Blockchain technology applications in maintaining heritage buildings

Abstract

Preservation of cultural heritage in the face of human and natural disasters, as well as improper maintenance practices, is a crucial endeavor that must be undertaken throughout the lifespan of heritage buildings. In order to maximize the value derived from these assets and strike a harmonious balance between accurate documentation and performance optimization, asset management strategies have been employed. In recent years, the advent of innovative methodologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and laser scanning has opened new possibilities for their application in various contexts. However, successful implementation of these methodologies faces a range of challenges, including limited knowledge, inexperienced teams, and reluctance to embrace change on the part of administrators. To address these obstacles and enhance asset management practices, the integration of BIM, Chatbot, and Blockchain methodology has emerged as a viable solution. This methodology not only facilitates the improvement of data security and user data capture but also streamlines the process of updating BIM models. In this research, we propose a data-driven Chatbot framework based on Blockchain, specifically designed to manage maintenance activities through the utilization of BIM. The proposed framework serves as a valuable tool for government authorities and asset managers seeking to adopt BIM for the preservation of heritage buildings. Comprising three key components – the BIM model, the Blockchain model, and the Chatbot model – the framework offers comprehensive support. The BIM model encompasses all relevant information pertaining to the management of the heritage building, while the Chatbot model replicates human interaction through text-based communication. Users can access up-to-date BIM data by posing predefined questions to the Chatbot. On the other hand, the Blockchain model serves as a secure and immutable record-keeping system, validating and verifying user updates, thereby fostering trust among stakeholders. This proposed model empowers asset stakeholders to request and update asset information via a trusted and reliable channel. To showcase the capabilities of the framework, we present a real-world case study centered on the Omar Toson Palace in Cairo, Egypt. Through this case study, we demonstrate the effectiveness and potential of our proposed framework in meeting the challenges associated with heritage building preservation.