selection was based on many factors such as architectural value, size, and accessibility. The 3D model is extracted from the original collected and integrated data (Image-based, range-based, CAD modelling, and land survey methods), after which the elements of the 3D objects are identified by creating a database using the BIM software platform (Autodesk Revit). The use of modern and widely accessible game engine technology (Unity3D) is explored, allowing the user to fully embed and interact with the scene using handheld devices. The details of implementing an integrated pipeline between HBIM, GIS and augmented and virtual reality (AVR) tools and the findings of the work are presented.
Highlights
IntroductionStructures and monuments play a major role in the collective memory of a society
Cultural and historical heritages form an integral part of the national identity
Oculus Rift or HoloLens glasses are considered for improved immersive visualization (Fig. 10)
Summary
Structures and monuments play a major role in the collective memory of a society. Such sites act as a bridge between the present and the past, and offer attractive landmarks to the city, while attracting foreign tourists, which, in turn, can help boost local economies. There is an increasing need for proper documentation and preservation of heritage sites and monuments using modern technologies. Sufficient documentation helps to monitor the unavoidable degradation of sites due to natural disasters, negligence or traumatic events, such as war. Together, this helps build better maintenance and more effective management systems and tools for heritage sites. With the influx of tourists, it is necessary to provide proper guidance information and increased context awareness
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
